An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Austin’s words were strong and commanding, each one landing like a thunderclap.

Warrick felt the weight of his presence. His brow furrowed for a moment, but he quickly regained his composure.

He glanced at the so-called evidence on the floor, showing no sign of panic or guilt. Instead, he said indifferently, “Your Highness, these dead men were nothing more than ants. Is this really worth making such a fuss over? I doubt you haven’t killed anyone before.”

As the old saying went, the higher one climbed, the heavier one’s purse. Warrick had clawed his way up, risking his life at every step for the sake of rising above the masses.

Everyone had their own desires-some sought fame, others fortune. Some were greedy for money, some for power, and others reveled in the adoration of the masses.

To achieve those things, one inevitably had to engage in shady dealings. It was an unspoken rule among officials, and Warrick saw nothing wrong with it.

“Ants?” Austin sneered. “Without these ‘ ants’ to support you, would you be living so comfortably? You threw your weight around like a petty despot. If you’re not stopped, others will follow your example.

And let me make one thing clear-while I

may have been idle in the past, I’ve never

taken innocent lives.”

“Your Highness, just because you haven’t done it doesn’t mean others can’t,”

Warrick replied coolly.

clean? If you investigate thoroughly, I guarantee at least 90% of high-ranking officials have dirt on their hands. By your logic, shouldn’t they all be executed? Do

you say, then I’ll punish every

today?” Warrick’s eyes narrowed slightly, and a glint of

had always been careful. Plus, he had already prepared an escape plan.

scoffed. “I didn’t call you here to negotiate.

for years, winning every fight and crushing every enemy in my path. Do you know how many have died under my command? Tens of thousands. And now you want me to confess to killing

down, Warrick sprang to his feet with a fierce look on

Austin Rhys! When I was out conquering lands for West Lucozia, you weren’t even born. You’re just a spoiled brat who grew up with a silver spoon in his mouth. What gives you the right to lecture me? If your father

longer held back. To

him as “Your Highness”. But when he wasn’t, he wouldn’t

planning to rebel?” Austin

if I

the floor cracked a foot deep beneath him. The entire meeting room trembled as a

crashed over the room. The temperature dropped

hidden troops stationed nearby noticed the commotion and rushed

the other half formed a protective barrier