Chapter 14: Tea Time

The older Chief Court Lady’s name was Lady Han.

She had served in the palace for twenty-three years. She had managed the Crown Princess’s household through three different women. She had influence with the senior officials, loyalty from the older court ladies, and the particular power that comes from being indispensable and knowing everyone’s secrets.

Until Sena appointed Jiyeon as Chief Gungnyeo.

Lady Han had reacted with barely concealed fury. She had not openly challenged the appointment — she was too experienced for that. But she had begun spreading doubts in the subtle ways that court ladies perfected. Questioning Jiyeon’s judgment. Suggesting that Sena was too young to manage her own household. Implying that the new arrangement was unstable and wouldn’t last.

The friction was becoming visible enough that other court ladies were noticing it.

Sena decided it was time to resolve the matter.

She sent a formal invitation to Lady Han: tea in the Crown Princess’s private chambers, just the two of them. An honor, essentially. A private audience with the future Empress.

Lady Han accepted. She had no choice.

The chambers were arranged perfectly. A small table with tea service. Cushions positioned for comfort but not too informal. Attendants dismissed to the outer room. The space was private but not isolated — servants were present if needed, but out of earshot.

Lady Han arrived composed and dignified. She bowed correctly. She settled herself across from Sena with the bearing of a woman who had done this a thousand times with different Crown Princesses.

“Your Highness is kind to invite me,” she said formally.

“I wanted to speak with you privately,” Sena said. “I’ve been learning so much about how the household actually functions. The networks, the relationships, the arrangements that have been in place for years. It’s fascinating how much complexity exists beneath the ceremonial side.”