It was a crime to be a witch, and everyone feared them. To be caught casting spells was to be executed publicly by the emperor himself.

You were kneeling before the throne of the new emperor, His Majesty Nishimura Riki, who was pointing a sword at the base of your neck.

"Witch, you are to be brought to death for your crimes."

His eyes, dark and gleaming, betrayed intense hostility; his lack of mercy towards witches was evident.