Upon first entering the Eastern Palace, Henry Faulkner, bearing the reputation of a substitute bride and the daughter of a traitor, lived with utmost caution, treading carefully at every step.

She knew well that, as a concubine-born daughter, she was merely a pawn thrown out to appease the late emperor’s edict.

This was all to ensure that her noble legitimate sister could become the Crown Prince’s concubine, thus winning the family a share in the glory of supporting the new emperor.

Her father looked on coldly, “Being able to enter the Eastern Palace is your good fortune. The family has raised you for years; you ought to be grateful and repay us.”

Her legitimate sister mocked, “You were born lowly and illegitimate. Taking my place in the Eastern Palace is your blessing.”

Henry Faulkner lowered her gaze, hiding the cold gleam in her eyes. “Father, rest assured. For the kindness of raising me, your daughter will surely repay you a thousandfold.”

Did they really think they could trample her bones and blood to curry favor with the new power, climbing ever higher to wealth and glory?

Years later, Henry Faulkner lounged lazily in the arms of the newly enthroned Crown Prince, watching those once arrogant people grovel at her feet like pigs and dogs, begging for mercy.

“To spare or not, it’s up to my beloved consort.”

The man in dragon robes smiled gently.

Henry Faulkner lifted her charming eyes and waved her slender hand.

“Kill them. Noisy.”

They wanted to push her into the fire pit, but she would rise from the ashes, making these despicable, wolf-hearted people regret endlessly and taste the bitter fruit of their deeds!