"Welcome, Lord Alexander."
Looking at the multitude of high-profile individuals showing respect to Alexander brought a bright smile to Aaron's face.
'That's what I'm talking about,' Aaron thought smugly. 'They know who the boss is…'
'I guess you're satisfied,' Alexander's voice echoed in his head, making Aaron turn to look at him.
He saw his brother flash a small smile his way before taking another step, then another, and another. With every step he took, Aaron was pulled along until he fell into a natural rhythm.
They couldn't lose face now that they were here. The trio finally arrived before the leaders and Council members, who still had their heads lowered.
"Thank you," Alexander replied calmly, gesturing for everyone to rise. "Looks like everyone is here…"
Alex looked at the various expressions, appreciating the looks he was receiving — good or bad. After a moment of glancing around, he focused his gaze on the new member of the three heads.
"Lord Alexander," Lady Irene replied, bowing once again. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you ."
"Come with me," Alex nodded and took another step forward, prompting the other two heads to step aside and make way for him and his entourage.
The Council members and caretakers did the same, creating a clear path for the three VIPs before falling behind, with the three heads following ahead of the others.
As for the security forces Alex brought along, they remained in place for a minute or so more before breaking into smaller squads, adding to the security forces, not that anyone would be stupid enough to cause trouble.
In the back, Lord Baltor gnashed his teeth in anger. When Alexander's gaze passed him, there were no signs of recognition in his eyes, almost like he didn't recognise him. Yet, Alex had the audacity to appear here as if he owned the Council. 'Who made him the boss?'
"I became the boss when I became the Universe Lord," Alexander replied, leaving everyone confused.
Lord Baltor, however, had all the colour drained from his face. His steps faltered at that moment, catching the attention of the others.
One of the Council members asked, receiving a quick nod from the frightened Councilman.
Lord Baltor replied with a stutter. Looking back at Alex, he wondered what he meant by 'Universe Lord'. Was it a title he gave himself, or was there more to it?
He was itching to find out. At the same time, he was too proud to ask the boy anything personal.
"If you say so…" The concerned Council member shook his head, continuing ahead.
Most of them did not understand what Alexander meant. However, those who were his vassals and knew of his ability to read surface thoughts quickly connected the dots.
'Hah…' Basso couldn't help but sigh inwardly and resumed his steps behind Alexander. 'You guys are lucky to still be part of the Council.'
'Don't sweat the small stuff,' Alex replied to his thoughts as well, making him chuckle slightly. Naturally, it wasn't missed by the Venerable level beings around.
Reaching the Grand Hall, Alex turned around. "Council members, you can proceed to your seats. I'll be joining you soon."
His gaze fell on Lady Irene and the other two heads, making them understand he wanted to have a word with the three heads.
Alex directed his gaze towards Lord Lucas, then turned to Julia and Aaron. He gestured for them to follow Lord Lucas, who had already arrived before them.
"Come on, you two. Let me show you to your seats." Lucas took his daughter's hand and guided her and Aaron towards the main chambers.
The caretakers had already dispersed moments earlier, going back to perform their duties. Final checks needed to be done.
"Let's go." Turning around, Alex led the way to the private space reserved for only the three heads.
The way he walked with the confidence of someone who knew their way around left Lady Irene slightly surprised.
'There's a lot I don't know about him,' the woman realised, swallowing imperceptibly.
Soon, the four arrived at the private space. The three heads waited for Alex to sit before they came to stand before him, almost as if it was the most natural thing to do.
Naturally, Lady Irene mostly followed the lead of the other two, not sure how to act around Alexander.
While it was referred to as a private space for the three heads, the area was more akin to a resting space where they could sit and engage in brief conversations. A centre table with sofas lined in a circular order decorated the room, adding a homely touch to the place.
"Please…" Alex gestured for them to take their seats. He couldn't be the only one sitting.
Lady Irene was given the pleasure of sitting directly before Alex. After all, this meeting was all about Irene.
"Lady Irene Proudstar," Alexander began after giving everyone a moment to relax. He sat forward, crossing his fingers together. "Tell me about yourself."
Alexander already knew all there was to know about the One-Horned pretty lady. However, he wanted to hear from her directly.
Lord Basso and Jaseph weren't sure why Alexander was asking such a question. Although it sounded like a typical question you would hear in a job interview, there had to be more to it. They both looked at their co-head and waited for her response.
"Thank you, Lord Alexander, for giving me the pleasure of meeting you." She began with a nod of acknowledgement, Alex doing the same in return.
Lady Irene showed no signs of nervousness before Alex, showcasing her ability to stay calm in these situations — she wasn't chosen for no reason. Like her companions, she didn't expect such a question.
Regardless, Alexander had thrown the question her way. Taking a moment that lasted less than a second, the woman gathered her thoughts and sat up straight with a confidence that could only be portrayed by leaders.
"I want to be strong…" Irene said assertively.
"Ooh…" Alex revealed a slight smile. "Doesn't that sound selfish to you? After all, you were chosen to represent the people."