The War of Flowers

She's Mine

Yi Kang sat beside his mother and faced the minister of war in front of him. His face was dark and impassive as he squinted his eyes at the man in front of him.

"I don't know that the three of us had a common topic to talk about," said YiKang calmly.

Queen Im gave a warning look to her son. "Well, you can speak Yoon Daegam," she said.

Yoon So Gwang let out a deep breath. "I would like to give my full support to Your Highness with one condition."

"What is it?"  Yi Kang smiled with a touch of disdain.

Yoon So Gwang fixed his eyes on the crown prince's face, his teeth gritted. "I would like your highness to help my eldest daughter out of the palace."

Yi Kang scoffed.

Yoon So Gwang narrowed his eyes. He must think after he uttered his bargaining chip, the crown prince would gladly take it and try to negotiate. Too bad, The new crown prince was different from the last one. He was more practical and decisive regarding policies. Within two years, he was already proficient with the art of politics and seamlessly handling the court. Even the opponent gave their respect to this former rebellious prince.

"If you want to take your eldest daughter out of this place, I'm the last person you can ask for help because I will do everything in my power to keep her here," said Yi Kang, there was ice in his voice.

Queen Im sighed. Yi Kang hated Debi-mama and her cronies, but he shouldn't let his emotion cloud his judgment. Yoon So Gwang is a good minister despite his stand beside Debi-mama. Getting his support will help him tremendously. Furthermore, she also wanted that girl to find happiness. For god's sake, that girl doesn't deserve her son's cold shoulder just because of her father's identity.

"Seja, you should think about it first," she persuaded her son.

"No need Eoma-mama. My decision wouldn't change. Yoon Cheongha would stay at the palace as long as I'm here." said Yi Kang, he met her eyes moodily.

"If your highness is angry because we are used to standing on opposite stands, don't vent it to my daughter. Don't involve my daughter in this game of power. She was innocent. She doesn't play politics."

"Seja, Yoon Cheongha has someone in her heart," said Queen Im, a note of firmness in her voice.

Minister Yoon and Yi Kang's heads turned toward Queen Im. Seeing the two of them gave full of their attention Queen Im saw as a cue to continue.

"Two years ago, I accidentally met Lady Yoon. I like her very much and suggested she join the crown princess election. She refused because she already has someone she fell in love with." said Queen Im. She couldn't help herself but smiled widely when she remember how bright the young woman was. At that time Yoon Cheongha was glowed with happiness that made people attracted to her.

Yi Kang's eyes darkened. His face went pale and he clenched his hands tight.

Yoon So Gwang nodded his head. "Yes. They plan to get married this year, but Debi-mama forces her to enter the palace, so the wedding falls through. "

Yi Kang looked incredulously at Minister Yoon.

"Yoon Daegam, Don't you know that lying to the royal family is punished by death? How could you be so confident lying straight to my face."

"My daughter has a lover. I'm not lying, your highness."

"Right? So what is his name? Your daughter's lover?"

"Ne?"

"His name... Yoon Daegam. Give me his name." said Yi Kang, a hint of mockery edging his mouth.

"Why does your highness want to know his name?"