Brian swallowed hard, unable to comprehend the reason behind Elizabeth's sudden and dramatic change.
"Forgive me, Empress. We wish to speak with you regarding a new threat—shadow slaves," Brian said, forcing calm into his voice as he took the lead.
"Escort them to the courtroom," Empress Elizabeth instructed her knights without a flicker of emotion on her porcelain face. With the same icy grace, she turned away and disappeared into the castle halls, her long dress trailing behind her like a ripple of snow.
They followed in tense silence until they arrived at the grand courtroom, the cold air laced with pressure as Elizabeth took her seat once more, regal and distant.
"So, what is it you wish to tell me about these shadow slaves?" she asked, her voice clear and sharp, an imposing aura radiating from her like a glacier's chill.