Dahlia was seen walking into the banquet hall slowly, dressed in a black evening gown. She stood out among the crowd, looking beautiful with her tall stature and poise. The moment she entered, she captured the attention of most people. There were looks of astonishment, delight, envy, and admiration. Some looks were even filled with desire. "Dahlia, I shouldn't have come with you. I put so much time and effort into my look, but everyone's attention is on you. It's like I don't exist." Julie looked upset. She expressed her frustration in a hushed tone. Hoping to catch the attention of prominent officials at the party, she meticulously planned her makeover. She also spent a fortune on her outfit. Her gown cost a hundred thousand dollars, while her jewelry was worth millions. Yet, she had become Dahlia's accessory as she stood beside her, going unnoticed. Julie wasn't ugly, but Dahlia was just too pretty. Dahlia overshadowed all women. It seemed like only Natasha could rival her
Dahlia frowned deeply, her face full of worry. "That won't do. I need to save him!" She turned around as if ready to leave the party immediately."Dahlia!" Julie grabbed her arm and tried to reason with her, "Just how are you going to help? Azkaban has the tightest security there is. No one is able to leave after getting in. If you try anything recklessly, you might get into trouble yourself!""What should I do then? I can't just let him face those charges." Dahlia was anxious. She was aware that Azkaban was a dangerous place. The longer someone stayed there, the more they would suffer. "Don't worry just yet. Isn't Mr. Killian here?" Julie turned her attention toward Gavin and said, "Mr. Killian has wide connections and is a prominent figure. It should be easy for him to get someone released from Azkaban.""Mr. Killian?" Dahlia's gaze landed on Gavin, full of hope."Azkaban is considered a no man's land. Even the military doesn't have a say in that area." Gavin rubbed his chi
Julian was surprised when he saw Dustin walking through the doors. "No way, they released him that early?" Julian had thought Gavin was just joking. He didn't expect him to actually send someone to get Dustin out. The problem was Gavin had used his connections to send Dustin to prison. And now Dustin was somehow released. It seemed like some kind of joke. Even if he wanted to impress the ladies, he didn't have to make it that complicated. "That's weird. How did he get out?" Gavin frowned slightly, equally astonished. He knew very well that he never instructed his men to contact Azkaban's warden. The timing didn't add up, either. Dustin must have been released much earlier. The most puzzling aspect was that Azkaban was notorious for being a one-way journey. How could someone so insignificant manage to escape? Did a powerful figure help him out? "Mr. Killian, you're incredible! You got Dustin released with just a simple call." Julie gave him a thumbs up, her expression fill
Gavin Killian was the young master of the Killians from Oakvale. He was also a military general who had an enormous influence in Millsburg. Dustin could lose his life for raising a hand against such a prominent figure. "Dustin, you ungrateful brat! Mr. Killian should have just let you rot in Azkaban!" Julie was furious at Dustin for repaying Gavin's kindness with enmity."How bold. Do you know the consequences of hitting me?" Gavin rubbed his burning cheek as his expression grew dark. He had never been slapped in public, ever. "So what if I hit you? You imprisoned me. That was a well-deserved slap," Dustin spat out coldly. Dahlia frowned. "Nonsense. It was clearly Mr. Killian who saved you!" "He saved me? Hah!" Dustin scoffed. "He was the one who put me in there. I wouldn't have ended up inside if it wasn't for his scheming.""I don't understand what you mean." Gavin narrowed his eyes."Do you not understand, or are you pretending not to?" Dustin sneered. "Did you think you
"What?" Dustin touched his burning cheek. He looked at Dahlia in disbelief. He never imagined she would slap him in public for the sake of someone she had just met. It felt like a stab to his heart. "I …" Dahlia was at a loss for words as she looked at her hand. Regret had filled her immediately after the act. The situation was urgent, and she had acted on impulse. Gavin was a powerful general in the army, and Dustin would have faced dire consequences if he had hurt him."You actually hit me?" Dustin furrowed his brow. "You hit me for a stranger?""Dustin, calm down. I did it for your own good," Dahlia tried to explain."Calm down?" Dustin's lips formed into a wry smile. His disappointment was evident in his eyes. "Dahlia Nicholson, how am I supposed to calm down? I made myself very clear. Gavin set me up and is playing the good guy in front of you. Can you please open up your eyes and look clearly?" Dahlia's frown deepened. "Enough! Mr. Killian is a righteous person. He cou
At that moment, a group of heavily armed soldiers stormed into the hall. They carried loaded guns and exuded a menacing posture. They had Dustin surrounded as soon as they entered, pointing their barrels directly at him. Ready to shoot on command. "Mr. Killian, don't hurt him!" Dahlia cried out."Since Ms. Nicholson has spoken, naturally, I'd have to give in." Gavin smiled as he wiped the blood off the corners of his lips. He waved dismissively. "Back off, let him go.""Yes, sir!" The soldiers answered and dispersed into two teams. Their movements were organized, and they were clearly well-trained. Dustin turned around and glanced coldly at them before walking straight out the door. When he left the hotel, a light drizzle started to fall. The cold wind brought a chill, mirroring his current emotions. At that moment, a silver Bently screeched to a stop at the entrance. Natasha got out of the car, her expression evident with joy. "Dear, are you all right? I was so scared when
Natasha was seething with rage. She knew how sincere Dustin's feelings were for Dahlia. It even made her envious.But Dahlia not only took it for granted, she also resorted to violence. How could she be so foolish? Natasha had reached her limit today. Dahlia could raise her hand against anyone but her man. "Forget it, Natasha. Let's go. I have nothing else to say," Dustin said impassively. "Hmph! Reflect on your actions!" Natasha sneered and got in the car before speeding away. "How did it come to this? How?" Dahlia muttered to herself as she watched the tail lights disappear. She was lost and disoriented. Although she acted impulsively earlier, she was just preventing Dustin from making another big mistake. Why did nobody understand her? What exactly did she do wrong? "Dahlia, what are you doing out here? It's cold. Let's go back in." Julie had rushed out after her. She wrapped a coat around her to keep her warm. "Julie, do you think I was wrong?" Dahlia asked, still look
The red handprint on Dustin's cheek hadn't faded away. Dustin smiled as he replied, "No.""Your cheek might not be hurting, but your heart is hurting, right?" Natasha raised an eyebrow. "Since it's come to this, you should just let her go. Why torture yourself like that? I'll take care of you instead. Wouldn't that be great?""I'm a grown man. I can't just rely on a woman for a living, don't you think?" Dustin scratched his head."So what if you rely on a woman for a living? That takes skill too!" Natasha extended a slender finger and raised Dustin's chin. She smirked and teased, "Besides, with your looks, it'd be a waste not to rely on a woman. You're just my type. Why don't you clean yourself up tonight and warm up my bed?The corners of Dustin's lips twitched. Why did it feel like a pervert was flirting with him?"How about it? Have you made up your mind? Are we going to your place or mine?" Natasha smiled at him seductively. Dustin wanted so badly to taste her rosy lips.
Night had fallen. Austin sat in the meeting room, quietly reading a book as he waited for the results of the investigation.After successfully turning Percival against his allies, it was only a matter of time before they uncovered solid evidence of Warrick and Huxley's crimes.For years, the castle had turned a blind eye to their shady dealings. After all, corruption among officials was nothing new.But this time was different. The two had secretly orchestrated Jovian's murder, a direct challenge to the authority and dignity of the royal family. Such defiance couldn't be ignored. If Austin didn't set an example, others would surely follow."Your Highness!"Axel burst into the meeting room, panting heavily. He had clearly run the whole way to avoid any delay.Austin set his book aside and asked calmly, "Well? How did it go?""Your Highness, we've completely shut down all of Warrick and Huxley's illicit operations. Every hidden network they had built over the years has also been d
At that moment, Percival truly panicked. Earlier, he had only worried about being implicated. But now, faced with such a serious accusation, he was completely caught off guard."Hmph! The evidence is irrefutable, and you still dare deny it? Do you want me to torture the truth out of you?" Austin barked."Your Highness, I'm innocent!" Percival was so terrified he was on the verge of tears. He raised his hand and swore, "If I had anything to do with Jovian's death, may I be damned for eternity.""If swearing oaths proved innocence, we wouldn't need an enforcement team," Austin said coldly. "Out of respect for your years of service to West Lucozia, I'll give you a chance to come clean and receive a lighter sentence. Tell the truth now, or I'll throw you into Grimhold Keep."At the mention of Grimhold Keep, Percival began to shake uncontrollably. Tears and snot ran down his face as he wailed, "Your Highness, I swear I didn't do anything. Who's the bastard making up these accusations?
Ten minutes later, Warrick was escorted out of Room A1 again.Axel's demeanor had completely changed since their first meeting, and he had become unusually warm."Sir Prescott, Lord Austin has concluded the investigation. It turns out this matter has nothing to do with you. We made a mistake earlier, and I apologize for any offense caused." He smiled apologetically and spoke with a humble tone."Hm?" Seeing the fawning expression on Axel's face, Warrick raised an eyebrow and looked surprised. Just moments ago, the two sides had been at each other's throats. What had caused such a sudden change?"Did you really investigate it thoroughly?" Warrick asked tentatively."Of course! According to our findings, Jovian's disappearance was the result of a personal vendetta from his enemies in Oakvale," Axel said with a straight face.He continued, "He was a tyrant and always stirring up trouble everywhere he went. He got what was coming to him. Lord Austin only launched the investigation
"After you, Sir Prescott." With one hand resting on the hilt of his sword, Axel's other hand gestured toward the door."Hmph!" Warrick shot a cold glance at Axel's subtle movement and then turned to leave the meeting room.Even if Austin had his suspicions, Warrick knew he couldn't do anything to him without concrete evidence.Axel escorted Warrick back to Room A1. After closing the door, he went to Room A2 and led Huxley to the meeting room."Your Highness, it is my privilege to stand before you." Huxley entered the meeting room with a respectful salute."Mr. Thatcher, please take a seat." Austin's face remained neutral as he gestured for Huxley to sit, then motioned for Axel to pour him a cup of tea."Do you know why I've summoned you here today?" Austin spoke calmly, and his words carried the same probing tone as earlier."Is it about Jovian's disappearance?" Huxley asked in return."Oh? It seems you're quick on the uptake." Austin raised an eyebrow. "In that case, g
The enforcement team worked with remarkable efficiency. Within an hour, Huxley, Warrick, and Percival had been brought back to the castle.Per Austin's instructions, Axel made sure the three met briefly upon arrival, though they were given no opportunity to speak to one another. Afterward, they were taken to separate rooms and were guarded individually.Due to their status, the enforcement team treated them with respect, offering them tea and wine. However, they weren't allowed to leave their rooms and had to wait for Austin to summon them.Warrick was confined to Room A1, Huxley to Room A2, and Percival to Room A3. Their rooms were right next to each other, separated only by thin walls. If they stepped out, they would see one another, but none of them knew how close they were.This, of course, was all part of Austin's plan. He knew that extracting the truth from these three cunning foxes would require unconventional tactics.…Inside Room A1, Warrick sat calmly, sipping his te
"Hm?"Even Warrick frowned at the news.The royal enforcement team was rarely mobilized. When they did, it was always for something monumental. The question was, did a minor figure like Jovian Ballard really warrant such attention from Austin?"Mr. Thatcher, are you sure the royal enforcement team has been mobilized? And it's because of Jovian?" Warrick asked skeptically."Of course I'm sure," Huxley replied with a grave expression. "I've just received orders from above. The enforcement team captain will be taking over my duties temporarily. From now on, they'll have full control over the city's defense and investigative operations.""That's strange. Why would Lord Austin go to such lengths for someone so insignificant?" Warrick was confused, his brow furrowing.According to his intel, this was the first time Jovian and Austin had even met. Even if they had crossed paths before, it shouldn't have been enough to justify deploying the enforcement team.It seemed Warrick had undere
The next morning, after breakfast at the West Lucozian castle, Austin tried calling Jovian. However, his calls went unanswered. After several attempts, he still couldn't get through."Huh?" Austin was puzzled. They had made plans the previous day to head to Oakvale that day. Why was Jovian suddenly unreachable? Had he stood Austin up?After thinking it over, he found that unlikely. He and Jovian had gotten along well and even called each other brothers. On top of that, they had promised to travel together and watch out for one another.If Jovian had an urgent matter that required him to leave West Lucozia, he would have at least given Austin a heads-up. Jovian wouldn't just disappear without a word."Could something have happened to him?" Austin's unease grew. He quickly summoned his trusted aide. "Go find out where Jovian is. Report back to me as soon as you have any information.""Yes, Your Highness," the aide replied before hurrying off.Austin poured himself a cup of tea
A dull sound echoed through the air.Jovian's body shuddered. Blood streamed from his eyes, ears, and nose as he crumpled to the ground, lifeless. He was dead. After fighting to his last breath, he had chosen the only honorable way out.The scene had left even the assassins, who were no strangers to bloodshed, momentarily stunned. Taking one's own life so decisively wasn't something just anyone could do. Even the lowest of creatures had the instinct to cling to life, let alone a human being."This guy… He's ruthless," Ronan muttered, and his face darkened.Warrick had given strict orders to capture Jovian alive, but now he was dead. Now, Ronan had no way to deliver. If he had known it would come to this, he would have personally intervened to kill Jovian first."What now, boss?" one of the assassins asked."Clean up the scene," Ronan ordered. "I'll take the body back myself." With that, he hoisted Jovian's body onto his shoulder, tossed it into the vehicle, and drove off.…W
The sounds of battle echoed under the streetlights. Shouts of pain mixed with the clash of weapons could be heard. Five figures were locked in a deadly struggle, and blood splattered across the ground.The fight raged for nearly half an hour until the noise gradually subsided. The five figures lay motionless in pools of blood.Under the dim glow of the streetlights, three of the black-clad assassins were confirmed dead. One's neck was snapped, another's chest pierced, and the last had bled out from a fatal wound.Jovian and Boston were in no better condition.Boston was soaked in blood. His body was riddled with deep cuts, some so severe they exposed the bone beneath.Jovian wasn't much better. His abdomen and shoulder were slashed. His right arm had been severed, and he was left in a pitiful state.Boston coughed. After taking down the last assassin, he collapsed to the ground. He gasped for air as blood poured from his mouth. His chest and abdomen were torn open, and his orga