An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2555

At dusk, Matthias and Seamus sat across from each other in the Mosey mansion, engaged in an intense strategic battle. The terrain model between them had become a miniature battlefield, and every move was answered with a calculated counter.

Standing nearby, Anders silently observed, careful not to interrupt.

Eventually, the game concluded when Seamus placed a white flag on the model, conceding defeat.

“Your Highness, your command of warfare is truly impressive,” he said. “Your tactics are sharp, unpredictable—almost otherworldly. There’s simply no defending against them. I’ve always seen myself as a capable strategist, but clearly, I’m nowhere near your level.”

He chuckled, shook his head, and accepted a white towel from the maid to gently wipe his fingers.

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

Though born into royalty, Matthias never dared to overstep in Seamus’s presence.

After all, Seamus had been the chief architect of his rise to power—not only providing financial support but also helping forge alliances and eliminate obstacles in his path.

Thanks to Seamus’s backing, Matthias finally had the leverage to challenge Tristan and Nathaniel for the throne.

“You’re truly gifted—in both intellect and warfare. In time, you will surely be remembered as a ruler of legend,” Seamus praised generously.

“It’s too early to say that. The title of crown prince hasn’t been decided yet. There’s no certainty about who will claim it,” Matthias said, shaking his head.

Though confident he could outmaneuver Tristan and Nathaniel, Matthias wasn’t about to grow complacent. He knew better than to relax until the throne was firmly his.

“With my godfather’s support, along with the Fallon family, the ancient houses, and most major powers behind you, your claim is nearly assured,” Anders added with a smile.

“That may be so, but everyone knows my father has always favored Nathaniel. If he insists on backing him, then what are we to do?” Matthias asked, narrowing his eyes.

Seamus took a calm sip of tea, saying nothing.

Anders glanced at him, then lowered his voice.

“If it comes to that, Your Highness must act decisively. Perhaps take inspiration from the Boulderthorn betrayal,” he suggested.

Matthias’s smile faded. He looked at Seamus, then turned back to Anders.

“Anders, mind your words. Do you think I would stoop to killing my own brothers for the sake of power?” he snapped.

“Your Highness, you are kind and righteous—but that doesn’t mean your brothers share those virtues. While you worry about family bonds, they may already be plotting behind your back,” Anders warned.

“This is something that warrants careful thought. What do you think, Uncle Seamus?” Matthias asked, redirecting the discussion.

Anders knew he couldn’t act without Seamus’s blessing. If betrayal was on the table, it would need his consent.

“I will follow your lead. Whatever you decide, you’ll have my full support,” Seamus answered calmly.

“Thank you, Uncle Seamus,” Matthias said with a faint smile. “By the way, has there been any news from the West Lucozian monarchy?”

Across the empire, only the West Lucozian monarchy held enough influence to alter the outcome of the succession. With 300,000 Black Dragon troops under their command, their support could tip the scales decisively.
“I’ve gathered some intel. They’re dealing with internal issues. Right now, they’re purging their own ranks and don’t have time to worry about Oakvale.

“Besides, Rufus doesn’t have much time left.

If they want to avoid more trouble, the smart move is to lay low and act like nothing’s happening,” Anders explained.

“That’s a relief,” Matthias said with a relaxed smile.

As long as West Lucozia stayed quiet, everything remained under control.

“Your Highness! There’s trouble at the mansion!”

While they were speaking, Neville, Matthias’s personal guard, burst into the room.

“What’s the rush? Can’t you see I’m in the middle of a conversation with Uncle Seamus?” Matthias snapped, frowning in irritation at the interruption.

A veteran commander like Neville wouldn’t panic over something trivial.

“I just received word that Zeus—the royal god from the Hall of Gods—stormed into the mansion. He’s killing indiscriminately and has even taken Her Highness hostage. The entire place is in chaos,” Neville reported urgently.

“What? Zeus?” Matthias shot to his feet, his expression darkening.

“How could this happen?” he demanded. “I’ve never had any conflict with the Hall of Gods. Why would the mighty Zeus suddenly invade my mansion and start killing my people?”

To his knowledge, there had never been any bad blood between them. If anything, their relationship had been neutral at worst. This unprovoked attack was baffling.

“I don’t have the full picture yet, but our guards have suffered heavy losses. We need reinforcements immediately. Please give the order,” Neville urged.

“Damn the Hall of Gods! Slaughtering my men without reason—they’ve gone too far,” Matthias growled, fury flaring in his eyes.

“Neville, listen carefully. Mobilize the troops and surround every one of those Hall of Gods bastards. Make them pay.”

“Understood, Your Highness,” Neville replied before quickly leaving.

In Oakvale, only a select few had the authority to deploy troops—and Matthias was one of them.