When Dustin thought about it carefully, he could guess Valon's intentions. With the Dragon Guard eliminated, the royal family would gain true control of the nation. However, due to the Dragon Guard's influence over the years, the royal family found itself in a precarious position and needed substantial support. It was clear that Valon had considered the West Lucozian monarchy the best choice to provide this support. On one hand, the West Lucozian monarchy boasted formidable military strength and wielded influence in the court. On the other hand, since they considered the Dragon Guard their sworn enemy, collaborating with them seemed like the logical move. As long as the royal family had the backing of the West Lucozian monarchy, their position would be fortified. This was the reason Valon had sought out an audience with Dustin. Although it sounded absurd for Dustin to decide the next in line for the throne, it underscored Valon's sincerity. He was indeed a strategist with a
"Your Majesty, forgive me for being direct, but I don't agree with you," Dustin said.He continued seriously, "While it might be normal for you to have multiple wives, in my view, a monogamous marriage is the only way to go. "Not to mention, a loveless marriage is a dead marriage. I don't wish to put myself or another person in that situation." Grace was surprised at Dustin's words and seemed to look at him in a different light after that. Most powerful and influential men in Oakvale had multiple women. The remaining minority either had wives from influential backgrounds, making it unwise to cheat publicly, or struggled with impotence.It was rare to find men like Dustin who had self-control and refrained from engaging in improper relationships. "Logan, do you not like Grace? Or do you think that she is not worthy of you?" Valon probed. His daughter dominated the Beauty Ranking. She was at the top, whether in terms of looks or talents. Countless young talents across the lan
Dustin frowned slightly. "Then, who do you think is most suitable to be the next ruler among your brothers?"Trying to get me to talk now, huh?" Grace chuckled lightly. "Since Father presented this question to you, you should find the answer yourself. I won't be able to help.""You're pretty incompetent as a Regal Observatory disciple!" Dustin shook his head helplessly.The nation's fate was going to be impacted by choosing a successor. Dustin never expected such a heavy responsibility to fall on his shoulders. The key matter was that no matter who he chose, he would inevitably offend the other powerful princes. He would land himself in trouble if that were to happen. "There's no need to be so anxious. Father gave you time to think about it. You can observe them carefully before deciding which prince has better potential or perhaps aligns better with the West Lucozian monarchy," Grace said meaningfully. "What a bother." Dustin sighed. He could feel a headache coming on."Oh
"Mr. Dyer, may I know why Prince Tristan has invited me at this hour?" Dustin feigned ignorance. "His Royal Highness heard you'd returned to Oakvale and is eager to catch up. Today is a beautiful night to have a conversation over drinks," Milton said with his head lowered. "Mr. Dyer, can we do this another day? I'm truly exhausted tonight and only wish to get back home and get some rest. I promise to visit another day," Dustin responded respectfully. This statement was not a lie. He had several intense battles that day and was still nursing significant injuries. He was genuinely longing for a good night's sleep. However, it seemed like fate had other plans. First, it was Grace, then the King, and now even Tristan's men were inviting him over. They were not allowing him even a moment's rest."Your Highness, Prince Tristan has prepared some food and is waiting in the mansion. If you feel tired, why not meet Prince Tristan first before resting there? I will make the necessary a
Right then, Grace and Dustin walked in together. "Tristan …" Grace said. Tristan stood up to greet them with a smile. "Long time no see, Grace."He then turned to Dustin and said, "I'm guessing this must be Logan. It's been ten years. You've changed so much. I almost couldn't recognize you.""Greetings, Your Royal Highness." Dustin bowed."There's no need for such formalities. We're cousins, after all." Tristan immediately went and straightened Dustin's back. "Come, have a seat. Just make yourself at home.""Thank you, Your Royal Highness.""Thank you, Tristan."Dustin and Grace took a seat after thanking him."Logan, I'm sorry for ushering you here at this hour, but some things just cannot be delayed. I hope you understand," Tristan took the initiative to apologize, showing great courtesy. "There's no need to apologize, Prince Tristan." Dustin smiled faintly. "It's an honor to be a guest at your residence."Tristan was about to say something when he saw Grace beside
The Celestial Eye was one of the three greatest sacred relics of the martial world. It shared a similar reputation with the Celestial Pearl and was a priceless treasure countless individuals dreamed of possessing. The Celestial Eye was an extraordinarily mystical item with infinite uses. It could not only see through all kinds of illusions, but it could also break through numerous intricate spells. For example, one could immediately tell if they were trapped in an illusion or ensnared by a spell. Not only that, it was also useful during battles. It could discern all of the enemy's attacks. Not only that, it could also see through their weaknesses and lethal moves. Plus, it was an advantageous item to have during treasure hunting. It could tell if something was a treasure, its exact value, and its precise location. The Celestial Eye would reveal them all.Dustin never expected Tristan to possess such a treasure."You have a good eye, Logan!" Tristan exclaimed. He continued with a s
"I've been frail and ailing since childhood and can't deal with taxing work, not to mention trekking through mountains or waters, " Tristan explained. "Besides, I'm just a scholar. Why would I need the Dracan essence to enhance my cultivation? "Stop hesitating and just take it. You're the future King of West Lucozia and a pillar of our nation. The stronger you become, the more prosperous our country will be. "If I get the chance to inherit the throne, I will share the world with you, and together, we will create glory!"Tristan patted Dustin's shoulder with a smile, his last sentence implying a clear message. Since Dustin had accepted his treasure, he should support Tristan's ascension to the throne, and it would be a mutually advantageous situation."Prince Tristan, I appreciate your generosity. Thank you," Dustin said. Since Tristan had already put it that way, Dustin couldn't find another reason to decline. But the main reason was because the Celestial Eye would help him g
"What happened?" Dustin was in a daze and only felt a gentle fragrance envelop him. When he finally came to his senses, he realized he was lying in Grace's arms. Grace was dressed in loose attire, so he didn't notice it at first. But the intimacy of their close proximity finally made him realize the true meaning of firmness and suppleness. "What are you doing?" Grace frowned in anger and embarrassment. "Sorry, it wasn't on purpose. The car suddenly stopped, and I lost my balance, so …" Dustin felt awkward. "How long are you going to touch me? Get your hands off me!" Grace yelled."I'm sorry, I'm sorry." Dustin was so shocked he retracted his hands immediately. Sure enough, being too tired would only lead to delayed reactions. "What's going on outside?" Grace asked in a slightly louder voice. "Your Royal Highness, someone has blocked the way," the driver replied. "Blocking the road at this late hour? Is it an assassin?" Grace was the first to get out of the car. Dus
After making up his mind, Jovian no longer hesitated. He instructed the driver to make a U-turn and head straight to the meeting place.The meeting location was in a restaurant not far from the castle. It was only a ten-minute drive from where they had turned back.When Jovian and Boston walked inside, they found the place nearly empty. There were no guests in sight, just a few receptionists. It looked like the restaurant had been cleared out just for them."Sir, please follow me. Sir Prescott is waiting for you upstairs," the restaurant owner personally greeted them and led them to a private room on the second floor.Warrick, Huxley, and Percival were leisurely drinking tea inside the room. The three chatted and laughed, but their conversation stopped the moment Jovian and Boston entered. All three turned their attention to Jovian.They were quite curious about him. He had been privately invited by Austin and even stayed for dinner at the castle. It was a privilege none of them h
"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