“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 himself deeply angered as he witnessed the descendants of once- respected heroes being subjected to oppression. Their pleas even fell on deaf ears.
Even someone like Lucas, a general’s son, had not been spared from such hardship. This grim reality hinted at the broader suffering endured by ordinary people.
“Present-day West Lucozia isn’t the same as before.”
Lucas sighed.
He went on, “The prince is aging, and many matters slip beyond his direct control. Corrupt officials exploit this, and what seems prosperous on the surface conceals internal corruption. Incidents like these are becoming all too common.”
Dustin adopted a serious expression.
“Mr. Ashen, I can’t turn a blind eye when faced with such injustice. If you’re in trouble, speak up. I’ll ensure justice is served for you.” 1
Lucas paused, reflecting on his next words. While he could feel the determination radiating from the young person across from him, the apprehension of burdening them lingered heavily in his thoughts.
“Mr. Ashen, no need to worry. My friend wields considerable influence in West Lucozia. If you speak up, we can certainly help. But if you remain silent, we can’t assist. This is your only opportunity,” Grace reassured him.
Lucas nodded after some contemplation. With no other options, he felt compelled to take this chance. He hoped for some divine intervention in this memorial park encounter.
“Alright, I’ll talk.”
Lucas inhaled deeply before recounting the torment.
He continued, “Our trouble stems from Russo Vern, a profligate with strong ties to the influential Vern family. He’s backed by a group of privileged individuals, collectively forming the Hero Alliance. Their influence is unparalleled in the city, creating a reign of terror where no one dares to oppose them.”
He added, “Some time back, Russo fixated on my sister. He relentlessly pursued her for her hand in marriage. Faced with her resistance, he resorted to coercion and enticing tactics. Three days ago, my anger got the best of me as I witnessed Russo harassing my sister once more. I landed a punch.”
Lucas recounted, “That same night, he orchestrated an arson attack on our home. The flames claimed my mother’s life, and I endured a brutal beating. Worse, my sister was abducted and subjected to unspeakable humiliation. Her fate remains unknown. Russo even threatened that if I reported him and took legal action, my entire family would meet a grim end.”
“These people have abandoned all moral compasses!” he concluded, his eyes ablaze with fury and bitterness.
He detested Russo and his gang of oppressors. His sense of powerlessness intensified the pain of failing to shield his loved ones.
Grace, her countenance now icy with anger, remarked, “Committing murder, arson, and kidnapping innocent women-these villains know no bounds.”
Dustin’s expression turned notably grim as well. He approached Lucas with a determined demeanor. He then offered a helping hand to assist Lucas to his feet.
“Mr. Ashen, you can trust me. I’ll take care of this situation. I’ll ensure that these perpetrators face the consequences they’ve earned.”
