Zenos, usually encased in his imposing armor, was instead dressed in a simple black tank top and matching pants.
The stark contrast of his casual attire against the opulent surroundings only heightened her awareness of his physique.
The tank top clung to his torso, accentuating the sculpted muscles and broad shoulders that were normally hidden beneath layers of metal. His well-defined arms and taut, powerful build were more visible than ever, the black fabric highlighting every contour of his strength.
The casual clothing did little to diminish his commanding presence; if anything, it revealed a raw, unguarded aspect of him that was rarely seen.
His toned physique and confident posture spoke of countless battles and formidable prowess, making it clear that even without his armor, Zenos radiated a potent aura of authority and power.
The dragoness averted her gaze swiftly, desperately trying to gather her scattered thoughts and regain her composure. Her sudden movement elicited a curious look from the Viceroy, who raised an eyebrow in silent inquiry.
However, he chose to remain silent, allowing her the space to collect herself without further comment. The air between them grew tense with unspoken questions, but Zenos made no move to press her, respecting the need for a moment of calm.
"Yea, but you could do that without touching me… Anyways, is this your quarters? Damn… You weren't joking when you said you could pay me double of the bounty on you…" said the dragoness as she glanced around the room.
"It was quite easy to acquire the palace when the leader of this land was easily swayed by coin... And I think in some form, you are as well..."
"Oi! I'd rather be eating a meal than to be dying on the streets! Plus, if the enemy can give me a good fight then it would surely be a fool's move to pass on that."
"Indeed, our worlds may be disparate, but it seems we are united in our objectives."
The Viceroy's private chamber was an opulent space awash in rich, crimson tones, creating an atmosphere of both power and grandeur. The walls were adorned with deep red velvet drapes, their plush texture adding a sense of luxury to the room.
Gold embroidery traced intricate patterns along the edges, catching the light and casting a warm glow. A grand mahogany desk, polished to a high sheen, stood prominently in the center, its surface cluttered with documents and ornate inkwells.
Behind it, a high-backed chair upholstered in scarlet leather offered a commanding view of the room, its dark wood carvings reflecting the room's regal theme.
The floor was covered in a sprawling Persian rug, its reds and golds blending seamlessly with the room's color scheme.
Above, a grand chandelier with crimson crystal droplets hung from the ceiling, its light casting a soft, ambient glow that danced off the rich hues of the room.
The dragoness then realized she was on a massive four-poster bed draped in sumptuous red silk, its canopy and bedding adorned with elaborate gold embroidery.
Tall, dark wooden wardrobes and bookcases lined the walls, their surfaces polished to match the room's opulence.
The atmosphere was one of formidable elegance, the red tones imbuing the space with a sense of both warmth and authority, perfectly suited to the Viceroy's powerful presence.
"I am not one for jest, Mavislin. However, I have just finished compiling the report on the Legion's recent assault on the locals."
"If you wish, you can review it and provide any additional insights or corrections you deem necessary," asked Zenos, gesturing to the small stack of papers at his desk.
"You are indeed a Viceroy, through and through… Fine, could I at least get something to eat? I am famished…" grumbled Mavislin as she got out of the comfy bed and strolled towards the mahogany desk.
"I have already issued orders for the kitchen staff to prepare a meal. Uncertain of your preferences, I instructed them to prepare dishes worthy of my own table."
"Whether it suits your taste is of little consequence—you'll partake in what is served," replied Zenos as his gaze remained fixed on the dragoness in worry.
"Fair enough, I'm not in a position to be choosy… As long as you're not planning to poison me, I'll take whatever food you've got. I can roll with it."
"Perish the thought—I've no interest in such petty tactics when I desire nothing less than seeing you at your peak, fully restored."
The dragoness blinked in confusion, her tail frozen on the spot.
"Huh?"
"Did I say something off?"
"Well, yea… What do you mean by 'you'd desire to see me at my peak?'"
"As I've already stated, my wish is for you to be at your prime—so that when the time comes, we may clash as true rivals."