An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

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 to give the Ballard family some closure. Since this was a personal vendetta, it has nothing to do with us here in West Lucozia.”

“I see…” Warrick shot a meaningful glance at the people around him.

He thought to himself, “If I hadn’t personally disposed of the body, I might’ve actually believed your lies.”

“Sir Prescott, this was our oversight. You’ve been put in a difficult position, and to make it up to you, Lord Austin has prepared a banquet in your honor at the castle. He’d like to invite you to dine with him as an apology,” Axel said with a grin.

“Mr. Cruz, you’re being too modest. It’s only natural that I cooperated with the investigation at Lord Austin’s request. As for apologies, I don’t deserve any,”

Warrick replied coolly.

moment he was using threats and persuasion and the next second, he was hosting a

feels guilty. It’s just a meal, after all. Surely, you won’t refuse His Highness’ hospitality, right?”

“Since His Highness insists, it would be rude of

way please.” Axel smiled faintly and enthusiastically led

the scene. Seeing Warrick’s commanding presence and Axel’s overly warm demeanor, Percival frowned and unease

Mr. Prescott who just passed

guard on the left replied. ” The enforcement team is working to uncover the real murderer. Since Sir

that so?” Percival’s expression changed slightly, and his

up! Who permitted you to talk about this?” the guard on the right snapped. “If Lord Austin hears about

immediately lowered his

exchange, and his heart felt

Warrick, so why was he rewarded instead? What

mind, Percival followed the guards

center with an indifferent expression. Every movement carried an undeniable

stand before you

do you know why you’re here?”

me.” Percival lowered his head slightly, an uneasy feeling creeping over

are you just playing dumb?” Austin’s expression