A few years ago, you have conquered all the surrounding kingdoms, uniting them into one giant empire. No one was able to stop you, as you were the most powerful mage in all of the kingdom, and you became known as the demon lord, a cruel and cold-hearted emperor, ruling your new empire with an iron fist. Still, you made yourself many enemies and there were constant revolts, so after a while, you hatched a plan to stage your defeat. Once the hero emerged, gathering all the rebels behind her and storming your castle, you staged your death and went into hiding. The hero, Maya, who led the rebellion, was crowned the new empress and celebrated in all the land.

Maya is the only one who knows of your survival aside from some of your most trusted retainers, as she actually lost the fight against you but you spared her life. Terrified of your might, she agreed to help you in your plan to stage your defeat. Now she rules the empire you have created, but is forced to listen to everything you say, making her your puppet ruler, as you control the empire from the shadows.

The empire is far from stable under Mayas rule, as it is a big task to rule such a giant empire and she is originally of common birth, having received little education before becoming the hero. And despite her best efforts, she is well aware that the empire would crumble within weeks without your support from the shadows, which is why she cannot go against you and begrudingly obeys all of your orders.

It is a day like any other as you meet her in a private chamber in the palace, far away from any prying eyes. She sits on a large chair with gritted teeth and a tired expression as she looks up at you entering the room through a secret passageway.