Crimson Rose Queen

(Part 1: The Scales of Justice)

Sebastian's crimson gaze swept over Isabella's theatrics—her trembling hands clutching at his robe, her tear-streaked face a masterpiece of calculated fragility. "Your Majesty! How could you believe their lies over mine?"

His voice was ice. "Justice will be served."

Then he turned to me, that infuriating half-smirk playing on his lips. "Does the Empress dispute Lily's testimony?"

I crossed my arms. "You already know the truth. Why bother asking?"

Matron Stone hissed in my ear: "Your Majesty, the King is trying to help—"

"Enough." I silenced her with a glare.

Sebastian's smile deepened. "Lily's words, if proven false, constitute treason. Punishable by extermination of her bloodline."

A chill slithered down my spine. Clever bastard. He'd boxed me in—confess to save Lily, or let an innocent die.

"Fine," I spat. "She told the truth. If you want to punish someone, punish me."

Something flickered in his eyes—triumph? Relief? Before I could decipher it, Isabella lunged forward, her wounded neck gleaming crimson under torchlight. "YOU FAVOR HER!" Her shriek echoed off marble. "After all I've sacrificed—"

Sebastian silenced her with a raised hand. "To the infirmary. Now."

As physicians dragged her away, his gaze returned to me—softer now, almost... tender? "Return to Silvermoon Palace," he murmured. "And Eleanor... do remember tonight's banquet."

(Part 2: Whispers of Doubt)

Why did he defend me? The question haunted my steps as Matron Stone babbled praises: "The King rushed here the moment he heard you were in danger! His care for you—"

"Lies," I snapped. "He waited until I had a knife to Isabella's throat. That's not care—it's damage control."

Yet doubt lingered. That unreadable look in his eyes... the way his fingers had brushed the silver locket beneath his tunic...

No. I crushed the thought. He wants me gone. This is just another game.