The End of Your Arrogance - Chapter 36.1

The early morning light caressed the towering structure, casting a resplendent glow on it.

With utmost care, René affixed a lifelike skin to one of Evelyn’s countenances, cleverly concealing the creased region to resemble an authentic burn mark. Weary of constantly sweeping her face with her hands, Evelyn sighed in exasperation.

“Surely, this isn’t genuine human skin,” she mused.

“No, my dear. It is, in fact, pigskin,” René responded matter-of-factly.

Evelyn delicately draped a gossamer mesh scarf from her crown to her visage, obscuring her features. Cloaked in ebony robes, René guided Evelyn to the grand mirror, their reflections mirroring the clandestine intent within their eyes.

“It’s evident that you possess the demeanor of a seasoned alchemist. No one would dare mistake you for a mere madam.”

“But the drivers are not familiar with my face. Will it not arouse suspicion?” Evelyn voiced her lingering apprehension, her fingers wriggling nervously.

“Fear not, my dear. Time itself appears to decelerate in the presence of our endeavors. While it would be ideal to employ the art of transfiguration, magic may prove capricious within the enigmatic depths of the Black Forest.”

“I shall exercise the utmost caution,” Evelyn acquiesced.

After surveying her reflection in the looking glass for a protracted moment, she found solace in her disheveled appearance. Seemingly without reason, she idly toyed with the hem of her robe, realizing its surpassing elegance in comparison to the finest dresses and opulent jewelry she had ever donned.

“Before you depart, let me bestow upon you a voice-modulating incantation.”

“I am grateful for your assistance, René.”

“Shall we bid farewell to the young master?” René suggested, their words melding seamlessly as they weaved their plans.

While Evelyn readied herself, the dialogue between them ensued. Ilya had entrusted her with the task of spending a few days with their son in Matap, and thus, Livell scampered toward her upon catching sight of Evelyn.

“Mother!”

“My darling, my darling!” Evelyn embraced Livell, showering his cheek with kisses, each one a testament to her love. This marked her inaugural journey without her precious child, and thus, her heart was heavy with trepidation.

“Livell, I shall be departing for work. You must heed the counsel of the wizard and the eagle while I am away.”

“Yes!” Livell replied with dutiful obedience.

Jamie, the eagle, and the wizard of the Great Star, had collectively made the decision to care for Livell within the confines of the tower. This arrangement was primarily motivated by a concern for the child’s safety and well-being.

“Your Highness, no matter how Arthur may curse your name, it is imperative that we maintain secrecy regarding Madam’s presence here. Rumors have already spread of her wrongful imprisonment and Arthur’s impending pursuit of the mat,” Rene lamented, shaking her head.

“I regret withholding this information from Arthur,” she confessed.

“Fret not, my lady. These two shall serve as your protectors, assuaging any concerns you may harbor,” Jamie assured her, waking from his slumber. The eagle, with an air of superiority, extended its wings and offered a confident smile.

“Place your trust in us, my lady,” it declared.

Mother and child stood side by side, waving farewell to the pair, who remained steadfast in their vigilance. Evelyn mustered her courage, waving her hands in a brave display.

“I shall return before long,” she declared resolutely.

Rene’s countenance radiated warmth as she gazed upon Evelyn.

“Now, shall we proceed to meet your temporary employer?” she inquired.

“Temporary employment, you say?” Evelyn queried.

A cautious knock resounded against the door, prompting Rene’s invitation to enter.

“Please, come in.”

A tall figure, garbed in a flowing black robe, strode into the room. He discarded his outer garment, revealing a genial smile.

“Rene, are you prepared?” he asked.

“Indeed, I am,” she replied with unwavering confidence.

This time, Nikolas, who had exchanged pleasantries with Rene, directed his gaze toward Evelyn.

“Madam, are you prepared? The time has come to commence our journey,” he declared.

“Oh, Sir Lauren?” Evelyn expressed her bewilderment.

“Why is this person speaking in such a manner?” she questioned.

“Ah, henceforth, I shall be your boss. May I speak informally?” Sir Lauren clarified.

“What? What does that mean?” Rene sought further clarification, her confusion evident.

Nikolas, with a knowing glance at Rene, winked playfully.

“I shall elucidate everything in due course.”

“Of course, Sir Lauren. Shall we allow them to depart first?” Rene suggested.

“Yes, that would be most prudent,” Sir Lauren agreed.

He led Evelyn outside, her countenance etched with perplexity. She securely fastened the robe, obscuring her face from view, and dutifully followed him into the unknown.

Blue, a majestic war horse, grazed peacefully, casting a watchful eye over the surroundings. As Nikolas tenderly ran his hand along the creature’s mane, a powerful steed pressed its face affectionately against his palm.

Evelyn stood there in awe, captivated by the horse’s fierce appearance and endearing actions.

“This magnificent creature shall carry us both today,” Nikolas announced, his voice brimming with quiet confidence.

“Shall I ride a horse alongside Sir Lauren?” Evelyn inquired, her curiosity piqued.

Nikolas continued to stroke the horse’s mane gently, a warm smile gracing his lips.

“A lady mustn’t simply mount a horse or occupy a carriage. Would you perchance prefer to ride alongside the Grand Prince?” he offered.

“Oh, no,” Evelyn quickly shook her head, rejecting the notion.

“Allow me to introduce you to one another over the next few days. I’m certain you’ll grow fond of each other through touch and interaction,” Nikolas suggested.

Evelyn squeezed her eyes shut, hesitantly extending her hand to graze the horse’s mane. As her fingers traced a slow path, the horse sniffed curiously before nuzzling its head against hers.

“From this moment onward, you shall assume the role of a wandering psychedelic alchemist under the auspices of the Knights Templar. Your name shall be Pia,” Nikolas declared, his voice carrying an air of authority.

Evelyn, her hand still lingering on the horse’s mane, raised her gaze.

“Pia? But His Majesty mentioned Erephea.”

“It is one and the same, my dear. Pia is a nickname,” Nikolas clarified.

Erasing his smile, Nikolas locked eyes with Evelyn, his expression grave.

“In truth, Goara Castle does not exist. Pia, the nomadic psychedelic alchemist, that is who you are,” he revealed, each word laden with significance.