Under a Dimmed Sun [UNCENSORED]

SII: Chapter LXVIII: The Journey

Peter's arrival at the House of Mohn was met with a grand display of formality and restrained courtesy. The estate, a sprawling medieval marvel, was draped in the hues of late autumn, its golden and crimson leaves forming a vibrant carpet beneath the cobblestone paths. The air was crisp, carrying the earthy aroma of fallen leaves and the distant scent of smoke from the estate's hearths. The grand entrance, with its imposing oak doors and intricately carved stonework, opened to reveal a hall adorned with rich tapestries and the flickering light of numerous chandeliers.

Albert of Mohn greeted Peter and his party with a practiced smile, though a hint of bitterness lingered in his eyes. "Welcome to the House of Mohn, Lord Peter," he said, extending a hand in greeting. "We are honored by your presence."

Peter, ever the diplomat, returned the handshake with a firm grip and a warm smile. "Thank you, Lord Albert. Your hospitality is much appreciated."

The grand dining hall of the House of Mohn exuded opulence, with its high arched ceilings and elaborate chandeliers casting a warm, golden light over the richly decorated table. The feast was sumptuous, and the air was thick with the mingling scents of roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and fragrant wines. As the evening wore on, the noblemen engaged in animated discussions about current affairs and politics. Peter, however, kept a keen eye on his surroundings, attempting to discern any sign of Alice or the late Lord Mohn's mistresses.

Albert, seated at the head of the table, leaned back in his chair, a glass of wine delicately poised in his hand. He glanced at Peter with a sly, almost mocking smile. "So, Lord Peter," he began, his voice smooth but carrying an undercurrent of sarcasm, "how are the politics of the capital these days? I hear there are quite a few shifting alliances. One might wonder how the Wode family is navigating these turbulent waters."

Peter, attempting to maintain his composure, took a sip of his wine before responding. "Indeed, Lord Albert. The political landscape is ever-changing. We've been adjusting our strategies accordingly. I trust your estate is faring well amidst these changes?"

Albert's smile widened slightly, his eyes narrowing as he leaned in. "Oh, we manage as best we can. Though I must admit, some of the decisions being made are... unconventional. It's a shame when noble houses place their trust in such questionable judgments. Don't you think?"

Peter's eyebrows raised slightly, sensing the undercurrent of the conversation. "Unconventional? Can you elaborate?"

Albert shrugged nonchalantly, his tone dripping with feigned innocence. "Well, it's just that I've heard some rather curious decisions coming out of the Wode estate. One would think that a house so deeply entrenched in the realm's politics would exercise a bit more prudence."

Peter's expression hardened slightly, but he kept his voice calm. "Prudence is often in the eye of the beholder, I suppose. We all have our methods. And how is the House of Mohn adapting to the current shifts?"

Albert's eyes sparkled with a hint of challenge. "We've been quite adaptable. Though, I must say, it's amusing to watch how some choose to play the game. One might wonder if all these moves are as well thought out as they appear."

Peter felt a pang of irritation but chose to remain diplomatic. "The game of politics is indeed complex. Sometimes, appearances can be deceiving."

Albert's tone turned more pointed. "True, appearances can be deceiving. But one has to wonder, Lord Peter, how well one can truly see through the illusions when one is so... entangled in personal matters."

Peter's gaze sharpened. "Personal matters?"

Albert's eyes gleamed with a hint of malice. "Oh, just the various interests and entanglements that seem to preoccupy some. It must be quite a challenge to balance personal desires with the responsibilities of statecraft."