An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Night had fallen. Austin sat in the meeting room, quietly reading a book as he waited for the results of the investigation.

After successfully turning Percival against his allies, it was only a matter of time before they uncovered solid evidence of Warrick and Huxley’s crimes.

For years, the castle had turned a blind eye to their shady dealings. After all, corruption among officials was nothing new.

But this time was different. The two had secretly orchestrated Jovian’s murder, a direct challenge to the authority and dignity of the royal family. Such defiance couldn’t be ignored. If Austin didn’t set an example, others would surely follow.

“Your Highness!”

Axel burst into the meeting room, panting heavily. He had clearly run the whole way to avoid any delay.

Austin set his book aside and asked calmly, “Well? How did it go?”

“Your Highness, we’ve completely shut down all of Warrick and Huxley’s illicit operations. Every hidden network they had built over the years has also been dismantled,” Axel reported.

He went on, “We’ve also gathered extensive evidence of their crimes. Every offense is documented in detail. Please take a look, Your Highness.”

He handed over a thick stack of documents with both hands.

Austin took it and started flipping through the pages. After reading just two, his expression darkened.

to be corrupt, but seeing the full extent of their atrocities made his blood boil. They had abused their power, committing murder, theft, and countless other

hundreds of deaths, and that was only what had been uncovered. There were likely even more that had gone unrecorded. Worse, their families were just as guilty, using their influence to oppress and

corruption had been festering

bastards…. Their crimes are unforgivable-no punishment could ever

Austin angrily threw them to the floor.

listed were more than enough to

just give the order, and I’ll lead the enforcement team to

with a shred of decency would have been outraged after reading that

justice, but first, I need to get some answers out of them,” Austin said, struggling to contain his anger.

Highness,” Axel replied

he returned

confined in the castle all day, Huxley was clearly restless. His irritation showed, and his attitude toward Austin was

Highness, I have pressing matters at home to attend to. When will

scoffed coldly. “You won’t be going anywhere

do you mean by that?” Huxley frowned. “I’ve always followed the law and never crossed you. Why are

law? You’ve got some nerve saying that with a

you’re biased against me, Your Highness, but I’m not holding it against you. Accusations need evidence. If you have proof, show me. Otherwise, let me go and quit abusing your power.” Huxley spoke

evidence? Well, I’ve been waiting for you to