The Eunuch Who Guards the Crown Prince's Bed novel · Chapter 21 of 24

Chapter 21: The Throne Room

They held the court in the Hall of Government, under the empty throne.

It was a vast chamber of red pillars and a floor of black brick, with a screen of five painted peaks behind the dais.

That morning there was not an inch left to stand.

Ministers stood in rank, and clerks along the walls.

The rest of the regency council huddled at the left, without their chief.

Seok-woo stood at the foot of the pillar nearest the dais, in a borrowed black coat.

His father's sword hung at his belt, and Yeon-hwa's hand was clamped around his elbow.

The wound pulled at every breath.

She had threatened to tie him to the bed if he came.

He had threatened to carry her if she didn't.

On the dais, under the screen, sat the Queen Dowager in her chair.

Hyeon stood below her at the foot of the throne, in the red robes of the Crown Prince.

He had not slept.

His face was composed and pale and very beautiful.

The mark of Seok-woo's fist had faded from his cheek.

The Minister of Rites read the petition.

It was long.

It spoke of the need for an heir and the dignity of the throne.

It spoke of the six ladies of good family waiting in the east pavilion, and of the need for a Crown Princess before the crown could be placed.

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