An unyielding, tense standoff. Eyes as sharp and cold as ice, devoid of any trace of warmth.

"Starting off strong, I see."  
"They don’t seem uncomfortable with each other at all."

It was their first time exchanging lines together, yet there was nothing ordinary about it. Especially the power struggle between Queen Yoon and Yeongwol—it felt even more intense than expected.

"You talk as if you'd give anything for the Crown Prince if he asked."  
"If my meager life can be of use to His Highness, how could I not?"

One sought to hold the Crown …