Though women were relegated to the inner court and harem, it was true that their family ties always placed them in the center of the political struggle. If I chose Princess Rowena as her father and the Empress wanted, then their faction would have an even stronger foothold in politics and the running of the country. Since I do not agree with their policies, it would be foolhardy to get caught in their net. Not to mention the fact that I absolutely most of them as human beings for their part in my brother's ousting from his home. It's for this reason that I avoid my uncle so diligently. Though I know it's not wise to show him my displeasure and utter dislike for him and his mother, I haven't always been able to keep my feelings hidden. My father is the only one who's aware of my feelin