The Corrupted Syndicate

However, Mattheos refused to believe that his boss would agree with Zenos...

"There's a reason why I couldn't recommend you to lead the charge for the newcomers a few months ago… You simply do not have the aptitude to be a leader and make decisions on the go."

"Your compassion isn't to be insulted but in this situation, you have to put it aside. Your emotions can cloud you and by the time you realize it, your brethren would've fallen," said the dragoness, her demeanor returning to normal.

She gently patted the rabbit's head, her fingers ruffling his fur in a soothing gesture. As Matt leaned into the comfort, the Viceroy observed with a hint of curiosity. It was striking how her usual cold demeanor had melted away, revealing a softer side he hadn't anticipated.

"I'm not inciting that you should throw away your compassion, because that's what makes you my bunny boy. It's always better to have company that conflicts with you instead of always surrounding myself with like-minded individuals."

"Why else do you think I stopped working with Venom? Both of us have a very cynical view of the world and I simply was bored out of my mind whenever speaking to him."

"The main reason why Beast chose me to be the First Seat of the Covert Ops was that I lacked the care in lives. Of course, I don't go out of my way to slaughter everything that breathes but it meant that my choices wouldn't be blinded by emotions."

"Because once a king falters, the game is done. I hope you understand this because there will come a time you have to choose for yourself and the weight behind that choice might cost you dearly."

The dragoness's words sank deeply into the rabbit's thoughts as she gently comforted him.

While part of him grasped and accepted the logic behind her perspective, another part struggled with the conviction that there might still be an alternative way to address the situation.

The internal conflict left him torn between understanding her rationale and yearning for a different approach.

"You are much too young within the world of combat and wars… In time, you will learn. However, I need your cooperation with this mission and would need you to work with Zenos. Could you do that?" questioned Mavislin, glancing at the Viceroy.

"So long as he isn't going to cut off my ears then I should be fine. Anyway, I don't have much of a choice, do I? Now then, what's our plan?" answered the rabbit, ready to return to the task.

Zenos and Mavislin shared a knowing look before eagerly outlining their plan to the rabbit.

To their surprise, the earlier exchange seemed to have subdued the fiery creature; Matt listened intently, his once-tense posture now relaxed, and his expression showed an unexpected calm.

It seemed the previous conversation had worked its magic, leaving him docile enough to accept their strategy without a fight.

"I'd wish to add a bit more about the Twilight Twins if you both don't mind," added Mattheos as he sighed, trying to recollect his memories and words.

"Do let us know. Also, we've decided to head to Heliomald, where Solaris resides in Vulcana, her throne," replied the dragoness, thanking the shaking servant for her refreshments and service.

The Viceroy simply ignored the servant, partaking in his tea without any care in the world.

"As you've mentioned, the Twilight Twins aren't the original ones. However, it is not to undermine their abilities."

"If anything, we should be extra cautious as the twins here are the extreme opposite of their originals. You're both aware of the excessive use of Guardians?" asked Matt, eyes scanning the two beings.

"Excessive use? I am aware of the concept of Guardians but was not warned about the overuse of it, " quizzed Zenos.

"Ah, of course… The Northern Cartel has always been wary of Magecraft. When a being from this realm forms a pact with an entity from another realm—one that has sat in the Seat of Valour—they essentially merge into a single vessel."

"Picture trying to fit the contents of two water containers into one; if done improperly, the container will overflow. A successful pact allows the original "container" to expand slightly, making room for the Guardian's essence. Otherwise, the Guardian is quickly expelled.

"Over time, with frequent use of the Guardian's power, the two minds begin to blend. As accessing the Alter form or even the Guardian's true form becomes easier, the mage's sense of self starts to diminish."

"In essence, the individual begins to transform into the Guardian, losing their personal identity in the process," explained the rabbit, closing his eyes.

"Then wouldn't it be better for Solaris to fully take over? In her old realm, she was known as a benevolent goddess, right?" asked the Viceroy.