The Royal palanquin pulled up to the Ryu military residence, it's golden embroidery gleaming under the midday sun.Stepping down from it was Ryu Seol Na,the Queen of Jocheon. Her porcelain-like skin glowing under the gentle rays of the sun exuding a delicate radiance.
The house keeper rushed out of the residence greeting her with a deep bow before respectfully informing her.
"The Minister awaits your arrival in the garden". Giving the house keeper a slight nod in acknowledgment she made her way through the familiar pathways of the residence she had spent her childhood.
Arriving at the garden a smile graced her lips in satisfaction at the scenery. The cherry blossoms perfectly pruned, had some of it's petals falling slowing making the atmosphere feel dreamy. The wild flower bushes were well kept giving the garden a vibrant burst of color. Finally the narrow lake was tranquil with the water lilies in different shades dancing across it's surface.The garden, her late mother's beloved had always been meticulously cared for by her father all these years.
Talking about her father she scanned the scenery, spotting his silhouette at the pavilion built over the lake, his frame bent over the rail as he gazed down at the water immersed in his thoughts.
She was quite surprised he had invited her to the residence when he could have easily dropped by her quarters after the Royal court session. But she understood that whatever he wished to say, was for her ears alone.
Making her way toward him, her soft footsteps made little to no sound, but he still sensed her approach.
"How is the palace treating you Seol Na?",he asked turning towards her with a warm smile.
"Abeoji…"She stepped forward embracing him tightly.
"You look beautiful as always Seol Na", his voice gentle. Just like your mother" he murmured, his words laced with yearning.
"C'mon let's eat,before the food cools down,I had the kitchen prepare your favorites.",he told her as they made their way to the table full of food,Seol Na's smile widen as the smell of the dish hit her nostrils,she had that irrevocable feeling of nostalgia as she dug into the food.
After Lunch,the servants cleaned out the table,leaving the father and daughter to their discussion.
"You must be wondering why we returned to the capital so early."
"Yes,father,",her curiosity sharpened'clearing his throat,Ryu Ji hwan continued.
"Our Defense had taken a big blow months ago after our enemies planted a plague in one of the villages at the outskirts. When we found out about the outbreak. It had already spread into several other villages. The past few months had been spent tirelessly trying to curb it. But Unfortunately for us, our soldiers and physicians stationed there are overwhelmed. But instead of sending more aid,certain court officials are calling to recall our forces.
Seol Na stiffened,"what!,How could they even consider such a thing?".
"Their solution,he grimly said,is to burn the plague stricken villages,they argue that it's cost effective and will prevent rumors from spreading.But it's cruel Seol Na,inhuman,he expressed.
"The king has not made a decision yet since the Royal court is divided and It's going to be a rough one with Prime Minister Daeho spearheading this agenda to burn down the villages.I've tried speaking with his Majesty,but…"his voice trailed off,his frustration evident."I fear Daeho's influence is at work behind the scenes.The king listens to him more than anyone else,he admitted.
Seol Na felt her blood boiling,anger surging through her veins.Prime Minister Daeho,the name alone brought a bitter taste to her mouth. She long suspected him of harboring his own schemes but this ? killing people to advance his own agenda,was monstrous.
She knew she had to do something,before it was too late,she couldn't just sit idly and watch innocent people lives,be thrown away for his convenience .
Her father's gaze soften,but his voice firm,"That's why I need you to speak with the king,Seol Na.You might have a chance to sway him before it's too late, he requested.
"The king", the words rang in her head for a moment but she shook the thought off.
"Yes father, I will try my best for my people, they are my responsibility after all. She paused then flashed him a tight smile.
"So you don't have to worry too much" she assured him.