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.

for the Rhys family name, I’ll give you one

took a deep breath to suppress

now and stop causing trouble, I’ll forget today ever happened. All the unpleasantness of today will be forgotten. But if you continue to stir

with honor, and I don’t bow to anyone’s threats – not even to a punk like

you the picture of integrity?” Austin suddenly clapped, and a grin spread across his face. Since you’re so upright, let’s see if there’s any dirt

Take the enforcement team and search Langdon’s manor immediately. I have reason to suspect him

responded crisply before

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

shown them patience, but Langdon had only grown bolder. Now, Axel was determined

Y-You’re abusing

any laws or committed

castle. Is that

has authority over the castle, not you. If you

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

at a

gone into seclusion, and even if Langdon wanted to complain, he

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

this time. Let’s

for a moment but ultimately gave in and prepared to leave with the other royal advisors. But as he turned toward the door, they were stopped by a group of