Shen Lian watched from behind the screen as maids swept the snow from the stone path. The boy was sleeping in her old embroidery room, now converted into a quiet corner of her control.
She had not yet asked his name. She would wait until he was strong enough to speak—and to swear loyalty.
Aunt Lin entered quietly. "Miss Shen, your mother wishes to see you in the east hall. Your sister is there as well."
Shen Lian's fingers paused on the tea cup.
Of course. It was about the selection banquet. In her first life, Shen Yue had stolen that spot with a single tear and a few poisoned words.
"Very well," she said, rising.
The east hall smelled of sweet osmanthus and deception.
Madam Xu—her stepmother—sat at the head, dressed in her usual gentle lilac robes. Her daughter, Shen Yue, sat beside her with folded hands, face turned slightly, lips curved in a quiet smile.
"Lian'er," Madam Xu said, voice warm, "your sister has expressed interest in attending the palace selection ceremony next month. She's a little nervous, but I think she's ready."
Shen Lian curtsied. "Naturally. Younger sister is beautiful and well-read. It's only right that she represent our household."
Shen Yue blinked, clearly not expecting agreement. "Sister is too kind. I… I only mentioned it in passing."
"You have my full support," Shen Lian said, her smile serene. "If you need help preparing your poetry scrolls or embroidery samples, I'll be glad to lend a hand."
Madam Xu relaxed, visibly relieved. "Good, good. Sisters should support one another."
But beneath Shen Lian's smile, calculations bloomed like poison flowers.
In her past life, Shen Yue had begged to withdraw from the selection at the last moment, only to be 'forced' into it and become a favored companion to the Crown Prince. That 'reluctance' had drawn sympathy and protection from the palace like moths to flame.
This time, Shen Lian would push her sister forward with all her strength—and let the flames burn.
She lowered her head, hiding her eyes.
"Let us all do our best to make sure Yue'er shines."