Richard immediately saw the Red Star Empress sitting in the middle of her cell with her eyes closed, as if in meditation.
Here, she naturally wasn't wearing her usual gown, but a black robe that covered her entire body. Her red hair looked dry, yet her charm did not fade—her skin still appeared fair and flawless. She didn't seem to have aged at all, even though almost ten years had passed since Richard last saw her.
However, four chains bound her wrists and ankles, restricting her movement so she could barely move at all. These chains emitted a special energy that clearly acted as a seal for a Magus's power.
Of course, there was no point in meditating under such conditions, but perhaps she was doing so simply to preserve her dignity even in captivity.
The moment Richard appeared, the Empress opened her eyes.
Even without her powers, anyone would sense if someone was standing in front of them, even with their eyes closed.
"Who are you?" she asked warily, staring straight at him.
