Fragments of a Vision

I knew, without a doubt, that the days of my old life were over. Somehow, seeing them now solidified that truth. And, honestly, I liked this place more. My empire. My people. My new family. Still, a small, toxic part of me hoped those three, my old family, would survive long enough to witness my rise to the top—so they could be jealous of everything I'd achieved. Perhaps my thoughts were darker than they should've been, but considering everything I'd endured because of them... I couldn't help it.

"Give them shelter," I said, wiping the single tear from my cheek as I turned away. "After that, I don't care what happens to them." My words were cold, but my heart felt lighter.

I spread my wings, ready to leave, and added, "Also, I'm going to pay a visit to our new puppet."

"Empress, do you want us to follow?" Park Ji-Hoon asked, his twin daggers glinting faintly, as if they were just as eager for action as he was.