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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LADY KIM ━ WHOSE REAL NAME WAS SAERA ━ STOOD IN HER ASSIGNED CHAMBERS IN FIREGARDEN, her eyes fixed on the ornate mirror before her. She ran her fingers through her hair, trying to tame the unruly locks that always seemed to resist her efforts. No matter how much she tried, she could never quite get her appearance to match the lofty expectations that came with being betrothed to the crown prince.
Her thoughts drifted to Jungwon, her intended. He was always distant, never spending time with her unless it was absolutely necessary. She felt lonely and neglected, wondering what she had done to deserve such treatment. Despite her best efforts to be the perfect match for him, it seemed that she could never measure up to the servant girl that he favoured.
Lady Kim sighed heavily, feeling the weight of her inadequacies press down on her. She longed for a connection with Jungwon, but it seemed that no matter how hard she tried, it was never enough. She was trapped in a gilded cage, destined to forever feel alone in a world that demanded perfection.
Her heart heart skipped a beat as Princess Jieun walked into the room. She had always felt a sense of unease around Jungwon's twin sister, unsure of where she stood with the princess.
Jieun's piercing gaze fell upon Lady Kim, her expression unreadable. The two women stood in silence for a few moments, each unsure of how to break the tension that hung heavily in the air.
Finally, Jieun spoke. 'Lady Kim, may I speak with you?' Her tone was formal, but there was an underlying kindness that Lady Kim had never expected.
'Of course, Princess Jieun,' Lady Kim replied, trying to keep the surprise from her voice.
'I know that things have not been easy for you,' Jieun continued, her eyes softening slightly. 'I also know about the rumours that have been circulating about Jungwon and the servant girl. I wanted to speak with you to assure you that you have my support, should you need it.'
Lady Kim was taken aback. She had never expected such kindness from Jieun, and it touched her deeply. 'Thank you, Princess Jieun,' she said, feeling tears prick at the corners of her eyes. 'Your words mean more to me than you can know.'
