Chapter 712: The Feud (17) The Dispute

"We understand, Mr. Collins," the newsmen flattered. "And we sympathize with Mr. Balderston."

Rowan sighed heavily. "It's a tragedy," he said. "Melvin died without children. I'd made a pact with his father to ally our families. Unfortunately, my elder daughter, Sarah, was headstrong and chose another. My younger daughter was too young then. Now she's of marrying age, but Melvin is gone. It's a pity the Balderston family has no heir."

His sorrow deepened with each word. He played the grieving elder statesman to perfection, eliciting sympathetic responses and remarkable speeches from the assembled media.

A journalist, planted by the Collins family, seized the opportunity. "Mr. Collins," he asked, "now that Mr. Balderston is deceased and without heirs, and Mrs. Balderston is too distraught to manage family affairs, what will become of the Balderston political power? Could you offer some guidance?"

Rowan feigned surprise. "I've been too grief-stricken to consider it," he replied. "Everything is…in order, for now. We shall see."

Then, an important official spoke. "Our families have jointly ruled Northfield for generations. The Balderston family's predicament cannot be ignored; it affects half the country. Mr. Collins, please give this urgent consideration. The Balderston head is gone; chaos threatens Northfield. We understand your sorrow, but your country and its people need you to assume responsibility!"

The speech was compelling, bordering on forceful, effectively framing Rowan's intervention as a necessity and providing him with ample justification.

Oscar observed from a corner. If all went according to plan, Melvin would arrive in an hour, providing the perfect opportunity for Manuel and Laird to rescue Cian and Hannah. He swallowed nervously, trying to remain focused.

Rowan affected helplessness. "I, too, wish to assist the Balderston family in preserving its political influence, but the lack of an heir… it's a severe blow."

An official continued, "Many nations are ruled by a single ruling family. Northfield itself was once governed solely by the Wells family before the current power-sharing arrangement. The two families have governed well, and Northfield thrives. But now, with the Balderston leader deceased and without heirs, only you, Mr. Collins, are capable of ruling. You must assume the responsibility and unify both families. It's a heavy burden, but Northfield needs you."

Before Rowan could respond, another official seconded the motion for the unification of the families' power. Soon, a chorus of voices urged him to take up the mantle of leadership.

Most of the funeral attendees were Collins family members—a carefully orchestrated arrangement by Rowan to secure the Balderston family's political power with plausible pretext.

Under the weight of their pleas, Rowan nodded, appearing resigned. "I understand your concern, and the gravity of the situation. For years, both families have dedicated themselves to Northfield's progress. This tragedy demands the Collins family assume leadership of the entire country. I accept your request and will take full charge of the Balderston family."

His words were met with thunderous applause, more akin to an inauguration than a funeral. The mood was jubilant.

Then, a man entered—the Balderston family minister, playing his assigned role in Rowan's carefully constructed charade. His public surrender to the Collins family would solidify Rowan's claim to power. Rowan met his gaze with a tolerant smile.

"Mr. Collins," the minister said respectfully.

"Something you wish to say?" Rowan inquired.

"Yes."

"Please, speak freely," Rowan offered generously.

The minister's gaze hardened. "Mr. Collins, as the Balderston family minister, I express my gratitude for your acceptance of our family. We are fortunate to have such a great leader."

Rowan, outwardly pleased, maintained a serious demeanor. "It's my pleasure. I will do my utmost to support and care for the Balderston family. I hope you'll assist me."

"Mr. Collins, you are the only man fit to rule the country," the minister flattered. "I will dedicate myself to helping you manage the Balderston family now that Mr. Balderston—"

Rowan's face tightened. The minister’s words had created a dangerous tension.

"Mr. Balderston has passed away," a Collins official interjected sharply.

"Indeed?" the minister retorted. "How can you be certain the body is Mr. Balderston?"

"A DNA test was conducted, and Mrs. Balderston confirmed his identity."

The minister smiled cynically. "A DNA test? Then, please have Mrs. Balderston confirm to the media that the body is her son, Melvin Balderston."

"She's too distraught to speak."

"Inability or unwillingness?"

"Enough! This isn't the time for this," an official snapped. "It's time to mourn Mr. Balderston…"

"Mourning, or seizing power? Stop this charade," the minister scoffed, exposing the truth.