- 3 hours ago
I Came to Watch the Drama, Not Become It
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Short filmTranscript
00:00The crown prince takes a consort today. The ceremony is far grander than his wedding.
00:04I grab a handful of snacks and hurry straight to the crown prince's palace.
00:08Sure enough, the new girl comes in boldly, clad in a red gown she shouldn't be wearing.
00:13I'm cracking some seeds when she turns to me.
00:15So you must be the lonely wife he never visits.
00:19You do look prim and proper.
00:21You seem like a wife who knows how to share.
00:23I freeze.
00:24Before I can even answer, she grabs my hand and yanks it toward her.
00:29Her red sleeve tears open with a loud rip.
00:34Why did you ruin my dress?
00:36His highness ordered this silk from Jastora.
00:38He chose it himself to welcome me into the palace.
00:41If you really can't stand me, I suppose I'll just become a nun.
00:46All the palace guests glare at me.
00:48I'm so stunned that I instantly freeze up.
00:51What lonely crown princess?
00:53I'm the current empress and the royal mother of the crown prince.
00:56A fat official in green points right at my face.
01:00You witch!
01:01How dare you rip her grace's wedding gown!
01:04I spit the shell in my mouth straight onto his shoe.
01:06You know who I am.
01:08Lord Yates, please don't blame her.
01:10This is my fault.
01:11I don't deserve this fabric.
01:13She sobs as she speaks, as if I'm about to devour her.
01:16Jeez, she's a good actress.
01:18It's a shame she's not a performer.
01:20I watch with interest.
01:21Then I grab more sunflower seeds and start cracking them.
01:25The palace guests completely lose it.
01:27Some officials call me arrogant, a bitter old hag, long out of favor.
01:31Others say I hate others' joy because his highness dislikes me.
01:35They say I should be divorced.
01:36As these palace officials cuss me out, I realized something.
01:40These social climbers have never seen the new empress.
01:43His majesty knows I hate court and can't read, so he excused me from meeting minor officials.
01:49As a result, I come here for gossip today, and they mistake me for the unlucky crown princess.
01:54I dust the crumbs off my hands and clear my throat.
01:57This is all a misunderstanding, may I explain?
02:00She struggles up from the floor.
02:02Her hair is a mess as she points at a pillar.
02:05Since you can't stand his highness loving me, then I'll take my own life today.
02:11Everyone turns to look at me.
02:13Daphne turns on the waterworks.
02:14That way, you get what you want, and I won't be in your way anymore.
02:18With that, she closes her eyes and lunges toward the pillar.
02:21Several elders nearby nearly lose their souls.
02:23They rush over and grab her by the waist, trying to dissuade her.
02:26I almost laugh out loud.
02:28At that speed, even an elderly lady could outrun her.
02:31When Emery sees me smiling, he nearly blows a fuse.
02:34He storms up to me, his finger almost in my eye.
02:37How can you still laugh?
02:39Can you afford the consequences if she were to get hurt?
02:41My face darkens.
02:43I slap him hard across the face.
02:45Emery's face snaps to the side.
02:47He stares at me in disbelief.
02:48How dare you strike a court official?
02:51Get your hands off me.
02:54Point at me again, and I'll chop it off.
02:57If you're angry, take it out on me.
03:00Why drag Lord Yates into this?
03:02The whole hall erupts.
03:03A few bootlicking officials roll up their sleeves.
03:06They look ready to teach me a lesson.
03:08I scoff.
03:09I was just about to fight them, when a shout booms from outside.
03:12Who dares to bully my sister?
03:16Daphne's eyes light up.
03:17She throws herself into his arms.
03:19If you'd come even one second later, this woman would have driven me to my death.
03:24Derek Lowell pulls her close with a frown.
03:26When he notices the rip in her sleeve, his expression turns thunderous.
03:30What happened?
03:31Why is your dress torn?
03:33It was her.
03:34She tore the silk his highness gave me.
03:36She even tried to force me into a nunnery.
03:38Derek whips around, his glare pining me in place.
03:41He looks me up and down.
03:43If it isn't the old hag who's clinging to a seat she doesn't deserve.
03:47I arch a brow.
03:48Clinging to a seat I don't deserve?
03:50Is he talking about my good-for-nothing daughter-in-law?
03:53I'm about to speak, but Emery scrambles over.
03:57He points at me and starts whining.
03:59Commander Lowell, you're finally here.
04:01This woman isn't just jealous.
04:03She even assaulted a court official.
04:05Please seize her at once and hand her over to his highness.
04:08Derek sees the handprint on Emery's face.
04:10Steps forward, points at me, and curses.
04:13How dare an old hag like you throw her weight around in front of my sister?
04:18Men, lock the doors.
04:20I'll teach you a lesson on his highness's behalf.
04:23With a deafening bang, the crown prince's palace doors slam shut.
04:28Dozens of armed guards rush in, surrounding me on every side.
04:32The guests shrink into the corners in fear.
04:34Daphne leans against Derek, the corners of her lips curling into a smug smile.
04:38Tell you what, if you get on your knees and apologize, maybe I'll ask my brother to spare you.
04:45His highness cares about me.
04:47He didn't trust the servants, so he went to get the phoenix hairpin himself.
04:51Judging by the time, he should be back soon.
04:53If he comes back and sees what you've done, he'll skin you alive.
04:59Apologize.
05:00Only the empress and the crown princess are allowed to wear the phoenix hairpin.
05:05Seems like this place is rotten to its core.
05:08I ignore the blades pointed at me and walk over to the main seat.
05:12I sit down in the crown prince's chair.
05:14Teach me a lesson.
05:16Who do you think you are?
05:17The hall goes dead silent.
05:19Everyone looks at me as if I'm insane.
05:22For a moment, Derek freezes.
05:23Did you just insult me?
05:25I did, you reckless mutt of a servant.
05:28Not only did you barge in here with armed men, but you also insulted me.
05:34You need to be taught a lesson.
05:36Derek's face contorts with rage.
05:38He's used to throwing his weight around here.
05:40He's never experienced this.
05:42She actually called you a mutt?
05:45Derek's eyes reddened as he draws his sword.
05:47He points it at me.
05:48You had your chance, you worthless bitch.
05:50Men, slap her 50 times.
05:53Beat that mouth bloody.
05:55Two guards draw their swords and lunge at me like wolves.
05:58I grab the hot teacup on the table, hurling it straight at them.
06:01Let's see who dares.
06:03If any of you lays a finger on me, this day next year will be your death anniversary.
06:07The guards freeze as they exchange looks.
06:10None of them dares to move.
06:11Derek kicks the lead guard down, cursing them for being useless.
06:14He's about to come at me when Daphne suddenly rushes over.
06:17Today is supposed to be a happy occasion.
06:19She turns around, then she kneels before me.
06:22A gasp ripples through the crowd.
06:23Your Grace, you're a noble.
06:26How could you kneel before her?
06:29Listen, I know you're bitter.
06:31She points at her torn red sleeve.
06:33If you're willing to apologize right now and mend my wedding gown yourself, I'll pretend
06:38none of this happened.
06:39As long as you're willing to bend, I can ensure your survival in this palace.
06:44Now, hurry up and apologize.
07:14I look down at her.
07:16You're asking for it.
07:18He raises his sword and brings the back of the blade down hard behind my knees.
07:22I groan in pain as I collapse to the floor.
07:25Before I can get up, two bulky guards rush over and wrench my arms behind my back.
07:29I struggle, but I can't break free.
07:31Derek grabs the back of my neck.
07:33Still trying to act tough?
07:35He roars, then forces my head toward the floor.
07:38I refuse to bow.
07:40I push back until the veins in my neck strain.
07:43Derek, if you force me to apologize, I swear I'll have your whole family killed.
07:48My whole family?
07:50You'll be dead any second now.
07:52How are you going to come after us?
07:53He presses down harder.
07:55My forehead slams against the brick.
07:57For a moment, my vision turns white as blood runs down my face.
08:01Daphne stands nearby, supported.
08:03She laughs in satisfaction.
08:05The guests watch with indifference as Derek grabs my hair and yanks my face up.
08:09If you don't apologize, you won't leave this place alive.
08:13Blood slips into my eye, staining my vision red.
08:16Daphne walks toward me.
08:17Do you really think you're untouchable?
08:20His Highness won't even step into your room.
08:23Here in this palace, you're worthless.
08:25She lifts her foot and steps on my right hand before grinding her toe down.
08:29I twist my hand free, grab her ankle and yank hard to the side.
08:32Daphne shrieks as she stumbles and falls to the floor.
08:36Derek rushes over and helps her up.
08:38She hides in his arms, crying.
08:40Derek, she's trying to kill me!
08:43Seeing an opening, Emery hurries forward.
08:45Commander Yates, enough talk.
08:47She slapped me earlier.
08:48She has to pay for it.
08:50Emery raises his hand and swings it toward my face.
08:53I lift my right leg and kick him straight in the stomach.
08:56He screams and rolls away.
08:59This is outrageous.
09:02Derek finally loses it.
09:04He grabs my collar and hauls me up.
09:06Last warning.
09:07Apologize or not.
09:08I stare at his face, open my mouth, and spit a mouthful of blood onto him.
09:13No way.
09:14The hall falls silent.
09:16Derek freezes, wiping the blood off his face.
09:18You stupid bitch!
09:20He throws me down, flips the sheath, and aims it at my face.
09:23I'm going to ruin this pretty face of yours.
09:25Let's see how you compete with Daphne after.
09:27Just then, a voice rings out.
09:30His highness has arrived.
09:31I slump in the corner, hair loose over my blood-stained face.
09:36Everyone in the hall drops to their knees at once.
09:38A figure in bright yellow robes strides into the hall.
09:41Daphne's eyes light up as she scrambles toward him.
09:44Your highness, her highness tore my wedding gown.
09:47She tried to kill Derek and Lord Yates.
09:49I was furious, and they couldn't stand watching it either, so they punished her on your behalf.
09:55Now she's slumped in the corner, playing the victim.
09:58Please don't let her fool you.
10:00You did well.
10:02Alaric, why don't you take a good look at me?
10:05You look like you crawled in off the street.
10:07You're embarrassing me.
10:08Your highness, she's only saying that because she wants you to go easy on her.
10:12I know I'm not as important as her, but she's crossed the line.
10:16You have to stand up for me.
10:18How did I even end up with a woman like you?
10:20Please don't upset yourself.
10:21I'll worry about you.
10:22You're amazing, Daphne.
10:24He passes the box in his arms to Daphne.
10:26You've been through a lot.
10:28I retrieved this phoenix hairpin for you myself.
10:30How dare a barren hag cause trouble in my palace?
10:34You clearly took my kindness for weakness.
10:37Bring me brush and ink.
10:39I'm writing a divorce letter and getting rid of this woman.
10:42The guests can barely hide their delight.
10:45Emery and Derek are gloating, eager to see me kicked out.
10:48I slowly push myself up, brushing my tangled hair behind my ear.
10:51My face is exposed.
10:53Watch your words.
10:55Who exactly are you divorcing?
10:56Alaric turns toward my voice.
10:58The second our eyes meet, his pupils widen in terror.
11:04The box slips from his hands, crashing to the floor.
11:07The hairpin rolls out.
11:08Daphne looks heartbroken.
11:10Your highness, how could you drop it?
11:12She rushes for the pin, as does Derek.
11:15Please calm down.
11:16I'll drag this eyesore out right now and beat her to death.
11:19Alaric trembles.
11:20He then turns and slaps Daphne across the face.
11:23The sharp smack cuts through the entire hall.
11:25Daphne hits the floor and clutches her cheek, too stunned to react.
11:29Alaric ignores her.
11:30He raises his foot and kicks Derek in the chest,
11:33sending him flying backward until he lands hard.
11:35Only after that do Alaric's knees buckle.
11:38He drops before me, bowing stiffly on the brick floor.
11:41Greetings, mother.
11:43The hall goes dead silent.
11:44Emery's eyes roll back, and he faints.
11:47Daphne was dumbstruck.
11:48She stares at Alaric, face blank.
11:51I press a handkerchief to the cut on my forehead.
11:53Alaric, your palace has opened my eyes.
11:55He trembles, his tone remorseful.
11:58Please forgive me.
11:58I didn't know you were here.
12:00I peer down at him.
12:01You didn't know.
12:02I draw.
12:03You didn't know who I was,
12:04so you let a mistress parade around like she owned the place.
12:07And you let a commander lay hands on the empress.
12:10I toss the bloodied handkerchief onto his face.
12:12Do you know what the punishment for your insolence is?
12:15The Minister of Rights finally sees my face clearly.
12:18He drops to the floor, voice shaking.
12:21The family is to die.
12:23Daphne goes white with fear.
12:24She scrambles toward Alaric.
12:26Your Highness, this has to be a joke.
12:28How could the barren crown princess be the empress?
12:30Alaric kicks her away.
12:32Silence!
12:33She is the newly appointed empress.
12:35Daphne collapses, the color draining from her face.
12:38Only then does her mistake sink in.
12:41She shakes her head in a panic.
12:43Your Majesty, please have mercy on me.
12:45I walk over and look down at her.
12:48Didn't you say you'd ensure my survival if I apologized?
12:51Daphne trembles like a leaf, raising her hand and slapping herself.
12:54I was wrong.
12:55I misspoke.
12:56Alaric crawls toward us, intending to plead for her.
12:59Alaric forces a flattering smile and grabs the hem of my robe.
13:02Mother, Daphne is ignorant.
13:04Please show her mercy.
13:05The Minister of Rights looks up and snaps.
13:08Your Highness, Her Majesty was humiliated and injured.
13:11This is an unforgivable crime.
13:13Are you going to protect a mere mistress?
13:15Alaric has no answer.
13:16I can't be bothered with him.
13:17My personal guards finally enter the hall with a squad of royal guards.
13:21I point at Derek.
13:23Drag that insubordinate mutt out and beat him to death.
13:26Strip the mistress naked, then put her on death row.
13:29Derek lets out a desperate scream.
13:31Your Highness, help Daphne, save me.
13:33Several royal guards rush forward and drag him out.
13:36Daphne collapses on the floor.
13:38The guards haul her away just as roughly.
13:40Outside the hall, Derek screams echo through the palace, followed by the sounds of caning.
13:45Before long, the sounds stop completely.
13:47A young eunuch runs in to report.
13:49Your Majesty, he's dead.
13:50Alaric shuts his eyes, his hands clenching into fists.
13:54I give him a cold glance, before turning toward Daphne.
13:57Her red gown has been stripped away, leaving only a scant robe.
14:01I flick my sleeve and say, take her away.
14:04Two royal guards lift Daphne, who has gone limp, and haul her out.
14:08Alaric snaps his head up.
14:10A flash of madness crosses his eyes, and he blocks the guards.
14:13Pointing at Daphne's stomach, he raises his voice.
14:16Mother, this woman may deserve death, but she's already carrying my child.
14:19The hall falls silent once more.
14:21The Minister of Rights expression shifts.
14:24If she carries royal blood, even the Empress can't execute her.
14:28Daphne clutches her stomach and cries.
14:30Your Highness, I don't matter, but our child hasn't even seen the world yet.
14:35Alaric helps her up, then turns to me with undisguised resentment in his voice.
14:40Mother, you knew she was pregnant, yet still wanted her dead.
14:43Are you punishing her, or are you trying to kill my child?
14:46Watching their performance, I nearly applaud.
14:49What a last-minute save.
14:51I'm about to speak, when a neat, heavy march comes from outside the hall.
14:55It's the Crown Prince's army.
14:56Thousands of soldiers surround the hall in moments.
14:59The air goes cold.
15:01My few dozen royal guards are forced back, forming a shield around me.
15:05I look at Alaric coldly.
15:06Alaric, what is this?
15:08Alaric straightens, much more confident now.
15:11He waves a hand.
15:12A palace attendant hurries over with a tray holding a thick stack of letters.
15:16Alaric picks up the top one and holds it high.
15:19Mother, I wanted to keep our scandals behind closed doors, but you pushed me too far.
15:24All eyes turn to me, eager to know what Alaric's going to say.
15:28Alaric points at me and shouts.
15:30These letters were just found under your bed.
15:33They explain exactly how you contacted former court officials,
15:37plan to poison the air on my wedding day,
15:40create chaos, and even depose me so you could climb higher.
15:43The hall erupts.
15:45Treason is the worst crime.
15:47Just awake, Emery hears this.
15:49His eyes roll back, and he faints again.
15:51Daphne leans weakly against Alaric.
15:53She smiles viciously.
15:55That satisfied look on her face is disgusting.
15:58I stare at her, waiting to see what else they've planned.
16:02Daphne deliberately raises her voice, making sure everyone can hear her.
16:07Your Majesty, you were preaching the law earlier,
16:09but you're secretly planning a rebellion.
16:11How can you accuse anyone else?
16:12She lets out a mocking laugh.
16:14By law, that's a death sentence.
16:17I'd love to see how the noble Empress gets out of this one.
16:21Alaric waves his hand.
16:23The soldiers around us move in,
16:25until the bright spearheads are less than a foot from my face.
16:28This is the consort you chose.
16:30What a perfect match.
16:31As expected, this palace is rotten through and through.
16:35Alandor is doomed if the throne ever falls into his hands.
16:38I frown, but my composure doesn't slip.
16:41What exactly are you doing?
16:42Alaric's eyes are bloodshot.
16:44He points at me and gives the final order through clenched teeth.
16:47Guards, seize this treasonous woman.
16:49The spears close in like a wall.
16:51I look at the letters in his hand and suddenly, it all makes sense.
16:55Alaric is afraid my future son will threaten his claim to the throne.
16:59This whole performance has been a bait from the start.
17:02I push aside the spearhead in front of me and walk up to him.
17:05I raise my voice.
17:06You said they were found under my bed.
17:08My dear son, this must have cost you a lot of paper.
17:11Still talking?
17:12Caesar!
17:13A furious voice roars from outside the hall.
17:16Stop!
17:16It's the emperor's voice.
17:18The soldiers part down the middle like a tide.
17:21Caspian Talbot strides in, his face dark with fury.
17:25Behind him are fully armed royal guards.
17:29People drop to their knees across the hall.
17:31Alaric's eyes light up with hope.
17:34He kneels before Caspian and raises the stack of letters high.
17:37Father, you're just in time.
17:40Mother tried to poison my pregnant consort.
17:42I also found these treasonous letters under her bed.
17:45She contacted former officials to try to depose me so she can seize power.
17:52I watch calmly, wanting to see how far they take this.
17:55Daphne kneels too.
17:57She cries pitifully.
17:58Your majesty, if his highness hadn't arrived in time, the royal baby, and I would have died here today.
18:06Caspian ignores both of them.
18:08He snatches the letters from Alaric and scans them.
18:11It's so quiet that one can hear a pin drop.
18:13Alaric's lips curls into a smug smile.
18:15Treason and attempted murder.
18:19Caspian's brows pull tighter as he reads.
18:22You imbecile!
18:24Do your homework before framing someone.
18:26Everyone knows the empress can't read.
18:30She's illiterate.
18:31Caspian shakes with anger.
18:33He points at the letters and continues.
18:35These letters quote classics and use polished language.
18:38It sounds like a scholar wrote them.
18:40Your mother's writing resembles chicken scratches.
18:43If she could write a letter this elegant, I'd hand her the throne tomorrow.
18:48The hall falls silent.
18:51Alaric's sneer instantly freezes, his face turning sour in an instant.
18:55Daphne stops sobbing as well.
18:58Illiterate?
19:02Caspian kicks Alaric.
19:05I made her empress precisely because she just lays around and didn't have a scheming mind.
19:14And you used that to frame her.
19:16Do you take me for a fool?
19:18Alaric tumbles backward.
19:20Father, please calm down.
19:22Even if the letters are fake, she did kill a royal heir.
19:26Daphne was pregnant with your grandchild.
19:29Do you intend to protect that ignorant woman and cut off the royal bloodline?
19:33With that, Caspian freezes.
19:36Matters of the royal bloodline have always been paramount.
19:39Even for the empress, killing a pregnant consort is intolerable.
19:43Caspian looks at me, hesitant.
19:45Daphne immediately seizes the opportunity and desperately bows on the floor.
19:49Your majesty, everyone is equal before the law.
19:52Just now, her majesty used the law to force my brother to his death.
19:56She lifts her head and glares at me viciously.
19:59Daphne turns to Caspian with tearful eyes.
20:02Now, I beg your majesty to uphold the law as well.
20:06What's the punishment for harming a royal heir?
20:08I look at their self-righteous faces and let out a quiet sigh.
20:12Then, I walk up to Alaric and look down at him.
20:15My dear son, are you sure the child is yours?
20:19The hall fell silent again.
20:21Alaric shoots to his feet.
20:23You vicious woman!
20:24You want to kill her and slander her too?
20:26Daphne panics as well.
20:28She shakes her head while tears streak down her face.
20:30Your highness, I'm innocent.
20:32I've been faithful.
20:33It can't be another man's child.
20:35She throws herself at him.
20:36Your highness, the empress is trying to drive us to death.
20:39Alaric protectively held her.
20:41Then he glared at me viciously.
20:42Father, listen to what she's spewing.
20:44If she goes unpunished, what about my dignity?
20:47Caspian frowns and looks at me.
20:49I don't even blink.
20:50I simply clap my hand.
20:52Since the crown prince doubts me, let the royal physician speak.
20:55Outside the hall, several of them enter with lowered heads, trembling.
20:59Leading them is Dan Lowe.
21:01He carries a thick medical record book.
21:03He slowly enters the hall.
21:05Alaric's expression shifted when he saw him.
21:07Dan kneels and bows respectfully.
21:09Greetings, your majesty, her majesty and your highness.
21:13The other physicians behind him also kneel.
21:15I calmly walk up to him and take the records from him.
21:18Then I say,
21:20Dr. Lowe,
21:22please read out the crown prince's records.
21:26Before his majesty
21:28and everyone here.
21:30I throw the records straight at Alaric.
21:33He glares at me furiously without the slightest fear.
21:36He sneers.
21:37I'd like to see what tricks you're trying to pull now.
21:43Dan trembles, forehead to the floor, not daring to look up.
21:49Your majesty,
21:51the crown prince indulged in prostitution
21:55and has since damaged his health.
21:58On top of that,
22:00he has taken many drugs over the years.
22:04Dan takes a deep breath.
22:05With his eyes shut,
22:07he shouts it out.
22:08His highness has lost the ability
22:10to have children five years ago.
22:12The hall instantly falls silent.
22:15Dan's words echoed through the hall.
22:18Alaric instantly goes pale.
22:20Everyone stares at him in disbelief.
22:22His eyes widen at the records
22:24and he curses Dan.
22:26What nonsense are you saying?
22:28He rushes over and kicks Dan,
22:30pointing at him.
22:30You quack!
22:32How dare you take bribes
22:34and join this vicious woman to frame me?
22:36I'll kill you!
22:38Alaric draws a guard saber
22:40and charges at me in rage.
22:42Guards, seize the crown prince.
22:44I lift my sleeve and laugh softly.
22:46Several guards rush forward
22:47and pin down the mad Alaric.
22:49Caspian picks up the records.
22:51His face turns dark
22:52after flipping through the records.
22:54The records clearly list
22:55every diagnosis and prescription.
22:57There are even signatures
22:58from the other royal physicians.
23:00Nobody can make Alaric father a child.
23:03So, whose child is Daphne carrying?
23:06Everyone's eyes turn toward Daphne.
23:08She is completely stunned.
23:10At that moment,
23:11there's sound of footsteps.
23:13An old maid in coarse clothes is brought in.
23:16Lily works in the kitchen
23:17and once served the crown prince.
23:20Later, Daphne drove her out
23:21and I secretly brought her back.
23:23Lily kneels on the floor.
23:25Greetings, your majesty and her majesty.
23:28I look at her.
23:30Lily, tell us.
23:32Before Daphne entered the palace,
23:34what was she doing?
23:35Lily looks up, eyes full of hatred.
23:38Your majesty,
23:39Daphne is not a respectable lady from Jastera.
23:41She was a courtesan.
23:43She's served many men before.
23:45When she became pregnant,
23:46she attached herself to the crown prince.
23:49She lied her way into the palace.
23:51Daphne screams,
23:52You hag!
23:53That's nonsense!
23:54You're slandering me!
23:56I'm not lying.
23:57I served in the crown prince's palace before.
23:59I saw her secretly sending letters
24:01and meeting a strange man in the royal garden.
24:04Before he left,
24:05she even gave him a bag of silver,
24:07saying she would bring him into the palace later.
24:09Alaric looks up, disappointed.
24:11His eyes turn red as he stares at Daphne.
24:14Daphne!
24:14How dare you deceive me!
24:17No, your highness.
24:18She's framing me.
24:19Lily and the empress are working together.
24:22So is Dr. Lowe.
24:23They're accomplices.
24:25Not only do they want to harm me,
24:27they'll harm you too.
24:29Alaric freezes,
24:30standing there as if his soul has left his body.
24:32I look at Caspian.
24:33We'll know the truth by looking into it.
24:36Your majesty,
24:37I've sent people to check Daphne's past
24:39and the identity of the man she met.
24:41We'll know the truth soon.
24:43Daphne still won't give up.
24:44Clinging to Alaric,
24:45she weeps pitifully.
24:48Your highness,
24:49she is sowing discord.
24:50This vicious woman is trying to harm you.
24:53She just wants you to lose your position.
24:56Alaric remains frozen.
24:58His expression turns thoughtful,
24:59as if he is truly weighing her words.
25:02His eyes are empty,
25:03but his tone is firm.
25:04Yes.
25:06It's all because of the empress
25:08that everything has come to this.
25:10It's all her scheme.
25:12How could Daphne be a courtesan?
25:16You just want to harm her and me.
25:19You're still so naive and laughable.
25:21I speak calmly.
25:22Why would I ever harm the royal heir?
25:24Rather than doubting me,
25:26you should think again
25:26why Daphne got close to you while pregnant.
25:29Alaric is in turmoil.
25:31He starts to doubt Daphne instead.
25:34Daphne's lips are drained of color now.
25:36She trembles violently.
25:37Your highness,
25:38I'm a lady from Justora.
25:39I kick her shoulder,
25:41sending her to the ground.
25:43A courtesan pregnant with a random man's child,
25:46yet dares to dress in royal colors,
25:49insult the empress,
25:50and fake the royal bloodline.
25:52I turn to Alaric on the ground,
25:54speaking gently.
25:55My dear son,
25:56looks like you've been cockled it.
25:59His eyes turn red
26:00as he stares at Daphne.
26:02You vile woman!
26:03How dare you deceive me!
26:05Daphne is terrified.
26:07She crawls backward
26:08while shaking her head.
26:13No!
26:14She's lying to you!
26:15These people must have been bribed.
26:17Your highness,
26:18don't believe her!
26:19At this point,
26:20she is still struggling desperately.
26:22I look at her stubborn face
26:24and let out a cold laugh.
26:26Then,
26:27I clap my hands.
26:31Guards,
26:32bring the dead man in.
26:34Alaric stares at the palace doors.
26:37Heavy footsteps can be heard
26:38from the outside.
26:39Two royal guards
26:40drag a heavily injured man in.
26:43He is thrown onto the floor
26:44with a dull thud.
26:46Everyone is shocked
26:47and starts murmuring.
26:48Derek!
26:50Alaric stares at Derek
26:51with wide eyes.
26:53He says disbelievingly,
26:55You're not dead?
26:56I step forward.
26:58Commander Lowell,
26:59please tell us
27:00whose child is your sister Carrie?
27:02Derek lies on the ground,
27:04coughing violently.
27:05Blood spills with every cough.
27:07He glances at his terrified sister,
27:10then at Alaric.
27:11He knows this is his only chance to survive.
27:15My sister entertained countless clients
27:17until she couldn't keep track.
27:18The child in her belly is indeed a bastard.
27:21We only planned to find a fool to take the blame.
27:24We never expected the dignified crown prince of Elander
27:27to believe it.
27:28Alaric shakes his head in disbelief.
27:31How can this be?
27:33How can this be?
27:35At that moment,
27:36a voice comes from outside.
27:37Your Majesty,
27:39we've captured the key witness.
27:41People come in.
27:42Two guards drag in a young scholar
27:44in soiled robes.
27:45He's Corey Smith,
27:46Daphne's lover.
27:47Seeing him,
27:48she breaks down.
27:49She forgets to defend herself
27:51and runs toward him.
27:52Why are you here?
27:53Did they hurt you?
27:54Seeing her blood-stained clothes
27:55and messy hair,
27:57Corey's eyes redden.
27:58Daphne,
27:59who did this to you?
28:00Daphne looks into his eyes,
28:02then at Alaric's pale,
28:03twisted face.
28:04All her lies finally collapse.
28:05She covers her face
28:07and sobs.
28:07Corey,
28:08the child is yours.
28:09I didn't take the medicine that night.
28:11She cries.
28:12I planned to tell you
28:13after settling down.
28:14I never thought things
28:15would end like this.
28:16I'm sorry.
28:17Corey shakes his head.
28:18No,
28:18you did good.
28:19I'm the useless one.
28:20You suffered so much for me.
28:22Alaric trembles beside them
28:23and collapses,
28:25staring at Daphne in despair.
28:27You fooled me.
28:29I click my tongue.
28:31What a tragic pair of lovers.
28:32Caspian suddenly roars.
28:34Enough.
28:35Shameless adulterers.
28:36Any last words?
28:37Daphne bursts into
28:38laughter.
28:39Furious,
28:40she coughs up blood.
28:41She burst into laughter again.
28:43We planned to taint
28:44the royal bloodline
28:45with this child.
28:46Once born,
28:46a Landor's throne
28:47would be the Lowell's.
28:48Then Corey and I
28:49could live in luxury.
28:51The hall falls silent
28:53as if the air is frozen.
28:54This is no longer
28:55about the air.
28:56It's outright treason.
28:58Alaric lets out
28:59a hysterical roar.
29:00He suddenly breaks free
29:01from the guards
29:02and lunges at Daphne.
29:03He grabs her throat
29:05and slams her to the ground.
29:07How dare you humiliate me?
29:08I'll kill you.
29:10Daphne's eyes roll back
29:11from the choking.
29:12She claws desperately
29:13at his hands.
29:14Someone save me!
29:16Corey and Derek
29:17rush forward
29:17and chaos erupts.
29:19I watch coldly
29:20and step back,
29:21Caspian trembling
29:21with rage,
29:22pointing at them
29:23and his face turns purple.
29:25Pull them apart.
29:26Several guards rush forward
29:28and forcibly separate
29:29Alaric from Daphne.
29:30Caspian strides up to Alaric
29:32and stares at him in silence.
29:34Caspian raises his hand
29:35toward Alaric
29:35and slaps him hard
29:37across the face.
29:38Alaric's head jerks
29:38to the side,
29:39blood spilling from his mouth.
29:41Caspian points at him
29:42furiously and says,
29:43You useless fool.
29:44You didn't know
29:45you were infertile
29:46and couldn't father a child.
29:47His chest heaves with anger.
29:49He scans the hall.
29:50He declares
29:51after clearing his throat.
29:52The crown prince
29:53is stripped of his title
29:54and confined for life.
29:55Alaric collapses
29:56weakly to the floor
29:57as if all strength
29:58has left his body.
29:59He stares at Caspian,
30:01forgetting to beg.
30:02Caspian then looks
30:02toward Daphne,
30:03Derek, and Corey.
30:05His eyes are ice cold.
30:06The Lowells and Corey
30:07corrupted the royal bloodline
30:09and plotted rebellion.
30:10Drag them out
30:11and execute them
30:12and their families.
30:13Daphne suddenly lets out
30:14a bitter laugh.
30:15She turns to me.
30:16Her expression changes,
30:18eyes pleading.
30:18Kill me,
30:19but spare Derek and Corey.
30:20This was all my fault.
30:21She desperately crawls
30:23toward me,
30:23trying to grab my leg.
30:24I kick her away coldly
30:26and said,
30:26Why did you do it
30:27in the first place?
30:28Soon after,
30:29several royal guards
30:30rush forward.
30:31They drag Daphne
30:32and Derek out.
30:33Corey is dragged away
30:34as well.
30:35Their miserable screams
30:36tear through the palace,
30:38slowly fading away.
30:39In the end,
30:40Alaric is dragged away.
30:41I watch this
30:42and let out a soft sigh.
30:44Caspian comes over,
30:45rests a hand on my shoulder
30:46and pulls me
30:47into his arms.
30:48Do you feel wronged?
30:49I pout,
30:50pretending to be upset.
30:52Wronged.
30:53I almost lost my life today.
30:55Then,
30:56I proudly add,
30:57Without me,
30:58the secret wouldn't be exposed.
31:00What happened
31:00if the royal bloodline
31:01was tainted?
31:02I've done such a great service,
31:04shouldn't your majesty
31:05reward me?
31:05Caspian laughs.
31:07You really are clever
31:08and sly as a fox.
31:09I immediately pout,
31:10but your majesty
31:11said I was illiterate.
31:12Seeing me upset,
31:14he grows flustered.
31:15What's wrong?
31:15Are you angry?
31:16I nod.
31:17Of course,
31:18I'm exhausted
31:19and covered in injuries,
31:20too.
31:21Caspian realizes it
31:22and shouts,
31:23Physicians,
31:23if anything happens
31:24to the Empress,
31:25you'll answer to me.
31:27Three months later,
31:28at the execution grounds,
31:29royal guards line
31:30both sides with spears.
31:32The crowd stretches
31:32their necks
31:33while chattering.
31:34I sit on the viewing platform.
31:35Zara Reed,
31:36the former crown princess,
31:37sat beside me
31:38while stuffing my hands
31:39with snacks.
31:40She whispers,
31:41The Lowell's
31:41got what they deserved.
31:42It's so satisfying.
31:44I'm eating the snack
31:45when the execution officer announces.
31:47It's time.
31:48Bring the prisoners.
31:49We can hear
31:50the clatter of chains.
31:51Daphne,
31:52Derek,
31:52and Corey
31:53are escorted in by guards.
31:54Clothes patter,
31:55wrists and ankles rubbed raw,
31:57faces full of despair.
31:58Daphne's hair
31:59isn't a mess.
32:00She suddenly breaks free
32:01from the guards
32:02and screams madly,
32:03No,
32:04it's the Empress.
32:05It's all her fault.
32:06A guard slaps her.
32:07Blood spills from her mouth
32:08as she stumbles to her knees.
32:10Derek frames his neck
32:11and glares to her feet
32:12but gagged.
32:13Ignore the growl.
32:14Corey keeps his head down,
32:15hair covering his face.
32:17Question now.
32:18The officer reads the decree.
32:20Derek and Daphne
32:21and Corey
32:21are accused of corrupting
32:22the royal bloodline
32:23and plotting rebellion.
32:25They're found guilty
32:25and are sentenced to death.
32:27Family members
32:28are infertile.
32:29Four carriages
32:30are driven to the center.
32:31The three prisoners
32:32are tied separately.
32:33At the command,
32:34the drivers crack their whips.
32:36The horses charge
32:36in four directions.
32:38Some scream
32:38and cover their eyes.
32:39Some curse
32:40through gritted teeth.
32:41Others secretly cheer.
32:43I watch expressionlessly,
32:44snack frozen in midair.
32:46Zara pales
32:47but still says,
32:48This is their due,
32:49no need to pity them.
32:51I slowly nod
32:52and eat the snack.
32:53They ashed for it.
32:54Then Zara and I
32:55return to the palace.
32:56Along the way,
32:57she sighs.
32:58After leaving the palace,
32:59my health has improved.
33:00I eat well now.
33:02I only hope to talk
33:03with your majesty.
33:04I laugh
33:04and pat her hand.
33:06Plenty to gossip about.
33:07As the carriage
33:08reaches the street,
33:09a roar rises.
33:10Bitch,
33:10go to hell.
33:11I lift the curtain.
33:13Alaric broke free
33:13of his shackles.
33:14Clutching a broken hairpin,
33:16he charges over
33:17like a madman.
33:18His robes are torn,
33:19dirt covering him.
33:20Murder burns
33:21in his eyes.
33:22The guards try to block him,
33:23but he's mad.
33:24He shoves them aside.
33:27I rise and slap him
33:29across the face.
33:30I shout at him,
33:31Are you crazy?
33:32Zara starts sobbing.
33:34She's always been weak.
33:35Soon,
33:36she's gasping for breath.
33:37I hold her up.
33:38You okay?
33:39Zara waves her hand,
33:40then suddenly looks up.
33:41Be careful.
33:42He's coming.
33:43She shields me.
33:44I look up.
33:45Alaric is laughing wildly.
33:46You two frame me together.
33:48You bitches,
33:49I'll kill you.
33:50I want you buried with me.
33:51Just as he raises the pin,
33:53thunderous hoofbeats sound.
33:55Caspian arrives.
33:56You disgraceful wretch.
33:57Stop.
33:58Alaric turns around
33:59and lunges at Caspian.
34:00Help her.
34:01I want revenge.
34:02The guards pin him down.
34:03They chain him again.
34:05Caspian is furious.
34:06Wretch,
34:07you're a curse.
34:08He immediately says,
34:09The former crown prince
34:11is exiled north,
34:12never to return.
34:13Alaric keeps screaming
34:14like a madman.
34:15The carriage moves on.
34:17The sun is shining.
34:18There's always gossip
34:20in the city.
34:20A wave of nausea
34:22hits me at the palace gates.
34:23Zara rushes over to me.
34:25What's wrong?
34:26Did that scare you?
34:26I wave my hand.
34:28My body feels drained.
34:29I summon a physician.
34:31Dan kneels with a huge smile.
34:32Congrats,
34:33your majesty.
34:34You're pregnant for two months.
34:36I freeze in shock.
34:37When Caspian hears the news,
34:39he rushes to my court.
34:40The once commanding emperor
34:41now acts like a nervous father.
34:43He orders nourishing soups
34:45and has servants
34:46remove every sharp object.
34:48Even his footsteps
34:49become careful.
34:50Zara comes to visit again.
34:52She is glowing now.
34:54In soft robes,
34:55she looks far more radiant
34:56than before.
34:57I let her sit with me
34:58and she immediately
34:59leans close to gossip.
35:01I keep on snacking,
35:03the discomfort easing a bit.
35:05Caspian dotes on me endlessly.
35:07The finest foods
35:08are sent to me daily.
35:09Zara visits every few days,
35:11always bringing fresh new gossip.
35:13We sit in the garden,
35:14snacking and chatting.
35:16My pregnancy goes smoothly.
35:18Zara and I are chatting
35:19casually one day.
35:20A sharp pain hits me
35:21while she was talking.
35:23The snack scatters.
35:25Zara cries out
35:26for the physicians.
35:27My court falls into chaos.
35:28I clutch the blankets,
35:30sweating.
35:30My insides feel torn apart,
35:32tears streaming down.
35:34Caspian's footsteps
35:35grow frantic.
35:35Before long,
35:36he rushes into my room.
35:38He grabs my hand
35:39with reddened eyes.
35:40His palms burn
35:41as he wipes my sweat away.
35:42His voice stays firm.
35:43Hold on,
35:44our child is coming.
35:45I grip his arm hard.
35:47He grits his teeth
35:48and comforts me.
35:49Not long after,
35:50a loud baby's cry
35:51can be heard.
35:52The midwife cries,
35:53It's a boy.
35:54After that,
35:55I collapse onto the bed.
35:57Caspian kisses my forehead,
35:59eyes full of tenderness.
36:00He names our son
36:01the new crown prince.
36:03He comes daily
36:03to care for me.
36:04He even feeds me soup.
36:06His devotion makes me realize
36:08my life is complete
36:09with him by my side.
36:10Soon,
36:11my son turns one.
36:13On his birthday,
36:14the grand court
36:14shines in splendor.
36:16Outside,
36:16officials line
36:17both sides by rank.
36:18It's solemn.
36:19I wear a crimson robe,
36:21the pearls on my crown
36:22swaying gently
36:23with each step.
36:24In my arms,
36:25Alan wears a golden robe.
36:27His round eyes blink
36:28as he looks around.
36:30Caspian sits in a golden robe,
36:31his gaze never leaving me
36:33and Alan.
36:34I walk up the steps
36:35while carrying Alan.
36:36This is the first step
36:38on the path
36:38I chose for him.
36:40The Minister of Rights
36:41opens the royal decree.
36:42As he reads it,
36:44thunderous cries
36:44of allegiance erupt.
36:46Every official
36:47bows in unison.
36:48I lower my gaze
36:49and look across the crowd.
36:50My eyes land on Emily
36:52in the front row.
36:53His hair is grayer now.
36:54His forehead presses
36:56to the floor,
36:57trembling.
36:57I calmly look away,
36:59a faint smile on my lips.
37:00The world only sees me
37:01as a foolish empress.
37:03Little did they know,
37:04a dull blade cuts deepest.
37:06Now,
37:06my son is the crown prince.
37:08No one dares
37:09to look down on me again.
37:11After the ceremony,
37:12I return to my palace.
37:13The maids step forward,
37:15carefully removing
37:16my crown and robes.
37:17I change into
37:18comfortable clothes.
37:19When I want to relax
37:20and have a cup of tea,
37:21my helper,
37:22Cece,
37:23rushes in with sparkling eyes.
37:24Her hair is disheveled.
37:26She pants heavily,
37:27one hand on the door frame,
37:29the other slapping her thigh.
37:30Your majesty,
37:31huge gossip.
37:32Remember the Grand Duke?
37:34He was found with a secret villa
37:35and seven mistresses.
37:36My hand freezes mid-air.
37:38I get excited.
37:40Really?
37:41He dares to do that
37:42with his wife around.
37:43Cece nods repeatedly.
37:44It's true.
37:45His helper leaked the secret.
37:47His wife went mad on the spot.
37:49She grabbed two cleavers,
37:51brought over servants,
37:52and rushed to the villa,
37:53probably fighting now.
37:55I shoved the teacup
37:56into Cece's hands
37:57and rushed to the dressing table.
37:59Quick!
37:59Get me commoners' outfits.
38:00Can't be recognized.
38:02I stride out of the gates
38:04in the morning sun.
38:05A new day.
38:06Fresh gossip.
38:07Here I come.
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