Chapter 32: The Justice of the Urakawa's

As the Palace Rules event began, Miharu was ready. She had been taught well by Rin, and the knowledge of the Empire's laws, codes, and even the hidden intricacies of the Imperial system was something she had studied diligently. She understood the surface rules well, but the real challenge came when they started presenting scenarios. Real-life examples that had shaken the Empire—decisions that had led to lives being destroyed, families falling, and political tides shifting.

When the scenario was presented—a noble family's fall during the Official Purge—it struck a chord with Miharu. The Urakawa family. She had been just a child, an illegitimate daughter at the time, when the family fell. The Urakawas had been one of the Empire's most loyal families, but their downfall had been swift and harsh. It was during the Purge that they were accused of treason—an accusation that Miharu knew, deep down, had been false.

Her mind raced as she remembered the night of their downfall. The accusations, the blood, the violence. Her name, though not officially tied to the Urakawas, had been dragged through the mud. The scandal had haunted her for years, a shadow she could never escape.

Miharu was brought back to the present moment as the Empresses asked her to decide on the fate of the noble family in this scenario, based on the conflicting codes that governed the Empire. She felt the weight of the question pressing down on her. What was justice in this case? How could she uphold the codes when they contradicted the truth?

With a deep breath, Miharu began speaking. Her words were measured, her voice steady, but there was a fire in her eyes as she recalled the fate of the Urakawa family.

"The law is absolute, but justice is not always so clear-cut," Miharu began. "If a family like the Urakawas is wrongfully accused and destroyed, then it is the Empire's duty to investigate further, to search for the truth. If their lands were drugged and their minds warped into a frenzy, as I suspect, then the punishment should fall not on them, but on the real culprit. If the laws must be bent to ensure that the truth is uncovered and that justice is served, then that is what must be done."

The room was silent for a moment as Miharu's words hung in the air. She spoke with such conviction, it was as if she had lived through the very scenario being presented. The Empresses exchanged glances, and Miharu felt a quiet recognition in their eyes. She had made her decision: even when the codes clashed, she would always choose the path of justice, even if it meant bending the rules to find it.

As Miharu spoke, the Empresses listened closely. The Azure Empress's eyes softened for a moment, a flicker of recognition passing through her. The story of the Urakawa family was a painful one for the Imperial family, especially for her son, Rin. He had been involved in the investigation and the decision to purge the family, but it was clear now, from the words Miharu had spoken, that she understood the gravity of the situation—understood the weight of the false accusations and the tragic consequences.

The Empresses remembered Rin's reaction when he had learned that the fate of the Urakawa family had been sealed before his investigation had been completed. He had slammed the papers on the Emperor's desk in frustration, unable to accept that such a loyal family had been treated unjustly. He had fought for them, but the decision had already been made. The papers on the table had already been signed. He had failed to protect them, and he had known it. His anger had been palpable, and he had withdrawn from the court for a week afterward, unable to speak to anyone.

The story of the Urakawa family had been one of the many that haunted Rin's conscience, as he had been the one who initiated the Official Purge in an effort to uncover traitors within the Empire. Yet, despite his best efforts, the Urakawa family's files had gone missing. It was only much later that Rin discovered the truth—that they had been poisoned, their minds manipulated by someone within the Empire itself. When Rin finally discovered the true traitor, he had dealt with them in his own way—mercilessly. The traitor had died a brutal death, tortured until their last breath.

The Empresses knew this story, of course, but hearing Miharu speak about the Urakawa family, with such empathy and understanding, made them realize that Miharu had more in common with Rin than they had initially realized. Rin, the first son of the Azure Empress, had a deep sense of justice—he could not allow the innocent to suffer, no matter what the laws of the Empire dictated. He had always acted behind the scenes, quietly gathering information to expose the truth, even if it meant defying the very system he had once sworn to uphold.

After Miharu's answer, the Empresses remained silent, deep in thought. The scenario had not been an easy one to solve. It was a test of both intelligence and compassion, and Miharu had passed it with flying colors. She had not only demonstrated a deep understanding of the law, but also a clear sense of right and wrong, something that the Empresses knew would be crucial for any future consort of the Emperor.

They exchanged looks, and then the White Empress spoke, her voice calm yet firm. "Miharu, your answer shows a deep understanding of the complexities of our laws. But more importantly, it shows that you have the heart of a ruler—someone who can see beyond the codes and truly seek justice for those who deserve it."

The other Empresses nodded in agreement, their faces thoughtful. They knew that the Imperial family needed someone who could challenge the system, someone who could bend the rules when necessary to protect the Empire and its people.

Sayuri, the first candidate, was a picture of calm composure as the scenario was presented. Unlike Miharu, who had a personal connection to the situation, Sayuri approached the question analytically. She had spent years learning the intricacies of the Empire's laws, and her response was focused on the technicalities of the code, seeking to navigate the gray areas of justice by sticking strictly to the written law.

She answered by emphasizing the importance of the rule of law and order. "The codes must be followed," Sayuri began, her voice smooth and unwavering. "In cases where one's loyalty is in question, it is essential to uphold the law for the stability of the Empire. However, we must also consider mitigating factors and act with discretion when necessary to preserve the integrity of the court and the Empire's reputation."

She was tactful in her response, presenting a more detached view, highlighting the need for loyalty and discipline within the Empire. However, there was something slightly impersonal about her answer. It was clear that while she understood the law, she lacked the emotional depth that Miharu had displayed when talking about the Urakawa family's downfall.

Sayuri's view of justice was more rigid, bound by the law without much room for empathy. The Empresses listened intently, but the Azure Empress's expression hardened slightly as Sayuri finished. The focus on maintaining order was admirable, but it did not quite match the flexibility and compassion that Miharu had shown. It was a reminder that the path to true leadership required more than just a knowledge of the law—it required a heart that could navigate its complexities and imperfections.

Kiyomi, the second candidate, was known for her rebellious streak. She had a fiery spirit and was not afraid to challenge authority, especially when it came to matters of morality. Her response to the scenario was as bold and passionate as her personality.

Kiyomi stood tall, her eyes blazing with intensity. "Justice is not just about laws. It's about doing what's right," she declared, her voice strong and filled with conviction. "The Urakawa family was wronged, and if the codes of the Empire do not allow for such injustices to be corrected, then we must challenge those codes. A leader must have the courage to fight for the truth, even if it means standing against the very system that's supposed to uphold it."

Her stance was clear—she would not be bound by the codes if they failed to protect the innocent. It was a bold statement, but the Empresses were not quick to judge. While Kiyomi's answer showed her willingness to challenge the status quo, the Empresses saw a certain impulsiveness in her approach. She lacked the measured perspective that Miharu had demonstrated, the ability to weigh the consequences of bending the law while still maintaining its integrity.

The White Empress, in particular, found herself conflicted by Kiyomi's answer. There was passion and a clear sense of justice in her words, but the Empresses knew that passion alone was not enough. Leadership, especially within the Imperial family, required not only the courage to act but also the wisdom to know when and how to act for the greater good. Kiyomi's approach was admirable but potentially reckless.

As the Empresses deliberated over the responses, they each reflected on the three candidates before them. Sayuri's adherence to the law was unquestionable, but she lacked the empathy that Miharu had shown. Kiyomi's passion was undeniable, but her tendency to rebel against the system could pose challenges in the delicate balance required by the Imperial family. Miharu's response, on the other hand, had struck the Empresses deeply. She had shown a balance of compassion and understanding of the law, tempered with the wisdom to know when it needed to be bent for the sake of justice.

The Azure Empress, who had watched Miharu's response with particular interest, turned to the White Empress and the other consorts. "Miharu's answer was not just about the law. It was about understanding the heart of the law—the truth that lies behind the codes. She sees the bigger picture, and I believe that is the mark of a true leader."

The Vermilion Empress nodded in agreement. "In her response, I see someone who will not only protect the Empire but also ensure that the Empire remains just. She understands the complexity of leadership."

The Black Empress, who had been quiet until now, finally spoke. "And yet, we must not forget that we live in an Empire bound by laws. Miharu has shown compassion, but we must also ensure that she understands the weight of the law and its consequences."

The Empresses continued to discuss, their minds focused on the qualities that each candidate displayed. They were impressed by Miharu's depth of understanding, her compassion, and her ability to balance justice with the needs of the Empire. Sayuri's and Kiyomi's strengths were undeniable, but Miharu's answer had proven that she could navigate the complexities of leadership with grace and integrity.

In the end, it was clear that Miharu had taken the first step toward proving herself worthy of the title she sought. The Empresses knew that the road ahead would not be easy, but they also knew that Miharu had the potential to lead the Empire into a brighter future—one that would honor the past, protect the present, and ensure a prosperous future for all.

As the deliberation ended and the candidates were escorted out, the Empresses exchanged knowing glances. The true test was still to come, but Miharu had already proven that she had what it took to lead.

Rin sat back in his seat, his expression calm as he listened to Harumi's complaints from beside him. Harumi, as usual, didn't hold back, her voice laced with frustration as she watched Miharu face what seemed like an unfair challenge in the contest. She couldn't fathom how the Empresses had tied the question to the fall of the Urakawa Family, knowing that it was a delicate topic for Miharu, one tied to her very past. Miharu had shared the truth in her perspective to Rin and Harumi once when they became close.

"It's ridiculous!" Harumi grumbled, her brows furrowed in disbelief. "After everything Miharu's been through, they bring up that question about the Urakawa Family. It's like they're trying to trip her up!"

Rin chuckled softly, his fingers tapping against the armrest as he glanced at Harumi. "It's fine, Harumi," he said with a calmness that immediately tempered her agitation. "Miharu answered it exactly as she should have."

Harumi shot him a look, clearly not convinced. "But that question was unfair, Rin. You know it. Miharu's answer was too good to be challenged like that."

Rin let out a quiet laugh, turning his gaze back to the stage where Miharu had just faced the Empresses. "It's not about fairness," he replied thoughtfully. "Miharu didn't just answer the question. She challenged it. She presented a version of the truth that was her own. And that's what the Empresses needed to see."

Harumi crossed her arms, still looking displeased, but she paused, considering his words. "But the truth about the Urakawa Family... It's so... ugly. Everyone believes they were traitors, that they killed innocent people."

Rin's expression shifted ever so slightly, his eyes narrowing as he spoke softly, as if contemplating something far beyond the contest itself. "The truth that the public knows isn't always the whole story, Harumi. You and I both know that."

Harumi blinked, clearly unsure of what he meant. She had no idea just how much he knew—or what his role had been in all of this. Rin continued, his voice steady, yet laced with a hidden weight of past regrets.

"The Urakawa Family didn't deserve the fate they were given," he said quietly. "They were loyal, but something happened. Something dark, something manipulated. I've seen it firsthand."

Harumi tilted her head, intrigued but still unaware of the true depth of Rin's connection to the situation. "So... you're saying Miharu was right to speak out like she did?"

Rin nodded slowly. "Yes, because Miharu isn't just defending her family. She's defending the truth. A truth that hasn't been fully revealed."

Harumi furrowed her brows, still puzzled but accepting of Rin's perspective. She didn't press further, her focus shifting back to the contest. Rin, however, allowed himself a fleeting moment of reflection, his mind turning to the past. His thoughts went back to the final moments he had with the head of the Urakawa Family, a man who had entrusted him with a solemn promise.

The memory was vivid, as if it had happened only yesterday. The head of the Urakawa family, bound in chains before him, his voice filled with desperation and regret. "When you find the traitor, make sure he suffers the most cruel death. And please, take care of the remaining Urakawa's... Hoshimi Rin."

Rin had taken those words to heart, as heavy as they were. He had ensured that the traitor—the one who had poisoned the Urakawa Family with a dangerous concoction that led them to rebel—paid the price for his actions. The punishment had been brutal, as ordered by Rin himself. The traitor's death had been a gruesome affair, one that left a permanent scar on Rin's soul. But he had fulfilled his duty, and in doing so, he had upheld the promise made to a family that had once been loyal.

But there was more to the story, one that Rin had never shared with anyone—not even Harumi. He knew the full truth, the truth that the Empire had kept hidden, and he could never reveal it. The stakes were too high, and the consequences too far-reaching. Only a select few knew that the downfall of the Urakawa Family had been orchestrated by forces far more powerful and shadowed than anyone could have imagined.

Harumi, of course, was blissfully unaware of all of this. She had no idea that the man she so casually relied on was none other than the very same Hoshimi Rin—the prince who had once stood at the heart of the Empire, and who had quietly shaped its future from the shadows. To Harumi, he was just Rin, the warrior from the White Flower Palace, the man who had taken a vow to help Miharu.

But Rin carried his past with him, a silent burden that could never be fully shed. He would never tell Harumi the full truth about the Urakawa Family's fate. To do so would be to risk exposing too much, and Rin had learned long ago that some truths were better left hidden, especially when the future of the Empire and the lives of those he cared for were at stake.

He turned his gaze back to the stage, watching as Miharu navigated the challenges of the contest with the grace and strength he had come to admire. "Miharu will handle it," Rin muttered to himself. "She's stronger than any of us give her credit for."

Harumi glanced at him, noticing the rare, contemplative expression on his face. She softened and leaned in, a playful smile on her lips. "Well, I hope she knocks them out of the park with her next event. I think the Empresses will be impressed."

Rin smirked, pushing his thoughts of the past aside. "She'll do just fine."

But deep inside, Rin knew that this contest wasn't just about Miharu proving herself to the Empresses. It was about the larger game—the one where the fate of the Empire, and the hidden truths of its history, could be decided by the choices made in moments like these. And Miharu's rise to power was only the beginning of a much greater story.