An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

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.

“Look around West Lucozia. How many officials do you think are truly 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 really think you can kill

are as you say, then I’ll punish every single one. Does that answer satisfy you?”

negotiation today?” Warrick’s eyes narrowed

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

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

battlefield for years, winning every fight and crushing every enemy in my path. Do you know how

died down, Warrick sprang to his feet

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

the facade of civility shattered, Warrick no longer held back. To him, this arrogant young noble had no authority to judge

as “Your Highness”. But when he wasn’t, he wouldn’t hesitate to throw a punch.

you planning to rebel?”

what if

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

force crashed over the room. The temperature dropped sharply, and

team drew their blades. The hidden

while the other half formed a protective barrier in

I rode into battle alone and carved through enemy lines seven,