Crimson Rose Queen

(Part 1: The Scarlet Gown Gambit)

Sebastian's silver eyes narrowed as he retreated from Silvermoon Palace. I stormed back to the inner chambers, where Nurse Margaret and my maids swarmed me—palms skimming my sleeves, fingertips brushing my jawline. "Your Majesty! Did the King harm you?"

"Relax," I laughed, warmth blooming beneath my ribs. "What could Sebastian Leohart possibly do to the Empress?" A sly grin cut across my face. "Ninglu—fetch yesterday's state gown. We're remodeling it."

The maid blanched as I slashed a finger through the air. "Lower the neckline. Cinch the waist. Slash the hem into ribbons." Her gasp was a muffled symphony. "Make it... dangerous."

Perfect. I pictured Sebastian's icy composure shattering tonight. Underestimate Lynn Sterling? I'll resurrect the street-fighter queen Eleanor buried.

(Part 2: Poisonous Petals)

Alone in the Royal Gardens, I ripped a midnight iris from its stem—Sebastian's favorite.

"Insolent wretch!" A bulldog-faced matron materialized, jowls quivering. "The King will have your—" Her tirade died as she recognized me, knees thudding onto gravel. "Forgive me, Empress!"

"Rise, Matron Stone," I purred, noting how her eyes darted like trapped birds. "Your loyalty is... noted."

She groveled, syrup-thick praises dripping: "Your mercy blesses the Empire! Command me, and I'll scale hell's gates—"

A venomous laugh sliced through the roses. "Lady Isabella," I breathed.

The Crescent Pavilion entourage emerged—Isabella's peach silk gown clashing with her glacier stare. Matron Stone's face bleached bone-white.

Time for the theater. My palm cracked across the matron's cheek. "Fool! Spreading discord when His Majesty demands harmony?" I whirled toward Isabella, all saccharine venom. "Surely you agree such snakes deserve exile, Sister?"

Isabella's smile could frost hell. "But of course. Though first..." Her fingers closed like manacles around my wrist. "You must sample my new tea."