Chapter 1: Shadows in the Distorting Empire

The grand halls of the Distorting Empire’s palace were as cold as they were beautiful. High-vaulted ceilings bore murals of triumphs long past, while marble columns shimmered faintly in the dim light of flickering torches. To an outsider, the palace might have seemed a place of splendor, but to Kaela, it was a gilded prison.

Kaela sat on the edge of her bed, fingers trailing over the worn embroidery of her dress. Despite the delicate fabric, its faded colors spoke of her father’s disregard. Her 18th birthday should have been a celebration—a grand ball with glittering lights, music, and laughter. Yet, in the eyes of Emperor Dorian, her father, it was a day to be ignored, her very existence a stain upon his legacy.

A knock on her door interrupted her thoughts. Mirea, her handmaid and one of the few who treated her with kindness, entered with a small tray. The offering was modest: a slice of bread, a single apple, and a cup of tea.

"Happy birthday, my lady," Mirea said softly, placing the tray on a nearby table.

Kaela forced a smile. "Thank you, Mirea. You’re the only one who remembered."

The older woman hesitated before speaking again. "The emperor has summoned you to the throne room."

Kaela's heart sank. Her father rarely called for her, and when he did, it was never for anything good. Rising, she smoothed her dress and followed Mirea through the winding corridors.

As she approached the throne room, the heavy doors creaked open, revealing Emperor Dorian seated on his towering golden throne. His piercing gaze met hers, and she felt as though he could see every insecurity she tried to hide.

“Kaela,” he began, his voice cold and detached, “your future has been decided. You will leave the palace tomorrow.”

She froze. “Leave? Why?”

His lips curled into a cruel smile. “I have arranged for you to marry a nobleman in the neighboring province. It is time you served some purpose for this empire.”

Kaela’s mind raced. A marriage? To whom? Why so suddenly? Before she could voice her protest, Dorian dismissed her with a wave of his hand.

“You are dismissed. Prepare yourself.”

Back in her room, Kaela sat in stunned silence. Her thoughts churned as she tried to piece together the truth behind her father’s decision. A sense of unease crept into her chest.

Late that night, she overheard whispers outside her door—guards speaking in hushed tones about an “elimination” during the journey. Her blood ran cold. Her father hadn’t arranged a marriage. He had arranged her execution.

_________________________________

my God!!!!!!

what's if she gets executed and story end

or

If, She is reborn again..

Hi guys this Vidika the author. This is my firstever only uploaded story hope you guys enjoy

between

fls character intro

Kaela (FL):

The hidden and powerless princess of the Distorting Empire, viewed as a burden and shame by her father.

At 18, her latent destructive powers are awakened, but she has no idea about their true extent.

Gentle and compassionate, she hides her identity in the Holy Empire to escape the trauma of her past and lead a peaceful life.

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***