An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2441

Chapter 2441

In a grand mansion deep within the city, Nathaniel sat silently as a female spy clad in black knelt before him, delivering her report.

“Master, the Mosey family has been unusually active lately, forming alliances everywhere. Many of the eight wealthy families and other factions have already joined forces with them. If this continues, they will pose a significant threat to us,” she said, her head bowed slightly.

Nathaniel’s expression remained calm. “They’re relying on my second brother Matthias, aren’t they?”

The spy nodded. “The Mosey family is ambitious. They claim to support Prince Matthias, but in reality, they’re using him as a puppet to expand their influence.”

This spy had infiltrated the Mosey family for years, learning their secrets and studying their people. She knew Prince Seamus’s public image as a philanthropist was just a facade. In truth, he was ruthless and unflinching, a man who wouldn’t hesitate to kill.

“There was an adopted son who once argued publicly with Seamus,” she continued. “Not long after, he was killed by supposed enemies, paving the way for Frost Bane to rise. But my investigation revealed it was Seamus’s private army, tasked with eliminating dissent, that carried out the murder.”

Nathaniel sneered. “It seems Seamus is determined to use Matthias to secure power. Too bad my dear brother is just a pawn. Strong in body, but simple in mind, he truly believes he’s destined for the throne.”

“Master, your army is ready at a moment’s notice. With your command, Seamus wouldn’t live to see tomorrow,” the spy said firmly.

Nathaniel shook his head. “Assassinating Seamus is a last resort. Doing so would trigger a frenzy of retaliation, plunging Oakvale into chaos. That is not an outcome I desire.”

The spy hesitated. “Then, Master, do you have another plan?”

Nathaniel leaned back, his lips curling into a cold smile. “Matthias may lack the wisdom of a ruler, but he’s prideful and unwilling to be overshadowed. If he learns he’s merely Seamus’s pawn, what do you think he’ll do?”

“Do you mean to sow discord? To turn them against each other?” the spy asked, catching on.

“Exactly,” Nathaniel said. “Their alliance is built on mutual gain, not trust. Once suspicion takes root, they’ll crumble from within, and we can dismantle them piece by piece.”

“Master, you’re brilliant!” the spy exclaimed, her eyes lighting up.

“Oh, and what of my eldest brother Tristan?” Nathaniel asked casually.

The spy’s tone softened. “The eldest prince has been trying to gather allies, but few have joined him. For now, he’s not a significant threat.”

Nathaniel chuckled. “Ambitious as Tristan is, fate has dealt him a poor hand. He doesn’t have much time left. Arrange a meeting with him for me.”

“Yes, Master,” the spy said before disappearing into the shadows.

An hour later, Nathaniel, disguised, entered a private mansion. Tristan had been waiting, with tea and snacks already prepared in the sitting room.

“Forgive me, Eldest Brother, for keeping you waiting,” Nathaniel said, removing his coat and smiling warmly.

Tristan waved it off with a grin. “It’s rare for us to meet like this, brother. I’m just glad you came. A few minutes’ wait is nothing.”

He poured tea for both of them, handing one cup to Nathaniel.

Nathaniel accepted the cup but set it aside discreetly. Years of caution had ingrained in him the habit of avoiding food and drink from unfamiliar sources.

“Tell me, Nathaniel, is this meeting about business or personal matters?” Tristan asked, getting straight to the point.

“A bit of both,” Nathaniel replied, his tone serious.

Tristan raised an eyebrow. “Oh? And what might those be?”

Nathaniel’s expression grew somber. “Eldest Brother, there’s no need for pretenses. Our father’s health is rapidly declining, and the throne remains undecided. Between the three of us, only Matthias seems to have gained significant support, especially from the Mosey family.”

Tristan remained composed. “The throne is a tempting prize. It’s natural for Matthias to chase it.”

“But this isn’t just about Matthias,” Nathaniel said sharply. “The Mosey family isn’t supporting him out of loyalty. They’re using him.”

Tristan frowned. “Explain.”

Nathaniel leaned in. “Seamus is a cunning man, obsessed with power. He’s backing Matthias not out of respect, but to control him. You and I know Matthias’s strengths lie in battle, not strategy. Once Matthias ascends, Seamus will consolidate power, making Matthias a puppet and crowning himself the real ruler behind the scenes.

When that happens, it won’t just be Matthias who suffers. Our entire Linsor Dynasty will be at the mercy of the Mosey family!”

His words hung in the air, heavy with warning. Tristan’s calm demeanor faltered ever so slightly. For the first time, doubt flickered in his eyes.