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