"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
"If I insist on going home?" Dustin's expression grew cold. "We're just following orders. I hope you won't make things difficult for us." Neville stood still, not making any indication to move. The Silver Armor Army behind him also looked at them with burning gazes. Based on the grand scene, it appeared Dustin would be forcibly taken there if he refused to go. "Your Highness, since they're already here, there's no harm in going. Having another friend is always a good thing." Grace gently nudged Dustin as a reminder.This wasn't the time to be stubborn. No matter how tired he was, he had to endure it. After all, it would be a clear lack of courtesy if he agreed to visit Tristan but refused to visit Matthias.With Matthias' personality, there was no saying what he would do."Fine, please show the way, General Elrod." Dustin took a deep breath, holding in his temper. While he wanted to refuse them flatly, it would trigger a chain of problems afterward. "Thank you, Your Hi
"And as for the rest of you, I'll be investigating each of you one by one." Austin's gaze moved past Langdon and landed on the royal advisors. He sneered and added, "You'd better keep your records clean. If I find anything on any of you, I'll handle it by the book, and there won't be any mercy."At these words, panic swept through the room. Everyone exchanged nervous glances, and their hearts pounded like war drums.As soon as they realized Austin was angry, they quickly fell silent. Langdon had always been making all the noise, but now they found themselves caught in the fire.Anyone who'd held a position like theirs usually had some skeletons in the closet. In the past, Rufus had been willing to turn a blind eye and let things slide. But now, Austin clearly wasn't following the usual rules. If he decided to investigate thoroughly, most of them would likely find their careers and reputations destroyed."Mr. Rhys, what do we do now? Lord Austin seems dead serious about this."
"Langdon, I can't tell if you're playing dumb or if you really are that stupid." Though Austin was smiling, his eyes were cold. He continued, "You asked for physical evidence, and I provided it. You asked for witnesses, and I gave you those too. Now, with both evidence and testimony laid bare, and even the criminal confessing, what else do you want?""Hmph! The government is rife with corruption. I'm simply seeking justice and preventing you from wrongfully killing the innocent." Langdon still held his righteous stance.Some of the royal advisors who had initially supported him now stayed silent. They could sense Austin's rising anger and didn't dare provoke him further. At that instant, they had lost their confidence. As Austin had pointed out, the solid evidence was right before them, and it was impossible to deny.Langdon was a member of the Rhys family and Austin's elder. He could afford to speak without a filter, but the others couldn't. If they truly angered Austin, the
"Sir Thatcher? Mr. Wentworth?" When Langdon saw their faces, his eyes went wide in disbelief. "You… How did you two end up like this?" He was genuinely stunned.Huxley and Percival were two of the most powerful figures in West Lucozia. They commanded respect wherever they went, and even Langdon himself had to show them deference.He never expected that they had fallen from their positions of prestige to become disheveled prisoners overnight."Austin! You've gone too far!" Recovering from his initial shock, Langdon's fury erupted. He didn't even bother with titles anymore. "Do you even realize what you're doing? These two men are pillars of West Lucozia and the prince's most trusted advisors. They're your elders and mentors. Yet, you tortured them like this. Are you even human?""He's right," someone chimed in. "They dedicated their lives to this country. What crime did they commit to deserve such cruelty by Your Highness?"The gathered officials erupted in outrage and condemned
"Your Highness, you mustn't speak such nonsense." Langdon put on a righteous front.He continued, "I've always prided myself on my integrity and never done anything dishonorable. I've never betrayed the prince's trust or let the people down, and I have nothing to hide.""Such lofty words," Austin scoffed. "If you have nothing to hide, why not let the enforcement team investigate?"Langdon's face tightened, and a flicker of unease crossed his eyes. After all, what official didn't have some skeletons in the closet? A full investigation would likely turn up something, no matter how small. Even if the offenses weren't serious, the damage to his reputation would be permanent.With so many officials watching, Langdon couldn't afford to back down. If he did, he would lose his standing in the political world—and his claim to integrity along with it."Go ahead and investigate." He raised his chin and said confidently, "I've lived an honest life and never engaged in anything illegal. No m
Austin sat in his chair and silently watched the royal advisors put on their pretentious act. He slowly sipped his tea as if he couldn't be bothered by their so-called accusations.His nonchalant demeanor made Langdon and the others frown. Their once-outrageous voices began to falter.They had stormed in full of righteous fury earlier, only to be met with complete apathy. What was the point of arguing when he wasn't even listening?"Are you done?" Austin finally spoke once the room had quieted down. "If not, go ahead and keep talking. Say as much as you need to until you're satisfied.""Your Highness, we're here to discuss serious matters. Your dismissive attitude is truly disappointing," Langdon said sharply."Serious matters?" Austin let out a short laugh.He went on, "You barge in here without even understanding the full picture and spewing accusations like they're facts. As far as I'm concerned, you're no different from clowns putting on a show.""You… How dare you!" Langdon
"Are you even qualified to sit while speaking to me?"Austin's words struck like the blow of a hammer. They were sharp and unrelenting, and they left no room for retort.Langdon sat frozen and was momentarily speechless. He hadn't expected a brat like Austin to have such a sharp tongue.If he admitted he had come for personal matters, he would keep his pride intact, but he would lose control of the conversation. Everything he had prepared—and all the accusations he meant to throw—would be meaningless.But if he insisted it was official business, he would have to show proper respect and offer a formal greeting. No matter how he answered, he would be conceding ground."I'll ask one more time. Are you here on official or personal matters?" Austin asked coldly."O-Official matters." Cornered, Langdon barely managed to get the words out."Well? Is this how an official conducts himself?" Austin pressed.Langdon had no choice but to rise and offer a deep bow. "Your Highness, it's an h
After a night of chaos, some of the Red Legion's members were killed, others were captured, and the entire force had been wiped out.But the fallout didn't stop there. The Prescott estate was also raided. All embezzled wealth was confiscated, and those found guilty were thrown into prison.Anyone connected to the Prescotts was placed under house arrest and subjected to rigorous investigation.And the man behind it—Warrick—had become the kingdom's most wanted fugitive.Until he was captured, Celestria remained under lockdown. Major roads were sealed off, and patrol teams scoured every corner to ensure Warrick had no way out.Austin's crackdown sparked outrage among senior officials who didn't know the full story. They voiced their dissatisfaction, with some even gathering outside the castle gates in protest. They stomped their feet in outrage, just short of openly cursing him.To them, Warrick had made great contributions to the nation. Even if he had committed crimes, he didn't d
Austin's words were calm and almost casual. Yet, they struck like thunder and echoed in the hearts of the three assistant generals of the Red Legion.If they answered Austin's questions, there might still be a slim chance of survival. But if they refused, death was the only outcome.After all, who would willingly choose death when they had worked so hard to achieve their wealth and status? Yet, pride and dignity held them back. They didn't want to be branded as traitors.Now, they were caught in a dilemma. Which was more important—their honor or their lives? It was an impossible choice."You have ten seconds left. If you don't speak, you'll lose your chance." Austin's voice was utterly devoid of emotion.His words seemed to pierce their souls, and the three Red Legion assistant generals broke into a cold sweat.As the countdown neared its end, Auron finally couldn't hold back. "Your Highness! I'll talk—I'll tell you everything."Dropping to his knees, he scrambled forward and wa
Axel swallowed hard, shock written all over his face. He had always known the Draken Guardians were formidable, but he had never expected them to be this lethal.He had pushed himself to his limit just to hold his own against Connor and Dave, only to end up seriously wounded. Yet, when the Draken Guardians arrived, they wiped them out—along with several dozen Red Legion soldiers—without losing a single man.If Axel hadn't seen it with his own eyes, he would never have believed that the Red Legion, a force renowned for its elite soldiers, could be so easily crushed. Or perhaps it wasn't that the Red Legion was weak, but that the Draken Guardians were far stronger than anyone had imagined.Even their most ordinary members were strong enough to become a mighty general. As for those at the level of captain, their strength was far beyond Axel's. The lethality of a team made up of such skilled experts had reached the point of being an overwhelming force."Mr. Cruz, please arrange some