Was Scarlet irritated? What was wrong with her? Even though Elena was frustrated and seething with anger, she dared not utter a word.The assistant general from the Moseys was puzzled. But he was relieved that he kept his mouth shut earlier. Otherwise, he might have gotten a few slaps."Now, listen up. I'm only saying this once." Scarlet's icy gaze swept over everyone. "Dustin is my friend, and the Camron family is our business partner. If any of you start talking nonsense, don't blame me for beating you up!""What? Friends?" The crowd gasped, utterly astonished. Who would've thought Scarlet was here because of Dustin? What kind of connections did he have to get the Goddess of War here?"My Lady, are you serious? You're friends with this loser?" Eleanor couldn't believe it. To her, Dustin was just a doctor with some fighting skills. How could he be friends with the high and mighty Spanner family?"Yes, My Lady! He's just a loser. How could you be friends with him?" Elena
Eleanor and the others left, and the tension within the Camron family finally began to ease. Matteo and the rest observed Scarlet, who maintained an impassive expression, feeling uneasy.While they were grateful for Scarlet's intervention, they couldn't quite fathom why she chose to help. In the eyes of the Camron family, who felt like mere ants compared to the towering giants of the Spanner family, they couldn't fathom why anyone would be concerned about them.Then, Scarlet offered a straightforward explanation. "Don't overthink it. I helped you all because of Dustin.""Dustin?" The Camron family's attention shifted to Dustin, their faces reflecting surprise and suspicion. Initially, Dustin was perceived as having no influence or background, merely a bold martial artist. But now, it seemed there was more to Dustin than they thought. If someone like Scarlet was willing to help him, then perhaps he wasn't as insignificant as they had presumed.In the face of everyone's surpris
Scarlet nodded. "Seamus has plenty of adopted sons and daughters. Losing one or two won't bother him. I'll handle it personally. If they put up a fight, we're not afraid to go to war."She never accepted Anders to be called the God of War. If there were an opportunity, she'd be more than willing to have a showdown to prove who was truly stronger."And those two big-shot families, the Welch and Forrest families, acting all high and mighty. They really need a reality check," Dustin remarked casually."That's easy. Just dig up their family's dark history, expose them, and send them to prison. No need for elaborate plans," she replied.For the Spanner family, it was easy to take down the Welch and Forrest family. There was no need for intricate schemes. A simple command could make them pay for what they had done.This stark difference between the great families and ancient houses showcased the hierarchy. Even though the great families were incredibly wealthy, their riches and status
The sudden, furious outburst left Elena in shock. Holding the phone, she looked bewildered and asked, "Dad, what's happening? Is something wrong back home?"Her father's voice roared from the other end, "You got the nerve to ask? It's all because of the mess you've stirred up!"Just now, the authorities sent in a bunch of troops. They not only locked down all our assets but also arrested most of our key members! "Now, the entire Forrest family is on the edge. If this keeps up, I might even end up behind bars!""What? How could this happen? Our family business is thriving, and we have extensive connections. Who could seize our family assets?" Elena widened her eyes in disbelief. The Forrest family business had been thriving. With the extensive network connections, any issues could usually be resolved easily. It never escalated into such a dire situation."What the heck have you done? Do you have any idea what's going on? Someone is dead set on putting you behind bars. "You t
Eleanor had never imagined that the Welch family would be in such dire straits. With her parents desperately fleeing for their lives and the family teetering on the precipice of bankruptcy, the once-mighty great family had crumbled overnight.This sudden and shocking downfall marked the end of her life of luxury and the days of carefree extravagance."Eleanor, is your family possibly going through a similar ordeal?" Elena cautiously asked."Just like you, authorities raided our home," Eleanor replied, her expression grim, beads of sweat forming on her forehead."My family is in trouble, and your family is being raided, too. Is this really just a coincidence?" Elena furrowed her brow.Overnight, two prominent families were targeted simultaneously. It was clearly a sabotage. But who could wield such immense power? "Looks like someone from the four ancient houses is pulling the strings." Eleanor mused."Are you suggesting ... the Spanner family?" Elena quickly made the connectio
"A chance? How?" Elena perked up instantly. With disaster looming for both their families, who else could save them? "The Spanners may be powerful, but they don't have absolute control. Also, the Moseys are still the most powerful among the four ancient houses."Eleanor said seriously, "Don't forget that Dustin killed Scott. Even if the Spanners back him up, the Moseys won't just let him get away with it. "That is why we can work with the Moseys to turn the tables on Dustin. We won't only protect ourselves that way, but we can also exact revenge. It'll be a win-win situation!""You're right, that's a great idea!" Elena lit up. Why hadn't she thought of it earlier? Despite pressure from the Spanners, there might still be a chance for them with the Moseys' support. "Eleanor, I'll call Dahlia immediately and ask her to find a way to help us through this crisis." Elena picked up her phone and was about to make the call when Eleanor stopped her. "Wait! Calling Dahlia may not h
"Don't worry, I won't die for now. Considering the gravity of the situation, I won't be able to rest well anyway. If I visit while in a wheelchair, I'll also appear more sincere," Elena said. "Alright then, let's pay a visit to Jadeleaf Manor." Eleanor didn't delay and quickly had someone bring a wheelchair over. After helping Elena into it, they got in the car and headed straight for Jadeleaf Manor. … It was late at night. Anders was at Jadeleaf Manor. He was in his study, poring over some documents in his hands with a serious expression.Ever since Dustin created a scene at Jadeleaf Manor earlier in the day, he had mobilized all available resources to investigate him secretly.After several hours of effort, he finally got his hands on some information. It was revealed that Dustin was originally from Swinton and had a prior marriage with Dahlia. Initially, Dustin was just an ordinary individual with a basic knowledge of medicine. However, after his divorce, he transformed
"Logan Rhys?" The confidant's eyes widened in disbelief. "That's impossible. Wasn't he reported dead?""He just disappeared. That doesn't necessarily mean he's dead. At least we haven't found a complete body so far," Anders said solemnly. Ten years ago, the chaos happened suddenly and ended abruptly. After that night, Logan, who had all eyes on him, mysteriously disappeared. The only thing the authorities found was a charred body that they suspected to be him. However, the body was so badly burnt that it was impossible to identify. Due to the official announcement, many people came to believe that the body was indeed his. Only the sharp individuals were skeptical, as there were inconsistencies and uncertainties surrounding this issue. However, people gradually accepted this outcome as time passed without any news of Logan. It only came to his mind because he found a striking resemblance between Dustin and Logan. Not only were they both young and exceptionally talented,
"An outsider? Who is it?" Percival asked urgently. "Could it be that assistant general who came in at noon?"Warrick frowned. "I've looked into that man. No background, no connections—just an old hand in the military. Been around forever, knows the ropes, but has no real pull.""It's not him—it's someone connected to him." Huxley lowered his voice. "Remember what Sir Austin said at noon? When he summoned that assistant general, he specifically mentioned the Ballard family.""The Ballard family?" Percival looked surprised. "You mean the Ballards from Oakvale? Are you saying they've already beaten us to it and met with the prince?""The prince hasn't met with them, but according to my intel, this man, Jovian Ballard, spent two hours chatting with Sir Austin today. They talked and laughed like old acquaintances. Sir Austin even invited him to stay for dinner at the castle." Huxley's face darkened. He continued, "Look, the Ballards sent someone at a time like this. They're obviously
After a brief discussion in the meeting room, Austin invited Jovian to tour the West Lucozia castle.The castle was enormous, equipped with imaginable facilities. Unfamiliar visitors could easily get lost in its vastness.Jovian prided himself on being well-traveled, yet as he toured the castle, even he couldn't hide his astonishment. Unlike the ostentatious displays of wealth seen in luxurious estates, this castle could only be described as grand, majestic, and awe-inspiring. Everything in his line of sight conveyed a sense of grandeur and majesty.What stunned Jovian the most was the House of Heroes inside the West Lucozia castle. The structure was nine stories high and looked like an ancient monument.The walls were lined with memorials of fallen soldiers. The place was packed with thousands of tablets, each engraved with the hero's name and a detailed account of their life stories for future generations to honor and remember.The Ballard family had a family tree that record
"Your Highness! Please mind your words," Jovian quickly cautioned. He glanced around nervously, as if afraid someone might be eavesdropping.Speculating on Valon's fate in private was an act of grave disrespect. If someone with a hidden agenda spread this information, a ruined reputation would be the least of their concerns—what came after would be far worse."Relax, Mr. Jovian. We're in West Lucozia, not Oakvale. Here, we can say whatever we want without worry." Austin smiled faintly, showing no concern.These were well-known facts, so what was the harm in saying them out loud? Keeping quiet wouldn't change a thing, anyway. What a joke."Ahem… perhaps I was overthinking it." Jovian let out an awkward chuckle. He knew Austin wasn't wrong, but his cautious nature kept him from discussing Valon's affairs too openly."Honestly, a lot of people have been showing up in West Lucozia lately. There's a whole group standing outside right now, and they're all here for the same reason as you
Austin smiled brightly as he ushered Jovian into the meeting room with surprising enthusiasm.Jovian looked confused and somewhat unprepared. Before entering, he had already imagined many possible scenarios for their meeting. He had mentally prepared for a range of reactions from Austin—whether he would be ignored, faced with cold indifference, or dealt with arrogance. He was ready for any of those. After all, the rumors about Austin painted him as a "hellraiser" who did whatever he pleased.But, to his surprise, Austin didn't give him any trouble at all. Instead, he was giving him a warm reception, which left him utterly confused.Something felt off. He couldn't make sense of Austin's sudden warmth, and he had no idea what game he was playing."Bring the tea!" After inviting Jovian to sit, Austin gestured for the attendant to serve the tea. The drink was a rare specialty from West Lucozia, a premium elixir tea not sold to the public but reserved for high-ranking officials. Its
After stepping into the castle, Boston felt a knot in his stomach. He had been here before, but only for official matters.He was always escorted by guards or attendants, but this time, Austin himself had led him inside. Boston felt both honored and somewhat overwhelmed. Since when had he earned such treatment?Austin had brushed off higher-ranking officials, so why was he showing him so much attention? Was it because his shiny bald head made him stand out? He had no answers, only a growing curiosity as he followed Austin into the meeting room. "Sit." After Austin sat at the head of the table, he raised his hand and gestured for Boston to do the same."No… no need. I'll just stand." Boston smiled awkwardly."Just sit down. Why are you so nervous? I won't bite," Austin said in a dismissive tone. "Y-Yes, Your Highness." Boston didn't dare refuse again and obediently took a seat. He was six feet three inches tall, yet he looked like a startled rabbit. He sat up straight and didn't
When the castle's gate swung open, every eye turned toward the entrance. Under the watchful gaze of the crowd, Austin strode out with his two guards. His posture exuded confidence and authority."Your Highness!"The gathered officials instantly rushed forward to greet him. Grins spread across their faces as if they couldn't wait to please him. Whether it was Huxley, Percival, or Warrick, all wore the same ingratiating expression.After all, Austin was the infamous hellraiser. Though he had reined himself over the past two years, his past reputation still loomed over them.At least Rufus could be reasoned with. But Austin? He was a wild card—utterly unpredictable, like a ticking time bomb. Every last one of them had suffered his wrath before.Percival approached with a flattering smile. "Your Highness, you finally come out. I have something important to discuss with you. If you'd be so kind as to listen—"Before he could finish his sentence, he was dismissed by Austin, who found h
"Get lost! I'm not in the mood for anything right now. If you want to eat, go on your own." Warrick snapped, looking annoyed."I'm not going either," Percival refused flatly. "I'm on a health regimen these days—only tea, no alcohol.""Fine. If you're going to wait, then keep waiting. I won't be sticking around." Huxley forced a smile and acted like he was about to leave.But as he turned, he almost bumped into Boston, who was approaching from the other direction."Sorry, Sir Thatcher! I hope I didn't startle you." Since he was surrounded by so many high-ranking officials, Boston was already on edge. He had momentarily spaced out and almost caused a mishap by running into Huxley, which left him flustered and a bit tongue-tied.Unlike the other generals, Boston didn't come from an influential background or have any powerful connections. He had worked his way up from the bottom, and the last thing he wanted was to offend Huxley and risk losing everything he had fought so hard for.
After parting ways with Boston, Jovian checked into a nearby hotel to await the good news. Boston wasted no time. After changing into a fresh set of clothes, he headed to the castle to deliver a letter of introduction. But when he arrived, he was stunned by what he saw.The gates of the West Lucozian monarchy had already gathered quite a few people, and among them were several figures he immediately recognized. These included Huxley Thatcher, the Commander of the Militia; Warrick Prescott, the Major General of the State Guard; and Percival Wentworth, the Chancellor of the National Academy.These three were first-ranking officials. In West Lucozia, they were nothing short of kingmakers who wielded immense power and influence. Warrick, in particular, was two ranks above Boston. Hence, he felt the need to be cautious in his presence and was eager not to make a bad impression.Alongside these three prominent figures, several second- and third-ranking officials also stood in line at
The following morning, Jovian stood at the entrance of West Lucozia Airport, wearing a sharp suit.Before the trip, he had contacted his comrade with whom he had fought side by side in the military. After earning military merit and with the Ballard family's influence, he was fortunate enough to stay in Oakvale and secure a decent position.His comrade, on the other hand, had moved to West Lucozia to carve out a life for himself. Years of hard work had paid off—he was now a third-rank general with considerable power, influence, and a strong network of connections. Jovian's meeting with the Prince of West Lucozia would depend entirely on his comrade's connections.Just then, the roar of an engine cut through the air as a military jeep pulled up beside him. The window rolled down, and the first thing that came into view was a bald head gleaming in the sunlight like a lightbulb. The glare nearly blinded him.Under that shiny dome was a face that looked ordinary at first glance. But w