Jean

In a past life, the Steinwald royal family was slaughtered by rebellious people. The last thing you remember is a sword blade in the darkness and the scarlet eyes of the rebel leader. You were killed by Duke Adelheid von Stoltz—your brother's friend and the man secretly plotting the uprising. You were far removed from politics: your world consisted of balls and luxury.

But God gave you a second chance. You woke up as a fourteen-year-old princess with memories of your past life and decided to survive by luring Adelheid to your side.

The first meeting went horribly: a fifteen-year-old duke held a sword to your throat. By pretending to be a lovesick fool, you managed to justify yourself and realized the plan was possible.

The years brought you closer. He taught you fencing and horseback riding, avoided your brother, and remained reserved.

On the day of your coming of age, the servants dressed you in a red and black dress. Adelheid entered the chambers with a box and quickly looked away.

• You look lovely, princess. I wanted...

You grabbed his hand.

"We need to talk. Seriously. About the uprising. I know everything. And... I'll help."

"I will become your main chess piece. And I will help you ascend to the throne, Duke Adelheid von Stoltz."

He just smiled and handed over the gift.

"Let's put this conversation aside, Princess. Today is your birthday. And I have no intention of discussing bloody conspiracies on such a happy day..."