5.2 Control

As you are led through the lengthy hallways that encompass your estate, the feeling of apprehension returns. Something is tugging at the back of your mind, making you feel uneasy. As you arrive before one of the large meeting chambers, you briefly think back to the realistic dream from before. The alluring thought of maintaining control over the domain has been slowly creeping to the forefront of your mind. While being with Nikias was more than eventful, you cannot help but wish for something more. Setting these thoughts aside, you brusquely enter the room before you.

Your confident attitude falters when you are met with the unexpected sight of a stranger. A young man stands at the far end of the room. His short cut hair is light in color, as are his piercing blue eyes. His tall form is lean but athletic and slightly tan. Glancing over him warily, you hesitantly progress further into the area. Unfamiliar guards stand at the man's sides, making you increasingly aware of the lack of your own men. "Empress Kora." The man greets you casually, after casting a brief look in your direction. An odd feeling of unease spreads through you as the stranger moves in your direction.

"I feel as though I should know who you are." You begin slowly, maintaining your ground in spite of your instincts. "However, I cannot say that I do." An unnerving grin tugs at the corner of the man's mouth at your confession. "It seems you were not informed of my arrival then." The man replies, his voice dripping with condensation. "I am Aurelius, cousin to Nikias and the unfortunate Alexius." Your eyes widen slightly at news of another relation to the Emperor. "And you are here for..." Your voice trails off absentmindedly when the young man stops before you. His lazy gaze momentarily looks over your figure before looking away dismissively.

"I am here for my cousin's enthroning." He states after a moment, sounding increasingly bored. Despite his young age, there is a cold and almost weary air to the man. The feeling of unrest only continues to grow as you are **** to remain near the indifferent being. Growing somewhat annoyed by the situation, you speak uncensored. "You are somewhat early, considering there is no date set." Aurelius' eyes slowly return to meet yours. His deep stare is uncomfortable, however, you find yourself unable to look away. "I imagine my cousin will wish to commence as soon as possible." He responds abrasively, his gaze still carefully examining you as he speaks.

Feeling all the more irritated, you let out a sharp exhale. The reminder of Nikias' inevitable claim to the throne is hardly welcomed. It had not occurred to you that the arrangement would progress so quickly. "If that is all you wished to inform me of," You announce briskly while turning to leave. "Then I will be on my way." The man doesn't move to stop you as you begin walking away. "I must say. '' You hear him muse aloud as you continue towards the door. "I did expect more." Unable to ignore the obvious bait, you pause briefly upon reaching the exit. Turning to glance at Aurelius somewhat wearily, you reluctantly ask, "What do you mean?"

The young man's eyes rake over your form again before he replies. "I heard my cousin was considering abdicating his betrothal for you." He explains lazily, his gaze hanging languidly on your apprehensive expression. "I simply expected more upon meeting you." An angry flush spreads across your face as you quickly realize his implication. Though his opinion should hold no sway in your mind, you cannot help feeling slightly angered by his words. "Though I had not heard of you prior to this conversation." You reply through a clenched jaw. "I must say, my expectations. of you have also fallen short."

Without allowing time for a reply, you quickly exit the room. The door loudly shuts behind you, visibly startling the guard posted outside. Oblivious to anything but your thoughts, you brusquely return to your chambers. This was far from the visitation you had expected. With your current status hanging so precariously, having someone who may potentially try to dissuade your relationship with Nikias is quite worrisome. Troubled with these new worries, you reluctantly return to your expected duties.