Rewriting The Villainess

Two

Days turned into weeks as Lena settled into her new life as young Seraphina Valen, still marveling at the opulence and intricacies of noble life. She awoke each morning to the soft light filtering through the grand windows of her room, greeted by the cheerful voice of her maid, Elara.

"Good morning, Lady Seraphina," Elara said with a warm smile, gently shaking Lena awake. "It's time to rise and shine."

"Good morning, Elara," Lena replied, stretching beneath the silk sheets. Her voice, high and childlike, still startled her occasionally. "What's planned for today?"

"Today, you have lessons with Master Roland and then a garden tea with your parents," Elara informed her, helping her into a delicate dress of lavender silk.

Breakfast was a formal affair in the grand dining hall. Lena, seated between her parents, observed their interactions carefully. Duke Taylon Valen, her father, was a tall man with a stern countenance softened by the occasional glint of warmth in his dark eyes. Duchess Misha Valen, her mother, was the epitome of grace and kindness, her eyes twinkling as she spoke.

"Seraphina, remember to sit up straight," Duke Taylon reminded gently, glancing at her over his cup of tea. "Posture reflects discipline."

"Yes, Father," Lena replied, adjusting her position and managing a small smile.

"How is your magic practice coming along, dear?" Duchess Misha asked, her voice like a melody. She reached over to gently brush a strand of silver hair from Lena's face.

"It's...a bit challenging," Lena admitted, hesitating. "But I'm trying my best."

"That's all we ask, Seraphina," her mother replied with a reassuring smile. "We know you have great potential."

After breakfast, Lena headed to the expansive library for her lessons with Master Roland. The tutor was a patient man with salt-and-pepper hair and a soft, encouraging voice. Today's lesson was on the history of Elyndria's noble families.

"Lady Seraphina," Master Roland began, adjusting his spectacles, "can you tell me the significance of the Valen family in Elyndria's history?"

"The Valen family has served the royal family for generations," Lena recited, remembering her notes from the game. "We hold considerable political influence and have vast estates across the kingdom."

"Excellent," Master Roland praised, nodding approvingly. "And what is the primary responsibility of the Valen family?"

"To support and protect the crown," Lena replied. "And to uphold the laws and traditions of the kingdom."

"Very good," Master Roland said, smiling. "Your understanding of your family's role is crucial. Remember, knowledge is as powerful as magic."

In the afternoons, Lena would practice her magic in the garden, under the watchful eye of Caspian, her young friend and personal butler. Caspian was a prodigy, his magical abilities far surpassing those of his peers. He had dark hair and silver eyes that shone with a quiet intensity.

"Hold your hands steady, Seraphina," Caspian instructed, his voice gentle but firm. "Focus on the energy flow."

Lena nodded, concentrating hard as she tried to conjure a small flame. A flicker of light appeared in her palm before sputtering out.

"I did it!" Lena exclaimed, a triumphant grin spreading across her face.

"You did indeed," Caspian replied, a rare smile crossing his lips. "You're improving quickly."

"Thanks to you," Lena said, feeling a surge of gratitude. "I couldn't have done it without your help, Caspian."

"It's my duty and pleasure to serve you, my lady," Caspian said, bowing slightly, but there was a genuine warmth in his eyes.

One afternoon, while practicing in the garden, Lena was startled by a familiar voice.

"Impressive as always, Seraphina," said a boy's voice. Lena turned to see Adrian, her betrothed, watching her from the garden gate. Adrian had tousled blond hair and green eyes that sparkled with mischief.

"Adrian!" Lena called, waving him over. "What brings you here?"

"Just visiting," Adrian replied with a grin, climbing over the garden wall with ease. "I heard you were practicing magic. Mind if I watch?"

"Not at all," Lena said, feeling a mix of embarrassment and excitement. "But don't expect too much. I'm still learning."

"You're doing great," Adrian said, settling on the grass beside her. "Better than I'd be at your age."

Caspian cleared his throat, shooting a disapproving look at Adrian. "If you're going to stay, don't distract her."

"Oh, don't be such a spoilsport, Caspian," Adrian teased, winking at Lena. "I promise to behave."

The dynamic between Adrian and Caspian was always intriguing to Lena. They were both close to Seraphina, yet their personalities clashed frequently. Adrian's carefree nature contrasted sharply with Caspian's serious demeanor, yet they both shared a deep loyalty to her.

As the days passed, Lena found herself participating in more formal events, like garden teas and small gatherings with other noble families. It was at one such gathering that she met Crown Prince Lucian for the first time. The prince was a striking figure with jet-black hair and piercing blue eyes, radiating authority even at a young age.

"Lady Seraphina," Prince Lucian greeted her, extending a hand with a graceful bow. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"The pleasure is mine, Your Highness," Lena replied, curtsying as she had practiced. She was acutely aware of the eyes of the court on them, every gesture weighed and analyzed.

"I've heard much about your talents," Lucian said, his gaze assessing yet kind. "I look forward to seeing them firsthand."

"I will do my best not to disappoint," Lena said, her heart pounding slightly.

As they conversed, Lena couldn't help but recall the prince's character from the game. He was noble and just, often the voice of reason in the court. Yet, despite his charm, Lena felt no romantic inclination towards him. To her, he was a character in a story, a key player in a narrative she knew well.

Later, she encountered Amelia, the heroine of Eternal Reverie, during a game of hide-and-seek organized for the younger nobles. Amelia was a bright and cheerful girl with golden hair and emerald-green eyes, her laughter like a melody that brought joy to those around her.

"Found you!" Amelia exclaimed, giggling as she uncovered Lena behind a large tapestry. "You're really good at this, Lady Seraphina!"

"You too, Lady Amelia," Lena replied, smiling. "It's more fun playing with you."

"I think we'll be great friends," Amelia said, her eyes sparkling with innocence and warmth.

"I hope so," Lena said softly, feeling a pang of protectiveness toward the girl. She knew the challenges Amelia would face in the future, and she wanted to be there for her.

One evening, as Lena practiced her magic in the garden, she felt a presence beside her. Turning, she saw the mysterious boy with red hair and golden eyes—the one who had appeared in her garden before.

"Kael," Lena said, recalling his name. "Why are you here again?"

"Just observing," Kael replied with a mysterious smile. "You're progressing well. I look forward to seeing what you'll do with your second chance."

Lena frowned, still unsure of his intentions. "What do you mean by that?"

"All in good time," Kael said, his eyes gleaming with ancient knowledge. "Just remember, you have the power to change more than just your fate."

Before she could ask more, he vanished, leaving Lena with a sense of curiosity and determination. This world was now her reality, and she was determined to navigate its challenges and protect those she cared about.

As Lena continued to adapt to her new life, she felt a growing sense of purpose. The threads of fate were already weaving a new and unpredictable tapestry, one that held the promise of redemption, love, and a brighter future for Seraphina—and perhaps, for Elyndria itself.