The morning sun filtered through the heavy drapes, casting a pale glow across Seraphina's chamber. She sat by the window, her crimson eyes tracing the distant spires of the palace. The royal ball had left her mind buzzing with warnings and threats.
The court was a web, and every thread could snap at any moment.
Suddenly, a soft knock interrupted her thoughts.
A young woman stepped inside—a lady-in-waiting with nervous eyes and a guarded smile.
"Lady Seraphina, may I speak with you in private?"
Curious, Seraphina nodded and followed her to a secluded garden courtyard hidden behind flowering hedges.
---
"My name is Eveline," the girl whispered, glancing around. "I serve in the Duke's household. I know the court's dangers better than most."
Seraphina folded her hands. "What do you want?"
Eveline hesitated, then said, "I want to help you."
The words surprised Seraphina. Trust was a currency she couldn't afford to spend lightly.
"How?" she asked cautiously.
Eveline smiled faintly. "Kaelrith isn't as cold as he seems. He's been watching you closely. If you want to survive—and maybe change your fate—you'll need allies. And I know how to get them."
---
Back inside, Seraphina replayed Eveline's words in her mind. The Duke's favor was growing, but so were the dangers.
She touched the pendant around her neck—a gift from the System that pulsed with a faint blue light.
> [System Notice]
New ability unlocked: Emotional Shield
Description: Protects the host from unwanted emotional influences for a limited time.
The System's warnings about emotional attachments still echoed, but now she had a tool to guard herself.
---
Later that day, Seraphina found Kaelrith in the war room, poring over maps and reports.
"I have new information," she began. "An ally in your household. She says you watch me."
Kaelrith's eyes flickered briefly—something unreadable passing through them.
"Perhaps I do," he replied. "Perhaps I'm curious if you're more than a pawn."
Their gazes locked, charged with tension.
---
Just then, a messenger burst in. "My Duke, scouts report the rebels are moving faster than expected. They plan to strike the eastern border within days."
Kaelrith's jaw clenched. "Then we prepare."
He turned to Seraphina. "You will accompany me to the border. Your survival depends on it."
She swallowed her fear and nodded.
Married to the Final Boss. The game continues.