The sun had just risen when Shen Lian appeared at the foot of the imperial court's outer chamber.
She wore simple robes, her hair neatly tied, her expression unreadable.
The ministers stared. A child—barely of age—should not be here. Not alone. Not so calm.
"Who permitted this?" one barked.
Shen Lian stepped forward and bowed deeply.
"Your Majesties," she said, voice ringing clear. "I am Shen Lian, daughter of the late Grand General Shen. I request exile."
Gasps echoed like thunder.
Even the Emperor paused, hand tightening around his armrest.
"Exile?" he repeated.
Shen Lian remained bowed. "To the southern garrison, where soldiers fall and grain rots. Send me there. Let me serve in silence."
The Empress leaned in, eyes narrowing.
"Is this guilt? Or defiance?"
Shen Lian looked up, gaze steady.
"This is gratitude," she said. "For a second life I intend to repay with usefulness—not complaint."
That night, the order was signed.
Exile. Southern depot. No title. No escort.
Only a girl, a cloak, and one loyal servant.
As she left the capital at dawn, snow still clung to the palace eaves.
Zhou met her at the gate.
"You should have begged for favor," he muttered.
"I begged once," she said, climbing into the carriage. "It ended with poison."
She pulled the curtain closed.
"This time, I'll earn my power."
And the wheels began to turn.
To be continued in Chapter 3: Fox in the Ashes