For several seconds, Nanny Zhang remained on the ground.

Shock had overwhelmed pain.

The Scarlett she remembered would cry when a servant raised their voice. She would apologize before anyone accused her and tremble whenever Lady Eleanor’s name was mentioned.

That Scar

By nightfall, the Quiet Pavilion had begun to resemble a livable residence.

The servants had removed most of the weeds, cleaned the main rooms, and repaired the torn window coverings. Nanny Zhang worked in angry silence, her swollen hand wrapped in cloth.

Scarlet

The imperial guards changed formation immediately.

Two blocked the window. One guarded the stairs. The remaining soldiers moved through the medicine room in pairs, their swords drawn.

The captain crouched beside the damaged cabinet and examined the lock.

“This was not