☀️ Arselia and Akonia

- It's a bit sad... Not to see comrades during such an important period for everyone...

During her short time among the ranks of Carneol, Alaria had the impression that it was normal for Kiliki, and the others had already gotten used to it. It was a peculiarity of the Hellesian mentality, which no one took offense at. However, the others had known the cat longer than she had, so there was not much point in voicing these thoughts. Erefir could handle it herself. However, this did not mean that the Tanarian herself did not agree with the warrior.

- Could you please allow me to read them? The Imperial Archives are unfortunately gone now. Don't worry, I have a high reading speed.

"Oh, these warriors, don't give them anpan, give them books to read! He seems like a restrained and polite guy, but he doesn't hesitate to make such requests. Actually, it's a useful quality in life."

- Suspicious!... But okay, I understand. If you allow, I can help you tidy up or even become your personal maid. What do you think?!

"Congratulations, Erefir, you've found your own personal mini-Metarma."

- Nice to meet you, Rock! - Laikos greets the hammer. - He-he! Just kidding.

Although simple, there was something endearing about this sincere humor of the giant, which could not help but bring a warm smile to Alaria's face.

Since Erefir was doing perfectly well with the tour without any outside help, and it would be strange for the inquisitor to interfere and give advice, explanations, or solutions, while the three guests wandered around the headquarters, she decided to take care of the gifts, even though she stayed nearby. Time is a valuable resource, so it was not worth wasting it. The first on the list was a gift for Her Majesty, but before the gift for Aiyano, it would be worth taking a look at a certain place for safety.

For many outside observers, Naria probably looked like a person who had everything: beautiful, rich, more influential than anyone in the empire, and also endowed with divine powers. One could dedicate a song to the greatness of the Empress herself or her past singular life. Another person could draw a portrait, similar to the one hanging in the hall now. Someone, a little more resourceful, could present a gift depicting the former emperor, who perished in the recent tragedy. In general, the latter idea for a gift was quite good, but Alaria did not consider herself a person capable of a worthy embodiment of this idea. And singing praises to Purian is better left to someone like Erefir, who will do it sincerely and from the bottom of their heart.

The inquisitor chose a slightly different approach, different from the luxurious dresses or expensive jewelry that Her Majesty could easily afford. If she wanted to make a good gift, she needed to look at Naria not as an empress, but as a person, with her own desires and dreams. In this regard, it was somewhat easier for Alaria, since her loyalty was based on personal deeds, and not on the status of the reborn Akonia. It is difficult not to feel gratitude towards someone who gave you a new life. And what could be given to her as a person, apart from the imperial status? Unfortunately, Naria was a restrained and secretive woman, who was not easy to approach, but the interview destroyed by Despair gave some food for thought. For example, that she valued a family atmosphere far from the imperial luxury. This was also evident in her spontaneous decision with the new princess.

It seemed as if the new empress wanted something completely different from what had fallen on her shoulders. And this would not be so surprising if you were a damn demigoddess at the head of the most powerful empire on the face of Anuzish. And the gift should be something that gives a feeling of this comfort, at least in theory. For example, a small model of a quiet and comfortable house, surrounded by nature. Alaria was capable of creating something like this, and doing it well, as she understood construction, fine work, and could decorate cakes. Another use of existing skills in a completely different form, multiplied by the soul invested in the work. The Tanarian sincerely wanted to please her benefactor, after all that she had done for her. There was even a certain symbolism in this - she gave a house to Alaria, and Alaria to her. All that remained was to hope that the result of the inquisitor's efforts would please the empress and that she would feel the emotions and intentions invested in it.


Cozy House