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.”

network of influence and formed alliances. Though the outcome

fact that he could wipe out the Hall of Gods and multiple factions in a single night was

in and threw caution to the wind, he

upsides and downsides to this,” Seamus

then his presence won’t affect us much. Conversely, should he choose to involve himself in the fight for power,

need to find out whether this person

Matthias caught on quickly.

his intentions,

don’t seem nervous, Uncle

have

Matthias looked bewildered.

trace of worry in his expression. Either his mental discipline was unmatched, or he had already devised

handled with a clear head. Sometimes we have to accept what fate puts in front of us.”

weathered storms far greater than that. After surviving countless brushes with death, his will was unshakable. Even if the sky were falling, he wouldn’t so much as flinch.

I only believe in myself,” Matthias said, clenching a fist. ” I’ll crush whoever stands in

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

setback isn’t the end. As long as you’re alive, you

mean much to me. I only follow one creed-either I take the

excelled at combat. Anyone who stood in his way would be killed. To him, that was a straightforward, no-nonsense,

I have no right to dictate your choices, but I might have some insight to offer regarding the question

hear it.” Matthias perked

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

“This…” Matthias frowned slightly.