Conspiracy

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The cold wind of Winterhold swept through the stone corridors of Frostholm Citadel, whistling through the narrow windows and sending an unsettling chill through Hyunjin's bones. The warmth of the private villa garden seemed far away now as he made his way back inside the citadel. The meeting with Felix, Jeongin, and Jisung had left him with a heavy heart; he could see the strain on all of them, each burdened by the growing unrest in their kingdoms.

As they headed toward the main council chamber, Jackson Wang trailed behind Hyunjin, his movements as silent and measured as ever. Despite his professionalism, the absence of Chan was still a wound that hadn't healed. Jackson was doing his job well, but there was no personal connection, no sense of shared history. Hyunjin knew he was safe with Jackson, but he didn't feel at ease.

When they reached the chamber, the doors creaked open to reveal a scene of quiet chaos. Ministers and envoys from each of the four kingdoms stood in clusters, whispering urgently to one another. The air was thick with suspicion and tension.

At the far end of the room, King Han Junseo sat on his throne, his face stern as he listened to one of his advisors speak in hushed tones. The king's expression darkened as Hyunjin entered the room, but he quickly masked his displeasure with a neutral facade.

"Your Highness," King Junseo said, his voice even, though it held an edge of impatience. "We've been waiting."

Hyunjin gave a respectful bow. "My apologies, Your Majesty. I was speaking with the other princes."

King Junseo waved his hand dismissively, his attention already back on his advisor. Hyunjin took his seat at the long table, where the other crown princes were already gathered, each wearing a mask of controlled concern.

 Hyunjin took his seat at the long table, where the other crown princes were already gathered, each wearing a mask of controlled concern

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Jeongin, who sat across from Hyunjin, looked tense. His fingers drummed nervously against the table, his eyes darting toward the king every few seconds. Beside him, Jisung sat rigidly, his normally relaxed demeanor replaced with unease.

"The investigation into the attack has yielded... concerning information," King Junseo began, his gaze sweeping over the room. "It appears that the attackers were not acting independently. There is evidence that suggests a larger conspiracy—one that involves factions within the Yang Kingdom."

Jeongin stiffened, his face going pale. "That can't be right," he said, his voice trembling slightly. "I would know if there were factions within my kingdom plotting something like this."

"I'm afraid the evidence speaks for itself," King Junseo said, his voice firm. "The attackers had direct connections to high-ranking officials in your court, Prince Jeongin. This rebellion is more widespread than any of us anticipated."

Jisung reached out and placed a reassuring hand on Jeongin's arm, offering silent support. Hyunjin watched the exchange, noting the quiet bond between them. Though they tried to keep their expressions neutral, it was clear that both princes were deeply affected by the revelations.

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