Entrace Ceremony (1)
"My apologies, Your Highness," Analeis said, cutting Aaran off. "But the queen has entrusted me with the responsibility to look after your needs. No matter how awkward it feels, I must serve you."
On her knees, Analeis kept fidgeting, leaning towards him. Aaran could only sigh and let her continue fixing his bow tie. As for the awkwardness she mentioned, it was because she did not know what she was doing.
As a barbarian, she had never taken part in a royal function. Hence, she did not know what to do or wear. Especially, how to make a bow tie.
Amara had instructed the maids to teach Analeis what they could. But because of the time constraint, there wasn't much they could teach her.
If only they'd allow me to have more than one maid.
Aaran shook his head. Despite protecting the empire from the Marki's constant attacks, the standing of the Aurelia household was low among the remaining families. It would have been even worse if not for his parent's efforts.
That's why Aaran could have only one maid accompanying him within Excellence. But it wasn't all bad.
After all, Analeis would be perfect for the things I have in mind.
Aaran had promised Darius to take down the empire. What would be a better place to start the process than their secret mind-controlling cult?
After a few minutes, Analeis tied the perfect bow and looked proud of herself. So much so, that she forgot where she was and reached into her bosom, pulling out a pack of cigarettes.
As she put one in her mouth, Aaran cleared his throat. Despite her promises to Amara, Aaran knew Analeis would never quit smoking.
She was addicted to it and the withdrawal symptoms would be out of her control if she tried quitting on her own. That's why Aaran didn't force her to quit until now.
"You can only smoke in stressful situations, and never before me," Aaran mumbled. "Or did you forget our deal?"
"What's the point of letting me smuggle these when I can't even smoke?"
Analeis clicked her tongue and placed the pack back in her cleavage. It was the only place the guards didn't search her, so she smuggled a few packets of cigarettes in case of emergency.
Obviously, Aaran had told her the method, since everything they carried would be confiscated on arrival.
"Don't drop your act," Aaran said, rolling his eyes.
"Act…? Oh my, aren't I the perfect docile maid for you, master?"
Analeis laughed playfully, putting a finger on her lips and tilting her head to make a pitiful expression. Aaran could only sigh internally and ignore her.
He had known Analeis long enough to know she wouldn't act like a proper maid. Back at the castle, she actively received training and rewards and was on her best behavior. But now, she had no incentive to be timid and was acting out.
But Aaran had a plan to keep her in check. That's also why he told her how to smuggle cigarettes inside. It was also why Analeis wanted to make the perfect bow because Aaran had promised her a smoke break if she succeeded.
However, he didn't say when she'd get that break.
"One cigarette every day," Aaran said, looking at his reflection in the mirror.
"What—?"
"Every consecutive day—"
"Okay, okay!"
"Okay?"
Aaran gave her a stern look, and Analeis immediately bowed, realizing her mistake.
"I meant, as you wish, Your Highness!" She said, shaking her head. "If anyone heard you talking, they'd think you're some old man and not a child."
"Use formal language—"
Before Aaran could lecture her anymore, there was a knock on the door. Analeis immediately fixed her wrinkled gown and went to check. A butler was there to inform them the entrance ceremony would begin in half an hour and left.
Half an hour. Should I start now?
[It's too early to loiter around, boy.]
Dread's voice echoed in his head, and Aaran nodded. He wanted a proper body for Dread, but it was too soon to cause trouble.
[Besides, living inside your core isn't half bad.]
Wanna get used to it?
[…please look for a body soon.]
Knowing the academy would take away the teddy, Aaran had taken out and stored Dread in his core well before departing. That's why the academy's mages couldn't sense any dark magic from the toy.
As for the body, Aaran had the perfect body in mind to give to Dread. The issue was getting to it undetected. But before all that, there was something else he needed to do.
"Analeis, you can have your break now."
Analeis looked at Aaran strangely. The banquet would begin soon. If she smoked now, people would instantly know from the smell.
Aaran read her thoughts and pulled something from his pocket. It was the candy he bought before entering the carriage with Donovan.
"…what should I do with this?"
"Eat it after you're done. What else?"
Aaran never thought there'd be a day when he would miss the Silver Wolf he knew. Unlike the dumbass before her, she was cold and calculating.
But Aaran couldn't blame her. After all, Analeis grew wiser and cold after being betrayed by the Marki and her people. But this time, none of that would happen. So, he'd have to train her when the time comes. For now, he would let her stay aloof.
"It… smells sweet and rosy. Ah, Your Highness wants to help me cover up the smell!"
Analeis immediately forgot about her grievances and jumped from the balcony. After all, smoking in the fresh air was the best feeling.
Aaran chuckled before turning to the mirror. His eyes gave off a familiar golden light.
[Skill: Hypnotic Gaze is active.]
[Target was hypnotized!]
"Sometimes… you scare me, boy," Dread commented.
"It's about time you get used to this," Aaran said once the light faded. "All preparations are complete now."