Chapter 18-Aria

"It makes things possible." The famous tagline the smartphone company was now presenting. The introduction of smartphones became a hit and has been in progress for decades. Just like now, another feature has been added, but the market value seemed too high for the public since it was using an energy stone as its battery source.

The major source of energy in this Empire is called an energy stone. It was discovered before the empire was established. And the first to discover it became the first Emperor using it as the leverage to gain popularity and lead the people. It was said that energy stones are the mountainous region where dragons lair existed and it was very hard to acquire. Thus, making the energy stones expensive.

However, while I was in slumber, an alternate source of energy was discovered using the knowledge I wrote. Using windmill and digging deep into the earth, they found out that they can create electricity with it. All people in the Empire benefitted from it and life became more convenient than before. The energy stones are still in use, but most nobles and rich merchants can afford it. To say, having an energy stone is a symbol of one's status.

"This limited edition new product features include infinite battery lifespan as well as memory storage. Its main feature is the 10x zoom camera and the new self-camera where you can take pictures with ease as well as its precise location locator. It may be a bit expensive, but it's a collector's item that only our Empire produces. Neighboring empires are slowly covering our technologies, but rest assured that only in this Empire alone, we have the best technology we could offer. It's all thanks to our Highness ideas that we were able to reach the top." One of the richest merchants with a Baron title said. He was entitled to the lowest rank because of his achievements. I was racking my head what his name is since he became a Baron just a few years ago.

"Thank you, Baron Eagle, for presenting this new innovation." I knew his name was something related to a bird. "However, just like you said a while ago, this is only limited and few people can afford this technology. But I wonder if would sell at all because of this odd design."

It has the oddest design I've ever seen. It has a rectangular shape just like a palm-size mini-refrigerator. And it also looks heavy.

"I agree with Her Highness. If I were to buy the product, it would be hard to carry that around." said one of the council.

"Most of the smartphones have great camera features too. But I like the idea of a camera in front of the screen."

They all look at the prototype product and agreed. In the end, they decided to change the design.

When we talked about road construction, everything went smoothly and the plan for the new road development has been successfully reported. I was delighted as to how everything is greatly improved. When it comes to the safety and security of the Empire, Emperor Van's management was kept at its best and new weapons were also developed and were used. Therefore, we are confident to say that we can protect the Empire to it's best of its ability without worrying much.

It was pretty exhausting, but we were already at the end of the agenda which is the introduction of the new lady-in-waiting. I wonder why it was included since we can do it in private. I was already informed about it, but it will be my first time to see her face and know her name.

"Your Highness, we are pleased to introduce you to the daughter of the marquess house and she will serve as your lady in waiting, Lady Aria Delavignia."

The said lady slowly appeared before me that almost took my breath away.

"Greetings to the Yin and Yang of the Empire, Your Highness the Empress. I am Lady Aria Delavignia, the daughter of Marquess Delavignia. I am honored to serve you as your lady in waiting." she bowed her head in front of me. I almost lost my control when I first saw her. How much more to hear her beautiful voice.

"Welcome Lady Aria. I am pleased to meet you. The other ladies will guide you with your work." I sigh inwardly as I was able to keep my composure.

"Thank you, everyone! If there's nothing more to be discussed, then you are all dismissed." I said and everyone bowed their heading before heading out. I went back to my office together with my ladies-in-waiting.

"I need to talk to Lady Aria alone." I immediately informed them as we arrived. I was getting anxious and my heart is thumping hard in my chest. They all looked surprised at first, but they heed to my command and left us alone.

Meanwhile, Aria was standing innocently in front of me as if she wonders what I want from her.

I was thinking about how to start the conversation. I have lots of questions, but I want to make sure if she is the same Aria that I met or not. She looked nervous and innocent. I offered her to sit down. I ring the bell to ask for tea.

"Do I make you uncomfortable?" I asked.

"No, Your Highness. I am just overwhelmed to be in your presence. I have been looking forward to being your lady-in-waiting." she shyly replied. This seemed odd. They have the same face and the same voice, but the lady in front of me looked shy.

"So, Lady Aria, why did you become my lady in waiting?"

"I always wanted to be beside you, Your Highness. Ever since you came back, it was my dream to be your on your side," she answered bashfully but with a red face. I wanted to ask her more, but as we keep talking, she seemed not the same as the Aria who keeps visiting me and I feel a bit disappointed.

Her personality is different from the haughty and confident one that I knew. As we talked, I was convinced that they are not the same.

"Well, thank you for answering my questions. I hope you will be comfortable with your stay here and work with others. You may rest for now and start your day tomorrow." I said and stand up. I was about a few steps away from her when I hear a sudden whisper beside me.

"I will see you tonight My Empress." I immediately turn around to see her naughty smile and looked at me confidently. So, she was Aria, my Aria, after all.