I Will be the Villain Instead

The eldest daughter of a ducal house, destined to become the next duchess, Eira Vespera Astraea. She was the sole individual in the empire capable of mastering the dual forces of shadow and ocean, making her one of the most exceptionally gifted heirs in the empire. Such an overpowered being and yet it is foretold that she would meet her end at the tender age of eighteen. This is the identity I have inhabited for over six months now. Eira, once no one but a mere character within a novel, had her fate sealed by the author as the final fuel for her younger sister, the main character, to pursue her desire for revenge. What was once a fictional creation, a world of someone’s imagination, has now become my reality. Here I am, transmigrated into a book I carelessly read out of curiosity. I surveyed my surroundings, a place I had frequented often: my office. The intricately designed space, the disorganized files scattered across my desk, and the cup of tea before me all seemed to blur into one. As I reached for the cup, I noticed my reflection on the tea’s surface. There, within the liquid, was the undeniable evidence of my transmigration. The face that gazes back at me is both familiar and foreign, a paradox of beauty so striking it could make flowers fade. It bears the elegance of perfection—hair like the dark indigo of a star-studded night and eyes the shade of moonlit silver. This is who I have become… I could not help but close my eyes, grappling with the reality of my new identity. Despite the months that have passed, I still struggle to comprehend whether this is truly real. Although I have grown accustomed to this world, it remains clear that this is not where I belong. ‘Knock Knock’ The sound of the knock interrupted my thoughts, pulling me back to the present. “My lady, may I come in?” I opened my eyes to the voice of our butler, Reginald Shamel, a trusted aide of my father who assumes the role of butler. His family has been a loyal vassal of the dukedom since its foundation. “Come in.” I replied briefly. The door opened, and Reginald approached my desk. “A letter has arrived from the Grand Duchess, my lady.” He extended a hand holding a letter sealed with the ducal crest. I accepted it with both hands, already anticipating its contents. In the novel's backstory, there is a chapter dedicated to the final moments of the Astraea Family being together—the return of their parents, only to be summoned back to the battlefield. “The fifteen-year-old Lady Astraea received the letter of their imminent return. The last letter of return they would ever receive in their lifetime.” It was but a single line, a line that marked the beginning of the main character's eternal suffering. With a steady hand, I broke the seal and unfolded the letter, confirming my expectations. Carefully setting the letter aside, I looked up at Reginald, who stood silently, awaiting further instructions. “Uncle, please make preparations for my parents’ return. I will meet them upon their arrival tomorrow.” I said. This will be my first time meeting the Grand Duke and Duchess after their half-year absence. Their return signifies that my birthday celebration will soon be planned. “Yes, My Lady,” Reginald replied, his gaze lingering on me for a moment before he withdrew with a respectful bow. Just before he exited the room, he added, “I shall summon Regina to attend to you, My Lady. It would be prudent to retire early tonight,” and then he departed. I sighed, glancing at the scene outside my window. The night sky, a deep shade of blue, was adorned with heavy snowfall and countless stars, painting a picture of northern beauty. Soon after, Regina, his daughter and soon-to-be my personal secretary, arrived. “My lady, your bath has been prepared.” she announced, assisting me off my coat. “Thank you, Regina,” I responded with a warm smile. “It is my pleasure to serve you, Young Duchess,” Regina replied, guiding me into my chamber. An air of silence enveloped us. Despite the time I had spent here, I remained uneasy in the presence of those who had served the original lady. “May I inquire as to the whereabouts of my sister?” I asked, breaking the silence. I had not seen her since this morning, and I suspected she might be distressed. “The youngest lady has already retired for the evening. She has been asking for you since the morning, Young Duchess,” Regina informed me. I chuckled softly. It was as I suspected. Her silence, coupled with her failure to bid me good night, suggested she was pouting due to my absence. “Regina, what do you suggest I do to make amends with my little sister?” I inquired, my tone light and cheerful. Regina appeared momentarily surprised by my good mood and smiled in return. “I am certain Lady Hera would be pleased with any gesture you make, My Lady. She simply desires your company,” Regina responded. “Oh, I must do something for her, or she will undoubtedly hold a grudge against me,” I said with a teasing tone. My laughter held my only comfort in this place as it drifted away in the silent dark hallway of the mansion.