By: Quinn Riordan

As the Jin Dynasty retreated and the Goryeo court was forced to deal with the destruction and anger of their people due to the war, the King died due to injuries from battle. The throne is now empty and the people are questioning who will become their new divine ruler, Kim Busik said. 

After hearing this news, the court took little time to mourn, and members immediately began campaigning for their election to the throne. Members such as Yi/Lee Jagyeom, who married into power, Im Wonjun, Prince Po, the former King’s brother, and other court members followed. 

“The members threatened assassinations as a way to eliminate competitors and gain power, showing the green and corruption of the court,” Princess Yeondeok said.

This corruption has led to the public’s resentment, and an uprising resulted.  The anger has pushed some members of the court to call for elections to try to gain the support of the people. Specifically, Princess Yeondeok has called for the creation of a popular election which would allow the citizens to decide the fate of the ruler of the Goryeo Dynasty. 

“The Goryeo Court is taking a progressive leap allowing women, monks, and different religions to run for the throne and hold an election within the court. Why should we not extend this democracy and power to the people, and show that the great Goryeo Dynasty is for people too,” Princess Yeondeok said. 

However, many members disagree with this plan and believe that the throne should be given to members within the court or part of royal blood. They believe that “the court is made up of those made to be in power, the smartest and strongest, and they would be the best rulers for the people,” Prince Po said. 

The conflict between the court members will certainly grow as the election campaigns further develop. As the people’s levels of unhappiness increases, the members of the court will do anything in their power to ensure a win, no matter how unethical.