The Evil mind: light within Darkness

Disclaimer: I do not own anything from this story. Credits to the owners of Queen Seondeok series.

Warning : extremely dangerous ideas. Please don't read. Dark Bidam. Dark Mishil. Dark Deokman. All evil stuff. Dark controversial themes. Violence. Looking through the eyes of those who committed "evil".. Lol

A/n: I do not wish to touch this subject publicly, but I think I really need to understand the entire story by looking into the great leaders' mind -who does 'good and evil' in the name of what they believed.


.

.

As Deokman and Bidam traveled as Merchant couple, they left several of their people and planted spies along the way.

Together, they created the most widely connected intelligence network in all the Samhan. And Deokman became the first leader of the combined forces of Nameless guild and their own. She named it as Munmyong Guild.

Finally, they arrived in Rome. During that time, Deokman felt like she was the same 15 year old desert girl who loved to travel, see different places, meet new people and read interesting books.

Her heart is filled with happiness and fond memories, an experience she didn't imagine to be possible. To the point that she felt like a new and reborn person. As though she wasn't the lonely King who once ruled over millions of people in the far kingdom of Shilla.

It almost felt like it was a crime to be this happy.

Bidam on the other hand basked in the happiness eminating from his beloved, while carrying his son in his arms. Immensely grateful for the blessings of good and happy life he has.

Deokman saw Bidam kissing their son and it filled her heart with gratitude. Thus she run to him and hugged him together with their child.

Together, they looked like a normal, happy and lovely family enjoying the beautiful sunset in the building complex of Rome. Without a care in the world.

Deokman is eternally thankful for this life she shared with Bidam and their son.


Xxxx

Chapter 1: Mishil - the woman raised to become a wife to powerful men. Who dreamed to become the most powerful woman in the Kingdom, the Queen.

Mishil is a very talented, smart, and graceful child. She belongs to the clan that serves the King's of Shilla. So even in her tender age, she learned how to please men and get what she wants.

She's a genius protégé who gain the fancy of many men including the King, because of her unmatched beauty. Aside from that, she was also trained in martial arts and politics. So it is no wonder that King Jinyeong noticed her incredible leadership skills. Thus he chose her to become the wonhwa of the Hwarangs.

Mishil became widely acclaimed and praised as one of the three geniuses of King Jinyeong's era, alongside Munno- the Kingdom's protector and Seolwon- the man who walks in the clouds. She also lead armies to fend off Gogoryeo forces in the borders and saved a dying Chilsuk.

During her time as Wonhwa, she fell in love with Hwarang Sadaham. It came to a point that she had decided to abandon everything for him. To elope, get married and have children with Sadaham. To live a happy and peaceful life with him, away from the palace.

But then something bad happened.

In a war they participated, Mishil and Seolwon became the bait team. And she was forced to kill Daebong, her nangdo and close friend, because he tried to abandon his duty to the kingdom.

Her heart felt numb and her hand didn't stop shaking. Guilt shredded her heart. But then something changed inside of her.

As she killed more and more people that she cared, her hand never shook again. And her heart become frozen. And the king's trust in her started to fade, because of the rumor.

That Mishil's beauty is the one that would destroy Shilla. That's what the Hwarangs says whenever they fought against themselves out of jealousy to one another for her attention.

She would never admit it then, that her dream to prove them wrong and become the Queen formulated in her mind. She wants to show them that her beauty isn't a curse but a blessing to this country. A power to control the kingdom, and make it the most powerful country.

And thus, when the son of the Prime Minister, Minister Sejong proposed to marry her. Mishil agreed. Seeing the chance to move in to the 2nd highest caste rank of Shilla. Giving up on her love for Sadaham- who was just a farmer, king Jinyeong elevated to the rank of Hwarang - despite how painful it is, for the sake of her dream. Her dream of becoming a Queen.

Sadaham became heartbroken, but still, he remained true to his love for Mishil. Thus, before leaving to participate in another war against the Baekji, he left the Plum de Sadaham to Mishil as a gift to his beloved. It was a Gayan calendar and Wulchon, the Gayan astronomer he saved from being killed by the Gayan king.

And that gift, became Mishil's power.

Sadaham died in the war. It caused deep and painful wound in Mishil's frozen heart. She became ill and unable to perform her task as a Wonhwa and a priestess.

That time, King Jinyeong couldn't perform the sacred ceremony for the people to ask for the Heavens blessing to send rain, because he was fighting in a war against Baekji. Thus he ordered Mishil to stand in his place.

Though she's very ill, the other priestess dragged Mishil to the ceremonial stage to perform the prayer for the rain, because the people were concerned of the draughts that plagued their lands.

Despite shaking and weakened, Mishil performed the sacrifice and the sky suddenly darken, and the rain poured. And since then, she became the sacred Highpriest. The people worshipped her.

Her power grow, as she was appointed by the king as Seju - the Kingdom's keeper. With her leadership skills, she was able to manage the provinces and the palace like a powerful Queen. But she was not an official queen, and her rank was still lower than the actual queen, and so she devised a plan to become even more powerful.

King Jinyeong finally made Mishil, his royal consort, unable to resist her temptation and beauty. The country considers her as a national treasure. Even the king believes so. And yet he was also concerned by her potential.

If Mishil was born male and a son of a sacred Royal, she could possibly become even more powerful than him. A worthy king.

But she is a woman. A very cruel and cunning woman. Behind her unmatched beauty is a goal oriented woman who would stop at nothing to become a Queen.

And though he loved Mishil. The king decided to order her death the moment he died, because her corruption would only lead to Shilla's destruction if he died first. For he is the only person who can barely tame such a tigress.

Mishil saw through all of the signs of the King's distrust in her, and so she realigned her priorities and changed loyalties. She stole the king's trusted men secretly, using her power and beauty.

And finally won over General Seolwon and Prince Jinji. She also earned Munno's respect, but he refused to bow to her. Though he decided not to get in her way and let her do as she pleased, knowing how capable Mishil is to run the kingdom.

Unknown to King Jinyeong, Mishil has successfully poached almost all of his powerful generals, ministers and trusted men. And at the last moments of his life, he feared that everything he had worked so hard for, for Shilla would be gone because of Mishil and the enemies of the kingdom. And failed to establish a strong heir to his throne.

Later, Mishil put Prince Jinji in the throne because of his promise to her, to make her his Queen. She also destroyed and erased any information about the dream's of the kings because it would be dangerous for the kingdom and disadvantageous to the aristocrates like her and her allies.

But Jinji betrayed her. He refused to name her as his Queen, and let his mother Queen Jiso exile her to the mountains when she is pregnant with his son. For the king only favored his Queen who bore him sons: Prince Yungchun and Prince Yungsu.

At the mountain, Mishil reevaluated her life and decided that she would fight to become the Queen no matter what. With her son in her arms, she marched to the palace and pleaded with King Jinji once more to make her the Queen.

And the king just ignored her. It caused her pained heart to become even more frozen. Looking at her beloved son, prince Hyeongjong (Bidam), her dreams shattered to pieces.

Thus she left her son on the floor of the throne room. Abandoning him forever. She no longer needs him. Because now, she's going to destroy the father of her son.

With the Generals, the Hwarangs, the highpriests, and Ministers power. Mishil removed Jinji to the throne and made Prince Baekjong the new King of Shilla. And became his royal consort, a way to become the Queen, despite their gap in age.

Mishil then ordered to kill the pregnant Lady Maya, because she is her competition in the crown. But through the help of Munno, Lady Maya came back to the palace and became the Queen.

Mishil lost her chance to become the Queen again. But it seemed that her luck hasn't run out yet. Because the Queen gave birth to a twin, a cursed prophecy that stated 'The king' s royal lineage would be broken by a twin birth".

But then, another prophecy came. Warning Mishil that when the 8th set of star of the King's constellation appears, her power would be defeated by a child born on that night. So she ordered Chilsuk and her armies to kill the twin no matter what.

But once again, Munno arrived and saved the youngest daughter of the king. Together with Sowa, Munno, the baby and Chilsuk disappeared that night.

.

.

Chapter 2: Cheonmyeong - the princess raised as a hope to defeat Mishil. But became prisoner of Mishil's power. And lived in constant fear.

Cheonmyeong is a kind and graceful young princess. But her youth were filled with constant fear of Mishil. And despite being told that she's the one born to defeat Mishil, her fear for her never even let her breathe peacefully inside the palace. She felt like she's walking on egg shells all the time. Even in her sleep, Mishil haunted her dreams.

But what's more disconcerting was that, Mishil claimed that she's the reason all of her brothers died. And also saw her mother, the Queen cried claiming that it was her fault that the princes died, and should be punished.

But her father, the king claimed that he would never give up his beloved queen and his daughter because of the prophecy.

Even in a very young age, Cheonmyeong then understands that, the royal family has no power against Mishil. And so she felt like a prisoner.

The only thing that breathed life into her, was when she married Yungsu.

The king was given hope, and thus he appointed Yungsu as the crown prince and made Cheonmyeong the new Wonhwa of the Hwarangs.

"Are you planning to become the Queen and rival me, Princess Cheonmyeong?" Mishil asked smiling. "And thus, you assume my old position to have power over the Hwarangs?"

"No lady Mishil. I have no plan at all" Cheonmyeong denied. "I am just honestly doing my best at my duty"

Mishil laughed. "Princess Cheonmyeong, you can be loyal to your duty and plan something at the same time, when your duty aligns to your goals"

This made Cheonmyeong worried. Because she honestly never even admitted to herself that she's doing her best to gain power to face Mishil. Not when she's still struck with fear of her cruelty. For that woman can easily kill and torture anyone she dislike.

Later during Yungsu's coronation as Crown prince. Mishil and her allies protested, stating that since King Jinji was incompetent, his sons also lost their chance to become the king. And that the prince has yet to prove himself to the kingdom.

Cheonmyeong become fearful for her beloved when she learned that Mishil sent Yungsu to the borders to conquer the borders of Yisong.

But she has no power to stop her husband from going to war.

And later on, her worst nightmare came true. Her husband died in the war.

She felt heartbroken, but she has to continue living for her unborn child. And so she pleaded with the king to resign from her post and live in the temple.

After a few months, she gave birth to her son, which she named as Chunchu. His name means time, the only thing that can definitely defeat Mishil.

Then she gave her son to Duke Yungchun, younger brother of her husband. And through him, she learned that Munno is in the temple of Eurisa. Thus she traveled to meet him.

But then she met an orphaned boy who disrespected her like no other. Who taught her how to stand up for herself and have hope despite how hopeless the situation is.

He also unknowingly defeated Mishil by exposing her plot to assassinate the monks in Eurisa.

They become close friend. And thus she assigned Deokman to the young Hwarang Yushin, as a nangdo.

She wants to keep them beside her, for they taught her a lesson and gave her hope.

(flash back)

"whether it's honesty or subterfuge. It doesn't matter, when they are the same" she accused. "no one would know that you made a mistake"

"Even if no one would know I made a mistake. I still need to correct it" Yushin said in defense. "If I am honest with myself, I can change things inside me. And then the things around me would also change... Hope. At least I can have hope that things would change for the better"

(end flashback)

Deokman and Yushin, were the ones that gave her strength to fight Mishil. And to hope for a better future.

.

.

Chapter 3: Yushin- the boy raised to become the hope of the fallen kingdom of Gaya. A man who dreamed of being part of the dream of the kings of shilla.

Hwarang Suyon and Princess Manmyeong, King Jinyeong's sister, eloped out of love, knowing that the palace would never let them get married, because they fear that a Gayan prince would become linked to the royal family of Shilla. Giving the gaya some form of power in the throne.

Because of that event Queen mother, their mother removed Manmyeong's right as a royalty and was banished to the province of Mano. She and Suyon has bore several children. And Yushin is the eldest son.

They taught him loyalty and honesty. To be a truthful warrior

And a hope to the fallen kingdom of Gaya.

Thus Yushin grew up to carry the burden of looking after the remnants of their conquered kingdom. Carrying in his heart the failure and defeat of his ancestors and people.

And so, he strived to become strong. Doing 10,000 strikes everyday without fail.

But one day his life changed when he met an orphaned boy who almost endangered his life and his family. Because he had mistakenly mistreated the princess who he had thought to be just an ordinary monk, an associate to the thief orphan boy.

And because of that event, the princess invited him and his family to the capital. He became an unofficial Hwarang of Seorobol because the other Hwarangs refused to acknowledge them.

Having a Gayan ancestry means mistreatment in the hands of the aristocrates of Shilla. He and his team were constantly being humiliated by them.

He trained himself and his team as hard as he could, to prepare them. Though the most concerning thing that bothered him the most was that, Deokman, the orphaned boy he used to get annoyed at. Is actually a girl.

He couldn't believe his eyes when he saw her bathing that night. He was torn between kicking her out of his team and keeping her beside him. Because no matter how he tried to convince her to give up being a soldier, she never listened to him.

During the war, he learned that General Seolwon sacrificed his father and his team, to win the Fortress of Sukhang. Saying that in order to win, one must sacrifice one's flesh to destroy the enemy's bones. He rushed to relay the message to his father and his soldiers.

Then there he found Deokman, wounded in the middle of the battle field.

How could he had let her fight in a battle? He had thought to himself. War is difficult for men, but it is exponentially dangerous for a woman to survive in.

But Deokman proved herself worthy and capable. Because of her, Alcheon and all the wounded survived.

Making him proud and grateful that they all returned home at last.

Though he had some feelings for the princess, but somehow, what he felt for Deokman is just on another level. More than comrades. He would never admit it then, but he secretly love her.

And when he learned that she was actually a princess, twin sister of Princess Cheonmyeong, and being haunted by Mishil's clan and the king's supporters. He chose to be with her. To protect her.

But when Bidam took her away, and traded her for pieces of wild ginger, he had finally realized and admitted to himself that he loved Deokman. And thinking that he would lost her forever drove him mad. Thus he was able to escape his cage to rescue her.

Later on, he confessed his feelings to Deokman and urged her to elope with him. But something bad happened.

The princess who was his future fiancee died. And Deokman become devastated because she knew that her sister died in the process of protecting her.

Thus she chose to remain in Seorobol and take revenge.

Yushin tried to reason with her. But Deokman rejected his love and chose her goal to become the king of Shilla. To take revenge and punish everyone that made her life miserable. And defeat Mishil to take justice for Cheonmyeong's death.

He became heartbroken, but then he later understood one thing. If Deokman wants to become the king, then he must make her his king. That way, he and Deokman can walk on similar path together. Even that way, he could love her from afar and protect his people at the same time.

Thus he allied himself with the Gaya rebel and established himself as Deokman's trusted right hand man. His goal is to become the King's power, and elevate the rank of the Gayans in the court of Shilla. And be part of the dream of the kings.

.

.

Chapter 4: Bidam - the man secretly raised to become the King of Shilla and unite the three kingdoms of han. But whose darkness, overwhelms even the legendary swordsman, who raised him.

After Mishil abandoned her son, King Jinji asked Munno to take care of his son.

Thus Munno took Bidam and raised him like his son. For he believed that he is the future of the kingdom, the one who will unite the three kingdoms of han : Gogoryeo, Baekji, and Shilla. According to Bidam's birth prophecy.

Thus during that night when the 8th set of the king's star appears, he came to rescue the child who was destined to defeat Mishil.

"She needs to return to Shilla. For she has a great duty to the kingdom" Munno said to Sowa. "So you need to take good care of her"

"Huh?" Sowa asked surprised. "But the king ordered that I should take her away from Shilla and never take her back to the palace"

"The King said so, because he still didn't know" Munno reasoned.

A one year old Bidam suddenly appeared and went to the baby's side. Touching her face. The baby in turn reached out to the boy.

"Isn't she beautiful, Bidam?" Munno asked, making the boy smile. "Someday, she will become your wife and Queen"

"Huh?" Sowa asked in disbelief." But isn't he Mishil's son? "

"Mishil already abandoned him." Munno argued. "There is a divine reason why Mishil's son is in my care along with the child who is destined to defeat Mishil. I believe this is my mission in life. I will raise the both of them to become a powerful King and Queen of Shilla, that will unite the SamHan"

"But..." Sowa weakly protested.

"They are the ones who will fulfill the dream of King Jinyeong for this country" Munno reasoned, knowing that the baby and Bidam's destiny are tied together by their birth star. "That is there destiny"

Sowa and Munno looked down at the sleeping princess, and saw Bidam laughing joyfully.

But then Sowa didn't do as they agreed. She never arrived in China. And since then Munno has no news about her and the princess's whereabouts.

Thus he focused all his energy in preparing Bidam to fulfill the dream of the kings of shilla. Together they traveled to Baekji and Gogoryeo to create his books, with Yumjong's help.

"Teacher... Why are we visiting dangerous places all the time?" young Bidam asked curiously.

"Is that what you want to know?" Munno asked kindly to the boy.

"Yes" he answered enthusiastically.

"You are a really curious child" Munno praised. "I am preparing something for you"

"For me?" Bidam asked excitedly. "Is that on the bag, all for me?"

"Yes" Munno agreed smiling. "And that's why you should continue studying delegently, Bidam"

"I will, teacher" Bidam agreed excitedly, hugging the bag tightly.

'this is all for me' he thought to himself happily. 'Mine'

"What should a good leader focus on, Bidam?" Munno asked engagingly.

"A good leader should focus on the entire picture" Bidam answered enthusiastically.

"Correct!" Munno praised. "What is the difference between war and daily life?"

"War and daily life has no difference" Bidam answered.

"Correct!" Munno praised again. "How can a leader control his people?"

"A leader should know what his people's desires and fears" Bidam answered.

Knowledge can be either dangerous or useless to a person with unprepared mind. P. S a child should not be feed with this kind of info without proper context/fundamentals and capacity to balance it with kindness. Some Wisdom are like a chiefs knife, in the hands of a child it can cause harm to himself and others.

.

.

Munno left Bidam in the inn alone with the bag.

The boy went to the public restroom with the bag, which made the old lady concern. Saying that he should leave the bag behind because it may get wet.

Bidam only smiled at the lady and told her that the bag is important to him.

The lady concluded that there must be something valuable in his bag. Unknown to them, some bandits heard the conversation.

At the restroom, they ganged up the boy and stole his bag.

Bidam became furious because they took his bag. His property.

And so he convinced the old lady to tell him where the bandits hide, reasoning that he wants to trade his foods for his bag.

Thus the old woman told him.

Bidam went to the cave carrying the poisoned foods. In his mind, his goal was to retrieve his bag and punish them severely. Because punishment should be severe and fast. And reward should be slow and one at a time.

He would kill them with kindness. That's the best way to end their evil.

To end their misery once and for all. Protecting everyone from there bad deeds. They would never be able to steal and hurt anyone ever again if they're dead.

Anyway it's like shooting 3 birds with one stone. Planning should be cautious and must result to a greater good. Bidam thought to himself, pleased.

His teacher would be so proud of him for what he did. He used everything he taught him, he fooled the bandits and protected everyone.

Munno came rushing to the cave and saw death all around. He worriedly looked for Bidam.

"Bidam?!" he yelled in worry.

"Teacher" Bidam answered, happy to see his teacher again.

"What happened?" he asked the young boy. "Are you ok?"

"Yes teacher" Bidam answered happily. "I killed them."

Munno couldn't believe what he heard, looking at the corpses around and then stared at Mishil's son.

"I killed all of them, teacher. Hahahha" Bidam laughed joyfully.

'What have I done!?' Munno thought looking at the monster he created.

.

.

That night, Munno started being distant to Bidam. And even though they sleep in the same bed, he refused to hold his hand like he used to.

And no matter how much Bidam tried to reach for his 'father's' hand. Munno kept removing his hold.

Secretly, this caused a deep wound in his young heart and soul. For he doesn't know what he did wrong. And no matter how much he asked his teacher, he never told him. Or even spared him a glance of kindless like he used to.

His teacher doesn't care about him anymore...

And yet, he doesn't know why.

'A person must not kill people and laugh about it. Much less murder that many in such a young age. You are a monster. And must be caged to protect everyone from your evil' Munno thought, unable to explain to the boy that he is born with Mishil's blood. Merciless and blood thirsty abomination.

The only thing he can do now, is prevent Bidam from gaining more power and ability. For it was unfortunate that he had taught such a monster how to kill efficiently.

.

.

Years passed and Bidam lived as an idle errand boy, doing unimpressive jobs for his former teacher. Cleaning, farming, and the like. As though he is nothing but a poor abandoned / orphaned boy, with no direction in life.

And yet, despite Munno no longer teaches him how to fight, he secretly watched his trainings and practiced on his own. Making Munno extremely angry with him.

His life is filled with dissatisfaction and disappointment. As well as unbearable loneliness.

No one likes him for who he is.

And everyone fears his cruelty and greed. Hence those who dare mocked and humiliated him, all end up dying in his hand. Making Munno even more angry with him for his thirst for blood.

For Bidam never even once repented for his sins.

Never showed mercy and consideration for others.

Never helped anyone out of kindness.

And so no one had ever say thank you to him.

Though he actually didn't care at all, if they like him or not. The only one he cared about is Munno's Acknowledgement and approval.

And yet, it seems like he will never be able to earn it.

Gone was those days he showed him kindness. The days he missed the most.

His life is mundane and boring.

But everything changed when that night, he met a hwarang and a beautiful nangdo. And so he couldn't help but wink at him. Looking at his girly face.

Then he left to meet with his errand men. And like a big bully, he took what they offered him, and eat the boiled chicken even though Munno prohibited him from consuming animal meat.

Suddenly the two soldiers he saw in the cave went to him and asked for his chicken.

And of course he refused, because the food isn't enough for him and he doesn't like to share what is his.

But then he felt a little pity towards the beautiful nangdo, and thus he throw a piece of chicken towards him. Surprisingly the Hwarang beside the nangdo caught it agily, making him notice his skill.

Thus in return, he asked for the Hwarangs' head piece as a payment for the chicken. And then they made a deal that tomorrow, the Hwarang will pay him for the chicken and he would return the head piece.

Then he left, having an impression that his life is about to change because of them. A little excitement to his boring existence.

.

.

The next morning, while looking for wild ginger, Bidam noticed a couple of assassins looking around the bush. Curious, he went to them. But he ended up getting beaten by them, calling him a thief and taking the head piece with them.

At first, he decided to let their rude behavior slide because he doesn't want to bloody his clothes, else Munno will get angry at him again for killing people.

Then he saw his precious chicken on the ground. Wasted and soiled. That was the last straw to his patience.

Thus without mercy, he attacked them as they were about to hurt the beautiful nangdo. Saving him in the process of taking revenge for his chicken.

Though seeing the fear in his eyes, made him amused and decided to scare him a little bit. For a man should not be as weak as him. He would teach him a lesson about bravery.

And as he went near him, the beautiful nangdo raised his sword, making him smile. Then the Hwarang came and attacked him all of a sudden.

His strength caught him by surprise. For its the first time he had ever clashed sword with someone as heavy hitter as him.

But in the end, the beautiful nangdo intervened and so they ended the fight. The Hwarang asked him who he is.

And so he told them that he lived in a plague stricken village for a time being. Asking them to help him find wild ginger.

The Hwarang gave him his body armor for the head piece. And so they traded. And left happily.

.

.

But soon, Munno got angry at him because of the blood stains in his clothes.

Asking him if he killed again because he was unable to reign in his anger. But Bidam protested, arguing that he killed them to protect someone.

But Munno doesn't believe him. Because a blood thisty killer like him, doesn't have a heart to pity anyone. Much less save a life.

Then suddenly the Hwarang and the beautiful nangdo came. Thus he urged the nangdo to tell his teacher that he really did saved him.

And so the beautiful nangdo confirmed making him smile at him.

Munno acquiescence and asked Bidam to find wild ginger at all cost. And thus Bidam agreed.

.

.

Bidam went to the other village to find wild ginger, but the merchant refused to sell him any.

Then suddenly soldiers dragged him away. They asked him if he is from Yangtsi, and if he saw two soldiers in blue uniform.

Bidam denied, but then the man offered to give him wild ginger. And so he confessed and agreed to capture the beautiful nangdo who looked like a girl.

Later he imprisoned the Hwarang and tied the nangdo. Looking at his somber expression, Bidam felt pity.

"Don't be too angry with me" he said, not really knowing why he cared. "Anyway... You will be able to save 200 lives. No... It's 201, including your companion. Hehehe"

"Thank you" Deokman said sincerely.

"Thank you?" Bidam asked in disbelief. "I am about to sell you off and you're thanking me? Have you lost your mind due to fear?.. This people are funny"

He left not knowing what to think of the beautiful nangdo's gratitude. He doesn't understand. Nor should he care that he thanked him.

But then... No one had ever thanked him before..

No one.

And so he went to meet with the men he made a deal with. He informed them that he already captured them and they should fulfill their end of the bargain. They must give him the wild gingers.

Suddenly the beautiful nangdo's question appeared in his mind. Apparently, he wished to know who he had made a deal with.

"May I know who you are? " Bidam asked Seolwon." You don't look like a judge"

"How dare you?! He is the Minister of war" Bojong exclaimed.

.

.

Later he went to the prison to feed his captives. But the Hwarang refused to eat, and so he went to the beautiful nangdo.

"By the way, the one who wants to capture you... Is the minister of war" Bidam said casually. "Don't worry they won't kill you. They just want you to come with them"

And then he left the two alone. Not understanding why or what the situation really is.

Because truthfully... He doesn't care.

He just need the wild gingers at all cost... And one life for 200 lives is a no brainer choice.

.

.

That night he came to visit them again, and heard their conversation about some woman who the nangdo won't let her do as she pleased.

Hearing him say those farewell like words to the other man, made him curious. But not so much to investigate.

Then by the next morning he took the beautiful nangdo with him, while the Hwarang inside the cage look like a wild animal, calling unto his captive, who was so eager of being handed over.

Which was funny to him. Because why would a captive want to be captured?

And why did the companion was the one who fiercely does not want the captive to be captured.

But then he let them say their final words to each other. Pitying them for reasons he doesn't understand.

.

.

His captive walked ahead of him, while he held into the rope binding his hands together.

The journey was quite, and thus he could not help but feel like his doing something dumb. But the captive wasn't even trying to get away or even protest.

"After I hand you over to them, I will then free your companion" Bidam said to fell in the uncomfortable silence.

"That's good" he replied.

And as the captive seemingly the one guiding him, he noticed something in his hand. He tried to take it and see what it is.

"What's this?" Bidam asked in surprise, looking at the golden dagger. "You have a knife? ... Why did you not freed your self? "

The beautiful nangdo just smiled at him.

"Just make sure to get the wild ginger and save 200 lives" Deokman said looking at Bidam.

Making the latter confused. But then he handed him over to the soldiers and took away the crates of Herbal plants. Feeling a little bit bothered and remorseful.

.

.

"What?! You exchanged the life of that solduer for herbal plants?!" Munno exclaimed in anger, beating Bidam. "Do you know what kind of shame you committed?!"

"They will not kill him... In fact he thanked me" he reasoned.

"Thank you?!" Munno asked in disbelief. "Don't you know why he thanked you?! "

Bidam become stucked. And something finally clicked. The farewell. The knife. And 200 lives...

"How dare you put a numerical value to someone's life?!" Munno angrily yelled.

"Sorry teacher" Bidam suddenly said. "I have to go... Get angry with me later.."

And thus he run to the mountains to save the soldier's life. Thinking that he would have to shed blood again. But then he has to...

"Wait!" he called out to the soldiers.

"What is it young man?" Seolwon asked. "You already have the herbal plants"

"Yes... But I change my mind" Bidam declared. "I am going to pay back the herbals later. But I have to take him with me now"

Hearing such audacious request, Seolwon ordered his men to attack the young man.

"What are you doing here?" Deokman asked. "How about those 200 people?"

"What are you?... You have no right to put a numerical value to someone's life" Bidam said while protecting him, fighting off the attackers.

"What?!" Deokman asked in surprise.

Then Yushin came to rescue her as well.

Together, they were able to escape Seolwon's armies. But not until the general saw Bidam's fighting style. Wondering how the young man learned Munno's fighting techniques.

.

.

Bidam laughed in excitement. Never in his life had he experienced such exhilaration. His heart kept beating like crazy inside his chest.

"Wow!" he exclaimed in happiness. "We just fought together like a great team! Amazing! We frightened them. Were so cool!"

While Bidam rejoiced, Yushin applied CPR on Deokman to revive her. Then that's when Bidam noticed that the beautiful nangdo is actually a girl.

He went in front of them to contront the girl.

"Hey! You tried to kill yourself didn't you?" he asked, making Yushin look at Deokman in disbelief. "You know... Suicide is bad"

Later, Bidam convinced the pair to remain in the cave for the time being and layer he would go down to the town to ask his teacher to provide them a boat to cross the lake.

But in return, they need to take him along their journey. Because he like adventure.

Yushin finally agreed.

Bidam went outside to keep watch of their enemies. Then he saw Deokman running away, which made him curious.

Suddenly Yushin also exited the cave and followed after Deokman. Then he heard that there is no other way to escape.

Bidam became curious about what they want to escape, but then he just shrugged it off. Later he saw Yushin running back to the cave, while Deokman followed after him.

He was confused of their wierd behavior, and so he went after them.

And their he heard Yushin cheesy line. Thus he was unable to hold unto his laughter. Laughing at Yushin's old fashion love confession, outside the cave.

"Yuck" Bidam uttered in childish repulsion. "I won't let anyone touch you. Hahaha" Not knowing that one day, he would be a lot cheesier than Yushin. That he would feel a love so great for Deokman, that can make him give up everything, and fight everyone - including his mother.

.

.

Later, through Yushin's instructions he found and took the soldiers wearing yellow and blue uniforms with him to the cave, along with a woman.

And that's when he found out that Deokman is actually a princess.

Bidam helped them along the way. But something bad happened.

Deokman's sister got hit by a poisoned arrow, though he was able to injure the assassin as well.

The princess was dying, and so he and Deokman went to the town to find medicine. He helped her stole the medicine and get away with her in a horse he also stole from the unknowing bystander.

They rushed to the cave and saw a solemn Alcheon.

Bidam watched as Deokman cried and cried in front of her sister's corpse. And felt pity for her.

Never had he met anyone as pitiful as her. And so he wanted to help her in anyway he can.

Alcheon brought the princess's body back to the capital, while Deokman remain in the cave unmoving for many days. Then he noticed that she was shaking.

"Yushin" Bidam called. "Deokman is shaking"

Seeing this, Yushin immediately removed his robe and put it on Deokman, while Bidam also removed his robe to put extra layer of clothes on her.

Deokman trembled with high fever and was unconscious for a few days.

And when she woke up, she had decided not to leave Shilla.

Because she will return to the palace and take revenge by becoming the most powerful person in the entire kingdom.

To become the King.

Hearing her said that, made him laugh. "You and Yushin are such a comedian"

Deokman remain silent, looking at his face fiercely.

"If you are interested to join, come to the meeting place in Seorobol" she said.

"Seriously?!" he asked in disbelief, watching Deokman march away to the lair of the ones who wished to kill her.

"Only idiots would dream of doing that" he said to himself.

"But I am also an idiot" he concluded to himself before following after her.

.

.

Finally, he arrived at the meeting place. Wanting adventure, but trying to make sure if Deokman is worthy of being served.

In the end, she was able to convince him. And so he and Alcheon begun their exciting adventure of locating the Gaya rebels hideout, to retrive Wulchon.

He has no idea what is really going on, but he was excited of doing such dangerous mission like a real secret operative. His dream job.

As they were brain storming about the whereabouts of the rebels, Deokman mentioned about how this certain Mishil would think in their place. And so he suggested that, if he is Mishil, he would line up the gayans and behead them one by one until they reveal the location of rebels.

Alcheon got angry with him, but Deokman acknowledged his insight. Making him feel useful. For no one had ever praised his devilish ideas before.

No one.

.

.

Together, the three of them infiltrated the hideout, but then they were surrounded. He was ready to kill again to protect Deokman but Yushin arrived.

Then everyone bowed down to Deokman, making her, the leader of the Gaya rebel army because of Yushin's alliance.

Never had he felt such excitement before. And so he himself want to see through Deokman's plan. For she's becoming someone worthy of being served.

Bidam was in awe of both Deokman and Yushin. They are something else. Very interesting. Unlike anyone he had ever met. They are strong and determined. Even a little powerful.

.

.

Later Bidam agreed to face Mishil, though he knew nothing of her except some rumors that paint her in a very terrifying way.

Deokman instructed him not to underestimate Mishil. And told him to hide his emotions. To not let her know that the eclipse wont happen. And that he should strive to escape on his own because she won't be able to guarantee his safety if he fails to convince Mishil.

And so he agreed. Because his an idot and be knows it. There is just something so exciting about fooling an authoritative figure, especially a very powerful one. Very challenging. As it makes his heart beat like crazy, being in a very dangerous situation.

.

.

And thus with his face painted to look like rotting flesh, he performed sacrifice in front of the foundation well of Shilla where Mishil also performed her tricks.

By using Deokman's magnifying glass, he was able to set fire to the incense, making the people amaze and believe that he is a prophet. They prayed alongside him in ignorance.

Then Bojong's army arrived to arrest him. And Bidam dignifiedly followed after them.

And there he saw Mishil. Causing his heart to beat in a way that made him feel like he knew her.

Mishil looked at the false prophet for the first time, feeling like someone pinched her heart. But she just shrugged it away.

The investigation begun, suddenly the king arrived to watch the inquisition.

Mishil asked him to prove that he is a prophet by stating the date of his death.

Bidam was on the tight spot, knowing that whatever answer he gives would condemned him. And so looking around, he saw the king.

"I don't want to say this, but you are forcing me to" he started to say, making Mishil look at him. "I will die, 3 days before the king of this heavenly kingdom dies"

His answer caused everyone to fell in shock, including Mishil.

Bidam smiled in triumph.

While Mishil smiled at him as well, recognizing defeat.

.

.

"He is very cunning and insolent. Incredibly smart and extremely shrewd " Mishil said, praising the young man in front of Seolwon, after they left the prison building.

Seolwon remain silent.

"If he answered that he would die 3 days before Mishil dies, I would have immediately killed him" Mishil said smiling. "I am not afraid of such things. But he insolently threatened the king in front of everyone. Very cunning, indeed "

.

.

Bidam felt his heart slow down from suspense. Inside the prison, he contemplated his meeting with Mishil.

And right then, he felt in awe of her. He sees in her a very challenging opponent. And defeating her would be a sweet - sweet triumph.

The next day, Mishil and her clan interviewd him personally. There he admit that everything was just a trick and that he used the will of the heavens. That he is not afraid of it. Making Mishil remember what he said to Deokman back then.

"What we need is a little bit of luck" Bidam said, smiling like how Mishil smile.

"Hwarang Yushin... And Deokman" Mishil commented.

"I think you forgot something to include" Bidam said, as he removed his face paint. "its unfair to fight you when you couldn't see my real face"

Mishil smiled as he looked at the young man. The other were shocked at what he did.

"Now let's start the negotiation" Bidam declared. "But before that... Can you please kick out the dogs around?"

Bojong protested, but Mishil immediately sent everyone out except Misaeng.

They spoke about the solar eclipse, and how Bidam faked the tablet just like what Mishil did.

"You want me to believe you?" she asked.

"hahaha. Believe whatever you want or don't believe. It's your choice"

Mishil just smiled, calculating the young man's emotions.

"Do you really have time to waste chatting with me? " he asked.

"What do you mean?" Mishil asked offended.

"I am sure the people outside are in chaos, waiting for you to pacify them" Bidam said smiling. "What do you think? Is the card I am holding an ace or a bluff?"

.

.

"I am not interested in knowing what is plum de Sadaham anymore. I just want to help you Mishil" Seolwon said, comforting his lover.

"It's like playing a card. I don't know if what they have is an ace or a bluff. The young man is so unpredictable. It's like his always looking at me" Mishil admitted. "But I can't look at him for long"

"You are in danger of losing in that game, Mishil" Seolwon concluded.

"Yes" Mishil admitted.

"And Deokman will lose nothing if she win or lose the bit"he added. "Don't overthink Lady Mishil, let your enemy enter your teritory and reveal their weakness. Trust your ability to read people's emotion"

.

.

Bidam waited inside his prison patiently, when suddenly he heard a rumor that Mishil announced that there will be no solar eclipse that would happen.

Bidam cursed in defeat.

That's why by the next morning, he planned to escape.

He easily defeated the Hwarangs and escaped, but then he fell inside Mishil's trap.

He couldn't help but laugh when he saw Mishil. "You're so great! You've defeated me" he admitted.

"I was not sure of my success yet, but now that you escaped. I am certain, there will be no solar eclipse" Mishil announced. "Because if there was, you would have patiently waited inside your prison"

Bidam's smile evaporated. Realizing that it was him who endangered the plan.

.

.

'Is this how my life is going to end?' Bidam thought. 'just like that?'

Inside his cell, Bidam wildly rolled around in despair.

Later, they dragged him out to burn him in front of the angry crowd. And no matter how he protest, he couldn't escape them.

And just when he was about to be burned, the sky darkens as the moon embraces the sun. Seeing it happen, he realized that Deokman lied to him.

Bidam laughed in awe. Never once thought that Deokman can fool him. Right then he admitted.

"I really like her" Bidam said before upping his drama, reciting the prophecy about twin birth. This made Mishil and the people look at him.

Bidam smiled at Mishil.

And when the sky lit up again, Deokman stepped out of the light. The people prostrated to her. Saying that she's the new sacred Highpriest and Princess of Shilla.

Bidam cheerfully celebrated with the people. Watching Deokman reunited with her parents, as everyone accepts her.

"She's so smart... I like her" Bidam admitted to himself.

.

.

Even then, Bidam couldn't contain his happiness. Praising the new princess for her intelligence. Commenting about how beautiful she is. And how her clothes made her even more beautiful.

Causing Alcheon to severely chastise him. He just smiled at the princess. Making Deokman smile at him.

Later he met with Munno, and told him that the nangdo who came in their village was actually one of the twin. And now she is an official princess of Shilla. And plans to become the king.

Then Munno asked him if he still pity the princess, that's why he is serving her.

And Bidam said that he no longer pity her, and he is serving the princess because she is her.

Thus Munno asked him, if he really believes that the princess can defeat Mishil.

.

.

That night he went to their meeting place and pledge his loyalty and service to the princess. Because he is impressed with her achievements and he doesn't want to be her enemy.

And he wants to stay by her side always.

He was so happy to serve Princess Deokman and excited to enter a new life in the palace. He yelled joyfully in the middle of the night, but then someone came and attack him all of a suden.

His opponent is very skilled, but he was able to fend him off. And then suddenly he disappeared. Bidam just shrugged off the weird event.

On the other side of the street, Seolwon asked Chilsuk if Bidam's fighting style is similar to Munno. And the latter confirmed.

.

.

And during the competition, Bidam became curious of who his parents were, and yet he never dared to ask. Because truthfully, Munno is enough for him as his father, eventhough he no longer care for him.

But when he heard the princess prove her worth as a future King to Munno by laying her plans to unite the three kingdoms, an idea planted in his mind. Remembering that Munno and him traveled to Baekji and Gogoryeo to prepare for the unification.

.

.

Not long, Bidam learned that Munno once intended to marry him to Princess Deokman. But then Sowa refused to allow Bidam to marry Deokman, because he is Mishil's son.

And then because of what happened in his youth, until now Munno never forget about his deeds. He became distant to him.

Bidam just made a face and shrugged the anxiety. Preferring to think of something else, other than bad memories.

"Marriage" he uttered to himself, contemplating the fact that he could have married Deokman if things didn't happen as it is now.

But then... If he can marry Princess Deokman... Then does it mean that he has a right to the throne of Shilla?

Bidam thought to himself.

Thus he went to the temple of Dogeza, and found a box that contains the books Munno compiled for him. And saw 2 letters. One was labeled as Hyeongjong's destiny and the other one was Inmyeong's destiny.

He doesn't know who this Inmyeong but surprisingly, Hyeongjong's birth date match with his.

And that's when something hit him.

.

.

The next morning, Bidam went to pick flowers for princess Deokman. He planned to ask her about her birthday, and if she can allow him to enter the royal library.

He found her looking at Yushin train, and it caused a small discomfort in his heart. But he hid it with his humor.

Because since that night he found out that Deokman could have been his wife, something fierce started to grow in his heart. Ownership.

And he is not someone who likes to share what is his.

But then, Princess Deokman is not his. And he is nothing but an uneducated errand boy, who knows nothing about politics and royalty.

And though he had since noticed Deokman's beauty, he never even imagined that he can have her. But now... If he has a right to the throne, then he has a chance to have her all to himself.

Luckily, she allowed him and even accompanied him to the library. He smiled to himself, liking the way Deokman smile at him cheerfully.

Then when he was left alone in the library, he searched through King Jinji's records and found his birth name. He is King Jinji and Seju Mishil's son, Prince Hyeongjong.

Exiting the library, he met General Seolwon. Thus he bowed in respect, and the left the building. Unknown to him, Seolwon found the book he had searched and confirmed that Bidam is indeed Mishil's son.

Outside of the building, Bidam met Mishil... His mother who abandoned him.

"Didn't you say that your Munno's student?" she asked.

"Yes" he answered smiling.

"It seems like he taught you well" she commented. "Because you end up smart and brave"

"But I am nothing compared to you" he answered.

"Compared to me?" she asked amused.

"Why? Is it illegal?" Bidam asked. "My teacher was unhappy teaching me... He said that I am greedy and cruel"

Mishil just stared at Bidam, suspecting something.

"He said that I am merciless and that's why it is easy for me to kill people." he said. "I heard... You were also like that"

Mishil remain silent.

"Does that mean... You just accept that you are like that?" Mishil asked afterwards. "That you have no mercy to people? And it's easy for you to kill? "

"I don't know if he's right" Bidam said. "But I feel remorse after killing... It's just I couldn't help but smile... And that's why he thinks that I am evil"

Silence reign between them.

"Next time, don't smile... Just lift the otherside of your lip upward a little bit" Mishil suggested. "you would look stronger"

"Like this, Lady Mishil?" Bidam asked copying Mishil's trademark smile.

And right then they both realize, that they were related.

That Bidam is indeed her son.

.

.

The moment Bidam reached home, Munno got angry with him because of what he did in the temple.

Bidam argued with him and told him that he wants to join the Hwarang competition.

But Munno warned him that if he did, he would abandon Bidam.

Bidam run away from the house. Deeply hurt.

Then he went to the temple where Deokman is praying, promising her that he would make sure Yushin would become the new head of the Hwarangs.

At the competition he did his best to defeat his opponent and let Yushin win, but he got eliminated for disrespecting the essence of the competition.

Munno told him to pack his things because they were going to leave Seorobol. But Bidam didn't comply and walked away.

Then he met Mishil on the hallway.

"I had thought that your smart and skilled. But it is all arrogance" she teased. "Do you know what you did in the competition?... You just showed off. You believe that no one can defeat you. And that you can fool Munno and Chilsuk"

"Should I have just bow down like others?" he retorted.

"What I see... Is a selfish boy. Like a young man who wish to show to his beloved that he would do everything to give her what she wants... Haha it doesn't suit you" Mishil smiled, amused. "Or like a child who craves attention of his parent"

Bidam stared at his mother, unable to deny the truth.

.

.

Afterwards, he visited Yushin but everyone was angry with him, even the princess. And he felt hurt looking at the one he love only has eyes for Yushin.

Later he found out that Munno intended to give the books that was his, to Yushin.

And he become envious and full of hate.

He confronted Munno and fought his teacher for the books. But then Munno got shot with a poisoned needle by an assassin. His father died in his arms.

Asking Bidam to help Princess Deokman and Yushin. And confessing that finally he saw the goodness in him, and that he is very proud of Bidam. Asking for forgiveness for his shortcomings and thanking him for his kindness.

Bidam cried out of sorrow.

Soon he went and haunt down Yumjong. He was about to kill the rat, but he offered him a deal, he couldn't resist. And so he let him live under his thumb.

And that is when he also met Chunchu. The brat who turned his teacher's book into a dice. In turn he taught the boy some discipline he would never forget. He beat Chunchu with the scabbard of his sword.

Then he returned to the capital as an official Hwarang as per Munno's letter. He served the princess and supported her fight against Mishil.

But then, when Chunchu announced his wish to become the heir, Mishil started acting weird, cusing Deokman great concern. And so he decided to meet his mother and find out.

And thus he ended up joining her mountain climbing get away. They talked about Munno's younger days, and realized that his teacher was actually a cry baby and lazy as a student.

And there he also learned that Mishil considers her old dream as useless.

"Why did you chose to serve Deokman?" Mishil asked "Your talents would be wasted"

"Because I am a duckling" Bidam answered with a smile.

"A duckling?" she asked.

"Ducklings follow the first person they saw" he reasoned.

"Was Deokman the first person you saw when you first came into this world?" she asked.

Bidam remain silent contemplating.

"You love her" Mishil stated.

"Is it too obvious?" he asked smiling.

"but it's disappointing" she commented. "Only because of love, a man serves under a woman?... I feel tempted to destroy such fragile delusion"

"What if it isn't only about love?" he asked. "Munno dedicated his life to untie the 3 kingdoms. And I wish to be part of such dream. To make my name remembered for ages. To become the king of history. A man who has great ambition, is a pride of any woman"

.

.

But then he found out that Mishil wants to become the king. He warned the princess that Mishil will surely execute a rebellion but no one listened to him.

And now they fell into Mishil's trap while Yumjong tied him down.

Thankfully, he was able to rescue Deokman. But then she returned to the palace and willingly surrendered, driving him mad at Yushin for letting Deokman endanger herself for Shilla.

In the end, they were able to chase Mishil out of the palace. And hide in the fortress of Deia.

The princess tasked him to retrieve the letter, that forced him to choose between his mother and the one he love.

.

.

And so... He chose to not give the letter to Deokman after meeting with Mishil.

He just can't betray his mother like that.

.

.

'Bidam... Why did you lie to me?' the princess thought.


Xxxx

Deokman taught her son ethics and fundamentals of communication, even in such a young age. Focusing her time in teaching Yuan the basic of human society. And kindness.

Teaching him about different languages and cultures. Bringing him along with her to the market place and introducing her boy to their various businesses.

Pretending that everything is alright.

It's been over 3 years, and her relationship with Bidam begun to deteriorate due to what Chunchu did to Mishil's legacy. Apparently, the prince erased Mishil's contribution and Bidam's name in the annals of history.

And since they heard the news, she barely has harmonious conversation with Bidam. Feeling the resentment her husband has that he wouldn't tell her.

She had thought that they had overcome much more difficult trials before, but now... She doesn't know.

Even the Munmyong guild is about to get divided between her people and Bidam's.

And if this isn't solved immediately, their family would be forever strained.

Being too preoccupied in her thoughts, Deokman didn't notice that someone has been following her and her boy in the markets. And when she turned to the next alley, someone grabbed her.

Deokman held unto her boy, securely. Ready to fight anyone with only the golden dagger in her hand.

Then her business rival appeared, leering at her. But before they could attack her and her son, Bidam arrived and killed the assassins.

"Deokman" Bidam called at his wife, worriedly.

"Bidam" Deokman called her husband in relief.

"Don't ever leave my side" he instructed as he backed off slowly. "our members is on the way, but your guards were all been killed. Why did you come here with our son, accompanied by only a dozen?"

Deokman felt like ignoring her husband's words. But for the sake of Yuan, she apologized and bit her angry retort to herself.

"I am sorry too" Bidam softly said, making Deokman look at him. "I should have told you what I really felt" he reasoned.

"What do you think would happen to me if something bad happened to you and our son?" he asked, pained.

"Bidam" Deokman whispered.

"Don't ever leave me like that... Deokman" Bidam said before fighting off the attackers.

Finally their reinforcement came. Deokman put their son to sleep and then went to her husband.

Bidam is seating on the wooden floor drinking his tea.

Deokman sat beside him and poured her own cup, but instead of her drinking it, Bidam took her cup and drank from it. Making her stare at his childish tantrums.

Bidam tried to ignore Deokman's fierce look, wanting to ruffle her feathers a little bit longer.

"Bidam" Deokman started to say, but before she could say another word, Bidam kissed her passionately.

"I miss you, Deokman" he confessed, trapping her on the floor with his robe parting due to its loosened tie.

Deokman's heart began to beat wildly in her chest. Wondering why is that Bidam could still make her heart flutter after all these years.

"Bidam" she whispered softly. "I am sorry for what happened... It's unfortunate, but I also agree that the history should be changed. We can't let the next generation to carry the hatred and pain of the past. We must not let such cycle to exist"

Bidam remain silent, instead he started kissing his wife. Deokman began to reciprocate her husband's kisses.

"I understand " Bidam said just before removing her clothes.

Deokman took the initiative to remove his robe as well. Silently they tried to enjoy each other's warmth.

"I would like to have another child with you, Deokman" Bidam said as he hugged her naked body.

"I also like that" Deokman agreed.

To be continued...