Chapter Eight

Aeri flees Euyn’s suite, reeling from Mikail’s casual mention of Prince Omin’s predation and the Baejkin family’s abuses. Sora follows to check on her. Aeri apologizes for past deceptions and insists she is not like her family; Sora, measured and compassionate, agrees.

As they talk, Sora admits she once planned to steal the Immortal Crown for her sister, Daysum, who may be dying. She now needs Aeri to pursue the Yusan throne to prevent Euyn from ruling. Sora cites rumors of historic queens and possible proof in the Temple of Knowledge, suggesting Aeri’s birthright could supersede Euyn’s.

Prompted by Sora’s trust, Aeri reveals her trauma: at twelve she was assaulted by Prince Omin, killed him with sewing scissors, and set a fire to hide it, unintentionally causing three servants’ deaths. From Omin she took an amulet—the Sands of Time of the Dragon Lord—that stops time, but using it aged her four years, forcing her to vanish and never return to her mother before her mother died.

Sora comforts Aeri, insisting she is not her bloodline. Aeri grieves the isolation and guilt she has carried, while keeping the amulet a secret. Their embrace seals a tentative reconciliation.

In the end, Aeri recognizes the depth of Sora’s devotion to Daysum, understanding that Sora will sacrifice anything to save her—making Sora both a vital ally and a potentially dangerous foe.