An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

At the crack of dawn, within the grandeur of West Lucozia Castle’s central hall, Rufus draped himself in a robe adorned with the sinuous coils of a serpent.

The stoic captain of the royal guard was seated at the epicenter with his left guarded by Jaxon. And on his right stood Albert, a figure more known as the Executioner than by his given name.

The harsh brilliance of overhead lights illuminated Rufus as he meticulously sifted through the abundance of letters strewn across the table.

Each missive held revelations from the covert efforts of the castle’s undercover agents. These written accounts unfolded tales of bloodshed, and the table groaned under the weight of hundreds of letters.

The damning dossier was evidence exposing both the Vern and Linden families, even their shared history of criminal exploits.

Rufus delved deeper into these missives, concern etched lines on his forehead. The unveiled misdeeds within his jurisdiction

Your Highness, a moment’s respite would be wise. Your well-being is paramount,” Albert suggested. His

How can I, when faced with such matters?” Rufus slammed his hand on the table, his countenance

Ambrose have been bold, exploiting their influence and deceiving even me! They’ve

has stirred such anger?” Eloise, the demure princess consort of West Lucozia, entered the

yourself!” Rufus tossed the letters toward her. Eloise picked them up and

Vern’s misdeeds?” Eloise cautiously

but Ambrose’s as well!” Rufus pushed the

the law, and committed

the evidence I’ve gathered. Their

her brow. “Your Highness, Reuben and Ambrose have served you for many years, and there’s never been

my own undercover