NABI
Jang Hyewon was the daughter of a noble bloodline, though their bloodline was all that was left. After her parents' deaths, Hyewon lived with her uncle and his family in a loving environment. Until the Royal Edict came. Women from high-ranking families from across the Empire were called to the palace to participate in the First Princess Consort contest. It was the last thing Hyewon wanted to do, but she had no choice. Upon her arrival at the palace, her life would take a completely unexpected turn as she was plunged into the machinations of royal family politics. She would start as a consort-to-be for Yi Gong, the Crown Prince, but end in the hands of his older brother, Yi Shin, as his assassin in the shadows. When she finally meets Yi Gong again, how would their past feelings interfere with the plans Yi Shin had for her?
Prologue
There never seemed to be peace within the Royal Family.
Hyewon gasped for air as he continuously came at her with his sword. She could barely make any movement other than to defend herself against his attacks. His eyes were filled with rage and despair. That was to be expected. After what she had done to him.
There never seemed to be an innocent moment within the Royal Family.
"You were supposed to be the one," he yelled at her. "We were going to be together; we were going to rule together! How could you?" Hyewon could see his eyes beginning to tear up, hers similarly tearing up. How did it come to this, she wondered. Because she had chosen to betray him. That's how.
There never seemed to be clear intentions within the Royal Family.
At Hyewon's persistent silence, he let out a frustrated growl and threw his sword down. Hyewon let her own sword slip out of her grasp. He quickly closed the distance between them and grabbed her face in his hands, bringing their faces inches apart. They stood there for what seemed like ages, just staring into each other's eyes, tears building up.
There never seemed to be a place for her within the Royal Family.
"You will be the end of me," he whispered gently, his voice filled with sorrow as he kissed her. Hyewon closed her eyes once she felt his lips on hers, her tears escaping from her eyes, her arms coming up to pull him closer to her. She had broken this man.
She should not have come to the Royal Family.