Nephis and Asterion had exchanged blows, but these first attacks were merely meant to probe the opponent's defenses. Now that they had tested the waters, the real clash was about to begin.
"...The Star of Ruin."
Asterion's word hung in the air, causing some of the gathered champions to glance furtively at Nephis. She did not show any particular reaction, though, simply continuing to look at Asterion evenly.
In the silence, one of the guests — a Saint of the Fourth Generation — spoke in an indignant tone:
"You are going too far, Lord Asterion! Lady Nephs has never been anything but a stellar example of what Awakened are meant to be!"
A few others grumbled in solidarity.
"You have a peculiar definition of tyranny, my lord."
"Possessing strength and only possessing strength are not at all the same thing!"
"Our lady might be younger than some, but her accomplishments speak for themselves."
Asterion lingered for a moment, then turned to look at the last person to speak.
