"That sounds about right." Dustin nodded."There's been a huge change in the Astonishing World List. Alaric Drakon and Seth Hughes passed away one after another. Cesar Fent is still missing, and Nestor Wilkins was killed. We lost four of the ten best fighters from last year. It's a huge loss. We're lucky to have found new and strong fighters to replace them. It's true that new talents will always replace old ones," Grace said."Do you know anything about the new people who just made it to the list?" Dustin suddenly asked."The fifth one on the list, Reagan Judd. He is the new leader of Dragon Guard. My father told you about him before. He used to go by Reston Rever. He finally got what he wanted when Alaric Drakon died.""I know Reagan Judd. What I don't understand is, he was never on the list before. How did he make it to the list after Alaric's death and how did he make it to the top five?" Dustin was slightly curious."How should I explain this? Reagan has never revealed mu
In the realm of West Lucozia, within Celestria, Dustin and Grace discreetly boarded a business car to avoid any attention after landing.Their undercover agents and guards had arrived in West Lucozia the previous night after traveling separately by plane. This added an extra layer of secrecy and safety to their journey.Grace observed the bustling scenery outside the window. She found the streets of West Lucozia quite intriguing. It was a different sight compared to the hustle and bustle of Oakvale. She seldom ventured beyond Oakvale. She found the distinct regional landscapes and cultural customs to be a source of fascination and novelty."I didn't expect West Lucozia to change so much. When I visited here as a child, most of the buildings were low. Now, in just over a decade, it's as prosperous as Oakvale," Grace remarked, marveling at the view."Yeah, the changes in West Lucozia are significant. Even I find it hard to recognize the roads now," Dustin replied with a complex exp
Nestled within an expansive 800 acre Rhys Memorial Park, or the Ancient House Memorial Park, was a scenic panorama. Wide pathways wandered beneath the cool shade of abundant trees, and the amenities were extensive. Across the changing of seasons, the park transformed with an array of flowers, plants, and trees.Spring painted a lively spectacle with blooming cherry blossoms, while summer invited a refreshing ambiance with flourishing greenery. In autumn, a mesmerizing array of cascading maple leaves took center stage, and winter cloaked the landscape in a pristine blanket of white snow.Rhys Memorial Park opened its gates to the public. It provided a final resting place not just for the Rhys family, but also as a tribute to the soldiers who were instrumental in the monarchy's prosperity. Annually, on Memorial Day and All Saint's Day, the memorial park transformed into a lively center. It attracted visitors who came to honor departed loved ones or express gratitude to fallen heroe
Dustin quietly reflected on memories of his mother as he bowed his head. With the identification of the instigator, Alaric, and the dissolution of Dragon Guard, only Reagan and Cinna remained. Once this remaining threat was eliminated, he would have avenged his mother."Mom ... I really miss you!" Dustin whispered, gazing at the stone statue before him. In his recollections, Rufus was always engrossed in state affairs, seldom returning home. It was Alba who worked tirelessly to raise him. During his rebellious childhood, Dustin often perceived his mother as being too strict. He occasionally earned a few cane lashes for minor missteps. Now mature, he understood his mother's well-intentioned discipline.As the Crown Prince of West Lucozia, born with a silver spoon, he could have easily devolved into a pampered playboy without his mother's guidance. She had nurtured him in martial arts, military strategy, medicine, and even some divine esoteric techniques. She not only gave him life
Dustin raised an eyebrow as he took in the information on the tombstone. He was surprised that the name etched on it belonged to Leo Ashen, the former Vice General of the renowned Black Dragon Army's vanguard. The vanguard army was composed of elite soldiers that were chosen with meticulous care. Attaining the rank of vice commander required an exceptional level of prowess.In Dustin's recollection, Leo was renowned for his inherent strength and ferocity on the battlefield. He had a distinguished career, and had made significant contributions to Rufus' efforts to stabilize West Lucozia. Leo's sacrifice resulted in a posthumous promotion, securing the position of vanguard army General-in-Chief. The grandeur of his funeral underscored his importance.Leo's descendants had enjoyed privileges and benefits. Hence, it was perplexing to witness the family in such dire straits. This raised the question of what had transpired.Dustin was intrigued. He approached slowly, eager to unravel
"Even if I can't handle it, isn't the Prince of West Lucozia there for such matters? Their influence can't possibly overshadow the West Lucozian monarchy, can it?" Dustin asked.Lucas wore a mournful expression. "It's not as straightforward as you might think. Those bullies have deep ties with high-ranking officials and the West Lucozian monarchy. It's not just socially but their interests also intertwine. No one is brave enough to touch them."Dustin frowned. "Shouldn't the prince take action against such individuals?"Considering Rufus' character, it was highly unlikely that he would tolerate such incidents.Lucas shook his head. "The prince is overwhelmed with his duties, and these corrupt officials cover up such ugly deeds. The prince is unlikely to be aware, let alone have the chance to seek justice for us.""I never imagined West Lucozia would deteriorate to this extent," Dustin remarked, his expression darkening. As the Crown Prince of West Lucozia, Dustin found him
Dustin's pledge stirred a deep sense of gratitude within Lucas. Lucas said, "If you can genuinely assist in rescuing my sister and seeking retribution for my mother, I will forever be in your debt. I'm more than willing to repay your kindness in any way possible." He felt overwhelmed and instinctively inclined to bow.Interrupting the gesture, Dustin earnestly declared, "Mr. Ashen, there's no need for such formality. When faced with injustice, it becomes our duty to step in. No resident of West Lucozia would stand idly by in the face of such wrongdoing.""Mr. Ashen, this isn't the place for discussion. There's a coffeehouse outside the memorial park. Let's head there to strategize," Grace suggested."Alright." Lucas nodded.Lucas used a cane for support as he left the memorial park with Dustin and Grace. They arrived at a coffeehouse named Aroma Haven Cafe.The coffeehouse had two bustling floors. The first was a hub of activity—coffee, entertainment, and music. It created a
"Alright." Lucas nodded, acknowledging the reality of his ailing leg. Joining the action in his current condition would be more of a hindrance than help. He'd end up a liability."By the way, Mr. Ashen, do you have a photo of your sister? Let us take a look to avoid any confusion," Dustin said."Sure, here it is!" Lucas swiftly retrieved his phone and presented a photo of him and his sister. Dustin nodded. Unquestionably, Lucas's sister possessed beauty—fair skin, a charming visage, and a radiant smile that exuded vibrancy and cheerfulness. Perhaps it was her striking beauty that drew the unwanted attention of bullies like Russo and his gang."Mr. Rhys! Be cautious of Russo's subordinates. They are formidable!" Lucas earnestly warned. As the son of a general, Lucas had received martial training from a young age, boasting significant strength. Handling ordinary individuals, even 100 at once, was a manageable feat. However, when faced with Russo's subordinates, he couldn't e
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
"Grandfather, I understand why you sent Uncle Jonathan and Uncle Jensen to the Spanner and Fallon families to gather information," Natasha began. "But West Lucozia is thousands of miles away."She shook her head slightly. "They've always stayed out of the government's political matters. Sending Uncle Jovian there wouldn't achieve anything. He'd likely just be turned away." Oakvale and West Lucozia were worlds apart. The fight for the Oakvale throne didn't really affect the West Lucozian monarchy. Both sides had long adhered to an unspoken agreement to avoid meddling in each other's affairs."I know, but it'll be different this time. The royal throne is at stake, and every faction will do whatever it takes to secure West Lucozia's support. If the West Lucozian monarchy picks a side, the balance we've maintained for years will collapse. That's why I need to be ready for whatever happens," Simon replied.It would be best if the West Lucozian monarchy stayed out of the political strug
At the Ballard estate, Dustin was warmly welcomed to stay after dinner. This was the first time Natasha had brought her boyfriend home, so the Ballards made a big deal of it.Simon personally accompanied the young couple and invited them to the study to chat over tea. With his sharp eye, Simon could tell Dustin was no ordinary martial artist. His manners, speech, and broad knowledge set him apart from most people."Dustin, I fully support your relationship with Natasha. Your background or status doesn't matter. What matters most is that you two are happy together." Simon paused and said earnestly, "I want you to understand that she's been pampered all her life and hasn't faced much hardship. Now that she's with you, I hope you'll take good care of her.""Don't worry, Mr. Ballard. I would never let her down," Dustin replied sincerely.Though they had known each other for some time and hadn't yet taken their relationship to the next level, they had already made their feelings clear
After hearing Nathaniel's words, Tristan's expression darkened. His brow furrowed as he sank into deep thought.It seemed he had underestimated the situation. He had assumed it was just a simple rivalry between brothers; he hadn't anticipated Seamus seizing the chance to further his own agenda.Seamus already wielded considerable influence. Under the guise of supporting Matthias' ascension to the throne, he had been forming alliances and recruiting talents. His influence had grown to rival the royal family's.If Seamus really supported Matthias' ascension, he'd overshadow the king, and no one would be able to stop him. The worst-case scenario would be Seamus using Matthias as a puppet to overthrow the House of Linsor."Nathaniel, is everything you said true?" Tristan frowned."Absolutely. Every word," Nathaniel replied solemnly. "Of course, if you don't believe me, you can send someone to investigate.""I believe you. But… taking down Seamus won't be easy. Do you have a plan?" Tr
An hour later, Nathaniel quietly entered a private mansion wearing a disguise.Inside the living room, Tristan had already prepared tea and refreshments. He looked as if he had been waiting for a long time."Sorry to have kept you waiting, Tristan." Nathaniel took off his coat and walked forward with a smile."No need to apologize. I'm happy that you made the effort to arrange this. A few extra minutes are nothing, especially since it's rare for us to meet." Tristan gestured for him to sit while he poured two cups of tea and handed one to his brother.Nathaniel accepted the cup and discreetly set it aside. Whenever he was out, he was always cautious about food and drink—this wariness had become second nature."You asked to meet me on short notice. Is this about official matters or something personal?" Tristan took a sip from his cup and got straight to the point."Both," Nathaniel replied, still smiling."Oh?" Tristan raised an eyebrow. "Let's hear it, then.""Given how things
In another luxurious mansion in the Inner City, a female spy dressed in black, cloaked in a hood, was reporting the results of her investigation to Nathaniel."Your Highness, the Moseys have been particularly active recently and are rallying allies. Many of the eight great families and other influential factions have already allied with them. If left unchecked, they'll pose a serious threat to us," she said, kneeling with her head lowered slightly."So the Moseys are backing Matthias, huh?" Nathaniel sat quietly, his expression unreadable."The Moseys have grand ambitions. While they claim to support Prince Matthias, they're merely setting him up as a puppet to rise to power and expand their own influence," she revealed.She had been infiltrating the Moseys' mansion for years and had gained a deep understanding of their operations, from the smallest details to the key players.Though Seamus appeared as a benevolent philanthropist, it was all a façade. Behind closed doors, he was r