As he straightened his collar, Valeria entered the room, her usual sharpness softened by the morning light. Her shadowy figure moved gracefully toward him, her crimson eyes lingering over his attire with approval.
"Master, you look formidable," she said with a smirk, crossing her arms as she watched him.
"Good. It's exactly what I'm going for," Aiden replied, his gaze steely. "Today, we're making sure the Loains know that an alliance with me is their only true path forward."
Valeria nodded, her demeanor growing serious. "The Loain family head, Lord Edrik, is known for his pragmatism. He won't be easily swayed by mere promises."
"That's why I've prepared something more substantial than promises." Aiden's smirk mirrored hers. "We'll be bringing them protection. Resources. A foundation to elevate their standing while keeping them loyal to the crown."