In a kingdom torn by power struggles and political intrigue, Jieun, the rightful heir to the throne of the East, finds herself sidelined as her brother, Jungwon, takes control. Determined to reclaim her birthright, Jieun seeks alliances and forms a...
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KING JAEHO SAT ON HIS CHAIR IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS, LISTENING TO HIS COUNCIL MEMBERS DELIBERATE A POSSIBLE MATCH FOR JIEUN.
'. . .no, the North is too far away. She is not suited to be a lady of the north. . .'
'. . .The Highlands. The Kangs are a fine house, and the heir to Aerie is a young boy her age.' His eyes darted over to Jieun. 'What about Aerie? We could strengthen our alliance with the Kangs. . .'
'I would second the motion. . .'
'If I may. . .' Lord Kim spoke up. 'Perhaps a marriage between House Nishimura and House Yang, Jieun and their eldest son Riki? It would calm the strife.'
Jieun's eyes shot to him, glaring at him.
Jaeho was not a man to be easily surprised. He was, however, a little surprised by the suggestion made by Lord Kim. 'Nishimura, Lord Kim?' Jaeho raised an eyebrow. Even he, a man known for cold and calculated assessments of situations, thought that Lord Kim's idea was absolutely ridiculous. 'We would be forging a marriage with our greatest enemies. Do I need to explain why that is a ridiculously foolish and dangerous idea, or will you come up with an explanation on your own, Lord Kim?'
'My sovereign. We would be preventing a war, mending centuries of broken bonds. Your daughter would be made queen consort, her blood would sit on their throne, as your own son sits yours,' Lord Kim argued.
Jaeho had to fight off the urge to laugh at Lord Kim's foolish suggestion. His daughter becoming consort to a Nishimura? The thought alone was humorous. 'The idea that your "solution" would lead to peace is laughable, Lord Kim. The Nishimuras have wanted our throne in the name of their family for centuries. What makes you think they would be willing to give up that dream for the promise of a royal marriage? No, Lord Kim. House Nishimura is not an option for Princess Jieun. Do you have any other ideas?'
'Think of it, Your Grace. We end up winning either way. If they take Princess Jieun as hostage, we have a reason to declare war. House Nishimura are powerful, yes, but we would crush them in an invasion. However, if she does end up in a happy marriage, her blood will sit on their throne and we will have direct power through her,' Lord Kim said.
