Everything for the throne

Villainess

The room was filled with a solemn silence as the Emperor Alexander sat with pride, flanked by his loyal knight Alexandria.

The lady standing nearby, her sword at the ready, gazed down at the people below her with an emotionless expression.

Her cold eyes, however, betrayed a deep loyalty. Suddenly, soldiers dragged a middle-aged man, chained and battered, into the hall. The man's weak appearance belied his sharp, sword-like gaze, indicating that he had fought fiercely before being captured.

The noble gathering began to whisper among themselves, their whispers growing louder until the Emperor spoke in his authoritative voice

Emperor Alexander: So, it has been a long time since we met, Master of the Headhunters.

The people gasped at the title, and a few glanced at Alexandria, whose face remained blank.

The Head of the clan scoffed

Clan head: So you still recognize me

Emperor Alexander: How can I forget the man who gave me such a precious treasure?

He said, pointing towards his Knight, who held her sword tightly. Things were spiraling out of her control as she stood helplessly beside the Emperor.

Clan head: I am not scared of death. You can cut off my head for plotting against you, but my people are innocent. Keep them out of this.

The man spoke firmly, unafraid, his love for his people and dedication to his clan evident. He had even sacrificed his own daughter, and now he sought to protect his people from the consequences of his actions against the Emperor.

Emperor Alexander: I will address your people later. For now, I grant my beloved Knight the right to punish you.
The Emperor looked at Alexandria, who remained silent.

Emperor Alexander: Don't disappoint me.

He said with a smile, though she understood the cruelty behind his words. Alexandria walked down, her grip on her sword tight enough to hurt her palm.

Standing before the man, she drew her sword and locked eyes with him, his gaze unwavering.

Clan head: Protect your people, my daughter Grace.

He said softly. Alexandria smirked.

Alexandria: I am not your daughter Grace. She died the moment you sold her to the Emperor. The one standing before you is Alexandria, the knight of the kingdom who follows only the orders of Emperor Alexander.

As she finished speaking, the sword swung, and the man's head rolled to the floor. His once mighty body fell at her feet, blood staining her face, making her appear more fearsome. The sword, dripping with hot blood, remained steady. There was no hint of regret in her calm eyes.

The daughter who had slain her own father for the kingdom was branded the Villainous Knight. Her cruelty became a sensational news story. But what of Alexandria, who merely followed the Emperor's orders? Was it her fault?