An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2465

Chapter 2465

Ten minutes later, Cardinal Dragon Marshal was once again asked to leave Room No. 1.

However, this time, Manuel’s attitude had taken a complete 180-degree turn—he was now overly enthusiastic.

“General, the young prince has completed his investigation. This matter has nothing to do with you. It was a misunderstanding on our part. Please accept our apologies for any offense.” Manuel smiled apologetically, his demeanor noticeably humble.

“Hmm?” Cardinal Dragon Marshal raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised by Manuel’s sudden change in attitude.

Not long ago, they had been on the brink of a confrontation. Now, Manuel was all smiles—what had changed?

“Are you certain about the investigation’s findings?” Cardinal Dragon Marshal asked, his tone probing.

“Absolutely! Our investigation confirmed that Tobias’s disappearance was due to revenge from his enemies in Oakvale,” Manuel explained seriously. “That man was arrogant and reckless, making enemies everywhere. His fate was inevitable. The young prince pursued the matter rigorously only to provide the Ballard family with an explanation out of courtesy. Since it was a personal vendetta in Oakvale, it has nothing to do with us in West Lucozia.”

“I see…” Cardinal Dragon Marshal glanced around, taking in the expressions of those nearby.

Inwardly, he smirked. If I hadn’t personally disposed of the body, I might have actually believed them.

“General, we regret the inconvenience this has caused you. To make amends, the young prince has arranged a banquet in your honor,” Manuel said with a smile.

“General St-Onge, you’re too kind,” Cardinal Dragon Marshal replied calmly. “The young prince merely asked for my cooperation in the investigation, which was a reasonable request. There’s no need for an apology.”

Still, he couldn’t help but wonder—why the sudden shift in Austin’s attitude?

First, they had used threats and coercion. Now, they were offering a warm reception. What was really going on?

“No matter what, the young prince feels responsible,” Manuel insisted. “It’s just a meal, General. You won’t refuse us, will you?”

Cardinal Dragon Marshal hesitated for a moment before finally nodding. “Since the young prince has extended the invitation, I won’t decline.”

“Excellent! This way, please!” Manuel beamed as he led Cardinal Dragon Marshal away with enthusiasm.

Unbeknownst to them, this entire exchange was witnessed by the Grand Secretary of Dragon Pavilion.

Watching the towering figure of Cardinal Dragon Marshal and the eagerness in Manuel’s behavior, the Grand Secretary couldn’t help but frown. A sense of unease settled over him.

“Excuse me, was that Cardinal Dragon Marshal just now?” he asked a nearby royal guard.

“Yes,” the guard on the left confirmed. “The law enforcement team is investigating the true culprit, and the general provided critical information. As a result, the young prince is hosting a grand banquet in his honor tonight.”

“Is that so?” The Grand Secretary’s expression shifted slightly, his unease growing.

“Quiet!” the guard on the right snapped in a low voice. “If the young prince finds out you’re discussing this, he’ll have your tongue!”

The guard on the left paled and immediately lowered his head, falling silent.

The Grand Secretary took in their reactions, and the weight in his chest deepened.

Tobias’s death was clearly linked to Cardinal Dragon Marshal…

So how did he end up being praised for reporting it?

What’s really happening here?

With these thoughts swirling in his mind, the Grand Secretary, accompanied by two personal guards, made his way into the conference room.

Inside, Austin sat in the center, his expression unreadable. Though he remained still, his presence radiated an overwhelming pressure.

The Grand Secretary bowed deeply. “Your humble servant greets the young prince.”

Austin’s voice was calm but firm. “Grand Secretary, do you know why you’re here?”

“I do not, Your Highness. Please enlighten me,” the Grand Secretary replied, keeping his head lowered.

“Are you truly unaware? Or are you just playing dumb?” Austin’s tone remained cold, unreadable.

“My humble servant—”

Before the Grand Secretary could finish, a loud crash echoed through the room. A teacup shattered at his feet, sending shards and hot tea splashing onto his legs.

He flinched, his body trembling. Looking up, he met Austin’s icy, murderous gaze.

“You’d better tell me the truth,” Austin warned. “If you lie to me, don’t expect our past friendship to save you!”

Cold sweat broke out on the Grand Secretary’s forehead. Panic surged within him. “Young Prince, please calm down. I am old, and my memory fails me at times. If I have offended you in any way, I beg your forgiveness.”

“Enough!” Austin took a step forward, towering over him. His voice turned razor-sharp.

“A formal report has accused you by name of murdering Tobias and destroying the evidence. You had the audacity to touch my guests. Are you tired of living?”

The Grand Secretary’s face drained of color. His knees buckled, and he collapsed to the floor with a heavy thud.

“Your Highness! This is a grave injustice!” he wailed. “I have served as an official for decades. I may have accepted bribes, but I have never taken a life! Someone must be framing me! I beg Your Highness to investigate!”

Desperate, he slammed his forehead against the ground repeatedly. The impact echoed through the room—bang, bang, bang—until blood began to trickle down his face.