Rewriting The Villainess

Five

Lena had adjusted to her life as Seraphina Valen over the years, learning to maneuver through the social intricacies of Elyndria. Now at sixteen, she stood on the brink of her official debut, a pivotal event marking her entrance into society. As Seraphina gazed at her reflection, the young woman who looked back at her had transformed. Her silver hair cascaded in elegant waves, and her purple eyes shimmered with anticipation.

A soft knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. Elara, her head maid, entered the room, her expression gentle but firm. "It's time, Lady Seraphina," she said with a respectful bow. "Your father awaits you in the main hall."

Seraphina took a deep breath, smoothing her gown before following Elara out of her room. The corridors seemed longer today, filled with a sense of foreboding and excitement. As they approached the main hall, the murmurs of the gathered nobles grew louder. Her father, Lord Valen, stood waiting at the top of the staircase, his presence commanding and dignified.

"Father," Seraphina greeted him, curtsying slightly.

Lord Valen offered her a rare smile, his eyes softening. "Seraphina," he said, extending his arm to her. "Shall we?"

She nodded, slipping her arm through his. Together, they descended the grand staircase, the murmurs in the hall falling to a hush. The nobles turned their attention to the pair, eyes fixed on Seraphina, assessing and admiring the young lady she had become. Her father's voice echoed in the grand chamber as he announced, "I present to you my daughter, Lady Seraphina Valen, on the occasion of her sixteenth birthday."

The room erupted in applause, and Seraphina maintained her poise, smiling graciously. As she walked down the stairs, she couldn't help but reflect on her circumstances. This moment was not just a debut but the beginning of the story she knew all too well—the game's story was about to unfold, and her journey to the prestigious academy where the events would take place loomed on the horizon.

After the formalities, Seraphina mingled with her friends. Caspian stood nearby, his dark hair neatly combed, and his silver eyes shining with approval. He had become an indispensable friend and confidant over the years, despite his official role as her butler. At Seraphina's request, her father had allowed Caspian to attend the event, recognizing his importance in her life.

"You look beautiful tonight, Lady Seraphina," Caspian said with a warm smile.

Seraphina returned the smile, feeling a sense of ease in his presence. "Thank you, Caspian. I'm glad you could be here."

Adrian soon joined them, his blond hair catching the light as he moved with a confident swagger. His green eyes sparkled with mischief, a stark contrast to Caspian's calm demeanor. Over the years, Adrian's childhood teasing had evolved into a more flirtatious charm, yet the competitive edge with Caspian remained.

"Happy birthday, my lovely fiancée," Adrian declared, taking her hand, twirling her around, bringing her back to his chest and wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her into a tight embrace, "Though I must say, you're more radiant than all the decorations here."

"Thank you, Adrian," Seraphina replied, her cheeks tinged with a blush, as she wasn't used to Adrian's enduring compliments.

Adrian's expression turned playful as he cast a sidelong glance at Caspian. "Caspian, you're lucky to be here. But do remember, I'm the one engaged to Seraphina."

Caspian chuckled softly, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Of course, Lord Adrian. I wouldn't dare forget."

Their exchange was interrupted by the arrival of Lucian, who carried himself with his usual air of reserved authority. His jet-black hair and piercing blue eyes gave him a striking presence. He greeted Seraphina with a polite nod, his demeanor unchanged over the years but more open with her now.