CH 185

“Why… are we here?” Though Cecile recognized where they were, she didn’t understand for what purpose she found them standing here. After all, was this not the shop that was closed on their day of arrival in Aluna?

“Well…”

Seeing Estian falter and unable to give a proper answer, Cecile couldn’t help but be bewildered by his unusual behavior. Almost instantly, another pressing question came to mind—why had they come alone? Her husband had always exerted extraordinary effort when it came to her safety. After all, hadn’t he deployed the entire Imperial Guard for their visit to this city? Even when concerns were brought up about emptying the imperial palace of its security forces, Estian had bluntly replied, “Let Kane deal with it.” Yet, now they were venturing out without a single escort?

‘Although in truth it’s more than sufficient with Estian around for safety…’ It was acknowledged that the Imperial Guard were more of a hindrance than a help to the emperor. The reason he’d brought them to Aluna was to serve more as a warning than as actual security. It was like he was declaring, “Better not get any funny ideas with defenses like these!”

Instead of trying to explain himself, Estian took Cecile by the hand and led her towards the shop. It was quiet and showed no signs of occupation, but when Estian gave a couple raps on the door, the figure of a woman emerged from inside after a short while. Looking at the two of them, she opened the door and asked, “Are you two the attendants sent by His Majesty the Emperor?”

Seeing Estian respond with a short nod, the woman stepped aside and said, “Come in. I’m Maggie, the owner of this shop.” Clicking her tongue as she eyed the two of them, she continued, “I was told that my problem would be solved, so I expected some strong knights. Instead, they send a feeble-looking man that seems he’d be blown away by a single punch from me, and an unsightly maid. Good Lord.”

‘She really can’t recognize us?’ Cecile cast a look of surprise at Estian, who gave her a conspiratorial wink. She looked down at the ring slipped on her finger; a similar ring was worn by Estian too. She was told that these rings were made by the archmage and were able to alter the appearances of the ring bearers.

Cecile had been somewhat skeptical when she put on the ring, but it’d been true that no one spared a glance in their direction when they left the villa and headed into the streets. As a result, they managed to reach the pie shop without drawing any attention thanks to the rings. Still, even after they arrived, she was worried that the spell would dispel should they talk. However, seeing Maggie’s attitude, her fears seemed unfounded.

“So Richard can be useful on occasion,” Cecile whispered. Putting herself aside, it was a surprise to see others paying her husband no heed. Even ignoring his looks, Estian possessed an aura that caused others to instinctively shy away, but the ring even seemed capable of hiding that.

“He said that the masking enchantment is a bonus,” Estian murmured, as if reading her thoughts.

They followed Maggie through the shop and into a spacious kitchen, which had clearly been unused for quite some time. There was no warmth and items were piled about, but a lingering sweet smell permeated the air. It was undeniable proof that this kitchen had baked countless apple pies every day until the day they shut their doors. As Cecile salivated over the smell of butter, apples and sugar, Maggie pulled over a chair and sat down.

“So, I read the letter and it said to leave the matter to you two. I won’t be held responsible even if things should fail.”

“Of course,” Estian replied without hesitation.

“You said it yourself, so sign here.” As if she’d been waiting for that confirmation, Maggie held out a piece of paper.

Cecile received the paper and wondered aloud, “A written vow?”