Old Mr. Fitzroy was a very thin and gaunt old man, around fifty years old, with graying hair and beard. He looked somewhat stern and unapproachable. However, he greatly valued Mrs. Fitzroy, his daughter-in-law, and consequently also liked his innocent and sweet granddaughter, Wensley. Hearing that her friend was present, a faint smile appeared on his face, and he suddenly asked, "Miranda? Is she the daughter of Lord Croyso?"Upon hearing her father's name, Miranda quickly stood up and said, "Yes, he is my father.""Oh my, so you're his daughter, and you got injured in my residence. This is terrible! You must speak well of me in front of your father when you return. Donât let that overprotective man chase me around half the capital with his sword." Old Mr. Fitzroy chuckled, as if remembering something amusing. "These old bones of mine canât withstand his fuss!" This was because Miranda had accidentally twisted her ankle on the way here."Huh?" Miranda was taken aback, not quite underst
Wensley's father, Marcus, was a scholar in charge of compiling books at the royal palace. He often felt frustrated and unappreciated, leading him to seek solace in drinking and revelry. A few days ago, he encountered a middle-aged man who claimed to be the lord of a southern city, named Steven. The two quickly became acquainted over drinks, and before long, they were spending every day carousing together.A few days ago, in a drunken haze, they somehow decided to arrange a marriage between their children, promising Wensley to Steven's son. They even left a written agreement as proof.Yesterday, Steven showed up at their door with the letter, saying he was there to discuss the marriage.Lady Fitzroy was furious upon hearing this. Not only had Marcus arranged their daughter's marriage without consulting her, but Steven himself seemed highly suspicious. He was a complete stranger, with an unclear background. How could a city lord spend his days drinking with Marcus instead of attending to
"Lady Fitzroy, I think Aunt Langley is rightâthis whole thing seems very suspicious," Miranda pondered aloud. "Even if Mr. Marcus was careless in handling things, that Steven is questionable too. Putting aside whether his identity is real or not, if he truly wanted to curry favor with Lord Fitzroy, a senior scholar in the Privy Council, he should have made a formal proposal. Acting like this wonât win the Fitzroy family over; itâs more likely to offend them. Isnât this bringing shame to the Fitzroy name rather than trying to build connections?"Lady Fitzroy angrily agreed, "Exactly! Who does business like this? I think heâs nothing but a swindler!"âIf heâs a swindler, itâs likely for money. Heâd target wealthy familiesâwhy risk deceiving a senior member of the Privy Council?â Miranda asked thoughtfully.Hearing this, Lady Fitzroy began to calm down, her dark brows furrowing deeply.She was usually a sharp and decisive person, but this situation involved her own daughter, and her husba
"But can Miranda, at such a young age, really be so perceptive about court affairs? Could it be that she's overthinking things?" Lady Fitzroy hesitated. This matter involved both Marcusâs foolishness and their daughterâs marriage, and she didnât want to alarm her in-laws, fearing it would worry them. Still, after thinking it through, she realized the truth would come out eventually. Since Miranda was so certain, she decided to trust her.With that, Lady Fitzroy took Lady Langley, Wensley, and Miranda to meet with the elder Lord Fitzroy.Lord Fitzroy was in his study when he heard that these younger people had come to see him again. Surprised, he made his way to the sitting room, where the group had gathered. Noticing the anxious expressions on their faces, he waved for the servants to leave before asking, "Whatâs going on?"Lady Fitzroy then recounted the entire incident and Mirandaâs suspicions.Outside, the scent of damp earth from the recent rain drift
Hearing these words, everyone fell silent. Yes, that person only needed to stir things up for two months. If they could create turmoil in the capital during that time and tarnish old Mr. Fitzroy's reputation, it would put him at a disadvantage in the struggle for the premiership. Their goal would be achieved. Lady Fitzroy felt a sudden pang in her heart. If they wanted to avoid impacting her father-in-lawâs reputation and future, then Wensleyâs marriage... It was all because of that useless, muddled father of hers, who had caused such confusion and still didnât realize his mistakes!At this point, the situation was no longer just about Marcus and Lady Fitzroy; it involved the entire Fitzroy family.Consequently, old Mr. Fitzroy summoned his disciples to discuss the matter together.Lady Langley and Miranda, being outsiders, felt it inappropriate to eavesdrop, so they made excuses to take their leave from the Fitzroy residence.As they back to the Croyso estate, Lady Langley contemplat
Lady Fitzroy was startled and hurriedly asked, "What do you mean by that?"If marrying Wensley offered no advantage, she would have a reason to convince everyone to call off the engagement."Before, there was something I couldn't figure outâwhy did the other side go to such great lengths to handpick Steven? After much thought, I realized there was more to it," Miranda, pulling Wensley back beside her, sat in front of Lady Langley and analyzed, "If we go by Wensleyâs fatherâs logic, marrying Wensley into that family would indeed win a reputation for keeping oneâs word, which might even aid Lord Fitzroy in his promotion to Prime Minister. But think about it, Madamâif this whole thing was aimed at Lord Fitzroy, planned so meticulously, how could they leave such a glaring loophole that would end up benefiting him, turning a disadvantage into an advantage?"Lady Fitzroy and Lady Langley exchanged a glance; this was something neither of them had considered.The Fitzroy family had only thoug
Meeting Lady Fitzroyâs expectant gaze, Miranda understood that she was not only worried about the Fitzroy family but also about Wensley. Clearly, she was feeling lost and uncertain. So Miranda said, âNo need to fret, Madam. This situation isnât entirely without a way out. Though the plan is clever, the key still lies in Stevenâs identity. Whether itâs the real Steven or this imposter, if someone can recognize him, the whole scheme will fall apart on its own.âAt first, Lady Fitzroyâs eyes lit up as Miranda spoke, but after hearing the full explanation, she felt a wave of disappointment.Everyone knew the crux of the matter was Stevenâs identity. But the real Steven was far away in the city of Jasendale, and it would take at least two months to get there and back. By then, the Fitzroy family would have been the subject of endless gossip in the capital. By the time the information arrived, everything would be settled.Miranda nodded and analyzed further, âI believe the best way to resolv
On this day, a man was causing a scene in front of the Fitzroy estate, angrily confronting the household servants."A man is nothing without his word! Fitzroy! You promised to arrange a marriage with my son, yet now you go back on your word? You won't even let me through the door! You claim to be an honorable family, but I say you're nothing but a bunch of hypocrites! Does having power give you the right to look down on others and trample on those beneath you?"...At first, only a few onlookers watched from a distance, but soon a larger crowd gathered. Among them were troublemakers, stirring discontent and spreading rumors about the Fitzroy family.It was a rest day, and hearing the commotion, Lord Fitzroy emerged with his son Marcus.As the gates opened, Lord Fitzroy saw a sea of angry faces, with Stevenâof dubious backgroundâat the forefront, eyes ablaze with fury. Despite his age, Lord Fitzroyâs sharp gaze commanded authority, gradually quieting the mob. Once silence fell, he gave
Seeing the man's attire, the burly warrior beside him immediately realized that this must be one of their brothers who had gone to the palace to assassinate someoneânow back and enraged, looking for a fight. But upon hearing the words "His Highness is dead," his heart was struck with unspeakable shock, his mind going blank for a moment.Stepping forward, he shielded Miranda and raised his sword to block the masked manâs saber.âCalm down! The commander said this woman might still be useful. Donât go against his word!âBut before his words had even finished, the situation changed in a flash.The masked man abruptly twisted his blade, slashing toward the burly warriorâs neck with lightning speed. The angle was vicious and suddenânearly impossible to guard against.The burly man had assumed this was merely a furious comrade; it never occurred to him that he would suddenly turn his blade on him. Let alone defend himselfâhe was still in stunned disbelief even as the blade sliced across his
The man in black twisted Miranda's arm with one hand and held a dagger across her with the other. He jerked his chin toward Molly, signaling her to open the door. His grip on the dagger only tightened.Molly glanced worriedly at her miss before stepping forward to open the door.Standing outside was the regal and elegant Queen Dowager, flanked by Margaret and othersâSelena stood nearby.The moment the door opened and the Queen Dowager saw Miranda being held hostage, her expression changed drastically. She shouted, âWho are you? How dare you seize a noble lady? Release her at once!ââOh, how dearly the Queen Dowager treasures this Miss Croyso,â the man in black sneered. âGood. If Your Grace doesnât want anything to happen to her, then cooperate and help us get out of the palace. With your seal, I donât suppose itâll be difficult? Once weâre somewhere safe, weâll let her go. How about that?ââYour Grace, you mustnât!â Margaret cried urgently. âThese assassins are after His Majestyâs lif
Hearing those words, Miranda finally let out a breath of relief.The fact that the King was willing to assign her tasks meant he had accepted her explanation.Of course, the King would not so easily trust her loyalty; she would still need to prove herself through her future actions. But at least, for someone like herâcornered by the Queen Mother with no way outâthere was now a glimmer of hope ahead.As long as the King truly intended to oppose the Queen Mother, and as long as she could assist him in bringing her down, Miranda would be able to regain her freedom and no longer live under the Queen Mother's control."I understand. I will strictly follow Your Majesty's instructions," Miranda replied. "I used an excuse to leave earlier, and I cannot be away for too long. If there are no further orders, I shall take my leave."The King watched Mirandaâs retreating figure in silence.Because of that familiar face, he couldnât help but pay her a little more attention, though he did not show i
"Miranda?"The King, who had just risen to his feet, slowly sat back down, frowning slightly. After a moment, he said, "Let her come forward."Guided by Giles, Miranda approached gracefully and knelt in salute. "Greetings, Your Majesty."The King studied her closely, trying to guess her intentions. "You asked to see me. What is it you wish to say?""I..." Miranda hesitated, carefully choosing her words."Your Majesty's teachings remain engraved in my heart. Yet, in this world, eight or nine out of ten things do not go as one wishes," Miranda answered calmly, her head bowed. Slowly, she lifted her gaze and caught sight of a sheet of paper on the table. Daringly, she picked it up with a gentle motion. The King silently watched her actions."For a piece of paper," she said softly, "its greatest wish would be to remain pure and untouched â neither stained by ink nor creased by water. Yet once a hand reaches out and soaks it in ink or water, the paper has no strength to resist."She did no
That day, the King came to pay his respects at the Queen Dowagerâs palace. The Queen Dowager ordered tea to be served.A young lady stepped forward, dressed in a gown of pale blue silkâthe soft, mist-like color seemed steeped in delicate light, graceful and ethereal. Her hair ornaments matched in hue, adorned with teardrop-shaped tassels that swayed gently with her movements, catching the light like liquid glass. Her skin was fair as porcelain, her features fresh and luminous, like a lotus emerging from clear waters.Her simple attire, serene beauty, and quiet elegance gave the impression of a cool spring flowing through a sweltering dayâsoothing and refreshing.When the King saw that the one serving tea was Miranda, he paused. His gaze lingered briefly on her attire, on her calm expression, on the faint scent of perfume that wafted near. His eyes flickered with a shadowed gleam as he said with a faint smile, âI heard Miss Miranda fell ill shortly after entering the palace, and has be
Miranda was filled with doubts.Zachary had taken a liking to her and, without even asking her opinion, went straight to the Queen to request a royal marriage decree. The Queen Dowager fancied her and instantly ordered her into the palace as a companion. They were all powerful figuresâso why was it that when Reginald liked her, he remained so silent? So composed? Why hadnât she sensed even the slightest hint of his feelings?Even after hearing about her engagement to Sheffield, he simply vanished from her world. Aside from that one momentâwhen he stumbled into her chambers feverish and disorientedâhe never once made a move. He didnât even try to interfere with the betrothal between the Croyso family and Sheffield.Werenât people like them always forceful and self-indulgent in love and power alike? And Reginald, with his flamboyant and unrestrained natureâwhy had he acted so differently?Her head throbbed. With a shake, she tried to banish the thoughts. There was a clear disparity in s
In that faintly charged, ambiguous atmosphere, Reginaldâs ears suddenly twitched. He had caught the faint sound of footsteps approaching. His expression changed instantly. He gave Miranda a small nod, pulled up his hood, and with a light, soundless leap, landed on the windowsill. With one hand gripping the ledge, he gave a pullâand in the next breath, his figure vanished from sight.Miranda understood at once and quietly closed the window.***It was deep into the night. No stars, no moonâonly utter darkness.Miranda lay upon soft pillows, her eyes shut tightly. Beads of sweat gathered on her pale, smooth forehead, soaking into her hairline. Her head moved slightly from side to side, as if trying to shake something off. Her sleep was uneasy.She dreamt of many things from the past.Foolishness from a previous life. The days in the Croyso household, sharing what felt like a mother-daughter bond with her stepmother. Hansâs sweet lies after she married with himâand her naÃŊve, wholehearte
âAlthough His Majesty shows great respect and deference to the Queen Dowager, and her position in the palace seems untouchable,â Miranda said firmly, âif their relationship were truly as unshakable as it appears, then why would she need to use me as a pawn? That alone tells meâthey donât fully trust each other. Iâm convinced thereâs a rift between them.âHer eyes gleamed with quiet intelligence.âBesides, the Queen Dowager is from House Blackwell. So is the Queen. If Prince Zachary ascends the throne, the maternal familyâs power will be overwhelming. Lord Reginald, tell meâcould the King possibly feel at ease with that? Donât you think he might also want to bring down the Queen Dowager and the Blackwell family?âIf the answer to all of those questions was yesâthen that was her opportunity.Especially when she recalled that moment at the Croyso estateâhow the King, upon first seeing her, had lost his composure and shattered his teacup. Yet in the Queen Dowagerâs hall, he had greeted he
âMiranda, what do you intend to do?â he asked cautiously, probing her thoughts.Miranda didnât answer directly. Instead, she returned the question, âWhat do you think I should do, Lord Reginald?ââJust as you said, the Queen Dowager is ruthless and cunning. She doesnât care if she destroys you in the process. So, Miranda, donât confront her head-on. Evade her, pretend even, let her think sheâs wonâjust donât suffer for nothing!â That was the real reason Reginald had come todayâto warn her. Earlier, heâd gone to the palace to attend council with the King and was granted leave to walk in the royal gardens afterwards. That gave him the opportunity to send Miranda a message, even now, to meet her here in person.Though heâd already passed along a warning through a young eunuch, he had still worried something might go wrong. Thatâs why he had been hiding near the gazebo all along, ready to intervene if needed.He had seen everything with his own eyes.In the end, it was Selena who suffered