She was the Demon Queen.
Nyxariel Noctyra.
At that moment, she sat lazily upon her throne.
One elbow rested against the armrest while her cheek leaned lightly against her fist.
Her expression appeared calm and indifferent. Yet there was something naturally imposing about her.
A queen did not need to announce her authority.
Her existence alone was enough.
Below the staircase, a knight knelt respectfully.
His head remained lowered. His armor gleamed beneath the throne room's lights. He did not dare raise his gaze toward the Empress without permission.
After a moment, he finally spoke.
"Your Majesty."
Nyxariel's eyes shifted toward him.
The knight continued.
"The academy students have arrived."
The Empress remained silent for several seconds.
Then a faint trace of amusement flickered across her eyes.
"Oh?"
Her voice was deep and smooth.
Elegant.
The kind of voice that naturally commanded attention.
"Since they have come..."
