Chapter 163: Footprints in the Moonlight
"Did you think you could dispose of me so easily, your Highness?" Tribal princess Sylvia smirked, a sharp glint in her eyes.
"If it weren’t for my foolish decision, you wouldn’t even be breathing, let alone standing before me. I made a grave mistake when I crowned my son prince, thinking he would be my loyal instrument. But he... he has become my downfall." The Emperor growled, frustration evident in his voice.
"Yes, your decisions were flawed, but not giving birth to your son. It was believing I would be a mere pawn in your game!I am unlike anyone in your empire, your Highness. Ambition runs through my veins. I crave obedience, I yearn for the respect of the people. And I desire the throne, from where I can rectify the wrongs you have inflicted and lift my people from their knees." Sylvia stepped closer, her voice unwavering.
"Now, fate takes a turn. Perhaps this is the moment to set things right. Don’t you agree?" she smirked, a knowing glint in her eyes.
"What? What are you trying to do?" The Emperor’s bravado faltered, replaced by a tremor of fear.
"Nothing, your Highness, for even I am uncertain of what this vial holds. I am merely following the orders of my master, Duchess Bernice Balliol Agnes, and I hold her decisions in high regard." She smiled as she uncorked the tiny bottle, the silence in the room amplified by the anticipation.
"You dare defy me? I am your Emperor! Kneel before me, you insolent woman!" Despite his fear, the Emperor attempted to reclaim his authority.
Sylvia scoffed. "Kneel before you? You jest, your Highness. My blade would sing a bloody hymn before anyone heard my laughter. The Holy Sword guards this chamber, ensuring none intrude."
"The Holy Sword? He is but a puppet! Don’t be a fool, girl. The Supreme God created him, and his loyalties lie with the divine, not some scheming duchess. He will obey the Supreme God, no matter the consequences, no matter what sin he commits in service. The Supreme God will guide him." The Emperor’s voice cracked with desperation.
"The Supreme God? He follows the Supreme God?" Sylvia faltered, a wrinkle of confusion marring her confident brow.
"Didn’t you know? Ha! Then what do you truly know, you fool?" The Emperor cackled, a fleeting moment of triumph marred by the shadows creeping into his eyes.
"If he serves the Supreme God, then why has the Duchess kept him close, entrusting him with her secrets? It defies logic.She understands the Supreme God’s power, yet somehow broke free from his influence years ago... how?"