An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“Langdon, I can’t tell if you’re playing dumb or if you really are that stupid.”

Though Austin was smiling, his eyes were cold.

He continued, “You asked for physical evidence, and I provided it. You asked for witnesses, and I gave you those too. Now, with both evidence and testimony laid bare, and even the criminal confessing, what else do you want?”

“Hmph! The government is rife with corruption. I’m simply seeking justice and preventing you from wrongfully killing the innocent.” Langdon still held his righteous stance.

Some of the royal advisors who had initially supported him now stayed silent. They could sense Austin’s rising anger and didn’t dare provoke him further.

At that instant, they had lost their confidence. As Austin had pointed out, the solid evidence was right before them, and it was impossible to deny.

Langdon was a member of the Rhys family and Austin’s elder. He could afford to speak without a filter, but the others couldn’t.

If they truly angered Austin, the consequences would be severe at best, their properties being confiscated and at worst, their entire bloodline wiped out. After all, Austin had already imprisoned Huxley and Percival. What chance did they, mere minor players, have?

“Innocent? You? Or them?” Austin’s gaze swept over Langdon and the gathered advisors. His killing intent was barely concealed. “Looks to me like none of you have clean hands.”

“What are you implying? First, you falsely accuse these officials, and now you want to come after us too?” Langdon raised his chin to project an image of unshakable righteousness.

The other advisors, however, avoided Austin’s gaze and were too afraid to speak.

family name, I’ll give you one last

breath to suppress his

today ever happened. All the unpleasantness of today will be forgotten. But if you continue to stir up trouble, don’t blame me for

not even to a punk like you. Even if Prince Rufus himself walked in here, I’d still hold my

suddenly clapped, and a grin spread across his face. Since you’re so upright, let’s see if

barked, “Axel! Take the enforcement team and search Langdon’s manor immediately. I have reason to suspect him of corruption

Highness,” Axel responded crisply before

had disliked Langdon for a long time. To him, Langdon was nothing

Now, Axel was determined to turn Langdon’s home upside down during this

abusing your

“I haven’t broken any laws or committed any crimes. On what grounds

I run this castle. Is that reason enough for you?” Austin

not you. If you overstep, I’ll go straight to him and

and report me.” Austin was unfazed. “I’m eager to see what

Langdon was at a loss

Langdon wanted to

on the move. If Langdon didn’t stop them soon, they might uncover something

this time.

ultimately gave in and prepared to leave with the other royal advisors. But as he turned toward