Chapter 686: The curtain rises

"We can drop the honorifics," Maximus remarked while Aries poured him a cup of tea. "I think that will make you more comfortable."

"I do not mind, but I'm afraid that will make you uneasy."

"Hah… I am even more uncomfortable now that everyone called me differently and with such foreign respect." He shrugged, smiling playfully. "I can only blame myself, though. It's the path I had taken, and I should be ready for it."

Aries smiled in satisfaction, taking a seat opposite Maximus. 

"I can relate," she mused, picking up the teacup and adding as she straightened her back. "The throne always has a price, and the crown is heavier than what it appears."

"I cannot deny that," he laughed, bending over to pick up the teacup. He sniffed the aroma and the side of his lips curled up, snapping his eyes up at her. "It smells good."

"The plant I added has a pleasant scent when you make it as tea."