The Amulet of Protection

[ FLASHBACK ]

Eve and Esmeralda were forbidden to leave Lotus Pavilion. For ten years, Esmeralda didn't break the rule for Eve's sake. 

But tonight, for some unknown reason, Esmeralda snuck out of the palace together with Eve. She was so anxious as she led her daughter out. They ended up entering the Moonshade Grove Forest.

"Mother, what's wrong?" Eve asked her mother in puzzlement. "Where are we going?"

Esmeralda crouched down, gently stroking Eve's head. She held her shoulders and looked at her.

"Eve, listen to me. We are no longer safe in the palace. Before, I told you that sometimes… it is best for us to be silent… to keep our safety. That's why we decided not to fight back despite the maltreatment coming from the queen and her children."