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Framed By A Time‑Travelling Woman! The Virtuous Empress Refuses To Bear All The Blame
#minidrama #rebirth #EngDub #Cdrama
#minidrama #rebirth #EngDub #Cdrama
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00:00:0020 years appraised, model queen, yet unloved by the emperor.
00:00:05Even my own son preferred that shady noble consort.
00:00:09Until the day I prayed at Dragon Ridge, hit by a sudden landslide, and plunged off a cliff.
00:00:16Yet, I survived.
00:00:18Crawling from the ruins, an absurd thought crossed my mind.
00:00:24Since no one ever cared about my past life, why not fake my death and start over?
00:00:31Did you hear? The queen's in trouble. The emperor and prince rush to Dragon Ridge.
00:00:37Oh, it's likely fake. The emperor and prince aren't worried. They still have smiles on.
00:00:42He touched his pendant, missing the consort. Decades of noble training and strict decorum, yet I never understood.
00:00:50How I paled next to her, until the prince's wedding day.
00:01:00As prince and princess, on your wedding day, to dress so oddly and lightly.
00:01:05How improper.
00:01:06Royal mother said, that in her hometown, couples wed in white.
00:01:10Symbolizing purity.
00:01:11Mother's full of rigid, outdated rules.
00:01:14She is so annoying.
00:01:15Alright, I find it novel.
00:01:18Proceed with the bows. Don't miss the hour.
00:01:21Knowing I was in danger, they still laughed and talked.
00:01:25They never cared about me, even wishing I'd die to clear the throne for that unique consort.
00:01:30If so, this heartless husband, rebellious son, I don't want them.
00:01:34As the queen, I quit.
00:01:41Belhaven.
00:01:42It's 300 miles from the capital.
00:01:44That father and son shouldn't find me here.
00:01:47Mrs. Montgomery, thanks for the ride.
00:01:49I told you, no charge.
00:01:51I was heading home and saw you traveling alone.
00:01:54It was on my way.
00:01:56If you need anything in Belhaven, come find me at the agency.
00:02:02Move. Decree.
00:02:04By heaven's mandate.
00:02:07Empress Vance has passed away.
00:02:09All shall mourn.
00:02:10She was missing last month.
00:02:12How could?
00:02:13Empress Vance reigned 20 years.
00:02:16Kind and gracious.
00:02:17Everyone knew it.
00:02:19Yet the good die young.
00:02:21I'll go home and set up the Empress's memorial tablet.
00:02:24Three incense sticks a day.
00:02:26To show our gratitude.
00:02:27All this time, beyond my sight.
00:02:29Someone remembered me.
00:02:31But they remember the Empress, not Clara Vance.
00:02:35In the days that followed,
00:02:37I bought a small shop with a courtyard home.
00:02:42I also bought two maids.
00:02:47Finally, I hired an old tailor and opened a tailor shop.
00:02:56Oh, sister.
00:02:58I can't believe you opened this shop.
00:03:00And the dress you sent to the escort agency.
00:03:02It's stunning.
00:03:03I feel so valiant in it.
00:03:05Even my old man.
00:03:07Blushed seeing me.
00:03:08Keep it down.
00:03:09Sit and talk.
00:03:11Some think I'm thanking you.
00:03:12Others think you're a plant.
00:03:14Why fear?
00:03:14Good is good.
00:03:15I'm not lying.
00:03:17Honestly, I practiced martial arts young and felt like a tomboy.
00:03:20But your dress today makes me look heroic yet feminine.
00:03:24I really love it.
00:03:26Tomorrow, I'll matchmake for my tough sister, Lucinda.
00:03:30Make a peach dress in my size.
00:03:32The groom is William Sterling.
00:03:35He's widowed with a son named Seth, but very wealthy.
00:03:38If it works out, I'll thank you for her.
00:03:41Okay.
00:03:42Thanks for the support.
00:03:46Ma'am, can I skip this dress?
00:03:49We took the deposit.
00:03:50How can we skip it?
00:03:52Is Lucinda hard to please?
00:03:54Not Lucinda.
00:03:56It's the groom-to-be.
00:03:58William Sterling met dozens of ladies, with no results.
00:04:01Why is that?
00:04:02Is William Sterling ugly?
00:04:04No.
00:04:05William Sterling is very handsome.
00:04:07Is he poor?
00:04:08No.
00:04:09The Sterlings are famously rich.
00:04:11Then why hasn't it worked?
00:04:13It's a long story.
00:04:15You'll see later.
00:04:22Who is it this early?
00:04:25What's the rush?
00:04:27Get Widow Vance out here.
00:04:32Whose kid are you?
00:04:34You're the tailor, making clothes for the lady.
00:04:37My dad's meeting, right?
00:04:38William's son.
00:04:39I told you we shouldn't take this job.
00:04:41William may be an honorable man, but his son Seth is a little terror.
00:04:45In Belhaven, everyone goes the other way.
00:04:48Sure, you're pretty.
00:04:49But you're helping find me a stepmother for money.
00:04:52I can have your shop burned down, then sell you to a brothel.
00:04:56Nope.
00:04:56What did you say?
00:04:58I said I don't.
00:05:00Fine, then I'll show you what I'm capable of.
00:05:07You.
00:05:15What an impudent brat.
00:05:18Disrespecting elders.
00:05:19How dare you.
00:05:21Do you know who I am?
00:05:22I despise youngsters who have no manners.
00:05:26Call me old-fashioned or rigid if you like.
00:05:28But I was taught that kids must know their place.
00:05:31Whoever's kid you are.
00:05:33Behave yourself.
00:05:42You look presentable, yet speak with no upbringing at all.
00:05:48Since you're so young and your parents failed you, I will discipline you today to teach you
00:05:53proper manners.
00:05:54Madam, this is Master Sterling, William's son, Seth.
00:05:58Ever since William lost his wife, the boy was left unchecked, becoming utterly wild.
00:06:03He terrorizes the town, uncontested.
00:06:05No one dares.
00:06:06Well, I dare today.
00:06:10Go guard the woodshed door.
00:06:11Without my word, no one opens it.
00:06:14Yes, madam.
00:06:23Madam, Seth is hungry.
00:06:25For a whole day, not one sterling came looking.
00:06:28About time.
00:06:37Any remorse?
00:06:42Fine, no remorse.
00:06:56Get the chamber pot.
00:06:58I'll burst.
00:07:00I'm coming.
00:07:03I'm coming.
00:07:20Wait.
00:07:21What now?
00:07:23Your hand's cut.
00:07:24I'll dress it before you go.
00:07:31All done.
00:07:32You can go.
00:07:33Come by later tomorrow.
00:07:35What?
00:07:36Can't wake early.
00:07:37You locked me up all day, just because I woke you up this morning.
00:07:41I finally escaped all that kneeling and bowing.
00:07:44First thing after I left was learning to sleep in.
00:07:46You bang on my door at dawn and trash my shop.
00:07:49You ruin my sleep.
00:07:50Who else would I hit?
00:07:51Go on.
00:07:52Go.
00:07:52Go tell on me, or have my shop burned.
00:07:55Your choice.
00:07:56Come late tomorrow.
00:08:05Well, I hurt my hand at your place.
00:08:09Change my bandage.
00:08:10I changed it last night.
00:08:13Next change is tonight.
00:08:14Then I'll stay till tonight.
00:08:16No school.
00:08:17My dad says.
00:08:18That stuff's useless.
00:08:20Nonsense.
00:08:21What you learn matters most when it counts.
00:08:25Learning set me apart in the Vance family.
00:08:27Stranded in Belhaven, it helped me make a life.
00:08:30I loathe lazy students.
00:08:32I used to make the crown prince study hard.
00:08:35He liked the noble consort because she let him skip his studies and play all day.
00:08:41I won't study.
00:08:43If you want to stay here, you must read and write.
00:08:46My dad's loaded.
00:08:48Why learn to read?
00:08:49Will you study?
00:08:50Study or go?
00:08:51I'll study.
00:08:52Don't make me go.
00:08:54I'll study.
00:08:56Annie, go into town and buy the scholars four treasures, then the classics from the bookstore.
00:09:00Yes, ma'am.
00:09:09You.
00:09:10Focus your mind.
00:09:12Only do extra if you have energy.
00:09:14Doing this and then that.
00:09:16When will you learn?
00:09:17How can you face your teacher?
00:09:19How can someone like you ever become useful to the country?
00:09:23The crown prince was the same.
00:09:26When scolded, he'd act like this.
00:09:29Seeking comfort.
00:09:33Seth, I hope you understand.
00:09:35I scold you so you will improve.
00:09:38If you keep living so carelessly, your future days might not be too hard.
00:09:43But they'll never make your mother proud.
00:09:47Your mother was once a famed scholar here.
00:09:50Unlike me, who escaped, she was trapped eight years and died in sorrow.
00:09:55As her only flesh and blood, she wanted you to succeed.
00:09:59How do you know about my mother?
00:10:01The tailor in the shop told me.
00:10:04Though I can't fully know what your mother felt.
00:10:08Any mother with a child wants him to stay righteous, to stand tall and proud, with a clear conscience.
00:10:14Only an upright heart brings true fulfillment.
00:10:18Ask yourself, if your mother saw you speaking and acting so vulgarly back then, could her soul rest in peace?
00:10:25Mrs. Vance.
00:10:26I'm sorry.
00:10:30Please teach me again.
00:10:32Okay.
00:10:40Seth, your basics are solid now.
00:10:43I suggest you tell your family to enroll in the academy properly.
00:10:56Is Mrs. Vance in?
00:10:59William Sterling, Seth's father.
00:11:01May I enter?
00:11:05Dad.
00:11:07You're back.
00:11:09I am Clara Vance.
00:11:10What do you need?
00:11:15Accept my bow, Mrs. Vance.
00:11:17What do you mean, Mr. Sterling?
00:11:21To be honest, Mrs. Vance.
00:11:23My son Seth used to trouble me.
00:11:26I wanted to punish him often.
00:11:28I was away for months.
00:11:31When I returned, Seth had completely changed.
00:11:34I asked around and learned you did so much for him.
00:11:37I came to thank you for guiding my son.
00:11:41A wealthy family like yours shouldn't raise a child like this.
00:11:45Before meeting you, Seth resented me.
00:11:50His mother passed away in a wealthy household.
00:11:53Both Seth and her family must hold some resentment, yet you previously never disciplined him.
00:12:01When I first met Seth, his words were foul.
00:12:04In my anger, I chose to teach him.
00:12:07With business everywhere, I really couldn't make time.
00:12:11No wonder your family sought a new wife to manage the household.
00:12:15You just, ma'am.
00:12:18Dad, if I must have a mother, I want Mrs. Vance.
00:12:22Propose to her now.
00:12:26Some dear son you are.
00:12:28I worked hard to teach you, and you pawn your dad off on me.
00:12:32Aunt Clara, you're all on your own.
00:12:34My father's a widower too.
00:12:36You're beautiful, and he's not bad looking either.
00:12:40You told me before, you don't want children.
00:12:43Well, dad already has me.
00:12:44I can be your son.
00:12:46Do you like money?
00:12:47Dad's loaded.
00:12:48His vault holds tens of thousands, plus endless jewels.
00:12:52Just say yes, and it's all yours.
00:12:54Please be my mother.
00:12:55I don't want anyone else.
00:12:57Dad, speak up, or your bride will get away.
00:13:02My son's rather rash.
00:13:04Please don't take offense.
00:13:06But I truly do care for you.
00:13:08If you don't find me too crude, would you give me a chance?
00:13:11I'm the empress of this kingdom, yet a merchant wants to marry me.
00:13:15How should I feel?
00:13:17Still, William is quite handsome.
00:13:20Mr. Sterling?
00:13:21Yes?
00:13:21I won't marry.
00:13:23But I'd take a lover.
00:13:25Would that work for you?
00:13:30Mrs. Vance.
00:13:31How refreshingly frank.
00:13:33But I'm willing.
00:13:52I'll sing a song today.
00:13:54Music.
00:13:55Traveled a thousand years to get to this place.
00:13:58All the beauties here must step aside.
00:14:01Back then, I was a career queen.
00:14:03Slaying PPTs and hitting KPIs.
00:14:06The emperor favors only me.
00:14:09Who dares defy me?
00:14:10My dear, foreign envoys are present.
00:14:13This is...
00:14:15Quite improper.
00:14:16Your majesty, don't be stiff like the late empress.
00:14:19I'm just adding fun.
00:14:20Where I used to live, this performance is totally normal.
00:14:24Empress?
00:14:25Besides, what's wrong with my outfit?
00:14:28This is fashion.
00:14:29You don't get it.
00:14:31Where I came from, many...
00:14:33On stage, sire.
00:14:35I have a grievance.
00:14:38About...
00:14:39Noble consort Yi.
00:14:42What?
00:14:43Since the empress passed away, you put Lady Yi in charge, but she cut our allowances.
00:14:48Last month, my palace had no charcoal.
00:14:52Several maids fell ill.
00:14:54The doctor said delay causes lasting harm.
00:15:00My palace is the same.
00:15:02Cut our pay by 40%.
00:15:03Ask the household, they blamed consort Noble.
00:15:07Your majesty, we don't seek trouble, but in this freezing winter, without charcoal, we consorts can bear it.
00:15:14But what about the young princes and princesses?
00:15:17What is the meaning of this?
00:15:19Complaining about me to the emperor?
00:15:21Your highness, I'm stating facts.
00:15:23You have nothing better to do.
00:15:26Palace costs are high.
00:15:28Have you considered the empty treasury?
00:15:30Over a few silver coins, you cry to the emperor?
00:15:33Shame on you.
00:15:34We don't seek wealth, your highness, but in this winter, you have no charcoal in your palaces?
00:15:40Do you think I have any?
00:15:42I am freezing as well.
00:15:43Stop being dramatic.
00:15:45Sire.
00:15:51Father, I wish to speak.
00:15:53Go.
00:15:53Royal mother works day and night, managing the harem.
00:15:56Cutting stipends is for fiscal efficiency.
00:15:59Bringing this trivial matter to father.
00:16:01Is overreacting, making us a joke to foreign envoys.
00:16:04His highness is right.
00:16:06Cousin just wants to ease his majesty's burden.
00:16:08Yet some people are ungrateful.
00:16:10Besides, I know what kind of person cousin is better than anyone else.
00:16:14She is never a harsh person.
00:16:16Only the prince and princess understand, unlike those who cause trouble all day.
00:16:21When Empress Sophia was here, she always meddled.
00:16:25Now that I am in power, they still act the same way.
00:16:31Everyone, leave.
00:16:33She rules the harem with good reason.
00:16:36We'll discuss this later.
00:16:38You truly dote on me.
00:16:40The heir and his wife are wise.
00:16:42Unlike those ungrateful people.
00:16:47Resume feast.
00:16:49Your majesty, we have brought rare treasures of our realm to pledge eternal peace.
00:16:54Thank you, envoy.
00:16:59Your majesty, that pendant is beautiful.
00:17:02Where I used to live before this, I have never seen such fine quality jade.
00:17:07That belongs to them.
00:17:08Sire, won't you get it for me?
00:17:17Madam, your pendant is so fine.
00:17:19I really like it.
00:17:21Could you part with it?
00:17:22I'll trade palace jewels for it.
00:17:25What say you?
00:17:26Forgive me, your highness.
00:17:28This is a royal heirloom pendant for my late mother.
00:17:32Before she passed, she handed it to me and bade me wear it always.
00:17:36Keep it near.
00:17:37Since your mother has passed, keeping this pendant is merely a keepsake.
00:17:41I truly adore it.
00:17:43If you give it to me, I will owe you a favor.
00:17:46My lady.
00:17:48It's just.
00:17:49If your highness likes pendants, I have many more at home of far better quality.
00:17:54Pick any you like.
00:17:56I want only this one.
00:18:00Why so stingy, madam envoy?
00:18:02My cousin is the noble consort.
00:18:04You're lucky she likes your piece.
00:18:07We won't take it for nothing.
00:18:09We'll trade palace treasures for it.
00:18:11For a foreign woman, what more could you want?
00:18:16Don't worry, madam envoy, royal mother likes your pendant.
00:18:20Consider it a blessing.
00:18:23Serving her is a rare privilege that most people only dream of.
00:18:26Right.
00:18:27Fear not, madam envoy.
00:18:29The consort lacks discipline, which is my fault.
00:18:33To apologize, I offer three border cities for your pendant.
00:18:39Your majesty, no.
00:18:41Our soldiers shed blood for three border cities.
00:18:44Why give them up for a pendant?
00:18:45Please reconsider.
00:18:47You old fools.
00:18:48All you do is complain.
00:18:49The emperor owns the realm.
00:18:51What are three border cities?
00:18:52Where I lived before, I've seen much bigger ones.
00:18:55I've seen it all.
00:18:57You're so narrow-minded and ignorant.
00:18:59Get out of my sight.
00:19:00My lords, royal mother just likes it.
00:19:03Since father has spoken, by opposing him, are you disrespecting father or me?
00:19:08Where is a great empire's dignity?
00:19:10My mind is set.
00:19:12Case closed.
00:19:22Fine jade suits a beauty.
00:19:24It looks best on my cousin.
00:19:26Mother is stunning.
00:19:28Anything suits her.
00:19:39Here he comes again.
00:19:41Mr. Sterling visits so often, he's more punctual than mealtime.
00:19:45Tell me about it.
00:19:46He claims he's visiting to build affection, but look at what he brings every single time.
00:19:50Last time, a golden jade pin.
00:19:52Before that, a jade pendant.
00:19:54Each pricier than the last.
00:19:56If you ask me, Mr. Sterling worships Mrs. Vance like a goddess.
00:20:00He's about to move his whole estate here.
00:20:02What do you girls know?
00:20:04This is sincerity.
00:20:06If a man won't put in this much effort, he doesn't truly care about her.
00:20:12Busy, Mrs. Vance?
00:20:14M-m-m.
00:20:20While in the capital, I saw this hairpin.
00:20:23I thought you'd like it, so I brought it back.
00:20:27You're generous, Mr. Sterling.
00:20:30Seeing this quality, treasure pavilion, not cheap.
00:20:34Good eye, Mrs. Vance.
00:20:36Treasure pavilion.
00:20:37But the price...
00:20:38Matters less than your joy.
00:20:41Leave it.
00:20:45By the way, in the capital, I heard a lot of interesting news.
00:20:51Like what news?
00:20:56I heard noble consort Yi now manages the harem.
00:20:59She cut concubines' pay, forcing them to weep to the king.
00:21:03And at a banquet, she coveted Madam Envoy's heirloom pendant.
00:21:06The emperor swapped three border cities for it.
00:21:08The crown princess's family used her power to take local bribes.
00:21:12Now at court, petitions pile high.
00:21:15To suppress it, the crown prince and emperor took a lot of grief.
00:21:18Now, court and realm are in chaos.
00:21:20You sure follow court matters.
00:21:22It's not court affairs.
00:21:24I just feel the late empress was pitiful.
00:21:28They say she suffered so much,
00:21:30keeping restraint and propriety for the emperor's and prince's good name.
00:21:33She endured great grievance.
00:21:35It only looked fine outside.
00:21:37She must have hurt inside.
00:21:40How do you know she hurt?
00:21:41That consort Yi came from nowhere and stayed favored,
00:21:45yet never made big mistakes.
00:21:47Think, Mrs. Vance.
00:21:49If the late empress hadn't arranged all behind the scenes,
00:21:52I'd never believe it.
00:21:54Indeed.
00:21:55Back then, consort Yi caused so many ridiculous messes.
00:21:59I cleaned up after her, yet I became the villain.
00:22:02No one knows how aggrieved I felt.
00:22:04William's words today were strangely comforting.
00:22:15Mr. Sterling, you truly pity women.
00:22:18Mrs. Vance, I speak from the heart.
00:22:22Since you understand a woman's pain,
00:22:24why did Seth's mother die alone in the estate?
00:22:30I'd rather not discuss my past.
00:22:33But from now on, I'll be devoted only to you.
00:22:37Mrs. Vance, would you give me a chance to court you?
00:22:43Go on, go.
00:22:45Get out of here.
00:22:49To this day, I've only known the emperor.
00:22:52He had little interest in bed.
00:22:55It's been so long, I've almost forgotten
00:22:57how pleasure feels.
00:23:01Are you satisfied?
00:23:04Will I be satisfied?
00:23:06I'll have to try.
00:23:11Sire, at the banquet,
00:23:13Isabella demanded the envoy's mother's relic.
00:23:16Word has spread everywhere.
00:23:17Our great nation, a beacon of etiquette,
00:23:20suffered such disgrace.
00:23:22I ask your majesty to punish her.
00:23:24I agree.
00:23:25Since Isabella managed the court,
00:23:27she embezzled funds and took foreign relics.
00:23:29Every charge is proven.
00:23:31If unpunished, where is discipline?
00:23:33Where is honor?
00:23:34Your majesty,
00:23:35the censor's impeachment's number over 40.
00:23:38We are not trying to target Isabella.
00:23:40This affects national honor,
00:23:42so it must be checked.
00:23:45My lords, regarding Isabella,
00:23:47father has his own thoughts.
00:23:49However, the most urgent matter isn't her, is it?
00:23:52Highness, what do you mean?
00:23:53Lord Drake, why play dumb?
00:23:56Lately, petitions against her and the princess's family
00:23:59are many.
00:24:02Since your highness brought it up,
00:24:04I have a report.
00:24:06Their maternal clan,
00:24:07the Miller family,
00:24:08took bribes locally,
00:24:10causing public outrage.
00:24:12Please read this,
00:24:13your majesty.
00:24:14Miller again.
00:24:17Father,
00:24:17about the Millers,
00:24:18I ordered an inquiry.
00:24:20If they are corrupt,
00:24:22I won't spare them.
00:24:23However,
00:24:25the Millers are her family.
00:24:27Punishing them too harshly
00:24:28will embarrass the crown princess.
00:24:30Your highness,
00:24:32the Vances are a great clan.
00:24:34Empress Vance chose a daughter of talent
00:24:36and rare beauty.
00:24:37But you refused,
00:24:38breaking with the Vances to marry a Miller.
00:24:40And look now,
00:24:41the Millers lack depth,
00:24:43useless indeed,
00:24:44ruinous to all.
00:24:45Besides the late Empress,
00:24:47they wed other daughters to border princes and idle lords.
00:24:50The Vances never stake their entire fate on a single woman.
00:24:54That is the true foresight of a noble clan.
00:24:56After the Empress passed away,
00:24:58the Vances didn't linger.
00:24:59They backed Prince Julian.
00:25:01Prince Julian?
00:25:02Yes.
00:25:03Though modest by birth,
00:25:04Prince Julian is humble,
00:25:05courteous,
00:25:06and respected at court.
00:25:07Many Vance protégés have already joined
00:25:09Prince Julian's faction in secret.
00:25:11The Vances
00:25:12are backing a new faction.
00:25:14Your majesty,
00:25:15your highness,
00:25:16not only is court a buzz,
00:25:18rumors spread to the streets.
00:25:19Some say Isabella brings ruin to the land,
00:25:22others say the prince lacks judgment.
00:25:23Some say under the late Empress,
00:25:25palace was calm,
00:25:26court cleaned.
00:25:27Now, with the Empress gone,
00:25:28all is in chaos.
00:25:29What else do people say?
00:25:32They say,
00:25:33the jokes in the palace are funnier than stage plays.
00:25:37Storytellers turn banquet gossip
00:25:39into joke routines,
00:25:40told in every tea house.
00:25:44Good.
00:25:45Good.
00:25:46Good.
00:25:48Father,
00:25:49calm down.
00:25:50This is all my fault.
00:25:52For trusting the wrong person.
00:25:54She isn't the only one you misjudged.
00:25:58I just don't get it.
00:26:00How could a noble consort
00:26:02wreak such havoc on court?
00:26:03When the Queen was here,
00:26:05this never happened.
00:26:07Forget it.
00:26:08Why bring her up?
00:26:10Mother is already gone.
00:26:11Even if she were,
00:26:12she'd just scold us sternly.
00:26:14Against the rules.
00:26:15Improper conduct.
00:26:16What else could she do?
00:26:18I listened to her for 20 years.
00:26:20My ears grew calloused.
00:26:22You're right,
00:26:23Father.
00:26:25Your Majesty,
00:26:26what's done is done.
00:26:27Our urgent priority is to save the situation.
00:26:30What do you suggest?
00:26:31Your Majesty,
00:26:32we must first quell the public rumors.
00:26:34The people laugh at us,
00:26:36so we must take action to silence their mockery.
00:26:39Belhaven suffers a severe plague.
00:26:41Though relief funds were sent,
00:26:43local corruption runs rampant.
00:26:45If Your Majesty and the Prince
00:26:47personally lead the relief south,
00:26:49it will appease the people and restore our dignity.
00:26:52What say you?
00:26:54I wish to go south with you,
00:26:57Father,
00:26:57to inspect the people incognito
00:26:59and escape these troubles in the capital.
00:27:01Very well.
00:27:03Getting away beats listening to their whining.
00:27:05Go make preparations.
00:27:06Don't mess up again.
00:27:08Yes,
00:27:09Father.
00:27:13Madam,
00:27:14wake up.
00:27:15It's almost noon.
00:27:18Where are you going,
00:27:19Missy?
00:27:20Wake Mrs. Vance.
00:27:21Look how late it is.
00:27:23She's usually up by now.
00:27:25Maybe she's sick today.
00:27:28Don't wake Mrs. Vance.
00:27:30We can run the shop today.
00:27:31Why?
00:27:32I said don't,
00:27:33so don't.
00:27:34Stop asking why.
00:27:35Fine,
00:27:36I won't.
00:27:37Don't be so mean.
00:27:43Uncle Scott did save me some dignity.
00:27:50Clara,
00:27:51come home with me.
00:27:53I'll make you my wife.
00:27:56I'm good.
00:27:58Mr. Sterling,
00:28:00we agreed we'd stay casual lovers.
00:28:30Didn't Mr. Sterling agree?
00:28:33I...
00:28:38I did agree,
00:28:40but I didn't think you meant it.
00:28:41Come now,
00:28:42Mr. Sterling.
00:28:43When have I ever joked with you?
00:28:45So Mr. Sterling is completely under my thumb.
00:28:49Aunt Clara,
00:28:50I'm off to class.
00:28:54Dad,
00:28:55why are you here?
00:28:57Why do you look so upset?
00:29:00Who upset you?
00:29:01No one.
00:29:02Then why the long face?
00:29:03Like someone owes you $800?
00:29:07Ignore dad.
00:29:08He's in a mood.
00:29:10It'll pass.
00:29:10I'm moody.
00:29:11What else?
00:29:12That early scowl,
00:29:13who's it meant to scare?
00:29:22Aunt Clara,
00:29:23when are you free?
00:29:24What's up?
00:29:24Could you visit me at school?
00:29:26I told my classmates,
00:29:27that I have a pretty aunt,
00:29:29who's an amazing tailor,
00:29:30better than any shop,
00:29:31back in the capital.
00:29:32They didn't believe me,
00:29:34said I was bragging,
00:29:35and want to meet you.
00:29:36Why did you tell them all that?
00:29:37To make them jealous.
00:29:38Of course,
00:29:39Lucas's dad owns a grain shop,
00:29:41and brags about his rice.
00:29:43Wyatt's mom can embroider,
00:29:44and shows off at school daily.
00:29:46You're a hundred times better,
00:29:47why shouldn't I brag?
00:29:48So you're comparing me to them?
00:29:50It's not that.
00:29:51I just want them to know,
00:29:53I have someone amazing too.
00:29:55Back in the palace,
00:29:56the prince was never this close,
00:29:57nor did he ever talk about me
00:29:59with such warmth.
00:30:00Fine, fine,
00:30:01I get it.
00:30:02So will you go?
00:30:03If you don't mind,
00:30:04I'll dress up today
00:30:05and pick you up,
00:30:06okay?
00:30:06Thanks,
00:30:07Aunt Clara,
00:30:08I knew you were the best.
00:30:09Alright,
00:30:09stop shaking me,
00:30:11my old bones are falling apart.
00:30:12Hee hee.
00:30:14Then I'll wait for you,
00:30:15at the gate after school,
00:30:16you must come.
00:30:17Got it,
00:30:18chatterbox.
00:30:21You're so gentle with him.
00:30:23He's my student,
00:30:25so of course I am.
00:30:27And me?
00:30:29You're Mr. Sterling.
00:30:32Last night.
00:30:33You didn't call me that.
00:30:36That was last night.
00:30:38This is today.
00:30:40A grown man,
00:30:41Mr. Sterling,
00:30:42and you can't tell.
00:30:52Aunt Clara.
00:30:54Come on,
00:30:55let me introduce,
00:30:56my Aunt Clara.
00:30:59Oh,
00:31:00your aunt's so young and pretty.
00:31:03Has Seth caused you trouble
00:31:04at the academy?
00:31:06Not at all.
00:31:07Seth's amazing now.
00:31:08Master praises him every day.
00:31:10Right.
00:31:10Seth says Aunt Clara
00:31:11taught him all that.
00:31:14Seth did it through hard work.
00:31:16All right,
00:31:17it's getting late.
00:31:18You should all head home.
00:31:20Don't worry your families,
00:31:21I made these treats myself.
00:31:23Here.
00:31:24Thanks.
00:31:34Don't worry,
00:31:35yours is here.
00:31:48Aunt Clara.
00:31:50I have to tell you.
00:31:52What?
00:31:52Go ahead.
00:31:55William.
00:31:57He's not really my father.
00:32:01He's my eldest uncle.
00:32:04Back then,
00:32:05my birth mother married him.
00:32:07He didn't love her,
00:32:09but let her run the household.
00:32:11Then he left to do business.
00:32:14All year,
00:32:15he was home,
00:32:16only a handful of days.
00:32:17My birth mother was quiet,
00:32:19but bold.
00:32:21Somehow,
00:32:22she fell for my second uncle.
00:32:25They had an affair.
00:32:28Then I was born.
00:32:30It was scandalous enough.
00:32:32Then,
00:32:33while meeting in a nearby town,
00:32:34they caught the plague,
00:32:36and died there together.
00:32:37Grandmother was,
00:32:38furious and heartbroken.
00:32:40She feared word would get out,
00:32:42and disgrace our family.
00:32:43So she forced my eldest uncle,
00:32:45to keep it all quiet.
00:32:47So your eldest uncle.
00:32:48He'd been cuckolded.
00:32:49He loved,
00:32:51hated,
00:32:51and neglected me.
00:32:53Over the years,
00:32:55that's how I became a spoiled brat.
00:32:58I thought after 20 years in the palace,
00:33:01I'd seen how cold people could be.
00:33:04Yet this 13-year-old child,
00:33:06carries such pain inside.
00:33:10Theo,
00:33:11if your mother could see who you are now,
00:33:13she'd be so happy.
00:33:28Your highness,
00:33:29don't do anything rash.
00:33:32Talk to his highness.
00:33:35What are you doing?
00:33:37Scissors,
00:33:38down.
00:33:38If I do,
00:33:39what chance do I have?
00:33:42You'll investigate my family,
00:33:44won't you?
00:33:45You've read the petitions against them,
00:33:47haven't you?
00:33:48The emperor wants it.
00:33:49The whole court does.
00:33:51You want the millers all executed,
00:33:53don't you?
00:33:53Affairs of state,
00:33:55follow the law.
00:33:55If your family's clean,
00:33:57why fear scrutiny?
00:33:58If they broke the law,
00:34:00that's on them.
00:34:01What does innocent mean?
00:34:02Name one official who'd survive scrutiny.
00:34:05You're trying to kill me.
00:34:10What's up?
00:34:17Have you gone mad?
00:34:24I'm scared.
00:34:25Scared you'll leave and abandon me.
00:34:29Who's leaving?
00:34:30You're joining the emperor incognito in Belhaven.
00:34:33It's a long journey.
00:34:35If anything happens to you,
00:34:37I won't live,
00:34:37either.
00:34:38If you come back and the millers are ruined,
00:34:40you'll abandon me.
00:34:42What nonsense?
00:34:43When did I say I'd leave you?
00:34:45You didn't.
00:34:46But I can tell how you truly feel.
00:34:49Deep down,
00:34:50you still miss the late empress,
00:34:52right?
00:34:52She opposed our marriage from the start.
00:34:55Now you regret it,
00:34:56don't you?
00:34:58Your silence says I'm right.
00:35:01I knew it.
00:35:02You never had room for me.
00:35:04I'm just your scapegoat.
00:35:06A pawn the miller's forced on you.
00:35:11Are you done now?
00:35:14His majesty.
00:35:15Noble consort.
00:35:22What's going on so late?
00:35:25Father,
00:35:26the princess.
00:35:27Majesty,
00:35:28help me.
00:35:29Oh my,
00:35:30what happened?
00:35:31Look at her neck.
00:35:33Get a doctor.
00:35:34Cousin,
00:35:35you must stand up for me.
00:35:38Your majesty,
00:35:39look.
00:35:40Such a good girl.
00:35:42Push to this point.
00:35:43I haven't asked you,
00:35:44yet you question me.
00:35:47Sire,
00:35:48I know.
00:35:49You heard rumors lately
00:35:51against my family.
00:35:53But it's all outsider's lies.
00:35:58Sire,
00:35:58even if the millers erred,
00:36:00they just took some monetary tribute.
00:36:02Don't all officials do the exact same thing?
00:36:04Why target the millers?
00:36:06Easy for you to say.
00:36:07That silver is the people's blood and sweat.
00:36:10The law cannot excuse it just because everyone does it.
00:36:13Your majesty,
00:36:14as your daughter-in-law,
00:36:16I've worked hard,
00:36:17never slacking.
00:36:18Now you want to probe my family.
00:36:20How can I face living like this?
00:36:22I can't live like this.
00:36:24He probes your family,
00:36:25and the prince left you.
00:36:27As cousins,
00:36:29we might as well die together.
00:36:32So,
00:36:38go have the royal physician check your wounds.
00:36:41The law will decide if there's an inquiry.
00:36:45Tears,
00:36:45tantrums,
00:36:46and suicide threats won't decide this.
00:36:51Your majesty,
00:36:52my family only made a few minor mistakes.
00:36:55How did it come to seizing our estate,
00:36:57and killing us all?
00:36:58Who said anything about that?
00:36:59I merely ordered an inquiry.
00:37:01If they took bribes,
00:37:03they'll repay them,
00:37:04and be punished.
00:37:05The law will decide.
00:37:07All your majesty talks about is rules.
00:37:10When Empress Catherine was here,
00:37:12she was the same.
00:37:14Everything broke protocol or was improper.
00:37:17I'm sick to death of hearing it.
00:37:20I just don't understand.
00:37:22All my family did was take a little money.
00:37:25How is that so unforgivable?
00:37:27Of all the officials in this realm,
00:37:29which one doesn't take bribes?
00:37:31Surely your majesty knows that.
00:37:33You've gone too far.
00:37:35I'm only telling the truth.
00:37:37If your majesty wants someone who lives by the rules,
00:37:39only Empress Catherine will do.
00:37:41But,
00:37:42Empress Catherine is dead.
00:37:43No matter how much you want her,
00:37:45you'll never have her again.
00:37:47I said never mention the empress again.
00:37:50I only thought.
00:37:53Rules.
00:37:54When she followed every rule,
00:37:55I found her stuffy and dull.
00:37:58Humph.
00:37:59Now no one follows rules,
00:38:00and one problem after another keeps giving me headaches.
00:38:04As for the trip to Belhaven,
00:38:06my mind is made up.
00:38:07We leave tomorrow.
00:38:09We'll deal with the Millers when I return.
00:38:12Behave yourself in the palace while I'm gone.
00:38:15Don't cause any more trouble.
00:38:17I understand.
00:38:19Farewell, father.
00:38:28You cleaned up nicely today.
00:38:30Of course.
00:38:31Mr. Sterling's coming.
00:38:32We can't embarrass you, ma'am.
00:38:35Let him come.
00:38:36What's to prepare?
00:38:37Come now, ma'am.
00:38:39When Mr. Sterling visits,
00:38:40you say you don't prepare,
00:38:42yet you either change outfits or redo your hair.
00:38:44Hush, you.
00:38:46Ma'am, Mr. Sterling.
00:38:48I've watched him closely.
00:38:51He's dependable.
00:38:53I know.
00:38:54At my age,
00:38:55I know a good man when I see one.
00:38:57Mr. Sterling may be rich,
00:38:59but he never bullies anyone.
00:39:00He's good to his servants.
00:39:02And to you, ma'am,
00:39:04he's.
00:39:05He'd give you his heart.
00:39:06Uncle,
00:39:07when did you learn to talk like that?
00:39:10Where you lived before,
00:39:11I don't know, ma'am.
00:39:13But I can tell you weren't happy there.
00:39:16Now,
00:39:17here in Belhaven,
00:39:18you can open a shop if you want,
00:39:20sleep as late as you want,
00:39:22and be with anyone you want.
00:39:23A life like this,
00:39:25I'm so happy for you, ma'am.
00:39:27Thank you, uncle.
00:39:30Don't thank me.
00:39:32Without Mrs. Vance taking me in,
00:39:34this old man would be dying under a bridge now.
00:39:37As long as she is well,
00:39:39I am content.
00:39:47Fresh pastries brought on my way.
00:39:49Smells good.
00:39:51Mr. Sterling,
00:39:52you bring food every time.
00:39:54You've spoiled our taste buds.
00:39:56Perfect.
00:39:56Once spoiled,
00:39:57you'll only eat food from my house.
00:39:59You're quite a businessman.
00:40:01Are you trying to buy our taste buds as well?
00:40:04Not just that.
00:40:06I want all of you.
00:40:08Mr. Sterling,
00:40:09your words are sweet as honey today.
00:40:15It's not honey.
00:40:16It's from my heart.
00:40:23Yesterday,
00:40:24traders said,
00:40:25capital folks are coming.
00:40:28Who is it?
00:40:29Not sure yet.
00:40:30They're court officials,
00:40:32heading toward Belhaven.
00:40:33We'll know more when the caravan returns.
00:40:36Court officials?
00:40:37A coincidence,
00:40:38or no way.
00:40:40They think I'm dead.
00:40:41They won't find me here.
00:40:43What's wrong?
00:40:44Nothing.
00:40:45Belhaven just seems to be getting more lively.
00:40:54The emperor and crown prince will be gone a month or two.
00:40:59I rule the palace now.
00:41:01Of course.
00:41:02You now oversee the whole palace.
00:41:04Even the senior consorts have to bow to you.
00:41:07What is there to fear?
00:41:09Something's been on my mind.
00:41:11Go ahead.
00:41:15The palace costs a fortune.
00:41:17When the emperor's here,
00:41:19he always preaches thrift.
00:41:21I've had enough of it.
00:41:22Exactly.
00:41:23Last time,
00:41:24I wanted a new headdress.
00:41:26Treasury said funds were short.
00:41:29Wait till next year.
00:41:30I'm the crown princess,
00:41:32yet I must wait for a crown.
00:41:34What a disgrace.
00:41:37So I've decided,
00:41:39while the emperor's away,
00:41:40we'll change the rules.
00:41:42How?
00:41:44A tax.
00:41:48You mean?
00:41:49Where I once lived,
00:41:51I heard of a certain tax.
00:41:53The poll tax.
00:41:55Everyone pays it,
00:41:56one fee per head.
00:41:58But we'll keep it simple.
00:42:00Just add a new tax.
00:42:02Yes.
00:42:03Call it my forever young beauty tax.
00:42:06Those consorts are all dripping in jewels.
00:42:09They can spare some silver.
00:42:13Brilliant idea, cousin.
00:42:15Those consorts always dress to show off.
00:42:17Why shouldn't they pay?
00:42:19Hmph.
00:42:19That's not all.
00:42:21Taxing only the palace won't bring in much.
00:42:24We must tax outsiders.
00:42:26Outsiders?
00:42:29Yes.
00:42:30Before,
00:42:31the Miller family only took a few perks,
00:42:33and they all whined.
00:42:35This time,
00:42:37squeeze them harder,
00:42:38especially places like Belhaven.
00:42:40In wealthy areas,
00:42:42if they can't pay the tax,
00:42:43just seize it.
00:42:50You are my cousin,
00:42:51after all.
00:42:53Quick thinker.
00:42:57Brilliant, cousin.
00:42:59I knew you were a woman of vision.
00:43:02But cousin,
00:43:03I hear those imperial censors have been watching you.
00:43:06Over the last palace banquet,
00:43:08they've filed several petitions,
00:43:10but for his majesty.
00:43:12Who knows?
00:43:13Those old fools.
00:43:14I'll deal with them soon enough.
00:43:17His majesty is away.
00:43:19They want to report me?
00:43:21To whom?
00:43:22Exactly, cousin.
00:43:23But I heard a plague is ravaging Belhaven.
00:43:26Even better.
00:43:27The sick can only wait to die.
00:43:29Their land lies fallow.
00:43:31I'll take it over.
00:43:33What a charitable deed.
00:43:35Brilliant, cousin.
00:43:36I'll get the decree drafted.
00:43:38Wait.
00:43:38Tell our people to send all the money to me first.
00:43:42You'll get your share.
00:43:45Every last cent.
00:43:46Rest easy, cousin.
00:43:48I understand.
00:43:51I didn't come to this world just to suffer.
00:43:55With his majesty away,
00:43:57I can do as I please.
00:43:59Once I have the money,
00:44:00who'll dare judge me?
00:44:20Father, this child.
00:44:21I fear it's the plague.
00:44:23ML.
00:44:24We brought plenty of medicine.
00:44:25Can we share some with them?
00:44:27Just to keep the child alive?
00:44:29You are heir.
00:44:30I understand.
00:44:31If you get infected,
00:44:33what of the court?
00:44:34What of the realm?
00:44:36But there are people too.
00:44:37Local officials and physicians will handle it.
00:44:40Step back.
00:44:41You'll only get sick too.
00:44:43Save no one.
00:44:45Were mother here,
00:44:46she'd disagree.
00:44:47She always said a ruler must put his people first,
00:44:51yet I don't even have the courage to step down.
00:44:57Sir, there's a station ahead.
00:44:59Shall we rest?
00:45:01Let's rest.
00:45:02We are all weary.
00:45:04Yes.
00:45:26Oh, my.
00:45:27You must be Azana from the capital.
00:45:29Safe arrival.
00:45:30I've prepared hot water and food.
00:45:32This way, sir.
00:45:34Thanks.
00:45:42I'm just a nobody.
00:45:44Please forgive me.
00:45:45Fine.
00:45:46How's the plague here?
00:45:47To be honest.
00:45:48To be honest, it's bad.
00:45:49Half the local villages fell ill.
00:45:51Over a hundred died.
00:45:53Doctors are scarce.
00:45:54And medicine is short.
00:45:55The government promised help.
00:45:57Yet so far, very little arrived.
00:46:00No help.
00:46:03Passed down layers,
00:46:05the county gets almost nothing.
00:46:09Plus, folks from the capital claim to be miller kin.
00:46:13To collect noble consorts so-called beauty techs.
00:46:17If unpaid, they seize the land.
00:46:20Without land, the plague made life even worse.
00:46:25Outrageous.
00:46:26I just left, and consort ye acts lawless.
00:46:30Overstepping.
00:46:32Draft my decree.
00:46:38The miller family is going way too far.
00:46:44Sir?
00:46:45A crowd gathered outside,
00:46:47wanting to see top officials.
00:46:49How many?
00:46:50At least a hundred.
00:46:52They surrounded us.
00:47:01Hi, officials.
00:47:02Come out.
00:47:06Who are you?
00:47:07Are you rebelling?
00:47:10We demand justice.
00:47:15Return land.
00:47:16My son is so sick,
00:47:18yet officials gave no medicine.
00:47:20What's the point of living?
00:47:21The plague rages,
00:47:22yet the millers still tax us.
00:47:24They took our land if we couldn't pay.
00:47:26You capital officials,
00:47:27will anyone stand up for us?
00:47:38Do you seek me?
00:47:43You are the emperor.
00:47:45Good.
00:47:46Now look at them.
00:47:47Your officials stole our land,
00:47:49and your government left us to die.
00:47:51What kind of emperor are you supposed to be?
00:47:55Silence.
00:47:59Who stole your land?
00:48:02Don't play dumb.
00:48:04The noble consort's family.
00:48:06The miller's distant branch.
00:48:08Charging us a beauty tax.
00:48:11You rich nobles live in luxury in the palace,
00:48:13while what about us?
00:48:15Our families die one by one.
00:48:18Father,
00:48:19I told you,
00:48:20the miller issue can't wait.
00:48:21Now is not the time for this.
00:48:23If you don't give us an answer today,
00:48:26we'll fight you to the death.
00:48:28We're waiting to die anyway.
00:48:30Let's take the emperor with us.
00:48:36Father,
00:48:37you're hurt.
00:48:38I'm fine.
00:48:39Retreat.
00:48:39Protect the emperor.
00:48:40Fall back.
00:48:49Guards.
00:48:50We can't.
00:48:51Your highness,
00:48:52run.
00:48:54That way.
00:48:55Get them.
00:48:56Father.
00:48:56I, I.
00:48:58Can't run.
00:48:59Run.
00:48:59You have to run.
00:49:01Do you want to die here?
00:49:11Father.
00:49:13It won't stop.
00:49:14Forget it.
00:49:15Move.
00:49:17They're catching up.
00:49:20I'll lure them away.
00:49:21Take him to the hollow tree,
00:49:23hide inside,
00:49:23and stay silent.
00:49:25They're over here.
00:49:26They're over here.
00:49:44Father,
00:49:45wake up.
00:49:47Look at me.
00:49:49Quiet.
00:49:51We'll be seen.
00:49:53Where are they?
00:49:55They came this way.
00:49:56Split up.
00:49:58Find them,
00:49:59dead or alive.
00:50:00Mother,
00:50:00when you fell,
00:50:01were you this helpless?
00:50:03Did you feel like you were dying too?
00:50:11Feels great.
00:50:12It's so hot.
00:50:13School's like a sauna.
00:50:14If master finds out we skipped class to swim,
00:50:17we'll get cane.
00:50:19Then don't let master find out.
00:50:21Right.
00:50:22Seth,
00:50:22what's to fear?
00:50:23If master asks,
00:50:24I'll say I brought you.
00:50:26Dad will handle it.
00:50:27Your dad's obsessed with Aunt Clara now.
00:50:29He has no time for you.
00:50:34Seth,
00:50:34is Aunt Clara really just your aunt?
00:50:37Meaning what?
00:50:38Her.
00:50:38Your dad visits her shop every day,
00:50:40with pricier gifts each time.
00:50:42My mom says he wants to marry Aunt Clara
00:50:45and make her your stepmom.
00:50:46I stay out of dad's life.
00:50:48But Seth,
00:50:49didn't you once hold Aunt Clara's hand
00:50:51and ask her to be your mom?
00:50:52I didn't know better then.
00:50:53So now that you do,
00:50:55you don't want her as mom?
00:50:57I do.
00:50:58Aunt Clara said,
00:51:00she won't marry.
00:51:01Adults are pains.
00:51:03Aunt Clara won't marry.
00:51:05But she still sees dad.
00:51:07Dad courts her,
00:51:08and she doesn't say no.
00:51:10Adults are so confusing.
00:51:22Hey,
00:51:23doing what?
00:51:29Stop that deed!
00:51:31Hit him!
00:51:31I'm not.
00:51:33I just took some food.
00:51:35My father,
00:51:36he's barely hanging on.
00:51:49Your father's dying.
00:51:50What happened?
00:51:51We were attacked.
00:51:52Father was badly hurt.
00:51:54Heirly hasn't eaten in two days.
00:51:56He's burning up.
00:51:58His wound keeps bleeding.
00:52:00I don't know what to do.
00:52:03Is that true?
00:52:05What if he's lying?
00:52:07It's true.
00:52:08He's in the woods over there,
00:52:10inside a hollow tree.
00:52:11He can't walk.
00:52:12I came out for food.
00:52:14Please,
00:52:14save my father.
00:52:16Take us to him.
00:52:20You'll help me?
00:52:21Seth,
00:52:22are you crazy?
00:52:23What if they're crooks?
00:52:25We're in the middle of nowhere.
00:52:27What if it's an ambush?
00:52:30Look at him.
00:52:31Look like a crook.
00:52:33Would one be this pathetic?
00:52:34Seth says go.
00:52:35So let's go.
00:52:36We outnumber them.
00:52:37Come on,
00:52:38get dressed.
00:52:38Let's go.
00:52:46Father,
00:52:47I'm back.
00:52:48I brought help.
00:52:52Oh god,
00:52:53that's so much blood.
00:52:54Can he survive this?
00:52:56He's burning up.
00:52:57The wound's infected.
00:52:59I know.
00:52:59But I don't know what to do.
00:53:01I can't go outside.
00:53:03They're out there to kill us.
00:53:05I haven't slept in two days.
00:53:09Come on.
00:53:10Help me.
00:53:11Get him out.
00:53:12Carry him to our family's aid post.
00:53:15How far is the aid station?
00:53:16Then we carry him.
00:53:18His life's at stake.
00:53:19If you won't help,
00:53:20go on home.
00:53:20Enough.
00:53:21Stop arguing.
00:53:22Move.
00:53:31Father,
00:53:32hang on.
00:53:33Help's here.
00:53:34Don't fall asleep.
00:53:46Mr. Sterling,
00:53:47you're a true saint.
00:53:49Our family fled the next county,
00:53:52walked three days and nights
00:53:53without a bite to eat.
00:53:55Don't be shy, ma'am.
00:53:56Careful,
00:53:57it's hot.
00:53:58More in the pot.
00:53:59Come get more.
00:54:07How old are you,
00:54:08kid?
00:54:10Five.
00:54:11Eat more.
00:54:12Eat well to grow big and strong.
00:54:32Why are you here?
00:54:34I had extra fabric.
00:54:36No good for clothes,
00:54:37but a waste to toss.
00:54:39Thinking of these refugees.
00:54:41Their clothes must be in rags,
00:54:43so I brought these over.
00:54:45Cut a piece to size
00:54:46so each gets a change of clothes
00:54:48and hand them out.
00:54:49Sure.
00:54:51Come line up,
00:54:52everyone.
00:54:53One per person.
00:54:54Don't push.
00:55:01Your shop is new
00:55:02and income isn't steady.
00:55:04Sell these fabrics
00:55:05and they'll fetch a tidy sum.
00:55:07Mr. Sterling,
00:55:08really?
00:55:09You spend on food
00:55:10and medicine
00:55:11over ten times
00:55:12what these bolts are worth.
00:55:13I should scold you.
00:55:15I do it because
00:55:16my family can afford to,
00:55:18but you...
00:55:18You run that shop alone.
00:55:21Every penny you have
00:55:22was hard-earned.
00:55:23Mr. Sterling,
00:55:24you're underestimating me.
00:55:26I only need enough
00:55:28to run the shop.
00:55:29It's not like I expect
00:55:30to get rich from it.
00:55:32I stand corrected.
00:55:34Back when I lived elsewhere,
00:55:36I saw the rich feast
00:55:37while the poor froze to death.
00:55:39I wanted to help,
00:55:40but I was powerless.
00:55:42Now I help where I can.
00:55:44It also fulfills a wish of mine.
00:55:46Clara.
00:55:47HM.
00:55:48Nothing.
00:55:49I wanted to say your name.
00:55:52Why act so odd in daylight?
00:56:06I'll head back.
00:56:08The shop needs me.
00:56:10Don't walk me out.
00:56:12Carry on.
00:56:13Dinner at the shop tonight.
00:56:14Seth wants pork stew.
00:56:16Okay.
00:56:17I'll come by.
00:56:21Your lady left.
00:56:22Quit staring.
00:56:23Pot's burning.
00:56:24What lady?
00:56:25Don't say that.
00:56:26Hey.
00:56:26Sooner or later.
00:56:37Father, hang on.
00:56:39Almost there.
00:56:41Look at those children.
00:56:43They're carrying someone sick.
00:56:45More people fleeing.
00:56:47This plague.
00:56:48When will it ever end?
00:56:59Dad.
00:57:00Dad.
00:57:00Save him.
00:57:05Son.
00:57:15Who is he?
00:57:16Please, save my father.
00:57:19If you save him, I'll give you anything.
00:57:21Don't kneel.
00:57:22Saving him comes first.
00:57:24Fetch the old physician.
00:57:25Hurry.
00:57:32It's serious.
00:57:34The wound's infected.
00:57:36It's been untreated for two days.
00:57:38We have no medicine or clean water.
00:57:41I...
00:57:41I can't do anything.
00:57:44What's your father's name?
00:57:45Ah, Hayes.
00:57:46What does Mr. Hayes do?
00:57:49He's...
00:57:49A traitor.
00:57:50We came to buy goods in Belhaven.
00:57:52Bandits attacked us.
00:57:54Our guards fled.
00:57:55Father was hurt.
00:57:56That's how we ended up here.
00:58:03I'll do my best.
00:58:05Will this fever break?
00:58:07Tonight we'll tell.
00:58:13Son, are you alright?
00:58:14Are you hurt?
00:58:15Dad, those two.
00:58:17Don't they seem a little odd?
00:58:18What's odd?
00:58:18It's the younger one.
00:58:19He doesn't talk like a commoner.
00:58:21And the way he calls his father.
00:58:22No ordinary son would talk to his dad that way.
00:58:25Whoever they are, they're hurt and here in Belhaven.
00:58:28We can't just let them die.
00:58:29Questions can wait till they wake.
00:58:31Tenu.
00:58:32Oh, Dad.
00:58:33Aunt Clara's braising pork tonight.
00:58:35You didn't forget?
00:58:36Go on ahead.
00:58:37Tell Aunt Clara I can't leave right now.
00:58:39I'll come by later.
00:58:40Okay.
00:58:54Why's Mr. Sterling late?
00:58:57Seth's been here a while now.
00:58:59Seth.
00:59:00Dad said he's stuck at the relief center and will come later.
00:59:06Then, let's eat.
00:59:08Keep his food warm on the stove.
00:59:10Can we?
00:59:11Eat.
00:59:12It won't be as good cold.
00:59:16Yum.
00:59:17Aunt Clara's braised pork is the best ever.
00:59:20Young master.
00:59:21Such a sweet talker.
00:59:27I hear you cut afternoon class.
00:59:31How did Aunt Clara know?
00:59:33Your master stopped by this afternoon for his clothes.
00:59:36He said you cut class with three classmates.
00:59:39He was livid.
00:59:40And said he'd expel you.
00:59:42I was saving a life.
00:59:44Saved.
00:59:46We were playing by the creek.
00:59:48When a young guy stole our bread.
00:59:50He said his dad was badly hurt.
00:59:52So we went to check on them.
00:59:55There was a bloody man lying in a hollow tree.
00:59:58I carried him to the shelter and dad got a doctor for him.
01:00:02Skipping class to play and playing hero.
01:00:05You've got nerve.
01:00:06Isn't saving them good?
01:00:07Saving people is good, but you skipped class first.
01:00:11Apologize to master tomorrow and catch up on your work.
01:00:14Do you hear me?
01:00:15Yes.
01:00:17How are those two guests doing now?
01:00:22Dad.
01:00:25Don't worry.
01:00:26He's saved.
01:00:34Aunt Clara, did you hear?
01:00:36The man I saved survived.
01:00:39I heard.
01:00:41You're great, Ethan.
01:00:43That father and son are interesting.
01:00:46I had servants send them food.
01:00:48The young man starved for two days, yet waited for his father to finish before eating.
01:00:52He has some backbone.
01:00:53I'll take you to visit tomorrow.
01:00:56Okay, tomorrow then.
01:00:58Me too.
01:00:59Eat your food.
01:01:01You're coming.
01:01:15Father, drink your medicine.
01:01:17Why is this so bitter?
01:01:18The old physician said it has coptis in it to clear heat and detoxify.
01:01:23Bear with it, father.
01:01:25It'll help you recover faster.
01:01:34The Sterlings are true saints.
01:01:36They serve porridge every day, twice a day, never missing a meal.
01:01:40I heard Mr. Sterling even bought herbs from outside to give out for free.
01:01:44That's right.
01:01:45My wife was treated by a doctor they hired, without charging a penny.
01:01:49These days, a good man like Mr. Sterling is impossible to find.
01:01:52Look at the government.
01:01:54They take our money for nothing.
01:01:55The plague has raged for so long.
01:01:57Who cares if we live or die?
01:01:59If not for the Sterlings, we'd have died on the road.
01:02:08It's all noble consort Yi's fault.
01:02:10Her family collects taxes and seizes land, forcing us to flee our homes.
01:02:15That's so true.
01:02:16The late empress was so virtuous.
01:02:18During her 20-year reign, the palace was peaceful, and the realm was at peace.
01:02:23The emperor is so foolish, spoiling that consort out of bounds.
01:02:27When Empress Clara was around, he didn't cherish her.
01:02:30Now that she's gone, regret comes too late.
01:02:34What do these treacherous peasants know?
01:02:41Dad, you're hurt.
01:02:43Don't get upset.
01:02:45I heard that.
01:02:46The emperor and prince came to Belhaven, undercover.
01:02:50Undercover my ass.
01:02:52When have they ever cared about us living or dying?
01:02:56It's just for show.
01:02:58Once they're back in the capital, it's right back to normal.
01:03:03Dad, you can't go out.
01:03:14Say what you just said again.
01:03:16Let me hear it one more time.
01:03:18Who are you to tell me?
01:03:19I'll say it.
01:03:21Who do you think you are?
01:03:22I am emperor.
01:03:24He says he's the emperor.
01:03:25Ha ha.
01:03:26An emperor dressed like this?
01:03:28Lying in this trashy shed?
01:03:30His brain must be fried.
01:03:32If you really are the emperor, then the people of this land are cursed with bad luck.
01:03:37Quiet.
01:03:37I'm the supreme ruler.
01:03:39You treacherous peasants dare speak to me so.
01:03:43Supreme ruler.
01:03:44Fine.
01:03:45Let me lay it out for you.
01:03:49You're the emperor, doting on a shady consort, letting her family levy a beauty tax to fund
01:03:55luxury, seizing our land, and ignoring the plague.
01:03:58Ignoring refugees too.
01:04:00Who do you think you are, acting big here?
01:04:03I run the nation.
01:04:04State affairs are heavy.
01:04:06You treacherous peasants.
01:04:07State affairs?
01:04:08If the late empress hadn't held it up, your realm would have collapsed.
01:04:12When she was alive, how was the world?
01:04:15And how is it now?
01:04:17Don't you know?
01:04:18What do you know?
01:04:19Ruling is hard work.
01:04:20The empress.
01:04:21She was merely...
01:04:22You say merely...
01:04:23She ran your palace for twenty years.
01:04:26Raised the prince.
01:04:27Cleaned your consort's mess.
01:04:29Yet you doted on that temptress, never looking at her.
01:04:33Now that she's dead, you remember her worth?
01:04:35Too late.
01:04:37I...
01:04:38I am emperor.
01:04:39You can't.
01:04:40Can't.
01:04:41Today, I will avenge the late empress on you.
01:04:44Good hit.
01:04:45Beat this tyrant.
01:04:46Ruling is hard.
01:04:48Is our life easy?
01:04:50You feast on your throne.
01:04:51While we starve in dirt.
01:04:54What's hard for you?
01:04:58Stop.
01:04:59Stop it.
01:05:00He is the emperor.
01:05:01Don't hit him.
01:05:02Take him away.
01:05:03Get him out of here.
01:05:10Get out.
01:05:11Don't dirty Mr. Sterling's land.
01:05:17Father.
01:05:18Are you okay?
01:05:21I'm okay.
01:05:22I'm okay.
01:05:30Aunt Clara.
01:05:31Hurry.
01:05:32I'll take you to Mr. Hayes.
01:05:39You?
01:05:40Why are you here?
01:05:41Where's your dad?
01:05:42Father.
01:05:43He.
01:05:44How did this happen?
01:05:46Wasn't he fine yesterday?
01:05:52This is serious.
01:05:59Queen.
01:06:04Bring him in.
01:06:08Am I dead?
01:06:09Why else would I be seeing you?
01:06:15Mom.
01:06:22You're still hurt.
01:06:23Don't move.
01:06:24Let go.
01:06:25I'll get you some water.
01:06:28I won't.
01:06:29If I let go, you'll leave.
01:06:35Father.
01:06:36Don't talk.
01:06:37Get some rest.
01:06:37Empress.
01:06:38I know it's you.
01:06:40I can't be wrong.
01:06:42You're still alive.
01:06:45The former empress is dead.
01:06:47Before you now is Clara Vance.
01:06:50That's nonsense.
01:06:51You are her.
01:06:52You're my empress.
01:06:54Mine.
01:06:56If you want to live longer, stop struggling.
01:06:59You won't accept me.
01:07:01Is it because I treated you so badly?
01:07:05I failed you.
01:07:06You ran my palace for 20 years, raised the crown prince, and cleaned up the consort's messes.
01:07:13But I never once said a kind word to you.
01:07:16What good is any of this now?
01:07:18I know it won't.
01:07:19But if I don't say it, I may never get the chance.
01:07:25Empress.
01:07:26Come back to the palace.
01:07:28I'm not going back.
01:07:29Why?
01:07:30I was wrong.
01:07:31I'll treat you well from now on.
01:07:32I won't favor the consort again.
01:07:34I'll make her kneel and apologize.
01:07:36You know full well you want me back.
01:07:38Not because you miss me.
01:07:39But because you know without me, you can't rule this realm.
01:07:44The consort cut stipends, claimed foreign relics, taxed and seized land, driving people from home.
01:07:52Now plague rages.
01:07:55You went undercover, and your own people beat you bloody.
01:07:59Now you regret it.
01:08:01But not for how you wronged me.
01:08:04You regret realizing that without me, you can't hold the throne.
01:08:08No.
01:08:08I truly missed you.
01:08:11Miss me or not, I'm never going back.
01:08:14The woman in the palace who ran it all, fixed your messes, and suffered in silence for 20 years as
01:08:21empress.
01:08:22Died in the flood at Dragon Ridge.
01:08:25Mother.
01:08:26You hate me, right?
01:08:28No, I don't.
01:08:30You lied.
01:08:31You must hate me.
01:08:33At my wedding, I shamed you publicly.
01:08:36I called your rules stale and rigid.
01:08:38You thought I was strict because I disliked you.
01:08:41You didn't understand.
01:08:43I made you study and obey the rules because you're the heir.
01:08:46One day, this realm will be yours to rule.
01:08:49I understand now.
01:08:50But.
01:08:52Too late.
01:08:55Queen, I'm glad I saw you one last time.
01:09:01Father.
01:09:04Better this way.
01:09:06This life wore us both out.
01:09:12Mother.
01:09:14Father's gone.
01:09:16I know.
01:09:20Mother.
01:09:22Come back to the palace, I beg you, I am so sorry.
01:09:26All my life, I never gave you peace of mind.
01:09:30You told me to study, yet I just played.
01:09:33You told me to avoid Isabella, yet I stayed close.
01:09:36On my wedding day, I humiliated you in public.
01:09:41Enough.
01:09:43What good is slapping?
01:09:45Mother, I know I was wrong.
01:09:47Please come back with me, I'll do whatever you say.
01:09:50Stand up and talk.
01:09:51If you won't agree, I won't get up.
01:09:54How old are you now?
01:09:5620.
01:09:56At 20, you should be a man.
01:09:58Your father is gone.
01:10:00You rule this empire now.
01:10:01As the sovereign, crying on your knees here is disgraceful.
01:10:08If you want me back, fine.
01:10:10I have conditions.
01:10:12As long as you return, I'll agree to anything.
01:10:14First, depose your wife.
01:10:20Second, banish Isabella, never to return.
01:10:24But she...
01:10:24Third, all millers guilty of land grabs and harm must be punished.
01:10:29The rest, exiled 3,000 miles, never to return.
01:10:37Why can't you?
01:10:40The princess was foolish.
01:10:43Not to die.
01:10:47How did father die?
01:10:49How did you two...
01:10:51End up like this?
01:10:53When you went south, why were you cornered?
01:10:56Why were you recognized and chased down?
01:10:59You know why?
01:11:00Because Isabella taxed them.
01:11:03The poor couldn't pay, so millers took land.
01:11:06They recognized father and demanded justice.
01:11:09So you see now, father's death was partly his poor governance.
01:11:13But what drove you to this ruin was, millers.
01:11:16I understand.
01:11:17If you truly do, you'd know.
01:11:20The millers must go, the princess too.
01:11:23And Isabella as well.
01:11:25If you lack this resolve, this throne, you'll lose.
01:11:30Mother, I promise.
01:11:32Princess deposed.
01:11:34Banish Isabella.
01:11:37And punish the millers.
01:11:39Rise.
01:11:40You're emperor now.
01:11:42Don't kneel so easily.
01:11:44Where to, mother?
01:11:46I have business in Belhaven, and people to say goodbye to.
01:11:51Okay, I'll wait.
01:12:03Aunt Clara, you're back.
01:12:11I need to talk to you all.
01:12:15I am not a Vance family widow.
01:12:18My real name is indeed Clara.
01:12:20But my identity is the Empress.
01:12:26So.
01:12:27The one I saved.
01:12:28That Mr. Hayes.
01:12:30He.
01:12:30He's emperor.
01:12:32Then that young man.
01:12:33He's.
01:12:34The crown prince.
01:12:35Now.
01:12:36The emperor died.
01:12:38He's now the emperor.
01:12:41Your majesty.
01:12:47Uncle Scott, don't kneel.
01:12:49In my heart.
01:12:51You're still Uncle Scott who taught me the trade.
01:12:54And I'm still Clara, learning craft from you.
01:12:59All of you, rise.
01:13:09William, don't you have any questions?
01:13:15You were the empress all along.
01:13:19Once I chose to leave the capital, I stopped being empress.
01:13:23She spent 20 years in the palace, ran the royal harem, and oversaw the crown prince's lessons,
01:13:29and cleaned up the consort's messes.
01:13:31She died on Dragon Ridge.
01:13:33All this time in Belhaven.
01:13:36I've just been an ordinary dress shop owner.
01:13:40I'm Clara Vance.
01:13:42But now you're going back.
01:13:44I have to go back.
01:13:47Aunt Clara, you said the empress was dead.
01:13:50You said you'd stay in Belhaven and live a good life.
01:13:53You promised to teach me to read.
01:13:56Seth, listen to me.
01:13:57I won't.
01:13:58You promised me.
01:14:00You'd see me get into the academy.
01:14:02You'd teach me to write essays.
01:14:04You're a liar.
01:14:06What did I teach you, Seth?
01:14:09Keep a clear conscience.
01:14:12Stand true and righteous.
01:14:14That is the way.
01:14:16Remember?
01:14:17Isabella poisons the court and bleeds the people.
01:14:21The emperor died.
01:14:22The new emperor's young.
01:14:24The realm's in chaos.
01:14:26In Belhaven, I'm Clara, not empress.
01:14:29But now, the realm needs its empress back.
01:14:32Not because she wants the throne, but because her work isn't finished.
01:14:41So, when it's all done, will you come back?
01:15:01Your majesty.
01:15:02Your majesty.
01:15:05Call me Mrs. Vance, Mr. Sterling.
01:15:08The title of empress, coming from your mouth, feels wrong.
01:15:15Mrs. Vance, I was foolish before.
01:15:18How so?
01:15:19You're the empress, the late emperor's wife, mother of the nation.
01:15:23I'm just a merchant.
01:15:24To dream of marrying you, I was overstepping.
01:15:31I know you're good to me.
01:15:33Every gift you gave, I've kept.
01:15:36Every word you said, I remember.
01:15:39You were never foolish.
01:15:41With those words.
01:15:43Enough.
01:15:58Farewell, empress dowager.
01:16:01Long live your majesty.
01:16:03In the palace, people knelt before me daily and wished me long life.
01:16:08But back then, I heard no sincerity in those words.
01:16:12Today, I heard it.
01:16:29Your highness.
01:16:31The empress is back.
01:16:33What?
01:16:33Who's back?
01:16:50You're alive.
01:16:53Sorry to disappoint.
01:17:01What are you carrying?
01:17:11Answer me.
01:17:12What is that?
01:17:16It's father.
01:17:18Father died in Belhaven.
01:17:25No.
01:17:27How could the emperor be dead?
01:17:29He was fine when he left.
01:17:31He told me to wait for him.
01:17:35You.
01:17:36You killed the emperor.
01:17:38You hated him for loving me.
01:17:41Not you.
01:17:42So you killed him.
01:17:45The emperor died of severe injuries.
01:17:49Belhaven's people recognized him.
01:17:52And why they beat him.
01:17:55You know full well.
01:18:01Noble consort Isabella, hear the decree.
01:18:04All in the Miller family guilty of corruption and land grabs will be punished by law.
01:18:09The rest are exiled 3,000 miles, never to return to the capital.
01:18:14Crown princess Isabella is unfit for her title.
01:18:17Her title is revoked, demoted to a commoner, and expelled from the eastern palace.
01:18:24Noble consort Isabella, for bringing chaos to the court, is banished to the cold palace, never to step out again.
01:18:32That's impossible.
01:18:34You can't do this to me.
01:18:36I'm a time traveler.
01:18:38I am the heroine.
01:18:40I came here to be the empress.
01:18:42And you.
01:18:43You're just a victim of feudalism.
01:18:46Bound by rules your whole life, you deserve to be unloved.
01:18:49You deserve the emperor's cold shoulder.
01:18:51You deserve to be despised by the crown prince.
01:18:55Because you are nothing but a soulless puppet.
01:18:58In my world, I did whatever I wanted.
01:19:01I didn't follow anyone's rules.
01:19:03I lived in true freedom.
01:19:08Are you finished?
01:19:09You think what you did was freedom?
01:19:12Withholding pay, leaving maids to freeze.
01:19:15Demanding Madame Envoy's royal heirloom pendant.
01:19:18Trading three border cities for a single jade pendant.
01:19:21Condoning your family's tax grabs.
01:19:23Driving common people from their homes.
01:19:25You call that freedom?
01:19:27Everything you have done.
01:19:28Was nothing more than indulgence in the name of freedom.
01:19:31You thought you lived freely.
01:19:33But you were just selfish.
01:19:35You thought you were unique.
01:19:37But you were merely using the emperor's favor to act with impunity.
01:19:42You think you've won?
01:19:44You haven't.
01:19:45You've never had the emperor's love.
01:19:48Nor have you ever won the crown prince's heart.
01:19:51You're no better off alive than dead.
01:19:55You're right.
01:19:56The emperor never loved me.
01:19:59Nor did I win my son's heart.
01:20:0220 years here.
01:20:03I lived like the walking dead.
01:20:06But now I have.
01:20:08I have freedom, respect, and true love.
01:20:11None of it came from anyone within these palace walls.
01:20:15I earned it myself.
01:20:21System, my system, come out.
01:20:23You said I had a heroine halo.
01:20:25You said I'd become empress.
01:20:29You lied.
01:20:34Imperial consort, the system never existed.
01:20:38Yes.
01:20:39Just you.
01:20:40You'll regret it.
01:20:41Soon you'll see the rules you uphold are worthless.
01:20:46Maybe.
01:20:47Maybe.
01:20:47But at least, unlike you, I won't.
01:20:50Stake my whole life.
01:20:51On something that doesn't exist.
01:20:54Take her.
01:20:57Welcome home, Empress Dowager.
01:21:00Long live her majesty.
01:21:04Mother, I came today to discuss something with you.
01:21:07Him.
01:21:09The crown princess took her life.
01:21:12Father's mourning is over.
01:21:14I think it's time to choose a new empress.
01:21:16Yes.
01:21:17Mother, you once recommended several daughters of House Vance.
01:21:20One was Chloe Vance, the finest of her generation learned and gracious.
01:21:25And the fairest.
01:21:27Chloe.
01:21:28She's a fine girl.
01:21:30So, mother, you mean?
01:21:32Marry whoever you love.
01:21:34I won't object.
01:21:38Mother, isn't there anything else to say?
01:21:41Like what?
01:21:42Some advice, perhaps.
01:21:43Or tell me what Chloe likes, what she's like, or...
01:21:46You're a grown man.
01:21:48Must mother teach you how to wed?
01:21:51I understand.
01:21:54Leave us.
01:21:56Mother, I know no matter what I do or say, you'll never care for me the way you once did.
01:22:01I don't blame you.
01:22:03I'm the one who broke your heart.
01:22:06You've grown.
01:22:11Mother, are you happy in the palace?
01:22:14Your heart isn't here.
01:22:16It's in Belhaven, isn't it?
01:22:18Yes.
01:22:19Then, mother, go back.
01:22:21I know that in this palace, you've never known true joy.
01:22:24It's not that I failed you.
01:22:26These palace walls have trapped you.
01:22:28Your heart is in Belhaven, with the haze boy, and with that man.
01:22:32Do you know what you're saying?
01:22:34I do.
01:22:36Mother, I mean, you should go.
01:22:39Leave, go to Belhaven, see the one you long for.
01:22:42I won't keep you.
01:22:48You're all grown up.
01:22:50These past three years.
01:22:52All you've done, I saw.
01:22:54You punished the Miller family, restored order at court, calmed the people, and served the realm well.
01:23:01I made you study and obey the rules.
01:23:04I feared you couldn't bear this realm.
01:23:07Now I'm not afraid.
01:23:09Mother, do you truly think I can rule well?
01:23:11You can.
01:23:17I'll come visit you often.
01:23:19Okay.
01:23:23Empress Dowager, Carter, virtuous and gracious, has prayed for the realm and labored tirelessly.
01:23:29Her devotion moves me.
01:23:31I grant her leave from the palace to pray in seclusion.
01:23:34She shall depart today.
01:23:52Ma'am.
01:23:59June.
01:24:00Uncle Scott.
01:24:00Come quick.
01:24:01She's back.
01:24:02She's back.
01:24:03She's back.
01:24:11Ma'am, you're back.
01:24:15Majesty, no.
01:24:17Long live the Empress Dowager.
01:24:22No Empress here.
01:24:23No Dowager, either.
01:24:28The former Empress is on strike.
01:24:32But Clara clocks in today.
01:24:41We've waited every day for you.
01:24:44Uncle Scott said you were at the palace and must be miserable.
01:24:48It broke our hearts.
01:24:51You're home.
01:24:54Aunt Clara.
01:24:57Aunt Clara.
01:25:08I heard his majesty sent the Empress Dowager out to pray.
01:25:12I knew you'd come to Belhaven.
01:25:14So I ran over to see.
01:25:15I knew I was right.
01:25:17Pretty clever.
01:25:21Dad, why are you hiding?
01:25:23Come on out.
01:25:34Hey, hey.
01:25:36Dad, take your time.
01:25:38No rush.
01:25:42I've grown quite fond of you.
01:25:45If I'm not too crude for you, will you give me a chance?
01:25:48I'll be right back.
01:25:56Great.
01:25:58I could use a lover.
01:26:11Staying this time?
01:26:13I am.
01:26:16turns out life's greatest joy is meeting the right one at the right time
01:26:20no it's meeting again and falling in love after one missed chance