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Ordinary Souls, Bright Horizons
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Short filmTranscript
00:01When I was 10 years old, my family had gone days without food.
00:03It seemed we were all about to starve.
00:04Father went to town to find a job.
00:06I took four tails of silver from the child broker and sold myself.
00:08On the day I left home, the snow was thick and heavy.
00:10Mother wept as she gave me her only dowry, a velvet flower.
00:12In front of my family, I took two tails of silver and quietly slipped the other two to mother.
00:15I begged her to keep my brother and sister alive.
00:17Father had gone to town to work.
00:18He hadn't returned yet.
00:19Mother stood in the snow with my siblings, bidding me farewell.
00:21It was so cold.
00:21Mother didn't even have a proper coat to wear.
00:23The mule cart carried me farther and farther away.
00:24The storm soon blinded my eyes.
00:25There were 12 girls alongside me, all from our village and neighboring ones.
00:28They were about my age, though we had been bought by the child broker.
00:30At least we had food each day.
00:31Any chores.
00:32I would do chores like sweeping the courtyard.
00:34The Wynn family wasn't a big family.
00:36Besides Mrs. Wynn, there was only one concubine.
00:37She was Mrs. Wynn's maid, who was part of her dowry.
00:38Mrs. Wynn gave birth to three sons.
00:39It's said they were sent to Westmount's famous academy to study.
00:41They rarely saw them.
00:42All three sons were handsome, but the eldest son was the most handsome.
00:45He was like an angel.
00:46The eldest daughter was also born to Mrs. Wynn.
00:48She was 13 that year.
00:48She appeared gentle, but had quite a temper.
00:50The second daughter was born to the concubine.
00:51She was only seven that year.
00:52She was plump and fair, like a little doll.
00:53She also loved to laugh.
00:54Was the youngest in the family.
00:55And has a cognitive disorder.
00:56So everyone doted on her.
00:57The Wynn family did not mistreat their retainers.
00:58After being there for a year, I had put on quite some weight.
00:59Mrs. Wynn gave us 200 coins every month as our pay.
01:01And we would get extra during festivals.
01:03I saved all this money, hoping I could send it home someday.
01:06I enjoyed such a life.
01:08The work was nothing compared to back home.
01:10In my spare time, I learned to knot cords, sewing, and chatted with other maids.
01:13The eldest daughter, Julia Wynn, loved poetry.
01:14Her head maid, Shannon, was kind.
01:16Never stingy.
01:17And taught us to read whenever she had time.
01:18One day, I heard that one of the girls sold to Rivermore with me was beaten to death.
01:21Only then did I realize I was really lucky to work for such a kind family.
01:24Life here was like in a haven.
01:25But misfortune came swiftly.
01:26When I was 14, the patriarch was accused of some unknown crime.
01:29The Wynn family was ruined.
01:29All males and females over 15 were thrown into the death row.
01:31Those married were spared.
01:32The night before the confiscation, Mrs. Wynn returned all the indenture contracts and gave
01:34each servant 10 tails of silver, setting us free with a chance at life.
01:36Most of the Wynn family's servants had been newly bought.
01:38So most of them left in one night.
01:40I held my savings from these years and was about to head home.
01:42But when I looked at Miss Gemma, who was only 9 and was innocent, my heart softened.
01:46The Wynn Manor had been seized.
01:47The Gemma and I had nowhere to live.
01:48She now needed a new name.
01:50So I gave her a new one.
01:51Grace.
01:52She was my sister.
01:53My name was Macy.
01:54Macy Chase.
01:54The Wynn family was held in prison.
01:55Even if I spent all my money, I still wouldn't be able to see that.
01:58I had to survive with Grace.
01:59To live, we needed food and shelter.
02:01I was strong and didn't fear hardship.
02:02I had learned to read in the past couple of years and could keep accounts.
02:04I rented a small boat and started selling wine on the riverside.
02:07To sell wine, one had to offer food.
02:08In summer and autumn, I sold shrimp and crab.
02:10In winter, I made warm snacks.
02:11The first year, after paying the rent, I earned 37 tails of silver.
02:13The Wynn family's case had been a great scandal.
02:15It seemed that they were about to be executed.
02:16But after a year, nothing happened.
02:17I sewed cotton coats and pants and took wine and food with Grace to visit them.
02:20My parents, my brother, and the concubine.
02:21Grace was delighted to wear the new clothes I made for her.
02:23She held my hand and shook it happily.
02:25The prison was not as strict as last year.
02:27I paid two tails of silver and the warden let Grace in me inside.
02:29The cell was dark and smelled foul.
02:30Grace was timid and clung to my hand, her eyes darting about like a lost little rabbit.
02:34I patted her hand and told her not to worry and that I was there for her.
02:36She smiled.
02:36She had dimples on both cheeks.
02:38The whole family was locked together.
02:39I could hardly recognize them anymore.
02:41They were thin and dirty beyond recognition.
02:42Of the three sons, only two remained.
02:44The eldest, Jonathan Wynn, was missing.
02:45I had only seen them three or four times.
02:47They were about the same age.
02:47Now, I could no longer tell who was who.
02:49No one knew where Jonathan was.
02:51The warden opened the door and gave us an hour.
02:53Straw was spread in the corner, which seemed like where they had slept.
02:56Grace looked at her parents, who she longed for, but couldn't recognize them.
02:58But her family knew her.
02:59Seeing her peeking out from behind me, afraid.
03:00Mr. Wynn called Gemma's name after a long pause.
03:02She remembered her old name and stared at her father for a long time.
03:04She seemed to have recognized him.
03:05She then called out, Father.
03:06Her pale cheeks streaked with tears.
03:07She hesitated, then rushed into her father's arms.
03:09The whole family looked at her and couldn't stop crying.
03:11Mr. Wynn did not know me.
03:11There had been over ten maids in the manor.
03:13He would be out most of the day.
03:14He had no time to remember us.
03:15Mrs. Wynn was only 40, but her hair had already turned gray.
03:17She looked like someone in her 60s, but she still recognized me.
03:19You're Macy, the maid.
03:20Her eyes were gray and found it difficult to speak.
03:22Mother, she's my sister, Grace said, clutching my hand.
03:24Mr. and Mrs. Wynn, please forgive me.
03:26I didn't dare let Miss Grace use her old name, though I gave her a new name.
03:28She's now called Grace Chase.
03:29Why are you apologizing?
03:30The Wynn family is now ruined.
03:31She's the only one left.
03:32Everything happened.
03:33Too suddenly, I had no time to find a place for her.
03:35I am very grateful.
03:36None of them expected that the only person who came to visit them was not their daughter,
03:39but a mere maid.
03:40Mrs. Wynn returned your indenture long ago.
03:41You are no longer a maid of the manor.
03:42There is no harm in you being Grace's sister.
03:44If the Wynn manor ever sees the light again, Macy shall be a member of the family.
03:47If the Wynn manor ever sees the light again, Macy shall be one of the heiresses of the family.
03:50When I saw Mr. Wynn, he still had his integrity.
03:51Things could still be turned around.
03:52I felt happy for Grace.
03:54I had no wish to become a young lady of the manor.
04:00I did go to the Bennett manor with Grace before, but I didn't see her.
04:02I heard she had just given birth and was still in confinement.
04:03A few days later, the Bennett family moved to Eastboro.
04:05Even if Miss Julia wished to see you, she's too far away.
04:07And she has a child to care for.
04:08How could she possibly return?
04:09There were some things I didn't say.
04:09When Miss Julia heard what happened, she fainted twice.
04:11Her husband took advantage of that and carried her onto the boat.
04:13We were all ordinary folks.
04:14At a time like this, what was wrong with choosing to protect oneself?
04:16Soon, the time was up.
04:17I had to leave with Grace.
04:18She cried and wanted to bring her family along.
04:19It took quite a lot of effort to convince her to leave.
04:21Yet she sobbed and asked where her brother was.
04:22Throughout the manor, tales of Jonathan abound.
04:24He was not only exceptionally handsome, but had also earned top imperial exam honors by 20.
04:27He was seen to be the future grand chancellor.
04:28I didn't know about his talent, but I had to admit that he was really handsome.
04:30After all, his mother was an extraordinary beauty.
04:31Such a man was now nowhere to be found.
04:34Mr. Wynn remained silent.
04:35I knew I shouldn't ask any more questions.
04:36I took Grace home.
04:37We rented a courtyard on East Street with others.
04:39Grace and I had arrived first, so we took the two East rooms.
04:41One as a bedroom, and the other as the kitchen.
04:42On the west side, three rooms housed a family of four.
04:43The man was a peddler, traveling the streets.
04:45His wife stayed home with the children.
04:46The peddler's surname was Hilton.
04:47He was six feet tall.
04:47Janet Monroe, his wife, wasn't a talker, but she was kind.
04:49In her spare time, she would embroider handkerchiefs and sachets, which the peddler would carry out to sell.
04:52I could manage sewing clothes and making shoes, but embroidery was beyond me.
04:54So I told Grace to learn embroidery from Janet.
04:56She was actually doing quite well.
04:57The fish and shrimp I had left unsold each day mostly ended up in the bellies of Grace and Janet's
05:00two children.
05:00This day was no different from any other, except Riverside had frozen over.
05:02Had to stop my business, so I changed to doing deliveries instead.
05:04After returning home and eating dinner, Grace was already drowsy.
05:06Once she fell asleep, I lit a lamp and started making time, especially for a girl like me with a
05:09sister.
05:10But the river had its own code.
05:11Paying for protection means someone was always watching out for you.
05:13I didn't fear hardship, but I did fear trouble.
05:14When the knock sounded at the door, I was startled.
05:16After all, in Rivermore, Grace and I depended on each other.
05:18Who would come find us at night?
05:19Who is it?
05:19I called out loudly.
05:20I'm a win.
05:21The voice outside was low.
05:22It was a deep, pleasant male voice.
05:23You're a win?
05:24The man outside slipped through the door.
05:25I quickly shut it behind him.
05:26He stood with his back to me at the bedside, looking at Grace.
05:28The house was small.
05:29Only a curtain separated the bed from the rest.
05:30Inside was the bedroom.
05:31Outside served as the living room.
05:32Now that he had drawn the curtain aside, everything could be seen clearly.
05:34He was very tall and wore a dark cloak.
05:36His hair was bound tightly with a band.
05:37I had a faint suspicion of who he might be, but I didn't dare ask.
05:39I simply waited for him to finish.
05:40Now that he had drawn the curtain aside, everything could be seen clearly.
05:42He was very tall and wore a dark cloak.
05:44His hair was bound tightly with a band.
05:45I had a faint suspicion of who he might be, but I didn't dare ask.
05:47I simply waited for him to finish.
05:48I added wood to the brazier, set a kettle to boil, and poured him a cup of tea.
05:51The tea was what we would serve to travelers on the riverboat.
05:53It wasn't the best tea, but it wasn't bad either.
05:54When he drew the curtain and stepped out, the oil lamp cast a dim golden glow.
05:56Yet I saw him clearly.
05:57People in the manor said that he was noble and had an outstanding figure.
05:59All my life, I had wondered what that meant.
06:00Too shallow to describe such a man.
06:01Most importantly, his skin was very fair.
06:03He didn't even take off his cloak when he sat down and picked up the cup of tea.
06:05Even his hands were fashioned with such grace.
06:06There was not a single flaw to be found in his looks.
06:08His eyes were dark, and when he looked at someone, they gave nothing away.
06:10It could make others panic.
06:11I looked at how he was dressed.
06:12He didn't seem down and out.
06:13That was because the clothes under his cloak were made from cloud-pattern brocade.
06:16They were very expensive.
06:17Since he wasn't down and out, then why did he not help his family?
06:19The court affairs were complicated.
06:20I didn't dare ask.
06:20It's of great importance.
06:21You must act with utmost care.
06:22I didn't want to take it, but hearing the urgency and helplessness in his words,
06:25I gritted my teeth and took the bag.
06:26I'll leave this with you.
06:27Give this to Abbott Leonard Sinclair at Morning Bell Abbey.
06:28This matter is of great importance.
06:29You must act with utmost care.
06:30I didn't want to take it, but hearing his helpless urgency as he said,
06:32I have no choice.
06:33I gritted my teeth and took the bag.
06:34The object was wrapped in cloth.
06:35It appeared to be a book.
06:36It wasn't very thick.
06:37When he handed it to me, it still bore the warmth of his touch.
06:39Young master, the Wynn family is still waiting for you in prison.
06:41In the end, I chose to say this for the Wynn family's and Grace's sake.
06:43He nodded.
06:44Suddenly, he smiled.
06:45His smile was as dazzling as the blazing sun each month.
06:47Just getting inside was an extremely difficult task.
06:48At dawn the next day, I entrusted Grace to Janet and ascended Roost Hill.
06:51Though called a hill, Roost Hill was not steep or dangerous.
06:53I am used to hard labor.
06:54The walk wasn't long, so it didn't take a lot of effort for me.
06:55When I reached the abbey gates, the doors were tightly shut.
06:57From within came the sound of chanting and the striking of wooden fish.
06:59I knocked several times before a young novice emerged.
07:01He was about five or six.
07:02He was quite adorable.
07:03He looked well cared for and fair-skinned.
07:04Upon seeing me, he greeted me formally.
07:05He said,
07:05Madame, if you wish to offer incense and make wow, please come back on the 4th or 15th.
07:08I knocked several times before a young novice emerged.
07:09He was about five or six.
07:11He was quite adorable.
07:11He looked well cared for and fair-skinned.
07:13Upon seeing me, he saluted with one palm upright.
07:14He said,
07:14Madame, if you wish to offer incense and make wow, please come back on the 4th or 15th.
07:17I found him so adorable, I could not help but wish to pat his head.
07:19Yet I feared it might be forbidden.
07:20So I took two pieces of candy from my pouch for him.
07:21The same kind I would usually use to coax Grace.
07:23He pressed his lips together and was hesitant.
07:24I took his hand and placed the candy in his palm.
07:26I said,
07:26I am not here to offer incense nor to fulfill a vow.
07:28Go and tell your abbot that his daughter from his secular life is here to see him.
07:30I knew I shouldn't have lied.
07:31But what else could I do?
07:32Had I not overheard some idle talk aboard the boat?
07:33I would never have thought of such a plan.
07:35Abbott Sinclair used to be the previous emperor's son.
07:37Even the present emperor must address him as royal uncle.
07:38During a rebellion,
07:39Abbott Sinclair was sent to quell the rebellion.
07:41The rebel prince Wyatt kidnapped his family and threatened him to withdraw his troops.
07:44The princess consort feared he would be held back.
07:45So she and her children set fire to the manor.
07:47I heard one of the wet nurse escaped with a princess,
07:49but no one knew where they had gone.
07:50Disheartened,
07:51Abbott Sinclair chose to become a monk.
07:52If that princess was still alive,
07:53she would be about 15 or 16 years old.
07:55I heard one of the wet nurse escaped with a princess,
07:56but no one knew where they had gone.
07:58Disheartened,
07:58Abbott Sinclair chose to become a monk.
08:00If that princess was still alive,
08:01she would be about my age.
08:02The young novice was just a child
08:03and naturally knew nothing of the Abbott's past.
08:04Yet he went inside to seek someone.
08:05Having mustered the courage to come,
08:06I wasn't so afraid now.
08:07As for pretending to be a commandery princess,
08:09I heard that in those days,
08:10many families brought their children to the prince's estate to claim kinship.
08:12Though none were truly related,
08:12I never heard of any losing their heads for it.
08:13The prince has become the Abbott now and hardly take a life over this.
08:16Before long,
08:16a rotund monk emerged.
08:17His belly was round and full,
08:18with a large nose,
08:19the tip of which was red,
08:20and two plump cheeks.
08:20On another,
08:21such flesh might seem brutish,
08:22but on him,
08:22it only made him appear kindly and endearing.
08:24He looked me up and down,
08:25and with a beaming smile,
08:26he asked,
08:26Madam,
08:27what makes you so certain you are the Abbott's daughter?
08:28As I was not,
08:29I dared not claim so.
08:29I guess.
08:30If the rumors among the folks proved true,
08:31I would match every detail.
08:32But whether it is true or not,
08:33only meeting the Abbott can we be sure.
08:34After all,
08:35whether I am truly his daughter,
08:36only he himself can know for certain.
08:37I would match every detail.
08:38But whether it is true or not,
08:39only meeting the Abbott can we be sure.
08:40After all,
08:40whether I am truly his daughter,
08:41only he himself can know for certain.
08:42Either way,
08:43meeting him was all that mattered.
08:44When false seems true,
08:45true becomes false.
08:45Brother Fred tilted his head,
08:46watching the little novice puff out his cheeks.
08:47He told him to hold out his hand.
08:48The little novice was clearly too naive
08:49and obediently opened his palm.
08:51Brother Fred's plump fingers pinched up
08:52the last piece of candy
08:52and popped it into his own mouth.
08:53He turned back,
08:54belly leading the way.
08:55The little novice was stunned.
08:56I looked at him
08:56and patted his tiny shoulder helplessly.
08:58What is your name?
08:59Pull him out.
09:00His face fell.
09:00He was on the verge of tears.
09:01Owen,
09:02listen to me.
09:03Every time your master falls asleep,
09:04go and scratch at his door.
09:05If he steals your food,
09:06then disturb his dreams.
09:07And if that fails,
09:07before you eat,
09:08spit twice on your food.
09:09Let's see if he still wants it then.
09:15Owen had likely never heard
09:16such wicked advice.
09:17For a moment he was dazed.
09:18He stared at me with those wide, round eyes.
09:20Owen had likely never heard
09:21such wicked advice.
09:21For a moment he was dazed.
09:22He stared at me with those wide, round eyes.
09:24His master arrived soon after.
09:25He led me inside.
09:26Owen followed by my side,
09:27looking as though he wished to speak,
09:28but dared not.
09:28I grinned at him with pride.
09:29Perhaps he thought I was rather formidable.
09:30Abbott Sinclair had just finished his sermon.
09:32He awaited me beneath the Bodhi tree
09:32in the rear courtyard.
09:33Though it was winter and bitter cold,
09:34that tree alone remained lush and green as ever.
09:35Were it not for his shaven head
09:36and monk's robe,
09:36who would imagine him to be a monk?
09:37He was, after all,
09:38far too handsome and refined.
09:39He had once been in battle,
09:40yet there was not a trace
09:40of a soldier's harshness upon him.
09:41He appeared dignified and wise.
09:42His age was difficult to discern.
09:43All others had withdrawn.
09:44He stood beneath the tree,
09:45turning prayer beads in his hand.
09:46Seen from afar,
09:46he resembled a painting.
09:47This humble girl has offended.
09:48I beg for your forgiveness, Abbott.
09:49The falsehood spoken today
09:50was out of necessity.
09:50I bowed low, offering my apology.
09:51Perhaps he was used to disappointment,
09:53for his expression did not change in the least.
09:54I removed the bundle from my shoulder
09:55and handed it to him.
09:55He opened it, glanced inside,
09:56then closed it again.
09:57What crime have you committed?
09:58A young woman with such courage and wit
09:59is a rare sight indeed.
10:00Did Ross entrust you with any message?
10:01His voice was clear and pleasant,
10:02measured and calm.
10:03A sound that brought joy to the heart.
10:04No.
10:05Did Jonathan entrust you with any message?
10:06His voice was clear and pleasant,
10:07measured and calm.
10:08A sound that brought joy to the heart.
10:09No.
10:10Ross must be Young Master Wind's courtesy name.
10:12Since you have come seeking me,
10:12you must truly be in some trouble.
10:14If he ever finds himself in difficulty,
10:15you may come to me at any time.
10:16May I ask, what is your name?
10:17And what do you do for a living?
10:18Macy Chase.
10:19I work as a wine boat maiden on the riverside.
10:20A fine young lady.
10:21Go on now.
10:21It had already been several months
10:22since the last time I met Abbott Sinclair.
10:24The riverside was no longer frozen,
10:24yet my business had only gotten better.
10:26On 3rd of March,
10:26I heard the eldest princess was touring the river.
10:27Grace insisted on going to watch,
10:28so naturally the business had to rest for a day.
10:29I took Grace early to see the spectacle.
10:31The princess was the elder sister of his majesty.
10:32Her father, the late emperor, loved her dearly.
10:33He married her to the prosperous city of Mukai.
10:34He even bestowed Rivermore upon her as her own domain.
10:36There were many tales about the princess.
10:37It was said her consort kept a mistress,
10:38so she sent men to have him made a eunuch.
10:40Afterwards, she herself kept many handsome favorites.
10:41She lived each day in pleasure and freedom.
10:43Anyone who caught her eye would not be able to escape.
10:45Thus, in Rivermore,
10:45rarely did one hear of any family's son being handsome.
10:47They would send the boys away
10:48once they could start going to school.
10:50They would rarely come home either,
10:51unless their family sought favor
10:52and wished to present their son themselves.
10:53Thus, in Rivermore,
10:54rarely did one hear of any family's son being handsome.
10:55They would send the boys away
10:56once they could start going to school.
10:58They would rarely come home either,
10:59unless their family sought favor
11:00and wished to present their son themselves.
11:01There were countless rumors about the princess.
11:02No one knew if they were real or not,
11:03but it was said that even his majesty yielded to her.
11:05Her power was plain for all to see.
11:06We arrived early,
11:07so naturally we claimed the best spot on the bridge.
11:08Whenever the princess traveled,
11:09the spectacle was grand indeed.
11:10There were three luxurious boats,
11:11each one built three stories high.
11:12The princess was especially fond of white gauze.
11:13The boat that was covered in white gauze
11:15had to be the princess's.
11:16It was the one in the middle.
11:16Grace stared intently,
11:17chattering away loud as a flock of birds.
11:18On board,
11:19aside from the palace maids in attendance,
11:20most were young men,
11:20handsome and fair.
11:21There were all sorts and kinds among them.
11:22It seemed the tales of the princess
11:23harboring male consorts
11:24weren't mere idle gossip,
11:25yet the princess herself was nowhere to be seen.
11:26As the boat drew nearer,
11:27a gust of wind blew in,
11:28lifting up that white gauze.
11:29Jonathan, it's my brother!
11:30Grace pointed straight at that boat.
11:31I was so startled,
11:32I quickly covered her mouth with my hand.
11:33When I turned back,
11:34the floating gauze was already settling down,
11:35but some faces were simply unforgettable.
11:36Even if it was only a glimpse,
11:38you could still recognize them
11:38at a glance amongst a crowd.
11:39But some faces were simply unforgettable.
11:41Even if it was only a glimpse,
11:42you could still see them
11:42at a glance amongst a crowd.
11:43The princess was clad in a white gauze gown,
11:45her long legs half-revealed.
11:46Upon her brow,
11:46a delicate flower was painted.
11:47The red at the corners of her eyes
11:48and her slightly parted red lips
11:49were as clear as day.
11:50And he was lying just beneath the princess,
11:51his fair chest exposed to the lamplight.
11:52I could even see his knitted brows
11:53and the trembling sweep of his long lashes.
11:55The princess reached to touch his lips.
11:56He turned his head aside to evade her.
11:57In that single instant,
11:58he opened his eyes
11:58and we locked gazes.
11:59Spines seemed to stretch on endlessly,
12:00yet slip away in a breath.
12:01It was long enough for me
12:02to see the shame and fury in his eyes,
12:03yet too brief for me
12:03to find the small mole
12:04at the corner of his mouth.
12:05A true scholar laureate
12:06and yet forced to submit himself
12:06to the princess.
12:07Such humiliation must have wounded him
12:08more deeply than any blade.
12:09There was a saying,
12:09a scholar's integrity
12:10would rather break than bend.
12:11The man I beheld today
12:11was nothing like the one I saw that night.
12:12He endured disgrace and burden.
12:13There was something dearer to him
12:14than his own life
12:15that he must protect.
12:15I had faith in him.
12:16To me, the days repeated themselves.
12:17That fleeting glimpse of the princess
12:18upon the river on 3rd March
12:19had taken root in my heart.
12:20The shame and forbearance
12:21in Jonathan's eyes
12:22was something I couldn't forget.
12:23To me, the days repeated themselves.
12:24That fleeting glimpse of the princess
12:25upon the river on 3rd March
12:26had taken root in my heart.
12:27The shame and forbearance
12:28in Jonathan's eyes
12:29was something I couldn't forget.
12:30Grace was growing up.
12:31Most of the words she learned
12:31in her early years
12:32had faded from memory.
12:32I once thought to send her
12:33to Morning Bell Abbey for her studies,
12:34but feared it would expose
12:34Jonathan's whereabouts.
12:35That was when the princess
12:36opened a ladies' academy,
12:36so I sent her and Janet's
12:38youngest daughter together.
12:39Though Grace was simple-minded,
12:39her memory was remarkable.
12:40She could recite what she learned
12:41word for word,
12:42borrowing her textbooks.
12:43I, too, have slowly learned to read.
12:50I painted a fan
12:51and stitched new garments.
12:52The conditions were much better
12:53than before.
12:53Mrs. Wynn no longer spoke
12:54with a feeble breath.
12:55Her two sons used the ground
12:55for paper and sticks for brushes
12:56to study in the prison.
12:57Aunt no longer spent her days in tears.
12:59I told Grace again and again,
13:00never to mention having met Jonathan.
13:01Otherwise, her parents would be
13:02consumed by grief and anger.
13:03Since the princess could keep
13:03Jonathan by her side,
13:04she had to know his true heritage.
13:05Such humiliation was nothing but revenge
13:06or a means to keep him in check.
13:07I told Grace again and again,
13:08never to mention having met Jonathan.
13:10Otherwise, her parents would be
13:10consumed by grief and anger.
13:11Since the princess could keep
13:12Jonathan by her side,
13:13she had to know his true heritage.
13:14Such humiliation was nothing but revenge
13:20with praise.
13:21Grace replied,
13:21it's all thanks to my sister.
13:22She pulled out the undergarment
13:23sewn from fine cotton.
13:24She said,
13:24Macy washed it, dried it,
13:25and softened the cloth.
13:26Now I can help with the sewing too.
13:26I entrusted Sally Kent,
13:27who came to Rivermore with me
13:28in those years,
13:28to send 30 tails of silver
13:29and clothes back to our hometown.
13:29Not long after,
13:30I received a letter from my father.
13:31Back when the family split up,
13:31they only gave him 600 coins
13:32out of the two tails of silver
13:33from my indenture.
13:33My parents brought my younger siblings
13:34into the county town.
13:35Father and my brother now worked
13:36as clerks at the grain shop.
13:36Mother and my sister washed
13:37and mended clothes.
13:38Life had finally found some peace.
13:39Now with this sum of silver,
13:39they could return to the village,
13:40buy land,
13:40and build a house.
13:41They could finally arrange a marriage
13:41for my younger brother.
13:42When the Wynne family fell into hardship,
13:43kin and friends avoided us at all costs.
13:44Only I remained to care for them throughout.
13:45Mrs. Wynne stroked my head
13:45and said to Mr. Wynne.
13:46If we are fortunate enough to survive,
13:47let Jonathan marry Macy.
13:48Where else can you find such
13:49a loyal and true-hearted woman?
13:50Mrs. Wynne stroked my head
13:51and said to Mr. Wynne.
13:52If we are fortunate enough to survive,
13:53let Jonathan marry Macy.
13:54Where else can you find
13:54such a loyal and true-hearted woman?
13:56I hurriedly declined.
13:56Mr. and Mrs. Wynne,
13:57you've returned my indenture to me.
13:58That alone is the kindness
13:59of giving me a second life.
13:59All that I have done
14:00springs from my own heart.
14:00The young masters are destined
14:01for government service in the future
14:02and ought to marry a lady of equal standing.
14:03I ask only to remain
14:04in the Wynne family with grace.
14:05Mr. Wynne sighed.
14:05We can only wait and see
14:06what the future holds.
14:06For now, I fear we are holding you back.
14:07May was a cursed month.
14:08At night, one wouldn't go out
14:09unless there was urgent business.
14:10I shut the door early,
14:10soothed grace to sleep,
14:11and opened my chest,
14:12counting again the silver and copper
14:13I had saved.
14:14If the Wynne family was released,
14:15it would be best
14:15if Mr. Wynne could regain his post.
14:16But if he couldn't,
14:17where would they live once released?
14:18What would they eat?
14:19Could the two masters continue their studies?
14:20What would become of the eldest son?
14:22I found myself unable to dwell
14:23on any of these thoughts.
14:23Buying a house was out of the question.
14:24We could only afford to rent a larger place.
14:26Yet the silver I had wasn't enough.
14:27I had to find another way to earn a living.
14:28The little income from the boat alone
14:29would never be enough
14:30to support the studies of the two masters.
14:32The silver I had wasn't enough.
14:33I had to find another way to earn a living.
14:35The little income from the boat alone
14:36would never be enough
14:36to support the studies of the two masters.
14:38I cradled my head,
14:39and lying atop the table,
14:39I fell asleep.
14:40When I woke up,
14:40I did not know when he had come,
14:41but he sat right across from me.
14:42My arm was numb beneath me,
14:43and when I moved,
14:44it was as though ants burrowed into my very bones,
14:45aching and itching all at once.
14:46I grimaced and bared my teeth,
14:47needing a good while to recover.
14:47He simply watched me in silence,
14:48not uttering a single word.
14:49There was a smell of whiskey on him.
14:50He wore only a white robe
14:51with wide sleeves and flowing coat.
14:52If the collar slipped an inch further,
14:53his entire chest would be laid bare.
14:55His hair was loose and wild,
14:55his attire in disarray,
14:56most likely from drinking too much.
14:57The corners of his eyes were tinged with red,
14:58his gaze shimmering with unshed tears.
14:59No wonder the princess set her sights on him.
15:00He was just like a lustful demon.
15:02I was 16.
15:02Just the right age for marriage.
15:04Yet I had never truly known any man.
15:05My first real encounter
15:06was with a man of such extraordinary caliber.
15:07A flushed face and a pounding heart
15:08were normal signs.
15:09Truth be told,
15:09over the years I had become thick-skinned.
15:10While I worked,
15:11I met all kinds of people.
15:11Some liked dirty jokes.
15:12I went from blushing
15:13to tuning them out completely.
15:14But that all went down the drain
15:15in front of this guy.
15:16Truth be told,
15:17over the years I had become thick-skinned.
15:18While I worked,
15:18I met all kinds of people.
15:19Some liked dirty jokes.
15:20I went from blushing
15:21to have gotten used to them.
15:22But that all went down the drain
15:23in front of this guy.
15:24Mr. Jonathan,
15:25what brought you over?
15:26I wetted my lips
15:26and offered an awkward smile.
15:28Are there any colored cords left?
15:29Please give me one.
15:29He massaged his temples
15:30as if he was half drunk.
15:31I knew I should reason
15:32with a drunken man.
15:33So I didn't say something like,
15:34look at the time.
15:34Or the dragon boat festival
15:35had long passed.
15:36I searched the sewing basket
15:37and found a length of cord.
15:38I watched as he reached out
15:38his fair arm.
15:39I then tied the colored cord on him.
15:40He lifted his arm to inspect it.
15:41But his sleeve was so wide
15:42that half his arm was revealed.
15:43Upon that pale,
15:44well-shaped arm
15:44were wounds,
15:45startling to behold.
15:46Some fresh,
15:46some old.
15:47The new ones were still bleeding.
15:47The old ones were faint scars.
15:49I was so shocked
15:50that I covered my mouth
15:50to prevent myself from calling out.
15:52He saw my reaction,
15:52yet only smiled unconcerned.
15:53What?
15:54Scared?
15:54As he spoke,
15:55he reached to his collar and tugged,
15:56letting his white shirt
15:57gather around his waist and belly,
15:58revealing a body full of scars.
15:59What?
16:00Scared?
16:00As he spoke,
16:01he reached to his collar and tugged,
16:02letting his white shirt
16:02gather around his waist and belly,
16:03revealing a body full of scars.
16:04I stared with wide eyes,
16:05gazing at the countless wounds
16:06that marred his pale body.
16:07A sudden shock and pain struck me.
16:08Back then I was young
16:09and did not yet understand
16:09what it was that so startled and pained me.
16:11Do you know what I do each day?
16:11Do you know what it means
16:12to be a kept man?
16:13Each day after drinking the medicine,
16:14I lie prostrate beneath that woman,
16:15seeking her favor.
16:15No matter what she did,
16:16I couldn't even feel the pain.
16:17Well, what use is it to be a laureate?
16:18What use is it to be a scholar?
16:20I lost my dignity long ago.
16:20I'm just a corpse
16:21that even I myself despise.
16:22If not for...
16:23He must truly be drunk.
16:24That was why he was troubled
16:25by what me and Grace saw that day.
16:26If it were anyone else,
16:27it would matter little.
16:28But Grace was his closest kin.
16:28To her, he was the elder brother
16:29who was smart and talented.
16:30How could he face Grace in the future
16:31after she saw him
16:32in such an embarrassing state?
16:33I rummaged through trunks and drawers
16:34to find the healing salves
16:34and prepared a basin of warm water.
16:35The wounds upon his body,
16:36some from pinching,
16:37some from biting,
16:37some were from whips,
16:38and some I couldn't tell the cause of.
16:39My heart raced with fright
16:39and sorrow as I looked at them.
16:40I rummaged through trunks and drawers
16:41to find the healing salves
16:42and prepared a basin of warm water.
16:43The wounds upon his body,
16:43some from pinching,
16:44some from biting,
16:44some were from whips,
16:45and some I couldn't tell the cause of.
16:46My heart raced with fright
16:47and sorrow as I looked at them.
16:48My hands dared not use much force,
16:48afraid that I would hurt him.
16:49I could only bite my lip
16:50and tend to him with utmost care.
16:51He was not as frail as he appeared.
16:52His muscles were well-defined, taut, and handsome. Perhaps it was the pain. His muscles were tensed. Gradually, I found
16:56myself growing calm and unhurried. I told him all that had happened in the prison today.
16:59You're destined for great deeds. Since you have saved the lives of our family, you can leave the rest to
17:03me. I shall see to it that everyone is cared for.
17:05Death was the simplest thing in this world. A length of rope, a sharp knife, even biting one's own tongue
17:08would do the trick. But to live requires greater courage.
17:10Mr. Jonathan, you're upright and unyielding, generous and open-hearted. The harsher the frost and wind, the more your metal
17:14shines through. Under heavy burden, in every choice and sacrifice, your spirit endures.
17:16Now that you have made your choice, why torment yourself? Those who know and love you will never forsake you.
17:20This was probably the power of knowledge.
17:21Now I knew what to say at different times. Now that you have made your choice, why torment yourself? Those
17:26who know and love you will never forsake you.
17:27This was probably the power of knowledge. Now I knew what to say at different times.
17:30He closed his eyes and leaned back. He seemed to be asleep. The wound on his abdomen was worse than
17:34the others. His waist was remarkably slender.
17:36For some reason, I suddenly remembered what my mother once told me. A man ought to be sturdy and strong.
17:38If his waist was too thin, he wouldn't even be able to lift his wife.
17:41How could he then possibly support his family? Such a thought made me want to laugh. Though his waist was
17:43slim, he still seemed to be strong.
17:45I've applied some medicine. It's not necessary. Soon it will split open again in a few days. It's a waste.
17:48He sat up straight. I helped him dress.
17:49You must protect yourself. No matter what, you ought to protect yourself.
17:52How am I supposed to protect myself? This is already the most I can do. If I am to grovel
17:55and beg for favor like the rest, I would rather be dead.
17:57His voice was bitter. For a moment, I was at a loss for words. It was easier said than done.
18:01I wondered how he was able to convince himself to become the princess's kept man back then and how he
18:05had kept going until now.
18:06How did he ever talk himself into becoming the princess's kept man? And how did he endure until this day?
18:10He would rather bear the pain in his flesh than surrender the last shred of his pride.
18:13I am hungry. Could you make something for me? Is it alright to return so late?
18:15She gave the go-ahead today. Told me to come home and check. But where's my home now? There's only
18:19this place left for me.
18:19I visited the prison today, and I won't go out on the boat tomorrow. There was not much food. There
18:22were only two fishes left in the water tank.
18:23I caught one of them, cleaned it up, and steamed it fresh. He found the little stool Grace usually sits
18:26on when stoking the fire, and sat at the kitchen watching me cook.
18:28I reheated the leftover bowl of plain porridge, ready to eat. Steamed fish is quick to make.
18:31I scooped him half a plate of drunken shrimp and sliced a few pieces of cured meat to fry. He
18:34was not picky with his meals.
18:35I didn't make much of anything. He ate every bite, leaving nothing behind.
18:37While I was grabbing the bowls, he stood by the stove, watching. He was tall. Under the lamplight, his shadow
18:40stretched long across the wall.
18:42I wanted to find another way to make a living. When Mr. and Mrs. Wynn were released from prison, if
18:44their official rank couldn't be restored, I hoped to rent a larger house.
18:46If the young masters could get an education, they certainly should when they returned.
18:49I wanted to find another way to make a living. When Mr. and Mrs. Wynn were released from prison, if
18:52their official rank couldn't be restored, I hoped to rent a larger house.
18:53If the young masters could get an education, they certainly should when they returned.
18:56Though business upon the riverboat was great, the earnings were truly meager. At that time, it may be difficult even
18:59to make ends meet, let alone hope for anything more.
19:01I shared my thoughts with him. He lowered his gaze. A deep shadow cast beneath his eyes.
19:04Have you ever thought of me? He suddenly asked. Of course I have thought of you. I don't know what
19:07you're doing, but I think it must be entwined with the princess.
19:10Affairs of the royal kin are ever shrouded in secrecy. Who could know how things will unfold? I only pray
19:13you may escape unscathed. That alone would be a blessing.
19:15As for more, I dare not hope. He curled his lips, as though he smiled, yet he didn't.
19:18So, what do you want to do? Business was good this year. Besides the 30 tails of silver I sent
19:21to my parents, and what I spent to ease daily needs in the prison, I still had 60 tails of
19:25silver and 57 large coins.
19:26Such a sum would not suffice to rent even the most remote shop in Rivermore. I had yet to decide
19:29what I would do. These few days, I would not go out on the boat. I would scout around first
19:31for a better line of work.
19:37Money got things done. It was easy to earn money with money, but to earn money off folk, that's not
19:40something to be done by sheer effort. I'll find a way to handle the money.
19:43No, don't. If you had money in hand, you'd have brought it back long ago. Why would you have waited
19:45till now? Just mind your own well-being.
19:47Allow me some time. There's bound to be a way.
19:49He looked at me with a half-smile, half-frown. I found his gaze rather baffling. I frowned right back
19:51at him. He tapped me on the forehead with one pale finger, nearly sending me toppling over backward.
19:55I clutched my reddening forehead and glared at him in irritation. He only laughed. His lips were rosy, his teeth
19:59white, so strikingly handsome.
20:00I borrowed 100 tails of silver from Sally and agreed I'd repay her. 130 tails of silver in half a
20:03year.
20:03Then I asked one of the boatmen to pretend I was a young lady seeking kin and sailed with him
20:06to east shore to gather pearls.
20:07That could bring tenfold returns. Only the waves at sea were ever fickle. It all depended on luck.
20:10Two months later, I returned. The sea sun had tanned me deeply, but I'd cleared over 600 tails of silver.
20:13Then I asked one of the boatmen to pretend I was a young lady seeking kin and sailed with him
20:16to east shore to gather pearls.
20:18That could bring tenfold returns. Only the waves at sea were ever fickle. It all depended on luck.
20:20Two months later, I returned. The sea sun had tanned me deeply, but I'd cleared over 600 tails of silver.
20:24I rented a storefront on East Street. After cleaning it up, I opened a dumpling shop.
20:27I replaced the door curtain with a bamboo one, put out a few pots of chrysanthemums.
20:29The four tables were small, but business was booming.
20:31After school, Grace would come help out.
20:32I even hired Janet to work in the kitchen.
20:33A few days before opening, Jonathan came by late at night.
20:35He wore a black robe with a jade green belt, which made his waist look even slimmer.
20:38You've got some nerve actually daring to go out to sea.
20:39He frowned, clearly annoyed.
20:40You were never much to look at, and now you're dark as cold.
20:42Who'd ever marry you now?
20:43No need to worry about me.
20:44My father arranged a childhood betrothal for me.
20:45Once the Wynn family settles down, I'll head home and get married.
20:47I said it just to get under his skin.
20:47He raised an eyebrow, but didn't say anything more.
20:49He gave a silver note and turned to leave.
20:50I grabbed his sleeve.
20:51Try my seafood dumplings.
20:52So good you might just swallow your tongue.
20:53He sat down.
20:54I took the chance to ask him to write the shop sign.
20:55Already picked the name?
20:56He picked up the brush.
20:57Let's call it seafood dumplings.
20:58Simple and clear for everyone.
20:59He rolled up his sleeves and started writing.
21:00His strokes bold and elegant.
21:01Let's call it seafood dumplings.
21:02Simple and clear for everyone.
21:03He rolled up his sleeves and started writing.
21:04His strokes bold and elegant.
21:05Under the dim lantern light, his quiet profile was lovelier than his writings.
21:07I was entranced.
21:08He turned smiling and asked,
21:09Will this do?
21:09In his eyes shimmered the stars themselves.
21:10He ate two bowls of dumplings.
21:12I returned the silver note to him and said,
21:13Once money gets involved, feelings lose their purity.
21:14He accepted the silver note.
21:15With a sigh, he said,
21:16If you were a man, you'd really be something.
21:17Day after day, when I turned 19,
21:19the princess returned to the capital.
21:20It was said she'd be staying a while and would not be leaving soon.
21:22When the princess departed, she took him with her as well.
21:24In fact, he seldom came.
21:25Perhaps once a month or even less.
21:26And when he did, it was in the dead of night.
21:27Staying no longer than it took to have a meal.
21:28We barely exchanged a few words.
21:29Yet I longed for him.
21:30Thought of him.
21:30They said beauty led nations to ruin.
21:31And beauty could ruin me.
21:32But he was never aware of his own charm.
21:33In the twelfth month, his majesty made a vow.
21:35Though I knew not what vow he uttered.
21:36His majesty was a Taoist believer.
21:37Each day refining elixirs, seeking everlasting life.
21:38It was known to all under heaven.
21:39Yet this vow was the finest he'd ever made.
21:40An imperial amnesty was forthcoming.
21:41And the Wynne family was to be released.
21:42In December, his majesty made a vow.
21:44None knew the words he spoke.
21:45Yet was known to all that he was devoted to the quest for eternal life.
21:48Yet the vow was truly grand.
21:49For he granted amnesty to all, including the Wynne family.
21:52Only my aunt caught a winter chill and did not survive it.
21:55I rented another small estate with six rooms, all tidied and made ready.
21:58We held a joyous New Year feast, though he was absent.
21:59Gemma had blossomed into a young lady of 14, graceful as a willow, standing tall and fair.
22:03Her affliction seemed to have faded.
22:04She spoke and acted with clarity, yet rather earnest at times.
22:06When I asked her to move back home, she refused firmly, no matter how hard I tried.
22:09I was now but an old maid, yet she had grown up and could not spend her days in the
22:11shop.
22:12She was so fair, and ought to stay at home to cultivate her temperament.
22:15Learn the arts of music and chess from her parents.
22:17When her brother returned one day, he would arrange a fine marriage for her.
22:20Unpersuaded, I brought her home with me.
22:21I gave the rear courtyard to Monroe's, letting them dwell free, so they could watch over the shop.
22:26A plan that served us both.
22:27I gave the rear courtyard to Monroe's, letting them dwell free.
22:29So they could watch over the shop.
22:31A plan that served us both.
22:32I was then a free woman, and had long been unconnected to the winds.
22:34Living with Gemma was still pleasant, but at home, I always felt somewhat uneasy.
22:37Yet they treated me as if I were their own daughter.
22:39No different from how they treated Gemma.
22:40Both gentlemen had shown me the utmost courtesy.
22:42I too had become accustomed to calling them uncle, aunt, and brother.
22:46He had been gone half a year without a word.
22:48Uncle seemed to have found a new interest.
22:49He taught at the school for half the day, and spent the rest to tutor my brothers at home.
22:52He was truly a scholar by imperial exams.
22:53Gemma no longer went to school, practicing letters and needlework with her mother.
22:56She tried to keep the house in order, and she was capable in every regard.
23:00If I were to prepare for her a generous dowry, she would surely find a suitable gentleman.
23:03A grand household might be hard, but a respectable family was within reach.
23:05I only wished that she might wed a man who would cherish her, and her life be free of worry.
23:17One evening, I returned home late. The air was tense and somber.
23:20No one could tell me what had happened.
23:22They only said uncle had locked himself in his chamber upon returning from the school.
23:25He had eaten nothing all day.
23:26In my heart, I vaguely understood.
23:27He must have learned about Jonathan.
23:29It was only a matter of time.
23:31I cooked some dumplings from the shop, let the others eat first, then carried a bowl to find him.
23:35The room to the east had been set aside as a study, and there he was within it.
23:37I called his name several times before he answered.
23:39Entering the room, I found there was no light.
23:40The moonlight streaming through the window cast a faint outline.
23:42I set the food upon the table, then found a tinder stick and lit the lamp.
23:45Once it was lit, I saw uncle seem to have aged many years all at once.
23:47His hair, already streaked with gray, appeared whiter than ever.
23:49He was hunched, unable to straighten his back any longer.
23:51Once it was lit, I saw uncle seem to have aged many years all at once.
23:53His hair, already streaked with gray, appeared whiter than ever.
23:55He was hunched, unable to straighten his back any longer.
23:57Uncle, have you heard of Jonathan's affairs?
24:00He handed him the chopsticks. His hands trembled so violently he could not hold them.
24:02Do you grieve his tarnished name, or ache for him?
24:04He has suffered too much. It was I who erred.
24:05His tears fell unchecked. He cared more for his son than his reputation.
24:08Uncle, since you ache for him, speak no more of bringing him harm.
24:11He bore much sorrow. He hid the truth, fearing you might blame him, or grieve in guilt.
24:16He has borne so much hardship. We should live as we always have, just as before.
24:19We should live our life well. We are family. We cannot keep such accounts.
24:22We should treat him as before.
24:24So he feels at ease.
24:25I sought out a kerchief and wiped his tears, but with such a reputation.
24:28How will he marry and raise a family?
24:29Uncle, he is a fine man.
24:31A worthy wife shall be his in time.
24:32You need not worry.
24:33All you must do is keep your health and spirit well, and wait for your grandson.
24:36All you must do is keep your health and spirit well, and wait for your grandson.
24:38He was such a good man, like the bright moon, with starlight twinkling in his eyes.
24:41Surely there would be a worthy lady for him.
24:42He had endured too much hardship.
24:44If the heavens would show him mercy, they will grant him a wife.
24:46Who loves and protects him.
24:47In July, I entrusted the shop to Janet Monroe and aunt.
24:49Then rode back to my hometown, Sally's Supplies.
24:51I left home at 12.
24:52Seven years had passed.
24:53My hometown had changed as well.
24:54With the silver I sent back, my family bought fields and built a house.
24:57My sister was married, my brother took a wife, my grandparents had passed.
24:59Even the three uncles had married, yet between us only unfamiliarity remained.
25:02My sister-in-law pried into my monthly allowance, but called me auntie behind my back.
25:04Father had been the family patriarch.
25:06He never asked how I had been faring.
25:07Only urged me to send more silver for his grandson.
25:09My sister asked for more silver too, and complained about father's partiality.
25:11But what broke my heart most was that mother had passed away years ago, and no one had told me.
25:15I found the red shoes she made for me, and remembered she promised a red jacket for my wedding.
25:18Inside the chest were the red shoes made for me.
25:20She promised me a red wedding coat.
25:22I stayed only three days, left behind ten silver tails, wept at mother's grave, and then left without looking back.
25:26I didn't want to stay there anymore.
25:28In August, I returned to Rivermore.
25:28The chrysanthemums were in full bloom.
25:30Autumn gave way to winter.
25:30Heavy snow fell over the south.
25:31The emperor didn't provide relief, but held parties, which led to disasters.
25:33On New Year's Eve, the princess plotted rebellion.
25:35The next day, the emperor died.
25:36After the princess ended the throne, he focused on refugees and relief.
25:39The kingdom gradually stabilized.
25:40In April, when I was sorting fish and shrimp, Grace came running in tears to bring news.
25:42She said someone from the palace had come.
25:43When I returned home, it was Dean Foster, who had helped us escape.
25:46He said he had heard about my unrivaled dumplings.
25:47Actually, he came to tell us about Jonathan.
25:50He and the new emperor were like brothers.
25:51The Wynns suffered to support the new emperor.
25:52He wanted to marry me.
25:53The loyal servant who cared for his sister and honored his parents.
25:55The emperor wanted to know my thoughts.
25:56I frankly said I only wanted a lifelong dedicated relationship.
25:58The Wynne family owed me nothing.
25:59But mother mentioned the proposal again.
26:00She wanted me to go with her to the capital.
26:01And the very next day, the gate was crowded with relatives seeking favor.
26:04I frankly said I only wanted a lifelong dedicated relationship.
26:06The Wynne family owed me nothing.
26:06But mother mentioned the proposal again.
26:07She wanted me to go with her to the capital.
26:09But the very next day, the gate was crowded with relatives seeking favor.
26:11On the fifth day, my brother rushed in with urgent news, saying mother fainted from arguing with uncle's family.
26:15And Julia Wynn
26:15Father strained his back while driving them out
26:16I hurried home
26:17Julia was changing her kids swaddling on my bed
26:19I lost my temper at once
26:20Driving out all those who came to curry favor
26:21Julia wailed non-stop
26:22Mr. Wynn sighed and spoke of the past
26:23She was proud and willful
26:24Insisting on marrying out
26:25During the hard times she never showed up
26:26Now she wished to reap the harvest
26:27I slapped her across the face
26:29Declaring she had no right to enjoy the fruit
26:31At dawn the next day
26:32Julia left with her child
26:33Half a month later
26:34The whole family was going to the capital
26:35Grace wept refusing to board the carriage
26:36I promised to fetch her after my wedding
26:37Watching the carriage depart
26:38A sudden weakness overcame me
26:40Two days later I entrusted the shop to Janet
26:41And left Rivermore alone
26:42Two years passed in the blink of an eye
26:43I went to collect pearls in East Shore Village
26:45Life was simple
26:45But I could never truly forget Jonathan
26:47Watching the carriage depart
26:48A sudden weakness overcame me
26:49Two days later I entrusted the shop to Janet
26:50And left Rivermore alone
26:52Two years passed in the blink of an eye
26:53I went to collect pearls in East Shore Village
26:54Life was simple
26:55But I could never truly forget Jonathan
26:56Snow fell thick in the depths of winter
26:57With my silver notes I returned to the capital
26:58Jonathan was leading the treasury department
26:59His power unrivaled throughout the land
27:01Yet he was never married
27:01Rumors swirled throughout the city
27:02Wind Manor was easy to find
27:03The gatekeeper saw me
27:04Checked the portrait and announced my arrival
27:05I walked through the winding corridors
27:06And ran straight into Jonathan
27:07He was still as dignified and graceful as ever
27:08The mole beside his eye was still captivating
27:09He asked about that rascal husband of mine
27:11I made up an excuse without thinking
27:12When he asked if I was well
27:13I said everywhere was fine
27:14Except without you
27:15In the back courtyard
27:16Mother pulled me into her arms
27:17Father's eyes grew red as well
27:18Second brother placed in the top three
27:20Third brother worked in the ministry of works
27:21Her wife was a forthright woman
27:22She told me grace was an expectant consort
27:24Her marriage was won by Jonathan's persistence
27:25Not long after
27:26Grace belly round
27:27Threw herself at me
27:28Crying as she exposed my lie about my husband
27:29After supper
27:30Jonathan called me to the study
27:31Snowflakes settled upon my hair
27:32As if we'd grown old together
27:33After supper
27:33Jonathan called me to the study
27:35Snowflakes settled upon my hair
27:35As if we'd grown old together
27:36He asked why I didn't want to marry him
27:37And if I thought he was unclean
27:38In a rare moment of courage
27:39I kissed him
27:40Then flustered
27:40I fled in haste
27:41And hid myself within Dalehurst estate
27:42On the eleventh day
27:43Dean arrived to escort me to the palace
27:44Within the royal study
27:45The emperor smiled as he exposed my falsehood
27:46He then gathered all the court officials
27:47And bathed them accuse Jonathan of immoral conduct in the palace
27:49Magistrate George made the first challenge
27:51I stepped forward and declared
27:52Jonathan bore disgrace for the sake of his family
27:54He concealed himself to aid your majesty
27:55He endured humiliation and hardship
27:56How could that be disloyal?
27:57The treasury of Grand Crest overflows
27:59It's his achievement
28:00My words left Magistrate George speechless
28:01The emperor applauded and praised me
28:02He forbade anyone to mention Jonathan's past
28:04On the road leaving the palace
28:05For the first time I called his name
28:06I confessed I was not worthy of him
28:07Yet he turned and replied
28:08Who is worthy of him
28:09Is for him to decide
28:10In the wind manner
28:10I no longer hid from him
28:11A few days later
28:12Jonathan returned late
28:12He fainted in the icy bathhouse
28:14The page boy said he would see only me
28:15Gazing upon the old scars
28:16Crisscrossing his body
28:16I recalled all his past suffering
28:17I couldn't hold back my feelings anymore
28:19So I bent down and kissed him
28:19Gazing upon the old scars
28:20Crisscrossing his body
28:21I recalled all his past suffering
28:22I couldn't hold back my feelings anymore
28:23So I bent down and kissed him
28:24At dawn the next morning
28:24Mother was standing at my bedside
28:25Jonathan knelt upon the floor
28:26His face beaming with joy
28:27Mother decided to set a date
28:28For our wedding
28:29The emperor bestowed the marriage
28:30It would be on the 8th day of December
28:31I awaited my marriage at Dalehurst Estate
28:32Grace kept me company every day
28:33Jonathan came twice
28:34But each time Grace sent him away
28:35He left me some notes
28:37Saying that he'd fallen for me long ago
28:38But I never knew
28:38And that he was really happy
28:39To marry me soon
28:40On the 8th day of December
28:41An auspicious day
28:42I departed from Dalehurst Estate
28:43Jonathan came for me in festive attire
28:44His gaze was so tender as he said
28:45Macy Wynn
28:46I've come to marry you
28:47I sat down my round fan
28:48Looking upon his handsome brow and eyes
28:49I remember the farewell in the blizzard
28:51It felt as though a lifetime had passed
28:52After our wedding
28:52He cherished me a lot
28:53He accompanied me
28:54Ate my dumplings
28:54And listened to my tales of East Shore
28:56At last I understood
28:56The finest love was not found in matching status
28:58After weathering every storm together
28:59He still held my hand
29:00And said
29:00For the rest of my life
29:01I will be with you
29:02I was lucky enough
29:03In this tumultuous world
29:04To find my true love for life
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