An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2449

“Grandfather, I see why you sent Uncle Jonathan and Uncle Jensen to talk to the Spanner and Fallon families for information,” Natasha said. “But West Lucozia is so far away.”

She shook her head. “They’ve always kept out of politics. Sending Uncle Jovian there wouldn’t help. He’d probably just be turned away.”

Oakvale and West Lucozia were very different. The struggle for the Oakvale throne didn’t really concern the West Lucozian monarchy. Both had an unspoken agreement to stay out of each other’s issues.

“I understand, but this time is different,” Simon replied. “The royal throne is at risk, and every group will do whatever it takes to get West Lucozia’s support. If the West Lucozian monarchy chooses a side, the balance we’ve kept for years could fall apart. That’s why I need to be prepared for anything.”

It was better if the West Lucozian monarchy stayed out of the fight, but if they decided to get involved, Oakvale would be thrown into chaos. With their large army of cavalry, any action they took could shake things up in the region.

“Grandfather, what if they do choose to interfere in the battle for the throne? What would happen then?” Natasha asked carefully.

“If the West Lucozian monarchy really wants to step in, that’s good for us,” Simon answered. “At least we won’t have to guess. We’ll support whoever they back. That way, we can be sure we’re on the right side.”

The four ancient houses and the eight great families were nothing compared to the West Lucozian monarchy. If the Prince of West Lucozia decided…

to take action? You could put someone in charge who would do what you want.”

Natasha quickly realized what Simon meant. “So, you’re sending Uncle Jovian to find out if the West Lucozian monarchy plans to interfere with our royal family?”

“My biggest worry is if he can even get into the castle. Our family isn’t very influential there,” Simon replied with a sigh.

The Ballard family was one of the four ancient houses in Oakvale, and they were very powerful. They were so respected that even the royal family had to listen to them. However, things were different in West Lucozia. There, not even the royal family could interfere in matters. The power and prestige the Ballard family had in Oakvale meant nothing in West Lucozia. In that land, the Prince’s word was final.

“Mr. Ballard, if you want to visit the West Lucozian monarchy, I can help with that,” Dustin said suddenly.

He usually wouldn’t have spoken up, but he felt he had to help Natasha and her family.

“Oh?” Simon said, raising an eyebrow in surprise. “Do you have connections in the West Lucozian monarchy?”

“Kind of,” Dustin replied. “I can set up a meeting for Mr. Jovian in West Lucozia, which should make things easier for him.”

He didn’t want to reveal his identity to avoid getting involved in political issues or seeking special treatment.

“That sounds great! Having a connection will make everything go much smoother,” Simon said with a smile. “I’ll leave it to you then.”

“Sure! It’s a small favor. I’ll make the call now,” Dustin said with a light smile. He took out his phone and dialed Austin’s number.

When the call connected, an excited voice came through. “Logan! You finally called me.”

“I’ve been feeling miserable these past few days! You need to come back and help me. Without you standing up for me, that old man is driving me crazy!” Austin started pouring out his frustrations. He complained so much that it seemed like he had been through some kind of torture.

“Okay, stop acting like a victim. He’s just been a bit strict with you. It’s all for your own good,” Dustin replied, getting straight to the point. “I’m calling because I need you to take care of something. You can’t mess it up.”

“No problem! Just tell me what to do, and I’ll handle it, no matter what—even if it means facing danger,” Austin said confidently.

“There’s a man named Jovian Ballard, an uncle of sorts from the Ballard family in Oakvale. He’ll be going to West Lucozia soon to handle some matters. Make sure to take care of him,” Dustin instructed.

“Oh! I thought it would be something big, and I got all fired up. Turns out it’s just this?” Austin sounded a bit disappointed. He always thought that anything Dustin asked would be a major task, but this was just to welcome someone, which felt underwhelming.

“Just do what I said. No need for all this chatter,” Dustin said, sounding annoyed.

“Okay, I’ll take care of it. What else can I do? You’re my brother,” Austin replied, resigned.

“Oh, by the way, how’s the old man doing?” Dustin asked suddenly.

“Not great. He may look fine, but he’s been coughing up blood every night. He’s relying on medicine to get by, but I don’t know how much longer he can last,” Austin sighed.

Dustin fell silent. Although he had resented their father, Rufus, in the past, his own experiences had given him a deeper understanding of Rufus’s struggles. Hearing that his father might not have much time left filled him with sadness.

“Take care of him. Don’t let him worry about anything else. That’s all. Call me if anything comes up,” Dustin said after a long pause. Then, he hung up the phone.