An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

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.

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

of deaths, and that was only what had been uncovered. There were likely even

had been festering beneath the grandeur of the West

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

documents, Austin angrily threw them to the floor. His face darkened

the crimes listed were more

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

shred of decency would have been outraged

Austin said,

replied and

after, he returned with Huxley in

was clearly restless. His irritation showed, and his attitude

I have pressing matters at home to attend to. When will I be allowed to leave?”

“You won’t

always followed the law and never crossed you. Why are you targeting

law? You’ve got some nerve saying that with a straight face,”

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 with

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