Chapter 126

It would be better to delay my daughter’s pardon.

“Her Majesty the Empress. The embassy delegation from Chinguk will arrive at Iduino Port tomorrow.”

Upon hearing this report, the thought that immediately came to Empress Lianhua’s mind was to delay her daughter’s pardon.

The embassy delegation soon to arrive in the empire included her cousin’s brother-in-law, who also serves as the Grand Master of the Ministry of Rites, as the principal envoy. The vice-envoy was the preceptor of the Crown Prince. Both were high-ranking officials closely tied to the Chinguk Imperial Court.

Including the bodyguards, the delegation consisted of over 300 people.

This was the largest delegation since the Empress herself had come to this country as a bride. Not only was the number of people significant, but they had also brought luxurious tributes to present to the empire.

Chinguk wasn’t merely trying to show off its national strength.

“Of course, they must be here to attend to the Imperial Majesty’s personal edict.”

“That is what we believe.”

“Hmm.”

The delegation was bringing the personal edict of Emperor of Chinguk – her own father. An arduous personal letter written by the aging ruler who had been on the throne for a long time.

There was no way to turn it back. Even in the highly unfavorable scenario that her father passed away immediately, it couldn’t be reversed. Doing so would undermine the authority of the Chinguk Imperial Court.

‘Yet, I can’t advise His Majesty to reject that petition either.’

Doing so would be tantamount to the empire disrespecting Chinguk. The empress did not wish for any ill feelings between the two countries to arise because of this.

So then, what should she do?

What should she do these days? As the results of her recent contemplations had not been favorable, her confidence had somewhat waned. Still, she couldn’t just sit idle. Since it was the Empress herself who invited the Chinguk delegation.

It was just that the political situation was drastically different now than when she had made the invitation.

The empress closed her eyes thoughtfully feeling a mix of sentiments while speaking.

“His Majesty?”

“In the morning, he presided over a state council meeting.”

“And alcohol?”

“According to a quiet inquiry to the Chief Steward, he no longer consumes alcohol during the day. But, toward the end of today’s meeting, we were told that he unexpectedly shed tears in front of the ministers and hastily concluded the session.”

“……”

The unexpected moderation in alcohol and a husband taking care of state affairs was not a comforting development.

Showing tears in front of his ministers was not a heartening sign.

She wanted to console him herself, but it wasn’t possible. Their relationship had grown awkward since the time she blackmailed him along with their two daughters. After such coercion, it had become impossible to approach the Emperor naturally.

“I truly did a terrible thing.”

The Empress quietly worried about her husband.

For the sake of his fragile state, the pardon for Anais could not be delayed. Though delaying it for a few months might be possible, it would only sadden the Emperor again. He was already so troubled when Anais was sent to the monastery last year.

In the end, Anais’s pardon was already a foregone conclusion.

The only task left for the Empress was one.

“Send someone to Anais immediately.”

“Shall we inform her that her pardon is imminent?”

“Yes. And exactly convey what I’m about to say.”

The Empress, with a troubled expression, began to state the message intended for her daughter.

…After leaving the monastery, do not even dream of seeking vengeance. Keep your head down, make no noise, and live quietly. If you cause another incident, not only will I be unable to protect you but it could also endanger my own safety.

Consider this not as a pardon but merely a transfer from exile in the monastery to the palace.

This was the nature of the cautionary advice.

“Convey this message immediately.”

Of course, there were no intentions of stopping at mere words.

Once Anais was released, plans were to confine her deep within the palace. No political activities would be permitted. The previous actions of occupying a section of the palace and forming factions would be strictly curtailed.

It wasn’t solely a measure for the stability of the imperial household.

Perhaps, it could even be a matter of survival for her daughter. If that child caused another disturbance, it could endanger her very life.

*

Rustle, click-click.

The Third Imperial Princess Anais of the empire was devoted to lacework as she always did.

Creating a pattern of floral lace using twelve-thread techniques.

Her skill, having moved from eight-thread to twelve-thread work only two weeks ago, was surprisingly proficient.

“You’re talented even at the very first pattern you’re working on, Anais.”

The supervising nun was already deeply moved, frequently praising Anais’ talent. Indeed, the level of skill was impressive. Not only was her speed fast, but there were also no mistakes. Regardless of whether it was linen or silk thread, she handled the materials with ease.

“There’s nothing more I can teach you… It’s simply incredible.”

The nun’s hand trembled as she watched Anais’ God-given talent.

Anais gave her a forced smile and continued weaving the lace diligently.

To create lace that would eventually be part of the undergarments of some unknown noble lady.

Her focus was such that it made time pass more quickly; it had no other meaning. Compliments did not spark any excitement within her.

What else could she do? This was her daily routine.

She had no idea how many more years this repetitive routine would continue. Rustle, rustle.

‘What would happen if a year passed like this?’

Perhaps she could reach the point where she could both unwind the thread with one hand and simultaneously create lace with the other? Although it was physically impossible, she felt as if she could accomplish it if she had the determination.

‘Then what?’

A hopeless smile crept across Anais’ face.

At that moment, a visitor had arrived for her.

“Your Highness, Princess Anais!”

A knight who was imprisoned alongside Anais rushed frantically into the workshop.

“What is it?”

“There’s someone from the state here. Please meet them…!”

“Let me finish this first. This is a difficult pattern.”

“Your Highness?”

“It’ll be quick, just wait…”

No, wait.

Anais’ hands stopped abruptly as she had been wildly intertwining threads.

A visitor from the state?

This was her first time receiving a visitor since being confined to the monastery. The concept of “visitor” itself was unfamiliar to her. Having her visiting privileges and even communication restricted, she mainly relied on news from her bodyguards.

‘And this visitor is from the state?’

Anais swallowed hard and stood up.

Right outside the workshop.

A very familiar East Asian maidservant was waiting. A servant from Chinguk who had long served Anais’ mother.

Why had she come?

Anais’ heart began racing wildly.

“Your Highness, I pay my respects.”

Respect? Anais soon learned the details.

News that her maternal grandfather, whom she had never even met, had exerted influence for her pardon. News that she would be out of the monastery within three days at the latest. And a message to maintain humility while awaiting her pardon.

Anais simply listened silently.

“Am I really being pardoned?”

“Yes, you are.”

It was hard to believe.

Reflecting, there were suspicious signs about two or three weeks ago.

The knight who had been rudely acting suddenly became polite. Though she inquired several times, the knight skillfully evaded answers. Now it all became clear; the knight had been acting that way because her pardon was imminent.

“Your Highness, Her Majesty the Empress has an especially emphasized message.”

The nun’s serious voice went unheard.

“Am I really being pardoned? Is it true?”

“Formally, yes… However, there’s something important to keep in mind. In reality, this is not a pardon but merely a transfer of exile location. Until you receive further orders, technically, you are not truly pardoned.”

“What does that mean?”

“As I relayed Her Majesty’s words… If you wish to preserve your life, it’s best not to make a sound. Do not attempt anything; simply be thankful to be alive.”

“…”

“You are still a sinner.”

Still a sinner even after the pardon?

Anais almost surged forward in frustration but restrained herself.

Thanks to the discipline enforced during her time at the monastery.

Anais nodded slightly.

“Yes. I’ll keep it in mind. Please convey that.”

“Your Highness…?”

“I’ll behave quietly after leaving as well. Like a proper sinner.”

“Yes… I understand. And Your Highness, Alan Medoff, who helped with your rescue, was recently bestowed with the title of Lord of Madway. Being wise, you’ll understand what this means. Please don’t be angered by this news.”

“That’s an imperial title. It likely means an engagement with one of my sisters. …It’s fine.”

Contrary to her reassurances, it was anything but fine.

The prospect of dealing with someone already difficult would now involve her fiancé. Seeking revenge would only become tougher.

Still, she needed to hide her emotions here and now. Declaring “I will surely kill him.” would only heighten her mother’s caution.

Hold on. Just for now.

With great difficulty, Anais suppressed her rising indignation and even forced herself to smile.

“Your Highness…?”

It was certainly not genuine surrender.

Alan Medoff.

Siena Carlisle.

How could she forget her hatred toward those detestable men? It was simply that Anais knew she lacked the power to strike against their cunning. With the help of her mother, perhaps, but alone, she was powerless against them.

With a forced smile still on her face, she spoke to the maid.

“Thank you for the good news. Please tell my mother that I will act cautiously.”

“…Yes, Your Highness.”

“Is that all?”

“Yes.”

Anais bid farewell to the handmaiden who brought her the good news in a pleasant manner. This would surely ease the Empress’s, her mother’s, concerns. At the very least, it was better than proclaiming “I’ll kill those two as soon as I leave here.”

“Anyway, mom’s no help.”

Still, there were other ways.

Anais returned to the workshop.

And spoke to the nun who especially cherished her talents.

“Sister, I’m about to receive my pardon.”

“Oh my…!”

“But… I must confess, I’m not entirely happy. I’m worried about a friend who also became a sinner because of me. She was my senior by a year in the academy. Sister, could you possibly write a letter for her through a merchant who brings supplies?”

“That shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Please, Sister. The pardon is imminent, so there shouldn’t be an issue.”

The nun, who had spent her life solely praying and laboring, agreed to her request.

A letter delivered to a friend under the nun’s name.

Though humble, it would be the beginning of her revenge.

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