An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2481

Chapter 2481

“Your Majesty, stop talking nonsense!” Adonis declared with a righteous air. “I have always acted with integrity and have never gone against the natural order. I am worthy of the prince’s trust, my family’s trust, and my own conscience. I have nothing to hide—from heaven, the emperor, or anyone else!”

“That all sounds very noble,” Austin said coldly. “But if you’re truly innocent, why not let the law enforcement team investigate?”

Adonis’s face stiffened. A flicker of guilt flashed through his eyes.

What official didn’t have some dirt on their hands? A thorough investigation would undoubtedly uncover a few offenses.

Even if they weren’t serious, they would still tarnish his reputation.

Yet, with so many colleagues watching, admitting defeat wasn’t an option. How else could he maintain his standing? How could he continue calling himself an honest man?

“Go ahead, investigate!” Adonis lifted his chin and forced a calm expression. “I have never broken the law. No matter how much you dig, you’ll find nothing!”

“You claim to be spotless? Good!” Austin scoffed. “Then today, we’ll find out if you’re a man of honor or a fraud!” He turned to Manuel and ordered, “Take the law enforcement team and investigate Adonis thoroughly—leave no stone unturned!”

Who in power was truly without fault?

It was common for officials to use their influence for personal gain or have conflicts of interest.

Most of the time, law enforcement turned a blind eye—as long as the offenses weren’t extreme. A few missteps usually resulted in nothing more than a verbal warning.

But today, Adonis had crossed the line. His blatant defiance had pushed Austin too far.

If Austin didn’t act now, Adonis would only grow bolder.

“Yes, sir!” Manuel clasped his fists and prepared to leave.

“Wait!”

Adonis panicked and quickly stopped him.

“What’s wrong? Feeling guilty already?” Austin sneered. “Weren’t you just acting tough?”

“Guilty? Who said I was guilty?” Adonis swallowed hard and pressed on. “I just don’t want to be falsely accused. Some people might try to frame me, just like they did to Cardinal Dragon Marshal!”

His words left him an escape route.

Even if Austin found evidence, Adonis could claim he was being set up.

“You still think Cardinal Dragon Marshal is innocent?” Austin challenged. “Are you saying my judgment was wrong? The evidence against him is overwhelming—does none of it convince you?”

“Evidence can be fabricated!” Adonis argued stubbornly. “Unless I see it with my own eyes and hear it from an indisputable witness, I refuse to believe Cardinal Dragon Marshal would commit such atrocities!”

“You want an eyewitness?” Austin smirked. “Fine. Let’s clear things up right now.” He signaled to Manuel. “Bring in the prisoners. Let’s hear what they have to say.”

“Yes, sir!” Manuel responded and left.

The other officials exchanged glances, whispering among themselves.

“Prisoners? Who could they be?”

“The red notice only mentioned Cardinal Dragon Marshal—no one else.”

“Could they be the witnesses His Highness was referring to?”

Adonis tried to maintain his composure, but inside, he was unsettled.

He had relied on clever arguments, twisting words to his advantage. But he had no real defense.

If Austin truly had solid evidence, today could end badly for him.

Trying to regain control, Adonis scoffed, “Your Highness, don’t think you can just bring in random people and call them witnesses. I made it clear—witnesses must have credibility, or their testimony is worthless!”

“Then tell me,” Austin countered, “how high-ranking must a witness be to be credible in your eyes?”

“At least a third-rank official!” Adonis declared.

“I don’t have a third-rank official for you,” Austin said, “but I do have two first-rank officials. See for yourself.” He gestured toward the door.

Everyone turned to look.

Two men in tattered prison uniforms shuffled into the hall, escorted by Manuel. Their heads hung low, their hair disheveled, their steps slow and lifeless.

At first, the ministers couldn’t recognize them.

Then, Austin called out. The prisoners raised their heads.

Gasps filled the room.

The two men standing before them were none other than the City Guard Commander and the Grand Secretary of Dragon Pavilion!

Both were first-rank officials in West Lucozia—figures of great authority. In terms of rank, they were even above Adonis.

After all, Adonis was merely a minister of remonstration with an honorary title, while the City Guard Commander and the Grand Secretary wielded real power.

No one had expected these once-mighty officials—men who had commanded respect and authority—to now stand before them as criminals.

What had happened?