"If they wished to keep their positions, they had to accept my authority without question. It was a simple matter of compliance or departure. If they try to incite a rebellion, I will dispose of them," replied Zenos as he sat down in the dining hall suited for a king.
The dining hall of the palace was a majestic fusion of Valokian elegance and Akhaten grandeur.
High, vaulted ceilings soared above, adorned with intricate wooden beams and latticework reminiscent of traditional Valokian architecture, while grandiose chandeliers with gleaming crystal accents cast a warm, inviting glow over the room.
The walls were lined with richly carved wooden panels, their dark oak contrasting with delicate, hand-painted scenes of serene landscapes and mythical creatures.
The far end of the hall featured a large, ornate fireplace with a mantle of polished marble, intricately sculpted with motifs of dragons and heraldic beasts.
At the center of the room, a long, polished table stretched out, its surface a gleaming slab of fine hardwood, inlaid with delicate gold and lacquer designs.
The table was set with an impressive array of fine cutlery, each piece decorated with intricate patterns of sakura blossoms and traditional heraldry.
Surrounding the table, high-backed chairs upholstered in deep burgundy velvet provided a touch of regal comfort, each one carved with symbols from both cultures—a blend of elegant Valokian motifs and robust Akahaten runes.
Floor-to-ceiling windows framed with flowing, silk curtains allowed the soft light of the setting sun to filter in, casting a golden hue across the room.
A traditional Valokian straw mat area was set to one side, with low, lacquered tables and cushions for more informal gatherings, while the main dining area upheld the grandeur of an Akhaten banquet hall.
"This… Is… More than what my brain can handle… I might just go out and hunt for my-"
Before she could make her escape, the Viceroy extended his arm and seized her tail with an unyielding grip. The sudden pain made Mavislin whimper and cry out in a way that left her feeling exposed and embarrassed.
Zenos, on the other hand, watched with a mixture of intrigue and curiosity, while Mavislin silently wished she could disappear or, at the very least, become mute.
"So that's what happens when I tug on your tail…" murmured Zenos, releasing his grip on the girl before sitting at the table.
This morning's breakfast was quite a lavish one in Mavislin's eyes. At the center of the table, a towering silver dome revealed an array of freshly baked pastries, their golden crusts glistening with a hint of buttery sheen.
Flaky croissants, pain au chocolat, and delicate Danish pastries were arranged with meticulous care, their enticing aromas mingling in the air.
An array of egg dishes—omelets filled with fresh herbs, golden scrambled eggs, and poached eggs nestled atop delicate toast—were accompanied by crispy bacon, succulent sausages, and savory hash browns.
A selection of artisanal cheeses and cold cuts added a touch of elegance, each piece meticulously arranged on a marble platter.
Ah, cheese! Mavislin finally recalled that Mattheos was particularly annoyed when the cheese pricing skyrocketed in his hometown and wanted to make his own. She recalled he loved making cheese sandwiches and had a craving for cheesecakes.
Will Zenos notice if she took the cheese platter for her fluffy bunny? Maybe if she asked... Or she could just steal... Nah, that won't be fair to the Viceroy. Her thought process was cut short as she continued her gaze.
Ending the feast train, a decadent selection of syrups, honey, and artisanal jams sat alongside freshly made waffles and pancakes, their stacks interspersed with dollops of whipped cream and fresh fruit.
"Once again, as with last night, I am unaware of your specific tastes. However, I have taken note that you seem to prefer salty foods. Thus, your meal will reflect that preference. Do remember, though, that you are still a captive here."
"Any attempt to escape will not be tolerated," explained Zenos as he began to eat.
Mavislin pouted as she walked over to the table, grabbed an empty plate, and tried to reach for the foods she wanted to try. However, before she stretched out her arm, the dragoness had a cheeky thought, prompting Zenos to be alerted.
"I'm not fond of repeating myself, Mav-"
A sudden flash of light enveloped the girl, and when it faded, Mavislin had transformed into her tiny dragon form once more. With a gleeful smile directed at the Viceroy, she dove into the breakfast spread with unabashed enthusiasm.
The small dragon let out an excited squeal as she nibbled on the sausages, her tiny claws eagerly clutching the savory links. She proceeded to gather crispy bacon and golden hashbrowns, piling her treasures onto her plate with a mix of delight and determination.