King & Kween Kang (The Rise Of Kang's #1)

Chapter 19

Cultural Exchange

As the Advisors to King Tae-Han of Korea and the Wisemen to Queen Asora of Jamaica gathered for a meeting in the Changdeokgung Hall, they were aware of the need to establish a strong foundation of understanding and cooperation. Both parties realized that their respective cultures held unique traditions and perspectives that would require open-mindedness and flexibility to navigate.

The meeting began with the Korean advisors taking the initiative to discuss an aspect of their culture that they knew might be met with resistance. With tact and sensitivity, they broached the subject of the king having concubines, a practice considered normal in Korea. "In Korea, it is quite common for the king to have concubines," Advisor Jang-su said, his voice carrying a tone of normalcy.

The Wisemen exchanged glances, clearly taken aback by this revelation. Wiseman Hugh leaned over to Wisewoman Lydia and whispered, "This might not sit well with Queen Asora."

They knew that such a concept would not sit well with Queen Asora, and it was clear that a conversation would be necessary. Wiseman Hugh suggested that Wisewoman Lydia, known for her diplomacy and wisdom, should undertake this delicate task of discussing the matter with the queen.

In turn, the Wisemen from Jamaica took the opportunity to shed light on the diverse makeup of their country. They explained to the Advisors that Jamaica was a melting pot, not limited to the black population alone. "Jamaica is a melting pot of cultures, with people of various ethnic backgrounds residing here." Wisemen Japh signed while Wisewomen Lydia explained. "We have individuals of African, European, Spanish, and Asian descent, all contributing to the rich tapestry of our society." The Advisors also exchanged glances and spoke amongst themselves, expressing fascination at the harmonious coexistence of different ethnicities within Jamaica.

As the conversation continued, the Korean Advisors opened up about the consequences of dishonesty in their previous council. "The previous set of advisors faced severe consequences for lying and withholding information from the king," Advisor Do-Joon said, aware that he helped the King punish them all. "Trust is of utmost importance here, and any act of deception is met with severe retribution." This revelation served as a reminder to both parties about the significance of honesty and the trust that needed to be fostered between them.

Moved by the advisors' candor, Wisemen Tae-Joon shared an emotional aspect of Queen Asora's life. "Queen Asora holds a special place in the hearts of our people. She is not only the first Queen of Jamaica but also someone who has endured immense tragedy. Her family was lost to betrayal and slaughter during the reign of the previous king. You may not know it yet, but Wisemen Hugh is actually her uncle, her only living family." The advisors listened intently, their expressions filled with empathy and understanding, they also made sure to note how Wisemen Hugh may have a slight pull on how Queen Asora may think or what decisions she makes.

After a couple of hours of talking, despite some differences, the meeting ultimately brought the Advisors to King Tae-Han and the Wisemen to Queen Asora closer together. As the meeting drew to a close, the Wisemen of Queen Asora and the Advisors of King Tae-Han took a moment to exchange their thoughts on how they perceived the royal couple individually and as a pair. Their conversation shed light on their observations and highlighted their distinct perspectives.

Wisewomen Lydia initiated the conversation, turning to the advisors with a warm smile. "I must say, King Tae-Han is a remarkable individual. He carries himself with such dignity and grace."

Wisemen Tae-Joon nodded in agreement. "Indeed, the King possesses exceptional leadership qualities. His dedication to the welfare of his kingdom is commendable."

Wisemen Judias interjected, his expression pensive. "It's interesting, though. I've heard whispers that King Tae-Han has a reputation for being possessive and somewhat tyrannical. Yet, in our interactions, he seems quite normal and content. Is there any truth to those rumors?"

Advisor Jangsu sighed, his gaze shifting for a brief moment. "To be honest, we cannot entirely dismiss those rumors, as they have circulated before. However, it seems that the King has found a sense of happiness and peace now. Perhaps being with Queen Asora has brought about a change in him. But it remains to be seen how possessive he truly is."

Wisewomen Lydia listened intently, a furrow forming on her brow. "So, you're saying that the Queen might not be fully aware of his possessiveness until he believes someone has taken what he considers his, including her?"

Advisor Jang-su nodded solemnly. "Indeed, there is a possibility that the Queen might encounter certain challenges due to the King's possessiveness. We can only hope that their love and understanding will guide them through any difficulties they may face."

Wisewomen Japh pondered their responses for a moment before asking a probing question. "If the King's possessiveness is known, why is he acting so 'normal' now? Could it be a facade? And will Queen Asora be able to maintain her independence and freedom as our Queen too? Outside of being a wife to King Tae-Han?" Wisemen Hugh voiced.

Advisor Daru sighed, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "We do not have a definitive answer for that. In the beginning, his intentions for marriage were well..."

Daru thought back to when the King was going to overturn the country his wife would come from like the previous advisors said to, but he also remembered how before the Queen arrived how the King wanted to try and be different than how his father or how he wanted to act at times.

"...Let's just say we know the King has learned from past mistakes and is trying to create a healthier dynamic with Queen Asora. However, no matter what his intentions are, we do not wish war at all, so if we see anything that may seem suspicious from him we will tell you, and we ask that you do the same. While we serve two different people, all of our jobs is to put our nations ahead of everything."

The room fell into contemplative silence as both parties recognized the complexity of the situation. They understood the need for caution and vigilance in navigating the delicate balance between love, power, and possessiveness.

Wisewomen Lydia broke the silence, her voice filled with genuine curiosity. "Tell us, how do you view Queen Asora? I don't think I've heard too much," She joked.

Advisor Jangsu's face lit up with a smile. "Queen Asora is an extraordinary woman. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her people are truly admirable. She possesses a wisdom that belies her years, and her compassionate nature resonates with everyone she encounters."

Advisor Do-Joon added, his eyes sparkling with admiration. "Indeed, the Queen's ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds is a testament to her charismatic leadership. She embodies the spirit of Jamaica and radiates an aura of grace and elegance."

Wisewomen Tae-Joon nodded appreciatively. "It is reassuring to know that Queen Asora is held in such high regard. With her leadership and your King's, we can only hope for a prosperous future for both our nations. Right?"

Everyone nodded their heads in agreement, and so the conversation came to a natural conclusion as the Advisors and Wisemen prepared to part ways, each returning to their respective tasks with newfound insights and a shared commitment to protecting the King and Queen.