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