The Greatest Villainess (Completed)

Chapter 24

As Sebastian had instructed, I discreetly made my way to the back of the palace, following the same hidden path we had used before. The shadows of the towering walls seemed to swallow me as I moved swiftly and quietly. Soon, I reached the edge of the palace grounds and stepped into the dense forest that bordered it. The air was cool, the scent of earth and leaves thick around me, and the faint sound of rustling branches filled the air. My eyes darted from tree to tree, my senses heightened.

I frowned, my brow furrowing. Where is he now? I thought as I continued deeper into the woods. Each step was careful, deliberate. My hearing was sharp, alert to the slightest noise. I could not afford to be careless. This could very well be a trap, and I needed to be prepared for anything.

I scanned the area cautiously, my hand subtly inching toward the dagger hidden in my cloak. Suddenly, a soft crick echoed from behind me. I spun around, my heart momentarily racing, only to exhale in relief when I saw who it was.

Sebastian stood there, his usual smirk playing on his lips, his arms crossed over his chest. "You seem unusually alert," he said, amusement dancing in his eyes.

I rolled my eyes at him, irritated by his tone. "Make sure this isn't a waste of time," I retorted, my voice cold and commanding. There was no room for patience in this situation. I could have other pressing matters to attend to, and I didn't appreciate being kept waiting.

He chuckled softly, his arrogance never failing to show. "Too impatient, Your Majesty," he teased, his words laced with a playfulness that only made me grit my teeth.

I took a deep breath, forcing myself to remain composed. Losing my temper now would only give him more satisfaction, "I'm not here for games, Sebastian," I said, my tone clipped.

His smirk grew wider, and without another word, he stepped aside, gesturing toward the trees behind him. "Then, allow me to introduce you to the Shadow Warriors."

I blinked, momentarily taken aback by his words. Before I could ask what he meant, figures began appearing from behind the trees. They were dressed in pitch-black cloaks, their hoods drawn low, concealing their faces. I marveled at how silently they had appeared, their movements so fluid, I hadn't sensed them at all.

They moved swiftly but with such grace that the leaves underfoot didn't even crunch. As they lined up before me, I could feel their presence-silent, disciplined, and formidable.

"Shadow Warriors," Sebastian announced, his voice firm and full of authority, "I present to you your Master-the Empress."

I was taken aback once more as, in perfect synchronization, the warriors raised their hands and pulled back their hoods. Their faces were revealed, and just as I had suspected, they were all women. Their expressions were stoic, eyes sharp, and their postures radiated strength and readiness. There was no hesitation, no doubt in their movements.

I was impressed. Every single one of them looked as if they had been trained for years in the art of war and stealth.

In perfect unison, they dropped to one knee, bowing their heads low in submission. Their voices rang out together, strong and unwavering, "We, the Shadow Warriors, are honored to stand by your side, Your Majesty!"

A slow smile crept onto my face. Their loyalty was unquestionable, their discipline undeniable. This was exactly the kind of force I needed-silent, deadly, and completely under my command.