Page 51 of Ruthless Kings of Havoc

This is the new path we’re going to be walking upon.

“We are officially the Ruthless Kings of Havoc. May we be cunning and unpredictable in this world of sinister beauty and grace? At least, until next year, when we prove ourselves worthy of our next ascension of power.”

The cheers of praise are endless as the ignited applause echoes in the hollow space.

Saint Joaquin proceeds to walk to us, a mic in hand, as he, too, looks immensely proud of our display of power and triumph. The moment he reaches our group and raises his hand, the room is silent in a heartbeat.

Now THAT is power.

“Let me be one of the first to congratulate this set of Royals, Ruthless Kings of Havoc,” he begins and briefly stares at Eva. He seems intrigued by something, but whatever flashes in his aged eyes is gone far too quickly for me to pick up on. “It has been rather intriguing watching the dynamic of Ruthless Kings ofCarnage and the initiation of various actions to rise in the realms of power and domination.”

He’s briefly looking back in the crowd, and I don’t hesitate to follow his gaze, noticing how it easily falls upon my little brother.

“When leadership is destined to fall in grace, there’s only two options available. You can rise from the ashes created by the errors of judgment and consequences, or you can allow yourself to burn until you, too, are nothing but abandoned ash and soot.”

He smirks at his own words and proceeds to look my way.

“It’s quite an honor to personally meet you, Matteo Leighton. Your name, foundation, and the various acts of authoritative change you’ve instilled in our unpredictable community have been rather refreshing,” he dares to praise. “We as a society enjoy unpredictability. It allows new and fresh perspectives. Initiations to transpire and lead toward a new path that those inspired will follow. It’s what many would praise as ‘thinking outside of the box.’ In this generation of Royals and potential rulers, very few have the ability to do such.”

His praise has everyone’s attention, and I can hear the camera shutters continuing to go off. I’m sure everyone is recording this moment, as though they can nitpick every detail to see what can be used to further project their own desires for success after this trial of fame within our royal university walls.

“Which is why I’ve decided to grant one request for your group of Royals,” he declares. From the multiple gasps, this isn’t a normal occurrence.

You don’t need to be a genius to grasp this.

“Money. Rank advancement. Property. You name it,” he suggests as he briefly looks at the crowd, knowing the attention is on him. “I overheard your current place of haven was burned down due to a tragic cause of irresponsibility. We really should make a policy regarding smoking near such ancient architecture.”

The side comment is clearly directed at my little brother because their eyes are locked, and I can enjoy the fuming rage that washes over Domino’s face.

Best time I play my trump card.

“That’s a welcoming gesture to grace us, Saint Joaquin,” I announce and use his full name out of respect. Others would have no choice but to address him as Mr. Joaquin, but this strategic move is made with purpose.To remind him that I am on a similar level as him.I may even surpass it now that I’m a Ruthless King. “But I do have a special request that I’d humbly present for your approval as well as our entire society for our attendance at Leighton Royal University to be what I’d consider… more balanced.”

His intrigue sparks the crowd to whisper and wonder what I’m about to request.

“Balance, you say?” He really is curious as those aged eyes of green with hints of blue twinkle with curiosity. “Please. Enlighten us, Ruthless King. What do you wish to request?”

This is my opportunity.

For a second, I want to agree with my rattled mind that this could be a bad idea.

Giving power to someone who I know can take away my new toy that I’ve come to admire.

Yet, cooperation is needed for us to get through this stage of Havoc.

The final piece toward are rise in claiming our own unified empire.

“As you see, having three Ruthless Kings has been an intriguing experience, to say the least. Some would concur that we’re balanced, but truthfully, I think our dynamic is rather odd.”

“Odd, you say?” Saint Joaquin raises an eyebrow. “Do you not like the chosen Kings among you?”

“I approve of their reign immensely,” I reply calmly while maintaining a sense of dominance. “In fact, we have a lot of similarities… even if I rather not admit that so openly.” I purposely smirk then, conning the crowd that’s squealing in approval.

Puppets. All moving to the pull of my devious strings.

“However, Saint Joaquin, our Maiden is rather sought out.” I gesture to Eva, who doesn’t seem surprised by my statement but is trying to control the redness swarming along her cheeks. “I’m sure you’re well aware of how powerful the Prescotts have become. With them having their own academic institutions of Royals, it feels like a privilege to have her on this stage.”

I reach out a hand, allowing Eva to lay her hand in mind so I can bring her close. My arm is around her waist in a heartbeat, pressing her against me as if I need to feel her presence to know she’s safe and sound.

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