The guard returned not long afterwards, his hurried footsteps echoing throughout the throne hall. His pupils were dilated, as if a scythe had been placed over his head, and if he arrived even a second late, that blade would fall upon him.
The moment he entered the throne hall, he immediately lowered his head, approaching the centre while keeping a respectful—and fearful—distance from the Scarlett Duchess.
Nivelle briefly glanced at the books, noting them inwardly before turning, her gaze completely fixed upon the scarlet-haired woman.
"Take them... and get lost."
Her voice echoed coldly throughout the hall.
Valentina didn't even spare her a glance.
Without saying a word, she stepped down from her floating throne.
Her feet soundlessly touched the marble floor, her movements as graceful as ever, as though she had never caused the chaos within the castle just a few minutes earlier.
