An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2453

the council?” Austin asked, scanning the crowd.

A nervous silence fell over the officials. They exchanged glances, unsure of who should step forward. Finally, a timid voice broke the silence.

“It was me, Your Highness,” a young man stammered, stepping forward hesitantly.

Austin raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “And what is this letter about?”

The young man took a deep breath. “It’s about the upcoming festival. The council wants to ensure everything is in order for your arrival.”

Austin nodded slowly, considering the information. “Alright, let’s make sure it’s perfect then. I don’t want any mistakes.”

The young man nodded eagerly, relieved to have Austin’s attention.

As the officials began to discuss the festival plans, Austin felt a mixture of satisfaction and irritation. He appreciated their eagerness, but he also wished they would stop trying to butter him up.

Suddenly, Rufus, one of his more trusted advisors, stepped forward. “Your Highness, perhaps we should focus on the security arrangements as well. You know how chaotic these events can get.”

Austin glanced at Rufus, grateful for his straightforwardness. “Good point. I want a full report on security by the end of the day.”

Rufus nodded, ready to take action.

As the meeting continued, Austin couldn’t shake the feeling that things were about to get more complicated. With every official trying to win his favor, he knew he needed to keep his guard up.

was clear he couldn’t hesitate any longer.

As he stepped inside the castle, Boston felt a mix of relief and confusion. Why had Austin chosen him? It didn’t make sense. He was just a messenger from the Ballard family, not someone important.

Austin led the way through the grand halls, and Boston tried to keep up, his heart racing. The castle was impressive, filled with ornate decorations and the scent of polished wood. It was a far cry from the simple home he knew.

“Why did you bring the letter?” Austin asked suddenly, stopping to face Boston. “What do you think it means for the Ballard family?”

Boston swallowed hard. “I… I think it’s about the new trade agreement. They wanted to make sure it was delivered personally.”

Austin raised an eyebrow. “And you thought you’d just stroll in here without any backup? You’re risking a lot for them.”

Boston felt a wave of anxiety. “I didn’t think it would be a problem,” he admitted. “I just wanted to do my job.”

Austin studied him for a moment, then nodded slowly. “Fair enough. Just remember, this world can be dangerous. Watch your back.”

Boston nodded, feeling a little more at ease. Maybe he would be alright after all. They continued walking, and Boston resolved to stay alert. He had no idea what would happen next, but he was determined to see this through for the Ballard family.

It didn’t seem like a bad situation after all. As long as he could speak with the prince and present his case, Boston felt hopeful. At least he would be able to say he tried.

When Boston entered the castle with Austin, the heavy red gate slammed shut behind them.

Outside, the other officials – Huxley, Percival, and Warrick – stood in shocked silence. After a few moments, they broke into a flurry of voices.

“What’s going on with Sir Austin? We’ve been waiting out here for half a day, and he completely ignores us! Instead, he lets some low-ranking officer in. Is he trying to humiliate us?” Percival complained, his face turning red with anger.

Even though he was a civil official, Percival was one of the most powerful figures in all of West Lucozia. The prince himself would show him great respect.

After traveling all that way to the castle, he was met with nothing but cold indifference. Waiting was one thing; everyone had to deal with it, and nobody liked it. But what really frustrated him was seeing a lowly third-ranking official allowed to enter while he was left outside. It felt personal.

“What is the prince thinking?” Warrick wondered, frowning.

It didn’t make sense that an unknown low-ranking official was allowed inside while they had to stay outside.

“The Ballard family… Jovian… now this is interesting,” Huxley said with a sly smile. He had caught an important detail from the earlier conversation.

Austin had decided to welcome the messenger from the Ballard family, which was why Boston was granted entry, not because of his own status.

The Ballard family’s influence was significant. However, this raised even more questions. If the West Lucozian monarchy could ignore their own royal family, why were they giving special treatment to the Ballards, who lived on the other side of the continent? What was truly going on?