ROMAN EMPIRE (Mafia Series 7) (The Emperor of Alpha's Empire) (On-going)

CHAPTER 8

TWO DAYS have passed since Kairo and Primo departed for the Philippines. I find myself within the Royal Hall, in conversation with important members of the nobility concerning the rebellious elements. Since the vile attempt of my life, these malcontents have ceased their incursions upon the palace. Their uncharacteristic silence, however, breeds a disquiet within me. I'm not sure what they're planning, but I'm sure someone important is watching their every step.

I feel the presence of my enemy, lurking in the shadows. Those rebels wouldn't dare attack me without someone powerful pulling the strings. I totally oassure assure that they are just tools, used by a master manipulator. Certain members of the court harbor a deep-seated animosity towards me. They find my reign distasteful, and their dissent was palpable even during my coronation. Thus, I am aware that one amongst those present, a viper in my midst, desires my downfall. And I will expose them, right now.

I took a deep breath, my gaze settling upon my butler. I motioned for him to approach, and he complied immediately. One of my counselors watched our interaction with a keen eye, and his expression was unreadable.

“Your Grace?”

“Where is the item you showed me yesterday?” -I asked.

“The object is with me, Your Majesty.”

“Bring it before them.”

A cold silence fell over the room as I fixed my gaze upon them. Euan, his face grim, held up the thingy he had found in the forest where I had been attacked. “I want you to examine this object,” -I said, my voice cold and steady. “And observe.”

Nakita ko ang pagkunot ng noo nilang lahat. Si Euan naman ay umatras at tumabi sa'kin at nanatiling nakatayo.

“What is this?”

“A ring?”

“If my memory serves me correctly, that ring hails from the lineage of Strathclyde.” -my gaze turned to Lady Isadora. “And yes, I am referring to Duke Caspian.”

My eyes narrowed. “Are you certain of this?”

“Yes, Your Majesty. His late father, a dear friend of mine, wore that ring. I could not be mistaken.”

A chilling silence descended upon the room as I straightened. “Where is he?” -I asked. “Why has he not answered my summons? Has he forgotten the consequences of defying my decree?”

A heavy silence descended upon them, their faces betraying their shock at my question. I couldn't believe that even now, Caspian dared to defy me. At ngayon, putangina. If Lady Isadora is truthful about the Duke family owning the ring Euan discovered, then I have no doubt they are the masterminds behind the rebellion.

I subtly raised my left hand and gestured for Euan to come closer. “Your Grace?”

“Find him.”

After my Butler retreated, I rose to my feet and picked up the ring. I scrutinized it carefully, finding it unfamiliar. Never had I witnessed any member of Lord Caspian's lineage adorned with such a piece. However, considering Lady Isadora's revelations, my surprise is perhaps unwarranted. Lord Caspian is one of those who harbors a deep-seated animosity towards me.

If this ring indeed belonged to him, then it's no surprise he would attempt to take my life. He has dared to threaten me on numerous occasions, as if my royal stature held no consequence. His audacity stems from my deliberate choice to ignore his petty machinations.

I let out a sigh of weariness. If I can prove he's aiding the rebels, I will not let him escape the consequences of his actions. He will pay for what he has done. My inaction is not a sign of weakness. He will learn that I am not the same as before.