In Our 3rd Year, He Paraded His Lover — My Revenge Left Him Ruined#shortstory #webnovel #audiobook
77Feet(Short Story)
[{'start': '0.000', 'end': '3.094', 'text': 'The air in the Marquisate that day was thick with unspoken words'}, {'start': '3.094', 'end': '4.951', 'text': 'heavier than the late autumn humidity'}, {'start': '4.951', 'end': '5.712', 'text': 'It pressed down'}, {'start': '5.712', 'end': '10.045', 'text': 'a tangible weight settling in my chest the moment I saw him walking through the main gate'}, {'start': '10.045', 'end': '10.569', 'text': 'not alone'}, {'start': '10.569', 'end': '11.425', 'text': 'Beside Xu Yanzhou'}, {'start': '11.425', 'end': '11.997', 'text': 'my husband'}, {'start': '11.997', 'end': '13.235', 'text': 'the current Marquis heir'}, {'start': '13.235', 'end': '16.424', 'text': 'walked a woman draped in simplicity that screamed expensive taste'}, {'start': '16.424', 'end': '17.662', 'text': 'her face pale and lovely'}, {'start': '17.662', 'end': '20.899', 'text': 'eyes shimmering with unshed tears like morning dew on a lotus petal'}, {'start': '20.899', 'end': '21.730', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '21.730', 'end': '22.433', 'text': 'His famed'}, {'start': '22.433', 'end': '23.456', 'text': 'white moonlight'}, {'start': '23.520', 'end': '26.204', 'text': 'the ghost of a past he apparently couldn'}, {'start': '26.204', 'end': '26.907', 'text': 't exorcise'}, {'start': '26.907', 'end': '27.611', 'text': 'Her family'}, {'start': '27.611', 'end': '29.144', 'text': 's fortunes had crumbled'}, {'start': '29.144', 'end': '30.359', 'text': 'the whispers said'}, {'start': '30.359', 'end': '31.445', 'text': 'And here she was'}, {'start': '31.445', 'end': '32.979', 'text': 'clinging to Xu Yanzhou'}, {'start': '32.979', 'end': '35.344', 'text': 's arm like a vine seeking sustenance'}, {'start': '35.344', 'end': '38.284', 'text': 'her gaze sweeping over the opulent courtyard'}, {'start': '38.284', 'end': '40.329', 'text': 'a mixture of awe and a strange'}, {'start': '40.329', 'end': '41.799', 'text': 'unsettling familiarity'}, {'start': '41.799', 'end': '45.608', 'text': 'As if she were reclaiming something that was rightfully hers'}, {'start': '45.608', 'end': '47.169', 'text': 'He brought her before me'}, {'start': '47.169', 'end': '49.291', 'text': 'his expression carefully neutral'}, {'start': '49.291', 'end': '51.539', 'text': 'yet a flicker of something – guilt'}, {'start': '51.539', 'end': '52.101', 'text': 'Defiance'}, {'start': '52.101', 'end': '55.035', 'text': '– crossed his eyes before being swiftly masked'}, {'start': '55.097', 'end': '55.285', 'text': 'Yu'}, {'start': '55.285', 'end': '55.472', 'text': 'er'}, {'start': '55.534', 'end': '56.159', 'text': 'he began'}, {'start': '56.159', 'end': '58.094', 'text': 'his voice smoother than usual'}, {'start': '58.219', 'end': '58.656', 'text': 'Yanran'}, {'start': '58.656', 'end': '60.716', 'text': 's family has met with misfortune'}, {'start': '60.716', 'end': '62.339', 'text': 'She has nowhere else to go'}, {'start': '62.339', 'end': '64.881', 'text': 'I intend to… make a place for her here'}, {'start': '65.011', 'end': '67.096', 'text': 'The implication hung in the air'}, {'start': '67.096', 'end': '68.334', 'text': 'sharp and pointed'}, {'start': '68.334', 'end': '68.529', 'text': 'A'}, {'start': '68.529', 'end': '68.920', 'text': 'place'}, {'start': '68.985', 'end': '70.028', 'text': 'Not as a guest'}, {'start': '70.028', 'end': '73.221', 'text': 'He wanted to install his past love under my roof'}, {'start': '73.221', 'end': '75.240', 'text': 'likely as a favored concubine'}, {'start': '75.240', 'end': '77.130', 'text': 'a constant reminder of what'}, {'start': '77.130', 'end': '77.651', 'text': 'or who'}, {'start': '77.651', 'end': '78.824', 'text': 'he truly desired'}, {'start': '78.824', 'end': '81.495', 'text': 'The servants around us held their breath'}, {'start': '81.495', 'end': '83.515', 'text': 'their eyes darting between us'}, {'start': '83.515', 'end': '85.339', 'text': 'sensing the impending storm'}, {'start': '85.339', 'end': '87.076', 'text': 'I let the silence stretch'}, {'start': '87.076', 'end': '90.281', 'text': 'observing the delicate tremble of Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '90.281', 'end': '90.682', 'text': 's lip'}, {'start': '90.682', 'end': '95.624', 'text': 'the possessive way her fingers tightened almost imperceptibly on Yanzhou'}, {'start': '95.624', 'end': '96.225', 'text': 's sleeve'}, {'start': '96.225', 'end': '98.362', 'text': 'I saw the challenge in her eyes'}, {'start': '98.362', 'end': '101.167', 'text': 'veiled thinly by pretended vulnerability'}, {'start': '101.167', 'end': '101.501', 'text': 'Then'}, {'start': '101.501', 'end': '102.169', 'text': 'I smiled'}, {'start': '102.169', 'end': '102.770', 'text': 'A serene'}, {'start': '102.770', 'end': '106.443', 'text': 'gentle curve of my lips that seemed to catch everyone'}, {'start': '106.443', 'end': '107.712', 'text': 'including Yanzhou'}, {'start': '107.712', 'end': '108.379', 'text': 'off guard'}, {'start': '108.440', 'end': '109.649', 'text': 'Husband is too kind'}, {'start': '109.710', 'end': '110.193', 'text': 'I said'}, {'start': '110.193', 'end': '111.100', 'text': 'my voice soft'}, {'start': '111.100', 'end': '111.644', 'text': 'melodic'}, {'start': '111.644', 'end': '114.062', 'text': 'the perfect picture of a gracious wife'}, {'start': '114.123', 'end': '116.057', 'text': 'Miss Cheng has suffered greatly'}, {'start': '116.057', 'end': '119.201', 'text': 'It is only right that the Marquisate offers shelter'}, {'start': '119.201', 'end': '120.713', 'text': 'Since she is dear to you'}, {'start': '120.713', 'end': '121.257', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '121.257', 'end': '123.977', 'text': 'let her be given the title of Noble Consort'}, {'start': '123.977', 'end': '126.939', 'text': 'It reflects your affection and gives her standing'}, {'start': '127.035', 'end': '128.036', 'text': 'Yanzhou stared at me'}, {'start': '128.036', 'end': '129.180', 'text': 'momentarily speechless'}, {'start': '129.180', 'end': '130.563', 'text': 'He had likely expected tears'}, {'start': '130.563', 'end': '131.087', 'text': 'arguments'}, {'start': '131.087', 'end': '132.327', 'text': 'perhaps a bitter refusal'}, {'start': '132.327', 'end': '133.185', 'text': 'My easy agreement'}, {'start': '133.185', 'end': '134.949', 'text': 'my elevation of her intended status'}, {'start': '134.949', 'end': '136.570', 'text': 'threw him completely off balance'}, {'start': '136.570', 'end': '137.190', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '137.190', 'end': '137.905', 'text': 's eyes widened'}, {'start': '137.905', 'end': '139.764', 'text': 'a flash of triumph quickly suppressed'}, {'start': '139.764', 'end': '142.196', 'text': 'replaced by a calculated look of humble gratitude'}, {'start': '142.243', 'end': '143.578', 'text': 'Sister Shen is too generous'}, {'start': '143.626', 'end': '144.294', 'text': 'she murmured'}, {'start': '144.294', 'end': '145.104', 'text': 'bowing her head'}, {'start': '145.104', 'end': '148.298', 'text': 'though the angle allowed her to cast a sidelong glance at Yanzhou'}, {'start': '148.298', 'end': '149.299', 'text': 'seeking his approval'}, {'start': '149.369', 'end': '150.546', 'text': 'It is no trouble'}, {'start': '150.615', 'end': '152.000', 'text': 'I replied smoothly'}, {'start': '152.000', 'end': '156.362', 'text': 'stepping forward and gently disengaging her hand from Yanzhou'}, {'start': '156.362', 'end': '156.777', 'text': 's arm'}, {'start': '156.777', 'end': '159.200', 'text': 'Her skin was cool beneath my touch'}, {'start': '159.269', 'end': '159.616', 'text': 'Come'}, {'start': '159.616', 'end': '160.585', 'text': 'Sister Cheng'}, {'start': '160.585', 'end': '163.424', 'text': 'Let me arrange suitable quarters for you'}, {'start': '163.424', 'end': '165.362', 'text': 'We must ensure your comfort'}, {'start': '165.501', 'end': '166.539', 'text': 'I led her away'}, {'start': '166.539', 'end': '168.755', 'text': 'leaving Yanzhou standing there'}, {'start': '168.755', 'end': '171.939', 'text': 'a frown knitting his brow as he watched us go'}, {'start': '171.939', 'end': '172.543', 'text': 'He couldn'}, {'start': '172.543', 'end': '173.750', 'text': 't fathom my motives'}, {'start': '173.750', 'end': '178.033', 'text': 'and that uncertainty was the first seed of control I planted that day'}, {'start': '178.033', 'end': '178.938', 'text': 'Let him wonder'}, {'start': '178.938', 'end': '180.507', 'text': 'Let her think she had won'}, {'start': '180.507', 'end': '181.955', 'text': 'The game had just begun'}, {'start': '181.955', 'end': '182.378', 'text': 'and I'}, {'start': '182.378', 'end': '182.921', 'text': 'Shen Yu'}, {'start': '182.921', 'end': '184.308', 'text': 'was setting the board'}, {'start': '184.308', 'end': '186.299', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran’s initial gratitude'}, {'start': '186.299', 'end': '187.325', 'text': 'however feigned'}, {'start': '187.325', 'end': '192.152', 'text': 'evaporated quickly once she was settled into a beautifully appointed courtyard'}, {'start': '192.152', 'end': '193.479', 'text': 'second only to my own'}, {'start': '193.479', 'end': '196.004', 'text': 'Perhaps my ready acceptance had made her bolder'}, {'start': '196.004', 'end': '199.264', 'text': 'convinced of her unshakeable place in Xu Yanzhou’s heart and'}, {'start': '199.264', 'end': '200.001', 'text': 'by extension'}, {'start': '200.001', 'end': '201.315', 'text': 'the household hierarchy'}, {'start': '201.315', 'end': '202.209', 'text': 'A few days later'}, {'start': '202.209', 'end': '203.314', 'text': 'she paid me a visit'}, {'start': '203.314', 'end': '204.891', 'text': 'ostensibly to thank me again'}, {'start': '204.891', 'end': '206.785', 'text': 'but her demeanor radiated smugness'}, {'start': '206.785', 'end': '208.836', 'text': 'She wore a new gown of shimmering silk'}, {'start': '208.836', 'end': '210.361', 'text': 'clearly a gift from Yanzhou'}, {'start': '210.361', 'end': '215.777', 'text': 'and her hair was adorned with a pearl hairpin I recognized as one he had admired in a shop months ago'}, {'start': '215.777', 'end': '217.039', 'text': 'but never bought for me'}, {'start': '217.039', 'end': '218.721', 'text': 'We sat in my receiving room'}, {'start': '218.721', 'end': '219.502', 'text': 'sipping tea'}, {'start': '219.502', 'end': '223.525', 'text': 'The silence was punctuated only by the delicate clink of porcelain'}, {'start': '223.585', 'end': '224.306', 'text': 'Sister Shen'}, {'start': '224.366', 'end': '225.567', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran began'}, {'start': '225.567', 'end': '228.390', 'text': 'setting her cup down with deliberate slowness'}, {'start': '228.510', 'end': '230.071', 'text': 'you are truly magnanimous'}, {'start': '230.071', 'end': '232.533', 'text': 'Not every wife would welcome her husband'}, {'start': '232.533', 'end': '234.455', 'text': 's past love with such open arms'}, {'start': '234.515', 'end': '235.716', 'text': 'Her tone was sweet'}, {'start': '235.716', 'end': '236.857', 'text': 'almost saccharine'}, {'start': '236.857', 'end': '239.199', 'text': 'but her eyes held a glint of challenge'}, {'start': '239.199', 'end': '240.327', 'text': 'I smiled faintly'}, {'start': '240.327', 'end': '242.384', 'text': 'tracing the rim of my own cup'}, {'start': '242.451', 'end': '244.375', 'text': 'The Marquis values sentiment'}, {'start': '244.375', 'end': '245.304', 'text': 'Sister Cheng'}, {'start': '245.304', 'end': '249.086', 'text': 'It is my duty as his wife to accommodate his… affections'}, {'start': '249.086', 'end': '249.616', 'text': 'Besides'}, {'start': '249.616', 'end': '253.067', 'text': 'ensuring harmony within the household is paramount'}, {'start': '253.266', 'end': '253.797', 'text': 'Harmony'}, {'start': '253.863', 'end': '254.792', 'text': 'she repeated'}, {'start': '254.792', 'end': '255.389', 'text': 'a small'}, {'start': '255.389', 'end': '258.176', 'text': 'almost mocking smile playing on her lips'}, {'start': '258.242', 'end': '258.706', 'text': 'Indeed'}, {'start': '258.706', 'end': '261.559', 'text': 'Yanzhou worries so much about your feelings'}, {'start': '261.559', 'end': '263.055', 'text': 'He told me he hopes I won'}, {'start': '263.055', 'end': '264.492', 'text': 't cause you any distress'}, {'start': '264.550', 'end': '266.218', 'text': 'She leaned forward slightly'}, {'start': '266.218', 'end': '268.978', 'text': 'her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper'}, {'start': '269.035', 'end': '269.956', 'text': 'But how could I'}, {'start': '269.956', 'end': '270.933', 'text': 'Seeing him happy'}, {'start': '270.933', 'end': '271.681', 'text': 'truly happy'}, {'start': '271.681', 'end': '272.888', 'text': 'is all that matters'}, {'start': '272.888', 'end': '274.039', 'text': 'And he is happy now'}, {'start': '274.154', 'end': '275.649', 'text': 'The implication was clear'}, {'start': '275.649', 'end': '277.489', 'text': 'his happiness resided with her'}, {'start': '277.489', 'end': '280.479', 'text': 'and I was merely an obstacle to be managed politely'}, {'start': '280.479', 'end': '282.268', 'text': 'She was testing the waters'}, {'start': '282.268', 'end': '284.322', 'text': 'trying to establish dominance'}, {'start': '284.322', 'end': '287.900', 'text': 'to make me feel like the intruder in my own marriage'}, {'start': '287.967', 'end': '288.695', 'text': 'Is that so'}, {'start': '288.762', 'end': '290.219', 'text': 'I kept my voice even'}, {'start': '290.219', 'end': '291.677', 'text': 'betraying no emotion'}, {'start': '291.743', 'end': '292.273', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '292.273', 'end': '295.255', 'text': 's happiness is naturally my foremost concern'}, {'start': '295.388', 'end': '298.303', 'text': 'She seemed emboldened by my placid response'}, {'start': '298.369', 'end': '300.357', 'text': 'He speaks of you with respect'}, {'start': '300.357', 'end': '301.019', 'text': 'of course'}, {'start': '301.019', 'end': '302.004', 'text': 'As the main wife'}, {'start': '302.004', 'end': '303.452', 'text': 'your position is secure'}, {'start': '303.510', 'end': '304.205', 'text': 'She paused'}, {'start': '304.205', 'end': '305.537', 'text': 'letting the unspoken'}, {'start': '305.537', 'end': '305.769', 'text': 'but'}, {'start': '305.769', 'end': '306.754', 'text': 'hang in the air'}, {'start': '306.812', 'end': '308.897', 'text': 'But respect… is different from love'}, {'start': '308.897', 'end': '309.186', 'text': 'isn'}, {'start': '309.186', 'end': '309.476', 'text': 't it'}, {'start': '309.476', 'end': '311.503', 'text': 'Some connections are simply deeper'}, {'start': '311.503', 'end': '313.588', 'text': 'forged by time and shared memories'}, {'start': '313.646', 'end': '315.905', 'text': 'She lightly touched the pearl hairpin'}, {'start': '315.963', 'end': '317.353', 'text': 'He remembers everything'}, {'start': '317.469', 'end': '320.365', 'text': 'Before I could formulate a suitably veiled retort'}, {'start': '320.365', 'end': '321.639', 'text': 'the curtain flickered'}, {'start': '321.639', 'end': '322.231', 'text': 'Lian Feng'}, {'start': '322.231', 'end': '324.775', 'text': 'Yanzhou’s most trusted personal attendant'}, {'start': '324.775', 'end': '325.544', 'text': 'stood there'}, {'start': '325.544', 'end': '327.201', 'text': 'his face an impassive mask'}, {'start': '327.201', 'end': '328.384', 'text': 'but his eyes sharp'}, {'start': '328.384', 'end': '329.449', 'text': 'He bowed slightly'}, {'start': '329.509', 'end': '329.864', 'text': 'Madam'}, {'start': '329.864', 'end': '330.751', 'text': 'Noble Consort'}, {'start': '330.810', 'end': '331.520', 'text': 'he greeted'}, {'start': '331.520', 'end': '335.899', 'text': 'his gaze lingering perhaps a fraction of a second longer on Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '335.899', 'end': '337.319', 'text': 's triumphant expression'}, {'start': '337.378', 'end': '340.159', 'text': 'The Young Marquis requires Noble Consort Cheng'}, {'start': '340.159', 'end': '341.519', 'text': 's presence in the study'}, {'start': '341.641', 'end': '343.409', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran’s smile widened'}, {'start': '343.409', 'end': '345.908', 'text': 'assuming it was a summons for affection'}, {'start': '345.908', 'end': '347.127', 'text': 'She rose gracefully'}, {'start': '347.188', 'end': '350.784', 'text': 'It seems Yanzhou cannot bear to be parted from me for long'}, {'start': '350.845', 'end': '351.698', 'text': 'she murmured'}, {'start': '351.698', 'end': '352.917', 'text': 'loud enough for me'}, {'start': '352.917', 'end': '353.831', 'text': 'and Lian Feng'}, {'start': '353.831', 'end': '354.380', 'text': 'to hear'}, {'start': '354.380', 'end': '358.829', 'text': 'She shot me a look that mingled pity and superiority before sweeping out'}, {'start': '358.829', 'end': '362.059', 'text': 'her silk robes whispering against the polished floor'}, {'start': '362.059', 'end': '363.055', 'text': 'I remained seated'}, {'start': '363.055', 'end': '364.438', 'text': 'my expression unchanged'}, {'start': '364.438', 'end': '364.991', 'text': 'Lian Feng'}, {'start': '364.991', 'end': '365.489', 'text': 'however'}, {'start': '365.489', 'end': '366.983', 'text': 'did not leave immediately'}, {'start': '366.983', 'end': '370.799', 'text': 'He took a step further into the room after Cheng Yanran had departed'}, {'start': '370.855', 'end': '371.187', 'text': 'Madam'}, {'start': '371.242', 'end': '372.182', 'text': 'he said quietly'}, {'start': '372.182', 'end': '373.012', 'text': 'his voice low'}, {'start': '373.067', 'end': '375.722', 'text': 'The Young Marquis overheard Noble Consort Cheng'}, {'start': '375.722', 'end': '376.829', 'text': 's… remarks just now'}, {'start': '376.829', 'end': '378.544', 'text': 'He was passing by the corridor'}, {'start': '378.654', 'end': '378.820', 'text': 'Ah'}, {'start': '378.820', 'end': '378.986', 'text': 'So'}, {'start': '378.986', 'end': '381.309', 'text': 'her little performance of dominance hadn'}, {'start': '381.309', 'end': '383.079', 'text': 't been as private as she thought'}, {'start': '383.079', 'end': '383.807', 'text': 'Interesting'}, {'start': '383.867', 'end': '385.503', 'text': 'Thank you for informing me'}, {'start': '385.503', 'end': '386.170', 'text': 'Lian Feng'}, {'start': '386.231', 'end': '387.139', 'text': 'I said calmly'}, {'start': '387.139', 'end': '391.018', 'text': 'His impassive face showed a hint of something – perhaps respect'}, {'start': '391.078', 'end': '393.320', 'text': 'The Young Marquis seemed… displeased'}, {'start': '393.381', 'end': '393.987', 'text': 'he added'}, {'start': '393.987', 'end': '396.168', 'text': 'before bowing again and retreating'}, {'start': '396.168', 'end': '396.835', 'text': 'Displeased'}, {'start': '396.835', 'end': '397.138', 'text': 'Good'}, {'start': '397.138', 'end': '400.895', 'text': 'Xu Yanzhou might harbor deep feelings for his white moonlight'}, {'start': '400.895', 'end': '403.379', 'text': 'but he was also the heir to a Marquisate'}, {'start': '403.379', 'end': '404.004', 'text': 'Appearances'}, {'start': '404.004', 'end': '404.577', 'text': 'propriety'}, {'start': '404.577', 'end': '407.234', 'text': 'and the respect due to his official wife mattered'}, {'start': '407.234', 'end': '410.202', 'text': 'especially when flaunted so carelessly before a servant'}, {'start': '410.202', 'end': '411.869', 'text': 'let alone his most trusted one'}, {'start': '411.869', 'end': '415.306', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran’s arrogance was already becoming her own worst enemy'}, {'start': '415.306', 'end': '416.088', 'text': 'Later that day'}, {'start': '416.088', 'end': '419.213', 'text': 'the news spread through the servant quarters like wildfire'}, {'start': '419.213', 'end': '422.233', 'text': 'Noble Consort Cheng had indeed been summoned to the study'}, {'start': '422.233', 'end': '423.639', 'text': 'but not for sweet nothings'}, {'start': '423.639', 'end': '429.763', 'text': 'She had been sharply reprimanded by Xu Yanzhou for her lack of decorum and disrespect towards me'}, {'start': '429.763', 'end': '430.520', 'text': 'Furthermore'}, {'start': '430.520', 'end': '435.318', 'text': 'he had decreed that she was to formally serve me tea the following morning'}, {'start': '435.318', 'end': '438.790', 'text': 'a ritualistic acknowledgement of my superior position'}, {'start': '438.790', 'end': '439.043', 'text': 'And'}, {'start': '439.043', 'end': '440.558', 'text': 'most gallingly for her'}, {'start': '440.558', 'end': '442.894', 'text': 'her movements were to be restricted'}, {'start': '442.894', 'end': '448.259', 'text': 'she was not to leave her courtyard without his express permission for the next month'}, {'start': '448.259', 'end': '451.005', 'text': 'When Cheng Yanran arrived the next morning'}, {'start': '451.005', 'end': '452.218', 'text': 'her eyes were red'}, {'start': '452.218', 'end': '452.665', 'text': 'rimmed'}, {'start': '452.665', 'end': '455.410', 'text': 'her face stripped of its earlier smugness'}, {'start': '455.410', 'end': '456.559', 'text': 'She knelt stiffly'}, {'start': '456.559', 'end': '459.432', 'text': 'presenting the tea cup with trembling hands'}, {'start': '459.496', 'end': '459.815', 'text': 'Wife'}, {'start': '459.815', 'end': '461.219', 'text': 'please accept my tea'}, {'start': '461.283', 'end': '462.113', 'text': 'she mumbled'}, {'start': '462.113', 'end': '464.284', 'text': 'her voice tight with humiliation'}, {'start': '464.284', 'end': '465.497', 'text': 'I accepted the cup'}, {'start': '465.497', 'end': '466.454', 'text': 'taking a slow'}, {'start': '466.454', 'end': '467.476', 'text': 'deliberate sip'}, {'start': '467.476', 'end': '468.817', 'text': 'The tea was lukewarm'}, {'start': '468.817', 'end': '470.859', 'text': 'likely from her trembling delay'}, {'start': '470.926', 'end': '472.711', 'text': 'Sister Cheng is too polite'}, {'start': '472.777', 'end': '473.769', 'text': 'I said gently'}, {'start': '473.769', 'end': '475.224', 'text': 'placing the cup down'}, {'start': '475.290', 'end': '475.620', 'text': 'Rise'}, {'start': '475.620', 'end': '478.265', 'text': 'We are sisters serving the same husband'}, {'start': '478.265', 'end': '478.662', 'text': 'There'}, {'start': '478.662', 'end': '482.497', 'text': 's no need for such formality to cause friction between us'}, {'start': '482.630', 'end': '483.886', 'text': 'My words were kind'}, {'start': '483.886', 'end': '484.878', 'text': 'generous even'}, {'start': '484.878', 'end': '486.134', 'text': 'But the act itself'}, {'start': '486.134', 'end': '490.234', 'text': 'forced upon her by Yanzhou after her attempt to undermine me'}, {'start': '490.234', 'end': '491.159', 'text': 'spoke volumes'}, {'start': '491.159', 'end': '495.245', 'text': 'She had tried to wield her influence over his heart as a weapon'}, {'start': '495.245', 'end': '497.543', 'text': 'only to have it turned back on her'}, {'start': '497.543', 'end': '501.373', 'text': 'She had mistaken his lingering affection for absolute power'}, {'start': '501.373', 'end': '502.969', 'text': 'A foolish miscalculation'}, {'start': '502.969', 'end': '504.310', 'text': 'Watching her retreat'}, {'start': '504.310', 'end': '505.523', 'text': 'shoulders slumped'}, {'start': '505.523', 'end': '507.884', 'text': 'I felt a cool sense of satisfaction'}, {'start': '507.884', 'end': '509.799', 'text': 'This was just the first lesson'}, {'start': '509.799', 'end': '511.070', 'text': 'There would be many more'}, {'start': '511.070', 'end': '512.798', 'text': 'The period following Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '512.798', 'end': '514.476', 'text': 's reprimand was deceptively calm'}, {'start': '514.476', 'end': '516.458', 'text': 'She remained confined to her courtyard'}, {'start': '516.458', 'end': '517.474', 'text': 'licking her wounds'}, {'start': '517.474', 'end': '518.389', 'text': 'while Xu Yanzhou'}, {'start': '518.389', 'end': '521.337', 'text': 'perhaps feeling a pang of guilt or simply seeking solace'}, {'start': '521.337', 'end': '524.285', 'text': 'spent several nights with her once her confinement ended'}, {'start': '524.285', 'end': '526.420', 'text': 'Whispers reached me of renewed tenderness'}, {'start': '526.420', 'end': '526.725', 'text': 'late'}, {'start': '526.725', 'end': '528.758', 'text': 'night lamplight burning in her chambers'}, {'start': '528.758', 'end': '531.299', 'text': 'shared meals delivered to her private dining room'}, {'start': '531.299', 'end': '531.998', 'text': 'One afternoon'}, {'start': '531.998', 'end': '532.696', 'text': 'my head maid'}, {'start': '532.696', 'end': '533.245', 'text': 'Rui Xiang'}, {'start': '533.245', 'end': '534.641', 'text': 'returned from the kitchens'}, {'start': '534.641', 'end': '536.287', 'text': 'her face tight with indignation'}, {'start': '536.337', 'end': '536.636', 'text': 'Madam'}, {'start': '536.686', 'end': '537.285', 'text': 'she hissed'}, {'start': '537.285', 'end': '539.330', 'text': 'ensuring no one else was within earshot'}, {'start': '539.429', 'end': '542.023', 'text': 'that head matron in Noble Consort Cheng’s courtyard'}, {'start': '542.023', 'end': '542.622', 'text': 'Matron Liu'}, {'start': '542.622', 'end': '543.819', 'text': 'is becoming unbearable'}, {'start': '543.819', 'end': '547.809', 'text': 'She’s boasting to anyone who will listen about how favored the Noble Consort is'}, {'start': '547.809', 'end': '550.053', 'text': 'how the Young Marquis only has eyes for her'}, {'start': '550.053', 'end': '550.452', 'text': 'how it'}, {'start': '550.452', 'end': '552.048', 'text': 's only a matter of time before…'}, {'start': '552.048', 'end': '553.196', 'text': 'Rui Xiang trailed off'}, {'start': '553.196', 'end': '555.639', 'text': 'unable to voice the ultimate fear – displacement'}, {'start': '555.639', 'end': '557.271', 'text': 'I waved a dismissive hand'}, {'start': '557.271', 'end': '559.531', 'text': 'though my mind was already working'}, {'start': '559.593', 'end': '560.472', 'text': 'Let her boast'}, {'start': '560.472', 'end': '562.480', 'text': 'Empty words make the most noise'}, {'start': '562.669', 'end': '563.296', 'text': 'But Madam'}, {'start': '563.296', 'end': '564.552', 'text': 'it reflects poorly'}, {'start': '564.552', 'end': '567.187', 'text': 'The other servants are starting to gossip'}, {'start': '567.187', 'end': '567.941', 'text': 'wondering…'}, {'start': '568.066', 'end': '570.890', 'text': 'Wondering if their mistress is losing ground'}, {'start': '570.953', 'end': '572.208', 'text': 'I finished for her'}, {'start': '572.208', 'end': '574.154', 'text': 'a cool smile touching my lips'}, {'start': '574.217', 'end': '574.907', 'text': 'Perhaps it'}, {'start': '574.907', 'end': '577.920', 'text': 's time we gave them something else to talk about'}, {'start': '577.920', 'end': '578.883', 'text': 'Something… more'}, {'start': '579.003', 'end': '580.328', 'text': 'An idea began to form'}, {'start': '580.328', 'end': '582.195', 'text': 'audacious and perfectly timed'}, {'start': '582.195', 'end': '586.712', 'text': 'Yanzhou was currently basking in the glow of rekindled affection with his'}, {'start': '586.712', 'end': '587.314', 'text': 'true love'}, {'start': '587.374', 'end': '588.879', 'text': 'His guard would be down'}, {'start': '588.879', 'end': '593.275', 'text': 'perhaps even feeling slightly indebted to me for my earlier magnanimity'}, {'start': '593.275', 'end': '594.179', 'text': 'And Matron Liu'}, {'start': '594.179', 'end': '596.949', 'text': 's boasting provided the perfect justification'}, {'start': '596.949', 'end': '597.732', 'text': 'That evening'}, {'start': '597.732', 'end': '599.900', 'text': 'I waited for Yanzhou in my chambers'}, {'start': '599.900', 'end': '602.987', 'text': 'I had prepared his favorite tea and wore a simple'}, {'start': '602.987', 'end': '603.851', 'text': 'elegant robe'}, {'start': '603.851', 'end': '604.839', 'text': 'When he arrived'}, {'start': '604.839', 'end': '606.013', 'text': 'he seemed relaxed'}, {'start': '606.013', 'end': '609.347', 'text': 'pleased with himself and the state of his affections'}, {'start': '609.409', 'end': '609.594', 'text': 'Yu'}, {'start': '609.594', 'end': '609.779', 'text': 'er'}, {'start': '609.841', 'end': '610.767', 'text': 'he greeted me'}, {'start': '610.767', 'end': '613.916', 'text': 'a warmth in his voice that had been absent lately'}, {'start': '613.978', 'end': '614.472', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '614.534', 'end': '615.645', 'text': 'I replied softly'}, {'start': '615.645', 'end': '616.695', 'text': 'pouring his tea'}, {'start': '616.695', 'end': '617.560', 'text': 'You seem well'}, {'start': '617.739', 'end': '618.037', 'text': 'I am'}, {'start': '618.097', 'end': '618.873', 'text': 'he admitted'}, {'start': '618.873', 'end': '619.708', 'text': 'taking a sip'}, {'start': '619.768', 'end': '622.036', 'text': 'Yanran… she understands her place now'}, {'start': '622.036', 'end': '623.230', 'text': 'Things are peaceful'}, {'start': '623.409', 'end': '624.006', 'text': 'I am glad'}, {'start': '624.065', 'end': '625.140', 'text': 'I said sincerely'}, {'start': '625.140', 'end': '627.467', 'text': 'though not for the reasons he assumed'}, {'start': '627.467', 'end': '629.318', 'text': 'I let a moment of silence pass'}, {'start': '629.318', 'end': '630.631', 'text': 'then lowered my eyes'}, {'start': '630.631', 'end': '632.899', 'text': 'adopting a look of gentle melancholy'}, {'start': '632.959', 'end': '633.436', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '633.436', 'end': '636.600', 'text': 'there is something that has been weighing on my mind'}, {'start': '636.791', 'end': '636.983', 'text': 'Oh'}, {'start': '636.983', 'end': '637.686', 'text': 'What is it'}, {'start': '637.750', 'end': '638.390', 'text': 'he asked'}, {'start': '638.390', 'end': '639.349', 'text': 'attentive now'}, {'start': '639.412', 'end': '640.819', 'text': 'It is… my own failing'}, {'start': '640.883', 'end': '642.225', 'text': 'I sighed delicately'}, {'start': '642.289', 'end': '644.655', 'text': 'We have been married for three years'}, {'start': '644.655', 'end': '646.381', 'text': 'yet my belly remains flat'}, {'start': '646.381', 'end': '647.596', 'text': 'The Old Madam hasn'}, {'start': '647.596', 'end': '648.555', 'text': 't pressured me'}, {'start': '648.555', 'end': '650.153', 'text': 'for which I am grateful'}, {'start': '650.153', 'end': '650.984', 'text': 'but I worry'}, {'start': '650.984', 'end': '652.710', 'text': 'The Marquisate needs heirs'}, {'start': '652.710', 'end': '653.605', 'text': 'You need sons'}, {'start': '653.605', 'end': '654.180', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '654.308', 'end': '655.587', 'text': 'He frowned slightly'}, {'start': '655.651', 'end': '655.843', 'text': 'Yu'}, {'start': '655.843', 'end': '656.034', 'text': 'er'}, {'start': '656.034', 'end': '656.354', 'text': 'don'}, {'start': '656.354', 'end': '658.720', 'text': 't trouble yourself with such thoughts'}, {'start': '658.720', 'end': '660.121', 'text': 'These things take time'}, {'start': '660.304', 'end': '660.791', 'text': 'Perhaps'}, {'start': '660.852', 'end': '661.583', 'text': 'I conceded'}, {'start': '661.644', 'end': '663.228', 'text': 'But time waits for no one'}, {'start': '663.228', 'end': '666.214', 'text': 'And while Noble Consort Cheng is indeed favored…'}, {'start': '666.214', 'end': '666.823', 'text': 'I paused'}, {'start': '666.823', 'end': '668.590', 'text': 'as if hesitant to speak ill'}, {'start': '668.772', 'end': '671.941', 'text': 'her matron has been rather vocal about her position'}, {'start': '671.941', 'end': '674.073', 'text': 'It makes me think… perhaps Husband'}, {'start': '674.073', 'end': '674.865', 'text': 's attentions'}, {'start': '674.865', 'end': '675.901', 'text': 'while cherished'}, {'start': '675.901', 'end': '677.241', 'text': 'are too concentrated'}, {'start': '677.241', 'end': '678.704', 'text': 'For the sake of lineage'}, {'start': '678.704', 'end': '683.700', 'text': 'for the prosperity of the family… perhaps it would be wise to broaden the chances'}, {'start': '683.816', 'end': '684.750', 'text': 'He looked at me'}, {'start': '684.750', 'end': '687.551', 'text': 'suspicion warring with a dawning understanding'}, {'start': '687.610', 'end': '689.010', 'text': 'What are you suggesting'}, {'start': '689.010', 'end': '689.244', 'text': 'Yu'}, {'start': '689.244', 'end': '689.419', 'text': 'er'}, {'start': '689.594', 'end': '690.528', 'text': 'I am suggesting'}, {'start': '690.586', 'end': '691.053', 'text': 'I said'}, {'start': '691.053', 'end': '692.629', 'text': 'meeting his gaze directly'}, {'start': '692.629', 'end': '695.955', 'text': 'my expression one of utmost wifely devotion and concern'}, {'start': '696.072', 'end': '700.975', 'text': 'that for the sake of ensuring heirs and demonstrating the vitality of our household'}, {'start': '700.975', 'end': '704.360', 'text': 'we should bring more beauty and life into the rear courts'}, {'start': '704.360', 'end': '707.962', 'text': 'Let us select ten virtuous and comely maidens to serve you'}, {'start': '707.962', 'end': '708.511', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '708.511', 'end': '711.869', 'text': 'Ten new sisters to share the burden of expectation and'}, {'start': '711.869', 'end': '712.418', 'text': 'perhaps'}, {'start': '712.418', 'end': '715.898', 'text': 'bless this house with children sooner rather than later'}, {'start': '716.021', 'end': '716.997', 'text': 'He stared at me'}, {'start': '716.997', 'end': '718.280', 'text': 'utterly dumbfounded'}, {'start': '718.280', 'end': '720.905', 'text': 'This was likely the last thing he expected'}, {'start': '720.905', 'end': '722.431', 'text': 'Giving him one concubine'}, {'start': '722.431', 'end': '723.225', 'text': 'his beloved'}, {'start': '723.225', 'end': '724.080', 'text': 'was one thing'}, {'start': '724.080', 'end': '726.421', 'text': 'Actively proposing he take ten more'}, {'start': '726.486', 'end': '726.746', 'text': 'Ten'}, {'start': '726.811', 'end': '727.527', 'text': 'he echoed'}, {'start': '727.527', 'end': '728.372', 'text': 'incredulous'}, {'start': '728.437', 'end': '728.892', 'text': 'A good'}, {'start': '728.892', 'end': '729.803', 'text': 'round number'}, {'start': '729.868', 'end': '731.234', 'text': 'I affirmed serenely'}, {'start': '731.299', 'end': '732.535', 'text': 'It shows abundance'}, {'start': '732.535', 'end': '733.315', 'text': 'prosperity'}, {'start': '733.315', 'end': '737.998', 'text': 'And it dilutes any… singular focus that might cause imbalance or gossip'}, {'start': '737.998', 'end': '739.104', 'text': 'like Matron Liu'}, {'start': '739.104', 'end': '740.600', 'text': 's recent indiscretions'}, {'start': '740.600', 'end': '745.087', 'text': 'It demonstrates that the Marquisate prioritizes heirs above all else'}, {'start': '745.087', 'end': '745.868', 'text': 'and that I'}, {'start': '745.868', 'end': '747.038', 'text': 'as the main wife'}, {'start': '747.038', 'end': '748.860', 'text': 'support this wholeheartedly'}, {'start': '748.912', 'end': '749.754', 'text': 'I added softly'}, {'start': '749.859', 'end': '752.910', 'text': 'It would also quiet any whispers about my own… inadequacy'}, {'start': '753.015', 'end': '753.541', 'text': 'The logic'}, {'start': '753.541', 'end': '754.541', 'text': 'twisted as it was'}, {'start': '754.541', 'end': '755.856', 'text': 'was difficult to refute'}, {'start': '755.856', 'end': '759.485', 'text': 'especially when framed as concern for lineage and household harmony'}, {'start': '759.485', 'end': '761.694', 'text': 'playing directly into his duties as heir'}, {'start': '761.694', 'end': '766.060', 'text': 'It also subtly addressed the Cheng Yanran situation without attacking her directly'}, {'start': '766.060', 'end': '769.480', 'text': 'framing it as a solution to the gossip her servant was spreading'}, {'start': '769.480', 'end': '769.705', 'text': 'And'}, {'start': '769.705', 'end': '771.224', 'text': 'appealing to his male ego'}, {'start': '771.224', 'end': '775.671', 'text': 'the prospect of ten beautiful new additions was likely not entirely unwelcome'}, {'start': '775.671', 'end': '776.628', 'text': 'He considered it'}, {'start': '776.628', 'end': '777.697', 'text': 'stroking his chin'}, {'start': '777.697', 'end': '778.767', 'text': 'The surprise faded'}, {'start': '778.767', 'end': '780.568', 'text': 'replaced by a calculating look'}, {'start': '780.568', 'end': '781.638', 'text': 'Ten new concubines'}, {'start': '781.638', 'end': '787.154', 'text': 'chosen by his accommodating wife… it certainly diversified his options and lessened Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '787.154', 'end': '788.280', 'text': 's perceived leverage'}, {'start': '788.339', 'end': '790.317', 'text': 'You truly feel this is necessary'}, {'start': '790.377', 'end': '790.977', 'text': 'he asked'}, {'start': '790.977', 'end': '795.052', 'text': 'though his tone suggested he was already leaning towards agreement'}, {'start': '795.112', 'end': '796.011', 'text': 'For the family'}, {'start': '796.011', 'end': '796.551', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '796.611', 'end': '797.689', 'text': 'I replied firmly'}, {'start': '797.749', 'end': '799.727', 'text': 'And for peace in the rear courts'}, {'start': '799.847', 'end': '800.926', 'text': 'He finally nodded'}, {'start': '800.986', 'end': '801.585', 'text': 'Very well'}, {'start': '801.585', 'end': '801.825', 'text': 'Yu'}, {'start': '801.825', 'end': '802.005', 'text': 'er'}, {'start': '802.005', 'end': '805.062', 'text': 'If you believe this is best… I trust your judgment'}, {'start': '805.062', 'end': '806.920', 'text': 'You may handle the arrangements'}, {'start': '807.085', 'end': '807.635', 'text': 'Thank you'}, {'start': '807.635', 'end': '808.130', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '808.185', 'end': '808.845', 'text': 'I murmured'}, {'start': '808.845', 'end': '810.330', 'text': 'lowering my eyes demurely'}, {'start': '810.330', 'end': '811.320', 'text': 'The very next day'}, {'start': '811.320', 'end': '812.915', 'text': 'the selection process began'}, {'start': '812.915', 'end': '814.345', 'text': 'I ensured it was thorough'}, {'start': '814.345', 'end': '814.675', 'text': 'fair'}, {'start': '814.675', 'end': '816.655', 'text': 'but with specific criteria in mind'}, {'start': '816.655', 'end': '819.680', 'text': 'I chose women from various backgrounds – some educated'}, {'start': '819.680', 'end': '821.440', 'text': 'some skilled in music or dance'}, {'start': '821.440', 'end': '823.530', 'text': 'some simply breathtakingly beautiful'}, {'start': '823.530', 'end': '825.345', 'text': 'others with gentle temperaments'}, {'start': '825.345', 'end': '828.700', 'text': 'and a few with fiery spirits hidden beneath placid exteriors'}, {'start': '828.700', 'end': '829.689', 'text': 'Variety was key'}, {'start': '829.689', 'end': '830.556', 'text': 'Once selected'}, {'start': '830.556', 'end': '833.773', 'text': 'they were settled into their respective courtyards'}, {'start': '833.773', 'end': '835.319', 'text': 'I gathered them together'}, {'start': '835.319', 'end': '837.485', 'text': 'not for a lecture on subservience'}, {'start': '837.485', 'end': '840.145', 'text': 'but for a carefully worded welcome speech'}, {'start': '840.207', 'end': '840.702', 'text': 'Sisters'}, {'start': '840.764', 'end': '842.682', 'text': 'I addressed the ten beautiful'}, {'start': '842.682', 'end': '843.610', 'text': 'nervous faces'}, {'start': '843.733', 'end': '845.342', 'text': 'welcome to the Marquisate'}, {'start': '845.342', 'end': '847.817', 'text': 'You are here to serve the Young Marquis'}, {'start': '847.817', 'end': '848.930', 'text': 'to bring joy and'}, {'start': '848.930', 'end': '849.611', 'text': 'hopefully'}, {'start': '849.611', 'end': '851.220', 'text': 'heirs to this noble house'}, {'start': '851.220', 'end': '852.416', 'text': 'Your primary duty'}, {'start': '852.416', 'end': '856.734', 'text': 'and indeed your path to security and comfort within these walls'}, {'start': '856.734', 'end': '858.927', 'text': 'is to capture the Young Marquis'}, {'start': '858.927', 'end': '859.459', 'text': 's favor'}, {'start': '859.459', 'end': '861.452', 'text': 'Do not be shy in your efforts'}, {'start': '861.452', 'end': '863.711', 'text': 'Healthy competition is encouraged'}, {'start': '863.711', 'end': '865.173', 'text': 'Show him your talents'}, {'start': '865.173', 'end': '866.036', 'text': 'your charms'}, {'start': '866.036', 'end': '867.033', 'text': 'your devotion'}, {'start': '867.033', 'end': '869.492', 'text': 'The rear court can be a lonely place'}, {'start': '869.492', 'end': '873.080', 'text': 'companionship and favor are prizes worth striving for'}, {'start': '873.214', 'end': '876.366', 'text': 'I deliberately avoided mentioning Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '876.366', 'end': '879.920', 'text': 'Let them see her simply as one competitor among many'}, {'start': '879.920', 'end': '881.932', 'text': 'albeit one with a head start'}, {'start': '881.932', 'end': '885.419', 'text': 'I instructed my maids to subtly guide the newcomers'}, {'start': '885.419', 'end': '886.961', 'text': 'teaching them Yanzhou'}, {'start': '886.961', 'end': '887.900', 'text': 's preferences'}, {'start': '887.900', 'end': '889.577', 'text': 'hinting at Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '889.577', 'end': '891.924', 'text': 's perceived weaknesses – her pride'}, {'start': '891.924', 'end': '893.735', 'text': 'her occasional melancholy'}, {'start': '893.735', 'end': '895.680', 'text': 'her expectation of deference'}, {'start': '895.680', 'end': '897.038', 'text': 'The effect was immediate'}, {'start': '897.038', 'end': '897.908', 'text': 'The rear courts'}, {'start': '897.908', 'end': '901.168', 'text': 'previously dominated by the singular drama of Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '901.168', 'end': '901.766', 'text': 's presence'}, {'start': '901.766', 'end': '903.016', 'text': 'exploded with vibrant'}, {'start': '903.016', 'end': '904.103', 'text': 'competitive energy'}, {'start': '904.103', 'end': '905.570', 'text': 'Gifts were sent to Yanzhou'}, {'start': '905.570', 'end': '906.005', 'text': 's study'}, {'start': '906.005', 'end': '909.809', 'text': 'musical performances drifted from various courtyards in the evenings'}, {'start': '909.809', 'end': '912.526', 'text': 'chance encounters were engineered in the gardens'}, {'start': '912.526', 'end': '913.504', 'text': 'The ten newcomers'}, {'start': '913.504', 'end': '915.026', 'text': 'unburdened by Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '915.026', 'end': '916.765', 'text': 's history or her delicate pride'}, {'start': '916.765', 'end': '919.700', 'text': 'threw themselves into the pursuit of favor with gusto'}, {'start': '919.700', 'end': '923.111', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran was suddenly faced with a battlefield she hadn'}, {'start': '923.111', 'end': '923.907', 'text': 't anticipated'}, {'start': '923.907', 'end': '924.134', 'text': 'She'}, {'start': '924.134', 'end': '927.148', 'text': 'who considered herself the unique object of Yanzhou'}, {'start': '927.148', 'end': '928.000', 'text': 's deepest love'}, {'start': '928.000', 'end': '931.298', 'text': 'was now just one of eleven women vying for his attention'}, {'start': '931.298', 'end': '937.780', 'text': 'Her pride prevented her from joining the more overt displays of flirtation and solicitation employed by the others'}, {'start': '937.780', 'end': '940.436', 'text': 'She tried to rely on her established bond'}, {'start': '940.436', 'end': '942.777', 'text': 'waiting for Yanzhou to seek her out'}, {'start': '942.777', 'end': '948.976', 'text': 'but his attention was inevitably drawn to the novelty and sheer variety offered by the newcomers'}, {'start': '948.976', 'end': '951.380', 'text': 'Matron Liu’s boasting ceased abruptly'}, {'start': '951.380', 'end': '953.278', 'text': 'replaced by anxious whispers'}, {'start': '953.278', 'end': '955.682', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran’s courtyard grew quieter'}, {'start': '955.682', 'end': '957.580', 'text': 'her expression often strained'}, {'start': '957.580', 'end': '958.694', 'text': 'She was losing ground'}, {'start': '958.694', 'end': '960.671', 'text': 'not through any direct action of mine'}, {'start': '960.671', 'end': '961.887', 'text': 'but because she couldn'}, {'start': '961.887', 'end': '963.813', 'text': 't adapt to the new game I had created'}, {'start': '963.813', 'end': '966.549', 'text': 'The ten beautiful distractions were working perfectly'}, {'start': '966.549', 'end': '967.461', 'text': 'dividing Yanzhou'}, {'start': '967.461', 'end': '968.526', 'text': 's time and attention'}, {'start': '968.526', 'end': '972.073', 'text': 'and slowly eroding the pedestal Cheng Yanran had placed herself upon'}, {'start': '972.073', 'end': '972.377', 'text': 'And I'}, {'start': '972.377', 'end': '974.353', 'text': 'the architect of this chaotic harmony'}, {'start': '974.353', 'end': '976.077', 'text': 'watched serenely from the center'}, {'start': '976.077', 'end': '977.800', 'text': 'my position more secure than ever'}, {'start': '977.800', 'end': '982.621', 'text': 'The arrival of the ten concubines sent ripples not just through the rear courts'}, {'start': '982.621', 'end': '985.333', 'text': 'but all the way to the Old Madam’s chambers'}, {'start': '985.333', 'end': '985.936', 'text': 'Initially'}, {'start': '985.936', 'end': '987.684', 'text': 'I expected some reservation'}, {'start': '987.684', 'end': '989.251', 'text': 'perhaps even disapproval'}, {'start': '989.251', 'end': '990.215', 'text': 'from my mother'}, {'start': '990.215', 'end': '990.396', 'text': 'in'}, {'start': '990.396', 'end': '990.637', 'text': 'law'}, {'start': '990.637', 'end': '991.240', 'text': 'After all'}, {'start': '991.240', 'end': '995.700', 'text': 'managing such a large contingent of women could be seen as courting chaos'}, {'start': '995.700', 'end': '997.225', 'text': 'I chose my moment carefully'}, {'start': '997.225', 'end': '1000.983', 'text': 'visiting her under the pretext of discussing the household accounts'}, {'start': '1000.983', 'end': '1004.796', 'text': 'a duty she still nominally oversaw despite my increasing involvement'}, {'start': '1004.796', 'end': '1006.376', 'text': 'After presenting the ledgers'}, {'start': '1006.376', 'end': '1007.683', 'text': 'all perfectly balanced'}, {'start': '1007.683', 'end': '1008.228', 'text': 'I paused'}, {'start': '1008.228', 'end': '1010.189', 'text': 'adopting a look of dutiful concern'}, {'start': '1010.243', 'end': '1010.625', 'text': 'Mother'}, {'start': '1010.679', 'end': '1011.551', 'text': 'I began softly'}, {'start': '1011.660', 'end': '1015.800', 'text': 'I hope the recent additions to the household have not caused you undue worry'}, {'start': '1015.800', 'end': '1017.992', 'text': 'I know it seems… extravagant'}, {'start': '1018.143', 'end': '1019.202', 'text': 'The Old Madam'}, {'start': '1019.202', 'end': '1028.274', 'text': 'a woman whose stern exterior hid a pragmatic mind focused solely on the prosperity and continuation of the Hou lineage'}, {'start': '1028.274', 'end': '1030.844', 'text': 'looked at me over her spectacles'}, {'start': '1030.920', 'end': '1031.827', 'text': 'Extravagant'}, {'start': '1031.827', 'end': '1032.432', 'text': 'Perhaps'}, {'start': '1032.432', 'end': '1033.188', 'text': 'Necessary'}, {'start': '1033.188', 'end': '1035.003', 'text': 'That remains to be seen'}, {'start': '1035.003', 'end': '1036.741', 'text': 'Explain your reasoning'}, {'start': '1036.741', 'end': '1037.271', 'text': 'child'}, {'start': '1037.271', 'end': '1038.556', 'text': 'I heard whispers'}, {'start': '1038.556', 'end': '1040.900', 'text': 'but I wish to hear it from you'}, {'start': '1041.005', 'end': '1042.055', 'text': 'This was my opening'}, {'start': '1042.108', 'end': '1042.476', 'text': 'Mother'}, {'start': '1042.476', 'end': '1043.579', 'text': 'my foremost concern'}, {'start': '1043.579', 'end': '1045.628', 'text': 'after ensuring your and Father’s well'}, {'start': '1045.628', 'end': '1045.944', 'text': 'being'}, {'start': '1045.944', 'end': '1047.677', 'text': 'is the continuation of our line'}, {'start': '1047.677', 'end': '1048.308', 'text': 'As you know'}, {'start': '1048.361', 'end': '1049.411', 'text': 'I lowered my voice'}, {'start': '1049.411', 'end': '1052.038', 'text': 'letting a hint of personal sadness color my tone'}, {'start': '1052.144', 'end': '1055.927', 'text': 'I have unfortunately failed to bear fruit after three years of marriage'}, {'start': '1055.927', 'end': '1057.555', 'text': 'While Husband has been patient'}, {'start': '1057.555', 'end': '1060.025', 'text': 'and Noble Consort Cheng carries his affection'}, {'start': '1060.025', 'end': '1062.600', 'text': 'relying on one or two blossoms is a fragile hope'}, {'start': '1062.600', 'end': '1064.207', 'text': 'I felt… it was my duty'}, {'start': '1064.207', 'end': '1065.466', 'text': 'as the main wife'}, {'start': '1065.466', 'end': '1069.311', 'text': 'to ensure Husband has every opportunity to sire heirs'}, {'start': '1069.311', 'end': '1072.526', 'text': 'More fields yield a greater chance of harvest'}, {'start': '1072.526', 'end': '1073.435', 'text': 'do they not'}, {'start': '1073.435', 'end': '1076.162', 'text': 'It is for the future of the Marquisate'}, {'start': '1076.162', 'end': '1076.721', 'text': 'Mother'}, {'start': '1076.721', 'end': '1078.189', 'text': 'To secure our legacy'}, {'start': '1078.329', 'end': '1080.776', 'text': 'I watched her expression carefully'}, {'start': '1080.776', 'end': '1082.244', 'text': 'The mention of heirs'}, {'start': '1082.244', 'end': '1082.873', 'text': 'lineage'}, {'start': '1082.873', 'end': '1085.320', 'text': 'and legacy struck the right chords'}, {'start': '1085.320', 'end': '1085.820', 'text': 'My self'}, {'start': '1085.820', 'end': '1091.080', 'text': 'deprecation regarding my own lack of children positioned me not as jealous or power'}, {'start': '1091.080', 'end': '1091.518', 'text': 'hungry'}, {'start': '1091.518', 'end': '1092.332', 'text': 'but as self'}, {'start': '1092.332', 'end': '1095.275', 'text': 'sacrificing for the greater good of the family'}, {'start': '1095.275', 'end': '1097.404', 'text': 'The Old Madam considered my words'}, {'start': '1097.404', 'end': '1098.406', 'text': 'her gaze sharp'}, {'start': '1098.469', 'end': '1100.347', 'text': 'And the potential for discord'}, {'start': '1100.347', 'end': '1102.288', 'text': 'Eleven women vying for one man'}, {'start': '1102.288', 'end': '1104.480', 'text': 's attention is a recipe for trouble'}, {'start': '1104.627', 'end': '1105.852', 'text': 'I have taken precautions'}, {'start': '1105.852', 'end': '1106.245', 'text': 'Mother'}, {'start': '1106.294', 'end': '1107.470', 'text': 'I assured her smoothly'}, {'start': '1107.519', 'end': '1112.128', 'text': 'I have made it clear that their primary duty is securing Husband’s favor and bearing children'}, {'start': '1112.128', 'end': '1113.550', 'text': 'While competition is natural'}, {'start': '1113.550', 'end': '1114.727', 'text': 'I oversee them closely'}, {'start': '1114.727', 'end': '1117.473', 'text': 'Any serious disruption is dealt with swiftly and fairly'}, {'start': '1117.473', 'end': '1118.355', 'text': 'My aim is harmony'}, {'start': '1118.355', 'end': '1119.630', 'text': 'albeit a… lively harmony'}, {'start': '1119.630', 'end': '1120.218', 'text': 'Furthermore'}, {'start': '1120.267', 'end': '1121.346', 'text': 'I leaned in slightly'}, {'start': '1121.444', 'end': '1123.062', 'text': 'it prevents any single concubine'}, {'start': '1123.062', 'end': '1125.269', 'text': 'even one with a prior connection to Husband'}, {'start': '1125.318', 'end': '1127.034', 'text': '– a subtle nod to Cheng Yanran –'}, {'start': '1127.034', 'end': '1129.780', 'text': 'from becoming too complacent or assuming undue influence'}, {'start': '1129.780', 'end': '1131.295', 'text': 'All serve the Marquisate'}, {'start': '1131.295', 'end': '1133.660', 'text': 'under your guidance and my management'}, {'start': '1133.781', 'end': '1135.418', 'text': 'A flicker of understanding'}, {'start': '1135.418', 'end': '1136.752', 'text': 'and perhaps approval'}, {'start': '1136.752', 'end': '1137.601', 'text': 'lit her eyes'}, {'start': '1137.601', 'end': '1138.389', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '1138.389', 'end': '1139.056', 'text': 's position'}, {'start': '1139.056', 'end': '1142.512', 'text': 'stemming from sentiment rather than strategic advantage'}, {'start': '1142.512', 'end': '1147.119', 'text': 'had likely always been a point of mild concern for the pragmatic Old Madam'}, {'start': '1147.119', 'end': '1147.604', 'text': 'My move'}, {'start': '1147.604', 'end': '1148.332', 'text': 'while bold'}, {'start': '1148.332', 'end': '1151.000', 'text': 'effectively diluted that specific influence'}, {'start': '1151.059', 'end': '1151.296', 'text': 'Hmm'}, {'start': '1151.355', 'end': '1152.184', 'text': 'she murmured'}, {'start': '1152.184', 'end': '1154.139', 'text': 'tapping a finger on the armrest'}, {'start': '1154.198', 'end': '1155.323', 'text': 'You show foresight'}, {'start': '1155.323', 'end': '1155.856', 'text': 'Shen Yu'}, {'start': '1155.856', 'end': '1157.100', 'text': 'Managing a household'}, {'start': '1157.100', 'end': '1158.758', 'text': 'especially the rear courts'}, {'start': '1158.758', 'end': '1161.068', 'text': 'requires a firm hand and a clear head'}, {'start': '1161.068', 'end': '1162.253', 'text': 'not just sentiment'}, {'start': '1162.253', 'end': '1164.681', 'text': 'Ensuring the lineage is indeed paramount'}, {'start': '1164.741', 'end': '1166.636', 'text': 'She gave me a calculating look'}, {'start': '1166.695', 'end': '1167.287', 'text': 'Very well'}, {'start': '1167.287', 'end': '1168.709', 'text': 'Continue as you see fit'}, {'start': '1168.709', 'end': '1169.597', 'text': 'Keep the peace'}, {'start': '1169.597', 'end': '1170.841', 'text': 'manage the expenses'}, {'start': '1170.841', 'end': '1172.500', 'text': 'and encourage… fruitfulness'}, {'start': '1172.500', 'end': '1174.936', 'text': 'Report any major issues directly to me'}, {'start': '1175.061', 'end': '1175.561', 'text': 'It wasn'}, {'start': '1175.561', 'end': '1176.685', 'text': 't effusive praise'}, {'start': '1176.685', 'end': '1178.622', 'text': 'but coming from the Old Madam'}, {'start': '1178.622', 'end': '1180.496', 'text': 'it was a significant victory'}, {'start': '1180.496', 'end': '1182.682', 'text': 'She saw my actions not as reckless'}, {'start': '1182.682', 'end': '1184.431', 'text': 'but as strategically sound'}, {'start': '1184.431', 'end': '1185.806', 'text': 'My image as a capable'}, {'start': '1185.806', 'end': '1186.368', 'text': 'dutiful'}, {'start': '1186.368', 'end': '1190.116', 'text': 'and wisely proactive mistress of the house was solidifying'}, {'start': '1190.116', 'end': '1191.553', 'text': 'In the following weeks'}, {'start': '1191.553', 'end': '1193.240', 'text': 'I put my words into action'}, {'start': '1193.240', 'end': '1196.490', 'text': 'The rear courts became a stage for intricate dramas of favor'}, {'start': '1196.490', 'end': '1196.917', 'text': 'seeking'}, {'start': '1196.917', 'end': '1199.049', 'text': 'There were minor squabbles over fabrics'}, {'start': '1199.049', 'end': '1200.061', 'text': 'perceived slights'}, {'start': '1200.061', 'end': '1200.754', 'text': 'and Yanzhou'}, {'start': '1200.754', 'end': '1201.927', 'text': 's fleeting attentions'}, {'start': '1201.927', 'end': '1202.673', 'text': 'Concubine Liu'}, {'start': '1202.673', 'end': '1203.898', 'text': 'skilled in the zither'}, {'start': '1203.898', 'end': '1207.522', 'text': 'would play melancholic tunes whenever Yanzhou passed her courtyard'}, {'start': '1207.522', 'end': '1208.375', 'text': 'Concubine Zhang'}, {'start': '1208.375', 'end': '1209.281', 'text': 'a talented cook'}, {'start': '1209.281', 'end': '1211.520', 'text': 'sent delicate pastries to his study daily'}, {'start': '1211.520', 'end': '1212.221', 'text': 'Concubine Bai'}, {'start': '1212.221', 'end': '1213.222', 'text': 'bold and vivacious'}, {'start': '1213.222', 'end': '1213.623', 'text': 'would'}, {'start': '1213.623', 'end': '1214.274', 'text': 'accidentally'}, {'start': '1214.274', 'end': '1216.578', 'text': 'encounter him during his walks in the garden'}, {'start': '1216.578', 'end': '1218.080', 'text': 'engaging him in witty banter'}, {'start': '1218.080', 'end': '1219.733', 'text': 'I acted as the impartial arbiter'}, {'start': '1219.733', 'end': '1225.442', 'text': 'When Concubine Liu complained that Concubine Bai deliberately practiced archery nearby during her zither sessions'}, {'start': '1225.442', 'end': '1227.095', 'text': 'I calmly assigned them specific'}, {'start': '1227.095', 'end': '1227.345', 'text': 'non'}, {'start': '1227.345', 'end': '1230.200', 'text': 'overlapping hours for their activities in the main garden'}, {'start': '1230.200', 'end': '1232.620', 'text': 'When Concubine Zhang accused Concubine Sun of stealing her prized recipe for almond cookies'}, {'start': '1232.620', 'end': '1233.541', 'text': 'I conducted a quiet investigation'}, {'start': '1233.541', 'end': '1235.672', 'text': 'discovered it was a misunderstanding orchestrated by a mischievous serving girl'}, {'start': '1235.672', 'end': '1237.882', 'text': 'and smoothed things over with diplomatic words and small gifts for both concubines'}, {'start': '1237.882', 'end': '1238.277', 'text': 'Through it all'}, {'start': '1238.277', 'end': '1239.382', 'text': 'I maintained an air of serene detachment'}, {'start': '1239.382', 'end': '1239.724', 'text': 'always fair'}, {'start': '1239.724', 'end': '1240.461', 'text': 'always upholding the rules'}, {'start': '1240.461', 'end': '1242.040', 'text': 'yet subtly ensuring no single faction gained too much power'}, {'start': '1242.040', 'end': '1242.934', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '1242.934', 'end': '1244.103', 'text': 'initially aloof'}, {'start': '1244.103', 'end': '1247.268', 'text': 'began to see her influence wane dramatically'}, {'start': '1247.268', 'end': '1247.818', 'text': 'Yanzhou'}, {'start': '1247.818', 'end': '1251.189', 'text': 'flattered by the constant attention and variety'}, {'start': '1251.189', 'end': '1253.184', 'text': 'visited her less frequently'}, {'start': '1253.184', 'end': '1256.073', 'text': 'The desperation began to show in her eyes'}, {'start': '1256.073', 'end': '1256.761', 'text': 'Meanwhile'}, {'start': '1256.761', 'end': '1258.137', 'text': 'my reputation grew'}, {'start': '1258.137', 'end': '1260.889', 'text': 'The servants saw me as fair and capable'}, {'start': '1260.889', 'end': '1261.921', 'text': 'The concubines'}, {'start': '1261.921', 'end': '1262.884', 'text': 'while rivals'}, {'start': '1262.884', 'end': '1263.916', 'text': 'knew I wouldn'}, {'start': '1263.916', 'end': '1267.700', 'text': 't tolerate malicious schemes and respected my authority'}, {'start': '1267.700', 'end': '1269.031', 'text': 'And most importantly'}, {'start': '1269.031', 'end': '1272.203', 'text': 'the Old Madam received regular reports of a well'}, {'start': '1272.203', 'end': '1272.710', 'text': 'managed'}, {'start': '1272.710', 'end': '1273.661', 'text': 'albeit lively'}, {'start': '1273.661', 'end': '1274.359', 'text': 'household'}, {'start': '1274.359', 'end': '1280.955', 'text': 'with expenses kept in check and the primary goal of potential heirs seemingly being pursued with vigor'}, {'start': '1280.955', 'end': '1283.556', 'text': 'I was the picture of virtuous competence'}, {'start': '1283.556', 'end': '1288.440', 'text': 'quietly consolidating my power while the others scrabbled for fleeting favor'}, {'start': '1288.440', 'end': '1288.866', 'text': 'I didn'}, {'start': '1288.866', 'end': '1289.781', 'text': 't need Yanzhou'}, {'start': '1289.781', 'end': '1290.269', 'text': 's heart'}, {'start': '1290.269', 'end': '1293.012', 'text': 'I was steadily winning control of his world'}, {'start': '1293.012', 'end': '1296.914', 'text': 'The delicate balance I had established was inevitably disrupted'}, {'start': '1296.914', 'end': '1297.706', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '1297.706', 'end': '1299.718', 'text': 'seeing her position erode daily'}, {'start': '1299.718', 'end': '1301.547', 'text': 'finally cast aside her pride'}, {'start': '1301.547', 'end': '1303.925', 'text': 'She began to actively seek Yanzhou out'}, {'start': '1303.925', 'end': '1306.730', 'text': 'employing tactics she had previously scorned'}, {'start': '1306.730', 'end': '1310.022', 'text': 'She waited for him along paths she knew he frequented'}, {'start': '1310.022', 'end': '1312.400', 'text': 'no longer relying on him coming to her'}, {'start': '1312.400', 'end': '1315.543', 'text': 'She rediscovered the art of calculated vulnerability'}, {'start': '1315.543', 'end': '1317.323', 'text': 'appearing tearful and lonely'}, {'start': '1317.323', 'end': '1319.458', 'text': 'reminding him of their shared past'}, {'start': '1319.458', 'end': '1323.847', 'text': 'whispering about how lost she felt amidst the clamor of the new arrivals'}, {'start': '1323.847', 'end': '1324.500', 'text': 'Her beauty'}, {'start': '1324.500', 'end': '1328.237', 'text': 'combined with this performance of fragility and their history'}, {'start': '1328.237', 'end': '1329.304', 'text': 'proved effective'}, {'start': '1329.304', 'end': '1329.779', 'text': 'Yanzhou'}, {'start': '1329.779', 'end': '1331.796', 'text': 'perhaps wearying of the constant'}, {'start': '1331.796', 'end': '1333.931', 'text': 'overt demands of the ten newcomers'}, {'start': '1333.931', 'end': '1336.660', 'text': 'found solace in her seemingly gentle reliance'}, {'start': '1336.660', 'end': '1340.151', 'text': 'He began spending more nights in her courtyard again'}, {'start': '1340.151', 'end': '1342.984', 'text': 'showering her with gifts and reassurances'}, {'start': '1342.984', 'end': '1345.026', 'text': 'Matron Liu’s smugness returned'}, {'start': '1345.026', 'end': '1347.727', 'text': 'albeit slightly more cautious this time'}, {'start': '1347.727', 'end': '1352.206', 'text': 'Just as Cheng Yanran seemed poised to reclaim her dominant position'}, {'start': '1352.206', 'end': '1352.602', 'text': 'fate'}, {'start': '1352.602', 'end': '1355.500', 'text': 'or perhaps the sheer odds I had introduced'}, {'start': '1355.500', 'end': '1356.291', 'text': 'intervened'}, {'start': '1356.291', 'end': '1360.177', 'text': 'News arrived that sent fresh waves through the rear courts'}, {'start': '1360.177', 'end': '1363.340', 'text': 'Concubine Jiang and Concubine Cui were pregnant'}, {'start': '1363.340', 'end': '1365.077', 'text': 'The timing was impeccable'}, {'start': '1365.077', 'end': '1366.146', 'text': 'Two pregnancies'}, {'start': '1366.146', 'end': '1369.286', 'text': 'arising from the pool of ten I had brought in'}, {'start': '1369.286', 'end': '1372.961', 'text': 'served as tangible proof of the wisdom of my strategy'}, {'start': '1372.961', 'end': '1380.645', 'text': 'It immediately shifted the focus from Cheng Yanran’s rekindled romance to the impending arrival of potential heirs'}, {'start': '1380.645', 'end': '1382.984', 'text': 'I seized the opportunity instantly'}, {'start': '1382.984', 'end': '1385.456', 'text': 'This was more than just about babies'}, {'start': '1385.456', 'end': '1392.405', 'text': 'it was about demonstrating my indispensable role in managing the most crucial aspect of the Marquisate'}, {'start': '1392.405', 'end': '1392.940', 'text': 's future'}, {'start': '1392.940', 'end': '1396.446', 'text': 'I immediately took charge of the pregnant concubines'}, {'start': '1396.446', 'end': '1396.843', 'text': 'care'}, {'start': '1396.843', 'end': '1399.159', 'text': 'personally overseeing their diets'}, {'start': '1399.159', 'end': '1400.879', 'text': 'assigning extra servants'}, {'start': '1400.879', 'end': '1402.401', 'text': 'consulting physicians'}, {'start': '1402.401', 'end': '1406.239', 'text': 'and ensuring their courtyards were quiet and comfortable'}, {'start': '1406.239', 'end': '1409.679', 'text': 'My days became a whirlwind of meticulous management'}, {'start': '1409.679', 'end': '1410.804', 'text': 'I reviewed menus'}, {'start': '1410.804', 'end': '1412.591', 'text': 'ensuring proper nutrition'}, {'start': '1412.591', 'end': '1416.759', 'text': 'I mediated minor disputes that arose from the other concubines'}, {'start': '1416.759', 'end': '1419.340', 'text': 'jealousy towards the expectant mothers'}, {'start': '1419.340', 'end': '1421.330', 'text': 'I reported every detail to the Old Madam'}, {'start': '1421.330', 'end': '1422.933', 'text': 'presenting charts of physicians'}, {'start': '1422.933', 'end': '1423.321', 'text': 'visits'}, {'start': '1423.321', 'end': '1424.826', 'text': 'lists of required supplements'}, {'start': '1424.826', 'end': '1426.768', 'text': 'and plans for the nursery preparations'}, {'start': '1426.768', 'end': '1428.128', 'text': 'My performance was flawless'}, {'start': '1428.128', 'end': '1428.856', 'text': 'the concerned'}, {'start': '1428.856', 'end': '1429.536', 'text': 'capable wife'}, {'start': '1429.536', 'end': '1431.964', 'text': 'ensuring the safe passage of the next generation'}, {'start': '1431.964', 'end': '1434.731', 'text': 'I expressed appropriate joy for Concubines Jiang and Cui'}, {'start': '1434.731', 'end': '1439.004', 'text': 'visited them regularly with nourishing soups and bolts of soft fabric for baby clothes'}, {'start': '1439.004', 'end': '1442.840', 'text': 'and treated them with the gentle deference due to vessels carrying the family'}, {'start': '1442.840', 'end': '1443.180', 'text': 's hopes'}, {'start': '1443.180', 'end': '1445.372', 'text': 'The Old Madam observed all this with growing approval'}, {'start': '1445.372', 'end': '1447.564', 'text': 'While Yanzhou might be swayed by Cheng Yanran’s tears'}, {'start': '1447.564', 'end': '1450.365', 'text': 'the Old Madam’s focus remained squarely on tangible results – heirs'}, {'start': '1450.365', 'end': '1454.383', 'text': 'My proactive and efficient handling of the pregnancies contrasted sharply with Cheng Yanran’s self'}, {'start': '1454.383', 'end': '1456.373', 'text': 'absorbed focus on reclaiming Yanzhou’s affection'}, {'start': '1456.373', 'end': '1456.941', 'text': 'One afternoon'}, {'start': '1456.941', 'end': '1461.731', 'text': 'after I presented a particularly detailed report on the nursery renovations and the hiring of experienced wet nurses'}, {'start': '1461.731', 'end': '1462.949', 'text': 'the Old Madam gave me a rare'}, {'start': '1462.949', 'end': '1463.680', 'text': 'almost warm smile'}, {'start': '1463.745', 'end': '1464.267', 'text': 'Shen Yu'}, {'start': '1464.332', 'end': '1464.984', 'text': 'she said'}, {'start': '1464.984', 'end': '1466.680', 'text': 'setting aside the report'}, {'start': '1466.810', 'end': '1469.550', 'text': 'you have managed this situation admirably'}, {'start': '1469.550', 'end': '1471.703', 'text': 'These pregnancies are a blessing'}, {'start': '1471.703', 'end': '1475.421', 'text': 'and your diligence ensures everything proceeds smoothly'}, {'start': '1475.486', 'end': '1476.269', 'text': 'She paused'}, {'start': '1476.269', 'end': '1477.247', 'text': 'her gaze firm'}, {'start': '1477.312', 'end': '1477.834', 'text': 'Frankly'}, {'start': '1477.834', 'end': '1481.748', 'text': 'I have been overseeing the rear court affairs for too long'}, {'start': '1481.748', 'end': '1481.943', 'text': 'It'}, {'start': '1481.943', 'end': '1482.661', 'text': 's a burden'}, {'start': '1482.661', 'end': '1485.140', 'text': 'and my energy is not what it once was'}, {'start': '1485.257', 'end': '1486.779', 'text': 'She looked at me directly'}, {'start': '1486.838', 'end': '1488.126', 'text': 'From this day forward'}, {'start': '1488.126', 'end': '1492.049', 'text': 'I am entrusting the complete management of the rear courts to you'}, {'start': '1492.049', 'end': '1494.391', 'text': 'The household seal for internal affairs'}, {'start': '1494.391', 'end': '1496.089', 'text': 'the allocation of resources'}, {'start': '1496.089', 'end': '1500.539', 'text': 'the discipline of servants and concubines – it is all under your authority'}, {'start': '1500.539', 'end': '1505.400', 'text': 'Report to me only on matters of utmost importance or if you require my intervention'}, {'start': '1505.400', 'end': '1505.880', 'text': 'Otherwise'}, {'start': '1505.880', 'end': '1506.984', 'text': 'I trust your judgment'}, {'start': '1507.080', 'end': '1508.904', 'text': 'It was a monumental transfer of power'}, {'start': '1508.904', 'end': '1510.201', 'text': 'Not just nominal oversight'}, {'start': '1510.201', 'end': '1510.777', 'text': 'but actual'}, {'start': '1510.777', 'end': '1511.641', 'text': 'tangible control'}, {'start': '1511.641', 'end': '1516.634', 'text': 'symbolized by the handing over of the specific seal that governed the inner workings of the Marquisate'}, {'start': '1516.634', 'end': '1517.498', 'text': 's domestic sphere'}, {'start': '1517.546', 'end': '1517.882', 'text': 'Mother'}, {'start': '1517.882', 'end': '1519.371', 'text': 'I… I am honored by your trust'}, {'start': '1519.419', 'end': '1520.043', 'text': 'I stammered'}, {'start': '1520.043', 'end': '1522.540', 'text': 'performing the perfect amount of surprised humility'}, {'start': '1522.594', 'end': '1524.016', 'text': 'I will not disappoint you'}, {'start': '1524.180', 'end': '1525.109', 'text': 'See that you don'}, {'start': '1525.109', 'end': '1525.219', 'text': 't'}, {'start': '1525.273', 'end': '1526.421', 'text': 'she replied briskly'}, {'start': '1526.421', 'end': '1529.155', 'text': 'but her eyes held a look of genuine satisfaction'}, {'start': '1529.155', 'end': '1531.178', 'text': 'As I walked back to my own courtyard'}, {'start': '1531.178', 'end': '1535.114', 'text': 'the weight of the intricately carved jade seal heavy in its silk pouch'}, {'start': '1535.114', 'end': '1536.755', 'text': 'a true smile touched my lips'}, {'start': '1536.755', 'end': '1539.762', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran might have momentarily recaptured Yanzhou'}, {'start': '1539.762', 'end': '1540.910', 'text': 's fleeting attention'}, {'start': '1540.910', 'end': '1543.480', 'text': 'but I had just secured the keys to the kingdom'}, {'start': '1543.480', 'end': '1544.410', 'text': 'The pregnancies'}, {'start': '1544.410', 'end': '1546.737', 'text': 'born from the chaos I had orchestrated'}, {'start': '1546.737', 'end': '1549.936', 'text': 'had become the foundation of my unshakeable authority'}, {'start': '1549.936', 'end': '1552.438', 'text': 'While the others played checkers for a man'}, {'start': '1552.438', 'end': '1552.903', 'text': 's favor'}, {'start': '1552.903', 'end': '1555.986', 'text': 'I was playing chess for control of the entire board'}, {'start': '1555.986', 'end': '1557.033', 'text': 'And I was winning'}, {'start': '1557.033', 'end': '1561.920', 'text': 'The pregnancies of Concubines Jiang and Cui intensified the pressure on Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '1561.920', 'end': '1564.406', 'text': 'While Yanzhou still visited her'}, {'start': '1564.406', 'end': '1565.571', 'text': 'the household'}, {'start': '1565.571', 'end': '1566.193', 'text': 's focus'}, {'start': '1566.193', 'end': '1568.368', 'text': 'particularly the Old Madam'}, {'start': '1568.368', 'end': '1568.524', 'text': 's'}, {'start': '1568.524', 'end': '1573.030', 'text': 'had shifted decisively towards the expectant mothers and'}, {'start': '1573.030', 'end': '1574.118', 'text': 'by extension'}, {'start': '1574.118', 'end': '1578.391', 'text': 'towards me as the capable manager ensuring their well'}, {'start': '1578.391', 'end': '1578.857', 'text': 'being'}, {'start': '1578.857', 'end': '1584.529', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran knew that securing Yanzhou’s affection was no longer enough'}, {'start': '1584.529', 'end': '1586.937', 'text': 'she needed to produce an heir'}, {'start': '1586.937', 'end': '1588.336', 'text': 'preferably a son'}, {'start': '1588.336', 'end': '1592.920', 'text': 'to truly solidify her standing and perhaps even eclipse me'}, {'start': '1592.920', 'end': '1594.292', 'text': 'Desperation began to gnaw at her'}, {'start': '1594.292', 'end': '1595.789', 'text': 'She became obsessed with conceiving'}, {'start': '1595.789', 'end': '1597.702', 'text': 'her anxiety mounting with each passing month'}, {'start': '1597.702', 'end': '1599.699', 'text': 'It was during this time that whispers of potent'}, {'start': '1599.699', 'end': '1600.281', 'text': 'albeit risky'}, {'start': '1600.281', 'end': '1601.861', 'text': 'fertility remedies began circulating'}, {'start': '1601.861', 'end': '1604.066', 'text': 'likely fueled by her increasingly frantic inquiries'}, {'start': '1604.066', 'end': '1604.523', 'text': 'Matron Liu'}, {'start': '1604.523', 'end': '1605.979', 'text': 'eager to see her mistress triumph'}, {'start': '1605.979', 'end': '1606.852', 'text': 'procured a powerful'}, {'start': '1606.852', 'end': '1609.140', 'text': 'clandestine medication rumored to guarantee conception'}, {'start': '1609.140', 'end': '1610.255', 'text': 'Ignoring the potential dangers'}, {'start': '1610.255', 'end': '1612.090', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran began taking the concoction secretly'}, {'start': '1612.090', 'end': '1612.594', 'text': 'And it worked'}, {'start': '1612.594', 'end': '1613.241', 'text': 'Within two months'}, {'start': '1613.241', 'end': '1614.249', 'text': 'she was confirmed pregnant'}, {'start': '1614.249', 'end': '1615.976', 'text': 'news she delivered to Yanzhou with tearful joy'}, {'start': '1615.976', 'end': '1618.782', 'text': 'framing it as a testament to their profound connection finally bearing fruit'}, {'start': '1618.782', 'end': '1619.466', 'text': 'Yanzhou was elated'}, {'start': '1619.466', 'end': '1620.833', 'text': 'momentarily forgetting Jiang and Cui'}, {'start': '1620.833', 'end': '1623.820', 'text': 'caught up in the romance of his beloved white moonlight finally carrying his child'}, {'start': '1623.820', 'end': '1625.426', 'text': 'Her pregnancy progressed'}, {'start': '1625.426', 'end': '1628.317', 'text': 'marked by an almost feverish possessiveness'}, {'start': '1628.317', 'end': '1630.374', 'text': 'She demanded constant attention'}, {'start': '1630.374', 'end': '1631.530', 'text': 'the finest foods'}, {'start': '1631.530', 'end': '1633.394', 'text': 'the most luxurious comforts'}, {'start': '1633.394', 'end': '1636.928', 'text': 'believing this child would be her ultimate trump card'}, {'start': '1636.928', 'end': '1637.056', 'text': 'I'}, {'start': '1637.056', 'end': '1637.763', 'text': 'of course'}, {'start': '1637.763', 'end': '1643.032', 'text': 'extended the same meticulous care and oversight to her as I did to Jiang and Cui'}, {'start': '1643.032', 'end': '1645.860', 'text': 'maintaining my image of impartial diligence'}, {'start': '1645.860', 'end': '1647.676', 'text': 'If she wanted special treatment'}, {'start': '1647.676', 'end': '1648.641', 'text': 'she received it'}, {'start': '1648.641', 'end': '1652.842', 'text': 'documented carefully as per the instructions for all pregnant concubines'}, {'start': '1652.842', 'end': '1654.715', 'text': 'The births arrived in succession'}, {'start': '1654.715', 'end': '1657.327', 'text': 'Concubine Jiang delivered a healthy baby girl'}, {'start': '1657.327', 'end': '1658.065', 'text': 'A week later'}, {'start': '1658.065', 'end': '1661.016', 'text': 'Concubine Cui also gave birth to a robust daughter'}, {'start': '1661.016', 'end': '1662.095', 'text': 'Both were welcomed'}, {'start': '1662.095', 'end': '1668.340', 'text': 'though a subtle air of disappointment lingered – the Marquisate still lacked a male heir from this generation'}, {'start': '1668.340', 'end': '1669.528', 'text': 'Then came Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '1669.528', 'end': '1670.251', 'text': 's confinement'}, {'start': '1670.251', 'end': '1671.543', 'text': 'It was a difficult labor'}, {'start': '1671.543', 'end': '1672.679', 'text': 'fraught with tension'}, {'start': '1672.679', 'end': '1674.281', 'text': 'When the child finally arrived'}, {'start': '1674.281', 'end': '1676.760', 'text': 'a chilling silence fell over the delivery room'}, {'start': '1676.760', 'end': '1679.085', 'text': 'broken only by the midwife’s horrified gasp'}, {'start': '1679.085', 'end': '1679.550', 'text': 'The baby'}, {'start': '1679.550', 'end': '1679.912', 'text': 'a boy'}, {'start': '1679.912', 'end': '1681.203', 'text': 'was tragically deformed'}, {'start': '1681.203', 'end': '1682.443', 'text': 'He possessed three legs'}, {'start': '1682.443', 'end': '1685.440', 'text': 'one grotesquely twisted appendage protruding from his hip'}, {'start': '1685.440', 'end': '1687.484', 'text': 'News travelled swiftly to Yanzhou'}, {'start': '1687.484', 'end': '1689.589', 'text': 'who was waiting anxiously outside'}, {'start': '1689.589', 'end': '1691.212', 'text': 'When informed of the child'}, {'start': '1691.212', 'end': '1691.934', 'text': 's condition'}, {'start': '1691.934', 'end': '1693.317', 'text': 'his face turned ashen'}, {'start': '1693.317', 'end': '1696.564', 'text': 'then hardened into a mask of cold fury and revulsion'}, {'start': '1696.564', 'end': '1699.631', 'text': 'This was not the triumphant heir he had envisioned'}, {'start': '1699.631', 'end': '1701.615', 'text': 'this was a monstrous aberration'}, {'start': '1701.615', 'end': '1703.720', 'text': 'an embarrassment to the Marquisate'}, {'start': '1703.720', 'end': '1706.216', 'text': 'His orders were swift and brutal'}, {'start': '1706.216', 'end': '1708.637', 'text': 'The child was to be… dealt with'}, {'start': '1708.637', 'end': '1709.242', 'text': 'Quietly'}, {'start': '1709.242', 'end': '1714.991', 'text': 'No one outside the essential staff was to know the details of its deformity'}, {'start': '1714.991', 'end': '1720.362', 'text': 'It was to be registered as stillborn due to complications during birth'}, {'start': '1720.362', 'end': '1721.269', 'text': 'The midwife'}, {'start': '1721.269', 'end': '1725.279', 'text': 'under immense pressure and fearing for her own life'}, {'start': '1725.279', 'end': '1725.960', 'text': 'complied'}, {'start': '1725.960', 'end': '1727.666', 'text': 'The deformed infant disappeared'}, {'start': '1727.666', 'end': '1728.253', 'text': 'his brief'}, {'start': '1728.253', 'end': '1732.253', 'text': 'tragic existence erased before it could become a stain on the family name'}, {'start': '1732.253', 'end': '1732.946', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '1732.946', 'end': '1734.973', 'text': 'exhausted and weak from the delivery'}, {'start': '1734.973', 'end': '1739.506', 'text': 'was initially told the baby was simply too frail and had passed shortly after birth'}, {'start': '1739.506', 'end': '1740.146', 'text': 'She grieved'}, {'start': '1740.146', 'end': '1742.440', 'text': 'but clung to the hope of conceiving again'}, {'start': '1742.440', 'end': '1745.000', 'text': 'believing she had at least proven her fertility'}, {'start': '1745.000', 'end': '1745.464', 'text': 'However'}, {'start': '1745.464', 'end': '1746.102', 'text': 'the truth'}, {'start': '1746.102', 'end': '1749.237', 'text': 'as it often does in households full of eyes and ears'}, {'start': '1749.237', 'end': '1750.571', 'text': 'eventually seeped out'}, {'start': '1750.571', 'end': '1753.764', 'text': 'Perhaps a careless word from a traumatized junior maid'}, {'start': '1753.764', 'end': '1757.885', 'text': 'perhaps a hushed conversation overheard by Matron Liu who then couldn'}, {'start': '1757.885', 'end': '1758.987', 'text': 't bear the silence'}, {'start': '1758.987', 'end': '1762.122', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran learned that her son had been born alive'}, {'start': '1762.122', 'end': '1762.934', 'text': 'but deformed'}, {'start': '1762.934', 'end': '1765.778', 'text': 'and that Yanzhou himself had ordered the infant'}, {'start': '1765.778', 'end': '1767.520', 'text': 's disposal like so much refuse'}, {'start': '1767.520', 'end': '1770.116', 'text': 'The revelation shattered her completely'}, {'start': '1770.116', 'end': '1771.284', 'text': 'The man she loved'}, {'start': '1771.284', 'end': '1772.907', 'text': 'the father of her child'}, {'start': '1772.907', 'end': '1777.126', 'text': 'had not mourned with her but had instead coldly eliminated the'}, {'start': '1777.126', 'end': '1777.645', 'text': 'problem'}, {'start': '1777.645', 'end': '1779.138', 'text': 'her body had produced'}, {'start': '1779.138', 'end': '1780.436', 'text': 'The fertility drugs'}, {'start': '1780.436', 'end': '1781.734', 'text': 'the desperate hope'}, {'start': '1781.734', 'end': '1785.693', 'text': 'the difficult pregnancy – all had culminated in this horror'}, {'start': '1785.693', 'end': '1788.420', 'text': 'compounded by Yanzhou’s callous rejection'}, {'start': '1788.420', 'end': '1788.898', 'text': 'Her mind'}, {'start': '1788.898', 'end': '1793.626', 'text': 'already fragile from months of anxiety and the physical toll of the pregnancy and birth'}, {'start': '1793.626', 'end': '1794.051', 'text': 'couldn'}, {'start': '1794.051', 'end': '1795.219', 'text': 't withstand the shock'}, {'start': '1795.219', 'end': '1795.963', 'text': 'She collapsed'}, {'start': '1795.963', 'end': '1797.079', 'text': 'falling into a deep'}, {'start': '1797.079', 'end': '1798.035', 'text': 'feverish illness'}, {'start': '1798.035', 'end': '1800.904', 'text': 'punctuated by bouts of weeping and incoherent raving'}, {'start': '1800.904', 'end': '1801.329', 'text': 'Yanzhou'}, {'start': '1801.329', 'end': '1804.250', 'text': 'repulsed by the entire situation – the deformed child'}, {'start': '1804.250', 'end': '1804.994', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '1804.994', 'end': '1806.216', 'text': 's subsequent breakdown'}, {'start': '1806.216', 'end': '1807.491', 'text': 'the whispers he couldn'}, {'start': '1807.491', 'end': '1810.360', 'text': 't entirely suppress – avoided her courtyard altogether'}, {'start': '1810.360', 'end': '1813.164', 'text': 'His fleeting affection curdled into distaste'}, {'start': '1813.164', 'end': '1814.846', 'text': 'She was left largely alone'}, {'start': '1814.846', 'end': '1816.591', 'text': 'tended by a skeleton staff'}, {'start': '1816.591', 'end': '1817.775', 'text': 'her beauty fading'}, {'start': '1817.775', 'end': '1818.959', 'text': 'her spirit broken'}, {'start': '1818.959', 'end': '1819.645', 'text': 'Matron Liu'}, {'start': '1819.645', 'end': '1821.078', 'text': 'disgraced and fearful'}, {'start': '1821.078', 'end': '1822.823', 'text': 'could offer little comfort'}, {'start': '1822.823', 'end': '1823.633', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '1823.633', 'end': '1824.256', 'text': 'the once'}, {'start': '1824.256', 'end': '1825.876', 'text': 'cherished white moonlight'}, {'start': '1825.876', 'end': '1827.933', 'text': 'was now a fading ghost in truth'}, {'start': '1827.933', 'end': '1834.040', 'text': 'haunted by the son she never held and abandoned by the man for whom she had sacrificed everything'}, {'start': '1834.040', 'end': '1835.483', 'text': 'Her downfall was absolute'}, {'start': '1835.483', 'end': '1838.037', 'text': 'a tragic consequence of her desperate gamble'}, {'start': '1838.037', 'end': '1838.814', 'text': 'And I watched'}, {'start': '1838.814', 'end': '1841.424', 'text': 'maintaining the serene order of the household'}, {'start': '1841.424', 'end': '1842.534', 'text': 'my power untouched'}, {'start': '1842.534', 'end': '1844.089', 'text': 'my path clearing before me'}, {'start': '1844.089', 'end': '1846.421', 'text': 'With Cheng Yanran effectively neutralized'}, {'start': '1846.421', 'end': '1849.364', 'text': 'relegated to the shadowed corners of the Marquisate'}, {'start': '1849.364', 'end': '1852.640', 'text': 'a strange sort of equilibrium settled over the rear courts'}, {'start': '1852.640', 'end': '1856.094', 'text': 'The remaining concubines continued their jostling for favor'}, {'start': '1856.094', 'end': '1857.590', 'text': 'but without Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '1857.590', 'end': '1858.626', 'text': 's intense rivalry'}, {'start': '1858.626', 'end': '1860.987', 'text': 'the overall atmosphere was less charged'}, {'start': '1860.987', 'end': '1861.447', 'text': 'Yanzhou'}, {'start': '1861.447', 'end': '1866.859', 'text': 'seemingly eager to forget the unpleasantness surrounding the deformed child and Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '1866.859', 'end': '1867.492', 'text': 's collapse'}, {'start': '1867.492', 'end': '1872.040', 'text': 'threw himself into the pleasures offered by the other women with renewed vigor'}, {'start': '1872.040', 'end': '1873.109', 'text': 'He indulged heavily'}, {'start': '1873.109', 'end': '1874.605', 'text': 'spending lavishly on gifts'}, {'start': '1874.605', 'end': '1875.461', 'text': 'attending late'}, {'start': '1875.461', 'end': '1878.507', 'text': 'night banquets arranged by the more ambitious concubines'}, {'start': '1878.507', 'end': '1881.020', 'text': 'and generally burning the candle at both ends'}, {'start': '1881.020', 'end': '1881.447', 'text': 'It wasn'}, {'start': '1881.447', 'end': '1884.548', 'text': 't long before the effects of this lifestyle began to show'}, {'start': '1884.548', 'end': '1885.991', 'text': 'His complexion grew sallow'}, {'start': '1885.991', 'end': '1888.129', 'text': 'dark circles appeared beneath his eyes'}, {'start': '1888.129', 'end': '1890.053', 'text': 'and he often complained of fatigue'}, {'start': '1890.053', 'end': '1892.780', 'text': 'though he waved away any suggestions of moderation'}, {'start': '1892.780', 'end': '1895.926', 'text': 'He attributed it to the stresses of his position'}, {'start': '1895.926', 'end': '1897.981', 'text': 'the demands of his social life'}, {'start': '1897.981', 'end': '1899.201', 'text': 'Seeing his decline'}, {'start': '1899.201', 'end': '1900.293', 'text': 'I began my next'}, {'start': '1900.293', 'end': '1901.834', 'text': 'most delicate maneuver'}, {'start': '1901.834', 'end': '1904.853', 'text': 'I approached him with an air of wifely concern'}, {'start': '1904.853', 'end': '1906.972', 'text': 'my expression etched with worry'}, {'start': '1907.036', 'end': '1907.550', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '1907.614', 'end': '1909.348', 'text': 'I said softly one evening'}, {'start': '1909.348', 'end': '1911.853', 'text': 'as I helped him remove his outer robe'}, {'start': '1911.853', 'end': '1916.220', 'text': 'catching the heavy scent of wine and perfume clinging to the fabric'}, {'start': '1916.280', 'end': '1918.586', 'text': 'You have been looking so tired lately'}, {'start': '1918.586', 'end': '1920.164', 'text': 'Your duties are demanding'}, {'start': '1920.164', 'end': '1924.594', 'text': 'and… perhaps the vitality of the household requires much of your energy'}, {'start': '1924.654', 'end': '1926.353', 'text': 'I chose my words carefully'}, {'start': '1926.414', 'end': '1927.992', 'text': 'I worry about your health'}, {'start': '1927.992', 'end': '1928.416', 'text': 'Please'}, {'start': '1928.416', 'end': '1931.147', 'text': 'allow me to prepare a special tonic for you'}, {'start': '1931.147', 'end': '1932.421', 'text': 'An old family recipe'}, {'start': '1932.421', 'end': '1935.820', 'text': 'excellent for restoring vigor and replenishing strength'}, {'start': '1935.820', 'end': '1938.691', 'text': 'Consider it my humble contribution to your well'}, {'start': '1938.691', 'end': '1939.050', 'text': 'being'}, {'start': '1939.169', 'end': '1940.126', 'text': 'He looked at me'}, {'start': '1940.126', 'end': '1942.220', 'text': 'touched by my apparent solicitude'}, {'start': '1942.220', 'end': '1942.938', 'text': 'In his self'}, {'start': '1942.938', 'end': '1943.596', 'text': 'absorption'}, {'start': '1943.596', 'end': '1945.630', 'text': 'he likely saw it as genuine care'}, {'start': '1945.630', 'end': '1951.013', 'text': 'perhaps even a sign that I still held affection for him despite his blatant philandering'}, {'start': '1951.073', 'end': '1952.629', 'text': 'That is thoughtful of you'}, {'start': '1952.629', 'end': '1952.868', 'text': 'Yu'}, {'start': '1952.868', 'end': '1953.047', 'text': 'er'}, {'start': '1953.107', 'end': '1953.885', 'text': 'he murmured'}, {'start': '1953.885', 'end': '1955.620', 'text': 'patting my hand distractedly'}, {'start': '1955.670', 'end': '1955.870', 'text': 'Yes'}, {'start': '1955.870', 'end': '1957.726', 'text': 'perhaps a good tonic is what I need'}, {'start': '1957.826', 'end': '1959.381', 'text': 'Thus began the regimen of the'}, {'start': '1959.381', 'end': '1960.484', 'text': 'Great Nourishing Soup'}, {'start': '1960.534', 'end': '1960.885', 'text': 'Daily'}, {'start': '1960.885', 'end': '1963.443', 'text': 'I personally oversaw the preparation of a complex'}, {'start': '1963.443', 'end': '1963.744', 'text': 'slow'}, {'start': '1963.744', 'end': '1965.499', 'text': 'simmered broth made with expensive'}, {'start': '1965.499', 'end': '1967.857', 'text': 'seemingly beneficial ingredients – rare herbs'}, {'start': '1967.857', 'end': '1968.809', 'text': 'prized game birds'}, {'start': '1968.809', 'end': '1971.518', 'text': 'elements known in traditional medicine for boosting'}, {'start': '1971.518', 'end': '1972.120', 'text': "yang' energy"}, {'start': '1972.120', 'end': '1973.946', 'text': 'It looked and smelled like the epitome of health'}, {'start': '1973.946', 'end': '1975.809', 'text': 'a potent restorative brew fit for a Marquis heir'}, {'start': '1975.809', 'end': '1976.480', 'text': 'What Yanzhou didn'}, {'start': '1976.480', 'end': '1980.132', 'text': 't know was that hidden within the complex blend were specific ingredients – harmless on their own'}, {'start': '1980.132', 'end': '1983.076', 'text': 'even beneficial in isolation – but known in obscure medicinal texts to slowly'}, {'start': '1983.076', 'end': '1984.976', 'text': 'subtly weaken the constitution over prolonged use'}, {'start': '1984.976', 'end': '1986.840', 'text': 'especially when combined with certain other foods'}, {'start': '1986.840', 'end': '1987.626', 'text': 'Simultaneously'}, {'start': '1987.626', 'end': '1991.088', 'text': 'I began guiding the dietary choices in the rest of the household'}, {'start': '1991.088', 'end': '1995.336', 'text': 'particularly the meals served by the concubines Yanzhou visited most frequently'}, {'start': '1995.336', 'end': '1997.120', 'text': 'Under the guise of balancing the'}, {'start': '1997.120', 'end': '1997.382', 'text': 'heat'}, {'start': '1997.382', 'end': '1998.641', 'text': 'of the nourishing soup'}, {'start': '1998.641', 'end': '2002.889', 'text': 'I instructed the kitchens serving those concubines to prepare dishes that were'}, {'start': '2002.889', 'end': '2003.151', 'text': 'cool'}, {'start': '2003.151', 'end': '2003.728', 'text': 'in nature'}, {'start': '2003.728', 'end': '2007.190', 'text': 'or contained ingredients known to mildly conflict with the tonic'}, {'start': '2007.190', 'end': '2007.820', 'text': 's properties'}, {'start': '2007.820', 'end': '2010.326', 'text': 'I’d casually remark to Concubine Li'}, {'start': '2010.326', 'end': '2011.996', 'text': 'known for her ambition'}, {'start': '2012.136', 'end': '2016.173', 'text': 'Husband finds the nourishing soup I prepare quite warming'}, {'start': '2016.173', 'end': '2023.761', 'text': 'perhaps balance it with some cooling mung bean soup or a refreshing pear dessert when he visits you tonight'}, {'start': '2023.761', 'end': '2025.780', 'text': 'Harmony in all things is key'}, {'start': '2025.850', 'end': '2027.173', 'text': 'To Concubine Wang'}, {'start': '2027.173', 'end': '2028.356', 'text': 'I might suggest'}, {'start': '2028.495', 'end': '2031.280', 'text': 'Since Husband is taking that rich tonic'}, {'start': '2031.280', 'end': '2033.160', 'text': 'lighter fare might be best'}, {'start': '2033.160', 'end': '2034.697', 'text': 'Steamed fish with radishes'}, {'start': '2034.697', 'end': '2035.209', 'text': 'perhaps'}, {'start': '2035.323', 'end': '2036.177', 'text': 'Each food item'}, {'start': '2036.177', 'end': '2037.145', 'text': 'each suggestion'}, {'start': '2037.145', 'end': '2038.626', 'text': 'was innocuous on its own'}, {'start': '2038.626', 'end': '2039.764', 'text': 'A cooling soup here'}, {'start': '2039.764', 'end': '2041.017', 'text': 'some shellfish there'}, {'start': '2041.017', 'end': '2042.611', 'text': 'a particular type of fruit'}, {'start': '2042.611', 'end': '2043.579', 'text': 'But cumulatively'}, {'start': '2043.579', 'end': '2046.768', 'text': 'combined with the hidden properties of the daily tonic'}, {'start': '2046.768', 'end': '2048.077', 'text': 'they created a subtle'}, {'start': '2048.077', 'end': '2050.184', 'text': 'internal conflict within his system'}, {'start': '2050.184', 'end': '2050.639', 'text': 'It wasn'}, {'start': '2050.639', 'end': '2052.632', 'text': 't poison in the conventional sense'}, {'start': '2052.632', 'end': '2053.486', 'text': 'it was a slow'}, {'start': '2053.486', 'end': '2055.308', 'text': 'insidious process of depletion'}, {'start': '2055.308', 'end': '2057.700', 'text': 'masked as loving care and dietary balance'}, {'start': '2057.700', 'end': '2059.227', 'text': 'His body was being gently'}, {'start': '2059.227', 'end': '2061.636', 'text': 'persistently steered towards exhaustion'}, {'start': '2061.636', 'end': '2062.282', 'text': 'As Yanzhou'}, {'start': '2062.282', 'end': '2063.869', 'text': 's strength gradually waned'}, {'start': '2063.869', 'end': '2065.161', 'text': 'his reliance on the'}, {'start': '2065.161', 'end': '2066.454', 'text': 'Great Nourishing Soup'}, {'start': '2066.454', 'end': '2067.394', 'text': 'only increased'}, {'start': '2067.394', 'end': '2068.921', 'text': 'creating a vicious cycle'}, {'start': '2068.921', 'end': '2069.744', 'text': 'He felt tired'}, {'start': '2069.744', 'end': '2072.270', 'text': 'so he drank the soup meant to restore him'}, {'start': '2072.270', 'end': '2074.856', 'text': 'unaware it was contributing to the problem'}, {'start': '2074.856', 'end': '2078.440', 'text': 'especially alongside the conflicting foods he consumed later'}, {'start': '2078.440', 'end': '2078.955', 'text': 'Meanwhile'}, {'start': '2078.955', 'end': '2081.429', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran remained a ghost in her courtyard'}, {'start': '2081.429', 'end': '2083.182', 'text': 'consumed by grief and bitterness'}, {'start': '2083.182', 'end': '2084.161', 'text': 'She rarely emerged'}, {'start': '2084.161', 'end': '2086.635', 'text': 'her mind fixated on her lost child and Yanzhou'}, {'start': '2086.635', 'end': '2087.202', 'text': 's betrayal'}, {'start': '2087.202', 'end': '2090.347', 'text': 'Seeing her pathetic state gave me the final piece of my plan'}, {'start': '2090.347', 'end': '2091.120', 'text': 'She was broken'}, {'start': '2091.120', 'end': '2091.687', 'text': 'desperate'}, {'start': '2091.687', 'end': '2094.934', 'text': 'and filled with a simmering rage directed not just at Yanzhou'}, {'start': '2094.934', 'end': '2095.914', 'text': 'but at the system'}, {'start': '2095.914', 'end': '2096.532', 'text': 'the family'}, {'start': '2096.532', 'end': '2098.440', 'text': 'that had discarded her and her child'}, {'start': '2098.440', 'end': '2099.547', 'text': 'She was malleable'}, {'start': '2099.547', 'end': '2100.838', 'text': 'I began visiting her'}, {'start': '2100.838', 'end': '2102.991', 'text': 'adopting an air of quiet sympathy'}, {'start': '2102.991', 'end': '2104.775', 'text': 'I brought her small comforts'}, {'start': '2104.775', 'end': '2107.727', 'text': 'listened patiently to her fragmented ramblings'}, {'start': '2107.727', 'end': '2111.541', 'text': 'and subtly steered her bitterness towards a different target'}, {'start': '2111.603', 'end': '2112.402', 'text': 'It is tragic'}, {'start': '2112.402', 'end': '2113.263', 'text': 'Sister Cheng'}, {'start': '2113.325', 'end': '2114.309', 'text': 'I would murmur'}, {'start': '2114.309', 'end': '2116.646', 'text': 'placing a comforting hand on her arm'}, {'start': '2116.708', 'end': '2118.000', 'text': 'To suffer such a loss'}, {'start': '2118.000', 'end': '2120.909', 'text': 'And to think… the Old Master and Old Madam'}, {'start': '2120.909', 'end': '2122.330', 'text': 'they hold such sway'}, {'start': '2122.330', 'end': '2123.616', 'text': 'Their expectations'}, {'start': '2123.616', 'end': '2126.255', 'text': 'their rigid views… they shape Husband'}, {'start': '2126.255', 'end': '2127.067', 'text': 's decisions'}, {'start': '2127.067', 'end': '2127.947', 'text': 'do they not'}, {'start': '2127.947', 'end': '2131.262', 'text': 'They value lineage and reputation above all else'}, {'start': '2131.262', 'end': '2133.360', 'text': 'Perhaps… perhaps if they weren'}, {'start': '2133.360', 'end': '2133.834', 'text': 't here'}, {'start': '2133.834', 'end': '2136.337', 'text': 'Husband might have felt differently'}, {'start': '2136.337', 'end': '2139.180', 'text': 'Might have been allowed to grieve with you'}, {'start': '2139.287', 'end': '2140.899', 'text': 'I planted the seeds carefully'}, {'start': '2140.899', 'end': '2143.477', 'text': 'never making a direct accusation or suggestion'}, {'start': '2143.477', 'end': '2145.841', 'text': 'but merely highlighting the Old Hou couple'}, {'start': '2145.841', 'end': '2146.485', 'text': 's influence'}, {'start': '2146.485', 'end': '2147.398', 'text': 'their authority'}, {'start': '2147.398', 'end': '2149.547', 'text': 'linking it implicitly to her suffering'}, {'start': '2149.547', 'end': '2150.890', 'text': 'I played on her paranoia'}, {'start': '2150.890', 'end': '2154.006', 'text': 'her feeling of being wronged by the entire establishment'}, {'start': '2154.006', 'end': '2154.865', 'text': 'Fueled by grief'}, {'start': '2154.865', 'end': '2155.349', 'text': 'madness'}, {'start': '2155.349', 'end': '2156.960', 'text': 'and my insidious suggestions'}, {'start': '2156.960', 'end': '2157.712', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '2157.712', 'end': '2159.646', 'text': 's despair festered into a desperate'}, {'start': '2159.646', 'end': '2160.560', 'text': 'vengeful resolve'}, {'start': '2160.560', 'end': '2167.087', 'text': 'She fixated on the idea that the Old Marquis and Old Madam were the root cause of her misery'}, {'start': '2167.087', 'end': '2169.614', 'text': 'the ultimate architects of her son'}, {'start': '2169.614', 'end': '2171.789', 'text': 's fate and her own abandonment'}, {'start': '2171.789', 'end': '2173.053', 'text': 'If they were gone'}, {'start': '2173.053', 'end': '2176.141', 'text': 'perhaps… perhaps things could be different'}, {'start': '2176.141', 'end': '2176.913', 'text': 'Or perhaps'}, {'start': '2176.913', 'end': '2183.160', 'text': 'it was simply about lashing out at the highest symbols of the power that had crushed her'}, {'start': '2183.160', 'end': '2184.249', 'text': 'Driven to the edge'}, {'start': '2184.249', 'end': '2185.454', 'text': 'she obtained a fast'}, {'start': '2185.454', 'end': '2186.601', 'text': 'acting poison – how'}, {'start': '2186.601', 'end': '2187.633', 'text': 'I never inquired'}, {'start': '2187.633', 'end': '2190.271', 'text': 'though desperate people find desperate means'}, {'start': '2190.271', 'end': '2191.648', 'text': 'During a family banquet'}, {'start': '2191.648', 'end': '2193.541', 'text': 'seizing a moment of distraction'}, {'start': '2193.541', 'end': '2198.301', 'text': 'she managed to poison the wine goblets intended for the Old Marquis and Old Madam'}, {'start': '2198.301', 'end': '2199.620', 'text': 'The attempt was clumsy'}, {'start': '2199.620', 'end': '2201.800', 'text': 'born of desperation rather than skill'}, {'start': '2201.800', 'end': '2206.521', 'text': 'A vigilant servant noticed the strange residue in the cups before they could be drunk'}, {'start': '2206.521', 'end': '2207.290', 'text': 'Chaos erupted'}, {'start': '2207.290', 'end': '2209.596', 'text': 'An investigation was immediately launched'}, {'start': '2209.596', 'end': '2210.639', 'text': 'Given Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '2210.639', 'end': '2212.122', 'text': 's known mental instability'}, {'start': '2212.122', 'end': '2212.945', 'text': 'her isolation'}, {'start': '2212.945', 'end': '2219.095', 'text': 'and her simmering resentment – carefully amplified by my sympathetic visits – suspicion fell squarely upon her'}, {'start': '2219.095', 'end': '2222.060', 'text': 'Traces of the poison were found hidden in her chambers'}, {'start': '2222.060', 'end': '2228.814', 'text': 'Her fragmented denials and wild accusations only served to confirm her guilt in the eyes of the terrified household'}, {'start': '2228.814', 'end': '2229.920', 'text': 'There was no trial'}, {'start': '2229.920', 'end': '2231.376', 'text': 'no lengthy deliberation'}, {'start': '2231.376', 'end': '2234.637', 'text': 'She had attempted to murder the heads of the Marquisate'}, {'start': '2234.637', 'end': '2235.801', 'text': 'Her fate was sealed'}, {'start': '2235.801', 'end': '2238.538', 'text': 'She was swiftly handed over to the authorities'}, {'start': '2238.538', 'end': '2243.080', 'text': 'and the official verdict was execution by poisoned wine – a grimly ironic end'}, {'start': '2243.080', 'end': '2244.732', 'text': 'Her death caused a stir'}, {'start': '2244.732', 'end': '2250.723', 'text': 'but it was quickly overshadowed by relief that the Old Master and Madam were unharmed'}, {'start': '2250.723', 'end': '2253.754', 'text': 'and by the general consensus that the poor'}, {'start': '2253.754', 'end': '2257.197', 'text': 'mad Noble Consort had finally met her tragic end'}, {'start': '2257.197', 'end': '2259.056', 'text': 'No one suspected the quiet'}, {'start': '2259.056', 'end': '2261.880', 'text': 'dutiful wife who had offered her comfort'}, {'start': '2261.880', 'end': '2263.072', 'text': 'No one saw the puppeteer'}, {'start': '2263.072', 'end': '2263.549', 'text': 's strings'}, {'start': '2263.549', 'end': '2264.169', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '2264.169', 'end': '2265.170', 'text': 'the white moonlight'}, {'start': '2265.170', 'end': '2266.029', 'text': 'became the final'}, {'start': '2266.029', 'end': '2268.509', 'text': 'necessary sacrifice on my path to absolute control'}, {'start': '2268.509', 'end': '2270.703', 'text': 'The failed poisoning attempt and Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '2270.703', 'end': '2273.326', 'text': 's subsequent execution cast a pall over the Marquisate'}, {'start': '2273.326', 'end': '2275.806', 'text': 'but it also served to further solidify my position'}, {'start': '2275.806', 'end': '2277.141', 'text': 'In the face of such turmoil'}, {'start': '2277.141', 'end': '2281.720', 'text': 'my calm efficiency and unwavering management of the household were seen as pillars of stability'}, {'start': '2281.720', 'end': '2282.641', 'text': 'The Old Madam'}, {'start': '2282.641', 'end': '2286.523', 'text': 'shaken by the attempt on her life and that of her husband'}, {'start': '2286.523', 'end': '2288.957', 'text': 'leaned on me more heavily than ever'}, {'start': '2288.957', 'end': '2290.865', 'text': 'grateful for my steady hand'}, {'start': '2290.865', 'end': '2291.523', 'text': 'Meanwhile'}, {'start': '2291.523', 'end': '2292.313', 'text': 'Xu Yanzhou'}, {'start': '2292.313', 'end': '2293.760', 'text': 's decline accelerated'}, {'start': '2293.760', 'end': '2295.471', 'text': 'The shock of Cheng Yanran'}, {'start': '2295.471', 'end': '2295.997', 'text': 's final'}, {'start': '2295.997', 'end': '2296.984', 'text': 'desperate act'}, {'start': '2296.984', 'end': '2298.695', 'text': 'coupled with the ongoing'}, {'start': '2298.695', 'end': '2300.800', 'text': 'subtle depletion caused by my'}, {'start': '2300.800', 'end': '2301.129', 'text': 'care'}, {'start': '2301.195', 'end': '2302.380', 'text': 'took a heavy toll'}, {'start': '2302.380', 'end': '2303.953', 'text': 'He became perpetually weary'}, {'start': '2303.953', 'end': '2306.650', 'text': 'his interest in the remaining concubines waned'}, {'start': '2306.650', 'end': '2309.908', 'text': 'and he spent more and more time confined to his chambers'}, {'start': '2309.908', 'end': '2310.695', 'text': 'sipping the'}, {'start': '2310.695', 'end': '2311.931', 'text': 'Great Nourishing Soup'}, {'start': '2311.931', 'end': '2314.740', 'text': 'that he believed was his only source of strength'}, {'start': '2314.740', 'end': '2316.314', 'text': 'His physicians were baffled'}, {'start': '2316.314', 'end': '2318.112', 'text': 'They diagnosed him with severe'}, {'start': '2318.112', 'end': '2318.280', 'text': 'qi'}, {'start': '2318.280', 'end': '2318.954', 'text': 'deficiency'}, {'start': '2318.954', 'end': '2320.640', 'text': 'exhaustion from overexertion'}, {'start': '2320.640', 'end': '2325.079', 'text': 'a depletion of vital essence – all plausible explanations given his lifestyle'}, {'start': '2325.079', 'end': '2326.821', 'text': 'yet none pinpointing the true'}, {'start': '2326.821', 'end': '2327.720', 'text': 'insidious cause'}, {'start': '2327.720', 'end': '2329.146', 'text': 'They prescribed more tonics'}, {'start': '2329.146', 'end': '2329.706', 'text': 'more rest'}, {'start': '2329.706', 'end': '2331.591', 'text': 'inadvertently playing into my hands'}, {'start': '2331.591', 'end': '2331.998', 'text': 'Finally'}, {'start': '2331.998', 'end': '2334.647', 'text': 'the day came when he could no longer leave his bed'}, {'start': '2334.647', 'end': '2335.310', 'text': 'He lay there'}, {'start': '2335.310', 'end': '2336.125', 'text': 'pale and gaunt'}, {'start': '2336.125', 'end': '2340.964', 'text': 'a shadow of the vigorous heir who had brought Cheng Yanran home what felt like a lifetime ago'}, {'start': '2340.964', 'end': '2342.339', 'text': 'The rear courts fell quiet'}, {'start': '2342.339', 'end': '2343.969', 'text': 'the concubines treading softly'}, {'start': '2343.969', 'end': '2347.637', 'text': 'their ambitions momentarily forgotten in the face of the Young Marquis'}, {'start': '2347.637', 'end': '2348.860', 'text': 's alarming deterioration'}, {'start': '2348.860', 'end': '2350.686', 'text': 'I chose my moment carefully'}, {'start': '2350.686', 'end': '2352.448', 'text': 'dismissing the attendants'}, {'start': '2352.448', 'end': '2354.732', 'text': 'ensuring we were completely alone'}, {'start': '2354.732', 'end': '2356.102', 'text': 'I sat by his bedside'}, {'start': '2356.102', 'end': '2358.386', 'text': 'wiping his brow with a cool cloth'}, {'start': '2358.386', 'end': '2360.800', 'text': 'my expression one of serene concern'}, {'start': '2360.865', 'end': '2361.061', 'text': 'Yu'}, {'start': '2361.061', 'end': '2361.256', 'text': 'er'}, {'start': '2361.322', 'end': '2362.039', 'text': 'he rasped'}, {'start': '2362.039', 'end': '2363.083', 'text': 'his voice weak'}, {'start': '2363.149', 'end': '2364.193', 'text': 'I feel… so weak'}, {'start': '2364.193', 'end': '2365.628', 'text': 'The doctors… they don'}, {'start': '2365.628', 'end': '2366.150', 'text': 't know…'}, {'start': '2366.215', 'end': '2367.259', 'text': 'I leaned closer'}, {'start': '2367.259', 'end': '2368.825', 'text': 'my voice a soft murmur'}, {'start': '2368.825', 'end': '2370.000', 'text': 'for his ears only'}, {'start': '2370.067', 'end': '2370.606', 'text': 'Perhaps'}, {'start': '2370.606', 'end': '2371.213', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '2371.213', 'end': '2374.785', 'text': 'it is not something the doctors can easily diagnose'}, {'start': '2374.920', 'end': '2375.999', 'text': 'He looked at me'}, {'start': '2375.999', 'end': '2378.627', 'text': 'confusion flickering in his dull eyes'}, {'start': '2378.695', 'end': '2380.245', 'text': 'What… what do you mean'}, {'start': '2380.380', 'end': '2382.267', 'text': 'I continued wiping his brow'}, {'start': '2382.267', 'end': '2383.413', 'text': 'my touch gentle'}, {'start': '2383.413', 'end': '2384.424', 'text': 'almost loving'}, {'start': '2384.492', 'end': '2388.940', 'text': 'Do you remember the nourishing soup I have been preparing for you'}, {'start': '2388.940', 'end': '2391.300', 'text': 'The one meant to restore your vigor'}, {'start': '2391.511', 'end': '2392.145', 'text': 'Yes… yes'}, {'start': '2392.145', 'end': '2393.624', 'text': 'it helps… a little…'}, {'start': '2393.765', 'end': '2395.456', 'text': 'It was designed to help'}, {'start': '2395.527', 'end': '2396.865', 'text': 'I agreed smoothly'}, {'start': '2396.936', 'end': '2399.261', 'text': 'To help you along a certain path'}, {'start': '2399.261', 'end': '2399.895', 'text': 'Combined'}, {'start': '2399.895', 'end': '2400.670', 'text': 'of course'}, {'start': '2400.670', 'end': '2402.572', 'text': 'with certain other things'}, {'start': '2402.572', 'end': '2407.292', 'text': 'Like the cooling dishes Concubine Li served you after you drank it'}, {'start': '2407.292', 'end': '2411.308', 'text': 'Or the shellfish Concubine Wang was so fond of preparing'}, {'start': '2411.308', 'end': '2414.620', 'text': 'Or the particular fruits Concubine Zhao favored'}, {'start': '2414.620', 'end': '2415.742', 'text': 'All harmless on their own'}, {'start': '2415.742', 'end': '2416.995', 'text': 'But together… with the soup…'}, {'start': '2416.995', 'end': '2418.377', 'text': 'I let my words hang in the air'}, {'start': '2418.377', 'end': '2419.586', 'text': 'Understanding dawned slowly'}, {'start': '2419.586', 'end': '2420.191', 'text': 'horrifyingly'}, {'start': '2420.191', 'end': '2420.752', 'text': 'in his eyes'}, {'start': '2420.752', 'end': '2421.443', 'text': 'He stared at me'}, {'start': '2421.443', 'end': '2423.473', 'text': 'disbelief warring with a chilling realization'}, {'start': '2423.516', 'end': '2423.732', 'text': 'You…'}, {'start': '2423.862', 'end': '2424.898', 'text': 'I cared for your health'}, {'start': '2424.898', 'end': '2425.287', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '2425.330', 'end': '2425.676', 'text': 'I said'}, {'start': '2425.676', 'end': '2426.582', 'text': 'my voice still soft'}, {'start': '2426.582', 'end': '2428.440', 'text': 'yet carrying an unmistakable edge of steel'}, {'start': '2428.505', 'end': '2429.429', 'text': 'In my own way'}, {'start': '2429.429', 'end': '2432.726', 'text': 'Just as I cared for the harmony of this household'}, {'start': '2432.726', 'end': '2434.771', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran upset the harmony'}, {'start': '2434.771', 'end': '2436.024', 'text': 'Her singular focus'}, {'start': '2436.024', 'end': '2438.135', 'text': 'her arrogance… it bred discord'}, {'start': '2438.135', 'end': '2441.168', 'text': 'The ten concubines restored a certain balance'}, {'start': '2441.168', 'end': '2441.696', 'text': 'wouldn'}, {'start': '2441.696', 'end': '2442.487', 'text': 't you agree'}, {'start': '2442.487', 'end': '2446.379', 'text': 'Though their competition also required… careful management'}, {'start': '2446.510', 'end': '2448.093', 'text': 'His breath grew shallow'}, {'start': '2448.093', 'end': '2450.600', 'text': 'his eyes wide with shock and betrayal'}, {'start': '2450.600', 'end': '2451.620', 'text': 'He tried to speak'}, {'start': '2451.620', 'end': '2452.585', 'text': 'perhaps to rage'}, {'start': '2452.585', 'end': '2453.776', 'text': 'perhaps to question'}, {'start': '2453.776', 'end': '2455.648', 'text': 'but only a choked sound emerged'}, {'start': '2455.704', 'end': '2458.030', 'text': 'Cheng Yanran’s final act was regrettable'}, {'start': '2458.087', 'end': '2459.221', 'text': 'I continued calmly'}, {'start': '2459.221', 'end': '2461.320', 'text': 'as if discussing household accounts'}, {'start': '2461.376', 'end': '2462.114', 'text': 'So desperate'}, {'start': '2462.114', 'end': '2464.269', 'text': 'It was necessary to guide her despair'}, {'start': '2464.269', 'end': '2464.893', 'text': 'of course'}, {'start': '2464.893', 'end': '2468.410', 'text': 'towards a less… disruptive conclusion than lingering madness'}, {'start': '2468.410', 'end': '2471.700', 'text': 'The Old Master and Old Madam are the pillars of this house'}, {'start': '2471.700', 'end': '2473.557', 'text': 'Their stability is paramount'}, {'start': '2473.685', 'end': '2474.711', 'text': 'He stared at me'}, {'start': '2474.711', 'end': '2478.106', 'text': 'truly seeing me for the first time – not the placid'}, {'start': '2478.106', 'end': '2479.387', 'text': 'accommodating wife'}, {'start': '2479.387', 'end': '2481.501', 'text': 'but the architect of his demise'}, {'start': '2481.501', 'end': '2486.050', 'text': 'the master manipulator who had controlled everything from the shadows'}, {'start': '2486.114', 'end': '2486.370', 'text': 'Why'}, {'start': '2486.434', 'end': '2487.844', 'text': 'he finally whispered'}, {'start': '2487.844', 'end': '2489.445', 'text': 'the word barely audible'}, {'start': '2489.445', 'end': '2489.958', 'text': 'A small'}, {'start': '2489.958', 'end': '2491.880', 'text': 'genuine smile touched my lips'}, {'start': '2491.942', 'end': '2494.610', 'text': 'You brought your past love into my present'}, {'start': '2494.610', 'end': '2495.168', 'text': 'Husband'}, {'start': '2495.168', 'end': '2497.340', 'text': 'You expected me to accommodate her'}, {'start': '2497.340', 'end': '2500.443', 'text': 'to gracefully accept second place in my own home'}, {'start': '2500.443', 'end': '2501.808', 'text': 'You underestimated me'}, {'start': '2501.808', 'end': '2502.615', 'text': 'Everyone did'}, {'start': '2502.615', 'end': '2505.035', 'text': 'I simply took control of the narrative'}, {'start': '2505.035', 'end': '2506.525', 'text': 'I managed the household'}, {'start': '2506.525', 'end': '2507.518', 'text': 'as was my duty'}, {'start': '2507.518', 'end': '2508.076', 'text': 'And now…'}, {'start': '2508.076', 'end': '2510.186', 'text': 'I gestured around the quiet room'}, {'start': '2510.310', 'end': '2511.800', 'text': '…the household is stable'}, {'start': '2511.800', 'end': '2512.221', 'text': 'Secure'}, {'start': '2512.341', 'end': '2515.349', 'text': 'Tears of rage and helplessness welled in his eyes'}, {'start': '2515.349', 'end': '2516.252', 'text': 'He was trapped'}, {'start': '2516.252', 'end': '2517.816', 'text': 'weakened beyond recovery'}, {'start': '2517.816', 'end': '2521.787', 'text': 'his fate sealed by the very hands he thought were caring for him'}, {'start': '2521.787', 'end': '2523.352', 'text': 'He opened his mouth again'}, {'start': '2523.352', 'end': '2525.398', 'text': 'but only a rattling sigh escaped'}, {'start': '2525.398', 'end': '2526.962', 'text': 'His eyes fluttered closed'}, {'start': '2526.962', 'end': '2528.587', 'text': 'then opened one last time'}, {'start': '2528.587', 'end': '2530.993', 'text': 'fixing on my face with a look of utter'}, {'start': '2530.993', 'end': '2533.220', 'text': 'impotent despair before glazing over'}, {'start': '2533.220', 'end': '2533.868', 'text': 'Xu Yanzhou'}, {'start': '2533.868', 'end': '2535.519', 'text': 'heir to the Marquisate Hou'}, {'start': '2535.519', 'end': '2536.109', 'text': 'was dead'}, {'start': '2536.109', 'end': '2537.112', 'text': 'In the aftermath'}, {'start': '2537.112', 'end': '2540.119', 'text': 'I played the role of the grieving widow perfectly'}, {'start': '2540.119', 'end': '2541.475', 'text': 'Clad in mourning white'}, {'start': '2541.475', 'end': '2545.603', 'text': 'I oversaw the funeral arrangements with quiet dignity and competence'}, {'start': '2545.603', 'end': '2550.616', 'text': 'The official cause of death was recorded as exhaustion and depletion of vital energy'}, {'start': '2550.616', 'end': '2557.280', 'text': 'a tragic consequence of his demanding life and underlying weakness – a verdict supported by the court physicians'}, {'start': '2557.280', 'end': '2558.401', 'text': 'With Yanzhou gone'}, {'start': '2558.401', 'end': '2562.887', 'text': 'and the Old Marquis and Old Madam increasingly frail and reliant on me'}, {'start': '2562.887', 'end': '2565.379', 'text': 'especially after the poisoning attempt'}, {'start': '2565.379', 'end': '2567.248', 'text': 'my position was unassailable'}, {'start': '2567.248', 'end': '2571.734', 'text': 'As Yanzhou’s official wife and the mother figure to his only surviving'}, {'start': '2571.734', 'end': '2572.607', 'text': 'albeit female'}, {'start': '2572.607', 'end': '2574.538', 'text': 'offspring from the concubines'}, {'start': '2574.538', 'end': '2577.280', 'text': 'I became the de facto head of the household'}, {'start': '2577.280', 'end': '2580.111', 'text': 'When the Old Marquis eventually passed a year later'}, {'start': '2580.111', 'end': '2582.016', 'text': 'followed shortly by the Old Madam'}, {'start': '2582.016', 'end': '2583.431', 'text': 'my status was formalized'}, {'start': '2583.431', 'end': '2585.119', 'text': 'I became the Dowager Madam Hou'}, {'start': '2585.119', 'end': '2585.772', 'text': 'The Emperor'}, {'start': '2585.772', 'end': '2591.707', 'text': 'acknowledging my capable management during turbulent times and my status as the widow of the heir apparent'}, {'start': '2591.707', 'end': '2592.360', 'text': 'whose brief'}, {'start': '2592.360', 'end': '2595.844', 'text': 'lived infant brother inherited and quickly succumbed to illness'}, {'start': '2595.844', 'end': '2597.314', 'text': 'leaving the title distant'}, {'start': '2597.369', 'end': '2599.492', 'text': 'bestowed upon me the rank of a Second'}, {'start': '2599.492', 'end': '2600.799', 'text': 'Ranked Madam of Command'}, {'start': '2600.799', 'end': '2603.140', 'text': 'a title of significant honor and privilege'}, {'start': '2603.140', 'end': '2604.080', 'text': 'The Marquisate was mine'}, {'start': '2604.080', 'end': '2605.060', 'text': 'The remaining concubines'}, {'start': '2605.060', 'end': '2606.039', 'text': 'including Jiang and Cui'}, {'start': '2606.039', 'end': '2607.450', 'text': 'the mothers of Yanzhou’s daughters'}, {'start': '2607.450', 'end': '2608.704', 'text': 'lived under my benevolent rule'}, {'start': '2608.704', 'end': '2610.625', 'text': 'There was no more need for competition or strife'}, {'start': '2610.625', 'end': '2612.780', 'text': 'Recognizing their precarious positions without Yanzhou'}, {'start': '2612.780', 'end': '2614.073', 'text': 'I offered them a different path'}, {'start': '2614.073', 'end': '2616.111', 'text': 'Using the considerable resources now at my disposal'}, {'start': '2616.111', 'end': '2619.560', 'text': 'I helped those who wished it to establish small businesses outside the Marquisate walls'}, {'start': '2619.560', 'end': '2622.344', 'text': 'Concubine Jiang opened a popular teahouse'}, {'start': '2622.344', 'end': '2625.792', 'text': 'Concubine Cui started a successful embroidery shop'}, {'start': '2625.792', 'end': '2626.256', 'text': 'Others'}, {'start': '2626.256', 'end': '2628.046', 'text': 'content with a quiet life'}, {'start': '2628.046', 'end': '2629.968', 'text': 'remained in the rear courts'}, {'start': '2629.968', 'end': '2633.217', 'text': 'tending gardens and raising the two young girls'}, {'start': '2633.217', 'end': '2637.129', 'text': 'secure in the knowledge that the Dowager Madam was a fair'}, {'start': '2637.129', 'end': '2638.123', 'text': 'if formidable'}, {'start': '2638.123', 'end': '2638.852', 'text': 'protector'}, {'start': '2638.852', 'end': '2639.980', 'text': 'I never remarried'}, {'start': '2639.980', 'end': '2641.709', 'text': 'I had no need of a husband'}, {'start': '2641.709', 'end': '2643.310', 'text': 'I managed the Marquisate'}, {'start': '2643.310', 'end': '2645.872', 'text': 's estates with shrewdness and foresight'}, {'start': '2645.872', 'end': '2647.729', 'text': 'increasing their prosperity'}, {'start': '2647.729', 'end': '2648.818', 'text': 'I raised Yanzhou'}, {'start': '2648.818', 'end': '2650.227', 'text': 's daughters as my own'}, {'start': '2650.227', 'end': '2654.966', 'text': 'ensuring they received education and suitable matches when the time came'}, {'start': '2654.966', 'end': '2656.375', 'text': 'My days were peaceful'}, {'start': '2656.375', 'end': '2657.720', 'text': 'filled with purpose'}, {'start': '2657.720', 'end': '2659.897', 'text': 'I held court in my receiving room'}, {'start': '2659.897', 'end': '2661.050', 'text': 'managed finances'}, {'start': '2661.050', 'end': '2662.587', 'text': 'oversaw tenant farmers'}, {'start': '2662.587', 'end': '2665.341', 'text': 'and occasionally advised on court matters'}, {'start': '2665.341', 'end': '2669.120', 'text': 'my opinion sought due to my rank and reputation for wisdom'}, {'start': '2669.120', 'end': '2670.177', 'text': 'In the evenings'}, {'start': '2670.177', 'end': '2672.687', 'text': 'I would often sit alone in my garden'}, {'start': '2672.687', 'end': '2677.445', 'text': 'the same garden where Cheng Yanran had once flaunted her pearl hairpin'}, {'start': '2677.445', 'end': '2680.088', 'text': 'sipping tea and watching the moon rise'}, {'start': '2680.088', 'end': '2681.541', 'text': 'I had faced the storm'}, {'start': '2681.541', 'end': '2684.448', 'text': 'navigated the treacherous currents of love'}, {'start': '2684.448', 'end': '2685.109', 'text': 'betrayal'}, {'start': '2685.109', 'end': '2686.034', 'text': 'and ambition'}, {'start': '2686.034', 'end': '2688.148', 'text': 'and emerged not just unscathed'}, {'start': '2688.148', 'end': '2689.140', 'text': 'but triumphant'}, {'start': '2689.140', 'end': '2690.920', 'text': 'I had rewritten my destiny'}, {'start': '2690.920', 'end': '2696.920', 'text': 'transforming from a potentially discarded wife into the undisputed master of my own world'}, {'start': '2696.920', 'end': '2704.239', 'text': 'The whispers of the past – of white moonlights and broken hearts – faded into insignificance against the quiet'}, {'start': '2704.239', 'end': '2706.415', 'text': 'unshakeable power I now wielded'}, {'start': '2706.415', 'end': '2707.008', 'text': 'Life was'}, {'start': '2707.008', 'end': '2707.602', 'text': 'finally'}, {'start': '2707.602', 'end': '2709.316', 'text': 'exactly as I designed it'}, {'start': '2709.316', 'end': '2709.910', 'text': 'orderly'}, {'start': '2709.910', 'end': '2710.701', 'text': 'prosperous'}, {'start': '2710.701', 'end': '2712.020', 'text': 'and entirely my own'}, {'start': '2712.020', 'end': '2714.503', 'text': 'And as the last rays of sunlight painted the sky'}, {'start': '2714.503', 'end': '2715.821', 'text': 'I’d allow myself a small'}, {'start': '2715.821', 'end': '2716.682', 'text': 'satisfied smile'}, {'start': '2716.682', 'end': '2718.608', 'text': 'Let the storytellers spin their tales'}, {'start': '2718.608', 'end': '2721.041', 'text': 'Only I knew the intricate weave of the tapestry'}, {'start': '2721.041', 'end': '2725.095', 'text': 'the subtle poisons and careful arrangements that led to this serene conclusion'}, {'start': '2725.095', 'end': '2725.551', 'text': 'Remember'}, {'start': '2725.551', 'end': '2726.210', 'text': 'dear reader'}, {'start': '2726.210', 'end': '2728.440', 'text': 'fortunes can change in the blink of an eye'}, {'start': '2728.440', 'end': '2729.352', 'text': 'or with the slow'}, {'start': '2729.352', 'end': '2730.721', 'text': 'deliberate drip of a well'}, {'start': '2730.721', 'end': '2731.380', 'text': 'planned tonic'}, {'start': '2731.380', 'end': '2734.416', 'text': 'If you enjoyed watching this game unfold'}, {'start': '2734.416', 'end': '2735.601', 'text': 'perhaps a like'}, {'start': '2735.601', 'end': '2736.786', 'text': 'a subscription'}, {'start': '2736.786', 'end': '2741.897', 'text': 'might ensure your own path is paved with success rather than sorrow'}, {'start': '2741.897', 'end': '2742.638', 'text': 'After all'}, {'start': '2742.638', 'end': '2744.119', 'text': 'knowledge is power'}, {'start': '2744.119', 'end': '2745.378', 'text': 'and power… well'}, {'start': '2745.378', 'end': '2746.933', 'text': 'power is everything'}, {'start': '2746.933', 'end': '2748.118', 'text': 'Until next time'}, {'start': '2748.118', 'end': '2751.600', 'text': 'may your wits be sharp and your enemies unwary'}]