An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2471-1

At that moment, Percival was truly scared. Before, he had just worried about being involved, but now, facing such a serious accusation, he felt completely blindsided.

“Hmph! The evidence is clear, and you still deny it? Do you want me to force the truth out of you?” Austin shouted.

“Your Highness, I’m innocent!” Percival cried, his fear pushing him to the brink of tears.

He raised his hand and swore, “If I had anything to do with Jovian’s death, may I be cursed forever.”

“If swearing oaths proved innocence, we wouldn’t need a law enforcement team,” Austin said coldly. “Out of respect for your years of service to West Lucozia, I’ll give you a chance to tell the truth and get a lighter sentence. Come clean now, or I’ll send you to Grimhold Keep.”

At the mention of Grimhold Keep, Percival started to tremble. Tears streamed down his face as he begged, “Your Highness, I swear I didn’t do anything. Who is the jerk making these accusations? I want to confront him directly.”

“Oh? You want to know who reported you? Are you planning to silence him?” Austin glared at him.

“I wouldn’t dare, Your Highness. I’ve been framed. You’re too wise to fall for these false claims,” Percival pleaded.

“The informant is highly respected and holds an important position. I have no reason to doubt him,” Austin replied.

When he heard that, Percival seemed to realize something. He suddenly looked up and asked, “Was it Warrick Prescott who accused me? That scoundrel is trying to set me up, isn’t he?”

“Mr. Prescott is an honorable man. He wouldn’t accuse you without solid proof,” Austin said.

“So it is him. That scoundrel is framing me.” Percival’s face twisted with anger and despair.

He had already felt uneasy when he saw Warrick.

Percival was chatting and laughing with Axel from the enforcement team when he overheard a royal guard talking about a banquet Austin was hosting for Warrick. At first, he didn’t think much of it, but now it made sense. Warrick was trying to blame him for Jovian’s death.

“That scoundrel!” Percival thought angrily. “If he’s playing dirty, I won’t hold back either.”

With determination, Percival decided to speak up. “Your Highness, I know how Jovian died. Warrick is lying. He and Huxley are the real murderers. They killed Jovian to steal secrets from him. Those two deserve punishment, not me.”

Austin raised an eyebrow, looking unsure. “You’re not just trying to blame them, are you?”

“I swear on my life that what I said is true. If I’m lying, I’ll accept execution,” Percival insisted.

“Mr. Prescott accused you of murder, and now you’re accusing him. Who should I believe?” Austin sounded torn.

“If Your Highness doubts me, summon that scoundrel here. I’m ready to confront him and clear my name,” Percival said firmly.

“And what good would that do? You’ll just blame each other, and nothing will get resolved. What we need is evidence,” Austin replied seriously.

He continued, “You’re accusing Mr. Prescott and Mr. Thatcher of murdering Jovian. Do you have proof or a witness?”

“Evidence?” Percival took a moment to think. Then his eyes brightened. “I know where their secret hideouts are and who their connections are. If you investigate, you’ll find the proof you need.”

“What if we find…”

“Nothing?” Austin raised an eyebrow.

“Then, I’ll accept whatever punishment you decide,” Percival replied.

Percival was ready to fight. After being betrayed by Warrick and Huxley, he had no plans to show them mercy. If needed, he would go down swinging and burn every bridge behind him.

“Axel, take Mr. Wentworth and investigate right away. Report back as soon as you have any news,” Austin commanded, pointing to the man standing nearby.

“Yes, Your Highness,” Axel replied before leading Percival away.

The enforcement team had been struggling with their investigation. Corrupt officials were covering for each other, making it almost impossible to find any leads quickly.

But with Percival acting as an informant, everything changed. Dead ends turned into clues, and hidden connections came to light.

Percival shared everything he knew. He revealed Warrick and Huxley’s shady deals, personal weaknesses, and vices. It was either their downfall or his.

Thanks to Percival’s full cooperation, the palace enforcement team began a citywide sweep, capturing suspects one after another.

Warrick and Huxley’s corrupt activities and illegal operations were exposed, including crimes they had hidden for years.