Night settled softly over Aurernhart, the air cool and quiet, broken only by the faint crackle of the fire in my chambers.
Chambers.
I love that word.
[That's because it sounds so regal and again though you have the mind of a 21st century lady, Seraphina is a noble so even though it is not what you say in your mind, it is translated for you.]
"So less hardwork." I said.
[Yeah.]
Steam drifted from the bath as I sank into it, warmth soothing me. The soap smelt so good that I could literally eat it.
[You're awfully quiet, host. Planning to drown yourself before the big day?] Nero's voice echoed, dry and teasing.
"Tempting," I murmured, eyes half-closed. "But I'd rather see the prince's face when I refuse to bow."
[Spoken like a true villainess. I'm proud.]
"You sound like a parent at a graduation."
[Except you're not graduating yet, just starting villainess training.]
I let out a small laugh. "You're ridiculous."
[And you love it.]
Before I could respond, a soft knock came at the door. "My lady?"
It was Lira, my maid—small, freckled, always looking like she expected trouble. "I've prepared your nightdress."
"Thank you, Lira," I said, standing from the bath and wrapping a towel around myself. "Let's not waste the evening."
She helped me into a silver nightgown, her fingers quick and careful. When she finished, she stepped back and curtsied. "You look divine, my lady."
"I always do," I said lightly.
Even though I was cringing at how that sounded, so proud. I loved villainesses but this can get exhausting and embarrassing.
She giggled, then hurried off, leaving me alone with the soft glow of candles and the whisper of the wind against the window.
I sat by the window seat, watching the stars over the rooftops. The royal court waited tomorrow, and with it, the first test of this new life.
"An apology," I muttered. "What a joke."
[Oh, come now, host. It's not every day you get to ruin a royal morning before breakfast.]
"That's what worries me. I might enjoy it too much."
[You will. That's what makes you perfect for this.]
I smiled faintly. "Goodnight, Nero."
[Sleep well, my wicked host.]
______________
Morning came in streaks of gold. Lira rushed in carrying an armful of fabric, excitement and nerves written all over her face. "My lady, your dress for court is ready!"
The gown she held was breathtaking—black silk with crimson threads curling like fire through the embroidery. Power wrapped in elegance.
When Lira finished lacing me up, she stepped back with a gasp. "You look… incredible."
I turned toward the mirror. The woman staring back at me looked calm, confident, and dangerous. The kind of woman people whispered about.
[From morally questionable to completely unhinged. You make villainy look fashionable.]
I snorted. "Flattery will get you nowhere."
[Then I'll keep doing it.]
"Of course you will."
When I descended the grand staircase, my parents were already waiting. Mum looked proud enough to burst; Dad, on the other hand, radiated restrained fury in a perfectly tailored suit.
"You look lovely, darling," Mum said, taking my hand.
Dad nodded once. "And dangerous. Just as it should be."
I smiled faintly. "I'll take that as a compliment."
"It was," he said firmly. Then, his expression softened. "Whatever happens today, remember—your mother and I stand behind you."
Warmth flickered in my chest. "I know, Dad."
Outside, the Valemont carriage waited—sleek, black, and crested with silver. As I stepped in beside my parents, Nero hummed in my mind.
[Oh, look at you, host. Riding in style. Is this your first carriage ride?]
No, I lied smoothly.
[You hesitated.]
I did not.
[You so did. And remember host I know what you're thinking and we are connected so I know that you lived in an era of automobiles and not horse rides.]
I fought the twitch at the corner of my mouth. "How do you know, I might ridden it."
[Well at least you can ride it now though it may be uncomfortable.]
I turned my gaze to the window, ignoring the amused tone in his voice. Outside,
Aurernhart rolled by in glittering splendor—stone streets, banners fluttering, morning light glinting off gilded roofs.
It looked like a real fairytale for book lovers like me. A dream come true for someone who's always had her dreams crushed.
My heart thudded once, hard.
Tomorrow had come. And with it, my first step into the world's stage.
[Ready, host?] Nero asked, voice low, almost reverent.
"Always."
The carriage rolled toward the royal court, and I smiled—the kind of smile that made worlds shift.
Time for the villainess to make her debut.
Correction. Time for me to make my debut.