An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2463

Chapter 2463

The law enforcement team worked swiftly. Within an hour, they had all three men back at the palace.

Upon arrival, Austin requested a brief meeting with them, and Manuel allowed it—but without letting them speak. Shortly after, they were taken to separate rooms and placed under guard.

Given their high-ranking status, the law enforcement team refrained from using force. Instead, they were treated with tea and wine. However, they were confined to their rooms, unable to leave until Austin summoned them.

Cardinal Dragon Marshal was placed under house arrest in Room No. 1, the City Guard Commander in Room No. 2, and the Grand Secretary of Dragon Pavilion in Room No. 3. The rooms were adjacent, separated only by walls. They could see each other when stepping outside but remained unaware of each other’s presence.

This arrangement was intentional. Austin knew that getting the truth out of these cunning old foxes would require special tactics.

Room No. 1, Block A

Cardinal Dragon Marshal sipped his tea, unfazed. He had anticipated being questioned by the young prince and had prepared accordingly. Without concrete evidence, Austin couldn’t touch him.

To him, this was just a formality.

Room No. 2, Block A

The City Guard Commander remained equally composed, as if this had nothing to do with him.

The assassin had already left West Lucozia, and Tobias’s body had been burned. No matter how thoroughly the law enforcement team searched, they would find no trace of evidence.

Besides, he had already coordinated with Cardinal Dragon Marshal. As long as they kept silent and denied everything, the storm would pass.

Even if Austin was of noble status, he couldn’t convict them without solid proof. Doing so would only spark public outrage.

Room No. 3, Block A

Unlike the other two, the Grand Secretary of Dragon Pavilion was restless. The white-haired official paced the room, carrying his child on his back, his face clouded with worry.

Although he hadn’t directly participated in Tobias’s murder, he was aware of what had happened. Worse, he had dined with Tobias the night before his disappearance. That alone was enough to make him a suspect.

His greatest fear was that Austin might believe he was responsible for the murder. If that happened, things could take a dangerous turn.

“Why did I have to get caught up in this mess?” he thought bitterly.

If he had known things would escalate, he would have steered clear of the situation. Now, with Austin furious and the law enforcement team mobilized, any discovery could seal his fate.

After all, he had been an official for years—and he had his fair share of skeletons in the closet.

Meanwhile, in a secret chamber, Austin sat silently, watching the three men on a surveillance screen.

Cardinal Dragon Marshal and the City Guard Commander were too calm—unnaturally so.

No one taken in by law enforcement should be this composed. There were only two possibilities: either they were innocent, or they had nothing to fear.

Austin’s eyes narrowed.

“Bring in Cardinal Dragon Marshal first,” he ordered.

“Yes, Your Highness!”

Manuel, standing behind him, bowed and left quickly. Austin rose from his seat and made his way to the meeting room through a hidden passage.

Moments later, Cardinal Dragon Marshal entered, escorted by Manuel.

“This humble general greets the young prince,” he said, clasping his fists in salute.

“Sit,” Austin replied with a nod.

“Thank you, Your Highness.” Cardinal Dragon Marshal settled into his seat, his expression unshaken.

Manuel quietly poured tea, keeping his presence minimal.

It was said that Cardinal Dragon Marshal had mastered Iron Courage Kung Fu to such an extent that he could behead an enemy general in the midst of thousands. A man of such strength would be a formidable threat if he ever turned against them.

Austin leaned forward. “General, do you know why I called you here?”

“I do not. Please enlighten me, Your Highness,” Cardinal Dragon Marshal replied evenly.

Austin’s gaze sharpened. “A friend of mine disappeared last night. I suspect he was murdered, and I’m investigating the culprit. Tell me, General—do you know anything about this?”

Cardinal Dragon Marshal raised an eyebrow. “Your Highness, are you implying that I had something to do with it?”

Austin’s voice turned cold. “According to my investigation, my friend met with you last night. After that, he vanished. Do you have anything to say about that?”

The general didn’t flinch. “Your Highness, I am a man of integrity. I would never stoop to such underhanded deeds. Besides, Tobias and I had no conflict—why would I kill him?”

Austin’s expression darkened. “I never mentioned his name. How did you know my missing friend was Tobias?”

For a brief moment, Cardinal Dragon Marshal faltered, but he quickly recovered. “Your Highness, the only person I met last night who was also close to you was Tobias. Who else could you be referring to?”

Austin let out a low chuckle. “It seems you’ve done your homework, General.” His tone grew razor-sharp. “You know me well. If you confess now, I might spare your life. But if you continue to resist… don’t blame me for being ruthless.”

Cardinal Dragon Marshal met his gaze, unwavering. “If I am guilty, I will accept punishment. But without proof, convicting me would be a grave injustice. The soldiers of West Lucozia will not stand for it.”

Austin’s lips curled into a smirk. “Very well. Since you want to play this game, I’ll play with you until the end.” He waved his hand.

“Take him away. Bring in the City Guard Commander.”