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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THE GRAND HALL VIBRATED WITH ANTICIPATION AS THE FEAST COMMENCED, its opulent decor adding an air of majesty to the festivities. Elaborate tapestries depicting heroic tales adorned the stone walls, and countless flickering candles cast a warm, golden glow throughout the hall. The long, exquisitely adorned table at the centre of the room beckoned guests with its abundance of delicacies and fine wines.
Amidst the bustling crowd, conversations intertwined in a symphony of murmurs and laughter. Nobles and courtiers mingled, their vibrant attire adding splashes of colour to the scene. The clinking of goblets and the tantalising aromas of roasted meats and spiced fruits filled the air, heightening the senses of those present.
At the far end of the hall, the high table loomed, a symbol of power and prominence. Divided into two distinct sections, it embodied the stark divisions that plagued the kingdom. On one side, a table draped in rich velvet and adorned with golden embellishments awaited the presence of King Riki and Queen Jieun. Their thrones, intricately carved and cushioned with plush velvet, exuded an aura of authority.
Opposite them, at the other end of the high table, Jungwon, flanked by Lord Kim and Sunoo, occupied their seats. The air around their table crackled with tension, for Lady Kim's absence had not gone unnoticed. Deji, with a cunning smile playing upon her lips, had taken her place, eager to fill the void left by Lady Kim's demise, unbeknownst to the occupants of the table. Her gaze darted around the room, revelling in the absence of the woman she despised, her satisfaction thinly veiled.
Deji, dressed in a simple yet alluring gown, exhibited a subtle air of superiority despite her station. Her eyes gleamed with a mischievous glint as she engaged in conversations with the others at the table. Her words were laced with veiled barbs, aimed at those who had once held power but now found themselves in diminished roles. Her presence was a constant reminder of the treacherous undercurrents running through the kingdom, where alliances were forged and broken at will.
Jungwon glanced at Sunoo, his brow furrowed with concern. 'Where is Lady Kim? Should she not be present?' he whispered, his voice barely audible amidst the lively chatter.
'Maybe she is arriving when Princess Jieun and Prince Riki arrive,' Sunoo replied, his tone carrying a hint of uncertainty. He scanned the tables, searching for any sign of Lady Kim's familiar presence, but to no avail.
