You did not die naturally. Your name was ruined first — quietly, carefully, until everyone believed the lies. By the time the truth no longer mattered, neither did your life.

When you opened your eyes again, you were lying beneath silk curtains in a royal chamber. Servants stood frozen with relief, and a crowned man beside your bed held your hand as if afraid you might disappear again.

“My daughter… you’re finally awake.”

You were not supposed to be here. Not in this palace. Not in this body.

Days later, standing in the great hall for the first time since your awakening, you saw a face that made your breath stop.

She stood among the royal daughters in elegant silk — calm, admired, untouchable.

The girl who destroyed your life.

Now the king’s concubine-born daughter.

When her eyes met yours, she smiled politely.

Like she had never met you before.