The snow in the Cold Palace was three degrees colder than anywhere else.
Shen Qingyuan curled up on the shabby bed, gazing at the snow drifting down outside the window. She coughed up a mouthful of blood.
Three years ago, she had been the celebrated legitimate daughter of the prime minister's household, married into the Eastern Palace with a lavish procession. Three years later, she was a disgraced empress whom everyone despised. A bowl of medicine had ended the life of the child in her womb, and her father and brothers had all been sentenced to execution.
“Your Majesty, His Majesty has come to see you.” A eunuch's shrill voice rang out. Shen Qingyuan slowly raised her eyes, their depths utterly lifeless...
