An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“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.

the Rhys family name,

deep breath to suppress his

men leave 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 up trouble, don’t blame me for what comes

Are you threatening me?” Langdon scoffed. “I’ve lived my life with honor, and I don’t bow to anyone’s threats – not even to a punk like you. Even if Prince Rufus himself walked in here, I’d still hold my ground

the picture of integrity?” Austin suddenly clapped, and a grin spread across his face. Since you’re so

team and search Langdon’s manor immediately. I

Axel responded crisply before

a long time. To him, Langdon was nothing more than a troublemaker who thrived on

only grown bolder. Now, Axel was

Y-You’re abusing your

and shouted, “I haven’t broken any laws or committed any crimes. On

I run this castle. Is that reason enough for you?” Austin replied

has authority over the castle, not you. If you overstep, I’ll

me.” Austin was unfazed. “I’m eager

Langdon was at

wanted to complain, he wouldn’t

was already on the move. If Langdon didn’t stop them soon,

win this time.

and prepared to leave with the other royal advisors. But as he turned toward the door, they were stopped by a