An Understated Dominance (Maria Vittori) novel Chapter 1749

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 expression.

Upon returning to his homeland a decade later, he found that everything had changed. Even if he returned to the castle now, he wouldn’t be able to recognize the people in it.

“I have to say, your father is truly remarkable.”

Grace sighed, reminiscing about the tales.

She added, “I’ve heard from my father that West Lucozia was a barren land over 20 years ago. Plagued by constant warfare, the people here were suffering back then. It was a vast, empty space, with famine and hardship everywhere. Then Rufus, the Prince of West Lucozia, appeared, and everything changed.”

She went on, “Rufus was born into the prestigious families of Oakvale and displayed extraordinary military talent from a young age. Upon joining the military, he achieved remarkable feats. He remained undefeated in countless battles. He was often hailed as unparalleled and earned titles and honors at a young age. He was destined to be a prominent figure once he returned to Oakvale.”

She continued, “However, no one could have predicted the shocking decision made by this almost godlike man. He chose to settle in the wild and chaotic West Lucozia, guarding the border.

During that period, West Lucozia suffered as a wild and desolate region. It grappled with militant leaders, internal conflicts, and recurring invasions by hostile savages. No one among the civil and military officials in the court was willing to tackle this chaotic situation. Yet, Rufus chose to do so.”

Grace recalled, “Settling in West Lucozia with only 300 guards, within a short span of three years, he subjugated all the militant leaders’ forces across the 18 cities in West Lucozia. When the news reached Oakvale, it caused a sensation. No one knew how Rufus accomplished such a seemingly impossible task. From that point on, he began recruiting soldiers and forming his first army, the Black Dragon Army.”

She went on, “Initially underestimated, the Black Dragon Army shocked everyone in their first battle against the western savages. With just eight thousand West Lucozian cavalry, Rufus routed a staggering two hundred thousand savages’ army. This marked a spectacular beginning.”

She added, “Over the next decade, the western savages attempted multiple invasions. They engaged in numerous battles against the Black Dragon Army. The most iconic battle was when Rufus led a hundred thousand cavalry, chasing down five hundred thousand of the savages’ army, crossing borders, and conquering 15 cities before reaching the gates of the savages’ chieftain palace.”