Celephai nodded to Margrett. This was going to be a very entertaining experience.
"Mistress, I assure you: I shall not act against you or your wishes, whether I am in your presence or not, until such time as I inform you that our contract has ended, and not until then, as I am still under contract."
"As for how I will think of you, I would think an enemy far more worthy if they at least take the steps to defend themselves against a known threat. If you wish to keep me on a leash, physical or not, this is entirely your decision as of this moment. I will do as you say."
She took a step forward and put a hand on Cel's shoulder.
You know I couldn't do that. You're not a slave. I know you wouldn't care much how I treat you, but I would care. She thought for a moment, and her look of honesty cracked a bit.
Mistress. I like that. For now, though...let's just go with "very close enemies."
She looked down, then back up, biting her lower lip a little.
But keep the "Mistress" thing up, I like that. We'll keep that bit.
Cel gave a slight bow, smiling wryly. The plan was set in motion now, and there was very little that could stop it. Now she needed merely to be patient and wait for the proper time. She could play the servant, as she had for billions of years before she'd come here, but now it was for a new and sinister purpose.
"Very well, Mistress. What shall be my first duty, then?"