I woke up as the Villainous Empress

Awakening as the villainous empress, she faces a grim future, a brutal end seemingly inevitable. This is a fight for survival, not a romantic fantasy. Trapped in a realm where the scorned Crown Prince, destined to be emperor, is bewildered by her resolve to annul their engagement. Accustomed to adoration and authority, he cannot fathom a woman's rejection, especially one he perceives as a cunning schemer. He interprets her refusal as another manipulative tactic, an elaborate new game. However, the heroine understands the stark reality: this is no game, but a death sentence. Proceeding with the marriage means entering a treacherous political arena, an outcome she is determined to avoid. Her direct, courteous reply to his confusion is simply, "Your Highness, the reason is straightforward. It is because I do not—"