An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2458

“An outsider? Who is it?” Percival asked, clearly worried. “Could it be that assistant general who came in at noon?”

Warrick shook his head, frowning. “I’ve checked him out. He has no background or connections—just a seasoned military guy. He knows what he’s doing, but he doesn’t have any real influence.”

“It’s not him, but someone related to him,” Huxley whispered. “Remember what Sir Austin said earlier? When he called in that assistant general, he mentioned the Ballard family specifically.”

“The Ballard family?” Percival exclaimed in surprise. “You mean the ones from Oakvale? Are you saying they’ve already met with the prince?”

“Not exactly. The prince hasn’t met with them, but my sources tell me that Jovian Ballard spent two hours with Sir Austin today. They were chatting and laughing like old friends. Sir Austin even invited him to dinner at the castle.”

Huxley’s expression turned serious.

“Look, the Ballards are making a move at a critical time. They’re clearly trying to gather information. Sir Austin ignores us but meets with Jovian privately—doesn’t that show where his loyalties lie?”

“This doesn’t add up,” Percival said, a frown on his face. “The Ballard family doesn’t have any direct ties to the royal family or any business with them. Why would Sir Austin care so much about Jovian? Is there something else going on?”

“I think it’s strange too,” Warrick agreed. “The Ballards might have some influence in Oakvale, but they’re nobodies in West Lucozia. If they had real power, they wouldn’t be sending an assistant general to deliver their message. And knowing Sir Austin, he wouldn’t go out of his way for people like that.”

They were confused. They didn’t understand what was really happening.

Jovian didn’t understand why Austin would want to meet privately. What could they possibly have in common?

“Gentlemen, it doesn’t matter how this happened anymore. What’s important now is how we deal with this Ballard family member,” Huxley reminded everyone.

They had already met, eaten, and discussed the key points. Focusing on Austin and Jovian’s relationship was pointless now. They needed to concentrate on getting the information they required.

“Mr. Wentworth, you always have great ideas. What do you think?” Warrick asked, looking for input. Instead of answering directly, he turned the question to the group.

“Since we can’t reach the prince or Sir Austin, why not start with that Ballard guy?” Percival suggested, stroking his white beard thoughtfully.

“He’s new to West Lucozia and doesn’t know the area well, so he should be easy to handle. We could invite him for a meal to learn more about him. What do you think?” he continued.

“Great idea! Let’s do it that way,” Warrick quickly agreed. Even though he couldn’t enter the castle, approaching an outsider like Jovian wouldn’t be a problem.

“But who should extend the invitation?” Huxley asked.

“Mr. Prescott, isn’t Boston Graham, that assistant general, one of your subordinates? He could invite Jovian and act as the middleman. What do you think?” Percival proposed.

“Sounds good. I’ll handle it right away,” Warrick replied without hesitation.

Boston was two ranks below him, and people at that rank usually didn’t attend important meetings. But with Warrick personally arranging the invite, he was sure Jovian wouldn’t refuse.

Later that evening, Jovian left the castle through the back entrance after dinner. The castle was full of gossip, and he wanted to avoid it. If news got out, it could cause trouble for the Ballard family.

Jovian cut him off. “No, I’ve made my decision. I’ll go with you.”

Boston looked worried but nodded. He knew Jovian was right. Turning down the invitation might cause more problems than facing whatever awaited them.

As they arrived at the hotel, Jovian and Boston prepared for the unexpected meeting with Sir Prescott. Jovian took a deep breath, bracing himself for what was to come. He had heard stories about Warrick Prescott, and they were not comforting.

“Just remember, stay calm and confident,” Boston advised as they stepped inside. “He can sense fear.”

Jovian appreciated the support but felt a knot in his stomach. They walked to the dining area, where Sir Prescott awaited them.

“Ah, there you are!” Prescott greeted them with a wide smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I was starting to think you wouldn’t come.”

“Of course, we wouldn’t miss it,” Jovian replied, trying to sound upbeat.

“Good. Let’s eat and discuss some important matters,” Prescott said, gesturing for them to sit.

As they settled in, Jovian felt the weight of the situation. Whatever Prescott wanted to discuss, he knew it wouldn’t be simple.

Jovian interrupted him, saying, “Don’t worry. It’s just a meal. It’s not like I’m being led to the guillotine. What’s there to fear?”

He added, “So, where are we supposed to meet? Let’s go now and not waste time.”

Jovian wasn’t one to back down at the first hint of trouble. If he did, what kind of leader would he be? The Ballard family was one of the four ancient houses, and they wouldn’t be intimidated by some general.