An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

It was midday at the Mosey mansion, and Seamus was sipping tea and reading in the garden after lunch.

Just then, an aide approached him and reported, “Sir Mosey, Prince Matthias is here to see you.”

“Show him in,” Seamus replied with a nod.

He didn’t look surprised, as if he had been expecting his visit.

“Yes, sir,” the aide acknowledged, then left quickly.

Moments later, Matthias walked briskly into the back garden.

“Uncle Seamus! Something major happened in Oakvale last night,” he exclaimed before he’d even settled into a chair.

“What could prompt such concern from you, Your Highness?” Seamus asked as he set aside his book and smiled.

“Some underground forces led by the Hall of Gods were eliminated last night. Even my businesses were severely affected,” Matthias said with a grave expression.

He went on, “What’s most troubling is how suddenly it all happened. I didn’t receive any news in advance. Despite multiple investigations afterward, nothing turned up. I’m utterly baffled about who’s behind this, which is why I’ve come hoping you might shed some light on the matter.”

“I have also heard about last night’s upheaval,” Seamus replied calmly.

He nodded thoughtfully before adding, ” You’re right. Whoever eliminated the Hall of Gods is shrouded in mystery. Even with all my channels, I haven’t been able to uncover a single lead.”

“How can this be happening?” Matthias frowned. “At this pivotal moment in the succession struggle, this mysterious figure with terrifying capabilities has suddenly emerged. I can’t tell if this works in my favor or against me.”

Nathaniel and Tristan through both open rivalry and covert scheming, as each prince built their network of influence and formed alliances. Though the outcome was far from certain, at least their methods were

could

caution to the wind, he doubted he could achieve that level of

upsides and downsides to this,” Seamus said

affect us much. Conversely, should he choose to involve himself in the fight for power, whichever prince gains

out whether this person

Matthias caught on quickly.

his intentions, and

seem nervous, Uncle

already have a plan in

Matthias looked bewildered.

purge, Seamus was unnervingly calm. There wasn’t a trace of worry in his expression.

with a clear head. Sometimes we have to accept what fate

surviving countless brushes with death, his will was unshakable. Even if the sky were falling, he wouldn’t so much as flinch. A little

believe in fate. I only believe in myself,” Matthias said, clenching a fist. ” I’ll

calmly, “Ambition is a good thing, Your Highness. But when you’re up against a stronger enemy, sometimes the smart

revenge. It means a setback isn’t the end. As long as you’re alive,

much to me. I only follow one creed-either I take the throne or I fall

combat. Anyone who stood in his way would be killed.

choices, but I might have some insight to offer regarding the question you brought up

Let’s hear it.”

out the Hall of Gods’ entire forces in a single night, without

“This…” Matthias frowned slightly.