An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“Are you even qualified to sit while speaking to me?”

Austin’s words struck like the blow of a hammer. They were sharp and unrelenting, and they left no room for retort.

Langdon sat frozen and was momentarily speechless. He hadn’t expected a brat like Austin to have such a sharp tongue.

If he admitted he had come for personal matters, he would keep his pride intact, but he would lose control of the conversation. Everything he had prepared -and all the accusations he meant to throw-would be meaningless.

But if he insisted it was official business, he would have to show proper respect and offer a formal greeting. No matter how he answered, he would be conceding ground.

“I’ll ask one more time. Are you here on official or personal matters?” Austin asked coldly.

“O-Official matters.” Cornered, Langdon barely managed to get the words out.

“Well? Is this how an official conducts himself?” Austin pressed.

Langdon had no choice but to rise and offer a deep bow. “Your Highness, it’s an honor to stand before you.”

The other royal advisors quickly followed suit, and their earlier arrogance vanished as they stood and paid their respects.

Axel watched the shift unfold and couldn’t hide his admiration.

reputation. He was sharp-witted and strategic. With just a few words, he had these cunning officials

serious.

moment, Austin was cold and distant, but the

have a seat. Don’t

Austin changed his attitude, Langdon and the other royal advisors

Your Highness. I’ll just stand.” Langdon’s face was grim, and his

had been in government for years, but never expected to be outplayed by

you wish, Uncle

down casually, then looked at Langdon with a wry

began, but he found himself at a loss

Austin. But after being thrown off

eyebrow. “Cat got your tongue, Uncle

and gathered his thoughts. “Your Highness, the city is under lockdown, and people are in a panic. I must ask-what exactly has happened to warrant such

issued an official notice this morning, and everything is

” What notice?

own affairs, so it’s understandable if you missed it,” Austin

the conversation veering off track, Langdon quickly interjected, “Forget the notice. Just tell me what crime did Sir Prescott commit that justifies this chaos? Did you really need to turn the entire

mistake, does that justify confiscating his properties and sentencing him to death?” one royal

here, he wouldn’t stand for this recklessness, nor would he allow you