- 4 minutes ago
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:02After I entered the royal palace, I accidentally crossed Lady Catherine's Royal procession that day.
00:17Boldness! How dare you offend the King and his ladies!
00:24To comfort Lady Catherine, King Henry vowed to her that he would never show me favor in this lifetime.
00:28King Henry's words are to be taken seriously.
00:31Before long, I was banished to the most remote corner, the west wing of the palace.
00:34Three years passed without once seeing King Henry.
00:36Just when I thought spending my life this way wasn't so bad, King Henry knocked on my door, seeking shelter
00:41from the rain.
00:42The 4th of March was Lady Catherine's birthday.
00:44Every wing of the palace was bustling.
00:46Those of lower court ranks scrambled to come up with something clever.
00:49A gift to make Lady Catherine smile.
00:51Those ranked just below her.
00:52They sat back and watched with wide eyes, hoping something would go wrong.
00:56None of this had anything to do with me.
00:57Because although I was King Henry's woman, I held no court rank, and had never once laid eyes on the
01:02King.
01:02Three years, and still nothing more than a woman nobody wanted.
01:05That did spare me a great deal of trouble though.
01:07Besides, I had other things to attend to.
01:09I had to deliver my needlework from the past fortnight to the royal surgeon at the royal infirmary before curfew.
01:13Around this time each month, he would go to Lady Rose's chambers to make a health assessment, passing through the
01:18King's private garden on his way.
01:19All I had to do was wait there and slip in my work, and he'd tell them outside the palace
01:22work, bring the money back in.
01:24In the palace, a lady out of favor like me, having no money meant being utterly stuck.
01:28But that day, just after I'd handed over the goods, it began to pour on my way back to the
01:32west.
01:32I ran into the rain. Before I could even change out of the scapegoat, a sharp voice came from behind
01:36me, laced with irritation.
01:38What are you running for? I called you several times.
01:41Go tidy up the courtyard. King Henry needs shelter from the rain.
01:45It was Sir Leon, King Henry's chief steward. I ducked my head at once.
01:49Then, facing the rain, I cursed into him. Without daring to linger a moment longer, I hurried inside and began
01:54tidying up.
01:55But no matter how much I tidied, the place was still pitiful. The royal household offices never bothered with me.
02:00There wasn't even water in here, let alone mulled wine. This rain could not have come at a worse time.
02:05It had brought this devil to my door. Sure enough, after King Henry stepped inside, he didn't sit. He didn't
02:10look at me. He simply stood beneath the eaves.
02:12I stood behind him. My clothes soaked through and couldn't help but let out a cough.
02:15Then I felt a gaze settle on me. It lingered for a long time. A long silence passed before the
02:19owner of that gaze finally spoke.
02:21His voice was clear and pleasant, yet carried absolute authority.
02:23Are you the maid here?
02:27I was still wearing maid's clothes. Besides, yes, there was no other answer to give.
02:31If I said no, people would wonder. I was King Henry's woman.
02:34Why was I dressed as a maid? And where had I just been? What was I doing? Who had I
02:38seen?
02:38I figured, it's not like I'd ever see King Henry again anyway. A hint of displeasure entered his voice.
02:44Who is your mistress?
02:45I understood what he meant. He was the King. The Supreme Sovereign.
02:49Wherever he went, everyone was expected to come out and pay respect.
02:53And yet the lady of the West Wing hadn't shown herself.
02:55She'd sent a mere maid to wait on him, meek and trembling.
02:58I exhaled silently. Disaster was upon him.
03:00I was just bowing in terror, scrambling for an excuse, when Sir Leon spoke first.
03:04Your Majesty, the only one living here is Elena Shenton.
03:08King Henry furrowed his brow. Three years ago, when he first succeeded early to the crown, he had selected over
03:13a dozen ladies for the palace. Each had long since been given her own chambers. How was there still a
03:18lady living in this forgotten wing?
03:19Your Majesty. Three years ago, a lady offended Lady Catherine.
03:23At that, King Henry's expression froze for just a moment. A flicker of understanding crossed his handsome face.
03:28Ah, Elena Shenton. She has only you, one maid, to attend her?
03:34Yes.
03:35King Henry lost all interest in asking further. He seemed to understand now why this place was so desolate. Because
03:41three years ago, he had personally vowed to Lady Catherine that he would never visit Elena Shenton for the rest
03:45of his life.
03:46Even if I lived in this palace to eighty years old, I would never see him again. No matter how
03:51beautiful I was, no matter how charming, King Henry, high above all, would never spare me a second place. Because
03:56that was his own oath, spoken from his own oath.
03:59What king would break a vow for the sake of the war? This rain dragged on far too long. I
04:03stood off to the side, legs going numb, my head going heavier. King Henry never told me what would change.
04:08And then, I fainted.
04:09Just before I blacked out, I instinctively reached for King Henry to steady myself. But this man was too cold
04:13-hearted. He froze for just a moment, then shoved me away. I hit the ground.
04:19When I came to, the rain had stopped. I was still lying where I'd fallen. Not a graceful sight. My
04:23maid, Wynne, had been with me since I'd left the house of Shenton. Over ten years now.
04:27She'd gone to the royal kitchen earlier, then got caught in the downpour. She'd only just returned. Seeing me like
04:32this, she hurried over, helped me up.
04:34Brought you some oatmeal. Good thing you can still trade those embroidered holy badges for some jewelry.
04:40I changed out of my wet clothes, ate the oatmeal, and finally slept.
04:45When I woke, Wynne told me that shortly after the rain cleared, King Henry had happened upon Lady Serena in
04:50the king's private garden.
04:52Every woman in the palace has a different fortune, but you...
04:55I would never have my day. I didn't take it to heart. I said a few words to soothe her.
05:01Then started to get up. After lying so long, my back ached badly. But then Wynne suddenly placed a silk
05:06handkerchief before me.
05:08Oh, is this yours? I've never seen it before.
05:12I looked at her palm. A green handkerchief, embroidered with laurel. Fine workmanship, made from this year's finest silk.
05:17Clearly it wasn't mine. A possibility struck me. The color drained from my face. I looked at Wynne.
05:25This might be... King Henry's.
05:30I pressed my lips together and told her everything just happened.
05:32What do we do? If King Henry sends someone back for it?
05:36I clutched the silk handkerchief, gazing out at the knight.
05:38We'll just take it one step at a time.
05:39After that day, I worried for quite a while, but no one from King Henry's side ever came looking for
05:44the handkerchief.
05:45Only then did I finally let my guard down. Until one night, I was just about to sleep when knocking
05:50came at the door.
05:51Loud and urgent. Then I heard a familiar voice.
05:54Open up.
05:55Wynne's hand froze on its way to the door. I clenched my fists and told her,
05:59Go lie back down. Give me your outer coat.
06:00That day, when I'd fallen to the ground, King Henry and his attendants may have already seen my face.
06:05Now, I could only keep up the lie.
06:06I opened the door. I heard a voice laced with barely concealed anger.
06:09When I came by the other day, I lost a silk handkerchief. Did you see it?
06:14I kept my head bowed, pretending to think.
06:16Was it a green one?
06:18I put it away for safekeeping.
06:20King Henry let out a cold laugh.
06:21It's mine. Go fetch it.
06:25I moved quickly. Before long, I was back, presenting the handkerchief with both hands.
06:29Sir Leon hurried to say,
06:31Your majesty, you see? The handkerchief is perfectly fine. Lady Catherine will surely be pleased when she knows.
06:36Only then did I understand why King Henry had been so overbearing tonight.
06:40This handkerchief was a gift from Lady Catherine, his favorite.
06:43Earlier, Lady Catherine had asked about it.
06:45When King Henry couldn't produce it, she'd thrown a fit, bringing up Lady Serena, who'd been enjoying quite a bit
06:50of royal attention lately.
06:51She pouted, she wept, she made a scene, said King Henry didn't care about her at all.
06:55The two of them had quarreled, and King Henry had come here looking for it.
06:58I stood in silence, bending my waist even lower.
07:01But to my surprise, King Henry didn't take the handkerchief right away.
07:04Instead, he fixed his gaze on me.
07:06After a long moment, his voice came low and deliberate.
07:09I remember you. Last time you nearly fainted into my arms. Lift your head.
07:14I understood now. That last time, after I'd fallen, he hadn't turned back to look at me.
07:18Tonight, there was no wind. No rain. Only a bright moon hanging high, casting its light upon the slender curve
07:23of a woman's wrist.
07:24Looking closer. A graceful waist. A bowed head.
07:27Even without seeing the face one could tell, she was beautiful.
07:30And for a man as exalted as King Henry to say such words, it wasn't hard to guess what thought
07:34had stirred.
07:35If this had happened three years ago, when I'd first been sent here, I would have been thrilled.
07:39But the woman standing here now had endured three years of neglect.
07:42My heart had been ground smooth. I no longer dreamed.
07:45I no longer wished to beg for a scrap of a king's love.
07:47Besides, if he knew I was actually Elena Shenton, the woman he'd long since discarded, he would be furious.
07:53This was the crime of deceiving the crown. Was I supposed to faint again?
07:56The thought had barely crossed my mind when a voice called from outside.
07:59Your Majesty, Lady Catherine has sent someone to look for you.
08:02At that, King Henry let out a soft scoff. He paid me no more attention.
08:07Let's go. At least she has some conscience.
08:09With that, he casually took the handkerchief from my hand, tucked it safely against his chest, turned, and walked away.
08:18After that little episode, King Henry spent the next half month in Lady Catherine's chambers.
08:23Poor Lady Serena, she'd barely had her moment before being shoved back down.
08:27As for me, I suppose I'd seen too much of this sort of thing.
08:30My heart didn't stir at all, for a moment, I thought.
08:33The way things are now isn't so bad, really.
08:35I'm not going to let you go again.
08:37My maternal family was weak, no backing, no connections.
08:40And I was destined never to receive the King's favor.
08:44No one would ever remember me or spare me a thought.
08:47It was then, the second rain of spring arrived.
08:49Wynne came down with a fever that lasted an entire day.
08:51I gave her several remedies, but nothing worked.
08:53So I thought I'd try my luck in the King's private garden.
08:56Maybe I'd run into the royal surgeon.
08:57I remembered he carried a kind of pill that worked well for fevers.
09:01Luck was on my side.
09:04That man returned yesterday.
09:07I looked up.
09:08He asked me to tell you.
09:11He'll find a way to get you out of here.
09:15Worried about Wynne, I hurried on my way back.
09:17I wasn't watching my step and nearly tripped.
09:19A man stood in the pavilion.
09:21It's you.
09:22Why can you never keep your footing?
09:24Come here.
09:25My heart tightened.
09:26I gripped my umbrella and walked over.
09:28I could feel it, his mood was foul.
09:30Worse than the night he'd come looking for the handkerchief.
09:33Back then, the anger had been on the surface, as if he'd wanted it to be seen.
09:36Now it was different.
09:37Your Majesty.
09:37This time he was completely alone.
09:39He looked more like a man who'd stepped out to watch the rain.
09:42The rain's coming down hard today.
09:43Everyone else has shut themselves indoors, yet here you are, practically running.
09:47What's the hurry?
09:49Never mind.
09:50Forget I asked.
09:52Thank you, Your Majesty.
09:53I am the sovereign of this realm.
09:55I possess everything under heaven.
09:57And yet you don't wish to be my woman.
09:59Why?
10:03It is precisely because of that, Your Majesty, that I dare not presume.
10:06King Henri paused.
10:07Something in my answer seemed to please him.
10:09I'll take your word for it.
10:11This once.
10:12Go.
10:15Tomorrow night, I'll be here waiting for you.
10:19Yes, Your Majesty.
10:20This time again he hadn't seen my face, yet he'd recognized me at a single glance, and
10:25told me to come again tomorrow.
10:26Perhaps it was only something said in passing.
10:28Perhaps tomorrow I would come and find no one here, but he was the king he'd spoken.
10:32I had to obey.
10:33It wasn't until much later that I learned.
10:35This day was the memorial of his mother.
10:37King Henri's birth mother was the Lady Rose of that era, the most beautiful woman in the
10:40realm.
10:41It was said she already had someone she loved, but the late king kept her in the royal palace
10:45by force.
10:45She bore the present King Henri.
10:47While King Henri was still a young boy, Lady Rose died, consumed by grief.
10:52The next night when I arrived, King Henri was already there.
10:55No one beside him, as before.
10:57Clearly King Henri had given orders beforehand.
10:59Toe night, it would only be him and me.
11:01He stood with his hands clasped behind his back, not turning to look at me.
11:04Come here.
11:05Stand before me.
11:07I had considered painting dark spots on my face.
11:09But the moment I stepped out of the west wing, I changed my mind.
11:12I washed the spots off.
11:13Playing tricks in front of him was too dangerous.
11:15The more I tried to hide, the more it would seem like I had something to conceal.
11:19He reached out, his hand finding my chin.
11:21Then, with a slight force, he tilted my face up, fully exposed before his eyes.
11:25When he saw me clearly, his brow tightened.
11:27His expression turned unreadable, but his hand stayed on my chin.
11:29He didn't let go.
11:31After a long moment, I heard a soft laugh.
11:33His features gradually eased.
11:35You're not ugly.
11:37So why were you afraid to let me see?
11:41I didn't know why a king so far above would bother toying with a maid.
11:45But there it was.
11:46As he left, he looked down at me through lowered lashes.
11:48A faint smile at his lips.
11:49What's your name?
11:50I looked up in shock.
11:51I'll grant you a future.
11:53Come serve me.
11:54What do you say?
11:54For a maid, this was indeed a splendid future.
11:56But he had once said with his own mouth, he would never favor me again in this lifetime.
12:00When word of King Henry's rejection reached beyond the palace walls, the Shenton family
12:03had been so terrified they sent a message that very night.
12:05They told me to consider myself no longer their daughter.
12:08To stay quiet in the royal palace and never provoke anyone again.
12:10I am Elena Shenton.
12:12King Henry was very patient.
12:13Seeing I didn't answer, he asked again.
12:15You don't want to?
12:16I drew a deep breath and suddenly dropped to my knees.
12:18It isn't that I don't want to.
12:19It's only, I've served Elena Shenton for so long.
12:22The bond between a mistress and her maid runs deep.
12:25I truly cannot bear to leave her.
12:26King Henry seemed not to have expected this answer.
12:28His brow tightened.
12:29Then he reached out and helped me to my feet.
12:31His hand was cold, like the man himself.
12:33She is rather pitiful, I suppose.
12:36His expression was stern, yet something in it softened.
12:39Perhaps he recalled that crumbling wing of the palace.
12:41He smiled.
12:41Then stay with her for now.
12:43My hand, still lightly held in his, went rigid.
12:45Those words were ambiguous, and they made me uneasy.
12:50My legs were weak on the walk back.
12:52Who could have imagined a man I hadn't seen in three years?
12:54Three encounters in a matter of days.
12:56And today, saying such things to me.
12:57It was terrifying.
12:59But fortunately, for a long time after that, I didn't see King Henry again.
13:03Because Lady Nia was with child.
13:05This was King Henry's first.
13:06Naturally, nothing could be left to chance, everyone said.
13:09If she delivered safely, Lady Nia was about to attain high position and great wealth.
13:13In the beginning, she and I had shared the same wing.
13:15She was gentle by nature.
13:17I often stood up for her.
13:18I was moved to the west wing.
13:19We never saw each other again after that.
13:21Who would have thought?
13:22Someone so low-key back then, look at her now.
13:25Lady Catherine was King Henry's greatest love.
13:28Domineering.
13:29Imperious.
13:29All these years, could possibly conceive a child right under her nose.
13:33And yet, Lady Nia had done just that.
13:35King Henry personally ordered us to hold a celebration for Lady Nia.
13:38And to send gifts made by our own hands.
13:41In past years, this had nothing to do with me.
13:44But this time, King Henry suddenly asked.
13:46Isn't there still a lady called Elena Shenlett in the west wing?
13:50Make sure she is told.
13:53After much deliberation, I sent a handmade doll.
13:56When I delivered it to Lady Nia's quarters, Lady Catherine happened to be coming out.
14:00She looked no different from three years ago.
14:02Still surrounded by her entourage.
14:04Still haughty.
14:05Still beautiful.
14:07Only, her complexion wasn't great.
14:08When she saw me, she spared me a single cold glance before looking away.
14:12As though she had never known me at all.
14:13Or rather, in her mind, the me of today posed no threat whatsoever.
14:16Nothing like three years ago, when she'd treated me like a dire enemy the moment she laid eyes on me.
14:21And immediately made a scene.
14:23Forcing King Henry to make that vow.
14:25I waited outside for a full two hours before someone came to tell me that Lady Nia was dining with
14:30King Henry inside
14:31and likely wouldn't have time to see me.
14:33No wonder Lady Catherine had looked so upset just now.
14:35Lady Elena.
14:37Perhaps you should come another day.
14:38I'd known it wouldn't be that easy.
14:40I said nothing more and agreed to leave.
14:42But I'd barely taken a few steps when someone caught up from behind.
14:44One of King Henry's attendants.
14:46He looked rather young.
14:47Probably new to the King's service.
14:49He called out to me.
14:49King Henry just learned you came by.
14:51He sent me to catch up with you.
14:52King Henry says he hopes you treat your maid Winnie well.
14:55In the future, the King would bestow many gifts.
14:57I smiled and accepted the message.
14:59Then I watched with my own eyes.
15:01King Henry's royal carriage parked not far off.
15:03His back was to me.
15:04The young attendant who had just found me was now at his side.
15:06Whispering something.
15:07King Henry actually laughed.
15:09No need to bring her over.
15:10Let's go.
15:11After watching him leave with my own eyes, I turned back and requested to see Lady Nia once more.
15:18Of all the gifts presented to Lady Nia, only my doll received King Henry's praise.
15:22The person who came to deliver my reward was the same young attendant from that day.
15:26After handing over the gifts, he didn't leave right away.
15:29Instead, he glanced at Win behind me.
15:31After looking, he seemed puzzled.
15:32A long moment passed before he offered.
15:35Since King Henry has bestowed so many gifts upon you, perhaps in the next day or two when you have
15:41time, you could make some honey cake or the like, and send it to the King's chambers as a gesture
15:46of gratitude.
15:47I nodded.
15:48Of course.
15:49The moment he left, the news spread everywhere.
15:53Inevitably, people brought up what happened three years ago.
15:55But by nightfall, all of that was overshadowed.
15:58Everyone laughed and said King Henry's praise was really just the carrot and stick.
16:02Because the palace had announced that Marshal Fenwick had returned victorious from campaign, and King Henry was very pleased.
16:09At month's end, a group of maids and ladies the King had never favored would be released from the palace.
16:14In hundreds of years, this had never happened before.
16:17It was the first time.
16:18My name was on the list.
16:20Win's was not.
16:20And yet she was several years older than me.
16:22Well past the age when she could have been released.
16:25The next day, I went to the great kitchen.
16:28This time, I didn't spend a coin.
16:30I merely mentioned I needed to prepare a gesture of gratitude for the King.
16:33And they cleared the kitchen for me, even sparing two helpers.
16:36By the time the honey cake was finished, it was already afternoon.
16:39I didn't wear maid's clothes.
16:41Instead, I changed into my own court attire.
16:43When I arrived outside the royal study, the maid posted at the door told me King Henry was still inside,
16:48discussing matters with someone.
16:50She told me to go in and wait in the side chamber.
16:52The moment I stepped in, I heard a voice on the other side of the screen, laughing with open delight.
16:56They made no effort to keep their voices down.
16:58King Henry's voice came unhurried, laced with amusement.
17:01No wonder you've refused to marry all these years.
17:03So you had your eye on her.
17:04Come to think of it, my vow back then did you a favor.
17:06As it happens, I've been meaning to send her away for some time now.
17:09This works out perfectly for everyone.
17:10We've served together for years and you of all people so cold, Inrun.
17:13It's rare for you to take a liking to someone.
17:15I'll make sure it happens.
17:16Incense curled through the hall.
17:18I lifted my head and heard another voice, cold as struck Jade.
17:21It's been three years.
17:22I want to know how is she.
17:23What luck!
17:24Her personal maid is on the other side of that screen right now.
17:27I'll call her in, ask whatever you like.
17:29Before I could react, footsteps were already approaching.
17:32Then I saw two men enter, one after the other.
17:35King Henry glanced at my clothes.
17:36His brow furrowed.
17:37Then he waved me over.
17:38Come, tell him about your mistress.
17:40I walked before them, but couldn't bring myself to speak.
17:43Marshal Fenwick was watching me too.
17:45His gaze sharpened.
17:46The silence said everything.
17:47King Henry suddenly let out a cold laugh.
17:49His deep eyes fixed on me, and he spoke word by word.
17:51I told you to speak.
17:52Why won't you?
17:53I clenched my teeth and dropped to my knees.
17:55Your majesty, the truth is…
17:56Get out!
17:57King Henry cut me off.
17:58I could only rise.
17:59Just as I was about to step through the door, Marshal Fenwick's voice stopped me.
18:03Elena.
18:04I halted.
18:04His voice was low.
18:05Never mind.
18:08I waited outside for a long time.
18:10Finally, Fenwick emerged.
18:12Under everyone's watchful eyes, he said nothing to me and left.
18:15I knelt outside, my head bowed low.
18:17A long time passed before the hem of King Henry's robe entered my vision.
18:21Yet at this moment, he seemed almost amused by his own anger.
18:24He drawled.
18:26Elena Shonten.
18:27I bowed.
18:27Yes.
18:28Inside.
18:29I followed him in.
18:30The moment I crossed the threshold, a hand tilted my chin up.
18:33Do you understand that you've committed the crime of deceiving the crown?
18:37I met his gaze, about to speak, but he was already laughing coldly.
18:40His words like a blade.
18:42Let me explain it for you.
18:43That day you were wearing maid's clothes when you happened upon me.
18:46You assumed you'd never crossed my path again, and you feared I'd ask why you were out in the rain
18:50so you simply kept up the lie.
18:51I nodded.
18:52No.
18:53Your Majesty.
19:21Good.
19:21I raised a brow.
19:22Oh?
19:22I wanted to borrow some money from her.
19:24This time, King Henry actually laughed.
19:26Ha!
19:27Money or even power.
19:30Wouldn't it have been simpler to come to me?
19:32I froze, then dropped to my knees.
19:34He looked down at me.
19:35After a long pause, his throat moved.
19:37He let out a scoff.
19:38Too bad.
19:39You no longer have that chance.
19:41Before you arrived, I had already promised to give you to Marshal Fenwick.
19:44He traded his war credits for it.
19:46He asked for no gold or silver, only that I pardon your crime of deception, so it seems I got
19:51quite the bargain.
19:52Two months from now is the day you leave.
19:53Go.
19:54The King's word is final.
19:55It was so three years ago.
19:57It is so now.
19:59Before all of this, Marshal Fenwick and I had only met twice.
20:03The first time he was young and destitute, nearly dying of illness in the street.
20:07I was the one who called a physician for him.
20:09The second time was on the eve of my entering the royal palace.
20:12By then he'd already made a name for himself on the frontier.
20:15He rode back from a thousand miles away to say goodbye, and left the royal surgeon behind to look after
20:19me.
20:19I never imagined that when we met again, I would be the one trapped and destitute in the palace,
20:23while he stood at the pinnacle of power trading his war merits to pardon my crime.
20:26I hadn't expected he would go this far for me.
20:28Nor had I imagined that the way out the royal surgeon had spoken of, was this.
20:32I knelt before King Hunri and raised the matter of Wynne.
20:34Your Majesty.
20:35Wynne is already old enough to be released yet her name wasn't on the list.
20:38King Hunri helped me to my feet.
20:40He studied me, his gaze sharp and fathomless as though trying to peer into my very heart.
20:43Why do you think her name wasn't on the list?
20:46Because of me, because of those three chance encounters.
20:49The rain-soaked first meeting.
20:51The knock at my door in the dead of night.
20:52Idle words under the moon.
20:53He had his own selfish reasons.
20:55He'd wanted to keep me by his side, which was why he'd been willing to release Elena Shenton,
20:59honoring what I'd called the bond between mistress and maid.
21:01In the silence of the deep palace, he sighed.
21:04So be it.
21:05She is just a maid.
21:06I'll have her name added tomorrow.
21:07That night, the royal household offices sent a great many things to the West Wing.
21:11Fortunately, everyone already knew I was leaving soon.
21:13No one paid much attention.
21:15Only Lady Nia.
21:16Seizing the opportunity sent some jewelry over as well.
21:19Along with a single message.
21:20From this day forward, we're even.
21:22Back then, if she hadn't pushed me on that path, I never would have crossed Lady Catherine's procession in front
21:26of everyone.
21:26The human heart is treacherous.
21:28The world unpredictable.
21:29Years later, I used that very incident to pressure her into covering for me in front of King Henry.
21:33Nodded.
21:34Agreed.
21:34Privately, I found the royal surgeon and asked him to pass a message to Fenwick, marrying me.
21:39You got the short end of the deal.
21:40If you regret it now, perhaps there is still a way out.
21:42Two days later, the royal surgeon brought back Fenwick's reply.
21:45He said,
21:46Not a loss.
21:46No regrets.
21:49Grey royal stone walls stands closely, moonlight pooling on quiet steps.
21:52With a patron saint's feast approaching, the royal palace bustled once more.
21:55This time, I couldn't hide away.
21:57Because the doll I'd made for Lady Nia had earned King Henry's praise,
22:00Lady Catherine had now ordered me to embroider one for the king as well.
22:03She summoned me specifically for this.
22:06The moment I stepped inside, someone tripped me.
22:08I couldn't tell who.
22:09My palm hit the ground and slid open, drawing blood.
22:13I consider myself beautiful.
22:16And yet I must admit, you are exquisite.
22:20A pity.
22:21A pearl about to be buried in the dust.
22:23Once you leave, I doubt anyone will marry you.
22:26Cherish these last two months.
22:30Yes, my lady.
22:31It wasn't hard to understand.
22:32Really.
22:32These past days, the whole palace had heard.
22:34That Lady Nia and I were old friends.
22:36Closest sisters.
22:36And that I'd gone to her for money.
22:38Lady Nia was with child.
22:39Lady Catherine was displeased and had been rebuffed by her.
22:41Naturally, she needed somewhere to vent.
22:43As I left Lady Catherine's quarters, I happened to cross paths with King Henry.
22:46His attendants trailed behind him, bearing treasures meant for Lady Catherine.
22:48As the procession passed me, King Henry kept his eyes forward.
22:51He didn't spare me a glance.
22:53I walked on a few more steps, then heard a voice from behind.
22:56Wait outside.
22:57Just a few words.
22:58But they brooked no argument.
22:59I thought I'd be waiting a long time.
23:01Just like three years ago, when I knelt outside Lady Catherine's chambers, my face slapped
23:04red and swollen.
23:05King Henry walked past me, hurrying inside to comfort her.
23:08He soothed her for three hours.
23:09And only at the very end did he finally say, lightly send her somewhere.
23:11I don't have to see her.
23:12But this time, I only waited a short while before King Henry emerged.
23:15He stood before me and said,
23:16Follow me.
23:18As I followed him, I realized at some point, every attendant around King Henry had vanished.
23:22It was only the two of us.
23:24I couldn't help asking,
23:25Your Majesty, is there something you wish to instruct me on?
23:28He stopped.
23:29His gaze lingered on my face for a moment, then dropped to the hand.
23:32Show me.
23:33I looked at him, hesitant.
23:34King Henry produced a tin of ointment from somewhere and said, almost mockingly,
23:37Though there was something stiff about it.
23:38Doesn't it hurt?
23:39Give me your hand.
23:39I'll dress it.
23:41I rushed to refuse.
23:43There's no need.
23:44But he'd already seized my hand and begun applying the salve.
23:46His touch wasn't gentle exactly, but it was light.
23:49When he finished, he looked at me, eyes dark.
23:50Every woman in this palace is insufferably pampered.
23:53Lose a strand of hair and they're at my feet weeping.
23:55And yet you?
23:55You can't get away from me fast enough.
23:57I looked at him and pulled my hand free.
23:58Which proves my point, Your Majesty.
24:01Your interest in me is only passing.
24:03Once I leave, you'll never think of me again.
24:05He was silent for a long time.
24:07How do you know I haven't truly taken a liking at you?
24:10That you're not already in my heart?
24:12I stepped back half a pace.
24:13I am not worthy of such words.
24:15Not I but your humble subject.
24:17And soon another man's wife.
24:18King Henry stood perfectly still.
24:19The corner of his mouth barely lifted.
24:21His gaze razor sharp.
24:22You speak so boldly now.
24:23Because you're certain I'll let you go?
24:25I frowned a moment of silence then.
24:26Your majesty is the sovereign.
24:28Naturally your word is your bond.
24:30King Henry always high and mighty always arrogant.
24:32Looked at the woman before him.
24:33And for the first time felt regret stir.
24:34No one could defy his will.
24:36And yet, why should he hold back?
24:37He wasn't a saint.
24:38Why couldn't he, just once, do as he wished.
24:39And leave himself no room for regret.
24:42These past days with the gifts I'd received, my hands weren't quite so empty anymore.
24:46What arrived from the great kitchen was much better than before.
24:48But one day, when Wynne went to fetch our food, she ran into one of Lady Serena's maids.
24:52Lady Serena had only recently caught the king's eye very proud.
24:55And naturally her servants had grown proud as well.
24:57They insisted Wynne had taken something that belonged to their porters.
24:59Everyone knows your lady is about to leave.
25:02She doesn't even have a proper title.
25:04What makes her worthy of food like this?
25:06Wynne couldn't stand it, she argued back.
25:07When Lady Serena heard about it, she personally brought her people to the West Wing.
25:10She walked in, surveyed the courtyard, then looked at me with her chin raised.
25:12After studying me for a moment, she laughed.
25:14Of all the women who entered the royal palace with me, you were the most beautiful.
25:17I never imagined that next time I saw you, it'd be like this.
25:19Your maid offended me.
25:20Hand her over.
25:21I intend to punish her properly.
25:24Over the years, things like this had happened more than once.
25:26But her coming in person, that was a first.
25:28Perhaps she was afraid that once I left, she'd never have another chance to flaunt herself in front of me.
25:32She waved for her attendants to seize Wynne.
25:34I stepped in front of her.
25:35My lady, do you intend to punish my maid without authority?
25:38The king favors me greatly now.
25:40Let alone your maid.
25:41Even if I punished you today, no one would say a word.
25:44Take her!
25:44Now!
25:45In the scuffle, I was shoved to the ground.
25:47Wynne's eyes welled with tears.
25:49It's my fault.
25:50I shouldn't have lost my temper.
25:52Your fault?
25:53I'd say it's your mistress's fault.
25:55If she hadn't been so useless.
25:56Offending Lady Catherine, the West Wing wouldn't have become a place anyone can bully.
26:00The words had barely left her mouth when a voice cut through from outside the courtyard, laced with fury.
26:04Anyone can bully?
26:05What if her rank stood above yours?
26:07Would you still dare?
26:08Lady Serena's body went rigid.
26:09She stared at the newcomer in disbelief, whispering,
26:12Your majesty.
26:13King Henri's gaze rested on me for a moment, then shifted to Lady Serena.
26:16Lady Serena's eyes glistened with tears.
26:18You enjoy abusing your position that much?
26:20Get out.
26:20She put on a pitiful face and tried to move closer to King Henri, but he shoved her away.
26:24From now on, you are not to bother Elena Shenhardt again.
26:26Lady Serena didn't dare linger.
26:27She fled with her people in tow.
26:28King Henri walked over, but he didn't look at me.
26:30He gazed down at wind from above.
26:32These three years, every injustice your mistress has suffered.
26:34Tell me.
26:36All of it.
26:37I blurted.
26:37Your majesty, what are you?
26:38He reached out and gently squeezed my palm.
26:40Go inside.
26:41Until she's finished talking, you are not to come out.
26:44I didn't know how much time passed.
26:46The sun was sinking.
26:47A cool breeze rose.
26:48One hour later, King Henri finally came in from outside.
26:50Not long ago, on a rainy night, he had come here too, standing nobly at the threshold, refusing to take
26:54a single step inside.
26:55This time, he walked through the place he'd once disdained, step by step, until he stood before me.
26:59He rubbed the space between his brows, something like anguish.
27:02I'm sorry.
27:02I put on a look of alarm and gazed up at him.
27:04Your majesty, why would you say such a thing?
27:07He was the master of the royal palace.
27:09What fault could possibly be his?
27:11Compared to his territories, compared to his ladies, I was utterly negligible.
27:14A single word from him decided the fates of countless people.
27:16I was merely lucky enough to be pitied by him.
27:19The room grew dim.
27:20King Henri looked down at me, his brow furrowed.
27:22What I said, in the courtyard earlier, I meant it.
27:24If you want it.
27:25If you dare.
27:27Today, I could make you-
27:29Your majesty, I'm about to leave.
27:31I don't want to stir up trouble.
27:32His expression went blank.
27:33The corner of his mouth twitched.
27:35He finally seemed to come back to himself, his voice unsteady.
27:37Right.
27:38I nearly forgot.
27:39I vowed to Lady Catherine I would never favor you.
27:42And I promised Marshal Fenric your hand.
27:45You are leaving the royal palace.
27:47After that day, I shut my doors and didn't go out.
27:49Win told me that after King Henri returned, he flew into a thunderous rage and punished a great many people.
27:54Even Lady Catherine was left in the cold.
27:55For an entire month, King Henri didn't favor a single lady.
27:59Before I knew it, the patron saint's feast had arrived.
28:01I saw Marshal Fenwick again.
28:02He wore long robes, his features sharp and elegant.
28:04The scarlet hem of his garment flowed in the wind, lending his entire presence an air of cool detachment.
28:08But when his gaze met mine, he smiled softly.
28:10His smile was like brilliant sunlight.
28:11It wasn't hard to imagine how many ladies admired him.
28:14King Henri stood at the very front.
28:16After he prayed, he suddenly turned and glanced back.
28:18Perhaps it was my imagination.
28:19His gaze lingered on Marshal Fenwick for a moment.
28:21Then shifted toward where I stood.
28:22A long pause.
28:23Then he turned away.
28:24I watched his retreating figure.
28:26He was only 22.
28:26Tall, composed, dignified.
28:28King Henri was the king every lady revered and adored.
28:30Decisive, forceful, a man of his word.
28:32But suddenly I remembered five or six years ago on a night at Willow Wharf.
28:35He was still just a young lord.
28:36When I nearly stumbled, he caught my arm and laughed lightly.
28:39Miss, are you here for the boat tour as well?
28:41It's crowded tonight.
28:43Be careful.
28:43Be careful.
28:44Be careful.
28:44Be careful.
28:45Be careful.
28:46Be careful.
28:46Be careful.
28:46Be careful.
Comments