第4章

41 8 1
                                    

The grand hall filled with dignitaries, samurai, and nobles awaited Eunchae's arrival. Her father, the retiring Shogun, stood proudly beside the ceremonial throne.

As Eunchae entered, the assembly bowed in unison. Her majestic red kimono and regal demeanor commanded respect.

"Eunchae-sama, Shinsei Shogun!" the herald announced.

The retiring Shogun began,

"By the Emperor's decree and our ancestral tradition,I pass the mantle to my worthy successor,Eunchae-sama."

Eunchae approached the throne, her heart swelling with pride and responsibility.

"Kokoro Kara, Eunchae-sama,' Riki whispered, kneeling beside her, his eyes shining with loyalty.

The ceremony proceeds with sacred rituals.The Shinto high priestess, dressed in white robes, stepped forward, carrying a sacred sakaki tree branch. She began the purification ritual, chanting ancient prayers.

Eunchae bowed, receiving the blessing. Her father presented her with the Shogunate's sacred sword, passed down throughgenerations.

"By this sword, defend our realm," he declared. Eunchae grasped the hilt, feeling the weight of responsibility.

"Tenka no kokoro, Eunchae-sama," Riki
whispered, his eyes locked on hers.
("The heavens' heart, Lady Eunchae.")

The assembly echoed, "Tenka no kokoro
Eunchae-sama!"

The ceremony concluded with Eunchae's oath

"I,Eunchae, swear loyalty to the Emperor, our people, and our ancestors. May my reign bring harmony and prosperity."

The hall erupted in applause, cheers, and whispers of admiration.

With the sacred sword at her side, Eunchae rose from her throne, surveying the sea of faces before her.

"My noble lords, honored samurai, and
esteemed guests," she began, her voice clear and authoritative. "Today marks a new era. Our realm faces challenges, but together, we shall overcome them."

Eunchae's gaze swept the hall, meeting the eyes of her loyal retainers, Riki among them.

"We will strengthen our alliances, modernize our armies, and ensure justice for all. Our people's prosperity is our greatest priority."

The assembly applauded, nodding in approval.

Eunchae's voice took on a resolute tone.

"We will not tolerate corruption, nor will we shy from necessary change. Our ancestors legacy demands wisdom, courage, and unity.'

Riki's eyes shone with pride, his fist clenched in silent affirmation

Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows, catching Eunchae's attention.

Lord Shinoda, a powerful daimyo, stepped forward, his expression unreadable.

Lord Shinoda's eyes narrowed, his voice
dripping with disdain. "Eunchae-sama, yourwords are bold, but can a woman truly lead our realm?"

The assembly murmured, some nodding inagreement. Eunchae's grip on the sacred sword tightened.

"I am the chosen successor, Lord Shinoda,' she replied, her voice steady. "My gender does not define my ability to rule."

Shinoda snorted. "The ancient ways dictate-'

Eunchae interrupted, her tone firm. "The
ancient ways also speak of wisdom, justice,and compassion. I will not be swayed by prejudice."

Sealed Love 封印の愛 "Fūin no Ai" ( a chaemura au)Where stories live. Discover now