Chapter 49 A Bronze talking to a GOLD

--- Imperial Crown Prince Siagu's POV ---

--- Inside the Carriage ---

--- 14th of March 1897 ----

While I gazed upon the appearance of Senior Eunuch Aruna Bhattacharya, my attention shifted to his attire. Similar to Radhesh, Senior Eunuch Aruna Bhattacharya was dressed in a plain, unassuming sonmin in brown. However, this seemingly simple garment was adorned with intricate patterns of silver flowers and curves.

This brought to mind a previous lesson I had with Senior Eunuch Isagani regarding the intricate hierarchy of the courtiers who served our family. It was a hierarchy so deeply ingrained that its removal had the potential to shake the very foundations of the imperial household.

The act of donning the traditional sonmin, and the subsequent removal of the belt and sablai, symbolized the status of these individuals as servants of the imperial family and other nobles within the empire. In contrast to our family, which employed hundreds of courtiers to manage our properties and daily affairs, the nobility had a much smaller retinue who primarily handled household chores.

Yet, within the courtiers' hierarchy, the intricacies were astounding. The patterns and colors embroidered on their garments served as indicators of their status and position in the courtier hierarchy.

For instance, a plain brown or grey sonmin, adorned with intricate golden patterns of flowers and curves, along with the addition of a golden earring, was a distinction reserved for the Head Eunuch and Head Court Lady. The golden earring signified their roles as the leaders of all the courtiers in the imperial family. Presently, the Head Eunuch was Senior Eunuch Isagani del Cruz, while the Head Court Lady was Putri Chaya of Sipitang.

The Head Eunuch, in this case, Senior Eunuch Isagani del Cruz, supervised all the eunuchs serving our family. He also oversaw the selection process for any new courtiers applying to work within our family's domain. Furthermore, he was tasked with educating me and my siblings about the intricate hierarchical system of the courtiers. But above all else, Senior Eunuch Isagani's primary duty was to assist my father in his role as the emperor of our nation.

The Head Court Lady, who is Putri Chaya of Sipitang, has a crucial role in our family's court. Similar to the Senior Eunuch Isagani, she supervises all the court ladies working for our family. Her responsibilities also include teaching me and my siblings about tea etiquette and proper posture. However, her primary duty is to assist my papa in his role as the emperor, especially by preparing his daily clothing and other necessary arrangements.

In our court, there can only be one Head Eunuch and one Head Court Lady at a time. These positions are held until retirement. Once the current office holder steps down, the current monarch has the authority to choose their successor.

Distinctive attire, such as plain brown or grey-colored sonmin with intricate silver patterns of flowers and curves, along with silver earrings, is reserved for Senior Courtiers. These courtiers come from different branches within our family's court. In sequential order, these branches include assistants to the Head Eunuch and Court Lady, the Keeper of the Imperial Seal, heads of the Imperial Ceremonies, head attendants of the monarch's spouse and children, heads of the kitchen, heads of the laundry, heads of the imperial gardeners, and heads of the entertainers and musicians.

Each of these branches has its own subordinates, and the role of Senior Eunuchs and Court Ladies within these offices is to oversee and provide guidance to their subordinates. They are also responsible for maintaining discipline and ensuring that the proper etiquettes are observed when dealing with members of the imperial family, other nobles, and government officials.

The commands of the Senior Eunuchs and Court Ladies are considered law by their subordinates. Most of these commands come from the Head Eunuch and Court Lady, although individuals like the Keeper of the Imperial Seal and heads of the Imperial Ceremonies only heed the orders of the emperor and the core members of the imperial family.

Normal courtiers, who make up the majority of the courtiers working in our family, wear plain brown or grey-colored sonmin with red intricate patterns of flowers and curves, along with red earrings. These courtiers perform a wide range of tasks, including kitchen work, cleaning the palaces, gardening, and stewardship.

They play a vital role in the functioning of the imperial palace, always obediently following the commands of those in higher positions. Without them, the palace would not be clean and organized. Their importance is underscored by the fact that their living quarters, known as the Residence of Michael, are named after St. Michael the Archangel and located just a short walk from our family's main quarters.

Furthermore, plain brown or grey attire, known as sonmin, and green-colored intricate patterns featuring flowers and curves are reserved for junior courtiers. This is where every courtier of the imperial palace begins their journey. Only a few manage to bypass this initial stage. These courtiers include the children of existing courtiers and those of noble descent who wish to provide their offspring with training in the imperial palace.

Their primary responsibility is to execute the orders of their superiors and perform their assigned tasks in their respective areas. Noble status doesn't grant any special privileges among the junior courtiers; all are considered equal in the eyes of the Head Eunuch and Court Lady. The only exception to this rule is the imperial family, who receive special treatment within the complex.

This entire system is rooted in the courtier system established during the late age of the clan era. Later, it was expanded during the reign of the Rajahs. It's a centuries-old tradition that our nation continues to uphold.

"But, Senior Eunuch Aruna, we are allowed to use the vehicle inside the imperial city," I pointed out.

"Indeed, sir," he replied.

Sigh... Sometimes, dealing with these courtiers can be quite a challenge. Killjoy.

Losing interest in our conversation, I shifted my focus back to the road, observing the local people as they went about their daily routines. It's always astonishing to witness the beauty of tradition and its people. I'd describe them as conservative and refined, especially the women.

After a few minutes on our journey, we arrived at the gates of the Baltso Palace. This palace was constructed during the reign of Rajah Siagu X and served as his retreat from the imperial complex when he grew bored.

The Baltso Palace boasts architectural designs influenced by the Butuanon people. Fifty percent of its structure is made of wood while the other fifty percent of its structure is composed of stones and bricks. While the structure remained intact and well-preserved, the surrounding landscape showed signs of gradual decay, which was understandable, given that the palace's perimeter was established in the 18th century, making it almost 200 years old. The palace itself was quite extensive, not to mention the gardens located behind it.

Over the years, renovations and restorations have been carried out to preserve the appearance and historical significance of the Batlso Palace, which remains one of the most important palaces for the Imperial Family. This palace stands as a testament to the enduring growth and prosperity of the Rajahnate. Additionally, within the Baltso Palace, there is an urn that holds the ashes of Rajah Siagu X and his wife, along with several other members of the Imperial Clan, who rest in the mausoleum located behind the palace.

As we approached the palace's entrance, a silhouette appeared in the distance. It was Prince Yeong, running towards us, with his courtiers in pursuit.

"Mai-mai!" Prince Yeong called out as he raced toward our group.

Upon hearing Yeong's voice, I glanced at my sister, who was now giggling while gazing at her fiancé. A mischievous thought crossed my mind.

"You can go to him now, Mai-mai," I suggested, prompting my younger sister to sprint towards Prince Yeong. Her courtiers followed in haste, resembling Prince Yeong's own entourage.

Laughter erupted from my lips as I watched their amusing antics.

"That's not very kind, sir," Radhesh commented calmly, now standing behind me.

His words caused me to stop laughing and turn my attention back to him, adopting a composed and unruffled expression.

"I know... but a simple laugh can't harm me," I replied before following my sister towards the palace. She had finally reunited with Yeong after several months of separation.

Happiness and delight were evident on both Prince Yeong's and her faces. They had truly missed each other's company, and their bond had continued to grow since Prince Yeong's arrival in the palace.

"Ah, Little Siagu, I'm glad you're here with your sister," a deep and gentle voice suddenly sounded from behind Prince Yeong. As I turned to look, I saw it was King Gojong of Joseon, accompanied by his wife, concubines, and their courtiers.

"I greet King Gojong and his entire family," I respectfully stated before bowing, followed by my courtiers and my sister's attendants. The hall of the Baltso palace resounded with voices of satisfaction and delight.

"Hahahaha! You truly exceed my expectations, young one. Your grace and knowledge of etiquette surpass those your age. Should I presume that this is expected due to the upbringing of the imperial house of Butuan and House Pangasinan?" King Gojong chuckled. "Madam?"

Madam? Who could he be referring to?

My questions were answered when a familiar voice reached my ears.

"Of course, that is the case, Your Majesty," the familiar voice stated with satisfaction, just behind King Gojong's family. Before I could discern who it was, my little sister suddenly exclaimed, "Lola!" and rushed toward our grandmother, who was now standing beside King Gojong's family.

"Your Grace," my and Little Mai-mai's courtiers greeted Lola unanimously. She smiled gently at me, extending her hands in welcome.

"What? No hugs for your Lola?" She joked, feigning an upset expression.

A smile lit up my face as I ran to embrace her. Although I was confused about why Lola was here, those questions and concerns were pushed aside by how much I had missed her.

Lola was like a second mother to me. She had been there to watch over me during my early years, offering guidance and discipline when I made mistakes. She had taught me the importance of family for a monarch and why it needed to be protected. She was the reason I had become who I was today.

This was why I missed her so much. Since she didn't live with us in the imperial complex, I rarely got to see her. It had been almost a month since I last saw her, and according to Mama, she was currently on vacation in the island of Palau, enjoying the privileges of being a dowager.

"But it looks like she is wrong, but I have no complaints about that. As long as she is here now, I am okay with that.

"I miss you, Lola," I stated while hugging her tightly.

"Hehehe… I miss you too," she replied while giggling.

"Ahem… Shall we enter then?" King Gojong offered, making me and my little sister, who is still hugging our grandmother, separate from her, and followed King Gojong as we entered the Baltso Palace.

While we made our way towards the main hall of the palace, Lola and I kept chatting with each other while Mai-mai is currently being entertained by the entire family of Prince Yeong. They pampered her because of her cuteness and beauty.

Apparently, my Lola was really at the Island of Palau a few weeks ago to have her vacation, but after a week or two there, she decided to return back here to the capital and have a chat with King Gojong and his entire family. According to her, she is only doing this to ensure that my little sister will have a suitable family to cater to her needs.

She even did this at Princess Khao's family when she was in Siam. Her encounter with Khao and her family back then made her come to the conclusion that she was raised in a family of comparable stature and prestige. To her, friendship should not always be the sole basis of marriage; it should also consider the background and prestige of the other individual.

I also found out that she has just arrived here at the Baltso Palace along with her two attendants.

After a few minutes of walking through the hallways of the palace, we finally arrived at the main hall. A total of 21 golden cushions were placed on the floor of the hall, 19 of which were for King Gojong, his consorts, and his three children and their wives, while the other two were for me and my Lola.

Mai-mai, Yeong, and their courtiers were in the garden spending time together. They were also accompanied by the eighth son of King Gojong, namely, Yi Ju-chan. He is not called a prince because of his mother's background.

As we all take our seats, a fascinating scene unfolds in front of me. This scene is further explained by my Lalo after noticing my curiosity about what is happening before me.

Only the first two cushions are occupied, and they are reserved for King Gojong himself. The third cushion, however, remains untouched. This seat is meant for Queen Myeongseong, his first wife. In my previous world, he was so loyal to his first wife that he even declared her empress when he established Joseon as an Empire of Korea, even though Queen Myeongseong was already deceased.

His love for her is truly remarkable. It's an exceptional love story, particularly in the context of Asian monarchy, especially in a polygamous society.

Behind King Gojong's and the late Queen Myeongseong's seats is the seat of Eon Seon-yeong, Royal Noble Consort Sunheon of the Yeongwol Eom Clan. She is the mother of Prince Yeong and soon to be my sister's mother-in-law. She is the only person seated behind King Gojong, emphasizing her higher status among the other consorts. She is wearing her hanbok in grace and elegance, worthy of being a noble descent and being educated thoroughly by the courtiers.

Behind her are the twelve remaining concubines of King Gojong, arranged according to their hierarchy among the concubines. However, what caught my attention is the presence of King Gojong's three children, each of them seated behind their respective mothers.

The first two individuals are Princess Uisuk (Princess Yi Geung), who is in her early twenties, radiating calm, beauty, and elegance while adorned in her hanbok. This is my first time seeing her since, in my previous world, I had not come across any photographs of her. Her beauty is so striking that I can't help but wonder why she chose not to marry during that time.

Then there's Prince Uihwa (Prince Yi Kang), also in his twenties, exuding seriousness and maturity. Despite his youth, he possesses a captivating charm that drew the attention of numerous women in his era, allowing him to have more than ten wives. He, too, wears his hanbok with pride and elegance.

Both of them are seated behind their mother, Royal Consort Jang of the Deoksu Jang Clan, who ranks third among the twelve concubines of King Gojong, not including the late Queen and Imperial Noble Consort Sunheon. Royal Consort Jang of the Deoksu Jang Clan is also dressed in her hanbok, adorned with jewelry befitting her esteemed status.

Prince Uihwa is currently married to Princess Kim (Lady Kim) of Deokindang Hall, and she is sitting behind Prince Uihwa with elegance and poise while wearing her hanbok. Princess Uisuk, on the other hand, remains unmarried despite being nearly 22 years old, much like in my past life.

Yi Ju-won, aged around 10 or 11, is seated behind his mother, Park Mi-suk, who holds the title of Royal Consort Gwi-in of the Hong Clan.

Yi Ju-won is dressed in his hanbok, which is simpler compared to that of Prince Yi Kang but more extravagant than the hanbok worn by individuals of lower status. Despite his young age, he displays discipline and elegance, befitting the son of a king.

Park Mi-suk, Royal Consort Gwi-in of the Hong Clan, carries herself with grace and dignity, clearly indicating her status as the Royal Consort of King Gojong. Her hanbok suits her perfectly, complementing her beautiful face.

Their seating arrangement reflects their status and rank within the hierarchy of the royal household in the Joseon Kingdom. Even their hairpins are symbolic of their positions within the court, not to mention their hanbok, which is meticulously tailored to match their ranks. The more opulent the hanbok, the higher the wearer's status.

After a few minutes of light-hearted conversation, filled with laughter, King Gojong breaks the silence that had settled over the entire hall since they took their seats.

"How have you been these past few weeks, Little Siagu? Have your studies been going well? Judging by your expression, I presume they have," King Gojong remarks with a warm smile.

"I'm doing well, sir. My studies have been challenging, but I can manage everything except my martial arts training," I confidently respond, earning chuckles from my grandmother and King Gojong himself.

"Hahahaha! Your response reminds me of my own experience when I was studying martial arts at a young age. It brings back memories," King Gojong says with a hearty laugh.

"Hehehe. It's quite normal for future monarchs to go through this. Martial arts teach patience and perseverance, important qualities for all of us," Lola Jayanti adds, giggling.

"Indeed. I couldn't agree more, Lady Jayanti. Even my son, Prince Uihwa, went through rigorous training when he was a child," King Gojong nods. "My other son, Jun-won, is about to begin his martial arts training a bit late due to recent events, but it's better late than never."

"I agree. So, when do you plan to let Prince Yeong begin his martial arts training?" Lola Jayanti inquires, causing King Gojong to look at her with a puzzled expression.

"What do you mean, Lady Jayanti?" King Gojong replies calmly.

"Lola…" I mutter in an attempt to dissuade her from continuing, but my words aren't enough to deter her. She's not known for her timidity; she's one of the most powerful nobles in the empire for a reason.

"Just as I said, Your Majesty. Prince Yeong is at an age where he can begin his martial arts training. This training is essential to prepare him for his future role as the monarch of Joseon," Lola Jayanti calmly states, her gaze fixed on King Gojong.

My grandmother's words make me tense up, not because of her seriousness but because of the implications. By suggesting that martial arts training will prepare Prince Yeong to be the monarch, she's essentially implying that the male children of King Gojong who have remained loyal to him have been overlooked as potential successors. Her statement is a significant blow to the seniority of Prince Uihwa and Prince Jun-won.

In contrast to the succession law in the Empire of Butuan, where the eldest male child of the monarch automatically inherits the throne, the Joseon Kingdom's succession law is much more intricate. King Gojong had a grave expression upon hearing my grandmother's words.

"If I were you, Dowager Duchess, I would choose my words carefully in the presence of His Majesty," advised Royal Consort Jang, the mother of Prince Uihwa and Princess Uisuk, from the esteemed Deoksu Jang Clan.

My grandmother did not take kindly to Royal Consort Jang's remarks, earning her a series of threatening glares. This was a misstep for a royal consort with a questionable lineage. My grandmother placed a strong emphasis on social status and was vehemently against her family members marrying commoners. She oversaw the marriages of her children and grandchildren for this very reason.

Although she enjoyed mingling with common people, marrying into their ranks was an entirely different matter. In her eyes, it was more acceptable for a noble to remain unmarried and join the temple of Butuan, leading a celibate life, than to wed a commoner with an uncertain background.

"Heh! A commoner lecturing nobility? How pathetic. In this conversation about the future monarch of the Joseon Kingdom, it is you who should maintain a respectful silence. We're not discussing dirty dishes or laundry," Lola Jayanti retorted with a mocking tone directed at Royal Consort Jang.

My grandmother's response stunned those in the hall, except for myself, King Gojong, Eon Seon-yeong, Royal Noble Consort Sunheon of the Yeongwol Eom Clan, Prince Uihwa, and Princess Uisuk. The three of us managed to maintain our composure after hearing her response.

However, what piqued my interest was the slight smirk on Royal Noble Consort Sunheon's face. It seemed she was relishing my grandmother's criticisms of Royal Consort Jang.

Despite our indifference, Royal Consort Jang's face turned beet red with embarrassment upon being reminded of her common lineage.

"YOU--!!" she exclaimed, on the brink of exploding in anger, but once again, my grandmother interjected.

"What? Forgive me, Your Majesty, for saying this, but I must speak the truth. Royal Consort Jang, you are just a mere royal consort who was promoted from the status of a lady, not to mention you were a commoner. On the other hand, Prince Yeong's mother, Royal Noble Consort Sunheon, hails from a noble descent, and I think you know that status is very important in the Joseon court.

Oh? Your children are no match for the birthright that young Prince Yeong possesses. And I believe both of them understand that," Lola Jayanti stated, pointing towards Prince Uihwa and Princess Uisuk. This action drew Royal Consort Jang's attention to her children, who remained silent behind her.

"Your children are much smarter than you, Royal Consort. Despite their age, they already comprehend their status in the royal house of Yi, a concept you, as a royal consort, should have been aware of. Whether you like it or not, Prince Yeong is the one destined to succeed His Majesty. And I think… he agrees with that, am I right, Your Majesty?" Lola Jayanti said, smiling toward King Gojong, who had now calmed and was grinning, his eyes closed. Royal Noble Consort Sunheon's face wore a similar smile, and some of King Gojong's concubines were also seen smiling.

"Y-your Majesty?" Royal Consort Jang stammered, looking at the back of King Gojong as she rose from her cushion.

"Mother…" Princess Uisuk gently uttered as she gazed at her mother, a reflection of what Prince Uihwa was also doing.

While this scene played out before me, I did nothing but watch. Popcorn should have been invented in this era, as arguments like these are far more entertaining to witness than the useless dramas about mistress nonsense.

"You should take your seat, Royal Consort Jang of the Deoksu Clan. Your unsightly outburst is already showing disrespect to our esteemed guest," calmly remarked Royal Noble Consort Sunheon, without even batting an eye at Royal Consort Jang.

--

Note 1: I have changed the name of Princess Yi Geung to Princess Uisuk to match the status of her younger brother, Prince Uihwa.

Note 2: I have also decided to change the word in regards of the Houses. Instead of calling the noble houses in the Empire of Butuan as Houses, I have decided to change it into Clan/s this is in connection on how the Southeast Asian and Asian Royal families call their noble and royal family.