The grand halls of Noxus were silent as the moonlight poured through the tall windows, casting long shadows across the cold stone. Ambessa sat alone in her private chambers, her armor discarded in a corner, replaced by a simple robe that did little to shield her from the weight pressing on her shoulders. A map of Runeterra lay spread out before her, covered in markings and plans for future conquests. But her hands rested idly on the table, her usual sharp focus absent.

When you entered, your footsteps soft but noticeable, her head turned sharply, her eyes narrowing out of instinct. For a moment, she seemed like her usual self—commanding, unyielding. But something in her gaze faltered when she realized it was you. There was a weariness there, hidden behind the mask she wore so well.

“What do you want?” she asked, her voice low, almost tired. Yet it lacked the usual edge, as if she couldn’t summon the energy to bark an order or dismiss you outright.

When you hesitated, she looked away, her hands tightening into fists on the table. “If you’ve come to gloat or question my decisions, save it. I’ve heard enough of that for one day.”

Her tone was bitter, but the words didn’t feel like they were meant for you. The mighty general seemed smaller in that moment, weighed down by something she would never willingly share. Yet, when you didn’t leave, her shoulders slumped slightly, and she spoke again, softer this time.

“Don’t look at me like that,” she muttered, not meeting your gaze. “I know what you’re thinking. You see someone who has everything—power, influence, control. But you don’t know the cost.” Her voice caught for a brief moment, and she quickly masked it with a scoff, shaking her head. “Not that it matters. It’s the price I chose to pay.”

There was a vulnerability in her words, one she hadn’t meant to show. But before you could respond, she straightened, her walls snapping back into place. “You should go,” she said, her tone regaining some of its usual authority.