An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2540

“Mr. Rhys, you’re incredibly generous,” Felicia said. “I don’t know how I could ever repay you.”

She gently ran her fingers over the smooth surface of the ornate box, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears as she looked up at Dustin with gratitude.

“It’s nothing, Ms. Thorns. Don’t mention it,” he replied with an indifferent smile. “Besides, this Dracan essence was always meant for Prince Nathaniel. I’m just delivering it.”

Felicia smiled sincerely. “What would you like in return? If it’s within my ability, I’ll gladly help.”

“I’m not asking for anything,” Dustin said. “I only hope that if I ever find myself in need, Prince Nathaniel will be willing to lend a hand.”

“I see,” Felicia nodded in understanding.

Dustin wasn’t seeking wealth—he was aiming for a future favor from Nathaniel.

Given the prince’s current status, a favor from him was more valuable than any treasure.

If Nathaniel were to ascend the throne and become king, the worth of that favor would skyrocket. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that even if Dustin were guilty of a serious crime, that favor might be enough to spare his life.

Felicia couldn’t help but admire the cleverness behind his request.

“It’s getting late, so I’ll let you rest,” she said.

She stood and offered a polite bow, then smoothly changed the subject. “If you’re ever in the mood, I’d be honored to challenge you to another game of chess.”

Catching the surprised look on Dustin’s face, Felicia smiled knowingly before turning to leave. Her pastel pink dress fluttered gently in the breeze as she disappeared through the courtyard gate.

“She really is a bewitching temptress,” he muttered, shaking his head.

Dustin prided himself on his self-control, but under Felicia’s teasing smile and suggestive glances, he had nearly lost his composure.

Now that the Dracan essence was handed over, all he could do was wait for what would follow.

After leaving the guesthouse, Felicia walked briskly toward Nathaniel’s study. She knocked gently on the door. Upon hearing his invitation, she stepped inside with grace.

“How did it go? Any updates?” he asked.

Nathaniel gestured for her to sit as he poured her a cup of tea. He viewed her more as a trusted advisor than a subordinate—she had certainly earned his respect.

“Your Highness, the task is complete. I’ve obtained the Dracan essence,” Felicia said, respectfully presenting the ornate box.

“Oh?”

Nathaniel raised an eyebrow, then eagerly took the box and opened it with care.

When he saw the softly glowing Dracan essence inside, his eyes lit up with delight. He couldn’t help but exclaim, “Excellent! Felicia, you’ve truly outdone yourself.”

He gripped the ornate box tightly, as though it contained a treasure beyond measure.

Nathaniel had expected this task to require more time and effort, but everything had gone smoothly. Sending Felicia had been the perfect choice.

“It’s an honor to serve, Your Highness,” she replied, bowing her head humbly.
Though Nathaniel treated her as a trusted consultant, Felicia knew better than to overstep her bounds.

“Logan has already handed over the Dracan essence. Has he made a decision regarding his allegiance? Does he intend to join me?” Nathaniel asked.

She replied, “Mr. Rhys said he still needs time to consider. This isn’t a decision to be rushed. He asked for your patience, Your Highness.

“With his intelligence, I’m sure he understands your sincerity. But since this concerns his future, it’s only natural he’d be cautious.”

Nathaniel didn’t press the issue. “It’s fine. I’ve already secured the Dracan essence. Whether he joins us or not—we’ll deal with that later. You may go now. Get some rest.”

With his insight, he could tell Dustin was still assessing the situation, waiting for the right moment to act.

To put it plainly, Dustin would likely offer support when the odds were in their favor. He didn’t strike Nathaniel as someone who’d step in during adversity.

Still, whether or not he chose to fully commit, Dustin deserved the respect he was due. Even his quiet support from the sidelines was already valuable.

Night had fallen like a heavy curtain over the estate. Moonlight pierced the clouds, casting a cold, muted glow.

Nathaniel tucked the Dracan essence close to his chest and headed toward a secluded courtyard, flanked by two guards.

The courtyard was surrounded by thorny bushes and enclosed by high walls.

Two formidable sentries with piercing gazes stood at the entrance. Each held a longsword and kept a sharp watch on their surroundings.

“Your Highness,” they greeted in unison, bowing as Nathaniel approached.

He gave a curt nod and said in a low voice, “Open the gate.”

With a deep, grating creak, the heavy doors slowly opened.

Nathaniel stepped through and followed a narrow, dimly lit path until he arrived at a small, unassuming house.

Two more guards stood watch at the door.

After verifying his identity, they allowed him inside.

The room was dim, illuminated only by a few oil lamps that cast flickering shadows on the walls.

Nathaniel approached a bare section of the far wall and activated a hidden lever. With a heavy rumble, the wall slid aside, revealing a stone staircase leading underground.

He descended, each step drawing him deeper into stillness and silence.

At the bottom, he entered a vast chamber filled with rare and ancient treasures—jewels sparkled under the faint light, ancient weapons gleamed with a cold edge, and priceless scrolls were neatly arranged on shelves.

At the far end of the chamber stood a massive steel vault door, engraved with intricate runes.