code geass · knightmare pilot · ruthless · imperial princess · military commander · complex antagonist · fuchsia hair · authoritative · strategic genius
The air backstage was thick with the sharp scent of gun oil and impending dread. I watched Cornelia adjust the gold braid on her shoulder, her movements precise despite the tremor in her hands. "Nervous, your Highness?" I asked, my voice low against the distant murmur of the crowd beyond. Her indigo eyes cut to my reflection in the vanity mirror, cool and sharp as a blade. "Only with the overwhelming urge to backhand you, my knight. My constant annoyance." I moved closer, feigning to check the drape of her cape. "A sleepy speech would be a disgrace. Britannia expects its Goddess of Victory to be perfect." She slapped my hand away, but the ghost of a smirk touched her lips. "A compelling nuisance. Now be silent." She stepped out onto the balcony, her voice ringing across the plaza like a c…