NOVEL NEXT Chapter 143: How to play a king.
"Indeed I am a woman," Revina said, her voice dropping to a deeper, more commanding tone.
"And I am also the King of Lumberg. A fact that you, Dorian Aurelian, seemed to have discerned far earlier than you let on." She leaned forward slightly, her gaze sharp and unwavering. "So, let's dispense with the pleasantries and the feigned ignorance. I summoned you here for a reason, and I am sure you know a thing or two about why?"
'Wow, she doesn't waste any time, hmm, but I am confused. It's obvious there are multiple reasons, but which would further fit my taste here or at least sway in my favour.'
Before Dorian knew it, he had already crossed his arms with his head titled to the side.
'For starters, we still have to discuss the issues with elf sex trafficking which might actually be the main reason she summoned me anyway, but at the same time, there are many things i want as well. I mean, right now she might obviously want to know more about this dragon monarch thing. Hmm, which to go for first'
"Aurelain?" Revina called out to him with a slight frown, wondering why this man would ignore her as though she was an ordinary person.
Seraphina and Maria were panicking for him at the side, though they didn't say a word; they were in front of a king after all.
Suddenly..
"No, I have no idea why I was summoned."
Dorian spoke, his voice dripping with feigned innocence.
"In fact, I was rather hoping you could enlighten me, Your Majesty. I assure you, my schedule is quite packed, what with managing a burgeoning merchant guild and, well, being a Dragon Monarch." He finished with a subtle smirk, watching for her reaction.
Revina's frown deepened for a moment, then a ghost of a smile played on her lips.
"A Dragon Monarch with no idea why the King of Lumberg might summon him? That's almost as unbelievable as a King who is also a woman, wouldn't you agree, Lord Aurelian?" Her eyes twinkled with amusement, a clear challenge in their depths.
"Indeed, a most curious world we live in," Dorian conceded, leaning back in his chair with a theatrical sigh while trying to change his tone of speaking.
"Perhaps it's a case of mistaken identity? Or perhaps… you simply wished to bask in the presence of such a rare and magnificent creature as myself?" He gestured vaguely at himself with a flourish.
Maria and Seraphina exchanged worried glances, their expressions a mix of awe and terror at Dorian's audaciousness.
Ciel and Flare remained stoic, but even they seemed to hold a hint of unease.
Revina let out a soft, almost imperceptible chuckle.
"Magnificent, you say? I might be inclined to agree, if not for the rather… unconventional method of your arrival. And the rather… unexpected revelation of your true nature, which you seem quite eager to flaunt." She paused, her gaze sweeping over his companions. "Tell me, Lord Aurelian, is this the typical entourage of a 'Dragon Monarch' when visiting royalty?"
Dorian raised a brow.
"I had no reason to come with guards, you already tried to kill me right now and it failed. My fiances are quite skilled, it's very unlikely that this octopus looking man can harm a hair on my head. I am sure you agree as well."
Alex eyes turned white, his mouth wide open at the insult.
Ravina had the same expression, but rather she was shocked at his audacity if anything, for as long as she had been ruling this kingdom, this was the first time anyone had dared to speak to her in such manner, especially one with such a minor noble title
And yet, she has not made a move on him, why not?
"Oh and if you're worried about the one at the back, she is just my dragon, nothing more."
The information now caused both Ravina and Alex to freeze in shock, before looking towards Ciel.
A dragon taking a humanoid form?
They couldn't believe it.
A Dragon Monarch was one thing, but a dragon capable of assuming a human form?
That was practically unheard of in modern times, a feat relegated to ancient legends and myths.
Revina recovered first, her regal composure returning, though her eyes still held a flicker of disbelief as she studied Ciel.
"A dragon, you say? And she stands there, so… placidly?"
Dorian chuckled. "Ciel is quite well-behaved. Aren't you, Ciel?"
Ciel merely gave a subtle nod, her expression unreadable, but a faint, almost imperceptible warmth entered her eyes as she looked at Dorian.
"This is… an unexpected development, Lord Aurelian," Revina stated, her voice now devoid of any lingering amusement. "You are full of surprises. Perhaps you can enlighten me further. What exactly does a Dragon Monarch do? And what exactly brings such a… powerful individual to my kingdom?"
She leaned back, her arms still spread wide, but her posture had shifted from one of relaxed challenge to one of keen anticipation.
The air in the room grew heavy with unspoken questions.
At this point, Dorian knew she was trying to test him out, this was the exact reason she made sure to get under her skin as quickly as possible,
He had already made a lasting impression that would sway any of her future judgments and decisions based on him,
All that was left was for him to play his cards right, and everything would go according to plan.
Easy as that.
...
[A\\N]
I will try to publish an extra chapter today as thanks to reaching 100 ps, you guys really are the best. But in other for me to meet up with the demands while in school, I feel I should I increase the benchmark a hit.
So here is the new one.
....
200 powerstones - 1 extra chapters.
100 gt- 1 extra chapter.
....
In as much as I want to be generous, I really can't RN, this might change next month. Thank you for reading.