They called me a traitor.A witch. A snake in silk. A villainess born to rot in flames.
They bound me to the stake in the capital square, enchanted iron chains searing into my wrists. The crowd screamed for blood. Spit and stones rained at my feet. But I did not scream. I did not cry.
I only looked at him.
Prince Caelum Ignis. Draped in royal blue, standing at the edge of the square. His silver eyes met mine—and turned away. Cold. Indifferent.
So I smiled.
They thought the fire would end me. That Elira Winterose would vanish in smoke and ash.
But just before the flames devoured me, I saw a vision—She stood on the royal balcony, dressed in the gown that was supposed to be mine.Golden curls. Perfect posture. A sweet, radiant smile.
Elena. My sister.She extended her hand and received the prince's engagement ring, flawless and adored.
So that was it.I was never the only pawn. Just the first to be sacrificed.
If I get another chance... I won't forgive anyone.
I gasped.
No fire. No chains. No crowd.
Only velvet sheets. Golden sunlight. The scent of roses.
I sat up, heart pounding. My hands—unburned. My body—whole.
"My lady? Are you awake?""Today's your first day at the Royal Academy."
Clara.My maid. Still young. Still innocent.She hadn't seen me die yet.
I stepped onto the floor. My fingers trembled, but my mind was razor sharp.
"Prepare my robes. I'll leave in ten minutes."
"Y-yes, my lady!"
As Clara rushed out, I stood by the window. In the distance, the spires of the Royal Academy shimmered in the morning sun.
This time, I won't bow to love. I won't be the family's sacrifice. I won't be silent.I'm back.