At a top-tier inn, inside the luxurious VIP lounge…
A handso young man reclined lazily on a velvet couch, his fingers gracefully swirling a crystal glass of aged wine. The warm golden lighting cast a gentle glow over his features, making him even more striking. Around him were several high-class noblewon, daughters of prominent aristocrats.All vying for his attention, laughing, blushing, and pressing closer, intoxicated by both the wine and his charm.
Theron, with a teasing smile, bantered effortlessly. His hands were anything but idle, caressing and brushing against soft skin, eliciting gasps and giggles. The atmosphere grew thick with tension; thighs clenched, eyes fluttered, breaths quickened.
But just as the heat reached its peak..
Knock. Knock.
A firm knock echoed through the room.
Theron's smile faded slightly, his brow creasing with mild irritation. He had given explicit orders not to be disturbed. The only people who could ignore such a warning were his personal spies—or soone powerful enough to take such a risk. Perhaps soone from one of the Five Great Houses… or worse, soone from the royal family.
"...Co in," he finally said, his voice laced with calm authority.
The girls reluctantly pulled away, pouting with desire still in their eyes. Theron offered them a soft smile, a silent promise of more to co, and they backed off obediently.
The door opened, and Theron's relaxed expression sharpened instantly—not out of respect for the individual entering, but because of what their presence implied.
A woman clad in dark spy attire entered and bowed lightly.
"I greet the Crown Prince. I bring news," she said crisply.
"Hmm." Theron gave a slight nod. "Ladies… if you would excuse us?"
The won nodded and quickly left, throwing longing glances over their shoulders.
Once alone, he gestured for the woman to speak.
"My lord, the eldest prince—Caius—visited the Duke family," she reported, kneeling.
Theron's eyes narrowed. "My brother?"
"Yes."
A flicker of surprise passed through his gaze, then vanished. He leaned back, thoughtful.
What is Caius planning? What does he hope to gain by approaching the Duke?
"And what happened next?"
"I couldn't infiltrate the estate, but I witnessed the eldest prince leaving... visibly enraged. The Duke didn't even bother to see him off."
"...I see." Theron nodded slowly, fingers tapping the armrest. "You may leave. Tell the girls I need a mont."
"As you command."
Once alone, Theron drained the last of his wine and sank into the plush cushions, eyes staring blankly at the high ceiling.
So... the eting failed.
Was the Duke already siding with him, or did he refuse both brothers?
Theron smirked coldly.
The Duke… a man known for valuing his people above all else. Would he really trade his daughter's happiness for political leverage? Or is this part of sothing deeper?
The evidence pointed to one conclusion—Caius was rejected. But Theron knew better than to take things at face value. Caius wasn't so naïve fool. He was a man who understood power. Theron had learned much from him in the past… including just how dangerous that quiet deanor could be.
Was this all part of Caius' plan, knowing I'd be watching? If I want to know where the Duke stands, I'll have to take more covert action…
Theron's lips curled into a wry smile.
"...So, you're back, brother. Stirring chaos already. And now, you're manipulating ?"
He rose, stepping over to the dark glass window. From this vantage point, he could see the wealthy mingling below, spoiled brats and drunken nobles lost in their rrint beneath loud music. Yet they couldn't see him; to them, it was just a dark pane.
"...But there's one thing you overlooked."
A dark grin spread across his face.
"I already planted a pawn in the Duke family... Your beloved childhood friend's sister.....Flora. But no, you wouldn't know."
He paused.
A shadow flickered beside him.
"Go," he commanded coldly. "Sever ties between the military and the Duke family. Spread subtle rumors—let it seem like they're being quietly abandoned."
The shadow bowed once and vanished into nothingness.
One of his most trusted shadow. Trained from birth to obey only him. Death would be embraced without hesitation, if commanded.
****
anwhile… in another part of the capital
Caius sat within his private courtyard, dining in silence. Golden lamplight shimred off polished plates, and a soft breeze rustled the drapes. His expression was thoughtful, contemplative.
So, Theron… will you take the path I've laid out? Or will you stray?
A faint smile tugged at his lips.
Whichever you choose, know this—every other path leads into the unknown.
He chuckled lightly, picking up a piece of roasted at.
"When faced with the known and the unknown," he mused, "step into the known… to uncover the unknown."
Knock. Knock.
His eyes flicked to the door.
"Hmm? Who is it?"
"Mai," ca a soft, feminine voice.
"Oh, cousin. Co in. I've been waiting. Eat with ."
"I dare not, even if we share blood. You're still the eldest prince," she replied, bowing as she entered.
Caius laughed. "Alright, alright…"
He resud eating, his eyes watching her carefully. Every subtle reaction mattered—trust was built, or broken, in monts like these.
After a pause, Mai finally spoke.
"The family head wishes to invite you to visit us."
Caius froze for a mont, then grinned.
"In a week's ti, then. I'll co."
Mai smiled faintly, bowed, and took her leave.
Caius leaned back in his seat, wine swirling.
Perfect timing. By then… the Duke will be crawling for help.
Letting them fall, only to be the one who offers salvation—that was how true control was forged. Worship born of desperation was far stronger than loyalty born of duty.
As for Liya… or the Duke himself?
Heh. Sentint is for fools. If you can't be cold-hearted… you'll die without even knowing why.
The ga of chess between him and Theron has begun officially.
******************†*******************†**********
Took a two days or so break. Am back, exams coming too so I have to update more before then.
Thank you guys for the massive support. It is highly appreciated and for the reviews too.
Let's make a ruthless mc together.
Also tell which character do you guys like now and the one you hate
I want everyone to participate and tell
Thank you.
User Comments
0 comments from readers