Chapter 51
The sky is turning purple and light blue as the first rays of sun make its appearance in the early hours of dawn. Dewy droplets had formed at the window sill and the cold fog of morning Spring had settled upon the leaves of the trees and the flowers of azaleas outside Hae Soo's quarter.
So had just awakened on the bed with Hae Soo deeply asleep at the crook of his arm. He draws the see-through light curtains to a close behind Hae Soo, affording them a little protection from the cold breeze outside. The sky looks too beautiful to close the windows.
Jostled by a slight movement on So's space, Ha Jin snuggles closer to So, instinctively seeking his comfortable body heat. A smile appears on So's lips as he turns back his attention to Hae Soo, naked and warm against his skin underneath the blanket they are both sharing. He reaches to lightly touch his finger to her cheek, his eyes holding that gaze full of tenderness.
Ha Jin shifts her weight, her lithe legs unconsciously rubbing against his awakened hardness.
"Ah…" So moans, heat pooling on his abdomen, down his thighs, depriving him off of his breathe. Hae Soo feels succulently soft alongside him, aching to get lost inside her.
He gently pushes Hae Soo to the bed, her back meeting the sheets. His hand slides down from her cheek to her neck, lifting their blanket and letting his eyes feast upon her delicious nakedness. He notices the bite marks he had left on her skin, at the lower base of her neck, at the mounds of her breast, at the insides of her thigh, an indication of her being his and his roughness at times. His brows furrow together worrying if these marks ever hurt.
His fingers tip toe upon the sides of her shoulder to the mound of her breast before letting his palm grazes her nipple as he lowers himself in between her legs and takes her other breast to his mouth, nibbling gently.
Ha Jin moves in her sleep, her nerves stirring even before her consciousness catches up in wakeful state.
So leaves her chest, his hand drawing patterns on her skin, his mouth following and littering her ribs down to the curves of her waist, to her abdomen and the inside of her thighs with kisses and marks, enough to pull Hae Soo to the edge of consciousness.
He stops at the core of her womanhood, spreading her legs and gazing at the bundle of folds and the small entrance that drove him to euphoric bliss every night. He wets his lips, tentatively sticking his tongue to taste her, his finger seeking her entrance.
Ha Jin uncomfortably turns to her side, closing her legs instinctively. Thwarted, So goes back up, tracing his path in the curves of her body while his hand is left at the insides of her thighs, still playing with her folds. His other hand, pushes Hae Soo's shoulder to meet the sheets in her back again, laying underneath him.
"Hmmm…" Ha Jin stirs in her sleep, nearly awake now.
"Good morning." So greets her with a smooch on her neck, gliding up her ear, his hand taking a sumptuous wandering on her breast that fits perfectly on his palm.
Ha Jin tries to move, fleetingly feeling So's body against her.
"Did you sleep well?" His hand leaves her breast so his arm could settle beside her head. Using his elbows, he pushes his upper body up while his lower body still flushed in between her legs. He showers her with light kisses at the insides of her cheeks.
Ha Jin settles down, almost going back to sleep.
So smirks, enjoying watching Hae Soo's unguarded state, her long mahogany hair, spread around her pillow, her lips parted as if waiting to be taken. Getting a mischievous idea, he lowers himself upon her body once more, "Shall I wake you up, my moon? It's nearly morning."
His hand slide to her soft thigh, hooking her leg at the back of his own. He braces himself beside her, positioning his hardness at her warm inviting entrance. When he didn't get a protest from her, he sucks upon her neck, entering her.
"Uh….." Ha Jin's eyes open wide, her forehead creasing in discomfort. It takes a moment before her consciousness catches up with what So is doing to her, "Wangsejanim..."
Her hands closing upon his arms. Ha Jin tenses, her body still tired from last night's consummation. Her legs quiver, her abdomen a little sore. So had been sharing her bed for a week now, discovering that the 4th prince has an appetite for it.
"Does it still hurt?" So stops for a second, observing Hae Soo.
Ha Jin's face flushed, chewing at her lower lip, her brows scrunch together. "It's early morning, can you slow down a bit."
He smiles placing a gentle kiss on her lips, slowing down just as what she asked. Ha Jin lets herself adjust, accommodating So inside her arms. He had been waking her up like this lately, she feels tired all the time. She'll appreciate it more if So could let her rest sometimes. When the stinging ebbs, she pushes upon So's chest, turning them so she could be on top. With sleep still on her eyes, Hae Soo tries to control their pace.
So meets the sheets on his back, laying compliantly and handing Hae Soo the reigns. Hae Soo as a lover is quite giving but never imposing. The first time he handed the control over her, he didn't know if he could submit and Hae Soo has no idea with what to do with it. He didn't like the idea of handing control, it reminds him too much of how powerless he is when he was still being forced to share the bed with the consort. He was always below, always submissive so the task would be over fast.
With Hae Soo, he could takes his time, relish the moment, lose control. It is no longer just a task but intimacy and vulnerability shared on the most private moment. And in these moments, as he watches Hae Soo, her eyes closed, her succulent lips a little bit open, her hair in disarray, falling gloriously on her bosom, riding his body to take pleasure, he finds her the most beautiful.
"Soo-ya" Yet he can't deny himself that being in control is addicting. With hoarse and authoritative voice that stirs excitement inside her, So tells her, "I want you on your knees."
He stills her and watches her swallow, her dry throat parched. Ha Jin is still blushing after everything they've done together. He likes how shy she is.
He offers his hand, helping her on all fours, brushing her hair to her shoulder to reveal her naked silky soft back. Hae Soo is so thin, So could almost trace her spine.
Ha Jin bunches her hands on the blanket underneath her, bracing herself. With her legs closed together, So positions himself behind her, entering her from the back. He almost doubled over as he felt Hae Soo's tightness sheath him once more. He didn't know she could be tighter than she already is.
"Soo-ya." He says her name with reverence, starting to build a pace with which he could achieve a release. He places a kiss on her shoulder before straightening his own back and enters her at a steady rhythm.
"Wangsejanim…"
Gradually, So increases the intensity of his thrusts, concentrating to the soft walls that he buries himself to over and over.
He suddenly pulls Hae Soo up into his arms, his hands closing to her chest, his mouth biting upon her shoulder, his body shuddering to a gratifying release. He strongly thrust on her once, twice, until he empties all of himself inside her, clutching at her tightly.
He releases Hae Soo and she gently falls back on the bed, spent and trembling from too much exertion. She lays on her stomach, the morning breeze outside suddenly feeling cold against her skin.
So follows through, almost laying on top of her. He pulls the blanket on them both, his arms spreading possessively on her back, his leg mingling with hers. He snuggles closer to Hae Soo, laying a chaste kiss on her hair as he closes his eyes; together they sleep through the morning once more.
Summer…
The afternoon sunlight reflects at the water of a pond surrounding a pavilion, deep into the courtyard of the Yu Clan. Pink tip lotus flowers occasionally disturbs the otherwise placid pond. Wang Ryeom Shiek and his is niece, Lady Yu are having an afternoon tea, discussing about the 14th prince health.
As if on cue, Jung appears at the end of the bridge leading to the pavilion. He seemed better. His leg still throbbing but he struggles not to show it lest his mother worry more for him. It's a good thing the arrow only graced his leg and Gen. Park's men is carrying an antidote with them. Otherwise the poison would have killed him long before he reaches the village of Chung Ju Yu Clan. Jung never told Lady Yu, the truth behind the arrow wound. He passed it of as something he got when he encountered the palace soldiers who are in the look out for them.
Jung sits opposite his mother after greeting his uncle and the former queen.
"You should rest some more, your face still lacks color." Lady Yu worriedly pushes a plate of Dasik (hwangwa – traditional Korean confection) towards Jung, pouring a cup of tea for him.
"Getting some air and sitting down with you, eomeonim is better than staying in my room." Jung assures his mother, discreetly kneading his throbbing leg, "I have missed you, eomeonim."
Lady Yu reaches out to Jung's arm, affectionately patting it, "Aigoo, I can't believe you are here with me now. Please stay beside me for a long time."
"Kuereomyo, eomeonim." Jung genuinely smiles. He really missed his mother.
"Kuende Jung-ah, ji-guem myeot sal-ib-ni-kka? (How old are you now?)" Wang Ryeom Shiek puts his cup of tea down. He too is in a good mood to see his family all safe in their town.
"Cheo? (Me?)" Jung thinks about it, "Cheo-nueun sue-mul-da-seot sal-ib-ni-da. (I'm 25 years old.)"
"Shouldn't we be arranging your wedding by now?" Wang Ryeom Shiek suggests. Jung is now the sole heir of ChunJu Yu clan, "We need an heir to ensure our bloodline."
"I know uncle but with our clan being exiled to our hometown and I being banished from our kingdom, wouldn't I be putting my future wife and child at risk?" Staying with his platoon all the time and after the madness of this past months, Jung had forgotten, he had already reached the prime age of marrying last year. He had long since buried his desire to be married after losing Hae Soo to his 4th brother.
"Non-sense, it is all the more reason for you to be married and give us an heir." Wang Ryeom Shiek waves Jung's excuse aside.
After everything Jung had experienced, he already knows his way around these political marriages, "No one would want to marry into a disgraced clan."
"Oheo!" Wang Ryeom Shiek and Lady Yu exclaim.
"We might have lose the favor from the former king but we have a new king now," Lady Yu inclines her back, sitting comfortably on her chair. The stress and anxiety of losing her husband and child might have aged her beyond her youthful years but with her youngest son back beside her, she's beginning to relax and regain the once prettiness she held, "And whose to say the new king will stay? Can the Hwangbo clan hold-up against the Kangs of Shinju?"
Though the Chunju Yu clan had been rivals with the Kangs since time immemorial, choosing between the king who killed her second son, exiled her and banished her 4th son, Lady Yu is leaning towards supporting the Kangs rather than the Hwangbos.
"We must remain vigilant for a war is upon us." Wang Ryeom Shiek explains, "and whoever wins between the stupid king and the mad consort will have their men and treasury greatly depleted. That's when we make our play for the throne, the transition time when the winner is at its weakest. Who knows, we might be the last clan standing if we are smart about it."
From a far, they hear a commotion. A messenger from the palace arrived and is seeking an audience with the former queen and the minister.
"Ha!" Lady Yu triumphantly smirks, "Is it about time the king courts the noble families for support?"
Wang Ryeom Shiek and Lady Yu exchange look of understanding, a smirk similar to what Yo once does, appears to both of their lips.
At the foot of the mountains, near the forest that makes a fortress for the northern palace, the capital town of Shinju appears to be a mini Songak on its own, only more capricious and excessive in colors. They have their own market and plaza where most people gather after the day comes to an end. There is a lively gyobang that caters to the noble men who want to enjoy the night away from their homes.
Inside the town, the plaza is decorated with hundreds of lanterns that illuminate the streets. The nobles freely walk around while the peasants and merchants do their businesses. It looks like a normal and quaint town, as if untouched by the new decrees of King Jeongjong.
In a lively three-floor gyobang run by a haengsu gisaeng appointed by the consort, a series of dancing, singing and merriment are on going, entertaining the men for the night. Deep into the courtyard, pass the garden; a secluded room was prepared at the command of Gen. Park.
"Do we need to do it here?" So asks in a low voice, almost a whisper. He is sitting at the head of a low table with the byeongpung (paper divider) at his back.
Gen. Park's mouth twitches into an annoying smile, "Why? Are you nervous of what the lady would think if she finds out you are here?"
So doesn't answer. He lays his hands at his crossed leg, looking awkwardly out of place in the room.
"I'm surprised you haven't put up your hair in a top knot." Gen. Park teases, "It would be a good announcement that you are no longer a bachelor. You're acting as if you are married to the lady already."
"I am married." So says it with a straight face.
"Oh?" Gen. Park laughs, "Right. You are. Since when? Last Spring? Is that why you no longer badgers me in my own quarters at night?"
So only looks at the general, reaching to the glass in front of him, thinking of ways to murder the annoying general.
"Does your mother know you're married to the lady?" Gen. Park laughs some more, "Does your bride know she's married to you?"
So's eyes are smoothing into a line, weighing if it would be worth staying for the meeting about to come. Turning serious, he asks, "Do we really need this?"
"It's a security policy for you, just in case you change your mind and decide to grace the kingdom with your brooding and scowling royal leadership." Gen. Park assures him.
They've talked about this plenty of times for the last few months. Their plan A is for all of them to run away and disappear in later Jin while plan B is for him to gather forces on his own and finally take the throne for himself without the consort's help.
Soon, a knock comes at the door and the haengsu gisaeng lets five men in. All have their black durumagi hiding their soldier uniforms underneath. They pay their respect to the general and the 4th prince whom they have served for years. These are colonels who command their own troops under the royal army, each one wearing their black and maroon uniform.
A servant, who brings with her another group of hooded men, serves glasses and more makgeolli. They too lower their hood and exchange pleasantries with familiar faces in the room. These new group are high ranking officials from Khitans who have been carrying negotiations between the Goryeo kingdom and Khitan territory.
After the greetings are gotten out of the way, the meeting commences. So and Gen. Park rally people on their side, soldiers from the royal army whose loyalty lie with their military commandant and high ranking officials from Khitan who can fund their army.
On the table, they spread a sketch of the northern palace, roughly made by the general himself. Though So found certain inaccuracies in it, he didn't bother to correct it yet. The map will stand as it is. It doesn't need for particular secret gates and hiding places to appear.
In the morning, a sea of people form around the plaza. In front of the palace, some of them at the back are straining their neck to see, the ones in front have all their heads bowed or flinching as the wooden paddles meet the back of peasants being flogged. They are mostly farmers from Jeolla Do, arrested for trying to petition the sudden steep tax they have to pay. The other day, it was gisaengs, who used to train under Woo Hee and were living with Hae Soo, when the two run away from the palace.
Back in the Damiwon, petals of precious roses are floating at the water where King Jeongjong is having a languid bath. His arms are spread at the edge of the inner pool, his head resting back on soft towels. Around him, a few gungnyeo(s) attend to poaches of herbs being soak in his bath while some are busy with lighting incense. Not far, Ji Mong stands by the corridor, along with other eunuch and gungnyeo(s), waiting upon the king.
The door opens, and in came the 9th prince, striding with his own ministers following behind his back. They give their greeting and the other ministers stay behind the double doors. Only Won dares to approach the king.
"The floggings at the plaza had commenced." Won reports, "Shall we put a few people from the Gyeongju Kim Clan next?"
Wook's eyes remain close, "Is there any movement from the occupants of the north?"
"None at the moment." Won answers.
"Put the cousins at my 13th brother's side to torture next, let's see how long my brothers can hold." Wook commands, his face devoid of any emotion.
Ji Mong takes a step forward, wanting to warn the king of his actions but he thought better and steps back in his position once more. He is sure, the guest occupants of the north are not informed of the arrests happening at the capital. He suspects the consort might have intercepted the news. He could have directly send message to the 4th prince or to the general through their own private messenger but he too stays quiet for fear that his daughter or the 10th and 13th prince might act up and put his plans in jeopardy. For as long as his daughter is living quietly with the 4th prince, the kingdom can burn to the ground for all he cares.
The door opens one more and in came two soldiers escorting a messenger. This one seems to not be of their people, clad in all bloody red almost black uniform. The messenger stood at the back of the king, facing Won. He announces himself as a messenger from the consort and holds out a sealed envelop. Won takes it and opens the letter for Wook, reading it for him.
Inside, the letter is an invitation from the consort. If the king could look passed what happened to his wedding then the consort is more than willing to open the gates of her palace and let the king visit. Maybe he'll find something to his liking and the consort would love to entertain him.
"Eh?!" Ji Mong raises his head to what he hears, his eyes getting rounder with surprise.
Wook spares the messenger a look and lets the hanji get soak in the water, his brown eyes sparkling with deadly interest that makes Ji Mong nervous.
Over at the Khitan's capital palace, where the 3rd prince and his wife, Yeonhwa resides, another messenger was sent from the consort. This one contains a map and a letter revealing the secret path the guest occupants of the northern palace might take.
The Azaleas had fully bloomed outside the storage quarters near the main kitchen of the Kang's palace, giving off the fresh, neat fragrant smell of Summer.
By the sill of a low window, over looking the garden, Baek-Ah stands with his back to the edge of the window watching Hae Soo prepare a dark green liquid tonic for Woo Hee. Hae Soo had been adamant on preparing Woo Hee's medicine and looking after their friend ever since she arrived at the northern palace.
"I can't thank you enough for doing this for Woo Hee." Baek-Ah leans further into the window sill, his hands by the edge of the window, supporting his back. He looks relaxed.
"It's nothing." Ha Jin grinds the dried leaves by the mortar, "I was so worried when all of you have been banished from the palace."
She looks up, sorrow on her eyes, "Mianhaeyo, I couldn't do anything. I tried."
And lowers her eyes again, "And for your…"
For a minute, silence descends upon them, both unable to say a word. It's not easy to talk about the child Baek-Ah and Woo Hee lost.
Ha Jin purses her lips together.
"It will be alright." Baek-Ah tries to assure her, "After Woo Hee gets well enough to travel, we'll go to my 4th brother's house in later Jin and start anew. I wish you'd come with us. If Woo hee is feeling better, then maybe we can leave with Eun wangja and Soon Deok by the end of the week."
"I wish that too." Ha Jin empties the mortar into a bowl and puts some more leaves to grind, "But I don't want to be separated from So wangsejanim. I can't leave him here."
Her heart suddenly squeezes as she remembers how cruel the consort can be.
"Arayo. (I Know.)" Baek-Ah leaves the window to stand beside Hae Soo, inclining to the edge of the table. He playfully takes a peak at Hae Soo, "By the way, you look different these days..."
He crosses his arms on his chest, "... my brother too."
Ha Jin stops a bit and then continues, hoping her nervousness isn't showing, "What's different?"
"Mol-la (I don't know.) Malhae pwaseyo (You tell me.)" Baek-Ah smiles widely.
Ha Jin tries not to blush.
"Did you finally kiss and make-up with my 4th brother?" Baek-Ah teases, "You guys are talking again and going to breakfast together…"
Ha Jin doesn't answer.
"…and walking back together after dinner too." Baek-Ah continues, "And then he disappears inside your room and doesn't come out 'till morning…"
Baek-Ah's eyebrows raised humorously twice, implying something.
Ha Jin blushes tomato red, "There's nothing going on. He leaves after walking me to my room"
"Of course." Baek-Ah laughs good-naturedly, "Nothing happens. Right. My 4th brother leaves after walking you to your room. Right. He no longer stays in Park Janggun's room at night and I definitely don't share my quarters with him. Right. Right. I wonder where my brother spends his nights these days. Maybe with his step mother?"
Baek-Ah has no idea that his words could be true.
"Kuemanhaseyo. (Let it go.)" Ha Jin quietly answers, "Of course he spends his nights on his own room."
"Which happens to be your quarters now." Another round of teasing laughter from Baek-Ah, "Right. Definitely spends his nights on his own room. Hahahaha."
It never occurred to Ha Jin where So sleeps on this palace. She just assumed that he has his own quarters, probably near the consort's that's why she never heard of him staying on one of the guests' quarters. These days, So discreetly spends night on her room and if anyone ever notices it, no one dares to say. Except for Baek-Ah now, who is teasing her.
"That is not a way to talk to a lady." Ha Jin tells on Baek-Ah, hoping he'd stop. She's too embarrassed to continue this conversation.
"Alright. Alright. I'll stop. I'm just happy for my 4th brother." Baek-Ah quiets down a bit, "He's also no longer scowling."
Then turns a little bit serious, "You're being safe, right?"
"Eh?!" Ha Jin plays dumb founded.
"If some of us know, surely the consort will be notified of it. I don't know how the consort is taking all of this. Still, it wouldn't hurt to be wary of her." Baek-Ah cautions.
Though the consort had only shown them kindness since she came back, Baek-Ah knows to be guarded of her. The consort is not known for her kindness. Why she suddenly looks the affectionate mother to the seja, no one really knows. It's not fooling Baek-Ah or Jung or General Park but the three of them never said a word about it. Out of respect to his 4th brother, who is keeping his mouth shut, they too learned not to ask.
"I'd like to be there when you and my 4th brother finally weds." Baek-Ah smiles this time.
We've already wed
Ha Jin thinks to herself. There might be no witnesses but the simple ceremony they had at the moon lake is enough. Though, they still have to register it to make it legal and binding in the eyes of men.
"I'm sure Woo Hee and Soon Deok would want to witness it too." Baek-Ah continues, "Even Park Janggun will volunteer to give your hand away if you need a father to do so."
Ha Jin looks up to Baek-Ah, a little sadness in her eyes as she remembers Hae Soo's parents "Kamsahabnida, Baek-Ah-ya. That would be nice."
"Until then, it would be good if you stay safe." Baek-Ah tells on Hae Soo like an older brother that he is, "You know what I mean, right?"
"Eh?" Ha Jin blushes once more, "Please don't say it."
Ha Jin knows where this conversation is going. Somehow she feels embarrassed even though she and Baek-Ah have discussed many things before.
"Don't make me say it then." Baek-Ah is back to being teasing and serious at the same time.
"Ne… Ne…" Ha Jin answers begrudgingly and whispers to herself, "Coming from someone who didn't even thought of being safe himself…"
"Ya! Mwo rago?! (What did you say?!)" Baek-Ah heard a few words of it.
"Nothing. Nothing." Ha Jin repeats, a smile finally showing on her face.
"I slipped, just one time!" Baek-Ah defends himself.
Ha Jin puts her hands on her ears, "Kuemanhaseyo. Deut-go sip-ji anh-a-yo. (I don't want to hear it.)"
And the two of them laughs, carefree and relax.
Inside the 10th prince' quarters, luggage are strewn over at the table and bed as Soon Deok busily organizes the things that they will bring when they leave for Later Jin. So and Gen. Park informed the consort that the 10th prince and Soon Deok are leaving for Soon Deok's mother's hometown, concealing their plan.
Eun makes a shot, as if throwing for a basketball and tosses his sling shot at one of the open luggage, "Yes!"
"Ya!" Soon Deok screams at Eun.
"Waeyo?! I'm helping you, aren't I?" Eun flinches, pouting his lips.
Soon Deok sighs, his child like husband sometimes is too much.
"Kuende, Soon Deok-ah…" Eun sits by the bed, his face turning serious, "Has there been any news lately from the palace? It seems strange that it's quiet."
Soon Deok suddenly finds herself busying with the nearest robe she can fold. She too is worried that the palace is quiet these days. She doesn't think the king would just let himself be humiliated like that, "Maybe, your mother and grandfather are just being cautious so they couldn't send us messages. After all, we weren't supposed to be living here at the northern palace."
Eun takes a deep breathe, trusting his wife, "Do you think my mother is alright? They might have been punished because of what I did."
"You heard Hae Soo, your mother and your whole clan are safe after we were banished. They might have lost favor in the king's eyes but they are still royal blood. The king will not touch them." Soon Deok tries to assure her husband.
"I hope so, too. I just wish we could let my mother know where we're going." The lively and bright smile suddenly leaves Eun's face.
"I'll find a way to send them a messenger once we settle, will that be better?" Soon Deok cheers Eun up.
Eun smiles, taking another robe and folds it hopelessly. With all his skills at origami, he never learned how to properly fold clothes. Soon Deok pulls it from him before he murders the silk. He stands up, going into the table where the square handkerchiefs are folded. He takes one, turning his back to Soon Deok. He folds it into a perfect square, folding diagonally, drawing patter until finally arriving at bulk lotus flower. Carefully, he comes behind Soon Deok, extending his hand.
"Yeogi. (Here!)"
Soon Deok turns to see the lotus flower at Eun's hand.
"We never went into the lantern festival at the capital." Eun shyly offers, "It's not much but I've always wanted to get you one."
"Eun wangjanim…" Soon Deok tentatively accepts the lantern.
"If we ever get a chance to attend a lantern festival again, I will definitely get you one." Eun smiles, his easy boyish smile, "Yaksokhae (I promise.)
Soon Deok blushes, a thin pink one under her eyes and on her cheeks.
Eun stoops down, his face level with Soon Deok. He steals a kiss on her lips and runs outside their room afterwards.
If Soon Deok was pink before, now she is tomato red. Her husband is always too childish and they have just learned to share their bed but he always surprises her with little things that warm her heart. She looks down, the lotus origami looks pretty in her hands.
In the morning, the occupants of the northern palace assemble in the throne room, together with some heads of the family that Lady Shinjuwon manages. Like the morning assembly the princes used to attend, Eun, Baek-Ah and Gen. Park take their places in front of the aisle. Hae Soo and So are standing on both side of Lady Shinjuwon, a few steps below her seat. Guen Sun is at her left shoulder as always, the way Ji Mong does for the all the kings he serve.
Gen. Park makes an eye contact with So as the court is called to convene. He usually joins these assemblies out of loyalty and camaraderie with the 4th prince. He isn't really part of Lady Shinjuwon's private army but he was appointed to co-manage the troops when So took over the Kang's army. Both he and So have no idea why the guest inhabitants were called to the assembly.
Lady Shinjuwon makes a swift scrutiny of Baek-Ah and Eun in the aisle. Unlike the last time she saw them at the palace assembly, the two princes have grown to fill the shoes they were meant to wear as royal blood but still the softness and innocence never left their eyes. She bets the two had never once had their hands tainted with blood. Gen. Park and So had done their part to protect them and she finds it interesting how much will she be able to toy with them. Her adoptive son has accumulated a number of people under his safety net. Quite a number of weaknesses she can pick upon. She glances at So and the contemptuous disdain has spread on her lips. Her adopted daughter surely made So weak and it is time to start getting rid of So's baggage that is weighing him down.
"It has come to my attention that the king had ordered to closed off all exchange trades around the perimeters of the territories we hold. All entrances connecting to our land had been shut." Lady Shinjuwon announces, "and anyone who so much as step a foot outside the gates are instructed to be killed on the spot. Even if they are simpleton who wandered off the path or our farmers who had business on the other side of the borders."
Murmur of anxiety from the leaders of the families start to float in the air. Some of them exchange stories of what happened to their servants and tenants whom they've sent to do business on their behalf.
"It is not of great concern at the moment but it will become a big problem in the long run." Lady Shinjuwon continues, "We can't continue to be isolated from our own kingdom for it will kill our livelihood and the thriving market we all work so hard to build."
Lies. So and Gen. Park shrug it off. They know the facts. They won't be fooled by this. The Kangs of Shinju is a kingdom itself. They can even choose to separate themselves from Goryeo and it won't affect them at all. They have a thriving market from Later Jin and across north Asia and a good diplomat relationship with the Khitans. The Kangs does not need anything from Goryeo. They just happen to be part of their kingdom.
"And a trusted ally have given me the news that Wang Gyu Minister and the Myeong Clan of Yeonan," All eyes turned to the 10th prince, "have apparently decided to pledge their fealty to the king and had offered their lands near our territories for the king's deployment, thereby breaking faith with us."
Eun freezes on his spot. Everyone knew it is only a matter of time when each noble clan will choose a side. Wang Gyu had once pledged their loyalty to the 4th prince after the ceramic – embezzling issue and they even married their son to the general's family to solidify their relationship with the 4th prince, whom everyone thought will become a king one day. Now that the throne had fallen under the Hwangbos and the 10th prince was banished, Wang Gyu had to earn his way back to Wook's grace for their clan to survive.
"Seize the 10th prince!" Lady Shinjuwon waves her soldiers to her bidding, "I do not tolerate a traitor in our midst."
"Eh?!" Baek-Ah and Eun react, looking at each other, their eyes mirroring a horrified expression.
It feels like they are back in the palace and it is a repeat of the scene when they were banished. Soldiers on both sides surround Eun and apprehends him.
"Eomeonim, jjamkanmanyo. (Hold on, mother.)" Ha Jin doesn't forget to address the consort respectful even though the words taste bitter on her mouth. Panic is starting to cloud her eyes.
Guen Sun reaches to her arm and holds her back. So balls his hand to a fist, maintaining his void expression as he sees Guen Sun grabs Hae Soo. From Hae Soo, So turns to Lady Shinjuwon and says nothing.
Following the 4th prince lead, Gen. Park dare not say a word, letting the arrest happen when all he wants is to brandish his sword against the throat of the soldiers who had taken hold of his son-in-law. He worries if his daughter is also being apprehended on her quarters at the moment.
"Eun-ah!" Baek-ah tries to break the soldiers hold on Eun but several other soldiers holds him back. He turns to his 4th brother, noticing that So is straining not to show any emotion, he chews his lips and struggles to contain his emotion as Eun is taken away.
"Not to worry, Park Janggun," Lady Shinjuwon utters after Eun was dragged away from the assembly and Baek-Ah was left anxiously at the aisle, "I am a fair ruler. I do not hold grudge by association."
Gen. Park makes an eye contact with the consort, his mouth twitching to the side, struggling not to show any menacing emotion, "Then I shall be at peace, my lady."
An entourage of gungyeo(s) forms two columns inside King Jeongjong's room, the new sanggun, picked from Queen Shinjeong's court ladies, is overseeing the king's breakfast when a eunuch announces the arrival of Queen Shinjeong.
"Deul-eo-hae-ra. (Let her in.)", Wook calls, setting aside a certain map on his lap.
Queen Shinjeong storms inside the room with a hold back anger, "What is this I hear that you are mobilizing our soldiers to come to the north? Have you lost your mind?"
Wook is only at his 5th side dish and is fast losing his appetite.
"No sane king will leave the safety of his palace to grant some consort's invitation." Lady Shinjeong tells off Wook as if he is a child again, "Not specially from the treacherous Kangs."
Wook slowly lifts the bowl of water unto his mouth and drinks. He takes his time and calmly puts it down to the table, "I know but when will we get another chance to storm the palace in the north if not now."
Ji Mong who is quietly standing at his post, beside a eunuch follows the discussion. Like Lady Shinjeong, he also advised the king not to be too trusting of the Kangs, that granting the invitation of the consort is like voluntarily stepping at the edge of the cliff. It's dangerous and flirting with death. In truth, he has a bad premonition of it. He can still feel the light ashes stinging in his skin as it coat his once beloved palace, still smell the rustic iron of river blood from the many bodies littering the pavement, still hears the cry of the daughter of the moon as she begs for her life. He doesn't like the northern palace, it reminds him too much of where it all begun.
No, my king. I will not let you repeat your treachery in this lifetime as well.
Ji Mong swears under his breath.
"What will guarantee that the consort will not have your head once you settle inside their walls? Pyeha, jeong-sin cha-ri-sib-si-u, jebal! (Please come to your senses, my king.)" Lady Shinjeong frustratingly pleads, "Who will be running the kingdom without your presence in the palace? You are no longer a prince, who can leave when he wants to."
In Wook's mind, he was never permitted to leave the palace even before. Now that he is king, why can't he be allowed to do what he wants, "I will have the best palace guards and a thousand army behind my back. I will not have my people say that I am coward, hiding in the safety of my palace. It is time for this nation to only have one sun in the sky."
"Pyeha, if I may speak." Ji Mong calmly interrupts, "The queen is speaking with wise counsel. It is a trap. Why else will the consort suddenly open her palace to you? She will have the control of the place. You are willingly handing her an advantage."
Wook raises his eyes, drawn almost in straight line. He looks compose and undeterred, holding the map on his lap. It is almost the same map Gen. Park presented on his meeting with colonels of royal army and hooded officials of Khitan. This one is drawn from the memory of a colonel who had seen the original map, "Cause only through a belly can you kill a colossal fiend."
Walking towards the barracks of the soldiers in northern palace, So, and Gen. Park discuss Eun's demise. They were both blind-sided of the news. They stop by a deserted garden, under the shade of a corridor of some quarters.
"Did we miss a messenger from the adviser?" Gen. Park calmly inquires, his mouth twitching at the side out of annoyance.
"I don't think so." So answers, "It might be because the king's men had closed off all gates surrounding our territory so the messenger can't reach us."
"We should have sent the two away, days ago." Gen. Park keeps his hands behind his back as they continue to cross the courtyard going to the barracks where Eun is being held, "Now, we have to break my son in law from the cell. It would be harder for them to leave our borders. The king's men and your mother's men would be after them. What game is your mother playing?"
So has no answer for that. He had always known it's only a matter of time before the consort drops the pretense of gracious host that's why he's been adamant for them to leave before the consort settles back here but he had been distracted with his mother's taunting about Jung being Hae Soo's ex lover that he wasn't thinking clearly as of late. Only when Jung left and Hae Soo married him at his lake did he had his head cleared enough to plan about their survival.
"Let's change plans. I'm coming with them now." Gen. Park proposes, "If we break the 10th prince out of the cell and the he disappears with my daughter, it is only logical to point a finger on me."
"Then you wouldn't be able to come back nor will you be able to set foot in our territory again." So stops walking. They need to think this through. The general wouldn't be able to stay by his side. Their planning will have to happen outside the borders. The comings and goings will be eventually arouse suspicions.
"We have no other way. My daughter will not stay still nor will Lady Hae Soo. It will endanger everyone." For the first time, Gen. Park finally feels the walls of the northern palace. "Had it always been this suffocating here?"
"Then Baek-Ah and Lady Woo Hee should also come with you. We can no longer wait for the lady to get better." So adds.
"And Lady Hae Soo?" Gen. Park asks.
As much as So wants to send Hae Soo with them, "The consort would turn over this whole kingdom to find her. It might endanger all of you more if Hae Soo comes with you. She's her daughter now. I don't think she will spare anyone who tries to take Hae Soo away."
In his selfish musing, So just couldn't admit, he can't part with Hae Soo, not again.
Gen. Park understood how trapped So and Hae Soo are inside this palace but he still wanted to try to help, "The walls are closing in on you, maybe it's time we stop pushing back your destiny and get you to that throne."
So closes his eyes, not excited of the prospect, "Maybe."
Getting the throne is the only way to restore his brothers' clan to their positions and the only way to protect all of them from the king and maybe from the consort. So is not looking forward to it.
The two continues to walk, ending at the southern barracks where the 10th prince is being held. Not long, they hear a commotion and soon enough as they round the corner of the gate and enter, they see Soon Deok with Baek-Ah, having a tense stand-off with the guards.
"Park Soon Deok, Agassi." Gen. Park calls, putting a break in between her daughter and the guards. As he approach her, he playfully grabs at Soon Deok's nape and turns her away, dealing with her the way he does when she was still a kid and she was caught in trouble. He turns to the guards, to Guen Sun who doesn't look amused with his daughter, "Forgive my daughter, she sometimes forget she's no longer a child who can throw tantrum when she wants to."
"I am not a child!" Soon Deok tries to free herself from her father's grip. She twist and turn, looking every bit comical to people who are watching and it is what the general intended it to be, his daughter harmless, instead of looking deadly skilled underneath her pretty hanbok.
"On your way, Agassi. Before you get more scolding from your father." Guen Sun looks amused, turning to stare at the 4th prince, exhibiting an understanding that what is playing in front of him is all an act.
So turns his back, his 13th brother and the general following him. Gen. Park drags his daughter with him preventing the commotion from turning ugly.
Late into the night, a eunuch announces Ha Jin's presence at the inmost double doors of Lady Shinjuwon's quarters. Lady Shinjuwon had just came out of her bath and is being attended by her gungnyeo(s) at her vanity table, having her hair dried and brushed, while her skin is being pampered with aromatic oil. Guen Sun stands by the door.
"Deul-eo-u-se-yo (Come in.)" Lady Shinjuwon calmly states as she inspects her face in the mirror.
Guen Sun steps aside from the door and Hae Soo comes in, awkwardly and nervously greeting Guen Sun. She looks around, her first time to see the insides of Lady Shinjuwon's room. She was put to the receiving room, the first time she was here.
Unlike the queen's chamber in the palace, Lady Shinjuwon's quarters consist of different rooms that form an inverted u-shape and opens to her garden of poison at the back. The receiving room is on the right, while her study chambers are on the left. The bed chambers is in front center chamber that can be access through layers of corridors.
Inside the room is spacious with large windows that are usually closed with heavy drapes in the morning. Lanterns and candles are lighted everywhere and that nauseating incense had filled the air. It's been a few months since Ha Jin arrived and she still can't get used to the smell of it.
"What brings my daughter in my quarters?" Lady Shinjuwon asks, dismissing her gungnyeo(s), "Ilu-wa. (Come here.) Won't you help your mother with her hair?"
Ha Jin can't get a read on Lady Shinjuwon. One moment she's being cruel and next she's back into being this accommodating mother who wants attention from her daughter. Whatever her mood is, Ha Jin is always scared of her.
Hiding her trembling, she slowly walks to the vanity table and picked up the brush, the gungnyeo had left at the table.
Lady Shinjuwon busies herself with her beauty routine, "You look tired? Is it from worrying for your friend or from spending nights with your brother?"
Ha Jin stills her hand on Lady Shinjuwon's hair. She can't get used to anyone calling So, her brother. Lady Shinjuwon's question felt malicious and wrong in many ways she couldn't answer.
Lady Shinjuwon notices her tenses and watches her from the mirror, "I heard the 10th prince once fancied you. How adorable? It seemed half of the siblings had fallen for you. No wonder, my king, the once might Taejo was weary of you. You have so much command in your hand."
She turns to Hae Soo and inspects her from head to foot, "I didn't expect for you to be so sly."
Ha Jin chews her tongue, unable to say anything. It isn't the first time she heard about how much power she holds on her hand and she tires of hearing it. If that's how powerful she is, how come she can't do anything to save the people that matters to her. It's as if fate is playing a trick on her.
"So, did you come here to beg for your friend's life? Or did you come here to ask me to let you marry your brother?" For a moment, Ha Jin is thrown off guard, she isn't expecting for the consort to bring it up on her own. She steps back, chilled by the way Lady Shinjuwon look nonchalant.
"Ah, before you answer that…"
Lady Shinjuwon stands up, her sinuous, flimsy robe flowing on her body as she moves to the tea table and arranges a bowl of dark violet berries on top of it, "Do you want to know a secret?"
Ha Jin is still frozen on the spot. The consort's actions are becoming more confusing by every minute.
Lady Shinjuwon picks up a berry and twirls it in her fingers, "Surely, you haven't lost your tongue, have you? Sit down, have some berries. I personally grew it on my garden."
Guen Sun watches Hae Soo hesitate and put down the brush at the vanity table. She slowly approaches Lady Shinjuwon. Up close, Ha Jin recognizes the berry as poisonous. She had read about it at the herbal books that Lady Oh made them study, remembering it grows well at this part of the country.
"One berry, won't kill you." As if Lady Shinjuwon can read her mind.
"No, thank you eomeonim, I am still full from our supper." Ha Jin finally finds her voice, standing beside the table.
"That's a shame. It's your brother's favorite forbidden berry."
Ha Jin doesn't know what to make of the consort's words.
"Has your brother settled in your room already?"
"He… doesn't sleep… I mean … I… do not understand..." Ha Jin nervously stammers.
Lady Shinjuwon laughs a twinkling sound that mocks, "If you were going to lie, at least do it convincingly or ask your brother to teach you how. He's perfected the art of lying through the years."
Her fingers glide at the table as she approaches Hae Soo. Ha Jin strains not to shake, holding her breathe while Lady Shinjuwon nears her back, circling around her, "Do you mean to say he watches you sleep the whole night and emerges from your quarters in the morning after you awake? I never knew my son could be so patient... and gentle..."
She stops at Ha Jin's back, her every word drawn and enunciated. Drawing too close, Ha Jin could smell the aromatic oil used on her bath, it smells of rosewood and clings freely on Lady Shinjuwon's hair and skin. Lady Shinjuwon puts her spidery long hands on each of Ha Jin's upper arm and leans in to whisper on her ear, "He had always been rough and aggressive."
All the hair at Ha Jin's nape stood on its end, the consort's words giving her a creepy goosebumps. She instinctively steps away, looking at the consort with oddity. She couldn't get her head wrap around the consort's word. It's baffling and twisting her mind.
Lady Shinjuwon laughs, taking a small berry and offering it to Hae Soo, "Eat one, then maybe I'll show you what I mean."
Ha Jin tenses, her heart racing double time. She came to plead for Eun's life but she couldn't even get a word out, distracted by Lady Shinjuwon's play of words.
Lady Shinjuwon puts one on her mouth and bites it as if its the tastiest fruit she ever had, "It's not poisonous. Take one."
This time Lady Shinjuwon is not taking no for an answer. Ha Jin discreetly looks around, finding Guen Sun at the corner. There will be no help even if she asks.
Lady Shinjuwon takes a step and holds her hand out to Hae Soo's mouth, "Eat or shall I call your brother and share it with him instead?"
One berry will not kill me, right?
Out of her wits, Ha Jin had no choice but open her mouth and take the berry in. Afraid that So might be asked to come and take her place instead.
It's just one.
She bites into it, the insides of her mouth getting numb. The juice drips into her throat and soon enough she feels light headed.
Is the poison this fast?
Guen Sun unsuspectingly walks over to where Ha Jin is, catching her, as she minutely sways and looses her consciousness.
The double doors to Lady Shinjuwon's quarters are thrown open by an irritated So. Though he looks calm as always, there's a brewing anger on his hands that he holds back behind.
Inside, the room is dimmer now, almost all the candles were already extinguished, saved by the lantern at the tea table, casting a warm glow to the deep violet berries in the bowl. Lady Shinjuwon is standing motionless by her windows, watching her garden outside as if nothing out of normal had just occurred in her bedroom some hours ago. The see-through bamboo curtain is drawn around her bed, concealing an unconscious Hae Soo. She chances a nonchalant glance at So then continues watching the summer breeze dancing with her purple helmet flowers. It's almost black from the darkness of night.
So inhales, controlling his breathing, "Might I ask what you plan to do with my 10th brother?"
Nothing changes on Lady Shinjuwon's expression, "That depends on you. Shall I free him, maybe re-unite him with his beloved wife. Did you know, he once fell for your sister? How amusing it is, I never quite understood the allure your sister has over you and your siblings."
So didn't quite understood what the consort is insinuating but Eun having a crush on Hae Soo is not a big news. He always thought it was harmless. Matching Lady Shinjuwon's calmness, So shrugs it off.
"My patience has it's limits and you continue to test it. Isn't it time to see the end to this game?"
"You never tire of your games. What else is there to play with after you get rid of my brothers?" So toes his foot to dangerous water, appearing to be on Lady Shinjuwon's side.
His answer sounds so different from his usual self that it catches Lady Shinjuwon's attention, making her turn around and scrutinize him under the warm glow of the lantern at the table.
"Maybe I shouldn't have let the 14th prince go. He was fun to have around. He's good at getting at your nerves. I hate to think he is a proper match against you. Tell me, is it the fact that he was once your sister's lover that irritates you or is it because he was your mother's favorite child? I'll bet, his life is everything you ever wanted."
It is to So but he will never give the consort the pleasure of knowing that. Taking a seat at the tea table, So makes himself comfortable, seeming to be bored of this exchange, "Both my brothers have their own army to command. I'll say let's not cross their clans off the list yet. My 10th brother's clan still holds a good portion of land here in the north and the Chunju Yu clan had always been a contender in the throne. They are good addition to our troops. Let's not anger them by trying to kill their sons."
He extends his hand at the bowl of deep violet berries, twirls one on his finger the way Lady Shinjuwon played with it a while ago in front of Hae Soo, "I've finished accounting our forces. The palace' army would almost be even with us without the Chunju Yu clan's help and by the time we come out of another coup to the throne victoriously, both our forces and the palace' would be reduced greatly that we might not survive if another kingdom invades us right away or another pissed off clan such as the Yu's of the Chunjus decides to challenge us to the throne or the Myeong Clan turns their back to us and allies with the Chunju Yu because you decided their heir is not much fun to play with. These aristocratic clans might not be of match to us singlehandedly but if they bond against us, they are a force to contend with."
At the bed, Ha Jin breathes laboriously but quietly, her consciousness tittering between awake and asleep. Everything in her senses are a blur, she can't make out the room or anything. Beads of sweat had formed on her forehead, her temperature came up fast, a fever settling on her.
Lady Shinjuwon is suddenly curious with this different behavior So is exhibiting that she walks to the tea table, "And what are you proposing then?"
"Nothing, it all depends on what amuses you." So reclines his back, relaxed at the table, playing with the berry, his eyes never wondering in the screened bed he detests.
Testing him, Lady Shinjuwon takes a seat at his lap, her flimsy robes, flowing possessively on So's, her arms coming around his shoulder like a lover thirsting, "Shall I make the Chunju Yu clan our ally by giving away your sister to them?"
So's eyes strains, suddenly breaking Lady Shinjuwon's teasing hold on him, "That is a deal breaker. You will have the throne and I will have Hae Soo, that is what we agreed about, other than that, you can play with anything."
Lady Shinjuwon laughs, pleased to see a normal reaction from So, "I invited the king for a tour in our palace, I expect he won't come -
"-Mwo?!" So couldn't contain his surprise.
"- but who knows. Your 8th brother is simple. You and your brother only want one thing…" She leans in, her lips almost touching his ears, So strains not too pull away, "I'm inclined to give it to him if he offers me the kingdom. Unless you give it to me first."
So doesn't move even if Lady Shinjuwon's lips presses on his neck, "Whose head will be handed on the plate?
Lady Shinjuwon's hand glides to his chest, opening his jeogori, "Yours? The king? or your 10th brother? Maybe your 14th brother? Whichever will be to my advantage."
"I need my 10th brother out of the cell if I'm handing the king's head to you." So bargains with Lady Shinjuwon, "Hae Soo will surely do something stupid about it and it will distract me. Better get it out of the way."
Lady Shinjuwon slowly detaches herself from So to look into his eyes, calculating. His adopted son never shows his weaknesses before, why he is being bold and using it to his advantage is an interesting move to her. She suddenly erupts into her maniacal laughter, "Confident and decisive. You did learn a few things along the way."
She reaches to So's hand, the one twirling the berry and puts it in her mouth. So braces himself as Lady Shinjuwon shares the berry in his lips, the juice dripping on their mouths. With her lips lock on his, she stands and pulls him towards her bed. If there was hesitation on So's part, he couldn't show it, playing the part of the obedient toy to win over Lady Shinjuwon's trust.
Nearing the bed, the shadow of someone occupying a side of it becomes apparent to So. Hae Soo, still in between awake and asleep, turns to her side, So's dwikkoji catches a sliver of light and twinkles enough to capture his attention.
So's eyes round in surprise, mortified as he recognizes the shadow in the dark. He separates himself from Lady Shinjuwon but Lady Shinjuwon holds his nape in place and whispers, "You're right, your sister will do something stupid to free your 10th brother."
He automatically pushes Lady Shinjuwon away, panic rising inside him. He feels as if he was doused with frozen water, the fear slithering in his spine.
"What's wrong?" Lady Shinjuwon taunts, regaining her balance gracefully, "I heard you've been sleeping in your sister's room. I'm sure she's no longer innocent. A little kiss won't surprise her."
So looks murderous and afraid, lost as to how to approach Hae Soo.
"Don't worry, I made her eat a berry so she might not be on her head." A teasing smile appears on Lady Shinjuwon's face, enjoying So's anxiety.
So rushes to the bed, going underneath the bamboo see-through curtain and gently checks on Hae Soo. Upon closer inspection, Hae Soo appears to be unconscious, burning in high fever. Her skin feels clammy to touch and her breathing is faint. He takes her into his arms, carrying her out of the bed. He rushes to get Hae Soo out of the chambers and as he nears the doors, Lady Shinjuwon calls out a warning, "Next time it won't just be a berry or a kiss."
So stops enough to hear it.
"You can't have what you want and not hold the end of your bargain." Lady Shinjuwon continues in a stern voice, "You might have succeeded in having your sister but will she stay by your side once she finds out what happens inside these walls? You are mine, my dear son. Until I say otherwise, you are mine."
The message etched clearly on his ears.
So walks away before the hallucination from the berry sets in on him.
Ji Mong stands by the balcony of Sky Tower, watching the busy palace courtyard. Everywhere, there are servants running errands and soldiers preparing to leave tomorrow. He too needs to pack his things but he can't seem to bring himself to do so. He expressly advice King Jeongjong against going to the north but the king won't hear any of it. His last resort is to send a messenger ahead of them. With this big company moving to the north, he can only hope that the messenger will have enough time to reach the guest occupants of the north and warn them.
At dawn, the soldier gathers at the courtyard waiting for the king to take his place in front of the procession. Unlike the normal parade of the king, King Jeongjong is not sitting at a massive palanquin that soldiers carry around. He sits a top of a white horse, authoritative like a general. Won, rides beside him, his right hand man. He wears that all knowing arrogant smile.
Queen Shinjeong watches her only son, the king, command their troops out of the massive gate of their palace, hoping it isn't the last time she will see her son. She arranges a messenger to the Khitans, imploring a truce and protection through her daughter Yeonhwa Gongju, who now finds favor in the eyes of their crowned king.
"It needs to happen tonight." A calm, authoritative So stands with his back reclined into one of the post at the balcony of Gen. Park's quarters.
He, the general and Baek-Ah are having an unsuspecting morning tea at the guest's quarters. Soon Deok is sitting at the balustrade, abandoning her lady manners. She looks agitated, unable to decide if she wants to pace the length of the balcony or remain seated, anxious of her husband's demise. She and Baek-Ah had sneaked into Eun's withholding quarters last night and found Eun, comfortably sleeping on his cell. He looked unharmed.
"I don't know how much the consort is toying with me the other night but she told she invited the king here in our palace." So continues
"Mwo?!" Soon Deok, Baek-Ah and Gen. Park exclaims.
"But no sane king would leave the safety of his palace and venture to an enemy's land. Surely, your 8th brother is not stupid." Gen. Park reasons out.
"Yes, no sane king." So repeats, looking at the garden outside. The sky all gray.
"But your 8th brother is not sane." Gen. Park sighs, picking up his tea, not looking forward to the bleak future looming upon their heads.
"Why would your mother do that?" Baek-Ah feels a migraine coming, "I don't think Woo Hee can travel already. I mean she can but…"
"She shouldn't. The two of you shouldn't come with us." Soon Deok butts in, "We can't have you branded as traitors like my husband."
So agrees, "The smaller the party is, the safer for all of you."
"Then it will be tonight," Gen. Park agrees, standing from the table and going over the balustrade to assess the sky. The clouds are moving fast and the sun is nowhere in sight, "It seemed, we will have rain later and the fog will be good at hiding us."
"I'll put our own men as Eun's guard tonight and then they can escort the three of you just in case the consorts' men are alerted and she sends a troop after you." So offers, making sure no one will be left behind to be put to death.
"We can take care of ourselves but an additional precaution is always welcome." Gen. Park answers, "You will be alone for a few weeks until my daughter and the 10th prince settles at Later Jin. I will be in touch as soon as I can. Our men are ready at your command. I will continue the negotiations with the Khitans. It would be best to start asking for the nobles' support. The ones who pledgde loyalty to you when you were still a seja. I'm sure you still have their support."
So nods.
"Please take care of the ladies," Gen. Park continues, "I haven't seen Hae Soo Agassi come out of her room lately."
"She's a bit … ill." So reasons, hiding Hae Soo's poisoning.
"Already?!" Soon Deok exclaims.
"Has it been a month?!" Baek-Ah asks, exchanging a look with Soon Deok and Gen. Park.
So looks baffled, not getting the inside joke, "Huh?"
The atmosphere suddenly becomes lighter, a knowing smile spreading at their faces. They can use a little bit of a joke to get through the demise they all are enduring.
"Nothing." Gen. Park pats So's shoulder affectionately, "Let's hope the future for all of us is brighter. I always said, a little kid playing in the garden is always a a delight to watch."
Rain clouds gather as the waning moon rises up in the sky. Tonight, the stars and the moon are all hidden behind the clouds. Everywhere its dark and a cold fog had settled in the grounds, making it hard even for a lantern to light a meter a way from itself. Somewhere at a hidden exit to the mountains, So and his men stealthily escort Eun to meet Soon Deok, Baek-Ah, and Gen. Park, all three waiting with horses at hand.
"Hyungnim, I am entrusting my clan unto your hands." Eun addresses his 4th brother in a pleading voice, "Forgive me that I failed in protecting my mother and have to pass the responsibility to you. One day, I promise I will repay you."
"It is nothing, Eun-ah." So assures his 10th brother.
"I hope when we meet again, it is in better circumstances." Dressed in her soldier clothes, Soon Deok pays respect with a formal bow befitting of a soldier, a comrade at arms rather than a wife of a prince, "Again, let me thank you, So wangsejanim. Please take care of our Hae Soo. She could really be stubborn at times but she will never leave your side."
"I know." So lets Soon Deok rise, "Do not send a messenger. We will contact you when something important comes-up."
The four of them walks to where Gen. Park and the horses are.
"Stay to the forest." So reminds them, "And never tell anyone in Later Jin of your real identities."
"Yie, wangsejanim."
Eun and Soon Deok mount their horses and readies to leave. The party will be small, five at most. Easy to protect and manage.
"I will see you in weeks." Baek-Ah bids his goodbye to them. The torches left to him and So.
"Come fast!" Eun waves over the fog, even though it can't be seen. His eyes water, afraid for his brothers and friends who will be left behind.
The five of them turn for the forest. Quiet as possible, they guide their horses away. The dark swallows them automatically and with the help of the fog, they conceal themselves easily.
Standing at her secluded corridors, lighted by a yellow lanterns that doesn't give off any warmth, Lady Shinjuwon watches her courtyard though the hazy fog. In the shadows, Guen Sun quietly appears by her side.
"The 4th prince had sent his 10th brother away with his wife and the general." Guen Sun reports back to his mistress, "They only have two escorts."
"And my daughter?" Lady Shinjuwon quietly asks, her face devoid of anything to read.
"Still lying asleep on her quarters. The lady's body is not taking kindly to the poison." Guen Sun answers, standing by one of the post, almost melting with the shadows, "She had always been sickly but our physician says, she's doing better."
"How about the 13th prince' woman?"
No sooner, the rain starts to pour but only in drizzle, enough to keep the fog thick.
"Also in their quarters. The general's daughter said her goodbye to Hae Soo Agassi and Woo Hee Agassi, this afternoon. I think they are being cautious as to not associate as many people as with the 10th prince to keep everyone safe."
Guen Sun steps out of the darkness and arranges the Lady Shinjuwon's coat over her, making sure she's comfortably warm.
"And what does the Lady of house ChunJu says about our invitation?"
Guen Sun hesitates to answer, "They will think about it."
Lady Shinjuwon turns to look at her right hand man, her eyes carrying an eerie silence. She takes a steady breathe and walks away without a word.
A berry…
Unfamiliar arms carrying her…
A diffuse color of blue and yellow…
So's voice…. The consort also…
An argument about the 14th prince…
Another berry…
A kiss…
Ha Jin awakes in her bed, her head throbbing a little, her heart palpitating on her chest. Her room is dimmed and the curtains on her windows are drawn closed. Her throat feels parched and she is on her sokgot. She struggles to get up, feeling her joints weak for not being used for a few days. Beside her bed is a side table with a pitcher of water and a glass within her reach. She pours one for herself and by the time she's on her second glass, the dream had receded at the back of her mind. Her head feels a little bit clearer and heart rate is turning normal.
Looking around, she finds So by the floor, still on his day's clothes, his head resting at the edge of her bed, his arm extending near her legs as if he fell asleep holding her hand. He looks tired, his hair messily spread behind him. Ha Jin wonders how long had she been asleep since she ate the berry the consort had offered her.
She reaches out to brush the fallen hair at So's cheeks and at her touch, So easily awakes.
"Soo-ya!" So catches her hand, fear clouding his eyes. While Ha Jin's heart rate is slowing down, his is going fast. He sits up, too afraid of her.
"Why are you sleeping at the floor, wangsejanim? Your back will hurt." Ha Jin automatically worries for him.
"Soo-ya..." So is lost for words. Hae Soo seemed to not remember anything.
Ha Jin tries to reach out to So but So moves away, "What's wrong, So-ya?"
So looks at Hae Soo, searching her eyes. He finds only worry and a little trace of dilation, no doubt effect of the poisoned berry.
"Gwaenchanha…?" He finally remembers to speak, "Do you feel any better?"
"My head hurts but I'll live." Ha Jin downplays her sickness, hoping So doesn't know she ate a berry, "Get-up, your back is probably stiff by now."
"You scared me." So's eyes water, relief that Hae Soo seemed to not remember. More than not remembering, So hopes she didn't see anything, which seemed to be the case since Hae Soo is only concern of his welfare as always rather than her own.
Ha Jin lowers her eyes, bracing her self for a scolding, "Joseonghaeyo So-ya, I only went to the consort's chamber -"
"-Don't ever enter the consort's chamber again." So's grasp tightens on her wrist, almost hurting, "If you are summoned, let me know. I will come in your place. Do you understand?"
Ha Jin is baffled. She knows the consort is dangerous. Given a choice, she will never come near her but So's fear is causing an alarm on her. She can read it in his eyes, fear, desperation and something almost akin to madness. Something she had seen on the consort's eyes before, when she was lashing at her at the ship. It's not always visible to other onlookers, only when you get too close to her. It makes the hair on her nape stand on it's end, triggering something in her memory,
Do you want to know a secret?
Ha Jin shakes her head. She could almost taste the berry in her mouth.
"Yaksokhae! (Promise me.)" So is still clasping at her wrist, pulling her back to the present.
"Yie, wansejanim," The formality in her words sobers So into composure, his eyes wavers, his touch becoming gentle.
"Mianhada, Soo-ya." He pulls at her hand, laying it on his cheeks. His body sags to the floor as if losing his vigor. He rests his head at the edge of the bed, staring longingly at Hae Soo, "I'm so afraid of losing you. Please don't worry me like that again."
"Come to bed, So-ya."
It takes a moment for So to respond, slowly crawling his way up like a sickly child, aching for attention. He lays his head upon her lap, curling his body towards Hae Soo. He closes his eyes. It seems he's the one that needs comforting and not Ha Jin, who had been sick for the last two days.
"I've sent Eun and Soon Deok away." So tells her in a quiet voice, "I'm sorry, you didn't get a chance to say goodbye."
Hae Soo brushes So's hair with her fingers, untangling his messy ponytail, "It doesn't matter, their safety is of utmost important. Will you be alright with the general away?"
"As long as you are with me." So closes his eyes, his troubles slowly being forgotten under Hae Soo's touch.
In the morning, Hae Soo insist on taking a walk at the courtyard, putting into exercise her limbs that she haven't been using. She still looks pale and So supports her as they walk. No sooner, they run into a servant trimming a dwarf shrub near the guest quarters. The servant informs them that the 13th prince and his woman is at the garden behind the courtyard, also taking a lazy morning walk under the tree that has become Woo Hee and Baek-Ah's place.
Today, the grasses are specially green and effervescent. The little rain last night had brought vibrancy on the surrounding plants. The fog had lifted and the sky shares its space with the bright sun and the far away commotion on the soldier's barracks takes back seat on So's worry. He is sure, the consort had already been informed that the 10th prince and his immediate family is missing.
Woo Hee looks up from her embroidery as Hae Soo and So approaches.
"I'm glad to see you are up." Woo Hee greets.
Baek-Ah puts down his gayageum and bows to his 4th brother and Hae Soo, "I told Woo Hee it would be good to come back to some of her routine. Do you feel better, Hae Soo-ya?"
Ha Jin nods, assuring Baek-Ah and Woo Hee.
In the distant, they hear the gong being sound and no sooner a eunuch is sent to give message to the 4th prince.
"Wangsejanim, joseonghabnida, you're presence is being requested by your mother at the official pavilion." Eunuch informs him.
So deposits Hae Soo under his 13th brother's care, assuring them it is nothing.
With worry, Ha Jin watches him walk away.
So takes his time to get to the official pavilion, bracing his self for what punishment the consort would give him for letting his 10th brother free. It will be useless to lie about it and more soldiers will only be put to death if he doesn't own it. He was busy with his thoughts that when he reached the pavilion and the eunuch cleared the way, it is a surprise to see Lady Yoo sitting at the tea table and not Lady Shinjuwon. His uncle, Wang Ryeom Shiek is accompanying his mother.
So stills on his spot, wondering if the eunuch brought him to the wrong place, though his face is devoid of any shock. Apparently the gong they heard a while ago is a signal that someone important had arrived.
"Will you be only standing there or should I rise to give you greetings, wangsejanim?" There is a spite on Lady Yoo's tone that So can't get used to, "Oh, but you are no longer the seja isn't it?"
So doesn't answer.
"How useless." Lady Yoo doesn't bother to get up and takes her cup of tea instead, "If you had let your 3rd brother die and sided with King Hyejong, you should have at least gotten the throne after he dies. How could you let the traitorous Hwangbos take your place?"
It's been so long since the last time So talk to his mother, he was hoping there would have been a change at the way his mother treats him but alas there is none. So keeps his disappointment at bay.
"Will you be standing there the whole time?" Lady Yoo puts back her hot cup of tea, unable to melt his icy glare over her son, "Your mother invited me here but she seems to think she could make us wait all day. What does your mother want?"
So is still reeling from the surprise of seeing the former queen in their palace and then like a light bulb that clicks on his head, he remembers what he proposed to the consort the other week, an alliance with the Yoos of the ChunJu, "How is my brother Jung?"
"No thanks to the king, your 14th brother is doing well." A little change on Lady Yoo's temper as she talks about her youngest son, "Sit down and join us. My neck will hurt by looking up at you."
So takes a seat, still wary of the former queen but there is no denying, he misses his mother so badly.
Lady Yoo pours him a tea and pushes a plate of Dasik (confections) and sweets towards him, albeit begrudgingly but with a touch of concern, as if dangling a carrot to a horse.
So stares at his tea, wanting so badly to take the Dasik, his mother offered.
"It is not poison if you are worrying. This came from your kitchen." Lady Yoo notices the no change in So's demeanor, "Unless you are planning to poison us."
So takes the one of the Dasik and bites into it.
"It's a good start." Lady Yoo comments as she watches So chews the cookies, "Tell me, what will we get if we decide to support your cause and turn our back to the king?"
"You will be re-instated to your positions at the court." So offers.
"And if I want more than that?" Scrutinizing So, Lady Yoo gauges how much can she way So to her side. She can still read the unmistakable longing at So's child's eye.
So doesn't answer.
"Was I wrong to turn my back on you, my son?"
Lost, So stares directly at Lady Yoo's eyes. He had always wanted to hear those words but he catches himself from hoping, stopping to think and examine if Lady Yoo is really sincere or is she using him too.
Awkward silence falls upon them as the three of them wait for the consort to come. Leaves sway into the summer breeze and the sun casts warmth that is comfortable enough to enjoy a good weather.
Not long, a eunuch comes to announce the consort's presence. She steps to the pavilion and the three bows to give their greeting.
"Forgive me, if I have kept you waiting. There's been a little commotion at my backyard this morning." Lady Shinjuwon's eyes strays to So, meeting him with a pretend warning, "Was my son a good company? We have been accommodating his brothers and their wives lately, he's gotten better at not scowling these days."
Lady Shinjuwon meant it as a light joke. It tastes bitter on her mouth but she doesn't lose her icy smile.
"I am grateful to you for letting my son come back to us." Lady Yoo keeps up with the pretenses, "What can I do for you?"
Lady Shinjuwon smiles, hooking her arm into So's, "Shall we sit so we could comfortably talk."
Keeping the king's offer at the back of her mind, Lady Yoo assesses the consort.
It is late into the afternoon when Lady Shinjuwon had Guen Sun escort Lady Yoo and Wang Ryeom Shiek to their gates. The sun is dipping low into the horizon and it will be well into the night by the time Lady Yoo arrives to their hometown.
Lady Shinjuwon is walking with So into her quarters, passed to the courtyard and into the gardens, not far from the guests' quarters. She stops mid walking, turning to So. Her entourage is staying a few meters back.
Slap!
The gungnyeo(s) at the entourage, gasps, turning their gaze somewhere else.
So was expecting Lady Shinjuwon's hand but didn't even move to protect his self, "You freed your brother."
"You poisoned Hae Soo." So doesn't bother to keep the contempt out of his voice. His cheek stings.
They stand looking at each other with anger held back.
"Fair enough." Lady Shinjuwon continues walking as if nothing happened, "You aren't thinking of betraying me to your birth mother, right?"
"You aren't thinking of betraying me to my 14th brother, are you?" So throws back the question to Lady Shinjuwon.
Lady Shinjuwon smirks, turning sweetly to So once again, "You've grown a clout."
"Lady Hae Soo is out of the question." So doesn't back down. With the way the agreement is being drawn a while ago, the Chunju Yu clan is asking for an assurance that the Kangs will not betray them and the bargain chip takes a form of Hae Soo. Lady Yu wants a marriage to seal the deal. So offered them their Chancellery seat back.
Lady Shinjuwon affectionately pats So's cheeks, taking a step intimately closer to him. Her entourage uncomfortably looks away. So keeps himself still in an effort not to flinch. He knows the consort is only playing with him. She whispers in his ears, "Don't make me."
Her arms are around So's shoulder possessively, like a lover instead of a mother. She turns her sight and catches an oncoming unexpected guest from the other side of the garden, walking towards them.
"Ah, my lovely daughter, Hae Soo."
Hae Soo is walking with Woo Hee when they come across Lady Shinjuwon's entourage and decided to follow and check if So is still with the consort.
Frozen in his position, So's heart rate spikes up, nervous. He can't step back until Lady Shinjuwon releases him or risk looking conspicuously strange to outsider's gaze. Lady Shinjuwon knows this and is enjoying So's discomfort.
Woo Hee glances to Hae Soo before they come forward and give their greetings. Lady Shinjuwon steps back and So hastily turns to Hae Soo and Woo Hee.
"Enjoying the weather, I presume?" Lady Shinjuwon asks, a malicious smirk on her face, "Are you feeling better, my daughter?"
Ha Jin takes a second to glance at So before answering, "Yii, eomeonim."
So reaches out to Hae Soo's hand, "We'll be leaving first…"
And hurries Hae Soo and Woo Hee out from there.
Weeks passed and there are no more consequential events passed. It's as if the kingdom is on hold, waiting for the pin to drop and the storm ensues. So is slowly forgetting about Lady Shinjuwon's threat of inviting the king to their palace. It seemed it was all just a trick.
An urgent rap on the door is heard at Hae Soo's quarters. The sky had only turned light purple and the servants are busily hurrying to the kitchens to prepare for the breakfast. One of the men who left with Gen. Park is back and has some news for the 4th prince. His clothes are dirty and sticking in some places. He had arrived and sneaked into the palace at dawn and was pacing the courtyard of guests quarters since he doesn't know where he should be seeking the 4th prince.
Inside, So is putting his night robes over his sokgot when the urgent rap on the door was heard. He doesn't like the sound of it. No one would dare knock on Hae Soo's quarters like that unless it was for him.
Ha Jin, in all her nakedness under the blanket, is starting to stir. So walks over the bed and kisses her good morning in the forehead, assuring her it's not yet time to awake.
"Sleep, my moon, the sun hasn't taken it's place in the sky."
So pulls the blanket higher over Hae Soo's smooth clavicle, brushing her hair that has spread on her pillows. He stands-up and proceeds to the door, promising a punishment to whoever is disturbing his moon's sleep.
"Sunggohabnida, wangsejanim." The soldier stands back, his head bowed nervous of So's presence.
Closing the door behind him, So doesn't feel good about this. They walk into the quarter's foyer and command the soldier to talk on a quiet voice.
"We were at the borders of the Khitan's land when we were surrounded by your sister's men, Yeonhwa Gongju. We were outnumbered as if they knew our route so well.
The soldier had always served under him and Gen. Park. He is one of the trusted people the general had trained under him, "We were brought to the princess' courtyard and were detained under her command. I was allowed to go to let you know of what happened."
So calmly listens but his tense fist hanging on both sides are a give away, "What does my sister want? Did she demand anything?"
"Only that you show yourself to the king's court. The news of your brothers being banished and you being stripped of your position as the crown prince had the king in the palm of your sister's hand." The soldier reports, "They were talking of handing the 10th prince, his wife and the general back to your 8th brother, the king, unless you broker some kind of negotiation with them."
It doesn't make sense to So. One of the generals and a few ministers of the Khitan were present on their secret meeting at gyobang. They all pledge support to him and the general. It seems he needed them after all. The Khitans have always been in alliance with his adopted clan. The consort might have gotten wind up of their escape plan. Extending a hand with his sister, Yeonhwa, would be highly unlikely of the consort but nothing seems to be how it was these days.
By midmorning, the soldier reporting to So is arranging provisions on their two horses at the stable while Hae Soo and Baek-Ah are talking to So outside.
"Soo-ya, I need you to stay with Baek-Ah at all times. He is the only one we can trust inside this place." So squeezes Hae Soo's hand with firmness, "Please remember not to go to the consort's quarters no matter what happens. If you are summoned bring Baek-Ah with you. Do not be alone with her. Do you understand?"
Ha Jin arranges the dagger on So's blade, the one she gave him, "Araso, Ju-sim-haseyo. (Please, take care of yourself.)"
So nods and moves to Baek-Ah, "I trust that you would look after her and Lady Woo Hee. I'm sorry that I had to put this responsibility on your shoulders."
"Don't mention it, hyungnim." Baek-Ah assures his 4th brother, "I am grateful that you have kept us safe here."
"Please don't ever trust the consort, no matter what she offers." Though there is urgency for them to leave, So calmly instructs his brother, "She plays with people's lives. She will never offer anything without asking something in return. Stay low and far away from her as much as possible."
So doesn't want to leave Baek-Ah and Hae Soo in this palace with the consort. He would rather send them to the Yu clan, where Jung can look after them but the consort would never let Hae Soo go.
And as if on cue, Guen Sun and his men, who are about to check on the grounds of the palace arrive, "Going somewhere, So wangsejanim?"
So doesn't answer and touches Hae Soo in the hair, looks at her one last time and releases her hand. He nods at Baek-Ah and the two walks away. So watches them leave before turning for the horse that the soldier had brought for him.
"I will be in the town if the consort asks for me." So mounts his horse.
"It's too early to visit the gyobang, wangsejanim." Guen Sun says in a mocking tone, "I didn't know your sister approves of your excursion there."
So chooses not to pay attention to Guen Sun and mounts his horse to leave. He and the soldier raced passed the side gate leading to the forest, torn thinking between Yeonhwa's motive and Hae Soo's safety inside the northern palace. The last time he felt sympathy for Yeonhwa was when they had that talked in the forest while they were on a stop over to deliver her to the Khitans. The decision that time wasn't easy. It was her or he and Hae Soo. Though he felt guilty about what he did, it's every man for their self in the palace and Yeonhwa understood it. He just didn't anticipate that Yeonhwa is capable of hurting their 10th brother for her own gain.
Later that day, Ji Mong's messenger arrives at the northern palace. He was late by a week, held up by so many check-points in every city. The king had tightened the security for the preparation of his trip to the northern palace. No one is allowed to travel from city to city unless it is a palace matter. The messenger had to keep to the mountains and avoid notice.
The messenger can't locate the general or the 4th prince and he doesn't know what to do. He finds the 13th prince instead and hands him the letter. Inside, is the detailed account of King Jeongjong's plan to visit the northern palace and a report of what is happening in the capital.
Baek-Ah couldn't believe what he has read. His mind is starting to have doubts about how much does the general and his 4th brother have been hiding things from him and Eun. He understands that it might be to their protection that the two are keeping it a secret but Baek-Ah couldn't help feeling the blossoming of betrayal upon his chest. While they were busy planning to escape to later Jin, his clan, Eun's clan's and Woo Hee's people are suffering in the hands of the king. The guilt has started eating upon him. Seeing it on the astronomer's report and knowing it is for So and Gen. Park's eyes only makes him all the more helpless.
Early in the morning, gungnyeo(s) and servants gather at the opening courtyard of the main gate of the northern palace. The palace guards are standing in attention atop the walls, only a third of them are on display while the majority of the Kang's militia is hidden and strategically situated around the lands of Kangs.
At the head of the assembly, Lady Shinjuwon has her sit situated at the top of the steps, outside her throne room, overlooking the palace grounds and the main gate. Guen Sun, is on Lady Shinjuwon's left while Hae Soo is on her right. In the absence of the 4th prince and the general and being of a royal blood, Baek-Ah is beside Hae Soo. He can see Woo Hee, dressed on a noble hanbok, standing at the head of the gungnyeo(s) at the courtyard. She had been well and up these past few days and though she is no longer one of the court ladies, being the only casual resident of the palace, she is required to be present at the gathering. Her dark purple hanbok looks almost in uniform with the gungnyeo(s)' black and dark violet chima. All three of them are unaware of what the gathering is for.
Shortly a gong is sounded as one of the palace guard spots in the woods the presence of three riders carrying a banner of the king. Behind them, Wook is riding in his horse, accompanied by Won, while Ji Mong is on his left. Their escorts are hundreds of palace soldiers, extending to more than a kilometer behind their back.
Wook looks regal in his capricious black king robes with golden dragon over his back. His horse walks ever so slowly as it enters the main gate into the courtyard, drawing everyone's notice in him while his soldiers fill the entirety of the courtyard.
Ha Jin and Baek-ah exchange look, struggling not to show their horrified faces.
The Chunju Yu clan headed my Lady Yu and Wang Ryeon Shiek enters the main gate after the king's soldier had taken their place. They too have their own entourage and take their place in front of the aisle. Jung catches Baek-ah's eyes at the top steps, both maintaining a stoic expression on their faces.
With all the of the servants' head bowed, their eyes casted on the grounds, everyone seemed to have held their breath, waiting.
Will the king unmounts his horse or will Lady Shinjuwon go down from her throne?
Ji Mong spots his little queen infinitesimally puts her weight at the back of her heel, putting her out of the king's direct eye line and behind Baek-Ah.
Wook holds his horse at the beginning of the steps and Lady Shinjuwon rises from her throne. She takes to the step with deliberate slowness, the way Wook did. She stops at the middle of the steps and gives her greeting. She does bow her head but with her at the middle steps and Wook still on his horse, they are on the same level and this doesn't escape anyone's notice.
"You have come, Pyeha."
"Pyeha," Wook samples the word on his mouth, under his breathe. A smirk appears on his lips, bordering on amusement and annoyance, "I never imagined the northern palace would be… breathtaking."
Lady Shinjuwon rises from her greetings, "It is my pleasure to offer you my home."
Though the tone is supposed to be warm, Wook is all the more wary of it. As if what happened at the beginning of Spring is all forgotten.
"Just a little bit cold to my liking." Wook's eyes settles on Hae Soo, who is trying to make herself look scarce, "We could use some warmth."
"Of course," Lady Shinjuwon smiles, "Where are my manners?"
As if receiving their command, the northern guards stationed at the throne steps apprehends the 13th prince while another set of northern guards take a hold of Woo Hee in the crowd.
Guen Sun automatically holds Hae Soo back, who looks horrified, surprised of what is going on. Dread starting to fill her chest.
"Eomeonim!" Ha Jin remembers to address the consort the way she wanted to be called, "Please, what is happening?"
"What is the meaning of this?" Baek-Ah struggles out of the guards hold as he and Woo Hee are brought to the stairs, forced to kneel below Wook's horse.
Baek-Ah reaches to Woo Hee's wrist, clutching tightly to her.
Lady Yu and Wang Ryeom Shiek hold Jung down. They seemed well informed and had anticipated this.
"As a token of my apology, let me offer you an initial gift." Lady Shinjuwon addresses the king, "I have taken good care of your people. I'm sure you'll be glad to have them back."
Wook's eyes stray to his traitor of a brother, "My garrison had missed them."
"Hyungnim!" Baek-Ah appeals to the king as his brother, "Jebal, please take me instead of my wife."
"I never knew you got married, my brother." Wook's eyes are cold steel with no sympathy. He turns to his soldiers, "Put them in a holding cell."
Baek-Ah and Woo Hee continues to struggle out of guards' hold as they are dragged away.
Against Guen Sun's firm grip, Ha Jin looks at Lady Shinjuwon and Wook with spite.
The kitchen quarters of the northern palace is busy preparing a massive feast for today's lunch, dinner and tomorrow's feast. Hundreds of town's people were hired to fill the temporary position. Every pot is lit and the summer harvests are lined in rows of boxes being prepared. Everywhere is busy, servants rushing from one quarter to another and the eunuch serving the royalties.
Without the colored uniforms, no one can distinguish which soldier is from where. Not only did the king brought thousands of his men, the Chunju Yu Clan's private militia didn't fail to compete in numbers. It seems the three most powerful clans, who once owned the Chancellery seat, have now gathered in the northern palace and no once had anticipated its precedence. Everyone can feel the tension. The feast for tomorrow is no doubt going to be decisive.
Though the Chunju Yu clan came behind the king, no one can say, which house will they play for. Either two clans will form an alliance and eliminate another or all three clans will perish into the game they are playing. It is the talk of the provinces, from north to Tamna (Jeju Do.)
At the capital town of Shinju, soldiers in black uniforms are seen wandering everywhere. Their town had never been this busy. The gyobangs are filled. The streets are swarmed with nobles, servants and soldiers alike. The shops are crowded. Horses galloping and tons of unmarked boxes are being pulled in carts. By night, the carts were left unsuspectingly on some places. It even found its way at the northern palace.
Lady Shinjuwon is taking a stroll into her poisonous garden, having a discreet conversation with Guen Sun, "Where is the 4th prince now?"
"Being kept by his sister at the Khitan's camp." Guen Sun answers in a low voice, "Though I'm sure the news of the king arriving at our palace steps would have reached him by now."
"It doesn't matter." Lady Shinjuwon shrugs, "It would be too late by the time he comes. Where's my daughter?"
The two of them stops at the center of the garden, to the tea table where Lady Shinjuwon usually rests, her mittens and an empty glass bowl lying on top.
"At her quarters." Guen Sun pulls a chair for Lady Shinjuwon but she doesn't sit.
"Make sure she doesn't leave the palace no matter what happens." Lady Shinjuwon puts on her mittens and takes the bowl with her.
Guen Sun nods, shadowing his mistress as she walks around the garden, plucking some of her berries.
At the storage quarters where carts are being lined to be emptied, two servants were in charge of carrying the boxes of vegetables out of the cart. The drivers have disappeared to the storage, organizing while some of them helped in the kitchen.
"That was the king?" A young servant of the kitchens carries fresh vegetables from one cart to another, gossiping with another servant.
"He looks regal, handsome as every king should be." The second servant follows. "Like a character straight out of book."
"But I still prefer our 4th prince." The kitchen servant disputes, "The king appears to be gentle but I heard he's more cruel than the late king, their father."
"Our 4th prince doesn't fall short of being fearsome." The second servant says matter of factly, straining her back as she carries another heavy box out of the carriage.
"But only because of how he was brought up by the consort. My parents used to deliver these vegetables before and they always fetched home stories about the 4th prince being maltreated by the consort." The kitchen servant comes back to the cart and picks up a box of carrots.
"I hear the scar he had on his left eye was made by the consort but none of us ever saw it." The second servant adds, "Do you think it was true? Some older servants says it is but I only saw our 4th prince without his mask. He looks gorgeous and scary at the same time."
"Do you think so?" The kitchen servant stops mid walking to think, "I don't understand his relationship with consort though. It is true that she maltreats him when he was younger but he had also been sharing her bed…"
"Shhhhh…" The other servant exclaims, "Do you want to be put to death?"
The kitchen servant catches herself and shuts her mouth with her hand. She looks around making sure no one had heard her. There is fear on her eyes, chewing her lips for saying her mind out loud.
Ji Mong is walking around the palace, lost as to where to find Hae Soo's quarters. He'd been discreetly treading the kitchen quarters looking for someone to ask but no servant wants to answer him. Servants of the northern palace are trained not to talks to outsiders specially when they ask information about the royalties who live in the northern palace.
He accidentally over hears the last of the gossip and didn't quite understand who is sharing the bed of whom. He's in a hurry and doesn't care for the gossip. He makes his way to them and the servants jump out of surprise.
"Joesonghabnida, ladies" Ji Mong introduces his self as the adviser of the king, "Do you by any chance know where I could find the daughter of the household?"
The two servants look fearful, stepping back and keeping their mouth shut like every other servants that came before them.
"It's alright. Do not be afraid. If you could be so kind as to point me to the direction of where I could find the daughter of this palace, I would be very grateful and not tell your mistress that you were gossiping while doing your job." Ji Mong is out of patience and is resorting to intimidation since a polite question doesn't seem to get answers from these servants.
The servants drop into their knees, begging for their lives, "Joesonghabnida, jebal. Chal mot haesseubnida, please spare us."
Ji Mong taps his foot impatiently.
"Lady Hae Soo is staying at the 4th prince' quarter, near the guest quarters." The kitchen servant pleads, "At the opposite side of the palace, east of where the consort quarters is."
"Good. I'll be on my way." Ji Mong pardons the servant and quickly leaves. "You shall not speak to anyone about this."
"Yii, nari." The two servants answers obediently.
With careful and deliberate steps, hiding from the soldiers making rounds around the palace, an anxious Ha Jin finds her way to the barracks were Baek-Ah and Woo Hee is being held. They were put on the same cell, Eun used to occupy.
Ha Jin dashes to a wall for safety when four soldiers make their way unto the next courtyard. As she leaves the safety of her cover, a hand covers her mouth and holds her back.
"What the hell are you doing?" Jung stills Hae Soo on his arms.
When Ha Jin recognizes the voice, she relaxes and Jung lets her go. She suddenly embraces Jung out of relief, "I'm so glad you're alright."
Jung had to hold himself back. He had forgotten Hae Soo could be this affectionate and before he could even reel from her unexpected embrace, Hae Soo lets go and looks at him from head to foot, examining how he had been.
Ha Jin observes the difference on the way Jung dresses, his hair is down, no longer on that ponytail he used to share with his 4th brother. Jung struggles not to show that his left leg is still not fully healed.
"We need to help Baek-Ah and Woo Hee out of their cell." Ha Jin pleads.
"Ara. (I know.)" Jung answers, his surprise is slowly being replaced with annoyance, "Where's my 4th brother? Why are you alone?"
Worry fills Ha Jin's eyes, going through the end of the wall to take a peek at the courtyard, "Eun wangjanim, Soon Deok and Park Janggun are being held by Yeonhwa Gongju at the Khitan's camp."
"Eh?"
"So wangsejanim went to negotiate with her." Ha Jin busies herself with observing the courtyard.
"You need to leave." Jung grabs Ha Jin's arm and makes her look at him, "It is not safe for you to be here. Doesn't my 4th brother know that the king is coming?"
She and Baek-Ah were caught off guard this morning with the king's arrival, "I guess so."
"Of course," Jung is irritated. His only concern is Hae Soo and his 13th brother. He left knowing that they are safe and protected and now everything is in chaos. "If he knew, he wouldn't leave you here. When did he left?"
"A few days ago." Ha Jin answers, her eyes clouded with worry for Baek-Ah and Woo Hee. How many arrests had they had? It feels like it's becoming a cycle already. They all knew they can't trust the consort and they are out of safe places to hide.
"I need you to leave." Jung drags Hae Soo out of there.
Ha Jin struggles, "I can't. Jung-ah jebal. We can't leave Woo Hee and Baek-Ah here. The king will put them to death."
"Ara-rago! (I know!)" Jung is running out of patience, "I don't know the deal between the king and the consort but the king also broker a deal with my mother, who also broker a deal with the consort. Do you see it now?! Do you understand?! Everyone will betray everyone eventually. It is only a matter of time before someone breaks the alliance first and starts the bloodshed. You need to leave. You're the bargaining card!"
She understood all of it. She always knew but she kept denying it. She stops struggling and stills, "Ara. But it is useless to leave now. It's too late. Where will I go? If Park Janggun failed to reached the Later Jin, what makes you think that I can? And what about Baek-Ah and Woo Hee? I can't just think of my own safety. The consort will surely make So wangsejanim suffer if I disappear."
"And my 4th brother would rather take the beating than have you stay here. Leave… jebal." Jung tries a different approach, "I will arrange for So wangsejanim's men to break Woo Hee Agassi and Baek-Ah hyungnim out of their cell."
As Jung leads Ha Jin out of the courtyard, they run through Guen Sun and his men, "Ah, here is the 14th prince. The consort wants a conversation with you, if you don't mind."
Jung and Ha Jin exchanges a discreet look. The words are polite, as if Jung has an option to say no but the two of them knows it is not the case.
"I will have Hae Soo, Agassi escorted back to her quarters. The Lady consort wouldn't want her wandering around with all these… people around." Guen Sun had his men surround Hae Soo but they keep their distance, not touching while Guen Sun takes by Jung's side, all authoritative, "Shall we?"
Jung doesn't have a choice and walks with Guen Sun after watching Hae Soo leave first.
The sun is low in the orange sky and a bit of moon is already showing. Won walks towards the withholding cell of Woo Hee and Baek-Ah, accompanied by his own two body guards. He nods to the soldiers manning the quarters and continuously walk through.
The walk inside is not far. Four cells line each side of the prison and Woo Hee and Baek-Ah were separated on different cell. Won finds them both, sitting with their backs on the wall that separate them, their hands intertwined through the rods of their cell.
"Ah, may favorite lady." Won greets, "And of course my little brother."
Baek-Ah looks up but never lets go of Woo Hee's hand.
"Don't I get a greeting?" Won asks, smiling smugly over the couple.
"Hyungnim, why are you doing this to us?" Baek-Ah's increasing anger is not missed by Woo Hee.
Won looms over Woo Hee, neglectful of Baek-Ah, "I came to see my lady."
Woo Hee shakes out of nervousness, staying quiet.
"My lady?" Baek-Ah asks
"Eoh, my lady." Won repeats, "Had she never told you?"
Won goes to the floor, at level with Woo Hee, taunting her, "Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. You gave yourself to my 13th brother, had yourself banished, lost your baby and you still haven't told him?"
Woo Hee doesn't answer, her hands hesitatingly lets go of Baek-Ah but Baek-Ah held it tighter.
"Tell me what?" Baek-Ah is at a lost, trying to see Woo Hee through the wall that separates them.
Won smiles sweetly, never taking his eyes off Woo Hee, "That she belongs to us. Our pretty little spy."
Baek-Ah's other hand closes over the rod of his cell, "What are you talking about? Don't lie."
"Am I?" Won repeats, "Am I lying, Woo Hee-ya?"
Woo Hee's intertwined hand with Baek-Ah goes still and a panic is starting to rise on Baek-Ah with every second that Woo Hee keeps her silence.
"Take her." Won commands on his guards.
"Mwo?!" Baek-Ah holds tightly to Woo Hee as the guards open her cell and takes a hold of her. Baek-Ah is forced to let go of Woo Hee's hands as they drag her out.
"Won hyungnim, jebal…" Baek-Ah pleads, "What are you going to do to my wife?"
Won keeps the smile on his face, "Nothing. What will I do to her? She belongs to us so I am setting her free."
Won follows out, leaving Baek-Ah panicking over Woo Hee, his mind still not grasping the fact that Woo Hee had been on Won's side all along. He refuses to believe it that she is their spy.
Preview:
Shall we have the northern palace burn to the ground? Who should we grant the honor of doing it?
Editor's note:
Ok, post now, edit later. Mianhaeyo. I had a week off on my birthday so I finally had the chance to write. Now, I'm swamped again ^^ The peach blossom had bloomed. It so pretty. Let's find time to watch them before the wind empties their branches.
