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The Selection of Shadows HD 720p ASM
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00:00My sister and I competed to crown princess. The day we entered the palace, mother spiked my soup with sweet
00:04brew.
00:04My cheeks flushed crimson before their majesties. I fumbled my words.
00:07The empress frowned slightly. She's pretty, but her bearing is too flighty, unfit to be crown princess.
00:13My sister Edith was praised for her poise and noble grace. I hurried home in dismay.
00:18I begged father to intervene. You brought this on yourself. Who's to blame?
00:21Edith may be adopted, but she knows her place. The Shaw family will fully support her.
00:27Half a month later, the decree arrived. Edith was appointed a secondary consort.
00:31As for me, for my disgrace before the empress, I was betrothed to the prince of Hanum, who'd buried three
00:35wives.
00:36The night before the wedding, I asked my mother why she did this. She just said,
00:39You've always had it easy. Edith's life's been hard. You shouldn't compete with her.
00:43I was married off into Hanum. The prince was cruel, quick with his whip.
00:46Within three years, I was thrown into a mass grave, just like the three wives before me.
00:50As I took my last breath, I heard a maid whisper,
00:52The crown prince is emperor now. Madam Edith's pregnant again and made noble consort. The shahs are heaped with glory.
00:59I opened my eyes. I was back on selection day. Mother held a bowl of sweet soup, beaming at me.
01:04Eleanor, drink this. Put some color in your cheeks before you meet their majesties.
01:08I stared at her. Willow leaf brows, slender eyes, a small mole on her right cheek.
01:13I got her eyes and brows, but not the mole. Edith had it.
01:16As a child, I once naively asked,
01:18Why does Edith look more like you, mother? She's adopted, isn't she? Her face darkened.
01:22Dilly child. Upbringing shapes a child. Edith isn't mined by blood, but she might as well be.
01:27She slapped me.
01:28Never mention the adoption again. It upsets Edith.
01:32Pushed back the memories. I took the soup. Then turned to Edith beside me.
01:36Edith, before we enter the palace, let me offer you this soup in a tosat.
01:40Whichever one of us was chosen, may we always support each other and honor our family.
01:44She was startled. Panic flashed in her eyes. She knew what was in that soup.
01:50You're too kind. I've already eaten. If I ate any more, I would feel bloated. I might seem improper before
01:55the empress.
01:56Edith smiled knowingly, then raised my voice.
01:59What's wrong? You're always telling me to eat more. Said men prefer women with some meat. Why won't you take
02:03one sip?
02:03The room went silent. Father frowned, about to speak, when mother suddenly gasped.
02:08Her hand brushed the table's edge. The bowl slipped and shattered.
02:11Shards flew everywhere. Soup spilled across the floor.
02:14Eleanor. Mother scolded, feigning annoyance.
02:16You're about to enter the palace. And still so clumsy.
02:20What if you'd spilled that on your sister's dress and delayed the procession?
02:23She fussed anxiously over Edith's clothes.
02:26Edith wore a moon-white gown with cloud patterns.
02:28It looked simple, but the fabric shimmered as she moved.
02:31That was from weaving in western silk.
02:33She wore pearl and kingfisher feathers.
02:35They made her skin look like snow. Elegant and ethereal.
02:38Those were mother's most valuable dowry pieces, remade by a court jeweler.
02:42But I was, in garish yellow and green, stuck with gold and ruby pins.
02:46Mother picked them herself, saying my fair skin could handle bright colors.
02:50She'd caked my face with rouge.
02:52I looked garish, like an opera actress.
02:54Last time, I entered the palace looking just like this.
02:57Among all the elegantly dressed girls, I was a walking joke.
03:00I heard Eleanor's the capital's beauty.
03:02She's not all that.
03:03Shh. She is beautiful, actually.
03:04But her mother dresses her in hideous clothes, calls it retro chic.
03:08I used to think they were jealous because my mother did everything for me.
03:11So, everyone knew.
03:13She was sabotaging me.
03:14The carriage was ready at the gate.
03:15Edith and I said goodbye to our parents.
03:17Father, Minister Shaw, glanced at my gaudy outfit.
03:21He frowned slightly, but only said,
03:22The palace has strict rules.
03:24Mind your words and actions.
03:27He handed me a food container.
03:28Your mother made this soup for you early.
03:30You didn't even touch it.
03:32So willful.
03:33Take it with you.
03:33Finish it all.
03:34To Edith, he spoke gently.
03:36Edith, be careful.
03:38Everything's arranged.
03:39Edith was the daughter of father's old friend.
03:41Her parents died young.
03:42She came to us when she was six.
03:44Her name was entered into the family tree.
03:46She became the eldest Shaw daughter.
03:47Father pitied her for being orphaned.
03:49Mother treated her as her own.
03:50And me, their real daughter, I was the extra one.
03:53I used to think mother neglected me only to please father.
03:55But in my past life, as I lay dying on a broken bed in a corner of the prince's manor,
04:00Tracy went back to the Shaw house to visit.
04:01And she accidentally overheard them talking.
04:03And she accidentally overheard them talking.
04:05My mother was weeping.
04:07Don't worry, my lord.
04:08Edith is noble consort now and pregnant.
04:10Her future's bright.
04:11My late sister would be pleased.
04:14But about Eleanor...
04:15She laughed coldly.
04:16Her?
04:17The prince has a temper.
04:18But she's his legitimate wife.
04:20If she behaves, she might still have a good life.
04:23And if not, that's her fate.
04:26Edith was indeed father's old friend's daughter.
04:29That old friend was mother's sister.
04:30Father was in love with her first.
04:32They were engaged.
04:33But at a banquet, she was framed.
04:35She spent a night with a groom.
04:36Her reputation was ruined.
04:37To save the family name, grandfather made mother marry father instead.
04:41That poor aunt was sent to the countryside.
04:43She gave birth to Edith.
04:45A few years later, she died of despair.
04:47Father, still pining for his lost love, brought Edith to our home.
04:50Mother's love for Edith was never an act.
04:52She was her niece.
04:53Her late sister's only child.
04:55In my past life, I heard those words.
04:58My heart turned to ice.
04:59As my last breath rattled, I stared at the ragged canopy above me.
05:02I swore that if I had another life, I'd make them pay in blood.
05:05Now, I'm back.
05:06I don't want this so-called family.
05:08I'll make you wish you were dead.
05:11Carriage rattled toward the palace.
05:13Inside with me was a matron from the palace.
05:15She was a trusted attendant to the Empress.
05:18I took a deep breath, took off those heavy gold and ruby pins,
05:21pulled out my handkerchief, dipped it in my water pouch,
05:24and wiped the thick rouge from my face.
05:26Matron Smith's eyes flickered with surprise.
05:28I pushed the jewelry toward her.
05:30Gaudy as they are, they're solid gold and real gems.
05:33It's worth a lot.
05:34Thank you for the trouble.
05:35These trinkets are a burden to me now.
05:37If you don't mind, please take them.
05:40Just a small token.
05:41Matron Smith had seen everything at the Shaw residence.
05:44She said nothing.
05:45Just watched.
05:45Now, she took the jewelry, weighed it in her hand,
05:48and tucked it into her sleeve.
05:49You're too kind, Miss Shaw.
05:50She paused.
05:51As if mentioning it casually.
05:53Forgive my boldness, but the orchid handkerchief in your sleeve has quite distinctive stitching.
05:58Is it from the Grant School in Riverton?
06:00My heart jolted.
06:01This handkerchief was my grandmother's.
06:03She came from a Riverton embroidery family.
06:05Her embroidery was famed throughout the capital.
06:07I was little when she got sick.
06:09She only had time to leave me a few handkerchiefs and some garments.
06:12She only had time to leave me a few handkerchiefs and some garments.
06:15She said,
06:15Eleanor, I have little to leave you.
06:18Keep these embroideries.
06:20If you're ever in trouble, sell them.
06:22They'll help.
06:24Later, when she passed,
06:25Mother took most of her things.
06:27Said she'd keep them safe for me.
06:29Only these handkerchiefs survived because I kept them on me.
06:32In my past life, suffering in the Prince's manor,
06:34I thought of selling them for a doctor.
06:36But the Prince was cruel.
06:38He took even this last comfort and threw it in the fire.
06:41Matron Smith's sudden mention made me wonder.
06:43But I kept calm.
06:44You've a sharp eye, Matron.
06:46It's the Grant Embroidery.
06:47Matron Smith nodded and said no more,
06:49closing her eyes to rest.
06:51But I filed it away.
06:52The Empress favors Grant Embroidery.
06:53In my past life, after Edith was chosen,
06:56she sought out a Grant Embroiderer to make the Empress a phoenix screen.
06:59It won great praise.
07:00The carriage stopped at the palace gate.
07:02We changed to sedan chairs.
07:03For Elite Palace.
07:04All the way.
07:05Edith sat perfectly poised, graceful, and composed.
07:07I sat quietly, my mind racing.
07:09The selection isn't a one-shot deal.
07:11First round, family and looks.
07:13Second, talent and virtue.
07:14Final, chosen by the Empress and Crown Prince.
07:16Last time, I was out in the first round for my impropriety.
07:18Edith made it all the way and was betrothed to the Crown Prince.
07:21This time, step by step, I'll walk her path and make it my own.
07:25This time, step by step, I'll walk her path and make it my own.
07:28The first round was at Elite Palace's main hall.
07:31Over 30 noble girls stood in three rows as the Empress and consorts made their choices.
07:35Edith stood ahead of me, poised like a lotus.
07:37When her turn came, she knelt gracefully, her voice clear.
07:40Greetings, your majesty and your highnesses.
07:45The Empress nodded slightly.
07:47Raise your head.
07:48Edith looked up slowly, respectful, but not fawning.
07:51Hmm, pleasing features, proper bearing.
07:53The Empress turned to Consort Doris, smiling.
07:56Minister Shaw's daughter?
07:57Indeed, Consort Doris smiled.
07:59I hear she excels at chess music painting.
08:02Quite the talented girl.
08:04Yes, the Empress nodded.
08:05Keep her name.
08:06Edith thanked them and withdrew.
08:07As she passed me, a faint smile tugged at her lips.
08:10My turn came.
08:11I stepped forward steadily.
08:12Knelt as required.
08:14Greetings, your majesty and your highnesses.
08:16Raise your head.
08:17Looked up, my gaze calm.
08:19The Empress studied me a moment, her brow relaxing.
08:21Your makeup is too plain, but your natural beauty shines through.
08:25You remind me of someone from my youth.
08:28You remind me of someone from my youth.
08:31She then asked.
08:32You're also a Shaw girl.
08:34Which are you?
08:34The second.
08:35My elder sister is Edith.
08:37I'm dripping with jewels.
08:39The other, plain as day.
08:41Do your parents play favorites and dress only one daughter?
08:44Even fingers aren't the same length.
08:46A parent's love is no different.
08:48My sister is so gifted.
08:49No wonder they dote on her.
08:50Even I would gladly give her the best of everything.
08:53Praising her, but really, I was subtly accusing her of being spoiled and unkind to her sister.
08:57Keep her name.
08:58Breathed a sigh of relief.
09:00I passed the first round.
09:01Those who pass must stay at Elite Palace for a month, learn court rules, and undergo further selection.
09:05Edith and I got different rooms, but shared the same courtyard.
09:08After settling in, Edith came to find me.
09:11Why did you say those things?
09:14Her tone was gentle, but her eyes held reproof.
09:17We both made it in.
09:19We should support each other.
09:20Talking like that might make people think I'm some kind of tyrant.
09:24You misunderstand, Edith.
09:26I only spoke the truth.
09:27You are gifted.
09:29I can't compare to you.
09:30She studied me for a moment, then suddenly smiled.
09:33You've really grown up.
09:35Well, from now on in the palace, we must stand together.
09:40You're right, Edith.
09:41After she left, I closed the door and smiled coldly.
09:44That evening, Matron Smith came by with a rulebook.
09:46I took the chance to offer her a pouch.
09:48For your trouble, Matron, just a small token.
09:50She waited in her hand and felt the gold seeds inside.
09:52You're too kind, Miss Shaw.
09:53Forgive my boldness, but the final round is coming.
09:56Your talent showcase will be crucial.
09:59The Empress favors grant embroidery and music.
10:03The Crown Prince prefers chess and writing.
10:06Thanks for the guidance.
10:07And her voice dropped lower.
10:08Your sister has been visiting Consort Doris quite often.
10:13You must be careful, Miss Shaw.
10:16You must be careful, Miss Shaw.
10:18Alarm bells went off in my head.
10:20Consort Doris is Prince Julian's mother.
10:21He and the Crown Prince don't get along.
10:23Everyone knows it.
10:24Edith has already aligned herself with her.
10:26After Matron Smith left, I thought back to my past life.
10:28Of course.
10:29Soon after, Edith was chosen.
10:31Consort Doris' family was promoted.
10:33Prince Julian's power grew.
10:34The Prince of Hanum, who beat me to death, was one of his men.
10:37So, from the very beginning, the Shaws played both sides.
10:40They wanted the Crown Prince, but didn't want to offend Prince Julian either.
10:43Quite a scheme.
10:44Ten days before the final round, Elite Palace held a talent preview.
10:47The girls showed their skills, competing in music, chess, and dance.
10:50It was dazzling.
10:51Edith performed a masterpiece.
10:52Her playing exquisite and ethereal.
10:54She won everyone's praise.
10:55When my turn came, I chose embroidery.
10:57On a plain white silk handkerchief, using the grant technique, I embroidered a cluster of
11:01orchids.
11:01The stitches were fine.
11:02The colors subtle.
11:03The best part was the dew drops.
11:04I used special silk threads.
11:05When light hit them, they glistened like real water.
11:08When light hit them, they glistened like real water.
11:10The matron in charge saw it and nodded repeatedly.
11:12This grand embroidery takes at least ten years to master, for someone so young to reach such
11:20a level.
11:21Plus then, the Empress came to observe.
11:23She walked over to me, took the handkerchief, and studied it closely.
11:26Her eyes showed approval.
11:27Exquisite work.
11:28This dewdrop stitch was thought to be lost.
11:32Darby, Your Majesty.
11:33My grandmother taught me.
11:35I'm clumsy and barely learned it.
11:37Your grandmother was...
11:38Sandra Grant of Riverton.
11:40The Empress's eyes flickered with surprise.
11:42Sandra's own granddaughter.
11:44When I was young, she taught me embroidery herself.
11:47But that's ancient history now.
11:49But that's ancient history now.
11:52She set the handkerchief down and said warmly,
11:53Prepare well.
11:54I look forward to your performance.
11:57Thank you, Your Majesty.
11:58After the Empress left,
11:59Edith's face visibly darkened.
12:01That evening, she came to find me.
12:03When did you learn grant embroidery?
12:05I had no idea.
12:06Grandmother taught me before she passed.
12:08In my spare time over the years,
12:10I've just played with it, said it offhandedly.
12:12Back then, Edith was still living at the country estate.
12:15Quite the hidden talent.
12:17She smiled, without warmth.
12:20Still, in Elite Palace,
12:22showing off too much might not be wise.
12:24You should remember.
12:26The tallest tree catches the most wind.
12:29You're right, Edith, replied meekly.
12:31But inwardly, I smiled coldly.
12:33Already rattled?
12:34The best is yet to come.
12:35Already rattled?
12:36The best is yet to come.
12:38Three days before the final round,
12:39something happened at Elite Palace.
12:41Consort Doris gifted each girl a palace flower as encouragement.
12:45Mine was a begonia silk flower,
12:46delicate and pretty.
12:47But Edith's peony silk flower went missing.
12:50And at the bottom of my jewelry box,
12:52an identical flower was found.
12:54Her eyes instantly welled up.
12:56She told the investigating matron,
12:58Don't know how it got there.
13:00If you wanted it, Eleanor,
13:01you only had to ask.
13:03Why do this?
13:04Suddenly, all eyes were on me.
13:07Stealing a gift from the palace is a serious offense.
13:10At best, you're expelled.
13:11At worst, your family pays too.
13:12In my past life,
13:13Edith pulled similar tricks,
13:15accusing me of stealing her jade pendant.
13:16I was sentenced to kneel for three days.
13:18Now she's using the same play.
13:19Quite the pro.
13:20Now she's using the same trick.
13:21Quite the pro.
13:22I stared calmly at the silk flower,
13:24then said,
13:25Edith, may I take a closer look?
13:26She hesitated, then handed it over.
13:28I took it, studied it carefully,
13:30and smiled.
13:30Edith, this flower isn't the one
13:32Consort Doris gave you.
13:34What are you talking about?
13:36She snapped.
13:37They're identical.
13:39Similar, maybe.
13:40I held it up to the light.
13:42The flowers Consort Doris gave us
13:44have gold threads along the petals.
13:46They glint in sunlight.
13:48This one doesn't.
13:49Edith had indeed hidden
13:51the real flower in my things.
13:52But after being framed by her so many times,
13:55I knew all her tricks.
13:56At home, with our parents so partial,
13:57no matter how obvious the lie,
13:59they'd take her side.
14:00But this is the palace.
14:01No one here will play along.
14:02This is the palace.
14:03No one here will play along.
14:05The others leaned in to look.
14:06Sure enough,
14:06Edith's face went pale.
14:08And the flowers Consort Doris gave
14:10all have a tiny Doris
14:12stitched in the center.
14:13This one doesn't.
14:14How did you know it was yours
14:15without even looking?
14:17Do you think only you
14:18deserve a peony flower?
14:20The head matron took the flower,
14:21examined it,
14:22and said firmly,
14:23It's not there.
14:24How can this be?
14:26Someone must have set this up
14:28to drive us apart.
14:30Please see the truth.
14:32The matron's eyes turned cold.
14:34I hear you've always been
14:35the favored one at home,
14:36taking all your sister's clothes
14:38and jewelry.
14:39And now in the palace,
14:41you pull the same stunt.
14:42You lose something,
14:43won't take responsibility,
14:45and try to blame someone else.
14:47How virtuous.
14:49I'll report exactly
14:50what I saw to Her Majesty.
14:52That was harsh.
14:53Edith's face went completely white.
14:55That night,
14:56she burst into my room,
14:57all pretense of gentleness gone.
14:58Eleanor Shaw,
14:59you did this on purpose.
15:00She burst into my room,
15:02all pretense of gentleness gone.
15:04Eleanor Shaw,
15:05you did this on purpose.
15:06Kept embroidering,
15:07not even looking up.
15:08What are you talking about?
15:09I don't follow.
15:11You knew I'd pull something like this,
15:13so you planted that fig flower beforehand.
15:16Her teeth were clenched.
15:18How long have you been plotting against me?
15:20Set down my needle,
15:22looked up at her.
15:22That's an odd thing to say,
15:24Edith.
15:24I didn't take anything from you.
15:25My flower's right where it belongs.
15:27How is that plotting?
15:28He glared at me,
15:29then suddenly smiled.
15:30Fine, fine.
15:31I underestimated you.
15:33But Eleanor,
15:34you think this means you'll win?
15:36Don't forget whose side
15:37our parents are on.
15:40Every resource the Shaw's have
15:42will be mine.
15:43You're a cast-off.
15:45What do you have to fight me with?
15:47You're a cast-off.
15:48What do you have to fight me with?
15:50Don't compete,
15:51I said evenly.
15:52I'm just taking back what's mine.
15:54What's yours?
15:55She scoffed.
15:57What in this word is yours?
15:59A father's love?
16:00A mother's care?
16:02The family's resources?
16:04Eleanor Shaw,
16:05wake up.
16:06It stung,
16:07but I kept my face calm.
16:09It's late.
16:10Good night.
16:10The final round arrived
16:12on a clear, cloudless day.
16:13Of the thirty noble girls,
16:14only ten remained.
16:15The Empress sat at the center,
16:16the Crown Prince beside her.
16:17It was my first time seeing him,
16:19Cyrus Vance.
16:19He wore a golden robe.
16:20His features were refined,
16:21his manner gentle,
16:22but his eyes held distance,
16:23as if he couldn't care less.
16:25The performances began.
16:26Edith played
16:27A Man's Pursuit.
16:28Her music was tender,
16:29full of longing.
16:29Edith played
16:30A Man's Pursuit.
16:31Her music was tender,
16:32full of longing.
16:33The Crown Prince
16:33nodded slightly,
16:34but seemed unmoved.
16:35My turn came.
16:36I presented an embroidered piece,
16:38not a handkerchief,
16:39but a small folding screen.
16:40It depicted a scene
16:41from a famous painting.
16:42Scholars feasting,
16:43robes flowing,
16:44every detail.
16:45Even the food and wine
16:46was vivid.
16:46The special part
16:47was the double-sided embroidery.
16:49One side showed
16:49the lively banquet,
16:50the other,
16:51a lone fisherman in the cold.
16:52Celebration versus solitude.
16:54The Empress was delighted.
16:55Even your grandmother
16:56never quite mastered
16:57this technique.
16:59And you're so young,
17:01yet has achieved so much.
17:03As Crown Prince
17:03looked over.
17:05Studied it a moment,
17:06then spoke two sides,
17:07two moods,
17:08why this subject,
17:09Miss Shaw.
17:10I lowered my eyes.
17:12Your Highness,
17:13I believe life
17:14is like embroidery.
17:15One side you show the world,
17:16one side you keep for yourself.
17:18Feasts end.
17:19Solitude remains.
17:20To see stillness in the revelry,
17:21that is clarity.
17:22Life is like embroidery.
17:23One side you show the world,
17:24one side you keep for yourself.
17:25Feasts end.
17:26Solitude remains.
17:27To see stillness in the revelry,
17:29that is clarity.
17:30A flicker of surprise
17:31crossed his face.
17:31He held my gaze a moment.
17:33Clarity.
17:33He murmured.
17:34Then turned to the Empress.
17:36Mother,
17:36I find her promising.
17:38The Empress smiled and nodded.
17:39When the final results came,
17:40both Edith and I made the list,
17:42along with three others.
17:43The Duke of Ashfold's daughter,
17:44the Minister of Rights' daughter,
17:46and a Prince's daughter.
17:47Back at Elite Palace,
17:48Edith's face was thunderous.
17:50The night before the final selection,
17:52a fire broke out near my room.
17:54Thick smoke jolted me awake.
17:55I rushed out in a panic.
17:57In the chaos,
17:58someone shoved me from behind.
17:59I stumbled forward,
18:00about to fall into the flames,
18:01when an arm yanked me back.
18:03About to fall into the flames,
18:04when an arm yanked me back.
18:06I looked up into cold,
18:07distant eyes.
18:08It was the Crown Prince.
18:09He was in casual clothes,
18:10as if just passing by.
18:11Your Highness.
18:12I gasped, shaken.
18:13Watch out.
18:13He released me,
18:14his tone flat.
18:16A fire in the palace
18:17is no small matter.
18:18Wait somewhere safe.
18:19Thank you, Your Highness.
18:20He nodded,
18:21then directed others
18:22fighting the fire.
18:23I stepped aside,
18:24my heart cold.
18:25That shove
18:26was meant to kill me.
18:27Who else but Edith?
18:29The fire was quickly put out.
18:30An investigation
18:31found a knocked-over lamp
18:32caused it.
18:33But my lamp
18:33hadn't been lit that night.
18:35The Empress was furious
18:36and ordered a full inquiry.
18:38In the end,
18:38a young eunuch
18:39took the blame,
18:39claiming he'd knocked it over
18:40by accident.
18:41But I knew the truth.
18:42Edith, humiliated twice now,
18:44must hate me.
18:44Edith, humiliated twice now,
18:46must hate me.
18:47The final was pushed back
18:48three days.
18:49I was moved to another
18:50courtyard temporarily.
18:51That night,
18:52Matron Smith came to see me.
18:53Miss Shaw,
18:54I found something.
18:55She lowered her voice.
18:56The eunuch who took the blame
18:58had a dying mother.
18:59Yesterday,
19:00he got a large sum
19:01for her treatment
19:01from a manager
19:03with the surname Shaw.
19:04Shaw?
19:05That's my parents
19:06cleaning up Edith's mess.
19:07I understood.
19:08Three days later,
19:09the final was held
19:10at Serene Palace.
19:11The Empress and Crown Prince
19:12sat at the head,
19:13the five of us in a row.
19:14The Empress asked questions
19:15about virtue,
19:15conduct,
19:16and household management.
19:17Edith answered smoothly,
19:18citing classics.
19:19Quite the scholar.
19:20My turn came.
19:21The Empress asked,
19:22If chosen,
19:22how would you support
19:23the Crown Prince?
19:24I paused,
19:25then answered.
19:26In my view,
19:27supporting the Crown Prince
19:28means knowing when not to.
19:29At this,
19:30the room went silent.
19:31In my view,
19:32supporting the Crown Prince
19:32means knowing when not to.
19:34At this,
19:35the room went silent.
19:36Even the Crown Prince
19:36looked up,
19:37stunned.
19:38Oh, explain.
19:39The Empress seemed intrigued.
19:41The Crown Prince
19:41is the nation's future.
19:43He has mentors
19:43and advisors for that.
19:45A wife who meddles
19:46only complicates things,
19:47I believe.
19:48The Crown Princess's duty
19:50is to run the household,
19:52raise heirs,
19:53and give him peace at home,
19:54so he has nothing
19:55to worry about.
19:56State affairs are not
19:57for palace women to touch.
19:59Approval flickered
20:00in the Empress's eyes.
20:01Clear-headed,
20:02the Crown Prince
20:02nodded slightly.
20:04Finally,
20:04they withdrew to deliberate.
20:05We waited outside.
20:07Quite the novel answer,
20:09Elinor.
20:10But does His Highness
20:12want a wife
20:13who won't support him?
20:14Whether he does or not
20:16is for him to decide,
20:17said calmly.
20:18Why concern yourself?
20:19She snorted
20:20and turned away,
20:21said calmly.
20:22Why concern yourself?
20:23She snorted
20:24and turned away.
20:25Half an hour later,
20:26the results came.
20:27The eunuch's voice
20:28echoed through serene palace.
20:30Matilda Hayes,
20:31daughter of the Duke
20:31of Ashfold.
20:32Dignified and virtuous,
20:34may she be Crown Princess.
20:35Elinor Shaw,
20:36daughter of the Minister
20:37of Rights.
20:38Gentle and wise,
20:39shall be Secondary Consort.
20:41Edith Shaw
20:41shall be Lady.
20:42Lady is the lowest rank,
20:44just above concubine.
20:45Edith's face
20:46went deathly pale.
20:47She swayed,
20:48barely able to stand.
20:49As for me,
20:50I didn't feel much.
20:51Secondary Consort?
20:52It's enough.
20:53This time,
20:53I seek no love,
20:54no high rank,
20:55just a solid base
20:56to settle every debt
20:58from my past life.
20:59I heard this outcome
21:00was pushed by Consort Doris.
21:01She said with Edith's talent
21:02and reputation,
21:03sending her out
21:04would shame her,
21:05better to keep her,
21:05and save face
21:06for the Shaw's.
21:07It was pushed
21:08by Consort Doris.
21:09She said with Edith's talent
21:10and reputation,
21:10sending her out
21:11would shame her,
21:12better to keep her,
21:12and save face
21:13for the Shaw's.
21:14What a joke.
21:15My wonderful parents
21:16must be celebrating
21:17at home right now.
21:18They think now that Edith's
21:20in the Crown Palace,
21:21with her talent
21:21and the family's backing,
21:23she'll rise again.
21:24Little do they know,
21:25in this place,
21:26one misstep means doom.
21:27The wedding was
21:28three months later.
21:29A Crown Princess's marriage
21:30requires a full ceremony,
21:31but for secondary consorts
21:32and ladies,
21:33the rights were much simpler.
21:34I was assigned to Cedar Court,
21:35a small courtyard,
21:36quiet and elegant.
21:37An old plum tree stood there
21:38in full winter bloom,
21:39its buds about to open.
21:40On my first day here,
21:41I went to visit
21:42the Crown Princess Matilda.
21:43She was the Duke of Ashfold's
21:44only daughter
21:45from a military family,
21:46tall with a natural boldness,
21:48unlike any noble girl
21:48I'd met.
21:49Nelt as required.
21:50Greetings,
21:51Your Highness.
21:51She was the Duke of Ashfold's
21:53daughter from a military family,
21:54tall with a natural boldness,
21:56unlike any noble girl
21:57I'd met.
21:57I knelt as required.
21:58Greetings,
21:59Your Highness.
22:00Eyes.
22:00Her voice was clear
22:01and warm.
22:02I've heard your
22:02grand embroidery
22:03is exquisite.
22:04Now I see you're
22:05as lovely as your work.
22:07You flatter me.
22:08No need for formality.
22:09She helped me up herself.
22:10The Crown Palace is small.
22:11We're more like sisters here.
22:13I'm two years older.
22:15Call me Matilda if you like.
22:16It warmed me,
22:17but I kept my place.
22:19Propriety matters,
22:20Your Highness.
22:20As you wish.
22:22Come visit often.
22:23I get lonely here.
22:24She noticed my thin clothes
22:26and frowned.
22:27Why so little?
22:28Your hands are ice cold.
22:30Are the servants neglecting you?
22:31I've always run cold.
22:32I'm used to it.
22:33Your hands are ice cold.
22:35Are the servants neglecting you?
22:36I've always run cold.
22:37I'm used to it.
22:38She turned and ordered her maid.
22:39Fetch my silver fox cape
22:42for Madame Eleanor
22:43and have the kitchen
22:44send her daily tonic.
22:47Your Highness,
22:47this is too much.
22:49Just take it.
22:50She wouldn't take no
22:50for an answer,
22:51draping the cape
22:52over my shoulder.
22:53You only get one body.
22:54Take care of it.
22:55I ruined my knees
22:56as a child on the frontier.
22:57Now they ache
22:58every time it rains.
23:00Wish I'd known better.
23:00Her concern was genuine,
23:02without pretense.
23:03Next day,
23:03at the Empress's morning audience,
23:05she saw me in the cape
23:06and smiled warmly.
23:08But Tudas always been kind-hearted.
23:10I'm glad you two get along.
23:12Presented the headband I'd prepared.
23:14Made of fine black velvet,
23:16lined with soft cotton,
23:17edges embroidered with clouds
23:18in Grant's style.
23:19A small jade was set in the center.
23:21I heard your majesty
23:21suffers winter headaches,
23:22so I made this headband
23:24with calming herbs inside.
23:25The jade soothes the mind.
23:26I hope it brings some relief.
23:27A small jade was set in the center.
23:28I heard your majesty
23:29suffers winter headaches,
23:30so I made this headband
23:31with calming herbs inside.
23:32The jade soothes the mind.
23:33I hope it brings some relief.
23:35The Empress took it,
23:35feeling its warmth.
23:36She examined the embroidery
23:37and praised
23:38Such clever work.
23:40How thoughtful of you.
23:41Only wish to show my devotion.
23:43Sweet child.
23:44She had me sit beside her,
23:45asking if I'd settled in well.
23:46Then shared recipes
23:47to warm my constitution.
23:49A woman's vitality
23:50starts with good blood.
23:51You're young.
23:52Take care of yourself.
23:54Remembered every word.
23:55My heart aching, yet warm.
23:57My own mother
23:57never cared like this.
23:58The Empress and Crown Princess
23:59felt like destiny's gift.
24:01The mother figures
24:01I never had.
24:02Life at the Crown Palace
24:03flowed quietly.
24:04Each day I paid respects
24:04to the Crown Princess,
24:05sometimes summoned for tea
24:06with the Empress.
24:07Mostly I stayed in Cedar Court,
24:09focusing on my embroidery.
24:10I made the Empress
24:11a muff and knee warmers,
24:12and for the Crown Princess,
24:13riding gloves and wrist guards.
24:15Even married,
24:15she still rode every month
24:16at the Capitol's stables.
24:19She still rode every month
24:20at the Capitol's stables.
24:22When she received the gloves,
24:23her eyes lit up.
24:25Eleanor,
24:25how did you know
24:26I needed these?
24:27The palace embroiderers
24:28always make them too bulky.
24:30They never fit right.
24:31She tried them on.
24:32Perfect fit.
24:32Fingers moved freely,
24:34and the edges
24:34had her favorite pattern.
24:36Perfect.
24:37She grabbed my hand happily.
24:38Eleanor,
24:39you really get me.
24:40A few days later,
24:41she came to Cedar Court.
24:42A maid behind her
24:43carried a set of clothes.
24:44Try this on.
24:45She unfolded it.
24:46It was a moon-white men's robe.
24:47Fine fabric.
24:48Simple cut.
24:49I was confused.
24:50You're always cooped up inside,
24:52getting paler by the day.
24:53She smiled.
24:54Sometimes leave the palace
24:56in men's clothes.
24:57Freer that way.
24:58I had one made for you too.
24:59One day,
25:00we'll go riding together
25:01as brothers.
25:02I tried to refuse,
25:03but she talked me into it.
25:04She circled me twice,
25:06clapped and laughed.
25:06What a handsome young gentleman.
25:08Too delicate though.
25:10That's fine.
25:11You look like a scholar
25:12from the South.
25:12She pinched my waist,
25:14teasing.
25:14This waist is so tiny.
25:16Eleanor,
25:17I'm teaching you to box.
25:18Build some strength.
25:20Eleanor,
25:20I'm teaching you to box.
25:21Build some strength.
25:22And she actually started right there,
25:24showing me Tai Chi moves.
25:25I'd never trained before.
25:26Clumsy and uncoordinated,
25:28I could barely keep my balance.
25:29During one turn,
25:30I stumbled and started falling back.
25:31Watch out!
25:32She lunged forward,
25:33caught me around the waist,
25:34and pulled me back.
25:36Still shaken,
25:37I leaned against her,
25:38catching a whiff of fresh soap
25:40mixed with warm sunlight.
25:41She steadied me,
25:42her hand lingering a moment,
25:44teasing.
25:45So tiny,
25:46but I caught you.
25:47Didn't let my pretty boy fall.
25:49My cheeks warmed.
25:50I loved being with her.
25:51She was bright and free,
25:53like winter sun melting the chill
25:54I'd carried for two lifetimes.
25:56I gave back as best I could.
25:58Knowing her knees troubled her,
25:59I took the softest cotton and fur
26:01and made her a pair of knee warmers,
26:02infused with herbs to ease the pain.
26:04When she got them,
26:05her eyes glistened.
26:06She hugged me.
26:07Nobody's cared about this old injury
26:09since my mother died.
26:10Thank you, Eleanor.
26:12Nobody's cared about this old injury
26:13since my mother died.
26:14Thank you, Eleanor.
26:15As for the crown prince,
26:16I rarely saw him.
26:17He was busy with state affairs.
26:19When he came here,
26:19it was usually to dine
26:20with the crown princess.
26:21To me,
26:22he was polite,
26:23but distant.
26:23Like his words at Serene Palace
26:25were just casual.
26:26Fine by me.
26:26I had no feelings for him.
26:28If anything,
26:28my past life had killed
26:29any hope of love.
26:30Life was good now.
26:32I had the empress
26:32and crown princess who cared,
26:33and my quiet,
26:35peaceful cedar court.
26:36But I hadn't forgotten
26:36the snake in the crown palace.
26:38Edith had kept a low profile
26:39since becoming lady.
26:40She lived in the remote
26:41verdant pavilion.
26:42With such low rank,
26:44she couldn't even visit
26:44the crown princess
26:45without summons.
26:46But I knew she'd never stay still.
26:48And sure enough,
26:48my informants in verdant pavilion
26:50reported back.
26:51Using money smuggled in
26:52by the family,
26:53she'd bought off
26:53a young eunuch
26:54from the gardening crew
26:55and a maid
26:55in the laundry hall.
26:56Consort Doris
26:57had also secretly
26:58sent gifts twice.
26:59She was gathering strength,
27:00biding her time,
27:01and I was waiting
27:02for her to strike.
27:03I had my maid
27:03send my men's clothes
27:04mixed in with my robes
27:06to the laundry hall.
27:07Make sure Edith's maid
27:07sees them.
27:08Then act flustered,
27:10grab the clothes and run,
27:11but drop this pouch.
27:12Edith wanted her moment.
27:14I'd hand it to her.
27:16It was early spring
27:16during the palace banquet.
27:18Nobles, officials,
27:18and their families
27:19filled Lyric Pavilion.
27:20I sat with the crown princess.
27:22Edith, as a mere lady,
27:23was seated far back,
27:24nearly invisible.
27:25Halfway through,
27:26music played,
27:27dancers performed.
27:28The emperor, unwell,
27:29had already left.
27:30The empress stayed a while,
27:31then rose to go.
27:32Suddenly, Edith stood.
27:33She walked to the center
27:34and knelt.
27:36Your majesty,
27:37your highness,
27:38I have something to report.
27:41The hall fell silent.
27:43The empress frowned.
27:44What is it?
27:45Edith looked up,
27:46pointed at me,
27:47her voice trembling
27:48but clear.
27:49Madam Eleanor
27:50has hidden a man's clothing.
27:53It's improper.
27:54It could taint
27:55the royal bloodline.
27:57Gasps rippled
27:58through the hall,
27:59all eyes locked onto me.
28:00The crown princess's face
28:02hardened,
28:02her grip tightening
28:03on her cup.
28:04The crown prince
28:04set down his chopsticks,
28:06his gaze sweeping calmly
28:07over Edith and me.
28:08The empress's voice
28:09turned cold.
28:10Lady Edith,
28:10do you know the penalty
28:12for slandering
28:13a secondary consort?
28:14Have proof.
28:16Edith bowed her head
28:17to the floor.
28:18I saw with my own eyes
28:19a man's pouch
28:20in her chambers.
28:22New style,
28:23not from the palace.
28:29I've seen similar fabric
28:32and pattern
28:32on off-duty guards
28:33before.
28:34She pulled the pouch
28:35from her sleeve.
28:36Brown leather base
28:37with a pagoda
28:38embroidered on it.
28:39Palace pouches
28:40follow strict patterns
28:41like clouds
28:42or dragon motifs.
28:44This pouch
28:44was definitely
28:45not palace issue.
28:46She spoke with
28:47such certainty
28:47as if it were all true.
28:48Then whispers erupted.
28:50Madam Eleanor
28:50looks so demure,
28:51but how bold.
28:53No wonder
28:53his highness rarely visits.
28:54It's a real scandal.
28:56Set down my tea lid,
28:57stood,
28:58walked to the center
28:58and knelt beside Edith,
29:00calm and composed.
29:01Your majesty,
29:02your highnesses,
29:03let me explain this.
29:04My voice was steady.
29:05The pouch
29:05Lady Edith mentioned
29:06did come from my chambers.
29:08Another wave of gasps.
29:09Edith's eyes flashed
29:10with triumph.
29:11But I continued.
29:12This pouch
29:12wasn't hidden away.
29:13A month ago,
29:14the crown princess
29:14gave me a piece of fabric
29:16and asked me to use it
29:17as a model
29:18to embroider a pouch
29:19for his highness.
29:20It's a birthday surprise.
29:23The crown princess
29:24can confirm this.
29:25To embroider a pouch
29:26for his highness.
29:27It's a birthday surprise.
29:29The crown princess
29:31can confirm this.
29:32All eyes turned to her.
29:34Matilda rose slowly,
29:35walked to my side,
29:36bowed to the empress
29:37and crown prince,
29:38then spoke clearly.
29:39Your majesty,
29:40your highness,
29:41it's true.
29:42The fabric came
29:43from my family,
29:44newly arrived from the west.
29:45I thought his highness
29:46would like it,
29:47so I asked Madam Eleanor
29:48to embroider it.
29:49We kept it quiet
29:50to surprise him.
29:51I never imagined
29:52Lady Edith would misunderstand
29:53and cause today's scene.
29:55She looked at Edith,
29:56her gaze cutting like a blade.
29:57Lady Edith,
29:58when you saw the pouch,
29:59why didn't you come to me
30:00or Madam Eleanor first?
30:02Instead,
30:02at a palace banquet,
30:03before all the nobles,
30:05you made accusations
30:06that destroy a reputation.
30:07Was this an honest mistake
30:09or deliberate slander?
30:10That destroy a reputation?
30:12Was this an honest mistake
30:13or deliberate slander?
30:14I only feared
30:15for the royal family's honor.
30:18Such concern for honor.
30:20I continued,
30:21my voice still calm
30:22but edged with cold doubt.
30:23I have one more question.
30:25Guards are on duty
30:26only in the outer court.
30:28Unless it's the crown princess,
30:29who by regulation
30:31may inspect defenses
30:32at specific hours
30:33or in emergencies,
30:34no palace woman
30:35can set foot
30:36in the outer court,
30:37let alone encounter
30:38guards changing shifts.
30:40So tell me,
30:40Lady Edith,
30:41where and when
30:42and for what reason
30:44did you see
30:44off-duty guards
30:45outside the palace
30:46and get close enough
30:47to study the pouch
30:48at their waist?
30:50Edith trembled violently.
30:51Her lips quivered
30:52but no words came.
30:53Her eyes darted instinctively
30:54toward Consort Doris
30:56and Prince Julian.
30:57Her eyes darted instinctively
30:58toward Consort Doris
30:59and Prince Julian.
31:01Consort Doris sat regally
31:02but her knuckles
31:03had gone white
31:03around her handkerchief.
31:05Prince Julian looked down,
31:06toying with his wine cup
31:07as if he had nothing
31:08to do with it.
31:09Their affair forgotten.
31:10I...
31:11Sweat beaded on Edith's forehead.
31:14Maybe...
31:14Maybe I misremembered.
31:17Perhaps I just glimpsed it
31:18from a palace path.
31:19Palace path?
31:20I interrupted softly,
31:22still calm.
31:23Which guard?
31:23Name?
31:25Rank?
31:26Patrol area?
31:27You saw it clearly enough
31:28to describe the pattern.
31:29You must have been close.
31:31Surely you remember
31:32some detail.
31:33Or perhaps someone else
31:34was there
31:34who can verify your claim?
31:36Or perhaps someone else
31:37was there
31:38who can verify your claim?
31:40Each question
31:41sliced through her lies
31:42like a cold blade.
31:43She couldn't recall
31:44any guard's name or face.
31:46She'd glimpsed a guard
31:47while meeting Prince Julian.
31:50Admitting that
31:50would destroy her.
31:52I...
31:53She stammered.
31:54Her face draining of color.
31:56Her body trembling.
31:57Consort Doris
31:58cut in smoothly,
31:59trying to diffuse the tension.
32:01Oh dear.
32:02The banquet's been lively.
32:04She must have had
32:05too much wine.
32:06A bit tipsy.
32:07Just rambling now.
32:09She turned to the Empress.
32:10Forgive her,
32:11Your Majesty.
32:12She's young.
32:13Can't hold her liquor.
32:14Tipsy.
32:15I smiled slightly,
32:16looking at Consort Doris.
32:17My eyes clear.
32:18Your Highness,
32:18I helped arrange
32:20tonight's banquet.
32:21Knowing my sister
32:22can't hold her wine,
32:23I made sure her cup
32:24held soup.
32:25Not wine.
32:26Since when does soup
32:27make someone drunk?
32:28Knowing my sister
32:29can't hold her wine,
32:30I made sure her cup
32:31held soup.
32:31Not wine.
32:33Since when does soup
32:34make someone drunk?
32:35Consort Doris's smile froze.
32:37My father,
32:37who'd kept silent,
32:38could no longer stay seated.
32:39He knelt before the Empress.
32:41My daughter Edith
32:42has always been gentle,
32:44never hurt a soul.
32:46Today,
32:46she must have been mistaken.
32:48Misidentified the item.
32:50She meant no harm.
32:51She was just worried
32:53her sister might slip
32:54and shame the royal family.
32:56My mother rushed to kneel,
32:57tears streaming.
32:58Your Majesty,
32:59please see clearly.
33:00Edith is the most
33:01thoughtful child.
33:02It was a misunderstanding.
33:04Eleanor,
33:04she's your sister.
33:05Why are you so relentless
33:06trying to destroy her?
33:08Their voices dipped
33:09with anguish.
33:10Each word an accusation.
33:12I'd lived this scene
33:12countless times before.
33:14Every time I gave in,
33:15admitted faults
33:15and took the blame.
33:17Every time I gave in,
33:19admitted fault
33:19and took the blame.
33:21I watched them,
33:22all worry and pain,
33:23but felt nothing.
33:24I simply looked toward
33:25the Empress and the Crown Prince.
33:27The Empress's eyes narrowed.
33:29She exchanged a glance with him.
33:30The Crown Prince spoke,
33:31his voice flat
33:32but with quiet finality.
33:34Lady Edith,
33:35I asked you once more,
33:36where were you
33:37and who did you see
33:38wearing that pouch?
33:39If you can't answer,
33:40you deliberately framed
33:41a consort,
33:42disrupted this banquet
33:43and trespassed
33:44where you shouldn't.
33:45If you can answer,
33:46he paused,
33:46his gaze flickering
33:47toward Prince Julian.
33:49Then you'd better
33:49explain thoroughly.
33:50I don't know.
33:51I truly don't.
33:53I must have been mistaken.
33:54It was a mistake.
33:56So you can't explain.
33:57The Crown Prince's tone
33:58gave nothing away.
33:59Mother,
34:00this touches on security
34:01and a consort's honor.
34:02It's no small matter.
34:03Lady Edith's story
34:04makes no sense.
34:05Too many questions.
34:06Send her to the court
34:07of inquiry
34:07and investigate
34:08any servants involved as well.
34:10Mother,
34:10this touches on security
34:11and a consort's honor.
34:13It's no small matter.
34:14Lady Edith's story
34:14makes no sense.
34:15Too many questions.
34:16Send her to the court
34:17of inquiry
34:18and investigate
34:18any servants involved as well.
34:20The Empress nodded.
34:21Her authority absolute.
34:22Granted.
34:23Guards,
34:23take Lady Edith away.
34:25Keep her under watch.
34:26Minister Shaw,
34:27Madam Shaw,
34:28until this is resolved,
34:30watch your words.
34:31Two sturdy matrons
34:32grabbed Edith
34:33and dragged her up.
34:34Father,
34:35Mother,
34:36help me.
34:37Your Highness.
34:38She screamed and thrashed,
34:40all pretense of grace gone.
34:42The banquet ended coldly.
34:44I rose with the Crown Princess.
34:46Passing my parents,
34:47my father lowered his voice
34:48and gritted out a few words.
34:50Ungrateful girl,
34:51you'll pay.
34:52My mother shot me
34:52an icy stare,
34:53silently forming two words.
34:55Wretched child.
34:56My mother shot me
34:56an icy stare,
34:58silently forming two words.
34:59Wretched child.
35:00I walked out of Lyric Pavilion,
35:02back straight,
35:02as if I hadn't heard.
35:03The next day,
35:04the Crown Princess
35:05sent gifts to calm my nerves.
35:06She said the Emperor
35:07had ordered a probe.
35:08That afternoon,
35:09I claimed illness
35:09and rested.
35:10At dusk,
35:11a letter from my father
35:12slid under my door.
35:13It harshly accused me
35:13of attacking my sister
35:14and demanded I plead for her
35:16with the Empress.
35:16If not,
35:17he'd cut off my palace funds.
35:18I held the letter,
35:19seeing my past life,
35:20dying in the Prince's manor,
35:21their silence cold
35:21as I begged for help.
35:22I lit a candle,
35:23the paper burned.
35:23This time,
35:24I'd already paid back
35:25my debt of life.
35:26Only enmity remained.
35:27The dungeon was dank
35:28and dark.
35:29In just days,
35:30Edith was gaunt,
35:31filthy,
35:32her fingers marked
35:32by torture.
35:33When she saw me,
35:34she screamed curses.
35:35I'm here to offer you
35:36a way out.
35:36I stood calmly
35:37outside the bars.
35:38She laughed,
35:38not believing.
35:39I passed her a forged
35:40letter from Father.
35:41I'm here to offer you
35:41a way out.
35:42I stood calmly
35:43outside the bars.
35:44She laughed,
35:44not believing.
35:45I passed her a forged
35:46letter from Father,
35:47saying the Shaw's
35:47would cut ties
35:48to save themselves.
35:49She read it,
35:50trembling,
35:50then lashed out.
35:51You're lying.
35:52Father and mother
35:53would never...
35:54Was the calming tea
35:55Consort Doris
35:56sent you also a lie?
35:57I said slowly,
35:58if the Crown Princess
35:59hadn't swapped it,
36:00you'd already be dead.
36:01They sacrificed me.
36:02They can sacrifice you too.
36:04Consort Doris
36:04and Prince Julian
36:05will cover their tracks.
36:06No one's left
36:07who cares if you live
36:08or die.
36:09Edith collapsed,
36:10the letter fluttering down.
36:11She wept,
36:12hugging her knees.
36:13Later,
36:13she looked up,
36:14tear streaked,
36:15desperation in her eyes.
36:16What do you want to know?
36:18If it means living,
36:19I'll tell you everything.
36:20Prince Julian
36:21and Consort Doris' plans.
36:22Your spies in the Crown Palace.
36:24Their allies at court.
36:25Her gaze wavered.
36:26Prince Julian
36:26and Consort Doris' plans.
36:28Your spies in the Crown Palace.
36:29Their allies at court.
36:31Her eyes wavered.
36:31I told her
36:32I couldn't guarantee her life,
36:33but if she gave enough,
36:34maybe just life in prison.
36:35Better than dying here
36:36or worse.
36:37With no way out,
36:38she broke.
36:39Besides the known ones,
36:41they planted a spy
36:42in the tea room years ago.
36:45Their allies and contacts
36:46are in a ledger I kept.
36:48She named a few.
36:50The Prince of Hanum was one.
36:52It's hidden in the archive hall,
36:54inside a book on the third shelf,
36:56seventh column,
36:58top.
36:59Eleanor Shaw,
37:00I concede.
37:02Her gaze was heavy.
37:03But Consort Doris
37:05and Prince Julian won't stop.
37:07And when our parents learn
37:08you did this,
37:09they'll know soon enough.
37:11And when our parents learn
37:12you did this,
37:13they'll know soon enough.
37:14I turned and left.
37:16I didn't look back.
37:17The ledger was retrieved.
37:18It listed in detail
37:19their palace spies,
37:20bribed officials,
37:21and secret plots.
37:22Next to the Prince of Hanum's name
37:24were his oath
37:24and lavish tributes.
37:26The Crown Princess
37:26took me to the Crown Prince.
37:28He read it silently,
37:29then asked how we should proceed.
37:30She suggested
37:31questioning the servants
37:32and letting the Emperor
37:33handle the officials.
37:34He turned to me.
37:35This started with you.
37:36What do you think?
37:37I lowered my eyes.
37:38My parents are in that ledger.
37:40I dare not speak.
37:42I only ask that the law decide
37:43with no leniency for my sake.
37:45The law?
37:46He studied me a moment,
37:47then tucked the ledger away.
37:48I understand.
37:49After that,
37:50several servants
37:50quietly vanished from the palace.
37:52After that,
37:53several servants
37:53quietly vanished from the palace.
37:55In the court,
37:55a storm erupted.
37:57The Prince of Hanum fell first.
37:58They found weapons
37:59and proof of treason.
38:00He was sentenced to die.
38:01His family was exiled.
38:03When I heard,
38:04it was embroidering.
38:05My hands steady.
38:06I sent the man
38:07who destroyed me
38:07in my past life
38:08to his death.
38:09Next,
38:09the Shahs.
38:10My father sold offices
38:11and leaked exam questions.
38:13My mother took bribes
38:14and brokered deals.
38:15Proof in hand.
38:16Our home was seized.
38:17Both parents jailed.
38:18The Empress held my hand
38:19and sighed.
38:20I rested my head
38:20on her knee.
38:21I just don't understand,
38:23I whispered.
38:24How blood can be so cold.
38:25My mother screamed curses
38:26like a madwoman
38:27as they dragged her out.
38:28My father just kept muttering,
38:30Monsters.
38:30Bought monsters.
38:31Edith handed in the evidence
38:32and was spared death,
38:33but stripped of her rank
38:34and forced to become
38:35a nun to live out
38:36her days in prayer.
38:37Consort Doris was sent
38:37to the cold palace.
38:38Prince Julian was confined.
38:39His guards stripped away.
38:40The storm passed.
38:41Consort Doris was sent
38:42to the cold palace.
38:43Prince Julian was confined.
38:44His guards stripped away.
38:45The storm passed.
38:46It was autumn.
38:47The crown princess
38:47invited me riding.
38:48She wore her riding clothes,
38:49breathtakingly bold.
38:50I wore the men's outfit
38:51she'd given me,
38:52cloaked like a fragile scholar.
38:53On horseback,
38:54she asked,
38:54feeling any lighter?
38:56Looked at the clouds overhead.
38:57Not lighter, really.
38:58Just what needed doing
38:59is done.
39:00The scores settled.
39:02Time to move on.
39:02She reined in her horse
39:03and turned to me,
39:04her gaze warm and steady.
39:06Eleanor,
39:06I know you don't love
39:07His Highness,
39:08but here in the crown palace,
39:10a child might give you
39:11more security,
39:12and he's not indifferent to you.
39:14She smiled faintly.
39:15He often loses himself
39:16in thought,
39:17looking at your
39:17double-sided screen.
39:18He even asked
39:19how you embroidered
39:20the headband
39:21you made the Empress.
39:22He's a guarded man,
39:23but not cold.
39:24Looked down,
39:25silent.
39:26No rush,
39:26let things unfold.
39:28She squeezed my hand.
39:29Whatever you choose,
39:30I'm with you.
39:31In this palace,
39:32we'll watch out for each other,
39:34as sisters.
39:35Sister?
39:36From her,
39:36the word felt real.
39:39I looked up and smiled.
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