CROWN OF BETRAYAL

The plan was simple — use the villain's own greed against him. But execution would be dangerous. Lily had to become something she never dreamed of: a queen.

Under the King's guidance, she began her training. Every morning, she practiced walking with grace, wearing the heaviest gowns, learning the posture and poise of royalty. By noon, she studied politics, royal customs, and languages. At night, the King quizzed her on how to navigate the court with both elegance and strength.

"You're learning fast," the King said one evening, handing her a goblet of water.

"I have to," Lily said, her gaze hard. "For her. For everyone who suffered."

When the Royal Summit was announced — a gathering of rulers across the region — Lily stepped forward, no longer a servant, but a sovereign.

In the Grand Hall of the Queen's brother's kingdom, Lily entered draped in regal silk. The chatter quieted. Some noblewomen scoffed. One sneered, "Who's this? A beggar pretending to be royalty?"

But when a drunken lord reached to grab Lily, a sharp clang silenced the room. The King's guards struck, slicing off his hand.

The crowd gasped. The villain, seated at the high table, raised his eyebrows, intrigued.

"This kingdom has fire," he muttered.

And his gaze locked on Lily.