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[DUBBED] Ashes to Honor - Short Drama Full HD 720p #ASM
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Short filmTranscript
00:00I'm a bastard. My dad is the grand preceptor.
00:0316 years ago, when mom was pregnant with me, she went back to dad's hometown, but got ambushed by bandits.
00:07To save my dad, mom lured them away alone. Dad got away.
00:10Mom was rescued too, eventually. But the bandits were monsters.
00:13They raped my pregnant mom. People said she'd lost her chastity and should hang herself.
00:17But mom wouldn't give in. For the baby inside her, she fought to live.
00:20Dad, worried about his good name, couldn't just divorce her. After all, she'd saved his life.
00:24If he abandoned her, he would disgrace himself, and that would wreck his career.
00:27So he had her sent to a rundown estate outside the Capitol.
00:30Claiming it was so she might bear the child in peace, away from gossip.
00:33But the place was falling apart. Practically abandoned.
00:35It was not safe for an expectant mom.
00:37Half a year later, once folks forgot about her, dad married his mentor's daughter in a grand ceremony.
00:41On his wedding day, mom gave birth to me.
00:43Mom and I were confined in that estate for eight years.
00:45Throughout that time, dad never once appeared.
00:47Only two maids looked after us.
00:49Though, in truth, it meant keeping us under close guard.
00:51We were forbidden to wander or speak to anyone.
00:53The estate was remote, so guarding us was no easy task.
00:56The two maids were resentful, and always took it out on us.
00:59They called mom a whore, said she should have ended her life.
01:02They called me a bastard, said I was born from mom cheating.
01:05Mom protected me and argued with them, yet each time, she was beaten black and blue.
01:08Once, when mom was beaten again, I crept under their bed at night, planning to scare them.
01:12But I heard them whispering, saying that the assaults were commanded by Mrs. Sutton in the manor.
01:16Their aim was to drive us to despair, to force us to end our lives.
01:20It wasn't that she didn't dare kill us, but she and dad cared about their reputation.
01:23If they killed us, and clues were found, it would be their weakness.
01:26Dad's career was thriving, so he didn't risk it, choosing instead to torment us slowly.
01:30Our deaths by suicide would serve them best.
01:32Even if it were discovered that the maid's cruelty drove us to suicide,
01:35they could claim they were absent, and blame the servants, and thus wash their hands clean.
01:39I told mom about this, yet she made no protest.
01:42She started teaching me to read and write, and some rules I didn't understand.
01:45Unwilling to accept my fate, I wanted to confront my dad, but mom forbade it, strictly.
01:49Rebellious, I attempted to sneak away, and when supplies were delivered to the estate,
01:52I stowed myself upon the carriage. It was my first glimpse of Sutton Manor, in its splendor,
01:57and extreme magnificence. I was clad in rags, cast out like a beggar.
02:00At the gate, I saw dad returning with a delicately beautiful girl in a sedan chair.
02:04I walked up to dad, but his guards struck me down. He regarded me with disdain,
02:08and had me returned to the estate. His tone was cold, looking at me as if at a disgrace.
02:11I heard the girl ask dad who I was. Dad gently told the girl,
02:14Merely a beggar. They are dirty. Molly, do not look. It will soil your eyes.
02:18Later, I learned that she was Mrs. Sutton's daughter, named Molly Sutton.
02:21At just seven, she was famed for her talents, dad's pride.
02:24At eight, I thought that if I studied diligently, I could be loved by dad like Molly.
02:28So I studied desperately.
02:30As I grew year by year, my beauty flourished, and mom grew increasingly anxious,
02:34forbidding me to adorn myself, to prevent the maids guarding us from discovering my looks.
02:38She even made myself look ugly.
02:39On my coming of age day, mom persuaded the maids, who escorted her back to the manor.
02:43Yet, she returned half a day later, sorrowful and silent.
02:47I didn't know what happened in the manor. Mom didn't tell me anything.
02:50Just desperately taught me art and needlework.
02:52Within months, she took her own life without warning,
02:55leaving a note filled with remorse, saying her body was tainted, that she had no right to exist.
03:00I didn't believe the note, nor that mom killed herself.
03:03I fought with the two maids guarding us, thinking they forced her, but was knocked unconscious.
03:07When I woke up again, I fled the estate, seeking a coroner to examine her body.
03:11The result was that mom indeed died by suicide.
03:13The guarding maid said to me,
03:14Stop making trouble.
03:15Your whore mother killed herself.
03:17She made a deal with Mr. and Mrs. Sutton.
03:19Her suicide preserves the manor's honor, and you are promised a noble match.
03:23Mrs. Sutton is kind.
03:24She has found you a good match.
03:25He is a crippled widower butcher.
03:27With your status, marrying him is your fortune.
03:29Prepare yourself.
03:30Soon, you will be wed.
03:31She laughed triumphantly, as if rejoicing that her duty ended.
03:34This time, I made no protest.
03:36They thought I had accepted my fate, but past midnight, when they slept, I carried mom's
03:40corpse and escaped.
03:41They thought I had accepted my fate, but past midnight, when they slept, I carried mom's
03:46corpse and escaped.
03:47When I reached the capital, dawn had broken.
03:49I pressed on to Sutton Manor.
03:50All I sought was justice for my mother.
03:52But as I got to Sutton Manor, an endless wedding procession poured forth.
03:55A river of red stretched on.
03:56The pomp was unrivaled.
03:57Whispers reached my ears.
03:59It was my sister, Molly Sutton.
04:00She was entering the royal palace to become a noble consort.
04:03Dad stood at the gate, sending her off.
04:04Face aglow with pride.
04:05Officials flocked around him, offering flattery.
04:08Smugness radiated from him.
04:09My mother's death counted for naught in his eyes.
04:11It brightened his day, even.
04:12I stood here with my mom on my back, watching in silence.
04:15The coins and wedding treats cast by the servants struck me, yet I felt no pain.
04:20I clenched my fists, nails digging into my palms.
04:22I swore right then to avenge my mom.
04:24All of them would answer for her death.
04:26I swore right then to avenge my mom.
04:28All of them would answer for her death.
04:30The Treasures Gallery was the largest auction house.
04:32They had every rare treasure there.
04:34If you could imagine it, they could claim it.
04:37Nothing is too precious or too perilous to sell.
04:39No one knows who truly runs this place, but whether a pampered lord or a blue-blood heir
04:43all held themselves in check there.
04:45I stood on the top floor, staring at Mr. Harvey, the manager.
04:49What would you like to buy?
04:50Mr. Harvey asks.
04:51I look him dead in the eye.
04:52I'm not here to buy.
04:53I'm here to sell.
04:54And what are you selling?
04:55An item worth 500,000 tails of silver.
04:57Will you accept it?
04:58I shot back.
04:58Mr. Harvey smiled.
04:59I'm only the manager, but I could authorize 500,000 tails of silver.
05:03Go ahead, miss.
05:04I want to sell myself.
05:05I fixed my gaze upon him.
05:07His smile vanished.
05:08Miss, this is no jest.
05:09I'm the daughter of the Grand Preceptor, sister to Lady Sutton.
05:12I'm worth every coin of it.
05:13I need this to bury my mother.
05:14This tale alone would set the Treasures Gallery ablaze with news.
05:17Your reputation will soar.
05:19This deal will cost you nothing.
05:21You claim there is not you would dare not auction.
05:23So, do you dare accept my offer?
05:25I struck at his pride with ease.
05:27Mr. Harvey studied me hard.
05:28Then he said,
05:29Miss, pray wait a moment.
05:30With that, he stepped forth, clearly, to confer with the true Lord.
05:34About 15 minutes later, Mr. Harvey returned.
05:36Miss, we accept your offer.
05:38Miss, we accept your offer.
05:40It would commence in three days.
05:42Before that, I had two matters to entrust to you.
05:44I turned to Mr. Harvey.
05:45He said,
05:46Pray speak, miss.
05:48First, spread the word far and wide that I'm selling myself.
05:50Let all know who my families are.
05:52Let it echo through every street in the Capitol.
05:55Even reaching the Palace Halls.
05:57Second, guard me for three days.
05:58No matter who tries to put pressure on you,
06:00do not halt the auction.
06:02And do not surrender me.
06:03Told Mr. Harvey.
06:04He nodded.
06:05Miss, that is open war with Preceptor Sutton.
06:08Still, we shall stand with you.
06:10I grinned.
06:10I was declaring war.
06:11Stephen Sutton might hold the highest office,
06:13and many fawned over him.
06:14Yet many watched for his fall.
06:16I swore I'd make him the laughingstock of the whole city.
06:18And I'd not stop at humiliating him.
06:20I'd claim justice for my mom.
06:22Sure enough, once the news spread,
06:24the entire Capitol was buzzing.
06:25Sure enough, once the news spread,
06:28the entire Capitol was buzzing.
06:30Because with that rumor came a 17-year-old tale.
06:32My mom was violated by bandits,
06:33saving Stephen Sutton.
06:3417 years have passed since.
06:35Most people forgot, but I never did.
06:37Mom died because of it.
06:38But Sutton thrived.
06:40Was it fair?
06:41So I paid to have the truth spread.
06:43Some whispered,
06:43he beat us so badly,
06:44we could not bury her.
06:46So I sold myself to lay her to rest.
06:47Others called him ungrateful
06:48for betraying his wife.
06:50Some claimed I should have been the noble consort,
06:52because I was the Preceptor's first daughter.
06:54Molly Sutton was the second wife's child,
06:56which made her illegitimate.
06:57Just one hour later,
06:59Stephen Sutton stormed the Treasures Gallery,
07:00with club-wielding thugs seeking to seize me.
07:02But I knew he clearly meant
07:04to beat me dead on the spot.
07:06Good thing I had already hidden.
07:07He tore through the place and couldn't find me,
07:09so he stomped off in fury.
07:11Mr. Harvey told me
07:12Sutton had spies near Treasures Gallery,
07:14so I must not show my face.
07:16And the palace kept watchers here, too.
07:17Many political opponents of Sutton
07:19also sent people to wait there.
07:20I was not surprised,
07:21because this was expected.
07:22I planned to hide for three days.
07:23Mr. Harvey also told me
07:25Molly entered the palace yesterday.
07:26But because of my rumor,
07:28His Majesty had not stepped in her yard.
07:30I smiled at that.
07:31That was just the beginning of my revenge.
07:33Three days passed swiftly.
07:34The auction began,
07:35house crowded,
07:36and I appeared at that time.
07:37The auction began,
07:39house crowded,
07:39and I appeared at that time.
07:41I sat on the raised platform.
07:42Bidders surrounded me on every side.
07:44They eyed me like I was merchandise.
07:46I stayed calm and gave nothing away.
07:48My gaze swept the room
07:49and spotted Sutton dead center.
07:51His face was thunderous,
07:52eyes blazing.
07:53If that weren't the Treasures Gallery,
07:54he'd have sent someone to beat me to death.
07:56My gaze slid past him,
07:58without pausing.
07:59It stopped at a private box upstairs.
08:01Mr. Harvey told me
08:02the occupants were from the palace,
08:04which ones he did not know.
08:05Mr. Harvey skipped the introductions,
08:07for everyone knew who I was.
08:08He only explained the auction rules.
08:10Today, no calling out bids.
08:11The reserve was 200,000 tails.
08:13Each could write their offer on slips
08:14and hand it to me to read.
08:16Highest bid would win.
08:17I caught Sutton's determined glare.
08:18Then he rose.
08:19I am this disgrace's father.
08:22Whatever she has done today
08:25is my failure as her parent.
08:27I bid 200,000 tails.
08:29I ask you all to show me some courtesy.
08:31He swept across the room,
08:33as if committing every face to memory.
08:34I chuckled.
08:35That was a threat.
08:36Plain and simple.
08:36Few would dare bid after his speech,
08:38but it was a sealed auction.
08:39Someone might still outbid him.
08:41Half an hour later,
08:42Mr. Harvey gathered all the slips
08:43and handed them to me.
08:45I opened them one by one,
08:46taking notes.
08:47Minister Lee, 1,000 tails.
08:49Minister Howard, 8,000 tails.
08:50Chancellor Carter, 10,000 tails.
08:52They were all showing Sutton respect.
08:54Too wary to bid high.
08:55Yet their offers were respectable.
08:56Not so low as to insult his daughter.
08:58Trying to please both sides,
08:59I opened the last slip.
09:01It read,
09:02Stephen Sutton, 200,000 tails.
09:04The highest in the house.
09:05Mr. Harvey studied the figure,
09:06then leaned close and murmured,
09:07Treasure's gallery bows only to silver.
09:09Pray that heaven shows you mercy.
09:10Treasure's gallery bows only to silver.
09:12Pray that heaven shows you mercy.
09:13I understood that.
09:14If Sutton bought me,
09:16my fate would be sealed.
09:17But Treasure's gallery bowed only to silver.
09:19Nothing else.
09:20Such was their rule,
09:21and they would not break it for me.
09:23I smiled,
09:23lifted Sutton's bid slip,
09:24and looked at his smug face.
09:26The top bidder is Preceptor Sutton.
09:28His offer is 500,000 tails.
09:30His expression stiffened.
09:31He rose,
09:32ready to protest.
09:32I cut him off before he could speak.
09:34The second highest bid is 490,000 tails,
09:36a mere 10,000 tails less.
09:38His mouth opened,
09:38yet no words came.
09:40Perhaps he thought I was bluffing,
09:41but he dared not wager on it.
09:43He had to win.
09:44If another man bought me today,
09:45he would lose all his honor,
09:47and I would slip beyond his grasp.
09:49It could be a future calamity.
09:51So he swallowed his anger.
09:52His face darkened.
09:54He produced 500,000 tails of silver in notes,
09:56handed it to Mr. Harvey,
09:57and stepped forward to seize me.
09:59His face darkened.
10:00He produced 500,000 tails of silver in notes,
10:03handed it to Mr. Harvey,
10:04and stepped forward to seize me.
10:05I shook his hand aside,
10:07taking the silver from Mr. Harvey.
10:09The treasure's gallery takes a 20% cut,
10:12so I only walked away with 400,000.
10:14Sutton glared at me.
10:14You wretched brat.
10:16Come home with me.
10:17I'll deal with you myself.
10:18You'll not be taking that silver.
10:20I met his gaze.
10:21You'll be disappointed, Preceptor.
10:23Before he could react,
10:24I turned toward the private box above.
10:26I, Sienna Reed,
10:27donate 400,000 tails to the soldiers at the border,
10:29and present a priceless treasure
10:31to aid His Majesty's urgent need.
10:33All I ask is to serve His Majesty.
10:35Reed is my mother's surname.
10:36The name Sutton disgusts me.
10:38The moment I spoke,
10:39Stephen Sutton's face changed.
10:40He shot me a deadly glare,
10:41and shouted to the second floor.
10:43This wretched brat is joking.
10:44Stephen Sutton's face changed.
10:46He shot me a deadly glare,
10:47and shouted to the second floor.
10:48This wretched brat is joking.
10:50A new emperor reigned.
10:51The border was in chaos.
10:52Skirmishes erupted again and again.
10:53His Majesty sought a fort to frighten the enemies,
10:55and to solidify his claim to the throne.
10:57Sutton and the other officials opposed it.
10:58The generals pushed back, too.
10:59The treasury was near empty,
11:01so the plan kept stalling.
11:02But I was willing to put up 400,000 tails
11:04for supplies to aid His Majesty.
11:06It'd be a boost to him.
11:07His Majesty couldn't ignore that.
11:08Sure enough,
11:09a voice drifted from upstairs.
11:10What do you have to offer?
11:11With that,
11:12a young eunuch scurried down to me.
11:15I took something out and handed it over.
11:17He darted back upstairs with it.
11:19Moments later,
11:20he returned,
11:21holding an imperial decree.
11:22By heaven's mandate,
11:23the emperor decrees,
11:24Sienna Reed shall enter the palace as Lady Reed.
11:26I accepted the decree.
11:27My heart finally at peace.
11:28I had finally crossed that line.
11:29I accepted the decree.
11:30My heart finally at peace.
11:31I had finally crossed that line.
11:33Stephen Sutton's face darkened.
11:34He glared at me and spat.
11:35You bitch.
11:36You're as vile as your bitch mother.
11:38I didn't flinch.
11:39I met his glare and said,
11:40Preceptor Sutton,
11:41I marry today.
11:42As your eldest daughter,
11:43I believe my dowry won't be less than my half-sisters.
11:46And my mother's dowry.
11:47You'll hand that over, too.
11:48I have the list.
11:50With all these big shots here,
11:52I trust you won't steal a woman's dowry.
11:56His face darkened.
11:57You deserve to die.
11:58You should have croaked like that bitch mother of yours.
12:01I should have strangled you when you were born.
12:03A trip to the palace won't change a thing.
12:06I didn't care what he cursed.
12:08I found it ridiculous.
12:10Seated in the palace sedan,
12:11my heart was light.
12:12Today, I won this duel.
12:14But luck played its part, too.
12:15Today, I won this duel.
12:17But luck played its part, too.
12:18Sutton was caught off guard.
12:19So I slipped in and won.
12:21My so-called treasure was nothing but a list of every official who bid today,
12:24showing exactly how much they spent.
12:26The treasury was dry.
12:28Every official was aware of that.
12:29Yet they had still splurged at the auction.
12:31If they could throw cash at a woman,
12:33they could spare it for the treasury.
12:35With this list,
12:37His Majesty could lean on them all to fund the border war.
12:40It was just a list,
12:41but it was exactly the lifeline he had needed.
12:44After moving into Blessing Palace,
12:46I donated every piece of dowry Sutton gave me to the treasury.
12:49Anything from him had felt filthy.
12:51The only dowry I kept was my mother's.
12:53That gesture had thrilled His Majesty.
12:55He had praised my sense of duty and showered me with treasures.
12:58Later, the chief steward arrived with palace maids and eunuchs.
13:01Lady Reed, they've been trained by the Imperial Household.
13:04Please see if any of them please you.
13:06Lady Reed, they've been trained by the Imperial Household.
13:09Please see if any of them please you.
13:11The chief steward smiled broadly.
13:13I glanced at the row of eunuchs and maids,
13:15then looked back at him.
13:16Pick a few for me.
13:17I have only one rule.
13:19They may spy for His Majesty or the Empress,
13:22but never for Lady Sutton or Stephen Sutton.
13:25If I ever find out they do,
13:26I'll kill you even if it costs me my life.
13:28So think hard.
13:29Is the silver Sutton slip to you worth more than your own life?
13:32And don't take my warning lightly.
13:35I swear to the heavens I will keep my word.
13:37The chief steward's smile froze.
13:40He forced a grin.
13:41Your Highness, you must be joking.
13:42I wouldn't dare to do that.
13:43I sipped my tea and ignored him.
13:45His expression flickered for a long moment.
13:47Finally, he picked a few eunuchs and maids
13:49and bowed his way out with the rest.
13:51It was time to pay my respects to the Empress.
13:53By the time I reached the Empress's palace,
13:55it was already full.
13:56By the time I reached the Empress's palace,
13:58it was already full.
13:59The Empress sat in the center, composed.
14:01I paid my respects.
14:02My every move was flawless,
14:04like I'd rehearsed it a thousand times.
14:05The other concubines, expecting me to stumble,
14:07looked stunned.
14:08After all, everyone knew I'd been raised on a run-down estate,
14:11never properly taught,
14:12supposedly too crude for royal life.
14:14Yet here I was, calm and poised.
14:15Lady Reed, you may rise.
14:17Take a seat.
14:17I rose and took a seat.
14:19My gaze landed on the woman across from me.
14:21I knew she was Molly Sutton,
14:22the Emperor's favorite concubine.
14:24Stephen Sutton's pride and joy.
14:26Today is Lady Reed's first day in the palace.
14:27From now on, we're all sisters.
14:29Let's keep the peace.
14:30Molly looked at me,
14:31her eyes full of hatred.
14:32Quite the talent you've got.
14:34Your mom's been dead three days,
14:36yet you had to strut in,
14:37selling yourself to bury her.
14:39What a tearjerker.
14:40You really are one hell of a fake.
14:41I wonder,
14:42if your mother could see you now,
14:43could she rest in peace?
14:44What a nice performance.
14:46I wonder,
14:47if your mother could see you now,
14:49could she rest in peace?
14:50I glanced at the Empress.
14:51She just said we should all play nice.
14:53And now Molly began her barbs.
14:55So much for honoring her majesty.
14:57Clearly she sought to humble me.
14:59Molly was eager to cast aspersions,
15:01because I'd made her life most troublesome.
15:03First, I offered 400,000 tales to the treasury.
15:05Then I cast in nearly all my dowry
15:07from Stephen Sutton as well.
15:08All hailed my virtue,
15:10while Molly twists helplessly in the wind.
15:12As we are both Sutton's daughters,
15:13will she surrender her dowry as well?
15:14Had she kept it,
15:15she proved a selfish wretch.
15:16Had she handed it over,
15:17she bled.
15:18Either path suited my purpose.
15:19I longed for the Sutton's to lie awake in fear.
15:21The other concubines stared at me,
15:23expecting some great display.
15:24I merely smirked.
15:25I was no meek flower.
15:27I shot Molly a glacial look.
15:28So you do know my mother died three days ago.
15:30She was your mother too.
15:32If you were permitted to wed,
15:33why then were not I allowed?
15:35She was your mother too.
15:36If you were permitted to wed,
15:37then why was I not allowed?
15:39I do not know if my mother can rest in peace,
15:41but I do believe your mother will find no rest this night.
15:43Everyone in the capital knew that her mom had been but a concubine fooling herself.
15:48You'll be illegitimate your whole life,
15:49and that is pitiful indeed.
15:51My words made her go ghost white,
15:53because the rumors spread that a bastard had become a noble consort.
15:56His Majesty hadn't stepped into her place once,
15:58so she became a joke.
15:59She was about to snap back,
16:00but the Empress cut her off.
16:02Enough.
16:02Lady Reed stays,
16:03and the rest may leave.
16:04Molly fumed,
16:05but she could do nothing.
16:07She had to file out with the others.
16:08Once the crowd was gone,
16:10the Empress looked at me.
16:11Lady Reed,
16:12His Majesty and I know the grudges between you and Preceptor Sutton.
16:15Since you chose to aid His Majesty,
16:16I shall remember that favor.
16:18Though I hold dread of Preceptor Sutton,
16:20I can still keep you safe.
16:22In just half a day since I arrived,
16:24His Majesty had already taken my list
16:26to press the officials for donations.
16:27In just half a day since I arrived,
16:29His Majesty had already taken my list
16:31to press the officials for donations.
16:33He had solid grounds,
16:34and all was done for the realm.
16:35The officials could no longer feign poverty.
16:36I looked at the Empress and weighed her words.
16:39After a long pause, I said,
16:40That was very kind of you, Your Majesty.
16:42Yet the Sutton's and I shall not rest until one side is laid low.
16:45The Empress sighed,
16:46Why put yourself through this?
16:47A single arm can't wrestle a thigh.
16:49You have no power.
16:50How can you fight them?
16:51I remained silent.
16:52She could do nothing but dismiss me.
16:54That night, I was to serve His Majesty.
16:56Such was the unspoken rule.
16:57At dusk, His Majesty came to my place.
17:00I paid my respects.
17:00Good evening, Your Majesty.
17:02Rise!
17:02He said, then sat down by the table.
17:04I knew that voice.
17:05He was the man from that private box.
17:07Just then,
17:07The eunuch at his side cleared all others away.
17:10I knew His Majesty had words for me.
17:12Sienna,
17:12Preceptor Sutton has asked me to send you into the cold palace.
17:15Sienna,
17:16Preceptor Sutton has asked me to send you into the cold palace.
17:19He looked at me and said,
17:20I stepped forward and poured him a cup of tea.
17:22And what did you say, Your Majesty?
17:24He did not reply at once.
17:26I've just taken the throne.
17:27The court yet wavers.
17:28All civil officials look to him.
17:29If he stands with me,
17:31The court shall stand firm.
17:32After saying that,
17:33He looked troubled and took a sip of tea.
17:35I smiled and said,
17:37Your Majesty wishes to consent.
17:38But I just helped you, Your Majesty.
17:40I offered 500,000 tails of silver for the troops.
17:43The soldiers will remember that.
17:45Should Your Majesty punish me,
17:47It'll break not just their hearts,
17:49But the hearts of all who serve you.
17:51He looked at me,
17:52Surprise flickering in his eyes.
17:54You are keen indeed, Sienna.
17:55Scheming step by step since the auction.
17:57So astute.
17:57Then tell me,
17:58Did I say yes?
17:59I shook my head without hesitation.
18:00Your Majesty would not.
18:01He asked curiously.
18:03Why?
18:03He asked curiously.
18:04Why?
18:05Your reasons are not good enough for me to refuse Sutton's offer.
18:08I could simply wait for the dust to settle,
18:09Then find some pretext and cast you into the cold palace.
18:12Because, Your Majesty, you're the Emperor, the Son of Heaven.
18:15None may coerce you.
18:16He may shield you once,
18:18But twice?
18:19And the third time?
18:20So you will not accept his offer.
18:21I finished and met his gaze.
18:22He said nothing.
18:23Staring at me with cold eyes.
18:25After a long moment, he suddenly laughed.
18:27Sienna, were you a man?
18:28I would name you Prime Minister.
18:30In that instant, I knew he had thought about killing me.
18:33Serving the Emperor is perilous.
18:34In the harem, those two clever seldom live long.
18:36Your Majesty, shall we strike a bargain?
18:39He said,
18:40Speak.
18:40I'll help you bring down Stephen Sutton.
18:42Once he is overthrown, grant me leave to quit the palace and withdraw to Greencliff Monastery.
18:47I fell silent and watched him.
18:48This time, he did not hesitate.
18:50Agreed.
18:50But do you know how deep his influence runs within the court?
18:53Agreed.
18:54But do you know how deep his influence runs within the court?
18:56Yet you dare speak so boldly?
18:58I nodded.
18:59Stephen Sutton is the Grand Preceptor.
19:00He controls all six ministries.
19:02His grip is like iron.
19:03Even your Majesty cannot pry it open.
19:05Then I shall wait and see.
19:06He wasted no words.
19:07He stayed in my palace over an hour before leaving.
19:10Clearly, he was protecting my honor.
19:12Everyone would think I shared his bed.
19:14For these three days, he visited and stayed for over an hour.
19:16Most of the time, we merely played chess.
19:18But to the court, I was his clear favorite.
19:21I heard the porcelain in Grove Palace has been replaced several times.
19:24That was Molly's palace.
19:26It was plain.
19:27His Majesty was provoking her.
19:28And Stephen Sutton, who was backing her.
19:30On the fourth day, word came from Sutton Manor.
19:33Stephen Sutton had cast Mom aside, declaring her unfaithful.
19:35We were no longer part of the Suttons.
19:37And she was barred from the ancestral tomb.
19:39I laughed.
19:40Who would want that tomb?
19:41It would only stain my mom.
19:43But since he had made his move, it was my turn next.
19:45But since he had made his move, it was my turn next.
19:48I asked His Majesty to issue a decree, ordering Stephen Sutton to bring his wife here.
19:51At first, His Majesty had refused.
19:53I explained it could crack the civil official's clique.
19:55Only then did he grudgingly agree.
19:57I waited two hours at my place.
19:59A eunuch finally appeared, leading Sutton and his wife over.
20:01In court, he ranked second to the throne.
20:04Every eunuch and maid bowed to him.
20:06He clearly enjoyed it.
20:09Smug grin all the way.
20:10When he saw me, his eyes burned with anger.
20:12Then he suddenly grinned.
20:14You hold me in just so your mother can rest in the Sutton tomb?
20:17I shot him a glance, then sized up the woman beside him.
20:20She was gorgeous indeed.
20:21Molly definitely took after her.
20:23Preceptor Sutton, what arrogance.
20:24You don't bow to His Majesty's consort.
20:26That was disrespect for the throne.
20:28I laughed.
20:28Sutton's face froze.
20:30He clenched his teeth, bent, and saluted.
20:32His wife's face soured too, but she still bowed.
20:34I slipped something from my sleeve and set it on the table beside me.
20:37They were bowing right to it.
20:39When Sutton straightened and saw it, his face went livid.
20:42Ziena Reed, how dare you?
20:45When Sutton straightened and saw it, his face went livid.
20:48Ziena Reed, how dare you?
20:50When Mrs. Sutton saw that, her face turned foul.
20:52I just smiled, touching the object beside me.
20:54This is my mom's memorial tablet.
20:56It was small enough for me to sneak it into the palace.
20:58They had just bowed to me, which meant they had bowed to my mom too.
21:01No wonder they were angry.
21:03I smiled and said,
21:04I like visiting my mom now and then.
21:07Is that disrespect?
21:08Care to explain, preceptor Sutton?
21:09He was too furious to speak, so his wife snapped instead.
21:13You made my lord bow to that bitch?
21:15Does she deserve it?
21:16I laughed.
21:17Since when does a concubine question my mom?
21:19Attendance, Mrs. Sutton shows disrespect to me.
21:21Slap her face 30 times.
21:22Who dares?
21:23The eunuchs and maids dared not step forward.
21:25Mrs. Sutton looked at me smugly.
21:27I rose and approached.
21:28I slapped her across the face.
21:30I dare.
21:30You are out of line.
21:31Stephen Sutton was furious.
21:32He raised his hand to strike me.
21:33Stephen Sutton was furious.
21:35He raised his hand to strike me.
21:36I glared back, ice cold.
21:37Please think carefully.
21:38If you strike me, you strike the royal family.
21:41Your precious reputation will be ruined.
21:43He lives for his reputation.
21:45He'd never ruin it for his wife.
21:48He trembled with fury.
21:49So the slap never landed.
21:51But I slapped Mrs. Sutton across the face.
21:53I was strong.
21:54She was soft from a pampered life.
21:56Two slaps, and she collapsed to the floor.
21:58She was stunned.
21:59Sienna Reid.
22:00I have plenty of ways to make you wish you were dead.
22:03In the past, I held back, because you are my father.
22:07But today, you humiliated me.
22:09I shall spare you no longer.
22:11He steadied himself.
22:12His voice was shockingly cold.
22:13I sat back down.
22:15Preceptor Sutton, when you drove my mom to her death, you and I became sworn enemies.
22:19Preceptor Sutton, when you drove my mom to her death, you and I became sworn enemies.
22:22Sutton left with his wife.
22:24An hour later, a pile of impeachment scroll shit, the royal study.
22:27That night, the empress came to my place.
22:29Come with me to Mistwater Hall and bring the memorial tablet.
22:32Mistwater Hall was a shrine tucked in a far corner of the palace, where the consorts went to pray.
22:37So I carried mom's tablet and followed the empress there.
22:40She lit the incense sticks, then said to me,
22:43Leave your mother's tablet here.
22:45Palace rules forbid private memorials.
22:47I nodded.
22:48The empress was looking out for me.
22:49Lady Reid, you caused too big a stir this time.
22:52His majesty has to punish you.
22:53She went on.
22:54I nodded again.
22:55I was prepared.
22:56Today was the seventh day since mom died.
22:58I only did it to vent her anger.
23:00Seeing this, the empress sighed.
23:02But you performed a righteous act before, and I pleaded with his majesty.
23:04So this will just be a slap on the wrist.
23:06You're to copy Buddhist sutras.
23:08Lady Reid, since you carry your mother's tablet, I can see how close you two were.
23:11Her spirit wouldn't want you risking yourself like this.
23:14Lady Reid, since you carry your mother's tablet, I can see how close you two were.
23:18Her spirit wouldn't want you risking yourself like this.
23:21I turned to the empress.
23:22Your majesty, spare your breath.
23:23This is a fight to the death.
23:25The empress sighed again.
23:26She pointed toward the garden.
23:27Look at those maids.
23:29I followed her gaze.
23:31A bunch of girls were out there, pulling weeds in the flower beds.
23:34Mistwater Hall lay deep in the palace, so the others rarely come by.
23:37Yet the maids had grown bold, working while joking around, their laughter drifting in.
23:41This palace was steeped in darkness, devouring all who enter.
23:44Yet a sliver of hope and peace remained.
23:46If you wait just a year till everyone forgets you, I'll beg his majesty to let you leave.
23:50You can live in peace in a quiet place, looked at her and asked.
23:54Why do you do this?
23:55Ever since I was here, I felt she treated me differently.
23:57And now she speaks of sending me away?
24:00Such words suited not an empress.
24:01Ever since I was here, I felt she treated me differently.
24:04And now she speaks of sending me away?
24:06Such words suited not an empress.
24:08She smiled and said,
24:09You may not believe it, but I can see in you the rebellion I've long craved.
24:13The courage to defy all.
24:15I've lived my life for my family.
24:17I am but his majesty's empress.
24:19But you are not.
24:20You can be more than that.
24:21I pondered her words on the way back.
24:23At Blessing Palace, I found Molly waiting there with some servants.
24:27Sienna, you bitch!
24:28The moment she saw me, she lunged to tear me apart.
24:31But her maid pulled her back.
24:32Please don't, my lady.
24:33You're far too noble to scrap with her head on.
24:36Please, my lady.
24:37Lord Sutton has joined the ministers to submit a memorial against her.
24:40The crowd's urging brought her to calm.
24:43I stared at her.
24:44Soon you'll learn a true slap.
24:45You swagger because his majesty spoils you.
24:47Mark my words.
24:48I'll take that favor from you.
24:50Just wait and see.
24:51Molly spun and stormed off with her maids.
24:54Soon word spread.
24:55She marched to the royal study with soup.
24:58Never had she done such a thing.
24:59Soon word spread.
25:00She marched to the royal study with soup.
25:03Never had she done such a thing.
25:04She flaunted being the grand preceptor's daughter, thought herself above all, and looked down on the other consorts.
25:09She said offering soup to his majesty was mere flattery.
25:12No one thought she'd swallow her pride.
25:14But that night, his majesty still came to my place.
25:18He tossed impeachments at me.
25:20I'll give you a chance to explain.
25:22I flipped one open, skimmed the contents, then chuckled.
25:25Your majesty, now you see.
25:27Half the court bends to Sutton.
25:29They would strike your own consort to please one of his mistresses.
25:33Spare me the talk.
25:35He shot me a cold glance.
25:36I smiled.
25:37Before tomorrow's court, please issue another decree.
25:40Summon them to Blessing Palace again.
25:42Tell them I intend to apologize in person.
25:44He frowned.
25:45So you yield already?
25:46He frowned.
25:47So you yield already?
25:48I chuckled.
25:49Your majesty, you jest.
25:50Do you think Sutton would show up?
25:52He pondered for a moment.
25:53Likely not.
25:54I nodded.
25:54He is the top civil official.
25:56He'd never swallow this kind of humiliation.
25:58So he will not appear.
26:00You know that.
26:01So why make me summon him?
26:03Because a no-show brands defiance.
26:05To avoid that, he'll feign illness, claiming to be too sick to be here.
26:10I met his eyes.
26:11Then what?
26:11He asked.
26:12If he's too sick, he sure can't attend court.
26:15So tomorrow on the floor, those officials will be headless chickens.
26:19That's when you can really throw your weight around.
26:21I said.
26:21He shook his head.
26:22It won't work.
26:23Those officials aren't idiots.
26:25With Sutton gone, they'll feign ignorance.
26:27And I can't just kill them.
26:28I shook my head slightly.
26:30True, you can't kill them.
26:31But you can refuse to end the session.
26:33Stay in court until they yield.
26:35I doubt they last long.
26:37Stay in court until they yield.
26:39I doubt they last long.
26:40He paused, then scoffed.
26:42A rather underhanded trick.
26:43I had never thought of it.
26:45I chuckled and said.
26:46Your majesty was too upright.
26:47Sometimes a little cunning worked wonders.
26:50The next morning, before court, an imperial decree was sent to Sutton Manor.
26:53Soon, the eunuch returned with word.
26:55Stephen Sutton claimed illness and could not attend court.
26:58Meanwhile, his majesty had his men work through the night, drafting a stack of promotion edicts.
27:04Every name was Sutton's die-hard allies.
27:06His other supporters rose to object.
27:09But his majesty was prepared.
27:11He argued them into complete silence.
27:13Sure enough, they began to stall, each asking to delay, to consider the matter at home.
27:18On any other day, his majesty might have allowed it.
27:20But that day, he sealed the hall, ordering a decision before anyone could leave.
27:24But that day, he sealed the hall, ordering a decision before anyone could leave.
27:29He even had food brought in.
27:30I told a young eunuch to keep watch.
27:32By noon, those officials still would not yield.
27:35So I had the eunuch inform his majesty's personal eunuch and told him to enter with an imperial edict.
27:40It declared that Sutton had suddenly fallen ill, said to be at death's door.
27:44The news threw his followers into panic.
27:46They couldn't leave, nor could any message reach them.
27:49Finally, around 2 p.m., one official yielded.
27:52Then the rest followed, one after another.
27:54His majesty issued decree after decree, removing half of Sutton's men from the court and replacing them with his own.
28:00Later, when his majesty came to my place, he was utterly delighted.
28:03I heard his laughter before he even entered.
28:05If only you were a man.
28:06He looked at me, regret written on his face.
28:08Late that night, Sutton hurried into the palace, but his majesty refused to see him.
28:11He merely had a eunuch relay.
28:13Since you're sick, remain in bed and get more rest.
28:15Sutton's face turned ashen, yet there was nothing he could do.
28:18Sutton's face turned ashen, yet there was nothing he could do.
28:21Every single official had signed off on it, and the decree was already out.
28:24Over the next month, his majesty began to wield the axe.
28:26Now that he had his own men behind him, he dismissed many of Sutton's pupils.
28:29Good news kept arriving from the frontier.
28:32His majesty's authority silenced the whole court.
28:34Even Sutton could only cling to his own seat.
28:36During that month, no matter how hard Molly tried to please him,
28:40he never once set foot in her place.
28:42Most nights, his majesty came to me to play chess.
28:45Next he visited the empress, then a few other consorts.
28:48The reason was simple.
28:50He was sending the civil officials a message.
28:52He was displeased with Sutton.
28:53Sutton might sway the ministers, but could he decide where his majesty spent the night?
28:57I had a hand in it too.
28:59I set one condition with his majesty.
29:00It was my move to bring down the Sutton's.
29:02Well, I did have a hand in it.
29:04I set one condition with his majesty.
29:06It was my move to bring down the Sutton's.
29:08To keep Sutton from sending assassins after me, his majesty and the empress secretly placed
29:12guards around me.
29:13Even the maids at my side were skilled in combat.
29:15Yet none suspected a thing.
29:17Another month passed.
29:18Molly began to grow uneasy.
29:20She quietly sent word back to Sutton Manor.
29:22Within hours, a request to enter the palace arrived.
29:24Mrs. Sutton showed up.
29:25She kept a low profile, as though afraid I might notice.
29:28She went straight to Molly's palace.
29:30About two hours later, she prepared to leave.
29:32I instructed a eunuch and a maid to cross her path on her way out, speaking loudly of
29:36how I had been tormenting Molly.
29:38After she left, the eunuch returned to report that she departed in fury.
29:42That night, his majesty came over for chess again.
29:45We had barely set up the board when a maid from Molly's palace rushed in.
29:48Your majesty, please come see Lady Sutton.
29:50We had barely set up the board when a maid from Molly's palace rushed in.
29:53Your majesty, please come see Lady Sutton.
29:55She is very ill.
29:56She refuses to see the imperial doctor.
29:58She even fainted a moment ago.
30:00The maid wept bitterly.
30:01It was quite convincing.
30:02I merely snorted, but said nothing.
30:03So her mother had devised such a scheme.
30:06His majesty frowned.
30:07Till now, Molly only sent soup and snacks, or waited outside for a chance encounter.
30:12She had never feigned illness.
30:13It seemed today she finally tried it.
30:14Your majesty, please go take a look.
30:16She fainted calling your name.
30:18I let out a laugh.
30:20Lady Sutton's devotion is touching.
30:22His majesty shot me a glare, then rose with a sigh.
30:24I shall go.
30:24The maid brightened, and led the way.
30:27I waited until morning, then brought the imperial doctor to Molly's place.
30:31The moment we entered, she lay weakly upon the bed, clutching his majesty's sleeve for
30:36dear life.
30:37When she spotted me, a flash of malice flashed in her eyes.
30:40When she spotted me, a flash of malice flashed in her eyes.
30:42I smiled and said,
30:43Heard you were unwell, sister.
30:44I brought the doctor.
30:46If ill, you must see him.
30:47Not trouble his majesty.
30:48His majesty cures no one.
30:50With that, I signaled the doctor to examine Molly.
30:52She suddenly clung to his majesty.
30:54I need him not.
30:55I am only uneasy.
30:56With your majesty here, I shall rest.
30:58The doctor dared not to step forward.
31:00I laughed and said,
31:01So you are not ill at all?
31:02Molly said nothing.
31:04But her maid spoke up.
31:06My lady is not ill.
31:07She is plagued by evil spirits, so she can't sleep at night.
31:10Medicine serves no purpose.
31:11His majesty is the son of heaven and can protect my lady.
31:14With his majesty here, only then can my lady rest.
31:17Please, your majesty, have pity.
31:19She has not slept a wink this month.
31:21If sleep eludes her further, her body shall collapse.
31:24I beg your majesty to remain tonight.
31:26I beg your majesty to remain tonight.
31:29Then, every servant fell to their knees.
31:31Molly played the frail damsel.
31:33Even forced out a single tear.
31:35I stood and laughed.
31:36So this is Mrs. Sutton's trick?
31:38Pathetic.
31:38So amateur.
31:39I stopped smiling.
31:40Glancing at the kneeling maids.
31:41I snorted coldly.
31:43Who are you lot?
31:44Lady Sutton is sick.
31:45And you dare ask his majesty to stay?
31:46What if she spreads her illness?
31:47Can you bear the blame if he falls ill?
31:49The maid who spoke first answered,
31:52Lady Reed, my lady suffers from evil spirits, not illness.
31:56You are her elder sister.
31:58Ignoring her is bad enough.
32:00But why stop his majesty from saving her?
32:02Sharp tongue, I thought.
32:03Smiling, I looked at the maid.
32:05Since you need heaven's energy, there is plenty stronger here in the palace.
32:08Attendance.
32:08Carry Lady Sutton to the Imperial Ancestral Temple.
32:10The heavenly energy there far surpasses his majesties.
32:13The heavenly energy there far surpasses his majesties.
32:17It shall cure her in no time.
32:18I said it, then flicked my hand.
32:20A few eunuchs trotted in.
32:21They hoisted Molly and marched to the temple.
32:23Her maids tried to block them.
32:25But the eunuchs I brought shoved them aside.
32:27I'm here to treat Lady Sutton.
32:29Do you still wish to get in my way?
32:30Or shall she remain cursed?
32:32His majesty stood nearby, watching.
32:34A smirk tugging at his lips.
32:35By dawn, Molly collapsed from the cold at the temple's gate.
32:38Yet no one dared say a word.
32:40After all, I was curing her.
32:42No one was foolish.
32:44They all knew the score.
32:45Per my plan.
32:47The news reached Mrs. Sutton, as did every rumor of my tormenting Molly.
32:51Then I had people shadow her.
32:53Three days later, she made her move.
32:55She contacted Sutton's spy in the palace.
32:58That spy was the very maid who'd spoken up in Molly's palace.
33:01Her order was simple.
33:03Kill me.
33:03That spy was the very maid who'd spoken up in Molly's palace.
33:07Her order was simple.
33:08Kill me.
33:09I had the shadow guard sent by his majesty.
33:11So every move she and the spy made was reported to me.
33:14And his majesty and the empress knew about it, too.
33:17I never intended to hide it.
33:18The empress figured out my plan and came to plead with me not to risk it.
33:22But I wasn't about to let this chance slip.
33:24I've laid the groundwork for ages.
33:25All for this strike.
33:26Why would I back down now?
33:28To give the spy her chance.
33:30I always strolled the royal gardens.
33:32On the fifth day, my guards whispered the spy was ready to act.
33:36At dawn on the sixth day, I went to Mistwater Hall and lit incense before my mother's tablet.
33:40Mom, watch over me.
33:41Leaving the hall, I wandered into the royal gardens.
33:44This time, I brought only one maid and slipped deep into the rock grotto,
33:47offering the spy the perfect opening.
33:49In the heart of the rocks, a figure sprang forth, knife flashing toward me.
33:54In the heart of the rocks, a figure sprang forth, knife flashing toward me.
33:58I could have dodged, but let the blade land.
34:01Blocking with my arm.
34:02If I'd stayed unhurt, no one would think it's serious.
34:05The blade sliced across my arm.
34:06Spraying blood everywhere.
34:07Right then, several guards burst in.
34:09I had long been prepared.
34:10The spy was pinned in an instant.
34:12No need for grilling.
34:13The proof was airtight.
34:14His Majesty traced the trail, uncovering a web of Sutton's spies in the palace.
34:18Attempted murder of my consort.
34:19Their eyes fixed on my every move.
34:21All capital crimes.
34:22Sutton and his wife were arrested on the spot.
34:24Molly was sent to the cold palace.
34:26Sutton was no longer the man who stood above thousands.
34:29With evidence clear, his pupils and supporters scrambled to wash their hands.
34:35The case was ironclad.
34:36The court of judicial review took one day to reach its verdict.
34:39Mrs. Sutton took most of the blame and was sentenced to death.
34:42Mrs. Sutton took most of the blame and was sentenced to death.
34:45Thanks to his past merits, Stephen Sutton was only exiled.
34:49Molly was sent to the cold palace for hiding an assassin.
34:52Three days later, I went to the prison.
34:53Stephen Sutton was behind bars in prison rags, messy hair, covered in grime.
34:57A shadow of his former swagger.
34:59When he saw me, he sneered.
35:01I'm still alive.
35:02Does that break your heart?
35:03I chuckled.
35:04Not at all.
35:05I hope you stick around a few more years.
35:07You chased rank all your life and now you're just another inmate.
35:10That's the sweetest torture for you.
35:11My mom and I were locked up for 16 years.
35:13It's time you tasted that hell.
35:15He erupted.
35:16You bitch!
35:17Why the hell are you doing this to me?
35:18You think your mom saved me out of kindness?
35:21She only did it for herself.
35:22You think your mom saved me out of kindness?
35:25She only did it for herself.
35:26Even if she hadn't drawn the bandits away, they would have caught her sooner or later.
35:30That was not my fault.
35:32I laughed.
35:33Men like Stephen Sutton never admit their wrongs.
35:36You know better than I do what really happened, so why keep arguing?
35:39Enjoy the decades of hell that await you.
35:42With that, I turned and walked away.
35:43He howled in rage and despair behind me.
35:45I felt a fierce joy.
35:47Mom, I finally avenged you.
35:48Soon word spread.
35:49Lady Reed lay gravely wounded from the assassination attempt.
35:53The doctors could do nothing.
35:54Some whispered she would not survive.
35:56A few days later, the news came.
35:58Lady Reed was dead.
35:59At the same time, I stood in the house where mom and I once lived.
36:02His majesty had kept his word, allowing me to feign death and leave.
36:05Cradling mom's ashes, I gazed at the place we had called home for 16 years.
36:09Mom, we're free now.
36:10Stephen Sutton kept you caged your whole life.
36:12But now I'll take you to see the whole world.
36:13Mom, we're free now.
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