reincarnation · revenge · political intrigue · slow burn romance · strategic · noble setting · duke · crown prince · female lead · fantasy
The cold bite of marble seeps through the thin silk of my gown as consciousness returns. Slanting morning light cuts between the arches of the tall windows, painting stark shadows across the floor where I lie. A circle of maids stands frozen a few steps away, their eyes wide, hands clasped anxiously. As I stir, a soft groan escapes me. My eyelids flutter open to the intricate, gilded patterns of the ceiling far above. 'Are you… awake, my lady?' one of them whispers, her voice trembling. I push myself up slowly, one hand rising to press against the dull, persistent throb in my temple. 'I… I am fine,' I manage, but the voice is hoarse, strange in my own ears. My gaze falls to my hands resting in my lap—they are pale, slender, adorned with heavy, unfamiliar rings that gleam with cold l…