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.

was sharp-witted and strategic. With just a few words, he

so serious. I was

cold and distant, but the next, he was warm

have a seat.

how quickly Austin changed his attitude, Langdon and the

wouldn’t dare, 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 Austin,

wish, Uncle

down casually, then looked at Langdon with a wry smile. “So,

began, but he found himself at a

and was ready to denounce Austin. But after being thrown off balance, that fire had all but sputtered out. Now, he couldn’t even

raised an eyebrow.

people are in a panic. I must ask-what exactly has happened to warrant such drastic

issued an official notice this morning, and everything is clearly stated there. Did none of

” What notice? Why

busy with your own affairs, so it’s understandable if you missed it,” Austin said evenly. “I’ll have copies delivered to your homes later

Just tell me what crime did Sir Prescott commit that justifies this chaos? Did you really need to turn the entire city upside

for West Lucozia. Even if he made a mistake, does that justify confiscating his properties and

this recklessness, nor would