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The King sat in his study room, his expression a mix of anger and regret. The room, dimly lit by a few flickering candles, echoed with the weight of his thoughts. On the walls hung tapestries depicting grand battles and ancient kings, the rich red and gold colors muted by time. The heavy wooden desk, cluttered with scrolls and royal edicts, added to the somber atmosphere. A single window, draped with dark velvet curtains, allowed only a sliver of moonlight to cast a faint glow on the room. His thoughts lingered on the Queen's words, haunting him with each passing moment.
"The ministers are trying to use the prince as a pawn. For how long will they succeed in getting rid of the royals?"
"Your Majesty, haven't you ever wished you could turn back time and bring back our child? The ministers have always succeeded in eliminating anyone who proves a threat to their power," the Queen's words echoed in his mind.
The King sighed, massaging his temples, allowing his thoughts to wander back to the night of the incident.
The King stared into the empty air, the tense atmosphere in the room adding to the fury burning inside him. His knuckles tightened, and he fought against the tears threatening to fall.
"Your Majesty, Loyal Subject Joonho truly protected the Queen until the very end," Lord Shikryeom said, the meaning behind his grave words as clear as day.
The King stormed toward him in a fit of rage. "What do you mean?" he growled, his fiery gaze locking onto Lord Shikryeom.
"Your Majesty, the Queen and Subject Joonho always shared a special bond, known to all."
In a blind rage, the King nearly drew his sword, his guards at the ready, their swords poised to strike. The sound of their readiness rang through the stillness of the night.
"Did you dare accuse the Queen of flirting with Subject Joonho?" the King yelled.
How long would Lord Shikryeom continue his ambitious game? How long would he play the role of a clear villain until he got his hands on the throne? The King felt helpless, torn between his duty and his love. Hadn't Lord Shikryeom done enough? The King felt like a mere figurehead while his ministers made all the decisions.
Lord Shikryeom raised his head slightly, meeting the King's eyes.
"Your Majesty, for what reason would Subject Joonho risk his life and the lives of his family to go against you?"
"Could it really just be for selfish reasons?"
The King dropped his sword, the weight of the minister's words sinking in.
Should he protect his Queen, or save his subjects and destroy both? If he allowed the Queen to be mocked, would he lose her forever? The King's heart grew heavy, torn by the decision.
(End of Flashback)
The King clasped his hands on the table, his frustration palpable. He called out to Eunuch Ho.
"Yes, Your Majesty?" Eunuch Ho answered, rushing in.
"Get the Third Prince," the King ordered.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Eunuch Ho said with a brief curtsey before leaving to carry out the King's command.
The King stared into the empty space. No matter what, he would ensure that a king was raised—one who could protect his loved ones and his people, a king who would not be swayed by the ministers' manipulative threats. A king who would make decisions without fear.
He would raise that king for the people who had always believed in him.