Their collective intake of breath was audible. The whispers they had struggled to suppress fell silent under my scrutiny. Each one could see what defiance—or misplaced loyalty—costs.
"This," I continued, voice smooth, measured, and entirely in control, "is a lesson in obedience and respect. If one chooses to undermine the Crown Princess, if one chooses to flaunt orders, there will be consequences. Not tomorrow, not in a week, but immediately."
A few of the older girls shifted nervously, realizing that their carefully maintained smiles could not shield them.
I let my gaze travel slowly down the rows, making deliberate pauses at each nervous face, letting the weight of the moment sink in.
"Every absence from my orders, every whisper of rebellion, every deliberate attempt to undermine authority… will be addressed. Here. Now."
Nero's voice flickered in my mind, pleased. [Host, they can feel your presence bending the air itself. Excellent.]
