EPISODE 2
QUEEN MIN SUN'S RESIDENCE
Queen Kim Min Sun
(paces the floor, her face flushed with anger)
Prime Minister Kim
(across from her, sits calmly as though the storm in his daughter's heart were nothing but a passing drizzle)
Queen Kim Min Sun
(furious)
Father, How could you let this happen? The king brought that woman into the palace and gave her the title of concubine and I - his lawful Queen - am left disgraced.
Queen Kim Min Sun
The court mocks me behind their sleeves. Do you know what they whisper? That the king's heart beats not for me but for her.
Prime Minister Kim
(His voice was calm, almost dismissive)
Prime Minister Kim
Do not let the whispers of courtiers rattle you. A king’s heart is fickle; a king’s throne is not. Seo Hwa may hold his affection, but you, Min Sun—you hold the crown. That is what matters.
Queen Kim Min Sun
(turned toward her father, her eyes burning with bitterness)
Queen Kim Min Sun
You speak of crowns and thrones, Father, but what of me? Am I nothing more than a seal upon parchment?
Queen Kim Min Sun
You promised me he would be mine! That by wedding him, I would not only rule but also command his devotion. Yet I am treated like a stranger in my own halls.
Prime Minister Kim
(narrowed his eyes, his voice low and stern)
Prime Minister Kim
Foolish child. Did you believe marriage to a king was about love? I placed you beside him to secure our clan’s dominion, not to win his sighs. If you want devotion, keep it locked in your heart.
Prime Minister Kim
If you want survival—remember that your son must inherit that throne. Endure, until the moment comes when you must act.
Queen Kim Min Sun
(Her lips trembled as she lowered her gaze, clutching the silk of her gown in both fists)
Queen Kim Min Sun
Endure? While she walks proudly at his side, while I wither in silence? Father… I cannot bear this shame.
Prime Minister Kim
(his expression hardened; he straightened his back, his tone as cold as iron)
Prime Minister Kim
Then learn to bear it. Or you will lose more than his affection—you will lose everything.
Mark my words, Min Sun.
Seo Hwa’s presence is not the end of you, unless you allow it to be. Watch her. Wait. Strike only when it will matter.
Queen Kim Min Sun
(softly but laced with venom)
I can't be shamed like this. I will return this wound to her, one day.
Prime Minister Kim
(studied her, a calculating smile tugging at the corner of his lips)
Prime Minister Kim
Good. Let that fire burn.
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