Chapter 258

She stood by the window, gazing at the distant city lights. The night wind brushed gently, carrying a hint of coolness.

"Your Majesty, it's late. You should rest," a voice sounded behind her.

She didn't turn around, simply saying softly, "Eunuch Wang, you may retire. I'll stand here a bit longer."

Eunuch Wang sighed, seeming to want to speak but then holding back, finally retreating respectfully.

She knew what he wanted to say. It was always about urging her to let go of her hatred and live a peaceful life. But how could she let go? The deep-seated vengeance for the bloodshed echoed in her mind constantly. She clenched her fists, her nails digging deeply into her palms.

Outside the window, the moon was half-obscured by dark clouds, its light appearing somewhat dim.

"I won't give up," she murmured to herself.

Faint footsteps were heard outside the door, followed by a knock.

"Come in," she said.

A young maid entered, carrying a tray with a steaming bowl of calming soup. "Princess, Eunuch Wang specially prepared this for you," the maid said softly.

She took the bowl but didn't drink from it, instead placing it on the windowsill. The maid hesitated, then wisely refrained from saying more, bowing before exiting.

Once again, she was left alone in the room.

She walked to the bedside and picked up an old book. Its pages had yellowed and the edges were worn. It was the only memento her mother had left her. Opening the book, she found a small dried flower pressed between the pages. Its petals were withered but still held their original shape. She gently caressed the dried flower, her eyes filled with fondness and pain.

"Mother..." she whispered.

Tears blurred her vision. She blinked hard, forcing them back. This was no time for weakness. She had to be strong. For the lives that were lost, for the deep-seated conviction in her heart.

She closed the book and took a deep breath. As night deepened, the city lights twinkled like countless stars, still brilliant. Yet her heart was as profound and heavy as the endless night.

She knew the path ahead was long and arduous. But she was ready. She would walk step by step until the flames of vengeance consumed everything.