The Murim Alliance headquarters bustled with activity as news of the impending royal marriage spread. Lee Do-hyeon, at the center of it all, had made his decision after sorting through the complex emotions in his heart.
Marrying Princess Miryeong of the royal family first was, undoubtedly, the most strategic and sensible course. It would strengthen the alliance between the Murim Alliance and the imperial court, and potentially put an end to further meaningless bloodshed. Yet, as he thought of Han So-yeon, Baek Wol-hee, and the comrades who had stood by his side, he refused to view this decision as a mere political act. It was a choice made to protect the Murim Alliance—and the trust of everyone who believed in him.
Lee Do-hyeon called Han So-yeon and Baek Wol-hee to meet him privately. Though his expression was resolute, it carried a trace of hesitation and deep responsibility. The two women, sensing the gravity of the moment, waited silently for his words.
"So-yeon, Wol-hee... I want to tell you the decision I've made," he said, his voice low but firm.
Han So-yeon replied gently, "No matter what it is, please speak freely. We're ready to accept it."
Taking a long breath, he continued, "I've decided to marry Princess Miryeong first. As a representative of the royal family, she will serve as the bridge between them and our alliance. However…"
He looked at the two in turn, his gaze unwavering.
"My bond with you both is no less important. Once the marriage with the princess is complete, I intend to marry you as well. That is my honest resolve."
Han So-yeon stood in silence, letting his words sink in.
"I understand," she finally said. "I know how important this marriage is for the Murim Alliance. I will wait. No matter what you choose, I will trust and follow you."
Baek Wol-hee smiled playfully, though her eyes held sincerity.
"Leader~ I kind of saw this coming. I mean, a princess is a formidable rival, sure—but you know I'm not one to back down. I'll be waiting too, for as long as it takes."
Grateful for their understanding, Lee Do-hyeon bowed his head.
"Thank you. It's because of you that I can continue walking this path. I promise—I will protect the Murim Alliance, and I will not betray your trust."
The news soon reached Han Yi-myeong, So-yeon's father. At first, he let out a deep sigh, revealing the tangled emotions within him.
"So it's a royal princess, after all... Does that mean my daughter is drifting further from his side?"
But then, his expression softened with a trace of relief.
"Still, at least it's Do-hyeon. He's a man worth trusting. And So-yeon knows that he honors her feelings."
He murmured to himself, almost prayerfully, "As the leader of the Murim Alliance, he understands better than anyone the weight of that position. I just hope he continues to hold on to his connection with my daughter."
When Miryeong heard of Lee Do-hyeon's decision, she smiled quietly.
"That's just like him. Always trying to honor everyone."
Yet even as she accepted his choice, a subtle unease passed through her heart.
"To be his first wife brings me joy... but bearing the weight of all those hearts around him won't be easy."
Strengthening her resolve, she whispered to herself, "This marriage isn't just a union between two people. It's a turning point for all of Murim. I will do my best at his side."
Preparations for the wedding began swiftly on both sides. The union of Lee Do-hyeon and Princess Miryeong wasn't merely a marriage—it symbolized a new order between the Murim world and the imperial court.
Han So-yeon and Baek Wol-hee, each from her own place, accepted the decision and committed to supporting Lee Do-hyeon.
Han So-yeon said softly, "Whatever decision he makes, I will always remain by his side."
Baek Wol-hee added with a mischievous grin, "Don't think I'll step aside just because you're marrying a princess. I'll still be here, right next to you."
Lee Do-hyeon, comforted by their words, nodded deeply.
"It's because you're with me that I can keep walking this path. Let's see this through to the end—together."
The royal marriage signaled the beginning of a long journey. But bolstered by the trust and support of those around him, Lee Do-hyeon resolved to face the trials ahead.
"As the leader of the Murim Alliance—and as a man—I will not betray the faith placed in me. No matter the hardships, I will see this through to the end."
His determination breathed new hope and courage into all of Murim.
**
Chapter : The Grand Wedding and a New Beginning
The day of the wedding had arrived—a day that symbolized the union between the royal family and the Murim Alliance. The sky was clear, and the Murim Alliance's main stronghold had been beautifully adorned for the occasion. Guests from both the imperial court and the Murim gathered, cautiously observing one another, yet striving not to dampen the celebratory atmosphere. This was no ordinary wedding. It marked a monumental event that would bind two worlds together.
Princess Miryeong appeared in a resplendent ceremonial gown befitting her royal status. Her presence captivated all in attendance, radiating both the dignity of the imperial family and her own graceful elegance. Lee Do-hyeon, dressed in a simple yet refined robe suitable for the leader of the Murim Alliance, welcomed her with calm composure.
The ceremony masterfully blended the traditional rites of the Murim with the formal rituals of the imperial court. With martial masters and imperial envoys in attendance, the two exchanged vows, sealing their union. As the ceremony reached its peak, an imperial envoy stepped forward to deliver a blessing.
"This marriage represents the harmony between the imperial court and the Murim. May both flourish together from this day forward."
A faint tension flickered between the Murim masters and the imperial officials, but the successful proceedings of the wedding allowed that unease to momentarily fade.
Han So-yeon and Baek Wol-hee watched the ceremony with composed smiles, sincerely offering their blessings to Miryeong. Han So-yeon approached with a gentle smile and spoke quietly.
"Princess... or rather, the wife of the Alliance Leader now. Congratulations. I truly hope the two of you take good care of one another."
Miryeong nodded, her tone warm and composed.
"Thank you, So-yeon. I can feel the sincerity of your heart. Let's protect the Alliance together, side by side."
Baek Wol-hee, ever bold, flashed her trademark smile.
"Your Highness~ or should I say, First Lady of the Alliance! You look absolutely stunning today. I'll be watching the Commander closely too, so let's get along, shall we?"
Miryeong let out a soft chuckle, sensing the genuine heart behind Wol-hee's teasing.
"You're beautiful too, Wol-hee. I hope we can walk this path together from now on."
After the ceremony, Lee Do-hyeon and Miryeong were guided to a private chamber—its design a seamless blend of imperial grandeur and Murim modesty. Alone for the first time, Miryeong spoke with a slightly tense expression.
"Alliance Leader… No, Do-hyeon. So many thoughts crossed my mind today. I know well this marriage means far more than a personal union."
Taking her hand gently, Do-hyeon replied in a calm voice.
"Miryeong, I hope this marriage serves as both a bridge between the imperial court and the Murim, and a bond through which we share our hearts."
At his words, Miryeong smiled faintly.
"I feel the same. If we can walk this difficult road together, that alone will be a great comfort."
That night, the two spoke candidly for the first time, exchanging honest thoughts. Do-hyeon came to understand the strength and warmth within Miryeong, and she, too, could feel the sincerity and determination that defined him.
The next morning, Han So-yeon and Baek Wol-hee sat quietly over tea.
"Do you think they had a peaceful night?" So-yeon asked softly.
Wol-hee gave a mischievous grin.
"Come on, So-yeon. With the Princess and our Commander united at last, maybe the Murim really will find some peace, huh?"
So-yeon nodded slowly.
"Still, I can't deny there's a bit of sadness in my heart. But as long as we remain by his side, everything will be all right."
Wol-hee reached out and held So-yeon's hand.
"Exactly. It's our duty to protect him—and each other. That hasn't changed."
The two women shared a quiet smile, reaffirming their vow to walk this path alongside Lee Do-hyeon.
This wedding was more than a ritual—it marked the beginning of a new era. The alliance between the Murim and the royal family had just begun, and Lee Do-hyeon, filled with renewed resolve, prepared for what lay ahead.
"I can no longer take a single step back. I must uphold the trust placed in me—and make this alliance stronger than ever."
By his side stood Miryeong, and the companions who had always believed in him. Together, they were ready to carve out a new history.