- 12 minutes ago
After My Fiancé's Lover Stole My Necklace
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00:00I am the only princess of the Alpha Empire.
00:02To help me better govern the kingdom,
00:04my father carefully selected the son of a talented duke to be my partner.
00:08I ordered jewelry a year in advance,
00:10just to ensure that my first date with him would go smoothly inside the jewelry store.
00:15The ruby necklace, displayed on a velvet cloth, sparkled brilliantly.
00:21This jewelry set is truly beautiful.
00:25I'd like to have it.
00:26Please wrap it up and send it to the Duke of Norton's residence.
00:29The clerk wrapped up the jewelry and handed it to her without hesitation.
00:33Please wait a moment.
00:34I purchased this piece of jewelry long ago.
00:36I am certain that no well-bred young lady of noble birth would commit such an act of disguise.
00:41Please return it to me.
00:43Who's this ugly duckling?
00:45I don't even recognize you.
00:47You must be some down and out from the countryside.
00:50How could someone like you possibly afford a ruby necklace worth 500 pounds?
00:55I am the adopted daughter of the Duke of Norton and grew up alongside his son, Gareth.
01:01I dare say there's no one in the Alpha Empires more noble than me.
01:04As it happens, Gareth Norton is my fianc.
01:07He's waiting for me in the car right now.
01:09I immediately said to the attendant next to me,
01:12Go tell Gareth to come over himself.
01:15And apologize to me on behalf of his little sweetheart.
01:21Ella had her guards surround me and mocked me for having delusions.
01:25Good heavens!
01:26Listen to what she's saying!
01:28She wants Gareth to come and apologize to her in person.
01:32Do you think you're a princess or something?
01:34I looked at her calmly, as if I were watching a clown.
01:37You're not worthy of knowing my identity.
01:39But if Gareth can't give me a reasonable explanation today, I'll call off the engagement.
01:45I didn't care about her provocation.
01:47I was more concerned about why the attendant I had sent out hadn't returned yet.
01:52Just as I was about to send a guard to look for her, she returned, her face pale.
01:57Your Highness, Lord Gareth rudely refused your orders.
02:00He even said,
02:01Your correctionness and willness bring shame upon the Norton family.
02:05He demands that you apologize to Miss Ella.
02:08He was merely the son of a Duke, yet he dared to treat me with such contempt.
02:13Hearing this, Ella, standing nearby, laughed at me without restraint, her expression brimming with triumph.
02:19You lowly commoner!
02:20Do you really think you can just go see Gareth whenever you please?
02:23If you get down on your knees and beg me, I might just consider introducing you to him.
02:29She eyed me up and down with a look of contempt.
02:34But dressed so cheaply and wearing a veil, you're probably some hideous creature no one wants to see.
02:43Gareth probably wouldn't want to meet you.
02:46I wear the veil only to hide the conspicuous birthmark on my forehead and I dress simply for comfort when
02:51traveling.
02:52I never expected this would become a reason for others to look down on me.
02:59A true noblewoman would never judge a person by their appearance.
03:02You claim to have grown up with Gareth, yet I've never heard of you.
03:06Miss, impersonating a noble is a capital offense.
03:08Thanks to her, I'd completely lost my desire to shop.
03:12It seems I'll have to ask my father to deal with the Norton family properly once we return.
03:17I picked up the ruby necklace and ordered my attendant to bring out a bag of gold coins to pay.
03:22The shopkeeper glanced at Ella and me, then said timidly,
03:26Miss, I'm sorry, but I cannot sell you this necklace. We only serve the nobility.
03:31Ella smirked triumphantly and slammed a Norton family crest badge down on the counter.
03:37Open your dog eyes and take a good look at this!
03:40How dare you play the victim? I think you're the one pretending to be nobility.
03:44I hadn't expected her to actually have a family crest.
03:48And judging by the design, it was the same one as Gareth's.
03:51I was instantly livid.
03:54The relationship was far more than just childhood friends.
03:56This young lady must be a secret lover.
04:00I took a deep breath, forced down my anger, and produced the royal jade token.
04:09Can we wrap up this piece of jewelry now?
04:17Ella's expression flickered with panic before she regained her composure.
04:22You actually dared to forge the princess's jade token?
04:25She pointed at the clerk and threatened.
04:26How dare you custom make jewelry for someone like that!
04:29Tomorrow I'll have Gareth shut down this shop and throw all of you in jail!
04:33Terrified, the clerk immediately knelt before Ella.
04:36Miss Ella, I'm innocent! I'm just an employee! I don't even know her!
04:40And I'd never dare offend the Norton family!
04:42The customers around them couldn't stand it any longer and turned to try to calm the situation.
04:46Last time someone offended her, apparently a noblewoman.
04:48Gareth had her thrown into the sea to be eaten by sharks.
04:51Miss, the Norton family's status in the empire is unmatched.
04:55Even a princess would have to marry Gareth.
04:57You'd better apologize to all the attention that she mocked and talted me even more from brazenly.
05:02You worthless slut! Now you know who's boss!
05:04Get on your knees right now, slap yourself a hundred times, and say,
05:07I am a worthless fool.
05:09Maybe then, I'll consider letting you off.
05:11Hearing that, I was so furious I burst out laughing.
05:15In my 20 years of life, I've never seen anyone so brazen as to dare order a princess to kneel.
05:21And as for the Norton family, after half a century of glory, it's time for them to fade into obscurity.
05:30I shot Ella, a cold stare.
05:33Are you sure you want to talk to me like that?
05:36Do I really have to repeat myself?
05:38Not only are you ugly, you're deaf as a post!
05:41To be alive is to waste the air of the Alpha Empire!
05:45I've already given you a chance, Ella.
05:47Haven't I?
05:48You'll pay for your actions!
05:49Seeing that I still dared to stand my ground, Ella turned green with rage.
05:53Throwing all decorum to the wind, she lunged at me, claws outstretched.
05:57You wretch!
05:58It seems you won't learn your lesson until you're in your coffin.
06:01Just wait.
06:01I'll have you begging me for mercy in no time.
06:04Watching her comical attempt to attack me,
06:07I am, after all, a princess of the Empire.
06:10I've trained in combat since childhood, did she really think she could hurt me?
06:14I kicked her straight to the ground and looked down at her as she howled in agony.
06:18You wretch! I'll kill you!
06:19The people around us stared at me in horror.
06:22Good heavens!
06:23She actually dared to strike Miss Ella!
06:25It's over!
06:26She's finished!
06:27Lord Gareth will tear her to pieces.
06:29This is utterly cruel.
06:31You must flee while Lord Gareth is still away.
06:33Otherwise, not even God can save you.
06:39Listening to their chatter, I remained absolutely unmoved.
06:42Gareth is nothing but a baron.
06:44Even if his father, the Duke of Norton, were to arrive, he would still have to apologize to me.
06:49The dignity of the Empire must not be violated.
06:51I slammed a bag of gold coins down on the counter and glared at the shop attendant.
06:56Check out!
06:57The shop assistant was clearly startled.
06:59He fumbled to open the bag, nearly blinded by the glittering gold coins inside.
07:04Miss, your necklace is all wrapped up.
07:06I took the gift box and was about to leave.
07:08But to my surprise, Ella actually dared to block my path.
07:12Her eyes were red, and she glared at me with hatred.
07:16You bitch!
07:17You hit me and think you can just walk away like that?
07:20You're dreaming!
07:22But at a single glance from me, she flinched and looked away in fear.
07:28I smired inwardly at her cowardness.
07:32Just then, a tall, muscular black horse came to a halt at the shop entrance.
07:37A man leapt nimbly from the saddle.
07:39The sun shone upon him, as if bathing him in a golden glow.
07:44My heart began to race uncontrollably.
07:50As soon Ella saw Gatheth, she rushed towards him in tears, pouring out her grievances.
07:55Gareth!
07:55Why have you me just arrived?
07:57It was her who snort my jewelry and even stroked me!
08:00A complete contrast to the arrogant manner she displayed in front of me.
08:04Gareth frowned as he looked at me.
08:06I felt no fear and took the opportunity to size up my fiant.
08:09Father knew my tastes well.
08:11In terms of appearance alone, Gareth was beyond reproach.
08:14I always have a little more patience with handsome men, so I offered him a smile.
08:18Hello, Lord Gareth.
08:20I am your fiancé, Margaret.
08:22I held out my hand to him.
08:24But he stopped my hand mid-air.
08:26No need, Miss Margaret.
08:27I do not wish to shake hands with someone so ill, mannered.
08:31The onlookers immediately began to murmur.
08:34Oh, my dear God!
08:35Is she really the Empire's princess, Gareth's fiancé?
08:42Gareth looked at me with utter contempt.
08:44Your Highness, as you must know, this marriage was arranged by my father.
08:48He did not seek my consent.
08:50Ella, standing beside him, linked her arm through his affectionately and rested her head on his shoulder.
08:55So this is the princess who, according to rumor, can't find a husband?
08:58Ella flashed me a defiant smile.
09:00You're nothing but a pathetic creature who's forced Gareth to marry you through sheer power.
09:04What's there to be so arrogant about?
09:06The Nortons are far too arrogant.
09:07How dare they treat us, the princess, like this?
09:09Rumor has it the princess ugly.
09:10She's twenty and still unmarried.
09:12I reckon the Norton family have been harboring resentment for quite some time.
09:15Hearing their gossip, I snired inward.
09:17I've never showed my face in publics.
09:19So how could their rumors of me being ugly?
09:21I suspect someone has deliberately spread them.
09:23But this has made me see through Gareth's lily and ignorance.
09:25Enough, Gareth Norton. Go back and tell your father that this engagement is off.
09:29You are unworthy of marrying into the royal family.
09:35According to my father, this marriage was only secured because the Duke of Norton sated a large portion of his
09:41lands.
09:41Now that it has been ruined by his foolish son, I imagine the Duke of Norton will be so furious
09:46that he'll choose a different heir.
09:48At this thought, I felt a little better.
09:51If a dog bites you, you can't very well hold it against the dog.
09:54I couldn't be bothered to waste any more time on this pair of fools, so I turned to leave.
09:59But Ella blocked my path once again.
10:02She stood with her hands on her hips, looking incredibly defiant.
10:07Even if you're a princess, you've got to give me back my ruby necklace!
10:11I looked at her with contempt.
10:13I paid for that.
10:15Are you trying to rob me?
10:17Ella hadn't expected me to talk back.
10:20Relying on Gath's presence, she raised her hand to strike me.
10:23You're just an unloved princess! I'm going to give you a proper beating!
10:27As she swung her arm, I seized her wrist and raised my hand to slap her heart across the face.
10:31By watching the spectacle flow into a rage.
10:33Margaret! How dare you lay a hand on her!
10:35Where is your royal upbringing?
10:40It's you lot who are ill-mannered, not me.
10:43That slap shattered 18 years of her pride.
10:45She felt as though everyone was laughing at her.
10:48Ella cowered behind Gareth and burst into tears.
10:50Gareth, am I not the girl you love most?
10:53Are you just going to let her bully me?
10:59Margaret! You've forced my hand!
11:02He signaled to his guards to seize me.
11:04I looked a complete mess.
11:06The veil on my face had been torn away, revealing the lily mark on my forehead.
11:10Seeing this, a look of jealousy flashed in Ella's eyes.
11:13A hint of panic flickered in Gareth's eyes.
11:16Ella, take whatever revenge you wish upon her.
11:19I shall ensure your safety.
11:21Ella was utterly triumphant.
11:22She slapped me twice with all her might, then spat in my face.
11:26You will regret this!
11:28I swear by my title as Imperial Princess that you will be doomed forever!
11:37The unlockers stared at me in astonishment.
11:39They hadn't expected such a beautiful face to lie beneath the veil, and their eyes were filled with regret.
11:45The flames of jealousy burn ever brighter within Ella, and she remained absurdly unconcerned by my threats.
11:50She gazed hauntily at my face.
11:52The Norton family is the Empire's foremost noble house, and the Duke of Norton holds a position of great importance
11:57within the dynasty.
11:58You are nothing but an unmarriageable, over-the-hill princess. What could you possibly do to me?
12:02She gave a light chuckle, drew a dagger from the guard at her side, and twilled it in the air
12:07a couple of times.
12:08Today, I shall show you the consequences of crossing me!
12:12She advanced towards me step by step. The cold blade pressed firmly to my skin. A sharp pain shot through
12:19me.
12:20My eyes widened in terror as I dodged the blow with all my might.
12:25She actually intended to destroy the mark on my forehead!
12:28Even passers-by couldn't bear to watch, and couldn't help but feel sympathy for me.
12:33I told her ages ago not to cross the Norton family, but she wouldn't listen.
12:37Good heavens! How could she bring herself to harm such a beautiful princess? She queenly have no regard to the
12:42family!
12:42I'm going to tell the monarch. Even if the princess is out of favour, no one has the right to
12:47treat her this way!
12:48Unaffected by the crowd, Ella aimed the blade at my forehead and stabbed down.
12:52In that critical moment, I had no choice but to beg for mercy.
12:55After all, a wise man avoids immediate trouble.
12:58Stop! Can't I just give you the necklace?
13:00Gareth, I'll apologise to your little lover, just make her put that dagger away!
13:04Yet Ella's hand did not falter. The blade remained fixed on my forehead.
13:10It's too late to apologise now, you slut!
13:13Just wait until your face is ruined for life, and you're nothing but a puppet princess!
13:19Ella's expression was frenzied.
13:22Without that face, I'll see how you manage to seduce men.
13:26Gareth, you know my status. You should understand the consequences of offending me.
13:30If you let her continue to humiliate me, your entire family will be buried with you.
13:34You're nothing but a disowned princess. If it weren't for a stroke of luck, you'd never have set foot in
13:40the Norton family.
13:41Gareth, she's just bluffing. I'd bet that even if I stripped her naked in front of everyone, the monarch wouldn't
13:47bat an eyelash.
13:47No, you mustn't do this!
13:49Just as she was about to order her attendants to act, a royal carrier pigeon suddenly landed before me.
13:54Gareth's expression changed. He immediately took out the letter and read it aloud.
13:57My daughter, how is your rendezvous with Gareth going? Are you satisfied with the fiancé your father has chosen for
14:02you?
14:03Gareth's expression changed.
14:06Taking advantage of a moment when everyone's attention had wandered, and lunged at the carrier pigeon in Gareth's hand.
14:15Gareth was clearly startled. Ella, quick as a blash, snatched the pigeon up and held it high in the air.
14:23Stop right there, or I'll smash this pin to death!
14:27I glared at her in fury.
14:30You dare? This is a royal carrier pigeon. No one is permitted to kill it without authorization!
14:36Before I'd finished my sentence, Ella hurled the pigeon riotly to the ground.
14:41It's just a beast. If I kill it, I kill it.
14:45The poor bird flapped its wings feebly once, then drew its last breath.
14:49Taking advantage of my shock, she slapped me across the face.
14:52You must have stolen this pigeon! How could the monarch, with all his duties, possibly find the time to write
14:57to you?
14:58Margaret, stop deluding yourself!
15:00Her words made me tremble with rage.
15:03I'm deluding myself. I think it's you lot who are caught in death, daring to slaughter a royal carrier pigeon
15:10on a Windin.
15:11The Norton family will fall because of your arrogance.
15:15How dare you curse my family! God, smash her mouth in!
15:20I struggled desperately. Time seemed to slow to a cramp, as if a century had passed in that single moment,
15:27until a familiar carriage appeared.
15:35My father, Edmund, stepped down and shouted sternly.
15:38How dare you! Let's see who dares lay a finger on my daughter!
15:46The moment I saw my father pent-up grievances in my heart surged forth like a tidal wave.
15:51Father!
15:52I looked at him with reddened eyes, seeing me covered in wounds and pinned to the ground by a host
15:56of guards, was instantly overcoming with rage.
15:58Gareth, is this how you treat my daughter?
16:00He walked over to me, helped me to my feet, his eyes filled with concern.
16:04My daughter, it is I who have failed to protect you.
16:07The Norton family must answer for this today!
16:11Gareth's face turned pale in an instant. His legs gave way and he nearly fell to his knees.
16:15No, that's not how it is. Margaret was in the wrong first. I haven't shown favour to anyone.
16:20Ella yanked Gareth to his feet, her gaze fixed on Edmund with disdain.
16:23You say you're the monarch, so you must be.
16:25Everyone knows the monarch detests Margaret most of all.
16:27You're defending her so fiercely, you must be an imposter!
16:30She looked at Gareth expectantly.
16:31Gareth?
16:32Are you certain the monarch once from a distance and could not least see recumbressive features at all?
16:35He could answer Ella with bated breath.
16:37I'm not sure.
16:38Ella breathed a sigh of relief.
16:39Margaret, it's not enough that you've stolen my jewels.
16:42You've actually gone and found someone to impersonate the monarch.
16:44If you don't want me to report you, you'd better...
16:47Edmund raised his gaze to meet Ella's.
16:48His dignified face was now clouded with murderous...
16:50What do you intend to make my daughter do?
16:55I spotted the necklace first, but she touched it with her filthy hands, so she must buy me a new
17:00one.
17:00What's more, she hit me, so to make amends she must slap herself a hundred times in front of everyone.
17:06Hmph.
17:07Edmund couldn't help but snort deduciously upon hearing Ella's preposterous demands.
17:13He looked at me with affection, patted the back of my hand gently, then walked over to Ella.
17:21Margaret's betrothal to the Norton family is certainly to be annulled.
17:24Gareth is of such vile character that he is unworthy of marrying into the royal family.
17:30Edmund raised his hand and slapped Ella hard across the face.
17:33They will all be returned to you, unchanged.
17:40Ella covered her face and stared at Edmund in disbelief.
17:46You commoner! How dare you strike me!
17:49Edmund didn't wish to waste any more words on them, and simply ordered the soldiers to arrest the two of
17:55us.
17:56I looked down on them from above.
17:59Gareth was forced to kneel before me, glaring at me furiously.
18:05Margaret! Make him stop at once!
18:08Do you know the consequences of offending the Norton family?
18:12My Margaret has never suffered a single wrong since the day she was born.
18:16Even I could never bring myself to strike her.
18:19And yet you, a mere baron, dare to allow your mistress to humiliate her in this manner.
18:23You and your family will pay a thousand fold, ten thousand fold price for this.
18:32Gareth glared at Edmund in fury.
18:34You scoundrel! How dare you lay a hand on me!
18:38I am the heir to the Norton family.
18:40My father fought alongside the Emperor to conquer this entire empire.
18:45You'd better prepare to rot in prison for the rest of your life!
18:49Edmund looked at him calmly.
18:51You've hurt my daughter. Even if it were your own father, I'd punish him just the same.
19:00The Empire has no need for disobedient dogs.
19:05The Onwitters were utterly shocked.
19:07Who on earth is that man? I don't know him either.
19:11But he's quite something to dare cross the Norton family.
19:15You must remember, the Duke of Norton is the monarch's most trusted minister.
19:19He's a figure who can pull the strings of the entire empire.
19:22Edmund paid no heed to the murmurs of the crowd.
19:24He looked at me with tenderness.
19:26His fingertip gently tracing the cut on my cheek.
19:29His voice brimming with affection.
19:31Margaret, my dear daughter.
19:33My negligence has caused you such immense suffering.
19:36Now you may take your revenge.
19:37Even if it costs a life, it matters not.
19:40They all thought I was a delicate flower.
19:42But in truth, I had accompanied my father to the battlefield from a very young age.
19:48I looked at Gareth and Ella, and a cruel smile spread across my face.
19:57I walked slowly towards Ella, savoring the look of terror and fear on her face.
20:01Don't come any closer!
20:02If you lay a finger on me, the Norton family won't let you off!
20:05My response was a series of resounding slaps, one after another, until her face was so swollen she could no
20:10longer speak.
20:11Didn't you say you'd slap me a hundred times?
20:14It's only been sixty off so far. How come you can't take it?
20:17I picked up the dagger lying nearby, still stained with my blood.
20:21The tip of the blade slowly drew closer to her face.
20:24Ella began to tremble violently and finally broke down.
20:27Don't ruin my face, I beg you, your highness! Aren't you the most merciful of all?
20:32I gave a cold laugh and, without hesitation, carved a long grash across her face, running from her brow to
20:39her chin.
20:40She let out a blood-curtling scream.
20:43Moments later, she fainted from the pain.
20:47I kicked her awake and held up a mirror so she could see her disfigured face.
20:52Ah! My face! My face is ruined!
20:56Watched her agony, my heart unmoved.
20:59God will forgive me, for I am punishing the wicked.
21:03When she tried to ruin my face, she should have been prepared for retribution.
21:10Gareth, standing nearby, watched the scene unfold and roared at me furiously.
21:15You mad woman! Let Ella go at once!
21:18Do you have any idea how much my father adores Ella?
21:20He'll make you pay for this!
21:21Edmund regarded him coldly.
21:23Since you've put it that way, I must summon William.
21:25Then you'll see who ends up punishing whom.
21:27Edmund ordered a servant, standing nearby to fetch William.
21:31Moments later, William arrived at a gallop on horseback.
21:34Before he had even had a chance to catch his breath, he heard Gareth's voice, full of surprise and delight.
21:39Father, you've finally arrived!
21:40This wretch actually dared to impersonate the Sovereign. Seize him at once!
21:43William followed his gaze and saw Edmund.
21:45His face dark with fury. The color drained from his own face.
21:49William, is this the fine son you've raised?
21:52Sensing his anger, William hastily offered a conciliatory smile.
21:56Your Majesty, there must be some misunderstanding.
21:58If Garrus has done anything out of line, please do tell me. I shall certainly punish you.
22:02A misunderstanding?
22:04Your son and adopted daughter publicly humiliated my daughter and scarred her face. Is that a misunderstanding?
22:11My precious daughter, May Margaret, has suffered a terrible humiliation.
22:16William, how do you memends done to the Princess of the Empire?
22:23Cold sweat poured down William's forehead. He looked at Gaith with disappointment, trembling with rage.
22:29You wretch! How dare you mistreat the Princess!
22:33She is the monarch's pride and joy. It seems I must reconsider the line of accession.
22:38Ella, I am utterly disappointed in you. From this day forward, you shall no longer be under the protection of
22:47the Norton family.
22:48Gareth and Ella turned pale.
22:50Father, you cannot treat me this way. I have done nothing wrong. It was she who bullied Ella first.
22:56She is a spoiled brat and utterly unworthy of marrying into the Norton family.
23:00William raised his hand and struck Gareth across the face.
23:03What nonsense are you spouting? How could her royal miness possibly marry down to you?
23:09It is you who will marry into the royal family. The Princess is to become the Empire's next monarch.
23:16No, it's impossible. There has never been a precedent in the Empire for a woman to inherit the throne, let
23:24alone Margaret, who is merely an unfavored princess.
23:30Edmund waved William away and stepped in front of Gareth.
23:33Gareth, who on earth gave you the audacity to humiliate Margaret time and time again?
23:38Not even the most powerful ministers dare speak ill of me in his presence. Gareth was simply courting death.
23:43I kicked Gareth hard in the back and he fell face down with a thud before Edmund.
23:52Father, why get angry over such fools? Leave the rest to your daughter. I know best how to deal with
23:57the likes of them.
24:01Father, do send someone to tend to my face at once, or your daughter really will end up a hideous
24:06creature.
24:06My words brought Edmund back to his senses. After all, the Norton family had flourished in the Empire for decades.
24:12Eradicating them, Competman looked at me with tenderness, understanding the implication of my words.
24:17The finest physicians in the entire Empire gathered together, all to ensure not a single scar remained on my face.
24:27I'm so sorry.
24:29It's all right.
24:31Margaret, it was my overprotectiveness that led the outside world to misunderstand you.
24:35Do you hate me for not letting you go out as you please?
24:37Father, I know you did this to protect me.
24:39Although I cannot go out, the finest tutors in the Empire come to instruct me every day.
24:43I am in no way inferior to anyone.
24:50My father was the Empire's most valiant warrior.
24:55He had many followers, and William was merely the most unremarkable among them.
25:00That was the year he met my mother.
25:03One was a young monarch, the other an elegant noblewoman.
25:06It was love at first sight.
25:09From that moment on, his heart belonged solely to my mother.
25:15And so I was born.
25:17I became the happiest princess in the Empire.
25:20But misfortune often strikes without warning.
25:29During a spring outing, my mother and I were ambushed by assassins.
25:33My mother lost her life protecting me, a young child.
25:41When my father arrived, all he saw was me.
25:46He suppressed his grief and took me back to the palace for treatment.
25:49Only after ensuring my safety did he dare to give fuss to his sorrow before my mother's coffin.
25:55It was he who laid her to rest with his own hands.
25:58Ever since that day, he has been acutely aware of the dangers of drawing attention.
26:04To protect me from further assassination attempts, he rarely allowed me to leave the palace.
26:10Consequently, rumors began to circulate that the princess was unfavored, or even despised by the Sovereign.
26:16Only the Empire's most trusted officials knew the truth.
26:19Clearly, that fool Gareth had not yet had time to learn the truth before his arrogance cost him his right
26:24to the throne.
26:28After a week of treatment, the wounds on my face have healed completely.
26:31The lily mark on my forehead has also grown ever more vivid, as if it were alive.
26:35What pleases me even more is that the Duke of Norton sends generous gifts of apology every day, greatly swelling
26:40my cofferds.
26:41Today's gift was a massive pink pearl.
26:44Clearly, the Duke of Norton still cannot bring himself to part with Gareth.
26:48In that case, I do not mind lending him a hand.
26:52I instructed the butler to inform the Duke of Norton, who was waiting outside, to bring Gareth and Ella up
26:58from the dungeon.
26:59Though only seven days had passed, they were already unrecognizable, reeking of a foul stench.
27:04The wounds on Ella's face, having gone untetted, had become inflamed and supriating, oozing a dark brown fluid.
27:11I covered my mouth and nose with a handkerchief in disgust.
27:14This gesture deeply provoked Ella, and she glared at me with a look of venom.
27:18As for Gareth, the moment he saw William, he was like a dog spotting a bone, crawling towards him on
27:24all fords.
27:24Father, I really do know I was wrong. Please, let me out.
27:31Gareth shot me what he thought was a subtle glare, then began to pour his heart out to William.
27:35Father, you have no idea what I went through in the dungeon.
27:38They locked me in a filthy water cell, wouldn't let me sleep, and gave me no food.
27:42To survive, I had no choice but to catch the insects in the water and eat them.
27:46He clutched his stomach, his face contorted with pain.
27:48That burning sensation in my stomach, I never want to experience it again.
27:51I smiled as I looked at him. I specifically ordered someone to throw those insects in there.
27:55Otherwise, where do you think all that food came from for you to enjoy?
27:58Gareth's face camed, and he could no longer hold back, retudging.
28:02He glared at me with hatred.
28:03You devil! You're not fit to be the Empire's princess!
28:06Now that my father has arrived, I advise you to hurry up!
28:09I looked at him as though he were a fool.
28:11Even at this point, he still hadn't grasped his predicament.
28:13I thought to myself, it seems God does not favour him.
28:16William slapped him across the face in a fit of rage.
28:22You fool! Haven't you caused the family enough trouble already?
28:26Kneel before her, Hidness the princess, this very instant, and apologize.
28:30Gareth looked up rudely at William, his expression a mixture of anguish and shock.
28:33Father, why should I apologize to her?
28:35She is the very source of my torment.
28:37Shouldn't you be standing up for me?
28:39So what if she's a princess?
28:40You're a duke of a kingdom!
28:42Surely a princess wouldn't dare lay a finger on you.
28:44William looked at his utterly foolish son with despair.
28:47He began to regret how he'd been so blind to make him his heir.
28:51William took a deep breath, suppressing his rage and kicked Gareth hard in the back of the knee.
28:56Your Highness, I know that my worthless son can never make a rends for the harm he has caused you.
29:01No matter what he does, please do with him as you see fit.
29:04Witnessing his father's humiliation, Gareth finally realized he was about to be cast aside.
29:15Dad, are you really abandoning me?
29:22Father, we, the Norton family, are the foremost noble house in the Empire, ruling over several cities.
29:29I am the heir you have raised since childhood.
29:31Are you really going to abandon me just for the sake of a princess?
29:35William shot him a look of utter contempt.
29:37You fool! How many times have I told you that the princess is not someone we can afford to offend?
29:43You simply wouldn't listen. You forced my hand into abandoning you.
29:48William took a deep breath, his gaze towards Gareth growing increasingly icy.
29:52An heir is nothing compared to the future of the family.
29:57Finally realizing the gravity of the situation, Gareth's expression shifted from resentment to terror.
30:02He knelt before me, bowing his head repeatedly.
30:06Your Highness, I apologize for my stupidity and recklessness.
30:10Please, in your magnuity, forgive me this once.
30:12I sat in my chair, sipping my coffee with Grace.
30:15Duke William, there's no need to be so harsh on Gareth.
30:18After all, it wasn't he who offended me, but his little lover.
30:21William immediately put off a smile and said to me ingracingly,
30:24Your Highness is quite right, but Gareth's behavior has been utterly unacceptable. He deserves to be punished.
30:29Ella, standing nearby, turned pale as she realized she was about to be sacrificed.
30:32Her legs gave way and she fell to her knees.
30:34No, His Grace the Duke, you cannot do this! My father died for you!
30:41Her face itched unbearably. The slightest touch caused foul-smelling pus to ooze out.
30:46And at that moment, her tear-streaked face looked utterly hideous.
30:49William found even the sight of her repulsive and paid no heed to her place.
30:52Ella knelt before me and began to apologize frantically.
30:56Your Highness, I'm so sorry. I'm just a lowly commoner.
31:01Please forgive me this once. I promise I'll never do it again.
31:07Your Highness, it was my own blindness and foolishness that led me to commit such an unforgivable act against you.
31:15I beg you to show mercy and spare me. I shall remain loyal to you forever.
31:20I finished my coffee at a leisurely pace before finally turning my gaze upon them.
31:25My dismissive attitude made Gareth's expression grow even more grim.
31:29Why are you making such a fuss? I'm not a murderer.
31:33I wouldn't take your lives over such a trifling matter.
31:36Upon hearing there might still be a chance, William immediately beamed with joy.
31:40Your Highness, are you prepared to forgive these two fools?
31:44I nodded with a smile.
31:47After all, the Norton family has made no small contribution to the Empire.
31:51I ought to show you some patience.
31:54Gareth and Ella looked absolutely delighted and began to thank me profusely.
31:57But would I really be that kind-hearted?
31:59My smile grew even brighter as I pointed at Gareth and Ella and said,
32:04Not only shall I forgive your rudeness,
32:08but I shall also grant you a royal marriage so that you may finally be united as lovers.
32:15Duke of Norton, you may not be aware of this, but your precious son has been secretly seeing your adopted
32:20daughter.
32:21I smiled at William, my tone growing ever gentler.
32:24Congratulations on soon having a beautiful and intelligent daughter-in-law.
32:28I shall give you three days to arrange the wedding.
32:31My words elicited a mixed reaction from the crowd.
32:33Some were overjoyed, whilst others looked utterly horrified.
32:37Ella never imagined that even in her current state,
32:39she would still be able to marry into the Norton family it had been her lifelong dream.
32:43The mere thought of joining the nobility and the leap in social status brought an involuntary smile to her lips.
32:48Yet on her disfigured face, any expression looked grotesque and hideous.
32:53Even Gareth, who had always felt pity for Ella, did not wish to look upon her face.
32:58William's expression was even more samber.
33:00He had always looked down on Ella's background.
33:03Such a woman might be acceptable as a mistress,
33:05but if she were to become the mistress of the Norton Haumel it would be a disaster.
33:09I watched their expressions with great interest.
33:12Duke of Norton, will you make the arrangements at once?
33:15I wish to see their wedding immediately.
33:20Ella was dressed in a pristine white wedding gown,
33:23yet even a thick layer of makeup could not obscure the hideous scars on her face.
33:27She walked up to Gareth, facing the crowd's stares.
33:30Some mocking, some contemptual.
33:32I stood amongst the crowd, waving my hand in their direction to offer my blessings.
33:36What a perfectly matched couple.
33:38He's a fool and she's a vixen.
33:40They're a perfect match.
33:41The very survival of the Norton family depends on these two.
33:46Gareth noticed me.
33:48Today I wore no veil, boldly revealing my features,
33:52which drew gasps of astonishment from the crowd.
33:56A flash of regret crossed his eyes, and he only snapped back to reality when the priest called his name.
34:01Mr. Gareth, do you promise to take Mrs. Your Wife for better or for worse?
34:06He hesitated to answer.
34:08Ella's previously beaming face froze, and she was forced to speak for him.
34:12He does!
34:13The priest, seeing the groom's face contorted with disgust and resents,
34:17wisely kept his mouth shut and did not proceed with the rest of the vows.
34:20As I watched them exchange rings, a sense of satisfaction, as if a prank had succeeded, welled up within me.
34:24I thought this wedding would become the greatest joke in the history of the Empire,
34:27and from this moment on, the Norton family would begin to decline.
34:33Sure enough, the wedding became a laughing stock throughout Althi Empire.
34:39The Duke of Norton, having lost all face, slunked back to his estate in disgrace.
34:46And my revenge had only just begun.
34:49With the Duke of Norton removed from the seat of power, the family's holdings were gradually carved up.
34:55Economic turmoil plunged the Norton family into a financial crisis.
34:58They began to increase taxes, which led to riots within their lands.
35:04Upon learning of this, Edmund issued a direct order to reclaim a third of the Norton family's lands.
35:10Gareth placed the blame entirely on Ella.
35:13Believing she had brought misfortune upon the family, he banished her from the Ducal residence.
35:19Yet they could not divorce.
35:21Ella remained Gareth's wife and name only.
35:24At first, Ella was still deeply hurt by Gareth's coldness.
35:28As time passed and Gareth's infidelities became more frequent,
35:32she grew increasingly preoccupied with her ruined appearance.
35:35She became almost obsessed with restoring her beauty,
35:38taking all manners of illicit potions,
35:41all in the hope that Gareth would fall in love with her again.
35:45Gareth was no better off than Ella.
35:48He had been utterly disowned by his father,
35:52stripped of his right of succession,
35:54and subjected to the cold stares and mockery of his kin.
35:58The two began an endless cycle of arguments,
36:01until one drunken night, Gareth spoke the truth.
36:05Ella, I regret it.
36:07I regret missing out on Margaret for a shallow, ignorant woman like you.
36:12You are my downfall!
36:24And that day happened to be the day I succeeded to the throne.
36:28I sat upon the throne and slowly bowed my head as my father personally placed the crown upon my head.
36:34That day was also the day the Norton family was permanently stripped of their noble status.
36:40Truly, it was a double celebration.
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