An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

At dusk, Matthias and Seamus sat across from each other in the Mosey mansion. They were locked in an intense game of strategy. The terrain model between them had become a battlefield, and each move was met with a calculated counter.

Anders stood beside them as he silently observed their game without interrupting.

Eventually, the game ended after Seamus placed a white flag in the terrain model and conceded defeat.

“Your Highness, your grasp of warfare is truly remarkable,” he said. “Your tactics are sharp, unpredictable-almost otherworldly. There’s simply no defending against them. I’ve always considered myself a strategist, but clearly, I’m nowhere near your level.”

He chuckled and shook his head, then took the white towel the maid handed over and slowly wiped his fingers.

“You flatter me, Uncle Seamus. It was just a lucky break, that’s all,” Matthias replied humbly.

Though he was born into royalty, Matthias never dared to assert himself in Seamus’ presence.

After all, Seamus was the primary backer of his ascension to the throne. He didn’t just provide financial backing, but he also helped Matthias build alliances and clear the many obstacles in his way.

With that backing, Matthias finally had the edge to challenge Tristan and Nathaniel in the fight for the throne.

“You’re truly gifted. You excel in intellect and warfare. Given time, you will undoubtedly become a ruler remembered throughout history,” Seamus complimented him generously.

“It’s too soon to say that. The crown prince title is still undecided. There’s no guarantee who will claim it,” Matthias replied and shook his head.

and Nathaniel, Matthias wasn’t taking any chances. He knew better

godfather’s support, along with the Fallon family, the ancient houses, and all the major powers behind you, your

be true, but everyone knows my father has always favored Nathaniel. If he insists

calmly took a sip of tea

glanced at Seamus,

to that, Your Highness must be ruthless. You may have to take a page from the Boulderthorn betrayal,” he

looked at Seamus and

you think I would ever resort to killing my brothers for the sake of power?” he

righteous, but that doesn’t mean your brothers share the same virtue. While you’re concerned about brotherhood, they could be plotting

do you think, Uncle Seamus?” Matthias

If betrayal was on the table,

follow your lead. Whatever decision you make, I will

you, Uncle Seamus,” Matthias said with a faint smile. “By the way, any

West Lucozian monarchy held enough power to sway the outcome of the succession to the throne. With 300,000

got problems of their own. Right now,

doesn’t have much

they don’t want more trouble on their hands, the smart move is to lay low and pretend nothing’s happening,”

relief,” Matthias replied

West Lucozia didn’t stir up any trouble, everything was under

Something’s happened