Family secrets, painful betrayal, and a powerful comeback drive this emotional and addictive short drama.
#drama #romance #love #movie #lovestory #truelove #relationship #heartbreak #betrayal #couple
#drama #romance #love #movie #lovestory #truelove #relationship #heartbreak #betrayal #couple
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Short filmTranscript
00:00I was pregnant, but I didn't know who the father was.
00:02It took me months to realize.
00:04The man who claimed my body was the most dangerous man in the entire empire.
00:07A cursed full moon night eye, Ava was being hunted by a pack of beastmen.
00:10The pitch black forest loomed like the gaping jaws of a monster.
00:13I ran for my life.
00:14Behind me, a stench of blood pressed against my neck.
00:16Razor sharp claws sliced through the air.
00:19Rip, my dress tore to shreds.
00:21Just a little closer.
00:23One more inch, and they would tear me to pieces.
00:27Desperate, I crashed into a deathly, silent, ancient mansion.
00:30I screamed for help.
00:32Instead of human comfort, dozens of golden magic streaks pierced the darkness.
00:35The charging beast didn't even have time to free, and was hurled away.
00:38Instant silence.
00:39I looked up, trembling.
00:40Upper body, muscles rippling under the firelight.
00:42A bloodied sword rested in his hand.
00:44Behind him swayed a long golden beast tail.
00:46He saved me.
00:47But something was desperately wrong.
00:48He was panting, his chest heaving violently, suppressing something inside.
00:51Then, burning golden veins erupted across his neck, rapidly covering his entire body.
00:55His aura turned feral, violent, insane.
00:58He lifted his head, glared at me.
01:01Get out before I lose control and tear you apart.
01:05But I saw it.
01:05If I ran, that raging power would burn his soul to ashes.
01:08He had saved me.
01:09Now it was my turn.
01:10Trembling, I stepped closer.
01:12My fingertips cautiously brushed his cold crown, trying to soothe the brutality.
01:15A violent backlash threw me away.
01:17I slammed hard against the stone wall.
01:19Too weak.
01:19With my power, I could never suppress him.
01:21Unless, I gave myself to him completely.
01:24The moment I hesitated, he snapped.
01:26His golden beast eyes snapped open.
01:28Next second, he was right in front of me.
01:30Before I could breathe, he pinned me.
01:32Whelming pressure crashed down.
01:33His scorching breath battered my neck.
01:35Lips brushed my skin, sliding lower and lower.
01:38Every touch sent violent shivers through me.
01:40An indescribable tingling heat tightened.
01:42Like he gripped the bedsheets, my breathing system.
01:45Dangerous, yet impossible to resist.
01:47Golden light wrapped around our bodies.
01:51Our powers began to merge wildly.
01:55When I woke up the next day, I was resting against his chest, still masked.
02:00Only the sharp, cold line of his jaw showed.
02:02Instinctively, I reached out.
02:04I wanted to see his real face.
02:05But a powerful surge of golden magic blasted me away.
02:08I crashed onto the bed, hard.
02:11Sunlight spilled through the curtains, blinding me.
02:13I was doomed.
02:14If father found out I stayed out all night, he would kill me.
02:18Panicked, I got dressed and fled, as if I was escaping a nightmare.
02:22I staggled home and collapsed into a chair.
02:24A wave of nausea suddenly twisted in my stomach.
02:27Every drop of color drained from my face.
02:29I could feel it.
02:30A new life was growing inside me.
02:32I was pregnant, and I didn't even know his name.
02:36Bang, bang!
02:37Urgent knocking shattered my panic.
02:39Father wanted me in the drawing room.
02:40My heart tightened.
02:41Summoned my magic.
02:42I suppressed the life era inside my womb, burying my secret before going out.
02:46Inside the drawing room, the air was suffocating.
02:48His majesty has given his decree.
02:49We must offer our purest daughter to crown Prince Ken.
02:52The moment I heard that name, my entire body froze.
02:54Everyone in the empire knew.
02:55Ken was a complete killing machine.
02:57Right then, Bella let out a soft, venomless laugh.
03:00She said that on the wedding night, the leopard god contract ritual would be performed.
03:03The ritual would test the bride's purity.
03:05And anyone judged, because I knew I was no longer pure.
03:08If I went up there, I would die.
03:10I dropped to my knees, desperately begging father.
03:13I cried out that Lucas and I were in love, that I couldn't marry Ken.
03:16Let Bella marry Lucas.
03:18Unwilling to give up, I continued pleading.
03:20But father shoved me aside.
03:22He said the wedding was in three days.
03:24The royal palace had even prepared maids to train me for the consummation night.
03:28I had no other choice.
03:29Without a single backward glance, father strode away.
03:33Bella slid over, bending down right against my ear.
03:36I can't wait to see your performance at the wedding.
03:40The day of the ritual.
03:41Warm steam filled the bathing chamber.
03:43May leaned against the edge of the pulley, washed my body.
03:45But my mind?
03:46It was trapped in a nightmare.
03:47That full moon growing night.
03:48That mass leopard clan man?
03:50I covered my lower abdomen.
03:51My face growing pale.
03:52What was I supposed to do?
03:53If Ken discovered I was pregnant, I would definitely die.
03:56My mother and Bella walked in.
03:57Bella looked down at me, her lips curling into a mocking smile.
04:01Looks like the maid scrubbed you nice and clean.
04:04What a shame you're about to die anyway.
04:07I know your secret.
04:09You're not a virgin anymore.
04:11And you're pregnant.
04:12Do you know?
04:15Ken has a private garden.
04:17He buries a woman every single day.
04:20To fertilize the flowers.
04:22Your ending may be worse than theirs.
04:24In that instant, every drop of blood in my body frozen solid.
04:27How did she know?
04:29Unless the full moon night was a trap?
04:31As the thought crossed my mind, I lost control.
04:33Tears streamed down my face.
04:34The overwhelming terror swallowed me whole.
04:37I denied being pregnant.
04:39But Bella only stood there with a mocking smile.
04:42She whispered about that full moon night.
04:45How much I enjoyed it.
04:47And how I had conceived a child because of it.
04:50In that instant, I understood everything.
04:52That night was never an accident.
04:53It was Bella.
04:54She lured me into that forest.
04:56She paid those feral bandspels to hunt me down.
04:58I stared at her in shock.
04:59All these years, everything she wanted, I gave it to her.
05:02Why did she still want me dead?
05:03Jealousy twisted her face.
05:04Every woman wants Lucas.
05:06And I was nothing more than a lowly cat.
05:08I don't deserve him.
05:09Mother stood nearby, soothing Bella as she spoke.
05:11She said that Lucas was Bella's fiancé now.
05:13There was no reason past the Leopard God contract.
05:15There was no reason past the Leopard God contract.
05:16My rage finally exploded.
05:18Gathering my residual magic, I lunged forward,
05:21hurling a strike straight at Bella's throat.
05:23But even stronger force slammed back against me.
05:26I crashed onto the ground.
05:28Blood spilled from the corner of my mouth.
05:30Defiant, I forced my head up, spitting blood.
05:33What if they can discover the truth?
05:35They laughed.
05:35In their eyes, Ken would never protect me.
05:37Because that man, I was the coldest, the cruelest killing machine.
05:41He might even torture me to death.
05:43Despair swallowed me whole.
05:45And then, with a deafening crash, the massive glass wall shattered.
05:49Wild wind mixed with a terrifying golden era swept through the room like a hurricane.
05:54A tall man burst through the broken window.
05:58He pulled me into his arms.
06:01His icy voice echoed throughout the room.
06:04Who said I wouldn't protect her?
06:09It was Ken.
06:10The bath chamber fell into deathly silence.
06:12Bella and Mother turned pale.
06:13Almost instinctively, they collapsed to their knees.
06:15Ken strode toward me.
06:16Cold, overwhelming pressure.
06:18Ken declared that I was his wife.
06:19From this moment on, anyone defying me was making an enemy of the entire empire.
06:24Bella and Mother panicked, stammering, begging for mercy, claiming it was all just a joke.
06:28Ken didn't even waste a glance.
06:29Boom.
06:30Terrifying golden power erupted violently.
06:32Bella and Mohor were instantly blasted away.
06:34I stare blankly at the man before me.
06:36I never could have imagined the killing machine actually come to save me.
06:39Lowering his head, he gently tucked a red rose between my breasts.
06:42Dangerous.
06:43Intimate.
06:43Then his gaze locked onto the cut on my lips.
06:45He said my lips were beautiful.
06:46His fingers brushed against them.
06:48Almost instantly, the power inside my body spiraled out of control.
06:51Soft cat ears sprang from my head.
06:53Countless pink flower petals drifted down.
06:54Pink spiritual energy wrapped around us.
06:56Exactly like that night.
06:58Chased through the forest.
06:59Breathing shattered.
07:00A tingling weakness spread through my body.
07:02And as Ken watched me lose control, his gaze grew even more dangerous.
07:05Just touching your ears.
07:06He murmured.
07:08And you've gave every reaction?
07:16Now I'm starting to worry.
07:18When the consummation night comes, will you turn directly into a needy little kitten in heat instead?
07:33Blushing.
07:34I looked at Ken.
07:35Quietly asked if the ritual had to happen tonight.
07:37Ken looked down.
07:37Told me it was the law of the empire.
07:39But my heart instantly sank.
07:40Because only I knew once the ritual began, my secrets would be exposed.
07:44Maid's voice outside.
07:45Ceremony about to begin.
07:46Ken glided behind me, changing my gown.
07:48His long fingers smoothed down the heavy velvet.
07:51Yet every movement felt dangerously intimate.
07:53His palm traced upward along my-
07:54Just want to remind you how I'll strip this dress off you tonight.
07:57Raw magic unleashed.
07:59Forcing my cat ears and tail back beneath skin.
08:01Dangerous possessiveness in his eyes.
08:03He solemnly told me that no one else was allowed to see me like this.
08:06He lifted me effortlessly into his arms.
08:08Massive golden beast swooped down outside.
08:10Ken stepped onto the royal mount, flying towards the palace.
08:13Wild winds swept through my long hair.
08:14Below us, countless nobles and knights following closely.
08:17The entire vanguard bowed their heads in respect.
08:19And at the very front of them was Lucas.
08:20Instantly a suffocating lethal era crashed down on me.
08:23Ken had tracked my eyes.
08:24I told you don't look at other men.
08:25You belong only to me now.
08:27His lips smashed down onto mine.
08:29The kiss was raw, violent, and dripping with punishment.
08:31He bit my lip on purpose.
08:33Taste of blood.
08:33The flying beast racing through the sky.
08:35Jolt violent bump.
08:36I contrembled.
08:37And my soft cattail slipped out untrollably.
08:39So, this is all it takes to get you excited?
08:41In that case, I wouldn't mind taking you right here in the sky.
08:45The massive golden flying beast descended in front of the royal capital.
08:52Ken stepped down first.
08:55Took my hand.
08:57Leading me step by step into the castle.
09:00The entire palace was so luxurious it felt impressive.
09:03Flames and magical crystals illuminated the grand hall.
09:06Nobles and ministers lined up on both sides.
09:08My parents and Bella standing among the crowd, very top of the hall.
09:11Seated upon the imperial throne.
09:12The most powerful woman in the empire.
09:14The empress, Elizabeth.
09:16Ken and I stopped together and bowed before her.
09:18Begin the ritual.
09:19At her command, a minister in white robes stepped forward.
09:21He raised both hands and powerful magic gathered in the air.
09:24An ancient black and gold magic book appeared, before everyone.
09:27Its pages flipped automatically, stopping in front of the cave Ken and me.
09:30Then the minister spoke in a deep voice.
09:32Princess Ava, place your hand upon the book.
09:34Swear before the empress.
09:36Princess, remain forever loyal to Prince Ken.
09:38And preserve the purest bloodline for the royal family.
09:42If there is any falsehood, the magic book shall release the power of darkness.
09:46Will be devoured by beasts.
09:47My face instantly turned pale.
09:50Because I knew, not only had I lost my purity, I was even carrying a child.
09:55And just then, Bella suddenly stepped forward.
09:58She deliberately looked at me and smiled.
10:01Why does my dear sister look so pale?
10:04Could it be...
10:06That you're hiding something?
10:10Ava, what are you hesitating for?
10:15The next second, Empress raised her sepulor.
10:19A terrifying pressure crashed toward me.
10:21I could barely breathe.
10:22An even stronger surge of golden power blocked it.
10:25It was Ken.
10:26He protected me.
10:28Don't be afraid.
10:30I'm here.
10:30No one can touch you.
10:31Finally made my decision.
10:33Because I couldn't die.
10:34Not just for myself, but for the child growing inside me.
10:37Panicking, I gathered every drop of my magic, airing the abnormal aura of my pregnancy.
10:42Then I raised my hand and placed it on the leopard god's book.
10:44And I began my vow.
10:45I, Ava, will remain forever loyal to Ken.
10:49I will protect the purity of the royal bloodline.
10:52If I speak any falsehood, I willingly accept the judgment of the beasts.
10:56The instant the oath ended, the book suddenly erupted with dazzling golden light.
11:00There was no darkness.
11:02No punishment.
11:02I was accepted.
11:03The Empress nodded.
11:05And the Minister announced the establishment.
11:07I froze in shock.
11:08Did I deceive the book?
11:10Or, was the bastard growing inside my room?
11:12Actually a royal heir?
11:14I induced labor.
11:15I had no time to think further.
11:17The consummation ritual began.
11:19Ken swept me into his arms and carried me toward the royal bedchamber.
11:23Thud placing me gently onto the bed, leaning down over me, staring into my eyes, speaking in a low voice.
11:30Are you ready to let your husband take what belongs to him?
11:36This ritual was not meant for only Ken and me alone.
11:43Beyond the layers of silk curtains, royal ministers and priests stood waiting.
11:48They would witness the whole process.
11:50I lay on the bed, breathing trembling from nerves, instinctively trying to retreat backward.
11:56Next second, Ken grabbed my ankle, pulling me back.
11:58Then a sharp smack landed heavily against my hip.
12:00A burning sensation instantly spread through my body.
12:03Where do you think you're running?
12:05My face flushed crimson as I struggled to escape.
12:07But Ken leaned down, forcefully tugging at my sleeve.
12:10The fabric slit hip teasingly hooked beneath the edge of my sleeve, gliding upward along the curve of my arm.
12:14Every swipe of his hand dripped with unadulted aggression.
12:16Pure tension.
12:17His cold breath drew closer, air suffocatingly thick.
12:19Danger and raw tension.
12:21Just then, a minute...
12:22Ritual time was almost upon them.
12:24Before the moon goddess descended, the process had to be completed.
12:28The moment I heard those words, my body stiffened even more.
12:32Meanwhile, Ken lowered his gaze back to me, leaning close against my ear.
12:36Dangerously hussy whisper.
12:38They'll all be waiting outside.
12:40Tonight, every single scream I tear out of you will be heard.
12:44Inside the silk curtains, air heavy, almost suffocating.
12:48I lay on the bed, tears falling uncontrollably.
12:52With reddened eyes, I looked at him.
12:54I told him they raised his hand.
12:56I only wanted to give myself to someone I tears.
12:59I don't give love.
13:01I fuck.
13:01Just then, a commotion suddenly erupted outside the curtains.
13:04Nobles and unusually priests and quibuil inside the consummation ritual.
13:08Bella was the first to stir trouble.
13:10Raising her voice, saying it was far too quiet.
13:12Questioning if the ritual had even begun.
13:13Even the empress losing patience.
13:15She ordered that if the ritual did not continue immediately, the curtains would be pulled open by force.
13:19The moment I heard that, panic instantly overwhelmed me.
13:22Ken finally stopped waiting.
13:24The man rose to his feet.
13:26One by one, he removed his clothes.
13:28Broad shoulders.
13:29Powerful muscles.
13:30The next second, Ken lowered himself closer to me.
13:33His scorching breath drew nearer, little by little.
13:37I had to protect the child inside me.
13:39The moment Ken leaned close enough, I made my decision.
13:42Then I suddenly thrust it toward him.
13:43Slash.
13:44The sharp tip pierced directly into his chest.
13:46Blood instantly spilled out.
13:48Ken froze, looking at the wound, lifting his gaze back to me.
13:51For the first time, disbelief appeared in those golden beast eyes.
13:56My breathing stopped instantly.
13:57Footsteps outside, growing closer and closer.
14:01Open the cup.
14:01Empress started to speak.
14:03My heart nearly leaped into my throat.
14:05But just one second before everyone burst inside, Ken suddenly reversed the dagger in his hand and slashed deeply across
14:11his own palm.
14:12Blood instantly poured out.
14:14Grabbing a cloth stained with blood.
14:16Violently throwing it beyond the curtains.
14:20Blood stained cloth thrown beyond the curtains.
14:22My body still trembling.
14:24I had almost believed I was going to die.
14:27But Ken merely lowered his gaze to me.
14:29Not angry, nor punishing me for stabbing him.
14:32He leaned closer, using his blood-stained fingers to brush across my lips.
14:38I'd never force a woman in bed.
14:41I'd wait until you beg me to love you.
14:47Whole body shuddered.
14:49Breathing instantly uneven.
14:51Ken thoroughly pleased.
14:53Fingertips deliberately lingering.
14:56Stroping my lips.
14:57My body hotter and hotter.
14:58Just then, an urgent report suddenly came from outside the curtains.
15:02It was Lucas.
15:03Reporting other beast clans had invaded the Empire's borderlands.
15:05Next second, he changed into black and gold battle armor.
15:09Atop his head, the golden beast ears appeared.
15:11Symbolizing royal power.
15:13Ken truly looked like the terrifying war machine.
15:16He didn't even turn back.
15:17He simply coldly ordered the Night Legion to assemble.
15:20Lucas immediately obeyed.
15:21Leaping onto their massive flying beast mounts.
15:24Countless knights rapidly gathered behind them.
15:26Golden light illuminated the night sky.
15:29Soon, the vast army disappeared beyond the royal capital.
15:35Meanwhile, the maids escorted me away.
15:37But I never could have imagined what would happen next.
15:39Bella rushed into the Grand Hall.
15:40Shouting that I had deceived the entire royal family.
15:43She claimed I was not pure at all.
15:44That I was even carrying the child of a low-born beast man.
15:47The in-mother hall stepped forward as well.
15:48Claiming she could slay in to find this.
15:50Empress darkened completely.
15:53She raised her septalur.
15:54Purple magic gathering wildly around her.
15:58Terrifying pressure instantly descended upon me.
16:05Examine her immediately.
16:08And if every word is true,
16:12feed her alive to the Imperial beast.
16:17The Empress slammed her fist.
16:19Summoning the doctor.
16:20An antlered female doctor approached.
16:23Holding a glowing green crystal.
16:25Panic hit me almost instantly.
16:27Because I knew.
16:28The secret inside my womb was about to be exposed.
16:31She pressed it against my belly.
16:33Buzz green light spread.
16:35Dead silence.
16:36Everyone stared.
16:38The doctor's face fell.
16:39Finally, she lowered her head and announced.
16:46Ava Adrian is carrying a child.
16:49And she conceived the child before the Leopard God contract.
16:52The entire hall exploded.
16:54Bella laughed out loud.
16:55First of everyone.
16:57Uncontrollable excitement.
16:59Waiting for this exact moment.
17:01She shouted my crime.
17:03Deceiving the royals.
17:04Deceiving the contract.
17:05Now, the only fate awaiting me was to be torn apart.
17:10Mother stepped forward as well.
17:11Begging the Empress for my immediate death.
17:14Nobles and ministers quickly joined in.
17:16Countless voices filled with disgust,
17:18contempt and cruelty crashed down upon me.
17:21I stood frozen.
17:22Completely condemned.
17:27The Empress lost her temper.
17:29She violently raised her scepter.
17:31Purple magic swept the hall.
17:32Then she gave her icy command.
17:34Take her to the arena.
17:35Prepare the beasts.
17:36And notify Ken at once.
17:38My heart sank.
17:39Because I knew the so-called arena was never a trial.
17:43Guards bound me.
17:44Enormous crucifix.
17:45Center of the arena.
17:47Cold iron chains tightly locked around my wrists.
17:49Wild wind whipped through my hair.
17:51The surrounding stands were packed with nobles and beast clans alike.
17:55Everyone was waiting to watch me die.
17:56In despair, I lowered my head.
17:59Not far away, Bella and Mother stood among the crowd.
18:01The smiles on their faces were impossible to hide.
18:03Waiting for this exact moment.
18:05In despair, the moment of my death.
18:07High above, the Empress rose.
18:08Two words.
18:10Execute her.
18:11Boom.
18:11The next second, the gates burst open.
18:13Countless savage beasts came roaring out.
18:14Dust instantly swept across the entire arena.
18:16Sharp bangs.
18:17Blood-red eyes.
18:18Frenzied killing intent.
18:19Bound tightly.
18:20I have nowhere left to run.
18:21I closed my eyes.
18:22But as they were about to pounce, something changed.
18:24Boom.
18:25A brilliant golden light exploded from my lower abdomen.
18:27Boom.
18:27A terrifying force swept across the arena.
18:29Every charging beast was blasted backward.
18:30Everyone shot to their feet.
18:31In shock, even I froze in disbelief.
18:33A faint golden leopard marking suddenly appeared across my lower abdomen.
18:36Seeing it, Anker's expressions changed instantly.
18:38She stared fixedly at the mark on my stomach.
18:39Then, as though she had finally realized something, she whispered in disbelief.
18:42Why?
18:43Does Ava bear the royal oak of a leopard cub?
18:45My child saved my life.
18:47Blinding golden power spreading, forming massive barrier protecting her.
18:50Though savage stood frozen, Bella staring at the mark.
18:52Eyes filled with jealousy and hatred.
18:54In a loud voice, she reminded the empress that the child's power was far too dangerous.
18:58So, she should be killed immediately.
18:59The empress fell silent, then found the child's power flying at Silva.
19:02Boom.
19:03The golden barrier cracked.
19:04Little by little, backslash struck my body.
19:06Blood spilling from my lips.
19:08Bella became hysterically excited, pointing at me.
19:10You filthy cat blood!
19:11Die already!
19:11Silva advanced toward me once more.
19:14I tightly protected my stomach.
19:16No, I could die.
19:17But my child could not.
19:19No way left.
19:20I could only burn my own soul.
19:22Her spiritual power ignores.
19:23Has she gone insane?
19:24She's burning her own soul?
19:26Once a beastman ignites their soul, it means complete destruction!
19:29Her spirit will disintegrate!
19:31She'll power will shatter!
19:32Her unable to ever take human form again!
19:35Suddenly, a mass of cracks split open across the sky.
19:38Boom!
19:39Blinding golden light instantly pierced through the arena.
19:42Everyone looked up.
19:43And from within that light, a man emerged.
19:46It was Ken, sword in hand.
19:48Battle robes whipping in the wind.
19:49Those golden beast eyes were cold enough to suffocate the world.
19:53Then, he spoke.
19:54I'd like to see who dares touch my princess.
20:00When I woke up again, several days had passed.
20:03Sunlight filtering through curtains.
20:05A body keeping his lave breath as I opened my eyes.
20:08From her, I learned the truth.
20:10The man who had saved me in the forest cabin.
20:12It was Bring Me Ben.
20:13I froze.
20:14Soul damage was irreversible.
20:16Yet Ken had gone that far.
20:18For me.
20:18Just as my thoughts spiraled, the bedroom door suddenly opened.
20:22Ken walked in.
20:23His face was paler than before.
20:25In a low voice, he said that if I hadn't woken up soon, he would kill whoever hurt me.
20:31Well, the hearts trembled violently.
20:33Next moment, Ken lifted me into his arms, taking me to bathe.
20:36Warm steam filled the bathing chamber.
20:38Ken lowered me into the heated water, hand moving toward my robe ties,
20:42eartops turning bright red, cat ears popping out uncontrollably.
20:46Flustered, I pretended to wash my hair, not daring to look at him at all.
20:49I told him I could undress myself.
20:51Next second, Ken pulled me back into his arms, his breath brushing against my face.
20:55Ask why my hands were shaking?
20:57I was brave enough to touch his tail that night.
20:59He took a small jar of scented balm, his lips almost touching me.
21:03Warm fingertips tracing down my spine.
21:07I just didn't want to watch you die.
21:15Don't you want to be closer to me?
21:19I'm pregnant!
21:20We can't do that right now!
21:24I promised you, I'll wait until the day you truly fall in love with me.
21:28Right now, I just want to help you practice a few things.
21:34Now, hold here tightly, and start practicing.
21:39The next morning, I woke up on a soft, luxurious bed.
21:45My right hand sore and weak.
21:48Ken was already gone.
21:52Just then, a maid walked in, informing me Ken went to train the royal guards.
21:59He specifically instructed her to show me around the palace.
22:03A strange warmth spread through my chest.
22:06After changing, I followed her out.
22:08The palace was quiet and magnificent, but passing a long corridor, I stopped.
22:12Far end of the hallway, a garden sealed behind enormous iron gates, bearing a royal crest,
22:18marked with a prohibition against entry.
22:20Curious, I asked the maid what lay beyond.
22:22The maid's expression instantly changed.
22:24In a lowered voice, she told me that was a forbidden area sealed by Prince Ken.
22:28No one was allowed to enter.
22:29Anyone who disobeyed the order would be executed immediately.
22:31Those words triggered a toxic memory.
22:33The mocking words my mother spit when I was trapped in the bath.
22:38Do you know, Ken has a private garden.
22:42He buries a woman every single day.
22:45To fertilize the flowers.
22:48Your ending may be worse than theirs.
22:51A chill crept down my spine.
22:54And yet, deep down, I still felt Ken wasn't that kind of person.
22:59I couldn't stop myself.
23:02Walking toward the iron gate, I pushed open the heavy doors.
23:05The next second, I froze completely.
23:08Inside the garden, the ground was covered in countless white bones.
23:12And the faint smell of blood lingered in the air.
23:14All blood in my body frozen solid.
23:17Could it be every rumor about Ken was true?
23:20He's a merciless, psychopathic butcher.
23:23Suppressing fear, I walked deeper into the garden.
23:28Next second, I stepped on a loose stone.
23:31I lost my balance.
23:34Wave of weightlessness.
23:35Falling downward.
23:37Opening my eyes.
23:38A hidden passage concealed beneath.
23:40Ancient beast clan runes carved across walls.
23:42At the end of the tunnel sat a massive black chest.
23:46My first thought corpses.
23:48Walking toward step by step.
23:50Opening the chest.
23:51I was stunned.
23:52No bodies.
23:53Only stacks of yellowed secret journals.
23:56My trembling.
23:57Fingers opened the first page.
23:59Heart pounding harder.
24:00Documenting the missing cat.
24:01Clan girls from past years.
24:03Or, conceived bloodlines forbidden to exist.
24:06The rumors about women used as fertilizer.
24:08Had all been lies.
24:11Ken was never the monster.
24:13Instead, he had been secretly investigating their deaths all along.
24:17I finally understood.
24:18Why Ken hated the royal laws.
24:21And why he was so desperate to protect me and my child.
24:24Thinking of that, my eyes burned red.
24:26And just then.
24:27A familiar venomous voice behind me.
24:31Who said you can enter the forbidden garden?
24:35Who allowed you to pry into royal secrets?
24:40The empress has already given the order.
24:44Kill Ava.
24:46And bury her here as well.
24:50I glared at Bella.
24:51Demanding to know her plan.
24:53She lifted a hand.
24:54An attendant stepped forward.
24:56Holding a barbed whip.
24:57Seeing those barbs, my stomach dropped.
24:58But before I could react, it dropped.
25:00Crack!
25:00The first nizing pain instantly tore through viciously.
25:03I collapsed onto the ground.
25:04Bella smiled wider.
25:06She'd been waiting for this moment all along.
25:08She ordered the attendant to hit harder.
25:10Soon, the second lash.
25:11The pain was so intense.
25:13Then the third.
25:15My breathing began trembling.
25:16But Bella only sneered at me.
25:19Reminding me this was the forbidden garden.
25:22Violating royal commands.
25:23I deserved to die.
25:25She was nearly carrying out the empress orders.
25:27She coldly ordered the attendant again.
25:30Keep going.
25:31Crack!
25:32The whip lashed down once more.
25:33Pain draining my last strength.
25:34I collapsed helplessly onto the floor.
25:36Blood trickled down my arm.
25:37Only one thought remained in my mind.
25:39If Ken saw me like this, he would be heartbroken.
25:40My eyes sting.
25:41But Bella merely smiled.
25:43Cold smiles sending chills down my spine.
25:45She lifted a hand.
25:46My stomach dropped.
25:47An attendant stepped forward.
25:48Holding a barbed whip.
25:50Agonizing pain instantly tore through my skin.
25:52I collapsed onto the ground.
25:53Bella smiled wider.
25:54She'd been waiting for this moment all along.
25:56She ordered the attendant to hit harder.
25:58Soon, the second lash.
25:59Then the third.
26:00Blood rapidly spread.
26:00The pain was so intense.
26:02My breathing began trembling.
26:03I bit my lip hard and struggled to raise my head.
26:05But Bella only sneered at me.
26:07Reminding me this was the forbidden garden.
26:08Violating royal commands.
26:09I deserved to die.
26:11Keep going.
26:12She was merely carrying out the Empress orders.
26:14She coldly ordered the attendant to get me.
26:16Braining my last strength.
26:17I collapsed helplessly onto the floor.
26:19Blood trickled down my arm.
26:21Only one thought remained in my mind.
26:22If Ken saw me like this, he would be heartbroken.
26:25My eyes sting.
26:26Then next instant, the bracelet around my wrist burned hot.
26:29The gemstone turned bright crimson.
26:31No one knew how much time had passed.
26:33Brutal whipping finally stopped.
26:35I lay on the ground covered in blood.
26:37Every breath laced with pain.
26:38And yet arms still clinging journal against my chest.
26:40Because I knew.
26:41It wasn't noticed the stories of those brats of dead girls.
26:43It was everything Ken had spent years in his hiding and protecting.
26:46She asked what exactly was it.
26:47Something so important I'd protect it with my life.
26:49Even in this pathetic state.
26:50I forced my head up.
26:51Then word by word I told her.
26:53Someone as rotten as her would never understand.
26:54Bella's expression turned icy.
26:56She walked straight towards me, trying to snatch it away.
26:58Boom!
26:58A blast of magic slammed violently into my body.
27:00Agonizing pain exploded through my every single nerve.
27:02A muffled cry escaped.
27:03Finally unable to hold on.
27:05The journal slipped from my hands.
27:06Bella immediately picked it up.
27:07Looking as though she had finally gotten what she wanted.
27:09She flipped through a few pages.
27:10Then suddenly, an idea occurred.
27:11She smiled.
27:12She said she could give me a chance to take the journal back.
27:14Raising her hand, terrifying fire magic instantly spread across the ground.
27:18The cold stone floor turned directly into the molten lava.
27:20Scorching heat rushed toward me.
27:21Bella stood across from me, looking down at me from above.
27:24Deliberately, she waved the journal lightly in her hand.
27:26Then she spoke with vicious delight.
27:28If you crawl across the lava like a dog, I'll give the journal back to you.
27:32Otherwise, I'll burn it right now.
27:35I froze completely because if those journals were destroyed,
27:38everything Ken spent years investigating disappear.
27:40I clenched my teeth and nodded.
27:44Dragging my broken, blood-soaked body forward,
27:47I began clawing little by little towards the molten lava.
27:52Step by step, I walked across the burning stones of molten lava.
27:55Every step, like red-hot blades.
27:57I didn't know how much time had passed.
27:58Dragging my battered body, finally crawling to the other side.
28:00Blood continuously streamed down my legs.
28:02First thing I did, reaching my hand toward Bella,
28:04begging her to return the journal.
28:05But Bella suddenly smiled.
28:07Right in front of me, she said we got blood.
28:09The journal instantly fell into the lava.
28:11No, I lost all control.
28:12Lunging my entire body over the news.
28:14Scorching edge.
28:15Ignoring the unbearable hands,
28:16I reached the molten lava to grab it.
28:18It's agony of burning skin, body trembling violently.
28:21Too late.
28:21By the time I pulled the journal,
28:23it had been burned beyond recognition.
28:24Everything destroyed.
28:25Tears streamed down my place.
28:27Yet Bella won't let me go.
28:29She raised her hand.
28:31Cold water magic gathering wildly.
28:34Terrifying killing intent locked onto me.
28:36Then she screamed viciously at me.
28:39Bella screamed viciously at me.
28:40Go to hell!
28:42A fatal blast of magic.
28:43No time to dodge.
28:45But just as new time was about to keep you.
28:46Boom!
28:47An even more terrifying surge of golden power suddenly exploded from behind.
28:51Bella's magic was instantly shattered completely.
28:53The entire forbidden garden trembled violently.
28:56Then a familiar figure stepped in front of me.
28:58It was Ken.
28:59Terrifying golden Ken intent.
29:02Surging like a slime.
29:03And Bella, who had been so arrogant,
29:05instantly turned deathly pale the moment she saw her.
29:08Then with a thud,
29:09she dropped to her knees.
29:13Ken rushed to my side,
29:15carefully helping me up.
29:16Whole body trembling,
29:17blood seeping from morals.
29:18In a low voice, he whispered,
29:20I'm sorry.
29:21I came too late.
29:22Suppressed emotions nearly shattered.
29:23Then Ken lifted his head and looked toward Bella.
29:25He asked her if these horrific wounds were her doing.
29:28Bella tried to defend herself,
29:29claiming I trespassed,
29:30merely punishing me according to royal law.
29:32Next second,
29:33Ken coldly laughed.
29:34With a single glance,
29:35he exposed her thoughts.
29:36The magic meant not the ordinary punishment.
29:39It was a forbidden dark curse for devouring souls.
29:42This wasn't an execution under royal law.
29:44She wanted to completely erase my soul from existence,
29:47tearing my spirit to flesh.
29:49The spell laid bare.
29:51The guards came out.
29:52They all dropped their amazing black prophecy.
29:55They claimed that everything had been done without him.
29:58She even lied about having Ken's permission.
30:00Ken's expression jokingly,
30:01he immediately summoned Jesus.
30:03Then, in a cold voice,
30:05he gave it the order.
30:06Strict Bella of her noble status.
30:09And as for every,
30:10guard participated in torturing me today.
30:12Cut off their claws.
30:13Punched my face.
30:14Everyone's faces deathly.
30:16Bella completely broke.
30:17Screamed and cried desperately for mercy.
30:20But Ken didn't spare another glimpse.
30:22Simply pulling me back into his arms.
30:24Then, without looking back,
30:26he carried me out of the forbidden garden.
30:27Behind us,
30:28echoed Bella's desperate screams as she was dragged away.
30:34Ken carried me the entire way back to the royal chambers.
30:37Hands staying tightly around me.
30:38Afraid I might disappear.
30:39Very soon,
30:40the royal dear healer was,
30:42urgently summoned.
30:42A green healing array unfolded throughout the room.
30:45After,
30:45examining me,
30:46the healer finally let out a relieved breath.
30:48She said my injuries were mostly superficial wounds.
30:51Then she raised her hands.
30:52Soft green magic covered my body.
30:54Burning pain fading little by little.
30:55Warmth enveloping me.
30:57Body relaxing into his chest.
30:58In what felt like forever,
31:00pain completely disappeared.
31:01Gathering courage to look at Ken.
31:03Quietly,
31:03I asked him whether he was angry that I entered the forbidden garden.
31:06Ken didn't answer.
31:07Instead,
31:07his gaze fell to the bracelet on my wrist.
31:09Then he asked softly if I knew why it had turned red.
31:11I shook my head.
31:12Ken took hold of my,
31:13hand.
31:14He told me that the bracelet was tethered to our souls.
31:16Only when the other,
31:17truly accepted,
31:18trusted,
31:19or loved him,
31:20would it light up.
31:21So the moment the,
31:22the bracelet turned red,
31:23he would trust me unconditionally.
31:24Hearing that,
31:25my heart suddenly trembled hard.
31:27I couldn't help asking him if true.
31:29Why did everyone call,
31:30him a cold blooded monster?
31:31Ken fell silent.
31:32Then he suddenly asked me whether I had read the journals.
31:35I nodded.
31:36I told him I had read every single word inside them.
31:39Ken looked away.
31:40Awkwardly.
31:40Even the tips of his ears turned faintly red.
31:42Muttering they were merely childish things from when he was younger.
31:46Seeing him like that,
31:47I suddenly couldn't stop myself from smiling.
31:49Ken was nothing like the war monster.
31:51If anything,
31:51he was almost cute.
31:53Thinking about the cat clan girls he had secretly,
31:55protected.
31:55Thinking about everything he had endured alone all these years.
31:58My chest suddenly ached.
31:59So I sat up and wrapped my arms around him.
32:01Then softly told,
32:02him that I truly felt heartbroken for the child he used to be.
32:05Hearing those words,
32:06Ken visibly froze.
32:07Then he gently held my waist and pressed me back onto the bed.
32:10His movements were a tender.
32:11And then a slow,
32:12restrained kiss softly fell against my lips.
32:16The air grew hotter.
32:18The soft bed dipped.
32:19Completely trapped within Ken's.
32:20Embrace.
32:21His breath brushed against my ear.
32:23My fingertips go numb.
32:24Meanwhile that.
32:25Dangerous leopard tail coiled around my ankle.
32:27Then gradually moved upward.
32:29He.
32:29He was tormenting me.
32:31Every touch made me tremble.
32:32Ken looked at my flushed face.
32:34Possessiveness impossible to suppress.
32:36My body went weak.
32:37Even my breathing.
32:38Had fallen into chaos.
32:40All I could do was tremble and softly beg him not to continue.
32:43Because I was pregnant.
32:44If this kept going,
32:45I would completely lose control.
32:47Hearing.
32:48That.
32:48Ken finally paused for a moment.
32:50Eyes carrying long restrained desire.
32:52Obviously it wasn't just me.
32:53Even he had not been satisfied.
32:55The room fell silent for.
32:56Several seconds.
32:57Then Ken suddenly let out a low laugh.
32:59Saying although they.
33:00Couldn't go all the way he still had other ways to make me feel good.
33:03His tail.
33:04Wrapped around me again.
33:05From my calf.
33:06It gradually slid higher toward my thigh.
33:08That faint teasing contact was even.
33:10Even more torturous than actual touch.
33:11My body.
33:12Instantly tensed.
33:13My breathing rose and fell uncontrollably.
33:15Little by little.
33:16Pushing me.
33:17Toward the edge of losing control.
33:19And throughout it all.
33:20Ken kept his eyes fixed on.
33:21Me.
33:22As if admiring every reaction I could no longer suppress.
33:27And then whoosh.
33:28Sharp sound slicing the air.
33:30Shattering the atmosphere.
33:30Next second.
33:31An arrow shot.
33:32Straight toward Ken.
33:32The intimate tension in the room was instantly destroyed.
33:34But Ken's reaction was unbelievably fast.
33:36He didn't even turn his head.
33:37He simply raised.
33:37A hand and caught the arrow firmly in midair.
33:39The arrow had stopped less than an inch from his eye.
33:41The room fell silent.
33:41Then Ken lowered his gaze toward the arrow.
33:43In his hand.
33:43Suffocating desire completely shattering.
33:45Warping into absolute freezing.
33:46Blood lust.
33:47In a low voice he said.
33:48The day has finally come.
33:50Ken thrust his hand out.
33:51Catching the arrow midair.
33:52Warmth and desire vanished instantly.
33:54It felt as though the room had frozen over.
33:56For the first time.
33:56I saw that expression on his face.
33:58Suppressed.
33:59Dangerous.
33:59Laced with cold murder.
34:01Anticipated for a very long time.
34:02Etched onto the tail.
34:03An ice blue crest.
34:03Unique to the mortal territory.
34:05Ken stared at the arrow for a very long time.
34:07So long that the silence in the room became terrifying.
34:09Then.
34:09In a low voice.
34:10He finally said.
34:11So.
34:11They finally found out.
34:12That night.
34:13Ken did not return until very late.
34:14Unique kept gnawing at me the entire time.
34:16Deep in the middle of the night.
34:17I had a terrible nightmare.
34:20In the dream.
34:21I was clutching my stomach.
34:22Desperately running alone.
34:24Through a forest.
34:25But the child inside me kept struggling in pain.
34:27I could even hear it.
34:28Cried clearly.
34:29That sound nearly drove me insane.
34:31Just when I was about to.
34:32Collapse a figure suddenly appeared.
34:34A man stood deep within the forest.
34:36I couldn't.
34:36To see his face.
34:37But his eyes remained fixed on me the entire time.
34:39His voice echoed.
34:41Through the darkness.
34:42If you want to protect your child.
34:44Then leave Ken.
34:47After that dream.
34:48I became increasingly restless.
34:50And just as my anxiety kept growing.
34:52Bella suddenly came to see me.
34:54She still looked at me.
34:56With the same disgust as before.
34:58There was no warmth in her eyes at all.
35:00The very first thing she said was.
35:02Ava.
35:02You are a disaster.
35:04Then she told me the Northern Territory had discovered our leopard.
35:07God contract had been completed.
35:09The child born from our union.
35:10Possessing power.
35:12Far beyond ordinary beast clan.
35:14If such a child were born.
35:16No other nation would.
35:17Allow it to live.
35:18Especially the North.
35:19They had already begun gathering their armies.
35:21They were even preparing to launch a war ahead of time.
35:23Bella looked at me coldly.
35:24Saying the Empire fell into unrest because of me.
35:26And once the North truly marched.
35:27To war more and more people would die.
35:29As for Ken.
35:30He would absolutely go to.
35:31To the battlefield.
35:32Just to protect me.
35:33Hearing that.
35:34My heart trembled violently.
35:35Because.
35:36I knew he truly would do it.
35:37That man had once said it himself.
35:39Even if the entire.
35:40The world stood against him he would still protect me.
35:42My fear grew as I realized that.
35:43The more afraid I became.
35:45Bella continued.
35:45If you really love him.
35:46Then leave.
35:47It is.
35:48The best choice.
35:49Those words pierced straight through my heart like a blade.
35:52That.
35:53The night I sat quietly at the bedside.
35:55Watching the sleeping Ken for a very long time.
35:57And in the end.
35:58I still gently let go of his hand.
36:00Then left the palace alone.
36:07That very night I still chose to leave.
36:09No goodbye.
36:10No message left.
36:11Behind.
36:12Because I knew if he wake up he would never allow me to go.
36:15The snowstorm raged endlessly around me.
36:19Alone.
36:19I left the royal city behind.
36:21The child inside my womb was becoming unstable.
36:24Along the journey whenever wild beasts approached.
36:27Golden power would automatically erupt from my body.
36:30I couldn't even control it myself.
36:31And the more it happened.
36:32The more terrified I became.
36:34Because the child's power.
36:35Had already surpassed anything I could have imagined.
36:38I desperately fled toward the northern territory.
36:40Because I knew the farther I stayed from the.
36:42Empire.
36:43The less likely war would break out.
36:45Until finally.
36:47Deep into the night.
36:48Blizzard completely swallowed the road ahead.
36:50At last I could no longer hold on.
36:52My body collapsed into the snow.
36:54And then I suddenly noticed something.
36:56In the.
36:56Distant snow field.
36:59A massive trail of footprints had appeared.
37:02The next second.
37:03Dozens of northern soldiers emerged from the storm.
37:08I turned and ran.
37:10But those northern soldiers were clearly pregnant.
37:13They even knew I was pregnant.
37:15Their voices echoed relentlessly into the blizzard.
37:19Don't let that child be dead.
37:21Kill you.
37:22I desperately tried to use my magic.
37:25My body had grown weaker during the pregnancy.
37:28Before long.
37:29I was cornered at the edge of a cliff.
37:31And just as they were about to strike.
37:34The child inside my womb suddenly began thrashing violently.
37:38The next second.
37:39A terrifying surge of golden power erupted instantly.
37:44Every soldier nearby was blasted away.
37:47Even the entire snow field began to crack apart.
37:51Everyone froze in shock.
37:53Because that child was actually protecting me.
37:56But after the power exploded.
37:58My body completely lost control as well.
38:02Agonizing pain instantly swept through every part of me.
38:06I collapsed to my knees in the snow.
38:08Blood stained the white ground beneath me.
38:11And in that moment.
38:12I realized the baby.
38:14Was about to be born.
38:17The snowstorm grew heavier.
38:19Nailing alone on frozen wasteland.
38:21Body completely drained of strength.
38:23Ruthless northern soldiers marching forward.
38:25Closing in, step by step.
38:27They knew as long as they killed me.
38:28That dangerous child would never be born.
38:29The leader had already raised his weapon.
38:31Just as they were about to charge forward.
38:33The child inside my womb suddenly began struggling violently.
38:35A blinding burst of golden light exploded from my body.
38:38Boom.
38:38Terrifying power instantly swept across the plane.
38:40The raging blizzard itself was blown away.
38:42The ground began cracking apart wildly beneath us.
38:45Northern soldiers thrown flying.
38:47Before reaching me.
38:48Some coughed blood on the spot.
38:49Others were swallowed directly by collapsing snow.
38:53Everyone was completely horrified by what they saw.
38:55Because that child.
38:56Had not even been born yet.
38:57And already possessed such terrifying power.
39:00And at last.
39:00I could no longer endure it.
39:02Pain consumed my entire body.
39:04Then.
39:04In the next second.
39:05Accompanied by the cry of a newborn baby.
39:06My child was born.
39:08Cradled in my shaking arms.
39:09The little girl opened her eyes.
39:10Those golden beast like eyes were exactly the same as Ken's.
39:15And finally.
39:16I completely collapsed.
39:17Holding my baby tightly.
39:18I fell into the endless storm.
39:20Blood spread across the white snow beneath me.
39:22Then suddenly.
39:22I felt something.
39:23The red bracelet around my wrist was beginning to grow warm.
39:25I lowered my head to look at it.
39:26The once brilliant crimson glow was starting to fade.
39:29That bracelet was the leopard god contract between Ken and me.
39:32And now.
39:32As the distance between us grew farther and farther.
39:34Its light was gradually disappearing too.
39:36I clenched the bracelet tightly in my hand.
39:38Tears finally spilled uncontrollably down my face.
39:40This time.
39:41After leaving.
39:41Would Ken and I.
39:42Never see each other again?
39:45Six years passed quickly.
39:46Hiding in a small town.
39:48Near the northern territory edge.
39:49With my daughter.
39:50I named her Alice.
39:51She was smart.
39:53Beautiful.
39:53But terrifyingly dangerous.
39:56Since she was little.
39:57She possessed power far beyond ordinary bees.
40:00Sometimes.
40:00When her emotions slipped out of control.
40:02Everything around her would explode instantly.
40:05Even wild beasts instinctively avoided her.
40:07So.
40:07Over the years.
40:08I had done everything possible to hide her identity.
40:10Who her father was.
40:13Meanwhile.
40:13Six years later.
40:14Ken had officially inherited the throne.
40:16He became the empire's new king.
40:17And now.
40:17He was even colder.
40:18And more ruthless than before.
40:19According to the rumors.
40:20No one dared disobey his commands.
40:22And no one dared mention my name anymore.
40:23It was as if I had never existed at all.
40:26Until that day.
40:27Alice secretly ran out of town on her own.
40:28Realizing it she was already gone.
40:30Instant panic consumed me.
40:31Northern forest filled with deadly beasts.
40:32I rushed into the forest like I had lost my mind.
40:34Calling Alice's name over and over and over again.
40:35But what we found her.
40:36I suddenly stopped dead in my tracks.
40:39Because not far away.
40:40Standing in the snow.
40:41Alice was with a man.
40:42And that man.
40:42Was Ken.
40:44Six years.
40:45His body carried an overwhelming pressure.
40:46Making others afraid to approach.
40:48At his feet lay a gigantic beast.
40:50Sliced cleanly in half by a single strike.
40:53Blood had nearly stained the entire snowfield red.
40:55Yet Alice was not afraid of him at all.
40:57She even walked toward him.
40:59Then reached out her tiny hand.
41:00And gently touched the leopard tail behind him.
41:03Exactly the same movement as my first full moon night.
41:05Six years ago.
41:06The next second.
41:07Alice suddenly lifted her head.
41:08Those golden beast like eyes stared directly at Ken.
41:11Then.
41:12In her soft childish voice.
41:13She asked.
41:15Why are your eyes the same as mine?
41:19We returned to the cabin together.
41:21The entire room.
41:22Fell completely silent.
41:24Step by step.
41:25Ken walked toward me.
41:26After six years apart.
41:27The pressure radiating even even more dangerous.
41:29Especially those golden beast like eyes.
41:31As though he had finally recovered.
41:32He had prayed he once lost.
41:33I had barely opened my mouth.
41:35When he grabbed my wrist.
41:36The next second.
41:36He pinned me against the door.
41:38Where else are you planning to run?
41:40Because over these six years.
41:42Imagined countless versions of reuniting.
41:45But never once like this.
41:46As though he truly wanted to swallow me whole.
41:49The next second.
41:50Ken wrapped an arm around my waist.
41:51Lifting me onto the bed.
41:53Lowering his head to kiss me.
41:54Fiercely.
41:55My legs nearly gave out.
41:56Instantly.
41:57That familiar scent completely invaded my breathing.
42:00Ken's hand sliding upward along my waist.
42:03Burning palm brushing my body.
42:05Numbness is spreading through me.
42:07Six years.
42:08But Ken seemed finally satisfied by it.
42:11Your body is still extensive.
42:13Calloused fingers unlicing my gown.
42:16Tracing a line across my chest.
42:17Fabric parting.
42:18Bare skin exposed.
42:20Shivering.
42:21Ken.
42:22Do you know what I wanted most during these six years?
42:26His lips brushed against my colophon.
42:29My breathing growing more uneven.
42:31Ava.
42:32Do you know?
42:33For the past six years.
42:34All I could think about was hunting you down.
42:38Dragging you back to this bed.
42:40And breaking you.
42:42He completely lost control.
42:44Claiming my body and driving himself deeply into me.
42:47Alice remained curled up on the bed.
42:49Hugging her tiny blanket.
42:51Sleeping soundly.
42:53Completely unaware that her parents were tangled together once again after six long years apart.
42:59The next day, Ken brought both me and Alice back.
43:02Returning here again after six years I felt so suffocated I could barely breathe.
43:07Because I knew this place had never truly welcomed me.
43:09And now, I had returned with a child who possessed terrifying power.
43:13Along the way, everyone secretly stared at Alice.
43:16Especially when her golden beast-like eyes appeared.
43:19Some of the maids were so frightened, they didn't even dare approach her.
43:22But Alice didn't understand any of that.
43:24It was her first time seeing such a huge palace.
43:27She ran around excitedly everywhere.
43:29She even kept clinging to Ken non-stop.
43:32And although Ken still looked cold on the surface.
43:34He never pushed her away even once.
43:36For the first time in my life, I saw the man feared by the entire empire patiently accompanying a child.
43:42But at that exact moment something unexpected happened.
43:45Alice had only been playing with a small beast pet.
43:47But when she became too excited, boom!
43:50A terrifying burst of golden power exploded instantly.
43:53The entire hall shattered apart.
43:54Every crystal chandelier around us burst into pieces.
43:57Even the floor began collapsing.
43:59The nobles screamed in terror.
44:01Some were directly thrown backward by the shockwave.
44:03And Alice herself became frightened too.
44:05She stood frozen in place, staring helplessly at her own hands.
44:09Everyone looked at Alice in horror.
44:11Because at that moment, they finally realized the child's power had already become dangerously uncontrollable.
44:18That very night, I had just managed to coax Alice to sleep.
44:22The doors shoved open violently.
44:24I turned around sharply.
44:25Bella had actually entered together with the Empress.
44:27And behind them, stood a large group of royal guards.
44:31I instinctively realized I stepped in front of Alice.
44:33But Bella only looked at me with a cold sneer.
44:37Ava!
44:37Just look at the monster you raised!
44:40When you ran away for six years, you nearly dragged the entire Empire into war.
44:44And now you still have the nerve to remain in the palace?
44:47Blood immediately spread across the corner of my mouth.
44:50But I couldn't care less about the pain.
44:52Because Bella suddenly grabbed Alice.
44:55Alice was startled awake instantly.
44:57Crying, she reached her arms toward me.
44:59I lunged toward her like I had gone mad.
45:02But the guards forced me violently onto the floor.
45:05Meanwhile, the Empress simply looked one at me coldly.
45:08From this day forward, Alice will be raised by the royal family.
45:12As for me, I no longer have the right to remain by her side.
45:17I desperately tried to take Alice back.
45:19But the guards pinned me down tightly.
45:21Face pressed to the freezing floor.
45:23I couldn't even stand up.
45:24And Alice was still crying.
45:26Reaching toward me over and over.
45:27At that moment, it felt as though my heart was being torn apart alive.
45:31Yet the Empress merely watched everything coldly.
45:34Then she spoke.
45:35Take the child to the temple.
45:37Without my permission, Ava is forbidden from going anywhere near Alice.
45:40I completely lost control.
45:42I struggled with everything I had.
45:43Fingernails scraping until tearing open.
45:45Bleeding.
45:46Then, in the next second, Bella suddenly stepped down hard onto my back.
45:49Heel viciously grinding.
45:50Against wounds.
45:51Pain shot through my entire body instantly.
45:52I trembled uncontrollably.
45:54But, Bella only bent down beside me.
45:56Laughing softly near my ear.
45:57Ava, do you really think you can still be queen?
46:00The Empress only cares about one thing.
46:02That child.
46:03After saying that, she suddenly grabbed my hair harshly.
46:06Forcing me to watch as Alice was dragged away.
46:09Alice cried so hard, her voice became hoarse.
46:11And she even began losing control of her power again.
46:14Golden magic violently shook the entire palace hall.
46:17But in the next instant, the Empress struck her staff against the floor.
46:20Boom.
46:21A purple seal instantly descended onto Alice's body.
46:24Alice immediately collapsed to the ground in pain.
46:26Her tiny body trembled non-stop.
46:28The moment I saw that I completely broke down.
46:30Like a mad woman.
46:31I tore myself free from the guards.
46:34And threw myself desperately toward her.
46:38After Alice was taken away, I almost completely lost my mind.
46:41Bella looked like getting revenge along.
46:43The surveillance immediately locked cold chains around my wrists.
46:46Metal digging deep into skin.
46:48Hands going numb from pain.
46:49Bella sat on elevated seat.
46:51Watching me like a performance.
46:52My skin split open and...
46:53Crack!
46:55But Bella only laughed.
46:57Continue.
46:58Beat her and...
46:59Then came the second lash.
47:01The third.
47:02Blood streaming down my back.
47:04Alice was crying out for me.
47:05I began to regret everything.
47:07Regret coming back.
47:08If it weren't for me...
47:10Alice would be safe.
47:11And never have been taken away.
47:14I didn't know how much time had passed.
47:16My body collapsed heavily onto the floor.
47:17And just before I completely lost consciousness...
47:20Ken, it's not what it looks like.
47:33The doors kicked open.
47:35The room fell silent.
47:36I lay on the floor covered in blood.
47:37My consciousness was already faded.
47:39But even so, I recognized that figure instantly.
47:41It was...
47:41Punishment?
47:43Bella completely panicked.
47:44She frantic leapt.
47:45Desperately tried to explain.
47:46She said it was all the Queen's order.
47:48When you use the Soul Devouring Whip...
47:50Do you ever think about how you were going to die?
48:10Throw Bella into the pit of death.
48:11She is never to come out again.
48:12Bella completely broke down.
48:14Because everyone in the Empire knew what the pit of death was.
48:16A prison filled with the most terrifying monsters alive.
48:20Crawling to grab his clothes.
48:21Living.
48:21But Ken to send never looked at her again.
48:23He only tightened his arms around me.
48:26His voice had become...
48:27Unbearably hoarse.
48:28I failed to protect you.
48:31For the next several days...
48:33Ken barely left my side.
48:35The dear healer came every day to treat my wounds.
48:41And Alice was finally brought back to me.
48:44That day...
48:45The little girl saw me.
48:47Bursting into tears.
48:48Throwing herself into my arms.
48:50She kept...
48:51Crying and calling for me over and over.
48:53And at last...
48:54I couldn't hold back anymore.
48:56I hugged her tightly and broke down crying too.
48:59Ken simply stood nearby quietly.
49:01Watching us.
49:03And in that moment...
49:05I felt like every bit of pain I had endured was worth it.
49:10Later...
49:10Ken prepared another wedding for me.
49:12But this time...
49:13There was no trial.
49:14No contract.
49:14And no one forcing me into anything.
49:16The entire palace was...
49:17Covered in a sea of golden flowers.
49:19I wore a wedding dress...
49:20That truly belonged to me.
49:21Day of the ceremony.
49:23Watching me.
49:23Those eyes that were...
49:25Always cold and intimidating for the first time.
49:27They were impossibly gentle.
49:29He...
49:29Walked toward me step by step.
49:31Then...
49:32In front of the entire empire...
49:34He gently kissed the back of my hand.
49:37This time...
49:38He said softly...
49:39No one will ever take you away from me again.
49:42And Alice happily threw herself into our arms.
49:45Golden flower petals...
49:47Drifted down from the sky.
49:49And finally I understood something.
49:52True happiness was never about running away.
49:55It was about having someone willing to protect you with everything they had.
50:01I'll see you next time.
50:01I'll see you next time.
50:01Bye-bye.
50:01Bye-bye.
50:01Bye-bye.
50:01Bye-bye.
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