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Don't miss a single moment of this captivating short drama. We bring you the best billionaire romance, intense revenge stories, and high-quality web series tailored for you.
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Disclaimer: All content is properly licensed and distributed.
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Short filmTranscript
00:00The night my father lay dying, my husband Leon walked into my room with his widowed sister-in-law, Vivian.
00:06Aaliyah, he said.
00:08Vivian has no children. I have to marry her and carry on my late brother's bloodline.
00:13I looked at him, then at the woman hiding behind him with reddened eyes.
00:19So you want me to smile and nod while you marry your brother's widow and have children with her?
00:24Leon frowned.
00:25This is a family obligation, Aaliyah, not a betrayal.
00:28I laughed. Three years ago when his family went bankrupt, it was my fortune that paid their debts.
00:33The only reason he was sitting in the royal court as royal treasurer was because my father had used his
00:37military meritits to open that door for him.
00:39Now my father was dying, and instead of staying by his bedside, Leon had come to inform me that he
00:44was taking a second wife.
00:46Vivian lowered her gaze.
00:47Sister, I only want to leave a child behind for my late husband. I'm not trying to take your place.
00:52I looked at her. Not taking my place? Just taking my husband's bed?
00:57Her face instantly turned pale.
01:00Enough!
01:01Aaliyah!
01:02Leon slammed his hand against the table. I met his glare.
01:06What?
01:07You plan to give your brother an heir without sharing a bed?
01:10Does a second consort not bear children?
01:15Are you two planning to continue the bloodline through a closed door?
01:20Vivian's face went even wider.
01:22Suppressing his anger, Leon said,
01:24I didn't come here to ask for permission.
01:26I came to inform you.
01:29Vivian will become my second consort.
01:31The decision has already been made.
01:35Inform me?
01:37Yes.
01:38I nodded.
01:39Fine.
01:40Then let me inform you of something too.
01:43His expression tightened?
01:46My sister, Selina, died with a fiancé.
01:49I paused.
01:50His name is Cain.
01:51A frontier knight.
01:53The Valen family has no male heir.
01:55I intend to continue my sister's bloodline as well.
01:58Vivian gasped.
01:59Have you lost your mind?
02:01I turned toward her.
02:03If you can do it, why can't I?
02:06I'm a man!
02:07I'm fulfilling my responsibility to the family!
02:09Leon barked.
02:10I smiled coldly.
02:12So marrying your brother's widow is a noble duty, but continuing my late sister's line makes me insane?
02:17Your brother's widow deserves sympathy, but my sister's fiancé doesn't?
02:20The main Ashfield line can't be allowed to die out, but the Valen family should simply disappear?
02:26Leon stared at me.
02:28You would actually let Cain touch you?
02:30I raised an eyebrow.
02:32If you're willing to touch Vivian, why shouldn't I let him touch me?
02:37Silence swallowed the room.
02:39Only Vivian's trembling breaths remained.
02:41I handed the Valen family seal to Lucy.
02:45Take this to the castle.
02:47Send word to Cain.
02:48Tell him the Valen family intends to honor the old betrothal.
02:52You're not going anywhere!
02:53Leon lunged forward and grabbed Lucy's arm.
02:56I snatched up a silver goblet and hurled it at his feet.
03:00Wine splashed across his boots.
03:04Leon Ashford.
03:05My voice turned icy.
03:07If you dare stop my people.
03:08I'll march straight into the palace and let the queen see exactly how her precious royal thresher
03:13pressures a high marshal's daughter into surrendering her husband to his widowed sister-in-law.
03:21His hand froze in mid-air.
03:23I walked over to Vivian and adjusted the pearl clasp on her black dress.
03:29Don't worry.
03:30I'll make sure your wedding as second constant is absolutely magnificent.
03:34Then I looked at Leon.
03:36The same day.
03:37The same night.
03:38You go to her room.
03:40I'll go to Cain's.
03:42For the first time, Leon's face turned white.
03:44The next morning, Vivian arrived sooner than I expected.
03:48I had just finished changing into my riding clothes when she entered my room with two maids.
03:52A ruby brooch glittered on her chest.
03:54Red as a drop of blood.
03:55My mother's ruby.
03:57Part of my dowry.
03:58I stared at it.
03:59Leon gave that to you.
04:01Vivian touched the gemstone and smiled sweetly.
04:04He said black was too plain on me.
04:06The ruby suited me better.
04:08You don't mind.
04:10Do you, sister?
04:11She tilted her head.
04:12Lucy stepped forward furiously.
04:14That belongs to Lady Alia!
04:16Vivian glanced at her.
04:18Alia and I will soon be family.
04:19Surely I can borrow one of her things.
04:22I asked.
04:23Does Leon know that's part of my dowager estate?
04:25Her smile deepened.
04:26Of course he does.
04:27He said what's yours is his and if it's his, he can give it to me.
04:30I walked toward her.
04:31She instinctively took half a step back, though her voice remained defiant.
04:35What are you going to do?
04:36Hit me?
04:36Leon is downstairs.
04:38I reached out and removed the ruby brooch from her dress.
04:40Give it back!
04:41Her expression changed immediately.
04:43Instead, I turned and threw it into the fire.
04:47The ruby vanished into the coals.
04:49Its gold setting blackened instantly.
04:51Vivian screamed.
04:52Are you insane?
04:54Leon gave me that?
04:54No.
04:55I watched the flames.
04:58He stole it and gave it to you.
05:00That's a lie!
05:01He's your husband!
05:02A husband doesn't receive immunity for theft.
05:04She rushed toward the fireplace, only to retreat from the heat as spilled down her cheeks.
05:09Right on cue, the door burst open.
05:11Leon strode inside.
05:13The moment he saw Vivian crying, he pulled her protectively into his arms.
05:16I laughed.
05:18Alia, you're bullying her again?
05:19You got here awfully fast.
05:22How long were you standing outside listening?
05:24His expression stiffened.
05:26Vivian tugged at his sleeve.
05:28Don't blame her.
05:28She's hurting.
05:30If the brooch is ruined, it's ruined.
05:32I'm fine.
05:33I smiled.
05:34The brooch didn't burn your skin.
05:37So what exactly hurts?
05:39Vivian choked on her words.
05:42Leon snapped.
05:44Apologize.
05:45To whom?
05:46To Vivian.
05:47I stared at him.
05:48She stole my property.
05:50I destroyed my own property.
05:53And you want me to apologize?
05:54I gave it to her!
05:56You stole my belongings.
05:58To buy someone's affection and you're proud enough to raise your voice about it?
06:02His face darkened.
06:04Don't forget.
06:05You're still my wife.
06:07I met his graze.
06:08And don't forget.
06:10You're still sitting in the royal court because of the Valen family.
06:14That left him speechless.
06:16Leaning against his chest, Vivian whispered softly.
06:19Leon, let it go.
06:21Alia is suffering.
06:22I don't mind a little hardship.
06:25Once I give you a child, she'll understand I'm not here to take anything from her.
06:31I looked at her.
06:33You're absolutely right.
06:35Her eyes brightened.
06:36You're not here to take what's mine.
06:38I smiled.
06:39You're here to pick up what I've already thrown away.
06:41The fragile expression nearly cracked off her face.
06:44Leon stepped forward angrily.
06:46Your words are becoming unbearable.
06:49Then stop listening.
06:51You.
06:52Footsteps echoed from the doorway.
06:54The old Valen steward entered with two officials from the royal Chandris.
06:59Leon frowned.
07:00What are they doing here?
07:01I picked up a document from the desk and handed it over.
07:05Seal all of my Dowie estate.
07:08Starting today, any member of the Ashurd family who spends a single gold coin
07:12must record the purpose and obtain a royal seal.
07:15The officials vowed.
07:16Yes, my lady.
07:17Leon exploded.
07:19You bring outsiders in to investigate my household?
07:21Your household?
07:22I laughed.
07:22The bread you eat, the wine you drink, the necklaces you buy for Vivian?
07:25How much of that wasn't squeezed out of my dowry?
07:28If I don't investigate, should I just wait for you to sell me too?
07:30Sister, if people hear about this, Leon will be humiliated.
07:34Vivian spoke softly.
07:35When Leon announced he was marrying you as his second consangort last night,
07:39he didn't seem worried about humiliating me.
07:41I only want a child.
07:43Tears instantly welled in her eyes again.
07:46What a coincidence.
07:48I smiled.
07:49So do I.
07:50Leon snapped his head toward me.
07:52One of the officials produced a parchment scroll.
07:56The Valon family has submitted a formal petition to the crown.
08:02Sir Cain will enter the Valon family through a house marriage pact as the fiancée of the late Lady Selina.
08:07Any children born from the Yune will inherit the Valon name.
08:10Sir Cain will arrive in Silvercrest in three days.
08:12If neither party objects, the ceremony may be held seven days from now.
08:16Seven days?
08:17But that's the same day Leon and I...
08:21Exactly.
08:22The same day.
08:23I took the parchment.
08:26You did this on purpose.
08:29Yes.
08:31Yes.
08:31I smiled pleasantly.
08:32If your wedding chamber is going to be lively, mine shouldn't be lonely.
08:36He stared at me.
08:37For the first time, genuine panic flickered in his eyes.
08:41Alia.
08:42You can't humiliate me like this.
08:44I stepped close and straightened his collar.
08:47You taught me this lesson yourself, Leon.
08:49If you can invoke ancient tradition to continue your brother's bloodline, then I can continue the Valon bloodline legacy for
08:55my sister.
08:56Our reasons are identical.
08:58If you think this is humiliation, then perhaps you should ask yourself who started it.
09:02The next seven days passed quickly.
09:04White Lapertary covered Ashcrest Manor.
09:06They claimed the ceremony was about continuing a dead man's bloodline, so there would be no red decorations and no
09:11musicians.
09:12Yet Vivian's silver white gown to cross the floor behind her glittered in her hair.
09:15She looked far less like a grieving widow and far more like a woman eager to become a bride again.
09:20When I came downstairs, she was already holding Leon's arm and accepting congratulations from relatives.
09:30The moment they saw me, conversations dropped to whispers.
09:35Vivian approached with a smile.
09:38Sister, you're going to Valonkeep today too?
09:43Yes.
09:44How fortunate.
09:46Her smile widened.
09:49I thought you might stay and watch at Leon and me complete our ceremony.
09:54I looked at Leon.
09:57You want me to watch?
09:58His throat tightened.
10:00He seemed ready to say something cruel.
10:02Then he noticed the dark crimson gown I wore and the silver dagger at my waist.
10:07In the end, he only said coldly,
10:11You can still stop this.
10:13Stop?
10:14I laughed.
10:14And stay to watch the two of you disappear into a bedroom?
10:18We're only doing this for the family.
10:20Vivian spoke gently.
10:23So am I.
10:24The smile faded from her face.
10:26Leon lowered his voice.
10:29Aaliyah.
10:29This is your last chance.
10:31Stay.
10:33Apologize to Vivian.
10:34And I'll let the matter go.
10:35I stared at him.
10:36Let what go?
10:37The fact that I didn't kneel and beg?
10:40The fact that I didn't cry enough to satisfy you?
10:43Or the fact that I found another path for myself?
10:45His voice darkened.
10:48You weren't like this before.
10:50Before?
10:52I smiled.
10:55Before, I was blind.
10:59Vivian sucked in a sharp breath.
11:02Leon's face turned black with fury.
11:05I walked past them.
11:07His voice followed me.
11:08If you climb into Cain's bed tonight, don't ever expect me to touch you again!
11:13I stopped.
11:14Then I looked back and smiled.
11:16That's the nicest thing you've said all day.
11:20The chapel at Valenkeep blazed with candlelight far brighter than anything at Ashworth Manor.
11:26My father sat in a high-backed chair.
11:29Illness had drained the color from his face, but his eyes remained as sharp as an old sword.
11:34Do you really have no regrets?
11:37My mother squeezed my hand.
11:39I smiled faintly.
11:40I do.
11:43She looked at me quietly.
11:45I regret marrying Leon.
11:48Her eyes reddened, but she said nothing.
11:52The chapel doors opened.
11:54Cain walked in.
11:55He was taller than I remembered.
11:57Broad shoulders.
11:58A powerful frame.
11:59Even the dark form militarily couldn't soften the edge that came from years on the frontier.
12:04The northern winds had darkened his skin, but his features remained clean and straightforward,
12:08free of the perfume-soaked arrogance common among noblemen.
12:12Lady Alia.
12:14He stopped before me and dropped to one knee.
12:16I shook my head.
12:22After tonight, you'll need a different title.
12:25He looked up.
12:27If this is only about revenge, I can leave right now.
12:31The money the Valen family spent treating your sister, I'll repay every coin.
12:36You don't have to sacrifice yourself.
12:40My father's expression immediately dartened.
12:43Boy!
12:44His voice rang through the chapel.
12:48Are you saying my daughter isn't good enough for you?
12:51I wouldn't dare.
12:53Cain immediately lowered his head.
12:55My mother asked.
12:58Then why wouldn't you agree?
13:00He paused for a moment.
13:02She just came out of a bad marriage.
13:04I'm afraid I'd become another force pushing her.
13:08My chest softened suddenly.
13:10Leon had forced me to comply.
13:14Vivian had forced me to yield.
13:17Everyone else asked if I would be reasonable.
13:20Only Cain asked if I was willing.
13:21I stepped closer to him.
13:24Cain.
13:25I want you to do three things.
13:28Go ahead.
13:30First.
13:31Any future child carries the Valen name.
13:34Agreed.
13:36Second.
13:37You won't touch my dower estate.
13:39You won't claim my castle.
13:40And you won't use my name to oppress anyone.
13:44Agreed.
13:45Third.
13:45If one day you no longer respect me, you leave the Valen family on your own.
13:50He looked up, a smile in his eyes.
13:52That's acceptable too.
13:54I extended my hand.
13:56And you?
13:58What do you want?
14:00Cain held my hand without rising immediately.
14:03I want a fair place.
14:05Not a tool for revenge against Leon.
14:08Not a lowly knight, kept by a noble woman.
14:11He spoke slowly.
14:12I can shed blood for the Valen family and give you a child.
14:16But when you look at me I want you to see Cain, not the opposite of Leon.
14:22I studied him for a long moment.
14:24Then I said, deal.
14:26When the officials read the marriage contract I heard the bells toll outside.
14:30At the same moment Ashcroft Manor was probably sending Leon and Vivian to their room.
14:34Ridiculous.
14:35He thought it was my execution.
14:37Yet standing here, I suddenly felt free, as if stepping out of a cage.
14:43After the ceremony, Cain escorted me back to my room.
14:47The moment the door closed, he let go of my hand and stepped three spes back.
14:53Tonight I sleep in the outer room.
14:58I asked.
14:59You don't want to complete the marriage pact?
15:01His ears tinged red, but his voice was steady.
15:05I do.
15:06But not when you're sulking.
15:09I stepped closer, and if I'm not sulk, he met my gaze, his breath catching slightly.
15:15I reached up and unbastened his collar.
15:17Cain, for three years a man has disgust me under the guise of being my husband.
15:21Tonight, I want to remember a different kind of man.
15:23His voice was low and hoarse.
15:25Are you certain?
15:26Before I kissed him, I whispered.
15:28Certain.
15:28At dawn, Lucy knocked on the door.
15:31Madam, Lord Leon has arrived.
15:33I had just opened my eyes.
15:35Cain was already sitting up, reaching for his sword.
15:39I held his hand.
15:41No rush.
15:42Lucy's voice trembled with excitement.
15:44He asked if you really let Cain into your room.
15:46I looked at the kiss marks on my neck in the mirror and smiled.
15:49Tell him yes, and tell him Cain behaved well.
15:52A brief silence followed.
15:54Then Lucy's voice, trembling with joy, replied.
15:56Yes, madam.
15:57When Leon charged into the Valen Hall, his face was paler than the snow of the Frostwields.
16:03He brought over a dozen Ashford guards, looking as if he was coming to catch a thief or seize someone.
16:08I sat at the long table with hot wine, Cain at my side, the scratches I left on him last
16:14night, faintly visible beneath his collar.
16:18Leon noticed immediately, his gaze wild with fury.
16:24Did you really sleep with him?
16:26He demanded.
16:29I set down my cup.
16:32You slept with Vivian last night, didn't you?
16:35That was for the family.
16:36He shouted.
16:37So was I.
16:39You didn't.
16:41Then tell me.
16:42Where exactly did I not?
16:44You are my wife!
16:45He panted angrily.
16:47Vivian is your brother's wife, too.
16:49Brian is dead!
16:52Selina is dead, too.
16:54He was at a loss for words, his face turning green.
16:56Vivian followed, her eyes swollen, but her hands clutched Leon's sleeve tightly.
17:00Alia, how can you hurt Leon like this?
17:02He was uneasy all night.
17:03Even I.
17:04She suddenly stopped, realizing she had almost revealed too much.
17:07I smiled.
17:08Even you couldn't serve him properly?
17:10Some in the hall lowered their heads to stifle laughter.
17:12Vivian's face flushed instantly.
17:14Leon roared.
17:15Silence!
17:16Silence!
17:18I can't.
17:19I said, standing up.
17:22Yesterday, when you went into her room, you didn't make her silent.
17:26Why should I be silent in my own house today?
17:29Come back with me.
17:30He raised his voice.
17:32Back for what?
17:34To kneel in your family chapel and hear your mother scold me for not being dutiful?
17:39Or to watch you and Vivian act out your deep affections before me again?
17:44As long as you cancel the marriage pact with Cain, I can pretend last night never happened.
17:51Cain's hand rested on the sword hilt.
17:53I reached out to stop him.
17:56Leon.
17:57Your words are interesting.
17:59You slept with Vivian?
18:01I'm supposed to endure it?
18:04I sleep with Cain, and you want to pretend it didn't happen?
18:10What, do you control every bed in the world?
18:15Leon gritted his teeth.
18:16I'm a man.
18:17You are worthless.
18:18I enunciated slowly.
18:19He lunged forward, and the guards moved with him.
18:22In the next moment, every valent night drew his sword.
18:24My father, supported by the steward, emerged from the side door.
18:27Hickened you, his voice nonetheless commanded everyone to halt.
18:30John Ashford, you bring soldiers into my castle.
18:33Is this treason, or are you looking for death?
18:34High Marshal, I only came to retrieve my wife.
18:37Leon's face changed, and he immediately bowed his head.
18:41Didn't you already bring back your brother's widow?
18:44My father snurred.
18:45What, is the Ashford bed too small to contain your greed?
18:49Vivian's face went pale.
18:51My mother helped my father sit, her eyes sweeping over Leon, just in time.
18:55The royal physician is here, too.
18:56We want to know, after three years without children, if it really isn't my daughter's fault.
19:02Leon's expression stiffened.
19:03What do you mean?
19:04It means my daughter is healthy.
19:07She can ride, shoot a bow, manage a castle.
19:12If three years of childlessness occurred, it's likely your fault, not hers.
19:16Mother replied evenly.
19:18You dare humiliate me?
19:19A heavy silence fell over the hall.
19:21Leon's face flushed from white to red, then blue.
19:23Mother smiled.
19:24Humiliate?
19:25When you forced my daughter to yield to her widowed sister-in-law, didn't you feel humiliated?
19:29Now you hear the truth and you can't bear it?
19:33Leon is healthy.
19:34Vivian quickly added.
19:37I looked at her.
19:38How do you know?
19:40Did you test him secretly?
19:44Vivian was speechless.
19:46Leon shouted.
19:48Enough!
19:48Bring the physician!
19:50If there's nothing wrong with me,
19:53Aliyah must cancel the marriage with Cain and return with me to the Ashford family.
19:59Mother didn't blink.
20:04And if you do have a problem?
20:06He gritted his teeth.
20:11I'll sign the legal separation order.
20:14I said,
20:16Not enough.
20:17I want a formal dissolution.
20:19Old Dower State returned.
20:21No Ashford may use the Valon name again.
20:25And Vivian shall not receive a single silver coin from me.
20:28Leon glared at me.
20:30You truly intend to leave me?
20:32Yes.
20:33Pain flickered in his eyes,
20:34as if realizing I wasn't just being petty.
20:37But it was too late.
20:39The royal physicians arrived swiftly.
20:41Leon initially stood straight,
20:43trying to prove something.
20:44The first physician finished the examination without a word.
20:48The second looked uneasy.
20:49The third set down his medical box and bowed to my father.
20:53Lord Ashford suffered a high fever in childhood,
20:56damaging his foundations.
20:58If he is to father children,
21:00it will be extremely difficult.
21:02Vivian's face turned pale.
21:04Leon shot to his feet.
21:05Impossible!
21:07Three years without a child,
21:09not because my daughter cannot,
21:10but because you cannot.
21:12Mother said coldly,
21:13Shut up!
21:15I stepped in front of him.
21:20After all the effort you put in with Vivian last night,
21:24it seems it was all for nothing.
21:27Leon raised his hand,
21:29as if to strike him.
21:30Cain grabbed his wrist,
21:31pressing him down to the floor.
21:35Show respect to Lady Valor.
21:39Leon's eyes were red with humiliation.
21:42I crouched and stared at him.
21:45Sign the legal separation order.
21:47No.
21:49Sign the decree of dissolution.
21:52Otherwise,
21:53I will take all three physicians to the royal court
21:56and show every noble that Lord Ashford married a widow not to inherit,
22:00but to prove he still has the strength of a man.
22:04His breaths came like broken bellows.
22:06Finally,
22:07he signed,
22:08hands trembling.
22:09I took the document and handed it to the officials for sealing.
22:13Vivian suddenly leapt forward.
22:14Leon,
22:15don't sign!
22:16If you do,
22:17what will we do?
22:19Leon threw her off.
22:20Silence!
22:22I watched them bicker like dogs
22:25and felt an unprecedented calm.
22:32Before leaving the hall,
22:34Leon turned to me.
22:36Alia,
22:37you will regret this.
22:39What can Cain give you?
22:43He's just a lowly knight.
22:45I linked my arm with Cain's.
22:48What he gave me last night is already more than what you have given me in three years.
22:54Leon's face was utterly shattered.
22:56The news spread,
22:57and Silvercrest was abuzz for three full days.
23:00Some scolded me for being unorthodox,
23:01having a husband while taking betrothed man to continue my late sister's bloodline.
23:05Others scolded Leon for being shameless,
23:07marrying his widowed sister-in-law and unable to tolerate me doing the same.
23:11And some quietly inquired about Cain,
23:14wondering what skill allowed Miss Valen to abandon her former husband in a single night.
23:19When Lucy related the rumors from the street,
23:22she laughed so hard she could barely stand.
23:27Madam,
23:28people say Lord Leon is surely furious.
23:31He's not furious.
23:33I said,
23:34flipping through account books.
23:37He's just near bankruptcy.
23:39After sealing the Dower estate,
23:41the Ashford family's financial gaps became evident faster than I imagined.
23:46They used my gold coins for household expenses,
23:49my jewels to gift Vivian,
23:51even forged my signature trying to mortgage Valen properties
23:54in Silvercrest.
23:55The day I delivered the evidence to the Royal Chancery,
23:58Leon came again.
24:00This time he brought no guards,
24:02only exhaustion and anger.
24:04Alea,
24:05must you wipe them out completely?
24:07I sat in the study,
24:09not letting him take a seat.
24:11A thief claiming the victim is merciless,
24:13that's novel.
24:14His voice low.
24:19That money was taken by my mother,
24:21I didn't know.
24:22The ruby brooch you gave Vivian
24:23was that your mother slipping it into your hands too?
24:25He remained silent.
24:28I sneered.
24:29Don't push women forward whenever trouble comes.
24:35Your treatment of Vivian,
24:37your mother,
24:38and me,
24:39is all the same.
24:40Leon stepped closer,
24:42his expression softening suddenly.
24:44Aaliyah,
24:45must it come to this?
24:46We've had good times too.
24:48My fingers paused.
24:50He said,
24:51You forgot when we first married.
24:53You promised to stand by me in the Royal Court.
24:57I haven't forgotten.
24:58I looked at him.
25:00Nor have I forgotten that once you stood firm,
25:02the first thing you did was push me under Vivian's feet.
25:05His eyes reddened slightly.
25:07I was just annoyed by her crying.
25:12No.
25:13I said,
25:14You enjoyed her need for you,
25:16and you enjoyed hurting me.
25:18Leon stiffened.
25:19I continued,
25:21You wanted to see me jealous,
25:22see me bow,
25:24prove that the High Marshal's daughter could go mad for you,
25:27but you didn't expect I would truly not want you.
25:31I never wanted to lose you.
25:33You just never wanted to lose my utility.
25:36Suddenly,
25:37hurried footsteps came from the door.
25:38Lucy pushed it open,
25:39face grim.
25:40Madam,
25:41Vivian is outside the Royal Court,
25:43crying that you forced Leon to sign the decree of Dissolucius,
25:45and claiming you and Cain already had an affair.
25:48Leon's face changed.
25:50I looked at him.
25:51Did you teach her?
25:53No.
25:54Then you should be thankful she bites faster than you.
25:57I stood.
25:58Prepare the carriage.
26:00We leave for the Royal Court.
26:02Leon urged.
26:03Aaliyah,
26:03this could have been handled privately.
26:05I smiled.
26:06I gave you a chance for private decency.
26:09You refused.
26:10Now face public disgrace.
26:12Outside the Royal Court,
26:13a crowd had gathered.
26:14Vivian knelt on the steps,
26:16crying in helpless sorrow.
26:18I only wanted to leave a child for Brian,
26:21but Aaliyah won't allow me.
26:22She seduced Cain first,
26:24forced Leon to annul the marriage,
26:26and now wants the Ashfield family's wealth.
26:28Some sympathized with her.
26:30Others watched the spectacle.
26:31I stepped down from the carriage,
26:33and the crowd instinctively parted.
26:35I lifted my chin toward Vivian.
26:37The moment she saw me,
26:39her sobbing grew louder.
26:40Please, Aaliyah,
26:41just let me go.
26:42I have nothing left.
26:45I walked up to her.
26:47The pearl necklace around your neck
26:48was still listed in my Dowd Estate inventory yesterday.
26:51My eyes swept over the pearls.
26:53If you think you have nothing,
26:54is it because stolen property
26:55doesn't count as property?
26:56The crowd immediately erupted into whispers.
26:59Vivian's face went pale.
27:01Leon gave it to me.
27:05Excellent.
27:07I turned to the royal chancery official.
27:10Record that.
27:11Vivian has admitted to receiving stolen marital property.
27:14Panic flashed across her face.
27:16That's not what I meant!
27:17I crouched down and gripped her chin,
27:19forcing her to meet my eyes.
27:21Vivian, don't you love crying?
27:23Then cry inside the royal court.
27:25Cry until the queen hears every detail.
27:27Tell her how you and Leon stole my property.
27:30Tell her how continuing your late husband's bloodline
27:32was supposedly sacred.
27:33And tell her why.
27:36When I chose to continue my late sister's bloodline,
27:39you suddenly called me unfaithful.
27:41Her voice trembled.
27:43You can't do this to me.
27:45I smiled.
27:47When you wore my ruby,
27:49did you ever wonder whether I could?
27:51Leon strode forward.
27:54Enough, Aaliyah!
27:55Cain stepped between us.
27:56The two men locked eyes,
27:58neither moved.
27:59Leon stared at him.
28:02Feeling proud of yourself now?
28:04Cain's voice was calm.
28:07More composed than you, at least.
28:09You only got where you are
28:10because of a woman.
28:13Before Cain could answer,
28:15I laughed.
28:15That's right.
28:16He rose because of me.
28:18But he signed the contract.
28:20He followed the rules.
28:22He respected me.
28:25You rose because of me too.
28:27Then you stole my money,
28:29slept with your sister-in-law,
28:31and traded my reputation for your own gain.
28:33I smiled coldly.
28:35Even when you depend on a woman,
28:36you somehow managed to do it disgracefully.
28:38A collective gasp swept through the crowd.
28:40Leon looked as if he had been slapped.
28:42The gates of the royal court opened.
28:43A silver guard stepped forward.
28:44Her majesty requests your presence.
28:46For the first time all day,
28:48Vivian stopped crying.
28:49She started shaking instead.
28:51Inside the royal court,
28:53Queen Isabella sat upon the silver throne of Silvercrest.
28:56She reviewed the account books,
28:57then the decree of dissolution.
28:59Then she looked at Leon,
29:00Lord Ashford.
29:02What do you have to say for yourself?
29:05Leon knelt immediately.
29:07Your majesty,
29:08I acted foolishly,
29:10but I never intended to steal any marital property.
29:13The queen raised an eyebrow.
29:15And marrying your brother's widow as a second concord was also foolishness?
29:20Leon lowered his head.
29:23It was for the continuation of the family.
29:25The queen nodded.
29:27Lady Alia Vallon entered a house marriage pact
29:31to continue her late sister's bloodline.
29:34That was also for family continuation.
29:38Why, then, did you accuse her?
29:41Leon opened his mouth.
29:44Nothing came out.
29:45The queen's gaze shifted to Vivian.
29:48You claimed Lady Alia and Sir Kame were involved before their marriage.
29:52Do you have evidence?
29:54Vivian burst into tears.
29:57No woman would allow him into her bedchamber for no reason.
30:01I laughed.
30:03Then why did you allow Leon into yours?
30:09Vivian froze.
30:10A trace of frost appeared in the queen's eyes.
30:13At that moment, a royal physician hurried into the chamber.
30:17He bowed deeply.
30:18Your majesty, per your command,
30:20I have completed an examination of Lady Vivian.
30:22She is pregnant.
30:26Leon immediately looked up.
30:28Vivian's face drained of all color.
30:30The physician continued.
30:32The entire court exploded into chaos.
30:34Leon stared in disbelief.
30:36Then joy flooded his features.
30:37You're prevying your carrying my child?
30:39Vivian's lips trembled.
30:40She said nothing.
30:41I watched the physician's expression and already knew the answer.
30:44How far along?
30:46At least three months.
30:47The joy on Leon's face frozen.
30:49Three months ago, Leon had been inspecting the southern territories on royal orders.
30:52He had spent 40 consecutive days away from Silverbrust.
30:54Vivian collapsed onto the floor.
30:56I slowly turned towards Leon.
30:57Congratulations.
30:57You worked so hard to give your brother an heir.
31:00It turns out the child isn't even yours.
31:02It was as if someone had stripped Leon naked in front of the entire kingdom.
31:06He lunged at Vivian.
31:08Whose is it?
31:09Tell me!
31:10It's Ryan's!
31:12It's your birth brother's post-Homrian child!
31:15I raised an eyebrow.
31:17Then why were you afraid to say so earlier?
31:20Because nobody would believe me!
31:24Bring in the witness.
31:26The queen's voice cut through the room.
31:30The doors opened again.
31:32A woman in a gray cloak entered.
31:34The moment she removed her mask, someone behind me gasped.
31:39Selena.
31:40My sister.
31:41The sister I believe dead.
31:43Standing alive in the center of the royal court.
31:46My fingers tightened.
31:48I said nothing.
31:50She looked at me.
31:51There was apology in eyes.
31:54And the familiar sharpness I remembered.
31:58Later, sister.
31:59I'll explain later.
32:01Then she turned towards the throne and dropped to one knee.
32:04Selena Valen.
32:05Crown agent of the Silver Ravens.
32:08Assigned to investigate the illegal sale of frontier war maps by the Ashford family.
32:13Brian Ashford did not die of illness.
32:16He was poisoned.
32:17Leon froze completely.
32:19Vivian shrieked.
32:20She's a fake.
32:21Selena died years ago.
32:25Selena looked at her calmly.
32:28Of course you'd prefer that.
32:31Because if I were alive,
32:32I could prove your secret corresponding with Marcus,
32:36the smuggler operating along the Frostmarch.
32:39And I could prove Brian met with me before he died.
32:44The queen raised her hand.
32:46The silver guard presented letters, account books, poison vials, and jewelry secretes.
32:52One by one, Selena read through them.
32:54When Leon and Vivian began their affair.
32:57When Vivian started carrying messages for Marcus.
33:01When Brian discovered the stolen military maps.
33:04And who handed him wine on the night he died.
33:07With every revelation, Leon's face grew grainer.
33:11At last, Vivian broke.
33:13She pointed at Leon.
33:14It was him!
33:16He said marrying Aleia was only for the Valen family's influence and money.
33:24He said once the old High Marshal died, everything would belong to him.
33:29When Brian became suspicious, Leon told me to keep him under control.
33:33You were the one working with Marcus!
33:37Vivian screamed back.
33:39You took more money than I did!
33:42You said no matter how pitiful Vivian was,
33:45she'd never be worth as much as Aleia's dowry!
33:50The royal court fell silent.
33:52I stood there, and suddenly nothing hurt anymore.
33:55Perhaps pain becomes weightless once it reaches its limit.
33:59Realizing he was finished, Leon crawled towards me.
34:05Alia, please, save me.
34:09I cared about you.
34:10I really did.
34:12She deceived me.
34:13I only wanted to prove myself.
34:15I looked down at him.
34:18If you wanted to prove yourself, you should have done it on the battlefield.
34:21Or in the royal court.
34:23Or through your own abilities.
34:26Why crawl into women's beds, steal women's money,
34:30and step on women's dignity?
34:32Tears streamed down his face.
34:36I was wrong.
34:38I shook my head.
34:40No.
34:41Wrong is a mistake.
34:43You were cruel.
34:45He reached for my skirt.
34:47Kane stepped in front of him.
34:49I did not retreat.
34:51Instead, I bowed to the Queen.
34:52Your Majesty.
34:54I request the complete termination of all marital ties with Leon Ashfield,
34:58the recovery of all marital property,
35:01and restoration of the Valen family's honor.
35:04As for treason and murder,
35:05I ask only that the law take its course.
35:09The Queen studied me for a long moment.
35:13Then she nodded.
35:15Granted.
35:19Aaliyah!
35:20Do you really not love me anymore?
35:22Leon collapsed.
35:23As I turned to leave, he shouted after me.
35:25I paused, only for a moment.
35:27Then I answered.
35:29I loved you once.
35:31It remains the least honorable thing I have ever done.
35:34The night before final judgment, Leon escaped.
35:36When the news arrived, I was sitting beside my father's bed.
35:39He had grown very weak.
35:41After hearing the report, he asked only one question.
35:44Are the castle gates secured?
35:47They are.
35:48Kane answered.
35:49I'll protect her.
35:51Father looked at him.
35:53Don't just say it.
35:55Kane lowered his head.
35:59I'll protect her with my life.
36:04Who asked for your life?
36:06I want you alive while protecting me.
36:09I frowned.
36:11To my surprise, father laughed.
36:14Good.
36:16That sounds like my daughter.
36:17Snow fell heavily that night.
36:20Near midnight, an arrow suddenly shattered through the window and buried itself the bookshelf behind him.
36:26Kane moved at the same instant.
36:29He tackled me to the floor.
36:31The next arrow grazed his shoulder.
36:36Blood immediately soaked through his shirt.
36:39I reached for the wound.
36:45Don't move.
36:46Footsteps echoed in the corridor.
36:48Then came Leon's voice.
36:50Aliyah!
36:51Come out!
36:53I gripped my dagger.
36:56You're impossible to get rid of.
36:59The door crashed open.
37:00Leon stood there with several hired blades.
37:03His hair was disheveled.
37:04His eyes bloodshot.
37:05Nothing remained of the nobleman.
37:07Only the desperation of a gambler who had lost everything.
37:10Come with me.
37:12If you beg the queen for mercy, I can still survive.
37:16I laughed coldly.
37:18Whether you survive has nothing to do with me.
37:21You can't be this heartless.
37:23We were married for three years.
37:25Exactly.
37:26Three years was more than enough to learn how disgusting you are.
37:30You're doing this because of Kane?
37:31His face twisted.
37:32What is he?
37:33Nothing more than a man who picked up a woman I threw away.
37:35Kane stepped forward with his sword.
37:37I stopped him.
37:38Then I looked directly at Leon.
37:39No.
37:39You've got it backwards.
37:41I threw you away.
37:42And that gave him the chance to stand beside me.
37:45With a roar, Leon charged.
37:49Steel clashed against steel.
37:51Sparks flew.
37:52I did not retreat.
37:54Instead, I seized the alarm rope hanging from the wall.
37:57And pulled with all my strength.
37:59The bell thundered through all of Valenki.
38:02Guests, knights, royal silver guards, everyone woke.
38:05Torches flared throughout the castle.
38:07And every one of them saw Leon Asheville breaking into my castle at night.
38:10Sword in hand.
38:11Demanding my help.
38:12Kane kicked away his weapon and forced him to his knees.
38:14Leon Tueyfei looked up.
38:16Then suddenly began to cry.
38:18A'Lillia.
38:19I was wrong.
38:20Come back.
38:21If you return, I'll abandon Vivian.
38:24I'll abandon the second Concord arrangement.
38:26We can start over.
38:27The corridor fell silent.
38:29He still thought he had a chance.
38:31I walked toward him and looked down.
38:33Leon.
38:34I'm pregnant.
38:35He froze.
38:36Completely.
38:38Kane's head snapped toward me.
38:40Shock.
38:40Joy.
38:41And cautious hope.
38:44I nodded gently.
38:46The physician confirmed it this afternoon.
38:48Kane's eyes reddened.
38:49He said nothing.
38:50But the hand holding his sword trembled.
38:52Leon stared my stomach like a madman.
38:54Impossible.
38:55We tried for three years.
38:57I smiled.
38:58Which proves the problem was never me.
39:00Why him?
39:00How can he do in one night what I couldn't do in three years?
39:03No!
39:03I leaned close and whispered into his ear.
39:05Because he treated me like a person.
39:07You treated me like a tool.
39:09Even heaven found you filthy.
39:11As Leon was dragged away, he continued shouting my name.
39:14The sound grew finter and finter.
39:16Until it felt like a nightmare from another lifetime.
39:18My father passed away three days after the first snowfall.
39:21Before the end, Queen Isabella personally came to Vale and Keep.
39:24She removed her silver crown and bowed beside his bed.
39:26The kingdom owes the Valen family more than it can repay.
39:29Father could no longer speak clearly.
39:31I held his hand.
39:32Father, I'm carrying a child.
39:34The physician says everything is healthy.
39:37His eyes brightened.
39:38The queen placed a silver wilt beside the bed.
39:41Whether the child is a boy or a girl, they shall inherit the Valen title and lands.
39:46The Valen line will not end for lack of a male heir.
39:48Father looked at me.
39:50A faint smile touched his lips.
39:52He spoke only one word.
39:54Good.
39:56After his passing, I wore black mourning clothes and stood before the castle gates,
40:00receiving every visitor who came to pay respects.
40:03Some looked at my stomach.
40:06Some at Kane.
40:08Some at Selina.
40:09Now openly serving once more as a crown agent.
40:13But no one dared whisper that I lacked virtue.
40:17Because Leon's sentence arrived the very same day.
40:20Murdering his brother.
40:21Selling frontier war maps.
40:24Stealing marital property.
40:26Defrauding the daughter of a high marshal.
40:29For these crimes, he was stripped of office and family honors.
40:33Then exiled to Frosttown Mines for life.
40:38Never again would he return to Silvercrest.
40:42Vivian was sent to a condent until the birth of her child.
40:46Afterward, the crown would verify the child's bloodline legacy.
40:50The jewelry, gowns, pearls, and perfume she had stolen were all seized to repay debts.
40:57The Ashford family lost most of its lands.
41:01Only a leaking old manor remained.
41:04When Lucy finished reading the reports aloud, she asked,
41:09Are you happy, madam?
41:11I looked at the silver candles burning before my father's memorial.
41:16Happy is too small a word.
41:19Then what is it?
41:23Satisfying.
41:23Months later, I gave birth to a daughter.
41:27Her cries rang through Valon Keep as though she intended to wake the entire castle.
41:33The queen personally gave her a name.
41:36Lyanna Valon.
41:37Future Duchess of Valon.
41:39He looked down at his daughter.
41:41His voice was softer than I had ever heard.
41:49Swords aren't this small.
41:54Selina stood nearby and touched the baby's hand.
41:57Lyanna immediately grabbed her finger.
41:59Selina smirked.
42:01Strong grip.
42:02I'll teach her the dagger one day.
42:03Too early.
42:04Kane said immediately.
42:06I glanced at him.
42:07Didn't you say you learn quickly?
42:09He considered for a moment, then answered seriously.
42:14Then I'll start by learning how to be a father who never disappoints his daughter.
42:18I looked at him.
42:19And for the first time in a very long time, I felt completely at peace.
42:23Leon had spoken many beautiful words.
42:25Kane rarely did.
42:26Instead, every time he approached me, he first asked whether I wanted him there.
42:29Every time he stood beside me, he first made sure I needed him.
42:33Every time he drew his sword, it was not to prove he was stronger than me.
42:37It was to make sure I could stand more firmly on my own.
42:42That was worth more than any vow.
42:44On Lyanna's one-month celebration, the queen hosted a grand banquet at Valonkeep.
42:51The silver lion banner flew proudly across the walls once more.
42:55The nobles congratulated me.
42:58They called me Countess Valon.
43:00They called my daughter the future ruler of the frontier.
43:04I knew some of them still disapproved.
43:06They disliked seeing a woman preserve her house.
43:10They disliked seeing a baby girl inherit a title.
43:13They disliked seeing a frontier knight become the man of House Valon.
43:18But all they could do was smile.
43:21Leon had already tested what happened otherwise.
43:24Anyone who treated me like a weakness would be the first thing I broke.
43:31Near the end of the banquet, the queen handed me a sealed message.
43:35The northern rebels have learned that the violin heir has been born.
43:39They've already begun moving.
43:41I opened the letter.
43:42A single sentence was written inside.
43:44Kill the infant girl, and the Valon Bannon will fall on its own.
43:47Kane's hand settled on his sword.
43:49Selina smiled, fearless as ever.
43:50I tossed the message into the candle flame and watched it burn to ash.
43:54The queen studied me.
43:56Are you afraid?
43:58I looked toward my daughter sleeping peacefully in her cradle.
44:02Her tiny fist was clenched, as if she already held her own destiny.
44:07I smiled.
44:09They've misunderstood one thing.
44:11And what is that?
44:12I lifted my eyes to the Silver Lion Banner flying outside the window.
44:16The Valon Banner was never carried by men alone.
44:19A winter gale swept across the castle walls.
44:22The Silver Lion Banner snapped proudly against the snow-filled sky.
44:26Once, I believed marriage was where a woman belonged.
44:29Then Leon taught me something else.
44:30When your home rots from the inside, you don't stay and die with it.
44:33You set it on fire yourself.
44:34Once, I believed that after my father was gone, I would be the only one left carrying Ladvalon on my
44:39shoulders.
44:39Later, I realized I still had my sister.
44:41I had my daughter.
44:43I had a man willing to stand beside me without trying to eclipse me.
44:46And most importantly, I had myself.
44:49I bent down and kissed Liana's forehead.
44:53Sleep well, my little duchess.
44:55She shifted slightly in her sleep.
44:57I wrapped my fingers over her tiny hand and smiled at the storm beyond the window.
45:01A new war was already coming.
45:02This time I would not fight to preserve my family for any man.
45:05I would fight for myself, for my daughter, for the name Valon.
45:08And this time I would ride into the battle personally.
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