- 7 minutes ago
My Secret Son, My Royal Love
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🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00:05My name is Seiya. Three years ago, I was made a scapegoat and thrown into the imperial labor yard.
00:00:11It's not me! I committed no crime!
00:00:15It's not me! I committed no crime!
00:00:20Tomorrow is supposed to be the day I finally become free.
00:00:23But tonight, the moment I open my eyes, I see two corpses on the floor.
00:00:30Awake now? It was you.
00:00:32Standing before me is Mira, the co-worker I once saved.
00:00:37Don't blame me. Blame yourself for standing in someone else's way.
00:00:42So you locked me in with corpses and waited for the guards to arrest me?
00:00:45What else? You walk free tomorrow, and I keep rotting here!
00:00:49I look at her hysterical figure and suddenly smile.
00:00:52In the labor yard, softness never keeps anyone alive.
00:00:56Mira, you're wrong.
00:00:58The one dying tonight won't be me.
00:01:01In the next second, I grab a stool and smash it into the back of her neck.
00:01:05She drops.
00:01:06I dragged Mira and the two bodies into another room,
00:01:10hurried back, and wiped the blood from mine.
00:01:17Time to turn the table.
00:01:23When it is done, I go knock on Marta's door, the woman who supervises this labor yard.
00:01:34Saya?
00:01:35Why are you here in the middle of the night?
00:01:37Mira is gone.
00:01:38Gone.
00:01:39She was missing when I woke up.
00:01:41I thought something had happened to her.
00:01:42Marta has barely stood when frantic pounding erupts behind us.
00:01:45At that same moment, the guards storm in.
00:01:48Their leader is Cassius, commander of the Imperial Guard.
00:01:51Which one of you is Saya?
00:01:53I am.
00:01:55The door is broken open, and Mira is dragged out, covered in blood.
00:01:59Commander!
00:02:00It was her!
00:02:01Saya killed them and tried to frame me!
00:02:04If I killed them, why would I go looking for her at midnight?
00:02:08If she's innocent, why is she covered in blood?
00:02:12Mira, everyone in this labor yard saw how Saya protected you all these years.
00:02:16Enough.
00:02:17Slave Mira for murder and framing another slave.
00:02:21By law, you are to be beaten to death immediately.
00:02:25Saya!
00:02:26Save me!
00:02:28I look at her and say nothing.
00:02:30She wanted my life.
00:02:32Now she pays.
00:02:35The rods come down on Mira again and again.
00:02:37Saya!
00:02:38Save me!
00:02:41Aren't you always the one who helps me both?
00:02:43I stand there without moving.
00:02:45The last blow falls, and Mira goes silent forever.
00:02:50Take the body.
00:02:56Everyone disperses, and I stagger back to my room.
00:03:01But the moment the door closes, the grief vanishes from my face.
00:03:07I survive tonight.
00:03:10But I still have one last problem.
00:03:15I walk to the wardrobe and yank the door open.
00:03:19Come out.
00:03:20Inside sits a man.
00:03:22Purple trimmed robes.
00:03:23Strong muscles, but eyes as clean as a child's.
00:03:28Mother, you're back.
00:03:29I'm not your mother.
00:03:30I stare at his robe, and my heart sinks.
00:03:32In all of Rome, only royalty and the highest commanders wear colors like that.
00:03:37Who are you?
00:03:38Lucius.
00:03:39Lucius Dracus.
00:03:40Rome's youngest and most terrifying general.
00:03:53Mother, I'm hungry.
00:03:56I did not run into some ordinary madman.
00:03:58It is Lucius Dracus.
00:04:00Merciless by day, lost like a child by night.
00:04:03You want food?
00:04:04Fine.
00:04:05Tell me where you live first.
00:04:07The Dracus Palace.
00:04:14Mother doesn't like me anymore?
00:04:17I do.
00:04:20I can only soothe him for now and lead him to the kitchen.
00:04:28Mother, am I good?
00:04:29Yes.
00:04:31Then I'll give you a gift.
00:04:33He suddenly pulls out an ancient, exquisite bracelet and slips it onto my wrist.
00:04:37Wait.
00:04:38What is this?
00:04:39A gift for Mother.
00:04:40I can't take this.
00:04:41I tried desperately to remove it, but it won't come off.
00:04:46Seeing how much I dislike this bracelet, he immediately start looking sad.
00:04:52It's beautiful.
00:04:54Very beautiful.
00:04:58Only then's he satisfied and fall asleep hugging the food.
00:05:01I stare at the bracelet as my heartbeat quickens.
00:05:04If I don't run now, I truly won't live once he wakes.
00:05:15At first light, I rush towards the city gate.
00:05:18Once I get out, Lucius may never find me again.
00:05:21But before I can reach it, a black and gold war chariot comes straight towards me.
00:05:26At the reins is Kale, Lucius's most trusted lieutenant.
00:05:35Commander, shall we stop?
00:05:39Move on.
00:05:40The chariot does not stop.
00:05:42I walk out alive.
00:05:48But the moment I breathe easier, I am stopped.
00:05:51It is Moro, Lady Laya's most vicious hound.
00:05:55You little bitch.
00:05:57Your luck is impressive.
00:05:59What's wrong?
00:06:01Lady Laya failed to kill me?
00:06:03And now you're anxious?
00:06:05Leaving the palace won't save you for long.
00:06:07I turn back to him and suddenly smile.
00:06:10Go tell Lady Laya this.
00:06:12Since I walked out alive, I will never let anyone trample me again.
00:06:15I raise my thumb to him.
00:06:18Then slowly turn it downward.
00:06:28At that exact moment, a familiar noble carriage stops before me.
00:06:35The curtain lifts, revealing Severus Attius, my former betrothed, the man I once loved and now despise most.
00:06:42Get in.
00:06:44You came to take me back?
00:06:46You came to take me back?
00:06:46What else?
00:06:46For a moment, I almost lose myself in the illusion.
00:06:49But in the next second, his words stab me like knives.
00:06:53When you return, the first thing you do is apologize to Aurelia.
00:06:59What did you say?
00:07:00She is the true daughter of the Valerius family now.
00:07:03If you want back in, lower your head.
00:07:09So you're not here to take me home.
00:07:12You're here to take me to another hell.
00:07:15Seiya, stop being childish.
00:07:18Severus, how blind must I have been to ever love you?
00:07:22I turn and leave without looking back.
00:07:24Seiya!
00:07:24Don't regret this!
00:07:27From this moment on, even my last bit of attachment dies.
00:07:38After leaving, I knock on the only door still willing to shelter me.
00:07:46The one who opens the door is Helena.
00:07:49Seiya.
00:07:50My master's wife, and one of the few people who truly cared for me these past three years.
00:07:56Helena.
00:07:57She drags me inside at once and hurriedly calls Aurelius out.
00:08:02Aurelius is the man who taught me medicine.
00:08:05You're back.
00:08:05Sit down first.
00:08:11I thought I could hold myself together.
00:08:13But the moment I sit, I realize my whole body is trembling.
00:08:21Take off your clothes.
00:08:23Let me treat your wounds.
00:08:25She pulls back the cloth at my shoulder, and her hand starts shaking instantly.
00:08:31How could they do this to you?
00:08:34You did not come only to be treated, did you?
00:08:36Sir, I want to ask you something.
00:08:40If someone becomes like a completely different person by day and by night,
00:08:46what kind of illness is that?
00:08:48Aurelius's expression shifts.
00:08:51You've met someone like that?
00:08:53I only heard of such a thing.
00:08:56The less one knows about Lucius's secret, the longer they survive.
00:09:01That night, I move into the courtyard Aurelius arranged for me.
00:09:05I settle into this small courtyard, and think I might finally get one peaceful night.
00:09:14But the moment I close my eyes, I feel someone beside my bed.
00:09:18My eyes snap open.
00:09:20Squatting beside the bed is Lucius.
00:09:24Not the cold-blooded general from the day, but the nighttime fool who recognizes only me and comes only for
00:09:29me.
00:09:30Mother, you're finally awake.
00:09:32Why are you here?
00:09:38I came to find you.
00:09:39How did you find this place?
00:09:41I followed your scent.
00:09:43My heart sinks hard.
00:09:48Sweet and soft.
00:09:50Once I smell it, I just want to get close.
00:09:54Lucius, do you remember what you did during the day?
00:09:56I don't know.
00:09:58If he can always find me like this, I will never shake him off.
00:10:03Then do you remember last night in the kitchen?
00:10:05Yes.
00:10:06Mother ate with me.
00:10:07At last, I confirm it.
00:10:10Daytime Lucius and nighttime Lucius do not share memories at all.
00:10:17Since Lucius tracks me by scent, once I change it, he won't be able to find me again.
00:10:27Lucius, sleep first.
00:10:29Will you stay with me?
00:10:33Once you fall asleep, I'll stay.
00:10:37He obediently lies down.
00:10:41Early the next morning, Adrian brings the medicine.
00:10:44He also studies under Aurelius, and he is the only man still willing to help me openly now.
00:10:51You're really going to drink it?
00:10:53If it keeps me alive, I can endure any pain.
00:10:59I tilt my head back and swallow it in one go.
00:11:02The next second, it feels as if my insides are burning.
00:11:07I collapse to the floor, curling up as cold sweat soaks my clothes.
00:11:12At the same time, Lucius wakes at his own room, staring at the coarse handkerchief in his hand as his
00:11:17face darkens.
00:11:18This is not mine.
00:11:21Commander, I'll investigate at once.
00:11:24Someone came into contact with me while I was in that state.
00:11:28Find them.
00:11:30Kill them.
00:11:31Just as the pain turns my vision black, there is suddenly a knock outside.
00:11:39People from the Valerius family have found this place!
00:11:44The man who comes is Marcus Valerius, the eldest son of the Valerius family and one of the people who
00:11:48crushed me hardest these past years.
00:11:50I haven't even recovered from the agony tearing through me when he storms in with his men.
00:11:53Sayah, you really know how to hide.
00:11:56Get out!
00:11:57He slaps me hard across the face without a word.
00:12:04You still dare throw a tantrum?
00:12:08Marcus, you have no right to touch me.
00:12:10No right?
00:12:11The Valerius family raised you for 14 years!
00:12:14So what?
00:12:15That means I should die in Aurelia's place?
00:12:17Marcus stiffens for a second, then his face hardens again.
00:12:22You're coming back.
00:12:23By the time we reach the Valerius estate, Livia is already standing at the entrance.
00:12:29Livia is the woman who raised me, and the one who pushed me out with her own hands.
00:12:37Sayah, you're finally back home.
00:12:40This is not my home.
00:12:42Your grandmother is gravely ill.
00:12:45She's been calling for you.
00:12:46My heart clenches at once.
00:12:49Grandmother, what happened?
00:12:53Go see her.
00:12:59The person I fear seeing most is not Gaius, nor Livia.
00:13:03It is Grandmother.
00:13:04In this house, she is the only one who ever really loved me.
00:13:08Sayah, is my Sayah really back?
00:13:12Grandmother, I'm back.
00:13:13She grabs my hand, and tears fall at once.
00:13:20My child, you've suffered.
00:13:23I'm fine.
00:13:24Your skin and bones, and you still say you're fine.
00:13:28At that moment, Aurelia walks in too.
00:13:31She is the true daughter of the Valerius family.
00:13:34The one who took everything that used to be mine.
00:13:37Grandmother, let me stay and dine with you too.
00:13:40No need.
00:13:42Go be with your parents.
00:13:44The smile on Aurelia's face nearly cracks.
00:13:52Sayah, do you still care for that boy, Severus?
00:13:57I don't.
00:13:58He doesn't deserve me.
00:13:59Grandmother pauses, then smiles.
00:14:01Good.
00:14:02That's my Sayah.
00:14:07The moment I step outside, Aurelia blocks my path.
00:14:14Aurelia's eyes are red, as if she has suffered some terrible wrong.
00:14:18What she does best is play the innocent flower.
00:14:21Sayah, I'm sorry.
00:14:22For what exactly?
00:14:24Three years ago, I was too afraid.
00:14:26So you watched me go die in your place?
00:14:29Sayah, can you forgive me?
00:14:31No.
00:14:32The softness on her face nearly slips.
00:14:36Grandmother is already so ill.
00:14:38Please stop making this house restless.
00:14:40Am I really the one making this house restless?
00:14:45The moment I finish speaking, she grabs my sleeve and throws herself backward.
00:14:50The next second, she falls straight into the pond.
00:14:53Help!
00:14:54Sayah pushed Miss Valerius into the water!
00:14:56I stand where I am, expression unchanged.
00:14:58She never gets tired of this trick.
00:15:05Marcus rushes over at the noise.
00:15:08Murder in his eyes.
00:15:17Sayah!
00:15:18You hurt her again!
00:15:20I never touched her.
00:15:22I saw it with my own eyes!
00:15:25Then you're blind.
00:15:27Marcus does not listen at all.
00:15:28He grabs my wrist and drags me straight to the pond.
00:15:34Marcus, let go!
00:15:37Marcus, don't blame her.
00:15:39The more pitiful she sounds, the madder Marcus becomes.
00:15:42Then today I'll teach you a lesson for Aurelia!
00:15:44He shoves me straight into the water.
00:15:46I barely surface before he presses my head back under.
00:15:49Ice cold water floods my mouth and nose, my lungs feeling carved apart.
00:15:54Through the water, I see Severus on the bank.
00:15:56He is exactly the same as three years ago, standing by and watching coldly.
00:16:01Marcus!
00:16:02Stop!
00:16:03Marcus finally drags me out.
00:16:08Sayah, why can't you behave for once?
00:16:13The coldest thing is not the water on my skin.
00:16:16It is that one sentence.
00:16:20That night, Adrian brings me word.
00:16:24Word from the palace is that Lady Lyra wants Gaius to marry a daughter into the Serenus family.
00:16:30Cassian Serenus?
00:16:34That's him.
00:16:36Cassian, the most notorious madman in Rome.
00:16:39No woman who falls into his hands comes out whole.
00:16:43Isn't Aurelia already engaged to Severus?
00:16:46Exactly.
00:16:47That's why they remembered you.
00:16:49I fall silent.
00:16:51Of course.
00:16:53They brought me back so I could die in Aurelia's place.
00:16:56If you want to leave, I can arrange it now.
00:17:01I can't.
00:17:06Because of your grandmother?
00:17:11Yes.
00:17:19At dinner, I seize a roast chicken and tear into it.
00:17:27Have you no manners at all?
00:17:29In the labor yard, those who eat slowly does not even get bones.
00:17:33As I speak, I yank back my sleeve and expose the scars all over my arm.
00:17:38When they pushed me into hell, they never felt guilty.
00:17:42Yet when I lay my wounds before them, they cannot even look.
00:17:45Enough!
00:17:45Gaius is the head of the Valerius family.
00:17:47A man who values family interests above everything.
00:17:50Enough?
00:17:51I'm not finished.
00:17:55Sia, I know you were wrong.
00:17:57Stop!
00:17:58Livia's face goes pale.
00:17:59Three years ago, it was you who pushed me out there yourself.
00:18:03And now you want to hand me to Cassian.
00:18:05Sia, we never...
00:18:06Shut up!
00:18:07Sia, don't go too far!
00:18:12I grab a broken pottery shard and press it to my throat.
00:18:19Sia, don't go!
00:18:21Then let me die.
00:18:26If I die now, what will you hand over to the Saranus family?
00:18:30Gaius finally falls silent.
00:18:32From today on, I come and go as I please.
00:18:36If anyone touches me again, I'll drag all of you into the grave with me.
00:18:43That very night, the first fool who learns nothing comes from me.
00:18:49I already knew Marcus would never swallow that humiliation.
00:18:52So tonight, I never sleep at all.
00:18:56I am waiting for him.
00:18:58Sure enough, at midnight, the door is quietly pushed open.
00:19:09Sia, you're asking to die.
00:19:11He creeps toward the bed with a club in the end.
00:19:13But when the club comes down, the body in bed is only blankets.
00:19:17I step out from behind him, looking for me?
00:19:20And me.
00:19:22Livia steps out too.
00:19:23She was once my personal maid, and she still stands on my side.
00:19:27We lunge from both sides.
00:19:29Livia throws a sack over his head, and I start swinging.
00:19:36That's for forcing me under the water.
00:19:39And that's for helping them throw me away three years ago.
00:19:47A moment later, Leah and I throw his bruised body straight out the window.
00:19:55Was there a rat last night?
00:19:57I heard noises.
00:20:01Yes, Grandmother.
00:20:03A very big one.
00:20:07When I go to fetch medicine for Grandmother, I run into Lucius in his daytime state.
00:20:12By day, he is as cold as an iceberg.
00:20:17Commander.
00:20:18Physician Rufus has not arrived yet.
00:20:21Then we wait.
00:20:22I lower my head and turn to leave.
00:20:24Stop.
00:20:34Commander.
00:20:36Look at me.
00:20:38I have no choice but to obey.
00:20:40He stares at me, his gaze moving from my face down to my neck.
00:20:49The scent on you.
00:20:51In the next second, he leans closer as if to smell me.
00:20:59What are you doing?
00:21:01My hand lands on his face before I can stop myself.
00:21:05Insolent!
00:21:05K.L. draws his sword on the spot.
00:21:09Stand down.
00:21:14Commander.
00:21:16I said, stand down.
00:21:18The clinic falls into a terrifying silence.
00:21:21Are you afraid of me?
00:21:25Yes.
00:21:27Good.
00:21:30I thought that slap would earn me death, but Lucius does not kill me.
00:21:34He simply begins investigating me.
00:21:37He simply begins investigating me.
00:21:37Say a Valeria.
00:21:39She is the adopted daughter of the Valerius family.
00:21:42Three years ago, she took the blame for Aurelia and was sent to the labor yard.
00:21:48She was only recently released.
00:21:52She knows medicine.
00:21:53She studied under Aurelia.
00:21:58Who is around her?
00:21:59Her maid, Leah, and the physician Adrian.
00:22:04Lucius taps the desk lightly, his expression turning darker.
00:22:10Her scent calms me.
00:22:13That is not a coincidence.
00:22:16Elsewhere, Emperor Caesar notices Lucius' change as well.
00:22:19Caesar is Lucius' elder brother.
00:22:21Your temper has been milder lately.
00:22:23You imagine too much.
00:22:30Then I suppose I imagine that handprint on your face too.
00:22:36Lucius falls silent.
00:22:40I thought that after the pawn drama, Aurelia would keep quiet for at least two days.
00:22:45I underestimated her again.
00:22:47What she does best is not simply playing the victim.
00:22:50It is using herself as a weapon.
00:22:52That day, just after leaving Grandmother's room, I hear screams inside.
00:22:57Help!
00:22:58Miss Valerius has hanged herself!
00:23:00By the time I arrive, she is already saved, sobbing as if she can barely breathe.
00:23:07Aurelia, what are you doing?
00:23:11I shouldn't be alive.
00:23:13Don't say such things.
00:23:14Grandmother said it would be better if I wasn't here.
00:23:21I understand at once.
00:23:23She overheard Grandmother and came back to frame me.
00:23:26Did Saia drive you to this?
00:23:29She didn't.
00:23:30It's my fault.
00:23:33The more she says it, the more Marcus believes it.
00:23:37If she truly wanted to die, she wouldn't choose a time when all of you were here.
00:23:45Saia, you vicious woman!
00:23:47I see the hatred in his eyes and know he won't let this end here.
00:23:52I no longer expect anything from this family.
00:23:55But even so, I do not expect Marcus to strike again so soon.
00:23:59That day, I have just left Grandmother's room when a sharp pain explodes in the back of my head at
00:24:03the garden corner.
00:24:04I touch the back of my head, and my hand comes away covered in blood.
00:24:08Marcus!
00:24:09This is what you get for hurting Aurelia again and again!
00:24:13I hurt her?
00:24:14You should never have come back!
00:24:15Just then, Livia rushes over.
00:24:17Marcus!
00:24:18Only then does Marcus lower his arm.
00:24:23What happened to Saia?
00:24:24She fell by herself.
00:24:26And you're going to say the same?
00:24:29You should head back.
00:24:32No physician?
00:24:33She avoids my eyes.
00:24:35It is not that she didn't see.
00:24:37She simply chooses ignorance.
00:24:39I am sent back to my room, and the door is soon locked from the outside.
00:24:45Miss!
00:24:45You're bleeding so much!
00:24:47Help me with my wound.
00:24:50After simply treating the wound, I lie down on the bed and fall asleep.
00:24:55As night deepens, fever takes hold, and my consciousness begins to blur.
00:25:03Just as I am about to lose consciousness, the window is suddenly pushed open from outside.
00:25:11I am burning with fever, too weak to even open my eyes.
00:25:15But the moment the window opens, I still catch that familiar scent.
00:25:19It is Lucius.
00:25:20Mother, what happened to you?
00:25:22He crouches beside my bed, feels the sweat on me, and the blood at the back of my head, and
00:25:27his eyes change at once.
00:25:28Who hurt you?
00:25:29Don't kill anyone.
00:25:31Murderous fury surges through him, as if he might tear everyone in this house apart the next second.
00:25:37They all deserve to die.
00:25:40Lucius, be good.
00:25:41I am barely conscious from the fever, yet I still grip his hand tightly.
00:25:45Does it hurt, mother?
00:25:47It does.
00:25:48To my surprise, he slowly calms down, takes out medicine, and carefully applies it to my wound.
00:25:53Before I pass out, I remember only one thing.
00:25:56He guards me the whole night.
00:26:00The next morning, when I open my eyes the next morning, I realize I'm lying on someone's arm.
00:26:06I look up and meet Lucius' face, but this time, it is not the clingy fool from the night.
00:26:11It is Lucius after he has woken clear-minded.
00:26:14You're awake?
00:26:14He looks down at me, then at the arm I have numbed, and his whole body freezes.
00:26:18Why am I here?
00:26:19That is what I should ask you.
00:26:21He is about to speak when footsteps sound outside.
00:26:24I'm coming in!
00:26:25Lucius' gaze turns cold, and he slips behind the door in an instant.
00:26:29Don't!
00:26:31The door opens, and before Leah can understand what she sees, she is struck unconscious.
00:26:38Lucius!
00:26:40She saw me.
00:26:41She's mine!
00:26:43He glances at Leah on the floor, then at me, and for the first time, a rare trace of embarrassment
00:26:48flickers in his eyes.
00:26:49She's not dead.
00:26:51Then he climbs out the window, leaving behind only one sentence.
00:26:54You are not to speak of last night.
00:26:59The wound at the back of my head has barely begun to heal, and the Valerius family is already plotting
00:27:04again.
00:27:04This time, the unlucky one is Livia.
00:27:06That day, Lady Laia summons her into the palace.
00:27:09When she is carried back, she is already unconscious.
00:27:13Gaius keeps delaying handing me over, so Lady Laia decides to deliver a warning first.
00:27:18Mother!
00:27:20Fetch the physician!
00:27:22I stand in the doorway, see the lash marks on her back, and suddenly smile.
00:27:26Does it hurt?
00:27:28You...
00:27:30You took only a few lashes, and you're already like this?
00:27:33I took countless strikes for three whole years in the labor yard.
00:27:39Sayah, enough!
00:27:41Why should I?
00:27:43Aren't you always saying it is all for the family?
00:27:47Now that it is her turn to suffer a little for the family, why can't she endure it?
00:27:52Livia looks at me, and for the first time there is real hatred in her eyes.
00:27:57But I never expect Gaius' next move will be to turn the knife towards Grandmother.
00:28:04That day, I am about to go see Grandmother when Gaius stops me.
00:28:11You may not enter.
00:28:12Move.
00:28:13Mother is like this because of you.
00:28:15Because of me?
00:28:18Was I the one who forced her to beg everywhere to save me, or the one who forced you to
00:28:23use
00:28:23me as a scapegoat?
00:28:24Gaius' face turns ugly, but he still blocks the way.
00:28:28Mother still has not handed certain things over.
00:28:31What things?
00:28:33Do not ask what is not your concern.
00:28:36My heart sinks.
00:28:37He is not worried about Grandmother.
00:28:38He is squeezing a sick old woman for the last bit of value she still holds.
00:28:43Gaius, you disgust me.
00:28:44Suddenly, violent coughing erupts from inside the room.
00:28:48Lady Demisha is coughing blood!
00:28:50I shove Gaius aside and rush inside.
00:28:55Grandmother on the bed looks ashen, blood staining the corner of her lips.
00:28:59Grandmother!
00:29:00But when Grandmother wakes, her first words leave everyone stunned.
00:29:07Grandmother wakes up.
00:29:09But when she looks at the room full of people, her eyes are filled with unfamiliarity.
00:29:15Who are all of you?
00:29:17The room falls silent.
00:29:19Mother, it's me, Livia.
00:29:22Livia?
00:29:24Do I know you?
00:29:26Mother, it's me, Gaius.
00:29:30Since when did I have a son?
00:29:32At that moment, Physician Rufus steps forward to examine her.
00:29:36He is a court physician, and also one of the men who treats Lucius.
00:29:43She suffered too great a shock.
00:29:45Her memory is disordered.
00:29:46In other words, Grandmother has lost her memory.
00:29:49But just as everyone begins to panic, she suddenly grabs my hand.
00:29:53Saya, don't be afraid.
00:29:55Grandmother is here.
00:29:56I freeze.
00:29:57She cannot clearly remember things, yet she still recognizes me.
00:30:00Grandmother, it's me, Aurelia.
00:30:03Out.
00:30:05Aurelia's face turns ugly in an instant.
00:30:07And for the first time, I finally breathe easier.
00:30:12Saya, close the door.
00:30:15Alright.
00:30:16After losing her memory, Grandmother becomes even more direct than before.
00:30:20I close the door, and she pulls a small box from beneath her pillow.
00:30:24This is for you.
00:30:26What is it?
00:30:28Wedding gift.
00:30:30I open it and find property deeds, silver coins, and a few family seals.
00:30:33Grandmother is handing over the last of her hidden fortune to me.
00:30:36Grandmother, this is too much!
00:30:39If not you, should I leave it to that pack of wolves?
00:30:43My eyes burn.
00:30:48Saya, remember this.
00:30:50Everyone may betray you.
00:30:53You must never betray yourself.
00:31:05I have barely left Grandmother's room when I hear Cassian has cornered Marcus in the street.
00:31:13Cassian is a madman, but an interesting one.
00:31:16He knows exactly where to stab to hurt the most.
00:31:18That day, he stops Marcus in the street.
00:31:20Well, if it isn't the noble son of the Valerius family.
00:31:24Move.
00:31:28I hear your family is already deciding which daughter to send to me.
00:31:33Shut up!
00:31:34Cassian deliberately lets his gaze sweep over Aurelia.
00:31:36Oh?
00:31:37And which daughter did you choose?
00:31:39This one?
00:31:41Or the other one?
00:31:42How dare you!
00:31:44Why so angry?
00:31:46Who knows?
00:31:47Maybe your turn will come too.
00:31:49Marcus's eyes turn red instantly, and he throws a punch.
00:31:53But he wasted too much of the last three years, and is no match for Cassian.
00:31:59Within moments, he is pinned to the ground and beaten.
00:32:02Stop!
00:32:05Severus rushes in to help, only to be kicked back by Cassian.
00:32:08When I hear what happened, only one thought remains in my mind.
00:32:13Tonight, I am going to find Cassian.
00:32:19I am not someone who swallows humiliation forever.
00:32:22Sometimes, revenge just needs the right moment.
00:32:24Tonight, the timing is perfect.
00:32:26Are you really going?
00:32:29Yes.
00:32:31That madman has plenty of guards.
00:32:37I am not going there to reason with him.
00:32:41I put on dark clothes, cover my face, and slip over the courtyard wall.
00:32:48Rome at night is far better suited for wicked deeds than Rome by day.
00:32:56Cassian, half drunk, is escorted back to his villa by his men.
00:33:00Haha, that useless Marcus dared raise a hand against me.
00:33:07I rush out of the alley, throw my cloak over his head, and kick hard.
00:33:14Who's there?
00:33:17The last person you should ever provoke.
00:33:20I kick only where it hurts most, and Cassian writhes on the ground.
00:33:23Guards! Guards!
00:33:30But before his men can get close, another foot suddenly swings in from behind me.
00:33:35That kick is even harder than mine.
00:33:37I turn around and see Lucius.
00:33:43I never imagined that a midnight ambush on Cassian would come with a partner,
00:33:47and that partner would be Lucius.
00:33:48In his unstable state, he smiles like a child gone wild.
00:33:51I don't like this man.
00:33:53Neither do I.
00:33:53Then let's kick him more.
00:33:55With that, he stomps down hard.
00:33:57I nearly laugh aloud.
00:33:59The mighty general of Rome is actually helping me beat a man senseless in the middle of the night.
00:34:06Lucius, enough.
00:34:08If we keep going, real trouble will start.
00:34:12Mother, you're so bad.
00:34:14I like it.
00:34:16Shut up and run.
00:34:18Cassian's guards finally react, and the two of us turn and run.
00:34:21Why are they chasing us?
00:34:22Because you beat someone.
00:34:25But Mother beat him too.
00:34:27Exactly why we're running together.
00:34:30But deep inside, something feels wrong.
00:34:32It feels like tonight won't end here.
00:34:35I take Lucius through a long detour and finally shake off the pursuers.
00:34:39He leans against a wall like an overexcited dog tired from play,
00:34:43but his eyes are frighteningly bright.
00:34:44Mother, can we do that again next time?
00:34:46There is no next time.
00:34:50But I had fun.
00:34:52I didn't.
00:34:54At that, he somehow looks a little aggrieved.
00:34:57I am about to coax him away when a scream suddenly echoes in the distance.
00:35:00My heart jolts hard.
00:35:02Isn't that the alley we just left?
00:35:04Lucius, we're leaving.
00:35:05I do not turn back.
00:35:07But the next day, all of Rome explodes with news.
00:35:11They say Cassian was crippled last night.
00:35:16Crippled?
00:35:18Yes.
00:35:19The Serenus family is convinced Marcus did it.
00:35:23I slowly smile.
00:35:24Now the Valerius family is going to get very busy.
00:35:27And I know this chaos is only just beginning.
00:35:31The very next day after Cassian is ruined,
00:35:34the Serenus family storms our gates carrying him in.
00:35:36He lies on a litter, pale as paper,
00:35:38yet his eyes are more vicious than a rabid hound's.
00:35:40Gaius, your son ruined my son.
00:35:44How do you intend to settle this debt?
00:35:46This matter is not yet fully investigated.
00:35:50Investigate what?
00:35:52Marcus's ring was left right there at the scene.
00:35:55The hall falls into dead silence.
00:35:58So my dear brother had quite the busy night.
00:36:00It wasn't me!
00:36:01Then let's settle another business.
00:36:03With that, he throws a marriage contract onto the table.
00:36:07Before the ives of April, send Saya to me.
00:36:10Aurelia freezes for a moment,
00:36:11and a flash of relief darts through her eyes.
00:36:13Father, if this gets out,
00:36:15what will the Atias family think of me?
00:36:18What is it?
00:36:20Isn't this exactly what you wanted?
00:36:23I turn to look at Gaius.
00:36:24He avoids my gaze and presses his hand down on the contract.
00:36:28I watch him sign my name and suddenly smile.
00:36:31Fine.
00:36:32Then let's see who falls first.
00:36:37The moment the contract is signed,
00:36:39Livia slips right back into her role as the loving mother.
00:36:42Saya, we have no choice.
00:36:45Don't disgust me.
00:36:46Someone has to go calm Cassian.
00:36:50So you want me to sacrifice again?
00:36:52Nothing bad will happen.
00:36:54When she says it, she does not even believe herself.
00:36:57The next day, I am still sent up into the carriage.
00:37:00Once outside the city, the carriage rolls toward a remote villa.
00:37:08Livia, you really never change your methods.
00:37:11Go in.
00:37:12Don't make this harder for me.
00:37:13Hard for you?
00:37:14You seem very practiced at this.
00:37:16By the time I step down,
00:37:17guards have already sealed the perimeter.
00:37:20I push the door open,
00:37:22and Cassian lounges above me like a snake watching its prey.
00:37:30Say, you finally decided to come see me.
00:37:32I did not decide to.
00:37:37I was delivered by a pack of bastards.
00:37:47Cassian's greatest talent is not madness.
00:37:49It is driving others mad.
00:37:51Come here.
00:37:53Dream on.
00:37:54He does not get angry.
00:37:56He simply signals to the side.
00:37:58Two guards pin me down at once.
00:38:01Let go of me!
00:38:06The more stubbornly you refuse to bow,
00:38:08the more I want to ruin you.
00:38:14He picks up a barbed whip and strolls toward me.
00:38:17This lash is for me.
00:38:19Cloth tears, and blood wells up instantly.
00:38:26This one is for the normal half of my life that was taken from me.
00:38:33I bite my lip hard, refusing to cry out.
00:38:35Scream.
00:38:38You think you deserve that?
00:38:41He pauses, then laughs even more wildly.
00:38:49I like that mouth of yours.
00:38:51Each lash grows harsher than the last until my whole body goes numb with pain.
00:38:54But what I remember is not the pain.
00:38:56It is the debt.
00:38:57By nightfall, he finally grows bored.
00:39:02I crawl in through the gate by myself.
00:39:04Blood drips from my skirts, drawing a long crimson trail.
00:39:11And in the main hall, they are having dinner.
00:39:19I'm back.
00:39:21The clink of knives and silver plates stops at once.
00:39:24Saya?
00:39:26How did you...
00:39:35What's it?
00:39:36You did not expect me to come back alive.
00:39:39I walk in step by step, blood dripping to the floor.
00:39:41Someone, take her back to her room.
00:39:45Now you want to help me?
00:39:47Too late.
00:39:49My thanks to all of you for finding me such a splendid marriage.
00:39:54Livia's lips tremble, but no words come out.
00:39:56My vision blacks out, and I collapse.
00:39:59When I awaken again, I hear Gaius' cold voice outside the door.
00:40:03Lock the door.
00:40:04Withdraw the physician, too.
00:40:15I did not die, but Gaius clearly wishes I had.
00:40:18Wake up.
00:40:19I force my eyes open and see Leah with tears all over her face.
00:40:24The door?
00:40:25Locked.
00:40:26The physician?
00:40:27Your father forbade it.
00:40:28I let out a small laugh, which pulls at my wounds and makes me hiss in pain.
00:40:31Of course.
00:40:32They fed me to a beast and still think I am dying too slowly.
00:40:36I'll climb out and fetch Adrian.
00:40:38Don't!
00:40:41But you'll die.
00:40:45If you go out, you'll die first.
00:40:48I close my eyes, every wound on my back burning like fire.
00:40:51But more than pain, I feel clarity.
00:40:53Cassian, Gaius, Livia.
00:40:55Not one of these debts will go unpaid.
00:40:57Please don't die.
00:40:58I won't die, at least not by their hands.
00:41:02Deep into the night, a shadow suddenly lands outside the window.
00:41:07The moment the window opens, I think it is an assassin.
00:41:11But the next second, I catch that familiar scent.
00:41:14Lucius.
00:41:15Mother.
00:41:16Why are you here again?
00:41:17The moment he sees my body covered in wounds, something in his eyes changes instantly.
00:41:23Who did this?
00:41:24None of your concern.
00:41:26They should die.
00:41:29He turns to leave at once.
00:41:31Stop!
00:41:32He stops at once and looks back at me.
00:41:35If you lose control here, I'll never see you again.
00:41:39He watches me for a few seconds and actually comes back.
00:41:45I won't kill.
00:41:48He takes medicine from his robe and awkwardly tends my wounds.
00:41:53Why do you always come looking for me?
00:41:55Because when I find mother, I don't hurt anymore.
00:41:58Something tightens strangely in my chest.
00:42:02The next day, Gaius comes with a burial shroud, funeral oils, and cypress branches to collect my corpse.
00:42:11When I hear the courtyard gate open, I nearly laugh aloud.
00:42:15They actually thought I would die that easily.
00:42:17Open the door.
00:42:19Deal with it quickly.
00:42:21Don't make a spectacle.
00:42:25The moment the door opens, I am sitting on the swing.
00:42:29White dress, loose hair, pale face.
00:42:34Like something freshly risen from a coffin.
00:42:40She stumbles back.
00:42:46How are you still alive?
00:42:49What is it?
00:42:51Disappointed?
00:42:53Pity.
00:42:55I'm still alive.
00:42:57The servants all go pale, not daring even to raise their heads.
00:43:02Sayah, stop this ghostly nonsense!
00:43:05The moment I rise from the swing, only one thought remains in my mind.
00:43:11I do not merely want to live.
00:43:14I want them to start paying.
00:43:19I use the medicine Lucius left behind.
00:43:23At last, my wounds no longer tear open at the slightest movement.
00:43:29Which means I can strike now.
00:43:33Who will you strike first?
00:43:40Marcus.
00:43:42He always loved using his strength to crush me.
00:43:49Then I'll destroy the thing he is proudest of first.
00:43:57I tell Leah to bring Adrian to me.
00:44:09So you finally decided to strike back?
00:44:12Not finally.
00:44:15It is simply time.
00:44:21What do you want done?
00:44:24I want Marcus ruined.
00:44:27Adrian studies me in silence for a moment.
00:44:35Good.
00:44:38Then we make sure he can never hold the blade he loves again.
00:44:44I slowly lean back in my chair.
00:44:48From today onward, I will no longer be the one pushed around.
00:45:01At first light the next morning, Valerius' family erupts into chaos.
00:45:10Disaster!
00:45:11Marcus is hurt!
00:45:12By the time I arrive, the courtyard is already in complete uproar.
00:45:27I step inside and see Marcus clutching his lower abdomen, sweat soaking his face.
00:45:33Whatever happened to my dear brother?
00:45:37Saia, was it you?
00:45:39Me?
00:45:44I've been so injured these past days I could barely stand.
00:45:48He glares at me, his eyes red with hatred.
00:45:52That part has been badly damaged.
00:45:56From now on, I fear, he may never be as he once was.
00:46:02Gaius' face turns white in an instant.
00:46:05The proud son of the Valerius family is ruined.
00:46:10What a pity.
00:46:12Just as the room descends into chaos, a servant rushes in with news.
00:46:15Lucius has personally escorted Grandmother home from her walk outside.
00:46:21When Lucius arrives, Grandmother is leaning comfortably against his back.
00:46:26Everyone in the hall goes still with shock.
00:46:30Slowly, my dear grandson-in-law-to-be.
00:46:32These old bones of mine won't survive a fall.
00:46:37Demetria, what are you saying?
00:46:39How am I wrong?
00:46:40This one is good.
00:46:41Far better to look at than that Attius boy.
00:46:44Lucius behaves as if he heard nothing and gently sets Grandmother down.
00:46:49It is an honor for the Valerius family that you personally escorted my mother home.
00:46:54I met her on the road.
00:46:56It's just a small favor.
00:46:58Yet when he says it, his eyes settle on me.
00:47:01Saya.
00:47:02Commander.
00:47:04Come to my residence tomorrow.
00:47:06For what?
00:47:07To cook.
00:47:08The hall falls silent again.
00:47:12Does the commander's estate have no cooks?
00:47:14It does.
00:47:15Then why-
00:47:16I want only hers.
00:47:18Something tightens slightly in my chest.
00:47:23Lucius has begun to draw me openly to his side.
00:47:28I wanted to stay away from Lucius, but he gave me a reason I could not refuse.
00:47:32To cook for him.
00:47:33The next day, I still step into Dracus' house.
00:47:36Waiting for me at the gate is Kale, Lucius' most trusted and most difficult right hand.
00:47:40The commander is waiting inside.
00:47:43Does he normally summon people this way just for a meal?
00:47:47No.
00:47:49Then I must be honored.
00:47:52I enter the kitchen, and Lucius stands by the door watching me.
00:47:57What can you make?
00:47:58What does the commander want?
00:48:02Something I can actually swallow.
00:48:04My hands pause for a beat.
00:48:06So that's it.
00:48:08He doesn't want a meal.
00:48:09He wants to test me.
00:48:10Then you are fortunate today.
00:48:12I deliberately make the simplest, most familiar dishes.
00:48:16The moment the aroma rises, something shifts in Lucius' eyes.
00:48:20You used to cook often?
00:48:22In the labor yard, those who cannot cook starve first.
00:48:26He goes silent for a moment, then lifts his utensils.
00:48:31He takes the first bite and doesn't stop.
00:48:34Commander, shall I have another portion served?
00:48:37Yes.
00:48:39Watching him, I realize something for the first time.
00:48:42To Lucius, I am no longer merely someone suspicious.
00:48:50Lucius makes me come three days in a row.
00:48:53By the third day, I am certain this is not a whim.
00:48:55He is testing me, and also getting used to my presence.
00:48:58I am going to the temple today to pray.
00:49:00You're coming with me.
00:49:01Grandmother, you're not well enough yet.
00:49:03Which is why I should go.
00:49:07The temple is crowded inside and out.
00:49:11The Valerius family is there.
00:49:13And Lucius is there too.
00:49:15Sayah, you are truly fortunate these days.
00:49:18Even the commander spares you extra glances now.
00:49:21If you envy me that much, go stand before him yourself.
00:49:25Aurelia's face stiffens.
00:49:27By dusk, I settle Grandmother into her room and plan to rest early.
00:49:32But the moment the wind stirs outside my window,
00:49:35I know the night won't be peaceful.
00:49:37Sure enough, the window is pushed open.
00:49:42Mother.
00:49:43It is Lucius in his night state.
00:49:45But this time, his eyes do not look like a child's anymore.
00:49:50Lucius is very wrong tonight.
00:49:53He looks at me like a wounded wolf, barely restraining itself.
00:49:58Lucius, stop.
00:49:59I feel bad.
00:50:01Where?
00:50:01Everywhere.
00:50:02As he speaks, he advances step by step.
00:50:04I retreat to the wall until I can retreat no more.
00:50:07Calm down first.
00:50:09I can't.
00:50:10He seizes my hand and presses it to his chest.
00:50:13His heartbeat is wild and fast, as if it may burst apart.
00:50:17You're burning up?
00:50:19Mother, don't avoid me.
00:50:21I'm not.
00:50:22Before the words fully leave me, he suddenly lowers his head and bites into my shoulder.
00:50:28Ouch!
00:50:29Lucius!
00:50:30Pain flashes white behind my eyes, but after the bite, he seems calmer, resting his forehead
00:50:36against me, breath shaking.
00:50:39Don't leave me.
00:50:40I should push him away.
00:50:41Yet in that moment, I do not move.
00:50:43The next morning, daytime, Lucius sees the bite mark on my shoulder, and his gaze changes
00:50:49completely.
00:50:52The mark on my shoulder cannot be hidden, so when Lucius sees it, I am not surprised
00:50:56at all.
00:50:57You're hurt.
00:50:58I bumped into something.
00:50:59What kind of bump leaves a bite like that?
00:51:01My heart tightens, but my face remains calm.
00:51:04Since when do you know how to assess injuries?
00:51:06I don't, but I recognize this.
00:51:08When he says recognize, his gaze turns frighteningly deep.
00:51:11He stares at me for a long time, then says nothing and leaves.
00:51:14That night, when I return to my room, a small box is waiting on the table.
00:51:20Inside is the finest salve.
00:51:21No name, no note, but I know exactly who sent it.
00:51:26He suspects me, yet he cannot bring himself to truly move against me.
00:51:31When Severus comes, I'm not surprised at all.
00:51:34He is always like this, silent when he should step forward, then full of noble words once
00:51:39everything has already rotted through.
00:51:41Saya, I want to speak with you alone.
00:51:43I don't.
00:51:44How long are you going to keep this up?
00:51:46Are you here to reason with me, or teach me obedience again?
00:51:52I only think you don't need to drive yourself to the edge.
00:51:56And who exactly do you think drove me here?
00:51:59He is left speechless.
00:52:01Severus, your greatest talent, has always been standing on the wrong side.
00:52:05Just as he reaches for me, a voice colder than ice sounds behind him.
00:52:10Stay away from her.
00:52:12Lucius has arrived.
00:52:13Commander, this is between her and me.
00:52:15Before he finishes, Lucius kicks him straight to his knees.
00:52:19What concerns her is not yours to touch.
00:52:23Watching Severus kneel there in humiliation, I feel nothing but satisfaction.
00:52:28But at that very same moment, trouble erupts elsewhere.
00:52:41The one meant to be taken was me.
00:52:42I know Livia and the Serenus family have already laid a trap in secret.
00:52:46They want to send me into Cassian's hands and end the problem for good.
00:52:49But Aurelia steps straight into it instead.
00:52:51That night, Livia sends word that Grandmother left something behind in the side hall and wants me to fetch it
00:52:56myself.
00:52:56I'm just about to go when Aurelia suddenly blocks my path.
00:52:59Grandmother sees only you now.
00:53:01This time, I'll go in your place.
00:53:03I want to see whether Grandmother truly sees only you.
00:53:06With that, she snatches the cloak from my hands and turns away.
00:53:13That cloak is the very one Livia had forced on me moments earlier.
00:53:17I stand still.
00:53:19And suddenly something inside me turns cold.
00:53:23Half an hour later, Aurelia's scream tears across the mountain path.
00:53:29The one meant to be abducted was me.
00:53:32The cloak, the side hall, the night path.
00:53:36Every trap had been set for me.
00:53:37Yet in the end, the one who walked straight into it was Aurelia.
00:53:42Let me go.
00:53:42You've got the wrong woman.
00:53:43Wrong woman?
00:53:48Wearing that cloak and walking alone toward the side hall in the night.
00:53:52Isn't that exactly who I was promised?
00:53:54Aurelia's face drains of color at once.
00:53:57It's Zaya!
00:53:58She's the one you want!
00:54:03Whatever is delivered into my hands, I keep.
00:54:05By the time I hear the news, the Valerius family is already in chaos.
00:54:10Find her!
00:54:10Bring Aurelia back!
00:54:13What now?
00:54:15You finally know fear?
00:54:18Zaya!
00:54:19Are you not worried at all?
00:54:21Why should I worry for someone who grabbed my cloak and went to my death in my place?
00:54:27Two hours later, Aurelia is carried back.
00:54:41When Aurelia is carried back, she looks broken beyond repair.
00:54:45Her face is ghost pale, her eyes unfocused.
00:54:49My daughter!
00:54:50Livia throws herself over her, and the pain in that cry is real.
00:54:53But she is not grieving only for her daughter.
00:54:55She is grieving for Aurelia's reputation, marriage prospects, and the dignity she has spent years protecting.
00:54:59Shut the doors!
00:55:04Anyone who leaks any of this will be put to death!
00:55:08Gaius fears only scandal.
00:55:11That beast, Cassian!
00:55:14I'll kill him!
00:55:15Marcus is truly enraged.
00:55:18But standing to one side, I feel only cold.
00:55:20Three years ago, when I was sent to the labor yard, they looked at me the same way.
00:55:29Say, uh...
00:55:30Don't.
00:55:32Since you were so eager to take my place, then bear the pain yourself.
00:55:41That night, I receive a note sent by Cassian.
00:55:45Cassian asks to see me.
00:55:46Not to negotiate.
00:55:48To provoke.
00:55:49You can't go.
00:55:51I'm going.
00:55:53Why?
00:55:55Because I decided long ago how I want him to suffer.
00:55:58This time, it is an impulse.
00:56:00From the moment he lashed me with that whiff, I was already planning how to repay him.
00:56:08Sayah, you finally came.
00:56:12I didn't come to see you.
00:56:14I came to see how long you can still hold on.
00:56:17By the time he rises and steps toward me, a needle is already hidden between my fingers.
00:56:26The more you want to kill me, the more excited I become.
00:56:31Revolting.
00:56:32In the next second, the needle lashes out from between my fingers.
00:56:36His shoulder stiffens, and I immediately drive my foot into his old wound.
00:56:43That needle and that kick are only the interest.
00:56:51Suddenly, the clash of weapons erupts outside.
00:56:57The sounds of fighting outside draw closer and closer.
00:57:01At last, Cassian realizes something is wrong.
00:57:05You brought men?
00:57:07You think you're worth that much effort from me?
00:57:10I say it aloud, but inside I already know.
00:57:13It is Lucius.
00:57:14He does not show himself.
00:57:16Yet he has tied up every man outside for me.
00:57:20That's not for you to decide.
00:57:24I kick the table over and bolt the moment he dodges.
00:57:35Stop her!
00:57:38The moment I shove open the door, four men are already sprawled on the floor.
00:57:44Their blood is still warm.
00:57:46They fell only moments ago.
00:57:48Lucius is nowhere in sight.
00:57:50But I know he has been here.
00:57:51Not as a test.
00:57:52Not by chance.
00:57:53He is protecting me.
00:57:57When I return to my courtyard gate, Lucius is already there, waiting.
00:58:01Daytime Lucius, cold-eyed, yet his robe still carries the scent of fresh blood.
00:58:05You're back.
00:58:07Were you waiting for me, Commander?
00:58:10Passing by.
00:58:10Dracus' house is nowhere near my place.
00:58:14He doesn't answer.
00:58:16He only lowers his eyes to the blood on my sleeve.
00:58:20You're hurt again.
00:58:22Nothing serious.
00:58:24Cassian touched you.
00:58:28Didn't you already clear the way for me?
00:58:31His eyes darken sharply.
00:58:33I don't like others laying hands on you.
00:58:36My heart jolts.
00:58:41That is rather misleading language from you, Commander.
00:58:48You know what I really mean.
00:58:52For the first time, I feel unmistakable possessiveness from Lucius in his daylight state.
00:58:59The next day, the Seranus family carries payments for buying my marriage straight into Valerius' family.
00:59:05Chest after chest.
00:59:08Heavy enough to crush the air out of the hall.
00:59:12The Ides of April draw near.
00:59:15My master wishes to see his bride.
00:59:19Sayah is still not fully recovered.
00:59:23Then we carry her there.
00:59:26The whole hall goes silent.
00:59:31Why, Mother loves Aurelia most.
00:59:34Does she not?
00:59:41Then send her.
00:59:43Sayah!
00:59:47Enough!
00:59:48Your name is on the contract.
00:59:52And it was your own hand that wrote it there.
00:59:55I look at the chests and feel only mockery.
00:59:59Unfortunately for them, I have already decided not to submit.
01:00:03That night, when I go to see Marcus, I find he can no longer even hold a blade steady.
01:00:14Get out!
01:00:16Why is my dear brother in such a temper?
01:00:19He wants to grab the blade, only to find it has dropped to the ground.
01:00:24It seems the physician was right.
01:00:27Sayah!
01:00:30Why so agitated?
01:00:32I only came to watch how you become useless little by little.
01:00:36He is so furious his eyes turn red.
01:00:39Was this your doing?
01:00:41Where is your proof?
01:00:43I bend down, pick up the blade, and slowly place it on his hand.
01:00:47Hold it steady.
01:00:49His hand trembles.
01:00:50The blade falls again.
01:00:52At last, I smile.
01:00:56Does it hurt?
01:00:58We've only just begun.
01:01:00But the moment I step outside, news comes from Grandmother's rooms.
01:01:04She is coughing blood again.
01:01:09This time, Grandmother coughs up far more blood than before.
01:01:14By the time I rush in, there is almost no color left in her lips.
01:01:19Grandmother!
01:01:20I lift the medicine bowl to feed her and immediately smell something wrong.
01:01:24The same scent again.
01:01:25They are still tampering with it.
01:01:32Adrian has examined the medicine already.
01:01:36What did he say?
01:01:37He said it is something meant to slowly consume a person's life.
01:01:41My fingers turn cold at once.
01:01:43It is no longer suspicion.
01:01:44It is fact.
01:01:46Detain everyone from the kitchen.
01:01:48But your father...
01:01:50I don't care.
01:01:55From now on, every bite and every drop that reaches Grandmother passes through my hands first.
01:02:01I sit by her bed and watch her breathing slowly steady.
01:02:05In that moment, I truly want to kill.
01:02:16Deep into the night, another note from Lucius arrives.
01:02:20Stop waiting.
01:02:22Lucius wrote only two words, but I understand them at once.
01:02:26He is telling me that if I keep enduring, Grandmother will truly die.
01:02:29The next day, Gaius comes to see me in person.
01:02:31The ites of April are nearly here.
01:02:34And?
01:02:36You must marry.
01:02:38Why?
01:02:39Because the Serenus family holds our account books and our private troop records.
01:02:44My gaze stills for a beat.
01:02:46If this marriage is broken, the Valerius family will be destroyed to the last member.
01:02:51So you would rather send me to die?
01:02:53I am head of this family before I am a father.
01:02:56I laugh.
01:02:59Pity.
01:03:00Your days as the head are nearly over.
01:03:03Seiya, don't force me.
01:03:06You have been forcing me all along.
01:03:10After he leaves, for the first time, I no longer want to play this slowly.
01:03:18When Grandmother wakes, she is lucid in a way she has not been for days.
01:03:24Seiya.
01:03:27I'm here.
01:03:29She pulls an old seal from beneath her pillow and presses it into my hand.
01:03:34Take it.
01:03:36Don't sacrifice for anyone again.
01:03:42Grandmother.
01:03:43Your grandfather left guards for you.
01:03:48I never used them because I feared I could not protect you well enough.
01:03:55But now, if I still do nothing, it will be too late.
01:03:59My throat tightens.
01:04:02Grandmother is not merely giving me an escape route.
01:04:04She is placing the Blade of Retaliation into my hand herself.
01:04:09Seiya.
01:04:11Yes.
01:04:15This time, you must win.
01:04:23That night, I placed the seal and the blade Lucius gave me side by side on the table.
01:04:32Two things lie on the table before me.
01:04:35Grandmother's seal.
01:04:36Lucius's blade.
01:04:42Have you decided?
01:04:48I have.
01:04:50Are we fleeing or...
01:04:52We are not fleeing.
01:04:57We will revenge.
01:04:59A chill runs through Leah, yet her eyes brighten.
01:05:02What do you need me to do?
01:05:03Bring Adrian to me.
01:05:10Then sort every old account, connection, and seal grandmother hid over the years.
01:05:14Yes.
01:05:16I lower my eyes to the thin blade and slowly brush the edge with my fingertip.
01:05:23Gaius, Livia, Cassian, this time I no longer want to deal with them one by one.
01:05:30But just then, the window is gently pushed open from outside.
01:05:40I lift my head and see Lucius in his night state.
01:05:44He stands by the window, watching me in silence.
01:05:49Mother is unhappy.
01:05:54You always can tell that.
01:05:56Because I'm always watching you.
01:05:58My chest tightens.
01:06:03Lucius, do you know I'm about to be sent to Cassian?
01:06:05I won't allow it.
01:06:08Why?
01:06:12Because he will hurt you.
01:06:14He comes closer and looks down at the fading bite mark on my shoulder.
01:06:20I don't like it when others touch you.
01:06:23The words are too direct.
01:06:25So direct that for a moment I can't answer.
01:06:28Then why don't you say that in the daytime?
01:06:31The daytime me is a fool.
01:06:34I almost laugh.
01:06:37So he knows how awkward his daytime self is.
01:06:45At dawn the next morning, Kale arrives in person.
01:06:48If Kale has come in person, then matters can no longer be delayed.
01:06:52Miss Saya.
01:06:53The commander wishes to see you.
01:06:57And if I refuse?
01:06:59Then you'd make things difficult for me.
01:07:01As he speaks, he hands me a small wooden box.
01:07:06What is this?
01:07:07The commander says you'd best keep this on you until the wedding date.
01:07:15I open it and find a thin blade.
01:07:19What does he expect me to do with it?
01:07:21The commander says that if you are truly driven to the edge, you need not submit.
01:07:26I fall silent.
01:07:27Lucius is giving me a way through blood.
01:07:32There is one more thing.
01:07:34Say it.
01:07:35The commander says he does not want to see you die.
01:07:37Something strikes hard against my heart.
01:07:40That night, on the final eve before the Ides of April, I hide the blade in my sleeve.
01:07:47On the last night before the Ides of April, the wind is fierce.
01:07:51I sit by grandmother's bedside, holding both the seal and the blade in my hand.
01:07:55One is the strike grandmother left me.
01:07:57One is the path to life Lucius placed in my hands.
01:08:00By tonight, I finally understand.
01:08:02I am no longer the Seiya who can only be pushed out to die.
01:08:08Grandmother, rest easy.
01:08:11This time, I won't sacrifice for anyone.
01:08:21I push the door open.
01:08:23There is no one outside.
01:08:25Lucius did not come.
01:08:26But I know that when I truly strike back, he will come.
01:08:29This time, I am not afraid.
01:08:33Lucius.
01:08:35Tomorrow, remember to come and steal me away.
01:08:41This time, I am not afraid.
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