- 19 hours ago
The King Fell For His Outcast - Hot
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00After I entered the royal palace, I accidentally crossed Lady Catherine's royal procession and said...
00:14Boldness! How dare you offend the king and his ladies!
00:21To comfort Lady Catherine, King Henry vowed to her that he would never show me favor in this lifetime.
00:26King Henry's words are to be taken seriously.
00:27Before long, I was banished to the most remote corner, the west wing of the palace.
00:31Three years passed without once seeing King Henry.
00:33Just when I thought spending my life this way wasn't so bad, King Henry knocked on my door, keeping shelter
00:38from the rain.
00:39The 4th of March was Lady Catherine's birthday.
00:41Every wing of the palace was bustling.
00:43Those of lower court rank scrambled to come up with something clever.
00:45A gift to make Lady Catherine smile.
00:47Those ranked just below her.
00:49They sat back and watched with wide eyes, hoping something would go wrong.
00:53None of this had anything to do with me.
00:54Because although I was King Henry's woman, I held no court rank, and had never once laid eyes on the
00:59king.
00:59Three years, and still nothing more than a woman nobody wanted.
01:02That did spare me a great deal of trouble though.
01:04Besides, I had other things to attend to.
01:06I had to deliver my needlework from the past fortnight to the royal surgeon at the royal infirmary before curfew.
01:10Around this time each month, he would go to Lady Rose's chambers to make a health assessment, passing through the
01:15king's private garden on his way.
01:16All I had to do was wait there and slip in my work, and he'd tell them outside the palace
01:19for me, bring the money back in.
01:21In the palace, a lady out of favor like me, having no money meant being utterly stuck.
01:25But that day, just after I'd handed over the goods, it began to pour on my way back to the
01:28west.
01:29I ran into the rain. Before I could even change out of his made clothes, a sharp voice came from
01:33behind me, laced with irritation.
01:35What are you running for? I called you several times.
01:38Go tidy up the courtyard. King Henry needs shelter from the rain.
01:42It was Sir Leon, King Henry's chief steward. I ducked my head at once. Then, facing the rain, I cursed
01:47into him.
01:48Without daring to linger a moment longer, I hurried inside and began tidying up.
01:52But no matter how much I tidied, the place was still pitiful. The royal household offices never bothered the king.
01:57There wasn't even water in here, let alone mulled wine. This rain could not have come at a worse time.
02:01It had brought this devil to my door. Sure enough, after King Henry stepped inside, he didn't sit.
02:06He didn't look at me. He simply stood beneath the eaves. I stood behind him.
02:09My clothes soaked through and couldn't help but let out a cough. Then I felt a gaze settle on me.
02:13It lingered for a long time. A long silence passed before the owner of that gaze finally spoke.
02:18His voice was clear and pleasant, yet carried absolute authority.
02:20Are you the maid here?
02:24I was still wearing maid's clothes. Besides, yes, there was no other answer to give.
02:28If I said no, people would wonder. I was King Henry's woman.
02:31Why was I dressed as a maid? And where had I just been? What was I doing? Who had I
02:35seen?
02:35I figured, it's not like I'd ever see King Henry again anyway.
02:39A hint of displeasure entered his voice.
02:41Who is your mistress?
02:42I understood what he meant. He was the King, the Supreme Sovereign. Wherever he went, everyone was expected to come
02:48out and pay respects.
02:50And yet the Lady of the West Wing hadn't shown herself. She'd sent a mere maid to wait on him,
02:54meek and trembling.
02:55I exhaled silently. Disaster was upon him. I was just bowing in terror, scrambling for an excuse when Sir Leon
03:01spoke first.
03:01Your Majesty, the only one living here is Elena Shenton.
03:05King Henry furrowed his brow. Three years ago, when he first succeeded early to the crown, he had selected over
03:10a dozen ladies for the palace. Each had long since been given her own chambers.
03:14How was there still a lady living in this forgotten wing?
03:16Your Majesty, three years ago a lady offended Lady Catherine.
03:20At that, King Henry's expression froze for just a moment. A flicker of understanding crossed his handsome face.
03:25Ah, Elena Shenton. She has only you, one maid, to attend her?
03:31Yes. King Henry lost all interest in asking further. He seemed to understand now why this place was so desolate.
03:37Because three years ago, he had personally vowed to Lady Catherine that he would never visit Elena Shenton for the
03:42rest of his life.
03:43Even if I lived in this palace to eighty years old, I would never see him again.
03:47No matter how beautiful I was, no matter how charming, King Henry, high above all, would never spare me a
03:52second place.
03:53Because that was his own oath, spoken from his own mouth. What king would break a vow for the sake
03:57of the war?
03:58This rain dragged on far too long. I stood off to the side, legs going numb, my head going heavier.
04:03King Henry never told me what would change. And then, I fainted.
04:06Just before I blacked out, I instinctively reached for King Henry to steady myself.
04:09But this man was too cold-hearted. He froze for just a moment, then shoved me away.
04:13I hit the ground.
04:16When I came to, the rain had stopped. I was still lying where I'd fallen. Not a graceful sight.
04:20My maid, Wynne, had been with me since I'd left the house of Shenton. Over ten years now.
04:24She'd gone to the royal kitchen earlier, then got caught in the downpour.
04:27She'd only just returned. Seeing me like this, she hurried over, helped me up.
04:31Brought you some oatmeal. Good thing you can still trade those embroidered holy badges for some jewelry.
04:37I changed out of my wet clothes, ate the oatmeal, and finally slept.
04:42When I woke, Wynne told me that shortly after the rain cleared, King Henry had happened upon Lady Serena in
04:47the king's private garden.
04:48Every woman in the palace has a different fortune, but you...
04:52I would never have my day. I didn't take it to heart. I said a few words to soothe her,
04:56then started to get up.
04:59After lying so long, my back ached badly. But then Wynne suddenly placed a silk handkerchief before me.
05:04Oh, is this yours? I've never seen it before.
05:08I looked at her palm. A green handkerchief, embroidered with laurel. Fine workmanship, made from this year's finest silk. Clearly
05:15it wasn't mine. A possibility struck me.
05:18The color drained from my face. I looked at Wynne.
05:22This might be... King Henry's.
05:27I pressed my lips together and told her everything just happened.
05:29What do we do? If King Henry sends someone back for it?
05:32I clutched the silk handkerchief, gazing out at the knight.
05:35We'll just take it one step at a time.
05:37After that day, I worried for quite a while, but no one from King Henry's side ever came looking for
05:41the handkerchief.
05:42Only then did I finally let my guard down. Until one night, I was just about to sleep when knocking
05:47came at the door. Loud and urgent. Then I heard a familiar voice.
05:50Open up!
05:52Wynne's hand froze on its way to the door. I clenched my fists and told her,
05:55Go lie back down. Give me your outer coat.
05:57That day, when I'd fall into the ground, King Henry and his attendants may have already seen my face. Now,
06:02I could only keep up the lie.
06:03I opened the door. I heard a voice laced with barely concealed anger.
06:06When I came by the other day, I lost a silk handkerchief. Did you see it?
06:10I kept my head bowed, pretending to think.
06:13Was it a green one?
06:15I put it away for safekeeping.
06:17King Henry let out a cold laugh.
06:18It's mine. Go fetch it.
06:22I moved quickly. Before long, I was back, presenting the handkerchief with both hands.
06:26Sir Leon hurried to say,
06:28Your majesty, you see? The handkerchief is perfectly fine. Lady Catherine will surely be pleased when she knows.
06:33Only then did I understand why King Henry had been so overbearing tonight.
06:37This handkerchief was a gift from Lady Catherine, his favorite.
06:40Earlier, Lady Catherine had asked about it.
06:42When King Henry couldn't produce it, she'd thrown a fit.
06:45Bringing up Lady Serena, who'd been enjoying quite a bit of royal attention lately.
06:48She pouted. She wept. She made a scene.
06:50Said King Henry didn't care about her at all.
06:52The two of them was horrible, and King Henry had come here looking for it.
06:55I stood in silence, bending my waist even lower.
06:58But to my surprise, King Henry didn't take the handkerchief right away.
07:01Instead, he fixed his gaze on me.
07:03After a long moment, his voice came low and deliberate.
07:06I remember you.
07:07Last time you nearly fainted into my arms.
07:09Lift your head.
07:10I understood now.
07:12That last time, after I'd fallen, he hadn't turned back to look at me.
07:15Tonight there was no wind.
07:16No rain.
07:17Only a bright moon hanging high.
07:18Casting its light upon the slender curve of a woman's wrist.
07:21Looking closer.
07:22A graceful waist.
07:23A bowed head.
07:24Even without seeing the face one could tell, she was beautiful.
07:26And for a man as exalted as King Henry to say such words, it wasn't hard to guess what thought
07:31had stirred.
07:32If this had happened three years ago, when I'd first been sent here, I would have been thrilled.
07:36But the woman standing here now had endured three years of neglect.
07:39My heart had been ground smooth.
07:41I no longer dreamed.
07:42I no longer wished to beg for a scrap of a king's love.
07:44Besides, if he knew I was actually Elena Shenton, the woman he'd long since discarded, he would be furious.
07:50This was the crime of deceiving the crown.
07:52Was I supposed to faint again?
07:53The thought had barely crossed my mind when a voice called from outside.
07:56Your majesty.
07:57Lady Catherine has sent someone to look for you.
07:59At that, King Henry let out a soft scoff.
08:02He paid me no more attention.
08:04Let's go.
08:05At least she has some conscience.
08:06With that, he casually took the handkerchief from my hand, tucked it safely against his chest, turned, and walked away.
08:15After that little episode, King Henry spent the next half month in Lady Catherine's chambers.
08:20Poor Lady Serena, she'd barely had her moment before being shoved back down.
08:24As for me, I suppose I'd seen too much of this sort of thing.
08:27My heart didn't stir at all, for a moment, I thought.
08:30The way things are now isn't so bad, really.
08:32I'm not going to let you go again.
08:34My maternal family was weak, no backing, no connections.
08:37And I was destined never to receive the King's favor.
08:41No one would ever remember me or spare me a thought.
08:44It was then, the second rain of spring arrived.
08:46Wynne came down with a fever that lasted an entire day.
08:48I gave her several remedies, but nothing worked.
08:50So I thought I'd try my luck in the King's private garden.
08:53Maybe I'd run into the royal surgeon.
08:54I remembered he carried a kind of pill that worked well for fevers.
08:58Luck was on my side.
09:01That man returned yesterday.
09:04I looked up.
09:05He asked me to tell you.
09:07He'll find a way to get you out of here.
09:12Worried about Wynne, I hurried on my way back.
09:14I wasn't watching my step and nearly tripped.
09:16A man stood in the pavilion.
09:17It's you.
09:19Why can you never keep your footing?
09:21Come here.
09:22My heart tightened.
09:23I gripped my umbrella and walked over.
09:25I could feel it, his mood was foul.
09:27Worse than the night he'd come looking for the handkerchief.
09:29Back then, the anger had been on the surface, as if he'd wanted it to be seen.
09:33Now it was different.
09:34Your Majesty, this time he was completely alone.
09:36He looked more like a man who'd stepped out to watch the rain.
09:38The rain's coming down hard today.
09:40Everyone else has shut themselves indoors, yet here you are, practically running.
09:44What's the hurry?
09:46Never mind.
09:47Forget I asked.
09:49Thank you, Your Majesty.
09:50I am the sovereign of this realm.
09:52I possess everything under heaven.
09:54And yet you don't wish to be my woman.
09:56Why?
09:59It is precisely because of that, Your Majesty, that I dare not presume.
10:03King Henri paused.
10:04Something in my answer seemed to please him.
10:06I'll take your word for it.
10:07This once.
10:09Go.
10:12Tomorrow night, I'll be here waiting for you.
10:15Yes, Your Majesty.
10:17This time again, he hadn't seen my face.
10:20Yet he'd recognized me at a single glance.
10:22And told me to come again tomorrow.
10:23Perhaps it was only something said in passing.
10:25Perhaps tomorrow I would come and find no one here.
10:27But he was the king he'd spoken.
10:29I had to obey.
10:30It wasn't until much later that I learned.
10:32This day was the memorial of his mother.
10:33King Henri's birth mother was the Lady Rose of that era.
10:36The most beautiful woman in the realm.
10:38It was said she already had someone she loved.
10:40But the late king kept her in the royal palace by force.
10:42She bore the present King Henri.
10:44While King Henri was still a young boy, Lady Rose died.
10:46Consumed by grief.
10:49The next night when I arrived, King Henri was already there.
10:52No one beside him, as before.
10:53Clearly King Henri had given orders beforehand.
10:56Toe Knight, it would only be him and me.
10:58He stood with his hands clasped behind his back.
11:00Not turning to look at me.
11:01Come here.
11:02Stand before me.
11:03I had considered painting dark spots on my face.
11:06But the moment I stepped out of the west wing, I changed my mind.
11:09I washed the spots off.
11:10Playing tricks in front of him was too dangerous.
11:12The more I tried to hide, the more it would seem like I had something to conceal.
11:15He reached out, his hand finding my chin.
11:18Then, with a slight force, he tilted my face up, fully exposed before his eyes.
11:22When he saw me clearly his brow tightened.
11:24His expression turned unreadable.
11:25But his hand stayed on my chin.
11:27He didn't let go.
11:27After a long moment, I heard a soft laugh.
11:30His features gradually eased.
11:32You're not ugly.
11:34So why were you afraid to let me see?
11:38I didn't know why a king so far above would bother toying with a maid.
11:42But there it was.
11:43As he left, he looked down at me through lowered lashes.
11:45A faint smile at his lips.
11:46What's your name?
11:47I looked up in shock.
11:48I'll grant you a future.
11:50Come serve me.
11:51What do you say?
11:51For a maid, this was indeed a splendid future.
11:53But he had once said with his own mouth, he would never favor me again in this lifetime.
11:57When word of King Henry's rejection reached beyond the palace walls,
11:59the Shenton family had been so terrified they sent a message that very night.
12:02They told me to consider myself no longer their daughter.
12:04To stay quiet in the royal palace and never provoke anyone again.
12:07I am Elena Shenton.
12:09King Henry was very patient.
12:10Seeing I didn't answer, he asked again.
12:12You don't want to?
12:13I drew a deep breath and suddenly dropped to my knees.
12:15It isn't that I don't want to.
12:16It's only I've served Elena Shenton for so long.
12:19The bond between a mistress and her maid runs deep.
12:21I truly cannot bear to leave her.
12:23King Henry seemed not to have expected this answer.
12:25His brow tightened.
12:26Then he reached out and helped me to my feet.
12:28His hand was cold, like the man himself.
12:30She is rather pitiful, I suppose.
12:33His expression was stern, yet something in it softened.
12:35Perhaps he recalled that crumbling wing of the palace.
12:37He smiled.
12:38Then stay with her for now.
12:40My hand, still lightly held in his went rigid.
12:42Those words were ambiguous, and they made me uneasy.
12:46My legs were weak on the walk back.
12:48Who could have imagined a man I hadn't seen in three years?
12:51Three encounters in a matter of days, and today saying such things to me.
12:54It was terrifying.
12:56But fortunately, for a long time after that, I didn't see King Henry again.
13:00Because Lady Nya was with child.
13:02This was King Henry's first.
13:03Naturally, nothing could be left to chance, everyone said.
13:06If she delivered safely, Lady Nya was about to attain high position and great wealth.
13:10In the beginning, she and I had shared the same wing.
13:12She was gentle by nature.
13:14I often stood up for her.
13:15I was moved to the west wing.
13:16We never saw each other again after that.
13:18Who would have thought?
13:19Someone so low-key back then, look at her now.
13:22Lady Catherine was King Henry's greatest love, domineering, imperious.
13:26All these years, could possibly conceive a child right under her nose.
13:30And yet, Lady Nya had done just that.
13:32King Henry personally ordered us to hold a celebration for Lady Nya,
13:35and to send gifts made by our own hands.
13:38In past years, this had nothing to do with me.
13:41But this time, King Henry suddenly asked,
13:43Isn't there still a lady called Elena Shenlid in the west wing?
13:47Make sure she is told.
13:50After much deliberation, I sent a handmade doll.
13:53When I delivered it to Lady Nya's quarters, Lady Catherine happened to be coming out.
13:57She looked no different from three years ago.
13:59Still surrounded by her entourage.
14:01Still haughty.
14:02Still beautiful.
14:03Only, her complexion wasn't great.
14:05When she saw me, she spared me a single cold glance before looking away,
14:09as though she had never known me at all.
14:10Or rather, in her mind, the me of today posed no threat whatsoever.
14:13Nothing like three years ago, when she'd treated me like a dire enemy the moment she laid eyes on me,
14:18and immediately made a scene, forcing King Henry to make that vow.
14:22I waited outside for a full two hours before someone came to tell me that Lady Nya was dining with
14:27King Henry inside,
14:28and likely wouldn't have time to see me.
14:30No wonder Lady Catherine had looked so upset just now.
14:32Lady Elena, perhaps you should come another day.
14:35I'd known it wouldn't be that easy.
14:37I said nothing more and agreed to leave.
14:39But I'd barely taken a few steps when someone caught up from behind.
14:42One of King Henry's attendants, he looked rather young, probably new to the King's service.
14:46He called out to me.
14:46King Henry just learned you came by.
14:48He sent me to catch up with you.
14:49King Henry says he hopes you treat your maid Winnie well.
14:52In the future, the King would bestow many gifts.
14:54I smiled and accepted the message.
14:56Then I watched with my own eyes.
14:58King Henry's royal carriage parked not far off.
15:00His back was to me.
15:01The young attendant who had just found me was now at his side, whispering something.
15:04King Henry actually laughed.
15:06No need to bring her over.
15:07Let's go.
15:08After watching him leave with my own eyes,
15:10I turned back and requested to see Lady Nia once more.
15:14Of all the gifts presented to Lady Nia, only my doll received King Henry's praise.
15:19The person who came to deliver my reward was the same young attendant from that day.
15:23After handing over the gifts, he didn't leave right away.
15:25Instead, he glanced at Win behind me.
15:27After looking, he seemed puzzled.
15:30A long moment passed before he offered.
15:32Since King Henry has bestowed so many gifts upon you,
15:36perhaps in the next day or two when you have time,
15:38you could make some honey cake or the like,
15:41and send it to the King's chambers as a gesture of gratitude.
15:44I nodded.
15:45Of course.
15:46The moment he left, the news spread everywhere.
15:50Inevitably, people brought up what happened three years ago.
15:52But by nightfall, all of that was overshadowed.
15:55Everyone laughed and said King Henry's praise was really just the carrot and stick,
15:59because the palace had announced that Marshal Fenwick had returned victorious from campaign,
16:03and King Henry was very pleased.
16:06At month's end, a group of maids and ladies the King had never favored would be released from the palace.
16:11In hundreds of years, this had never happened before.
16:13It was the first time.
16:15My name was on the list.
16:16Wins was not.
16:17And yet, she was several years older than me.
16:19Well past the age when she could have been released.
16:22The next day, I went to the great kitchen.
16:25This time, I didn't spend a coin.
16:26I merely mentioned I needed to prepare a gesture of gratitude for the King.
16:30And they cleared the kitchen for me, even sparing two helpers.
16:33By the time the honey cake was finished, it was already afternoon.
16:36I didn't wear maid's clothes.
16:38Instead, I changed into my own court attire.
16:40When I arrived outside the royal study, the maid posted at the door told me King Henry was still inside,
16:45discussing matters with someone.
16:47She told me to go in and wait in the side chamber.
16:49The moment I stepped in, I heard a voice on the other side of the screen, laughing with open delight.
16:53They made no effort to keep their voices down.
16:55King Henry's voice came unhurried, laced with amusement.
16:58No wonder you've refused to marry all these years.
17:00So you had your eye on her.
17:01Come to think of it, my vow back then did you a favor.
17:03As it happens, I've been meaning to send her away for some time now.
17:05This works out perfectly for everyone.
17:07We've served together for years and you of all people so cold, Inrun.
17:10It's rare for you to take a liking to someone.
17:12I'll make sure it happens.
17:13Incense curled through the hall.
17:15I lifted my head and heard another voice, cold as struck Jade.
17:18It's been three years.
17:19I want to know how is she.
17:20What luck!
17:21Her personal maid is on the other side of that screen right now.
17:24I'll call her in, ask whatever you like.
17:26Before I could react, footsteps were already approaching.
17:29Then I saw two men enter, one after the other.
17:32King Henry glanced at my clothes, his brow furrowed.
17:34Then he waved me over.
17:35Come, tell him about your mistress.
17:37I walked before them, but couldn't bring myself to speak.
17:40Marshal Fenwick was watching me too.
17:42His gaze sharpened.
17:43The silence said everything.
17:44King Henry suddenly let out a cold laugh.
17:46His deep eyes fixed on me, and he spoke word by word.
17:48I told you to speak.
17:49Why won't you?
17:50I clenched my teeth and dropped to my knees.
17:51Your majesty, the truth is-
17:53Get out!
17:54King Henry cut me off.
17:55I could only rise.
17:56Just as I was about to step through the door, Marshal Fenwick's voice stopped me.
18:00Elena.
18:00I halted.
18:01His voice was low.
18:02Never mind.
18:05I waited outside for a long time.
18:07Finally, Fenwick emerged.
18:09Under everyone's watchful eyes, he said nothing to me and left.
18:12I knelt outside.
18:13My head bowed low.
18:14A long time passed before the hem of King Henry's robe entered my vision.
18:18Yet at this moment, he seemed almost amused by his own anger.
18:21He drawled.
18:23Elena Shonten.
18:24I bowed.
18:24Yes.
18:25Inside.
18:26I followed him in.
18:27The moment I crossed the threshold, a hand tilted my chin up.
18:30Do you understand that you've committed the crime of deceiving the crown?
18:34I met his gaze, about to speak, but he was already laughing coldly.
18:37His words like a blade.
18:39Let me explain it for you.
18:40That day you were wearing maid's clothes when you happened upon me.
18:43You assumed you'd never crossed my path again, and you feared I'd ask why you were
18:46out in the rain so you simply kept up the lie.
18:48I nodded.
18:49No.
18:49Your majesty.
18:50Good.
18:51Then answer me this.
18:53Who did you go see that day?
18:54One of Fenwick's people?
18:56He stared at me, not letting a single flicker of expression escape.
18:59I explained softly.
19:00It was Lady Nia.
19:01We've knew each other a long time.
19:03I went to her prizately that day to cast for her help.
19:05If your majesty doesn't believe me, you may ask her yourself.
19:09I couldn't tell if King Henry believed me, but the pressure of his hand eased slightly,
19:12and his expression was no longer as severe.
19:14Help with what?
19:15How I've been living these years, you should have some idea.
19:18He raised a brow.
19:19Oh?
19:19I wanted to borrow some money from her.
19:21This time, King Henry actually laughed.
19:24Money, or even power.
19:27Wouldn't it have been simpler to come to me?
19:29I froze, then dropped to my knees.
19:31He looked down at me.
19:32After a long pause, his throat moved.
19:34He let out a scoff.
19:35Too bad.
19:36You no longer have that chance.
19:38Before you arrived, I had already promised to give you to Marshal Fenwith.
19:41He traded his war credits for it.
19:43He asked for no gold or silver, only that I pardon your crime of deception, so it seems I
19:47got quite the bargain.
19:48Two months from now is the day you leave.
19:50Go.
19:51The King's word is final.
19:52It was so three years ago.
19:54It is so now.
19:56Before all of this, Marshal Fenwick and I had only met twice.
19:59The first time he was young and destitute, nearly dying of illness in the street.
20:03I was the one who called a physician for him.
20:06The second time was on the eve of my entering the royal palace.
20:09By then he'd already made a name for himself on the frontier.
20:11He rode back from a thousand miles away to say goodbye, and left the royal surgeon behind
20:15to look after me.
20:16I never imagined that when we met again, I would be the one trapped and destitute in the
20:19palace, while he stood at the pinnacle of power trading his war merits to pardon my crime.
20:23I hadn't expected he would go this far for me.
20:25Nor had I imagined that the way out the royal surgeon had spoken of, was this.
20:29I knelt before King Henry and raised the matter of Wynne.
20:31Your Majesty.
20:32Wynne is already old enough to be released yet her name wasn't on the list.
20:35King Henry helped me to my feet.
20:37He studied me, his gaze sharp and fathomless as though trying to peer into my very heart.
20:40Why do you think her name wasn't on the list?
20:43Because of me.
20:44Because of those three chance encounters.
20:46The rain-soaked first meeting.
20:47The knock at my door in the dead of night.
20:49Idle words under the moon.
20:50He had his own selfish reasons.
20:52He'd wanted to keep me by his side, which was why he'd been willing to release Elena
20:56Shenton, honoring what I'd called the bond between mistress and maid.
20:58In the silence of the deep palace, he sighed.
21:01So be it.
21:02She is just a maid.
21:03I'll have her name added tomorrow.
21:04That night, the royal household offices sent a great many things to the West Wing.
21:08Fortunately, everyone already knew I was leaving soon.
21:10No one paid much attention.
21:12Only Lady Nia.
21:13Seizing the opportunity sent some jewelry over as well.
21:15Along with a single message.
21:17From this day forward, we're even.
21:19Back then, if she hadn't pushed me on that path, I never would have crossed Lady Catherine's
21:22procession in front of everyone.
21:23The human heart is treacherous.
21:25The world unpredictable.
21:26Years later, I used that very incident to pressure her into covering for me in front
21:29of King Henry.
21:30Nodded.
21:31Agreed.
21:31Privately I found the royal surgeon and asked him to pass a message to Fenwick.
21:35Marrying me.
21:35You got the short end of the deal.
21:37If you regret it now, perhaps there is still a way out.
21:39Two days later, the royal surgeon brought back Fenwick's reply.
21:42He said,
21:42Not a loss.
21:43No regrets.
21:46Grey royal stone wall stands closely.
21:48Moonlight pooling on quiet steps.
21:49With a patron saint's feast approaching, the royal palace bustled once more.
21:52This time, I couldn't hide away.
21:54Because the doll I'd made for Lady Naya had earned King Henry's praise, Lady Catherine
21:58had now ordered me to embroider one for the king as well.
22:00She summoned me specifically for this.
22:03The moment I stepped inside, someone tripped me.
22:05I couldn't tell who.
22:06My palm hit the ground and slid open, drawing blood.
22:10I consider myself beautiful.
22:13And yet I must admit, you are exquisite.
22:17A pity.
22:18A pearl about to be buried in the dust.
22:20Once you leave, I doubt anyone will marry you.
22:23Cherish these last two months.
22:26Yes, my lady.
22:28It wasn't hard to understand, really.
22:29These past days, the whole palace had heard.
22:31That Lady Naya and I were old friends, closest sisters, and that I'd gone to her for money.
22:35Lady Naya was with child.
22:36Lady Catherine was displeased and had been rebuffed by her.
22:38Naturally, she needed somewhere to vent.
22:39As I left Lady Catherine's quarters, I happened to cross paths with King Henry.
22:43His attendants trailed behind him, bearing treasures meant for Lady Catherine.
22:45As the procession passed me, King Henry kept his eyes forward.
22:48He didn't spare me a glance.
22:50I walked on a few more steps, then heard a voice from behind.
22:53Wait outside.
22:54Just a few words.
22:55But they brooked no argument.
22:56I thought I'd be waiting a long time.
22:58Just like three years ago, when I knelt outside Lady Catherine's chambers, my face slapped red and swollen.
23:02King Henry walked past me, hurrying inside to comfort her.
23:04He soothed her for three hours.
23:06And only at the very end did he finally say,
23:07Lightly send her somewhere.
23:08I don't have to see her.
23:09But this time, I only waited a short while before King Henry emerged.
23:12He stood before me and said,
23:13Follow me.
23:15As I followed him, I realized at some point, every attendant around King Henry had vanished.
23:19It was only the two of us.
23:21I couldn't help asking,
23:22Your Majesty, is there something you wish to instruct me on?
23:25He stopped.
23:26His gaze lingered on my face for a moment, then dropped to the hand.
23:29Show me.
23:30I looked at him, hesitant.
23:31King Henry produced a tin of ointment from somewhere and said, almost mockingly, though there was something stiff about it.
23:35Doesn't it hurt?
23:36Give me your hand.
23:36I'll dress it.
23:38I rushed to refuse.
23:40There's no need, but he'd already seized my hand and begun applying the salve.
23:43His touch wasn't gentle exactly, but it was light.
23:45When he finished, he looked at me, eyes dark.
23:47Every woman in this palace is insufferably pampered.
23:50Lose a strand of hair and they're at my feet, weeping.
23:52And yet you?
23:52You can't get away from me fast enough.
23:54I looked at him and pulled my hand free.
23:55Which proves my point, Your Majesty.
23:57Your interest in me is only passing.
24:00Once I leave, you'll never think of me again.
24:02He was silent for a long time.
24:04How do you know I haven't truly taken a liking at you?
24:07That you're not already in my heart.
24:09I stepped back half a pace.
24:10I am not worthy of such words.
24:12Not I but your humble subject.
24:13And soon another man's wife.
24:15King Henri stood perfectly still.
24:16The corner of his mouth barely lifted.
24:18His gaze razor sharp.
24:19You speak so boldly now.
24:20Because you're certain I'll let you go?
24:22I frowned a moment of silence then.
24:23Your Majesty is the Sovereign.
24:25Naturally your word is your bond.
24:27King Henri always high and mighty, always arrogant.
24:29Looked at the woman before him.
24:30And for the first time felt regretster.
24:31No one could defy his will.
24:33And yet, why should he hold back?
24:34He wasn't a saint.
24:34Why couldn't he, just once, do as he wished.
24:36And leave himself no room for regret.
24:39These past days with the gifts I'd received.
24:41My hands weren't quite so empty anymore.
24:43What arrived from the great kitchen was much better than before.
24:45But one day, when Wynne went to fetch our food.
24:47She ran into one of Lady Serena's maids.
24:49Lady Serena had only recently caught the king's eye very proud.
24:52And naturally her servants had grown proud as well.
24:54They insisted Wynne had taken something that belonged to their quarters.
24:56Everyone knows your lady is about to leave.
24:59She doesn't even have a proper title.
25:01What makes her worthy of food like this?
25:03Wynne couldn't stand it, she argued back.
25:04When Lady Serena heard about it, she personally brought her people to the West Wing.
25:07She walked in, surveyed the courtyard, then looked at me with her chin raised.
25:09After studying me for a moment, she laughed.
25:11Of all the women who entered the royal palace with me, you were the most beautiful.
25:13I never imagined that next time I saw you it would be like this.
25:16Your maid offended me.
25:17Hand her over.
25:18I intend to punish her properly.
25:21Over the years, things like this had happened more than once.
25:23But her coming in person, that was a first.
25:25Perhaps she was afraid that once I left, she'd never have another chance to flaunt herself in front of me.
25:29She waved for her attendants to seize Wynne.
25:31I stepped in front of her.
25:32My lady, do you intend to punish my maid without authority?
25:35The king favors me greatly now.
25:37Let alone your maid, even if I punished you today, no one would say a word.
25:41Take her!
25:41Now!
25:42In the scuffle, I was shoved to the ground.
25:44Wynne's eyes welled with tears.
25:46It's my fault.
25:47I shouldn't have lost my temper.
25:49Your fault?
25:50I'd say it's your mistress's fault.
25:52If she hadn't been so useless.
25:53Offending Lady Catherine, the West Wing, wouldn't have become a place anyone can bully.
25:57The words had barely left her mouth when a voice cut through from outside the courtyard, laced with fury.
26:01Anyone can bully?
26:02What if her rank stood above yours?
26:04Would you still dare?
26:05Lady Serena's body went rigid.
26:06She stared at the newcomer in disbelief, whispering,
26:09Your Majesty.
26:10King Henri's gaze rested on me for a moment, then shifted to Lady Serena.
26:13Lady Serena's eyes glistened with tears.
26:14You enjoy abusing your position that much?
26:16Get out.
26:17She put on a pitiful face and tried to move closer to King Henri.
26:20But he shoved her away.
26:21From now on, you are not to bother Elena Shenhardt again.
26:23Lady Serena didn't dare linger.
26:24She fled with her people in tow.
26:25King Henri walked over.
26:26But he didn't look at me.
26:27He gazed down at Wynne from above.
26:28These three years, every injustice your mistress has suffered.
26:31Tell me.
26:32All of it.
26:33I blurted.
26:34Your Majesty, what are you-
26:35He reached out and gently squeezed my palm.
26:37Go inside.
26:38Until she's finished talking, you are not to come out.
26:41I didn't know how much time passed.
26:43The sun was sinking.
26:44A cool breeze rose.
26:45One hour later, King Henri finally came in from outside.
26:47Not long ago, on a rainy night, he had come here too.
26:50Standing nobly at the threshold.
26:51Refusing to take a single step inside.
26:52This time, he walked through the place he'd once disdained, step by step, until he stood
26:56before me.
26:56He rubbed the space between his brows something like anguish.
26:59I'm sorry.
26:59I put on a look of alarm and gazed up at him.
27:01Your Majesty, why would you say such a thing?
27:04He was the master of the royal palace.
27:06What fault could possibly be his?
27:07Compared to his territories, compared to his ladies, I was utterly negligible.
27:11A single word from him decided the fates of countless people.
27:13I was merely lucky enough to be pitied by him.
27:16The room grew dim.
27:17King Henri looked down at me, his brow furrowed.
27:18What I said, in the courtyard earlier, I meant it.
27:21If you want it.
27:22If you dare.
27:24Today, I could make you-
27:26Your Majesty, I'm about to leave.
27:28I don't want to stir up trouble.
27:29His expression went blank.
27:30The corner of his mouth twitched.
27:32He finally seemed to come back to himself, his voice unsteady.
27:34Right.
27:35I nearly forgot.
27:36I vowed to Lady Catherine I would never favor you.
27:39And I promised Marshal Fenric your hand.
27:42You are leaving the royal palace.
27:44After that day, I shut my doors and didn't go out.
27:46Win told me that after King Henri returned, he flew into a thunderous rage and punished a great many people.
27:51Even Lady Catherine was left in the cold for an entire month.
27:53King Henri didn't favor a single lady.
27:55Before I knew it, the patron saint's feast had arrived.
27:58I saw Marshal Fenwick again.
27:59He wore long robes, his features sharp and elegant.
28:01The scarlet hem of his garment flowed in the wind, lending his entire presence an air of cool detachment.
28:05But when his gaze met mine, he smiled softly.
28:07His smile was like brilliant sunlight.
28:08It wasn't hard to imagine how many ladies admired him.
28:11King Henri stood at the very front.
28:13After he prayed, he suddenly turned and glanced back.
28:15Perhaps it was my imagination.
28:16His gaze lingered on Marshal Fenwick for a moment, then shifted toward where I stood.
28:19A long pause.
28:20Then he turned away.
28:21I watched his retreating figure.
28:22He was only 22, tall, composed, dignified.
28:25King Henri was the king every lady revered and adored.
28:27Decisive, forceful, a man of his word.
28:29But suddenly I remembered five or six years ago on a night at Willow Wharf.
28:32He was still just a young lord.
28:33When I nearly stumbled, he caught my arm and laughed lightly.
28:35Miss, are you here for the boat tour as well?
28:38It's crowded tonight.
28:40Be careful.
28:402
28:402
28:411
28:412
28:425
28:435
Comments