Bidam x Deokman
Disclaimer : I do not own anything from this story. Credits to the owners of Queen Seon Deok series.
A/n: It's been 12 years since I last watched this series, but still... I can't accept that they died like Romeo and Juliet... So once and for all, I would satisfy my aching heart. T_T... ❤️
Warning : Spoiler up a head! [edited]
"The Moon embracing The Sun"
Chapter 1: The abandoned souls
"My King, won't you hold our son in your arms?" Lady Mishil asked hopefully.
"Seju, I can't " King Jinji replied, unable to look at his consort in the eye. "No matter what you do, you won't be the Queen"
"Why?" Seju asked innocently, hiding the pain the King's words cause in her heart as she held their son. "You promised"
"I can't make you the Queen. My mother forbid me to" The King reasoned, a bit frightened of what the Kingdom's keeper would do to him if he continue to refuse the Seju of her wish. Knowing what kind of political power and military might Mishil possess as well as divine intervention.
"Have you forgotten what I did for you? I hid the late King's royal decree in order to make you the next King. How could you do this to me?" Seju asked with a hint of warning in her words.
Suddenly the Royal assistant approached the King.
"I will be there immediately" King Jinji replied hastily at the servant, trying to avoid confronting Seju as much as possible.
"Seju, please let's not talk about the decree ever again" the King said before hurriedly walking away.
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Mishil was left standing in front of the empty throne. Looking at her son, who is now useless to her.
"You have no use for me now" Mishil said as she deposited the baby on the throne room.
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"Munno, please take care of my son" King Jinji asked the headmaster of the Hwarang.
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A few weeks later, King Jinji was stripped off of his throne and title. And now, his cousin became the new King of Shilla. But despite Seju's efforts, she still failed to become the Queen, when the King's royal consort returned in the palace safely while pregnant.
It was Munno who saved Lady Maya after seeing the sign of prophecy.
'No one under the sky can contend with Mishil's power, except the child who will be born under the 8th star of the King' followed by the Phoenix.
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That night, Lady Maya gave birth to a twin. And the night sky twinkled with a new star who split the Dipper constellation's 7th star into two.
The King was horrified to discover that the Queen gave birth to a twin. Especially since it fulfills the curse on the Royal family from its early foundation.
'Once the King have a twin, the royal blood will be broken'
The Queen hugged her daughters tightly, while the King took the golden knife, that belongs to his grandfather- King Jinyeong. It was the knife who saved the late King from a fierce tiger who bit his hand. And it was also the knife who saved the Queen from death.
"My Queen, we need to send her away. If we do not, they would depose and kill all of you when they find out" the King begged at his beloved wife, as he put the golden knife on the baby like a necklace.
"No... Please. My King... No" The Queen cried as the King took the youngest daughter and send her away along with Sowa, the King's trusted maid.
Chapter 2: Kindred Soul
Munno saved Sowa and the baby, and took them away from Seorebol. As they were hunted by the assistant headmaster of the Hwarang, Chulsok.
Finally they were able to escape the soldiers who were hunting them.
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At a house somewhere in the forest of Shilla.
The baby girl was happily playing with a young boy, who kept smiling while petting the baby.
"Isn't she beautiful? Do you like her, Bidam?" Munno asked the young boy. "In the future, she will become your wife and Queen"
The young boy looked up at him with a big smile in his face as he laughed joyously.
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"I can't allow you to do that" Sowa protested against Munno's plan. "You already knew whose son he is. I won't allow you to marry her to Bidam. The King tasked me to take the princess away from Shilla and to let her live a normal life"
"Sowa" Munno started to say. "There is a divine reason why the late King and Mishil's son is in my care, and now the child of the 8th star is also in my hand. They are destined to lead the Kingdom, and fulfill the dream of the Kings of Shilla"
Sowa remained silent, but deep inside, she plans to escape along with the princess.
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That night, Sowa took the princess and runaway to the desert.
Deokman grew up alongside the traders who visited their post along the silk road, where Romans, Indians, Chinese, and other people met to do business.
The princess became proficient in many language including latin, due to her innate curiosity and love of books.
She is a very loving, smart and resourceful girl.
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Bidam was taken by Munno to various lands, including the Kingdoms of the Hans: Gogoryeo and Baekji. The headmaster compiled geographical maps and notes to aid Bidam to become a powerful King of Shilla that will unite the three Han.
Bidam was so happy that his 'father' prepared so much for him.
"Bidam, don't let anyone see what's inside this bag" Munno asked the young boy.
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That night, Munno entered the cave to rescue Bidam who was taken by the bandits.
And since then, he was never been able to see the boy as the person he hoped to be the champion of the Kingdom. All he sees is a monster.
"I killed all of them. I poisoned their food. Serves them right for taking what's mine. Hahahahha" the boy laughed like a psychopath.
Chapter 3 : Lost loved ones.
Munno refused to care for Bidam like he used to. He even refrain from speaking to the boy. He also rarely train him nor acknowledge him as his student.
This caused a scar in Bidam's heart.
But whenever Munno sees Bidam's thirst for blood and willingness to slaughter people, he could not help but get repulsed. For this is not the kind of person he hoped to put in the throne of Shilla.
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Chilsuk finally found Sowa and Deokman. He tried to kill the girl but Sowa sacrificed her life to prevent the princess from getting stuck in the quicksand.
And just when Chilsuk was about to capture the girl, suddenly the sandstorm engulfed them.
Everything was buried in the sand, and only Deokman survived. The girl did her best to find her mother, but the only thing she found was the golden knife that she always wear as a necklace. She cried and cried until she no longer could.
Luckily her trader friends came and took her back to the trading post.
"Come with me to Roma" her friend asked.
"Thank you, but I have to go to Gyerim. I have to find Munno and tell him that mother died" the girl said as bravely as she could, knowing that her mother refused to send her to Gyerim no matter what.
And yet she wants to know. Who she is? Who is her father?
Is Munno her father?
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[dream]
Deokman is looking around in the market of Gyerim when a woman wearing white silk clothing came to hug her so tightly.
She looked up at the woman in wonder.
"Why are you crying?" the girl asked.
The woman didn't reply, and continue walking away. But when young Deokman turned away, the woman shed a tear.
'From here on out, life would be really difficult. Painful and full of hardship. But you have to face it all on your own'
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Princess Cheonmyong's husband, The crown prince died in the battle, thus she hid her pregnancy in the temple to protect her child from Mishil and to find a way to look for Munno.
Since she was the prophesized King's star child, she has finally decided to fight Seju once and for all.
On her way to the temple, a stow away tried to ride in the boat she was occupying with her soldiers. But no matter what they do, the boy won't let go.
And that's when the bandits came. All her soldiers were defeated, thus without other option, she paid the boy to act as her bodyguard. But the boy refused to serve a pompous rich girl like her.
And yet, in the end the boy tried to protect her without asking for anything.
After all trials and tribulations, the two became close friends when they discovered that they have the same birthmark under their ear. Though, the princess hid the fact that, the king, her father also has the same birthmark as them.
Finally when they reached the temple, they were hunted by the assassins. The boy almost fell on the waterfall, but the princess who never introduced herself as a royalty, tried to save him at all cost.
Seeing the girl's bloody hands, the boy decided to let go and jump on the water to protect her.
Seeing this, the princess also jumped on the water trying to save the boy.
They got separated. The princess was found by a young Hwarang named Yushin, son of the former princess of Shilla- sister to the current King- and the former leader of the Gaya- a nation that was conquered by Shilla.
And Deokman, who was pretending as a boy found the assassin who tried to kill them.
The boy was Mishil's other son with the Minister of War.
Because of Deokman's quick thinking and eloquence, she and her new found companions were saved from Mishil's wrath. After they unknowingly foiled her plans.
Chapter 4: Hwarang Days
Deokman became a Hwarang in training by the will of the princess, under Yushin's unit.
She trained to become a soldier in order to discover who she really is. Knowing now that Mishil has something to do with her mother's death and Munno's location.
That night, she secretly took a bath to hide her gender from everyone. And just when she exited from her bathroom, she saw Yushin running away. But when she tried to call him, the commander refused to look at her in the eye.
Not long, they were sent to fight in the war. Their group became the bait, to help the other team escape. Because of Deokman's tenacity and smart thinking, Alcheon and her team survived the attack.
Yushin rushed towards the bait team to retrieve his group. Seeing his members incapacitated made him angry, but not seeing Deokman among the surviving unit made his heart clutch in fear.
"Deokman!" he shouted over and over again, as he checked each corpse in the battlefield.
And just when an enemy soldier who pretended to have died was about to strike Yushin, Deokman killed the man.
Yushin immediately carried her to safety.
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They won the war, and the palace celebrated.
The princess visited Deokman in their secret meeting place in the Palace garden, pretending as a monk for she never revealed her identity. They maintained close friendship over the years.
"I think, Yushin likes me" Deokman commented after awhile.
The princess looked at the boy awkwardly. "Why would he? You are a man"
"Ah" Deokman was rendered speechless before smiling sheepishly.
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Not long after, the princess found out that Deokman is her younger twin sister, after confirming with Yushin that Deokman is indeed a female.
The King's loyal minister decided to hunt down Deokman and kill her, before anyone found out about her identity.
While Mishil strived to capture her to destroy the Royal family.
Deokman became heartbroken when she learned that her very existence is a curse. That even her real parents want her dead.
Yushin saved her and took her outside of Seorebol.
And that is when they meet a cave man who winked at Deokman even though she is dressed as a man.
'what a weird guy' she thought.
Chapter 5: Love is in the air
The man loaned them some chicken in return for Yushin's Hwarang headpiece.
And when Yushin left to meet with his father, who was actually planning to kill Deokman, Bidam came to the rescue and fought all the soldiers like maniac, since it was them who beat him to a pulp awhile ago, mistaking him for a thief.
Deokman fell on the ground in fear, after seeing the man violently attack the assassins who came to kill her.
Seeing Bidam point his blade on Deokman, Yushin came rushing in. The two swordsman clashed fiercely up until Deokman intervened.
In the end, they both followed Bidam towards the town, that is plagued by disease, to meet with his master. And yet, they were unaware that the man is actually Munno, the one Deokman has been looking for.
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Bidam made a deal with a soldier who offered to give him medicine for all the sick people in the town.
He imprisoned Yushin, and tied Deokman unto the tree. Unbeknownst to him, she has a golden knife that can be use to cut the rope but she didn't.
She's tired of running away.
If everyone would be safe if she's gone. Then so be it.
"Who did you make a deal with, to capture me?" Deokman asked Bidam.
"Oops. I didn't asked him that" he answered playfully.
Bidam looked at the warrior, who is too beautiful to be a man, and contemplated. "Don't worry, I will try to ask him" he said.
"Anyway, you will save 200 people in the process. No... 201 people, including your companion" he said laughing as he walk away.
Deokman could only stare at the retreating figure of the man. Passive.
All the while, Yushin is going crazy inside the cell trying to convince Deokman from giving up and warning Bidam from his devilish ideas.
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"He is the Minister of War" Bidam said before taking Deokman away towards the meeting place.
"Thank you" Deokman said sincerly.
Hearing this, Yushin went numb.
"Thank you?!" Bidam asked sarcastically. " Have you lost your mind due to extreme fear?" he asked laughing.
"I have sold you out, but you still thank me? You must have lost a few loose screws in your head. Hahaha... I should get out of here, before I get infected... Hahahaha" he said laughing sarcastically.
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Moments later, Bidam arrived to take Deokman to the trading place.
Yushin went mad as he tried his best to break his prison.
"Deokman!" he shouted franticly, as the two walk away. "Deokman!"
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"After the trade, I will let your companion go" he said to fill in the silence.
"That's good" Deokman answered as she walked ahead with her hands tied behind her.
Bidam noticed the golden knife on Deokman's hand. "What is this?... You have a knife."
"Why didn't you escape? You could have easily cut the rope" he asked curiously.
"Didn't you say that they will give you the medicine? Make sure that it can save 200 lives" Deokman answered.
"What are you?" Bidam asked, amazed.
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"How dare you measure someone's life based on a perceived value? " Munno questioned Bidam, as he beat him with his cane.
"Actually she even thanked me" Bidam answered, amused.
"Thank you?" Munno asked incredulously.
Bidam finally remembered about the knife, and realized.
'the idiot is going to kill himself' he thought.
"Master, I have to go" Bidam said before rushing to save the young warrior.
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Bidam came to save Deokman and fought the Hwarangs and the Minister of War. Not long, Yushin came to protect her.
Together they jumped from the waterfall. Thus, they successfully escaped their pursuers.
Bidam couldn't help his excitement as he laughed and laughed, like a stupid kid.
All the while, Yushin tried to revive Deokman's breathing by blowing air into her mouth and make her throw up the water she has swallowed.
Bidam noticed the shape of Deokman's body that is now soaked by the water and realized that the young warrior is in fact a girl.
"Look away" Yushin admonished Bidam, angrily.
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"Let's run away from Shilla. As long as we are outside of the borders, no one will follow us there" Yushin declared as he run after Deokman.
"Why? Why are you taking this that far? You're gonna leave your family and Shilla for me? Why?" She asked angrily." By chance, do you love me?"
Yushin became speechless.
"Ok. That doesn't make sense. If not that, then why? Why do you even care that much? " she asked before turning away, tired of putting the people she cared in trouble to protect her.
Yushin held unto her arm. "I never said I didn't"
Deokman became speechless.
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Bidam watched as Yushin runaway to the cave, while Deokman run after him.
'What are they doing?' he thought amused. Due to curiosity, he followed them inside the cave.
"Maybe you're mistaking pity for love. Yes. That was it. Because I am pitiful. You're feelings is just pity. It's not love" Deokman reasoned.
'What is this?' Bidam thought cringing internally at their cheeziness.
"It's true. I really love you. And I will not leave this place without you. I will not let anyone hurt you, even yourself, Deokman" Yushin confessed.
Bidam exited the cave, unable to listen any longer to their stupid dialogue.
"Yuck! So old fashion..." Bidam cringed. "I will not let anyone hurt you... Hahahaha" he said impersonating Yushin.
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Chapter 6: I want to help her
Princess Cheonmyong came along with Alcheon to send Deokman away. And to inform Yushin that they were going to be engaged to each other.
But before the princess could mention about the planned wedding, Yushin announced his intention to leave Shilla with Deokman. Although a bit heartbroken, the princess congratulated her younger sister and urge her to live as a normal and happy woman.
The princess dressed up her sister with the same clothing their mother, the Queen, made for them. The two sister looked the same as they comb each other's hair.
Yushin was stunned to see Deokman in a woman's clothing for the very first time.
While Bidam could only admire the bond between the sisters. And also notice Deokman's feminine beauty.
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Then something bad happen, the assassin has mistakenly shot the princess instead of Deokman. And the princess died.
From then on, Deokman vowed to take revenge. To claim the throne, and become the King. In order to punish all of the people who messed her life and killed her beloved Mother and sister.
She refused to leave Shilla and even denied Yushin's feelings. Because from now on, she will never runaway. Thus giving up her chance to live a normal life as a happy woman.
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At first, Bidam laughed at Deokman's goal. Calling her crazy for even considering it.
With a renewed convection, Deokman returned to Seorebol and offered Alcheon to serve under her, instead of committing an honorable suicide in the name of the late Princess who he had failed to protect.
Then Bidam came to the meeting place.
"So have you decided to serve me?" she asked.
"It depends. Whether you are worth it" he answered a bit childishly.
"You are insolent! I may look like this, but still, I am a Princess of Shilla. Bow down to me" she demanded.
"To you? Is that necessary?" he asked rhetorically.
"So you are not afraid?" she asked.
"Fear. I don't know what is fear" he answered.
" I see. From here on out, do not talk to me formally without my order" she commanded.
"Well... That's not a very hard thing to do" he answered.
But in the end, he was amazed. How could a weak, powerless, hunted, and a girl even dream of becoming a King?
Surprisingly, he want to stick around and observe how she would attain her goal. Anticipating great adventures up ahead.
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Together with Bidam, they planned to infiltrate the Gaya's rebel army to retrieve Wulchon, Mishil's kidnapped astronomer.
And just when they were surrounded by the enemy, Yushin arrived declaring his service to princess Deokman, the future King of Shilla. He bowed in reverence, making all the Gaya rebel army bowed to her as well.
Because of Yushin's alliance with the rebel army, Deokman gained an invaluable support from the people of Gaya.
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Deokman sent Bidam to face Mishil and try to convince her that the solar eclipse would happen in the 3rd day.
She painted his face in order to help him hide his emotion. Telling him that the card they were holding was a bluff. So she could not guarantee his safety if he fails.
Bidam boasted that he isn't afraid of anyone and anything. Thus she entrusted him with a crucial task.
On the first day, Bidam performed a ritual in front of the foundation well of Shilla and their emerged a tablet declaring about the twin birth. A fake tablet Deokman fabricated to make the kingdom accept her existence as a blessing instead of a curse.
'If the King have a twin, the royal blood will end. When the star rose to the heaven, the world will be plunged into darkness, and the other star will descend to bring back the light into the world. Opening the Kingdom to a new Shilla'.
The people begun to pray for mercy, fearing the reckoning of the darkness.
Mishil ordered her soldiers to capture Bidam and interrogate him.
" If you are indeed a prophet, you must have known your destiny. Tell me young man, when are you going to die?" Mishil asked him. The ministers laughed.
Bidam immediately realized the trap of the question. Looking around for answers that could save him, he noticed the King.
"I will die, 3 days before the King dies" he answered with a shrewed smile, knowing that he won.
Mishil was caught surprised by the audacity of this peddler to threaten the King publicly.
Bidam managed to irritate Mishil, but now he knew what fear is even for a little bit.
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Deokman then sent Yushin to deliver the message from Wulchon to Mishil, and instructed him to stare at Seju's eyes no matter what.
Being a generally honest person, lying is a bit difficult for Yushin. And he felt fear when Mishil saw through his lies, afraid that he had forsaken the plan because of his inability to lie.
Mishil couldn't help but snickered to herself.
"Deokman still has a long way to go before she could compete with me" she declared. "I need to confirm one last thing"
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The soldiers outside of Bidam's cell keep talking about the Solar eclipse that will not happen.
For the first time, Bidam feared for his life. Thus he tried his best to escape, but to no avail.
And on the 3rd day, Mishil finally announced that there won't be an eclipse and that the false prophet Bidam will be burned on the stake.
Thanking Bidam for confirming her hypothesis. The fact that he tried to escape, proved that the card they were holding is a bluff.
As the fire was about to light up the wood, the sky darken as the moon embraces the sun.
Bidam played his part as he recited the verse . 'If the King have a twin, the royal blood will end. When the star rose to the heaven, the world will be plunged into darkness, and the other star will descend to bring back the light into the world. Opening the Kingdom to a new Shilla'.
The people prostrated, as the King and Queen declared about Princess Deokman's identity.
Bidam couldn't help but laugh when he finally realized that the princess lied to him, and he never even knew.
"I really like her" Bidam said as he laughed like an idiot.
Chapter 7: The King Star Princess
The new princess started performing her task.
"Wow. So beautiful" Bidam said, admiring the princess's beauty unashamedly. "You look even more beautiful because of your dress"
"Hey! Respect the Princess of Shilla" Alcheon admonished him.
"Just let him be, Alcheon" she ordered.
"You and Mishil were so awesome. She defeated me, and you fooled me... Your highness" he said, bowing slightly because of how menacing Alcheon look at him.
"I apologize... Thank you Bidam, you did a great job" the Princess complemented him.
After a while, everyone leave except for Bidam who stared at Princess seating on her desk.
"You should not thank or apologize to people easily. Because Kings rarely does that" he said with a smile.
The princess smiled.
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The first project was to build the almanac she promised to Wulchon for helping her calculate the time the Solar eclipse would occur.
This building will be able to help the people know the time, day, year, that were best suited to plant and harvest their crops. It would also help them observe the movements of the sky, the moon, the sun, and the stars. This will eliminate the corrupt power of the highpriests and give power to the people.
Bidam happily reported back to Munno detailing about the princess's amazing fits and dreams.
"You wanted to help her then, even before you knew who she is?" Munno asked in amazement, knowing that Bidam is a merciless killer.
"Yes. Isn't it amazing that even without power back then, the princess wanted to be a king?" Bidam declared in awe.
Munno became worried. Initially, he planned to raise the princess along with Bidam. And when the time comes, the two will marry each other and rule over Shilla as King and Queen.
But what the princess did to retrieve her right as a royalty is not short of a miracle.
And yet... She is just a girl, she can't possibly become a strong King that would be able to achieve the dream of the Kings of Shilla.
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"Bidam, you came" Deokman said to the man approaching, as a smile graced her face.
"Can you defeat Mishil, Your highness?" he asked the Princess, who was waiting for him in the garden where she used to meet with her deceased sister back then.
"Why are you being too formal all of a sudden? Didn't I ask you to treat me just like before?" she asked with an amused smile.
"I was the one who asked first, Your highness..." Bidam interrupted childishly complaining, staring straight at Deokman's eyes. "Can you defeat her?"
Silence only followed.
"Mishil. She's the one I am thinking just now" Deokman said. "There is something I have, that Mishil has not"
Bidam stared at the princess in curiosity.
"Mishil" she answered with wisdom in her eyes. "I have her as an opponent. Ever since the reign of King Jinyeong, Mishil never met anyone that could rival her power. And in order to fight her, I have to learn from her and become stronger"
Bidam fell in awe.
"As I was speaking to her. I found out something. Mishil does not fear the Heavens. What she fears were the people, that's why she doesn't listen to their hopes and dreams. But in order to be a great King, I would listen to my people and do my best to help them. That is how my rule would be shaped"
"So tell me, why were you being formal with me?" Deokman asked.
"You see, I have two reasons.. As I looked at your dreams and actions, I realized that you are not on my level anymore. And I should not keep treating you as before" Bidam reasoned out, making her smile.
"and the second?" she asked curiously.
"I want to serve you. I want to stay by your side" he confessed.
"Why?" she asked surprised.
"You have fooled me and I didn't even realize... You are someone I don't want to become enemy to" he reasoned with a boyish smile on his face.
Deokman smiled "I also don't want to be your enemy" she said.
Suddenly Bidam knelt down on the ground in reverence to Deokman's wisdom and humility as a leader.
"From today onwards, I have decided, you will be my King... my Princess" He declared as he bow down his head.
She could only look down at him, as he swear alliance.
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At the day of the Almanac's foundation, the princess found Sowa. She was so happy to see her mother alive after all those years.
On the other hand, Chulsok, who took care of Sowa decided to return to being the assistant headmaster of the Hwarang after seeing the fear in the eyes of his beloved Sowa. Even though he took care of her for 5 years, he himself couldn't explain how he became too attached to the woman he was supposed to kill.
While Munno finally decided to reclaim his position as the headmaster.
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Munno took Sowa to his office and asked her why she run away.
"I am just a servant, but still, I cannot allow Bidam to marry the princess. You knew who his parent's were" Sowa protested.
Bidam was outside the office when Sowa said those words. Feeling hurt and rejected.
All of his life, he never asked who his parents were. He was contented with Munno as his foster father. But now...
'Marry the princess?'
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Bidam went to the temple to find the book of the 3 Han. And as he looked inside the box, he found two letters. One contains his exact birth date but was labeled under Hyeojong, and the other one belongs to an unknown person, Inmyeong.
The next morning, Bidam saw Deokman standing a few meters away from Yushin, who was practicing his swordsmanship in preparation for the Hwarang competition that will determine the next head of the Hwarang.
"Your highness?" Bidam asked carefully, seeing as the princess looked worried.
"Bidam" The princess said as she looked at him. "Yushin has to become the next head of the Hwarang at all cost. It would be difficult. But he has to win" she said thinking out loud.
Bidam just smiled awkwardly, before revealing the flower he was hiding.
"What is this?" Deokman asked surprised.
"Isn't today your birthday, your highness?... So I am giving you some flowers... even though you can't eat them, they say it can make women happy" Bidam said a bit childishly with a smile, wondering about the flower's usefulness.
Deokman smiled in amusement, as she stared at the flowers.
"Yes indeed. Flowers are beautiful. It's been a long time since I have acted like a man, so I almost forgot. Thank you for treating me like a girl, Bidam" the princess smiled.
" But today isn't my birthday. It's on the 13th" she said as she laugh at his expression.
'on the 13th?' Bidam thought to himself, as he remembered the other letter...
"Can I ask for a favor?" Bidam asked after sometime.
Deokman smiled "What is it?"
"You see, I am tired of Alcheon treating me like an idiot. I want to be educated too." he started to say, making cute expression that made Deokman smile at his childishness. "Can I use the library?" referring to the royal library inside the castle.
"Ok. I will inform them to allow you free passage whenever you like" she answered with a trusting smile.
Chapter 8: The Dark Moon Prince
Bidam went to the library and searched for the royal records. And there he found the proof of his existence.
He was Prince Hyeojong, son of the late King Jinji and Seju Mishil.
Which means, he has every right to claim the throne of Shilla.
This fact made Bidam sad.
Now he knew, their enemy is in truth, is his biological mother. His step siblings: Hajong - Mishil's son with the head of the ministers, and Bojong- Mishil's son with the Minister of war. And uncles were all his enemies if he stay with the Princess.
With his lineage, he would be the princess's greatest contender.
But he didn't wish to fight Deokman for the throne. Thus he vowed to give her his full support at all cost.
From then on, Bidam took steps to get to know his mother. And kept it hidden from the Princess
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In order to grant the Princess's wish to make Yushin become the head of the Hwarang. Bidam joined the competition as Munno's student, despite the latter's disapproval.
He displayed amazing swordsmanship and martial art techniques. Defeating Bojong, his step brother, and the undefeated champion.
His final fight was with Yushin but he didn't take it seriously. Because of that, Yushin almost been disqualified.
Thus Yushin ended up fighting against Chilsuk. But because of his strength and perseverance, he won the hearts of his fellow warriors and the competition. Everyone rejoiced, even Bojong who was his enemy.
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"I thought you were inherently smart and strong. But it's all just arrogance" Mishil said to Bidam after the competition.
"You know what you did in the arena? " she asked." all I see was a selfish boy craving for attention. Like a young man who says, look at me my love, for you, I will do everything to give you what you want... "she smirked." It doesn't suit you"
Bidam became speechless.
"Or like a child, who wanted to be noticed by his parent"
He paled. For indeed, Mishil is a terrifying foe who has the ability to accurately read people.
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There was murder in the market because of the rising prices of basic needs.
The princess sent Alcheon, Yushin and Bidam to investigate.
With the help of Bidam's underground connections, they were able to surmise the situation. The nobles were hoarding food to cause people to fall into slavery and sell their properties.
The princess decided to use the royal treasury and sold their stored food in the market while keeping the prices high. Since there is no way the court will allow to stop the nobles from hoarding.
Using Bidam's connection, they dump large amount of relief goods into the market pushing the hoarders to loose huge portion of their investments. And when the price became very low, they bought all the products at once, earning huge profit.
Because of it, the nobles who were hoarding food were forced to resell their stash at a lower price or they will face bankruptcy. The council of nobles protested against the princess misuse of the Royal treasury and armory. Thus they called for a council meeting.
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Bidam became exceedingly impressed at how the princess dealt with Mishil and the Nobles, when she flipped the case against the rich nobles and the lesser nobles, causing divide.
A lesson Deokman learned from Prince Chunchu- son of the late Princess Cheonmyong. When the young man caused the Prime Minister and the Minister of war to fight each other while Mishil was away to think.
Apparently, Deokman's wish to become the King despite being a woman made her question the foolishness of her dream.
Most of her life, Mishil aimed to become the Queen of Shilla. Never in her mind did she dare to become the King, despite her power in the court and the army exceeding that of the King himself.
And with Chunchu's plead to become the King despite not belonging to the sacred Royal lineage, due to his rank.
This awaken the possibilities inside her mind.
Not long, Mishil retreated away from the palace to do mountain climbing and remember the past. Inviting Bidam along.
"Tell me, why did you chose to serve Princess Deokman? You're just wasting your talent" she commented.
"Because I am a duckling. I follow the first person I see" he answered as he remember Munno's words. That it was Princess Deokman who helped him manifest his kind nature for the first time.
"You love her" Mishil declared.
"Is it too obvious?" he asked with a smile.
Mishil smirked. "But it's disappointing. I feel tempted to destroy such delusion" she continues to say.
"Love is to possess completely. If you love Princess Deokman, you should not share her with anyone. That is love" Mishil lectured.
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Bidam tried to reason with Mishil, and ask her to give up her dream of becoming the Queen.
"Why?" she asked.
"Because I am Bidam" he warned.
"Yes. I did admit to being unable to reach my goal, but it does not mean I will give up so easily" she said.
"Why? " he asked.
" Because I am Mishil. The real Mishil" she answered impossingly.
And that's when the thought finally formulated in Mishil's head.
"Foolish. I will become the King. You can run to your Princess as much as you want. But I will take what's rightfully mine" Mishil declared with convection, making Bidam stare in awe.
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Just then, Princess Deokman arrived at the place were Mishil is staying. She was surprised to see Bidam with Seju.
Which made her contemplate the possibility of Bidam hiding something from her.
But for now, she would wait for his explanation. And avoid judging without hearing his reasons.
She will wait. Because Bidam and Yushin were her wings. They were her greatest weapon.
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But what surprised her even more was the look on Seju that's about to unleash her full power against her to possess the Kingdom once and for all.
Mishil wished to become the King.
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Deokman visited the place were rebellion is taking place because of tax levies. Apparently the people in Anggan District hostaged their governor.
She promised to give them land at a lower interest, and when they paid it within 3 years they will own the land, in addition, she would return their tax and gave them high quality agricultural tools. She gave them hope and delayed their punishment.
But they betrayed her trust.
The princess returned to the District and personally delivered the punishment to the perpetrators.
Deokman killed the chief and his right hand man in front of the crowd. Her clothes became soiled by the blood of her foolish people.
After the event, her hands didn't stop shaking in guilt and anxiety.
'Is she becoming like Mishil?'
"Your highness... You don't need to become like Mishil. Even if you cry after killing people, you still look powerful" Bidam said, as he stared at her frightened eyes.
"Bidam... I hastened my decision. The people were not used to the benefits I presented" she said, contemplating.
"It's enough for me to see your kindness. It filled my heart with strength" he said as he look at her.
The princess looked up at Bidam, surprised.
"Just be yourself and the people will be happy just like I do"... And maybe they will change. I think I may also change.
Bidam smiled, which made her smile.
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"Your highness! Are you okay? Your hand is shaking" Sowa pointed out.
Bidam who heard of this, immediately went to the Princess and held her hand. "Let me see... Wahh! Your hand is shaking too much, have you shown this to the physician? Why did you have to hold a sword when Yushin and Alcheon were there" he asked worried.
Sowa watched in horror as Bidam interacted with the Princess so casually.
Deokman smiled in amusement.
" Why are you smiling?" he asked.
" Because I saw the old Bidam again" she reasoned with a smile.
"You..." he said as a smile spread in his lips. Finally remembering his place.
General Seolwon saw the interaction between Bidam and the Princess. It's undeniable. Bidam and Princess Deokman were very close.
"Come on... Let me see your hand again." Bidam childishly requested as he held the princess's hand. "You know... I have training in acupuncture, do you want me to treat you? "
"You're being pushy again" she complained with a smile.
"Don't ever do that again. Everyone were shocked. Alcheon and Yushin's eyes almost popped out" he commented.
The princess laughed.
Chapter 9 : Coupdetat
While the Princess was away, Bidam was kidnapped by Yungchul, his underground connection, under Mishil's order, to keep him from getting involved in the chaos.
While Yushin's father and Prince Chunchu's uncle were drugged. Thus they failed to attend the emergency meeting to remove Princess Deokman's power in the court.
And when both the ministers rushed to the meeting, they were barred out by unarmed soldiers.
Thus Yushin and Alcheon brought their Hwarang armies to help the two minister. But by doing so, they fell on Mishil's trap and was framed up to be having a coup, as the head of council was injured due to the fighting.
And when the Princess was informed of Alcheon's capture, she rushed to their aid but was stopped by Yushin who was able to escape.
He urged the Princess to leave the palace because Mishil's men had already held the Royal family hostage.
And just when they were about to be captured, Bidam and his men arrived to rescue the princess, as Yushin decided to remain and become a scapegoat.
"Save me, when you become stronger" Yushin said sorrowfully, as he pushed the princess out of the gate and locked it from the inside.
Deokman cried and cried, as Bidam took her away in his horse.
Yushin was captured. While the Princess was labeled as a criminal who committed high treason against the King of Shilla.
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Deokman regrouped with the Gaya rebel army, and planned their steps to rescue Yushin and the others.
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Thankfully, Yushin was rescued.
And that's when Deokman decided to return to the palace, knowing that an ambassador from the Tang dynasty will arrive soon.
She begged with Yushin to let her go and fulfill her role in the history. As they confessed their feelings to each other.
But in the end, Deokman was his King, thus he decided to let her do as she wish.
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The next day, Bidam realized that the Princess is nowhere to be found. Thus he confronted Yushin, questioning him why he let her go on her own.
He was so angry that he went back to the palace to rescue Deokman.
Alone, the princess confronted Mishil and implore the ambassador and the people to rescue the King from the tyrant Seju.
She was then held captive and was given the right to be judged in a fair trial to determine the weight of her crime.
At the trial, Mishil tried to kill her, but she was saved by the golden knife. Then Bidam came.
"Bidam" Deokman asked in surprise, as he and his men fought the enemies.
"If you ever do this again. I will never come to save you" Bidam declared seriously as he stared in her eyes. If it weren't for Yungchul's fear of him, he would have never been able to escape and come to save his beloved.
'But why did Mishil ordered to kidnap him, instead of killing him on the spot?`
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The tables was turned, Mishil and her army were forced to leave the palace and camp within the fortress in the east.
The princess tested Bidam's loyalty and asked him to get her hidden trumph card against Mishil.
An order from the late King Jinyeong to assassinate Mishil at all cost.
But Bidam read the letter, and his love for his biological mother surfaced.
He went to the enemy fortress.
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"where is the letter?" the princess asked.
"there is no letter" Bidam said, trying to smile but failed.
Deokman closed her eyes, knowing full well that Bidam was lying.
"From now on, I have decided to trust every word you say" she declared with a shaky smile in her face.
"What is your connection with Mishil?" she asked.
"Nothing" he answered after awhile.
She just stared up at him. "You can leave" she said to dismiss him.
Bidam just bowed his head. Unable to betray his mother.
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Deokman thus offered a truce. She would not punish them for what they have done, but instead, they shall swear alliance to her.
She even urged Mishil to become her mentor.
But Mishil refused.
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Seeing Mishil leave, Bidam begged the Princess to let him talk to her.
"Why did you not accept the princess's offer? Is her demands too difficult? " he asked.
" Why don't you ask your beloved Princess?" she answered with a question.
"Is this enough of a reason to yield to my Princess's wish? " he said, as he revealed the letter.
Mishil became speechless.
'So the letter arrived to its rightful owner' she thought.
"Why didn't you gave that letter to your beloved Princess?" Mishil taunted.
Silence reign in.
"This is a decree to kill you... But even for you, this order is unfair" Bidam said as tears fell from his eyes.
Mishil looked up at her son. And tried to touch his face.
"You're too naive... You're love is pure, but it's inappropriate. The world is a corrupted place" Mishil said.
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The two armies prepared to fight each other, while some of the soldiers in the borders of Baekji and Shilla came to aid Mishil.
But the Seju commanded the force to return to their station and protect the borders.
Deokman saw this, and for the first time, she saw the King within Mishil. A ruler who cares for her people.
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The next day, Mishil's army surrendered.
Bidam rushed to the enemies frontline and found Mishil seating on the throne, dying.
Apparently, she took lethal amount of poison to take her own life.
He cried and cried.
In the end, she still refused to acknowledge him as her son.
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Deokman rushed to the throne room and found Bidam crying in front of Mishil.
She couldn't help as a tear fell from her eyes. A sign of respect to the most talented woman in Shilla that's now been lost.
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The princess confronted Bidam, who tries to avoid her, about his treachery.
She run after him, and when they reached the peek of the heel, he collapsed in tears.
"Tell me, who is Mishil to you?" she asked.
Silence reign, as Bidam cried in anguish, knowing that he ultimately pushed his mother to death.
"Mishil... Is my mother... But she refused to acknowledge me as her son until the end... So how can I tell you who I am to Mishil. When I am nothing to her" he confessed.
"Why didn't you tell me?" she asked.
"I don't want you to think that I am no longer useful to you" he answered as tears fell from his eyes.
Hearing this, Deokman hugged Bidam, trying to comfort him. Knowing full well, what it's like to be abandoned by ones' parents.
While Bidam hugged his Princess tightly.
Chapter 10 : Female Ruler
After a few days, the coup was finally put to rest. Mishil's relatives were given amnesty but were stripped off of their former rank and power.
Princess Deokman is then herald as the new King of Shilla. Everyone celebrated.
'I will serve you with all my life, my King' Yushin thought as he bow down in respect to the new ruling Monarch.
Bidam bowed down. 'I will own every bit of your life, My Queen' he thought as he looked up at the female King. Because love... is to possess completely.
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Alcheon was promoted as head of the Royal guard, The King's personal bodyguard.
Yushin was tasked to become the Minister of War.
While Bidam was appointed by the King as the Director of the department for Anti-corruption. Under Deokman's command, he investigated all illegal activities within the Kingdom and rule over Mishil's men. Doing the dirty work behind the scenes.
While Yushin become the War hero.
These two begun to compete with each other, as per the King's expectation.
But soon, their friendly competition turn sour, when Bidam arrested Yushin's men.
The General questioned the King whether she ordered the Director to take his men without a fair trial.
"Director Bidam is stepping over your authority" some of the King's council protested.
The king remain silent, as she let her people say what's in their mind.
"Yes. I have given my word to the Director. He is acting on my behalf" she said.
The people in the court were shocked. Now that Bidam has claimed Mishil's power base and even has the blessing to do as he likes from the King, he has become very powerful in the court as even the court of officials feared his judgment.
Though, the King himself is also secretly concerned about the number of Nobles allying with Bidam.
The last straw to her patience is when the Director arrested Yushin because of the Gaya rebellion that still were active even today, despite their agreement to dissolve the army when she became the King.
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"Do you want to become the King, Bidam?" the king asked seriously.
"I would not dare to take the throne from you, Your highness" Bidam replied alarmed.
"Then why are you trying to cut my right arm?" she asked.
"If you wish, I will save Yushin for you, even though we suspected that he will never turn his back to the Gaya people"
"No. Don't get involved. I will solve this matter on my own" the King said. Suddenly her heart clenched inside her chest and it became hard for her to breathe.
"Your highness" Bidam immediately run to her aid in worry.
But the King refused to be helped. "Do not touch me"
Silence reign between them, before the King spoke.
"Some people wants to get married to become influential, but with you. You are accumulating power to get married. You are one of a kind. No one in my court thinks like you" she stated, hinting about Bidam's supposed feelings for her.
Perhaps, what pushed him to pressure Yushin, is because he was jealous of him.
"Seolwon said that you were acting like this because of me" The King said. "Tell me, Bidam. Do you love me?"
Bidam became fearful.
" Answer me. I am asking you a question" she commanded.
Bidam couldn't look at the king in the eye. "Yes. I... dared to fall in love with you...your highness"
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Finally, with the support of the King, Prince Chunchu and Bidam, Yushin returned to the palace and reclaimed his former rank as the Head General of Shilla. Because now, the Gaya ancestry and the rebellion is officially erased from the annals of history, as they pledged loyalty to the King and become one of the people of Shilla.
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Bidam escorted the King to her chambers.
"I am jealous of Mishil" the king confessed after all the people left, except Bidam.
Hearing this made him stay silent.
"When Mishil love and get married, her power grows stronger. But with me... when I love and get married... It will only cause chaos, isn't it right?" she asked.
"Didn't you wish to use me to become stronger and take the throne of Shilla... Why?... Don't you know that I am also getting hurt?... Don't you think that I also wish to live peacefully with my husband and children, who were taken cared off and deeply loved?" she continues to say, while Bidam listens, staring at the king attentively.
"Don't you know that my heart jumps... whenever you come near me?" she confessed with a trembling lips.
Hearing this made Bidam do the unthinkable.
He hugged the King tightly, overstepping her boundaries.
She fell silent, as he held her in his arms.
"This can't be" the King suddenly said as she pushed the Prime Minister away.
"Why?... Why can't it be?" Bidam asked.
"I am the King. This is unacceptable" she stated.
"Your highness" he pleaded with her. Knowing now that she also feels something for him, he can no longer stop himself from foolishly showing his love for her after all these years.
"I cannot love anyone other than the country" she reasoned.
"But your highness" Bidam protested.
"Do you only love me and not the country?" she asked.
He became speechless. For in his mind, he will forsake everything, even the country itself in order to take the King for himself.
"All the Kings before me strived to achieve the dream of this kingdom. I need to protect this country from invaders while striving to make it progressive. I have such huge burden." she reasoned, gathering her resolve not to give in to her own feelings.
"Love is to possess completely" Bidam said as he looked at his beloved.
"Stop, Bidam. You should stop now" she protested. "I am the King. No one can possess me as long as I remain a King"
Bidam couldn't help the tear that fell from his eyes, as he walked away.
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Suddenly the threat of the enemy invasion shook the court.
"Your highness, General Selwon devised a plan to protect the Kingdom." Bidam said, showing the map. "Just like you said. I will do it. I will save you and Shilla"
"the one who can save the Kingdom, deserves to possess everything" the King said.
Bidam looked at his beloved resolutely.
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But Seolwon and Bidam's plan failed. It was Yushin and his armies who ended stepping up to protect the Kingdom.
"I can't speak about war battles without seeing them with my both eyes. But there are things that just impossible" Bidam commented about the flying horse theory, of the Baekji's fighting general.
"Yes you are right. But why are you telling me this? Didn't you want me to get ahead of you?" Yushin asked.
"Yes. I don't want you to get ahead of me. But i don't want you to fail. You must win the war Yushin. For our country and the King" he said.
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Then the news about the fallen fortress in Apryang threatened the palace. Because with the enemies speed, it would only take half-day to reach the capital. Thus the court begged the King to relocate for the time being.
"Your Highness, I have developed an escape plan for you and Prince Chunchu. While you are away, we will stay to protect the palace" Bidam said.
"No. I will not leave the capital. You should relocate Chunchu instead, for he will lead the war in my place when something bad befalls me" she said.
"I apologize... But I can't do that. I am not Yushin. I cannot bare to put you in harms way even if it's for the sake of Shilla. You will relocate" he firmly said.
"Bidam" she protested.
"Why?...are you afraid that I will usurp the throne?" he asked." Why did my loyalty and love, are suspected of treachery?"
The King remain silent, unable to deny.
"My mother... I pushed her to death for... For you." Bidam said as tears threaten to fall from his eyes.
"And that's why you have resentment towards me... Is that it?" she retorted.
Bidam was shocked. "You have changed" he stated.
"Back when we first met, I tried to trade you for medicinal plants, but instead of anger... You thanked me. It doesn't matter why you thanked me, what matters was you thank me, at the time when no one ever thanked me" he said.
"Whenever people brand me as ruthless, you say that I am just brave. When the world cursed me for my devilish ideas, you say that I just think differently."
"and during the rebellion, when you found out that I am Mishil's son, you didn't get angry. Instead you hugged me" he continued to say.
"Why did you changed?" he asked. " Don't you no longer see my devotion and love?"
"Bidam" the King said, her cold appearance begun to crumble.
"You will relocate, your highness" Bidam said before walking away.
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Chapter 11: Love or Subterfuge.
The King went to the garden to think.
[memory]
'Stop pressuring Bidam to become the King' The King ordered Mishil's lover, Bidam's uncle.
'You are mistaken, Your highness' he answered. 'It is not we who was pushing him to take what's rightfully his... It is you. You are the one who keeps hurting his feelings'.
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"Your highness" Bidam greeted the King. "Have you decided to relocate?" he asked.
Looking at the lotus pond, the King tarted to relive her life in her memories.
"One day, someone tried to kill me... Because they say I am a Princess. Some people protected me. Some died, and others bowed down to me. They say that I should fulfill the dream of the Kings of Shilla." she narrated.
Bidam remain silent.
"Then you came into my life. And treated me like an ordinary person. Even when we are now in the palace, you still treat me the same way... I told you to keep doing so, because I like it." she confessed.
"Because whenever you are around me, I feel the life I once had. Perhaps that's reason why I feel safest beside you" she admitted.
"Then why did you changed?" Bidam asked.
"Because I no longer has a name. People address me as 'Your highness'. It's not my duty anymore to be a woman. I am the king. And you are one of my subjects who might have a motive to gain power. And in order to make sure you do not become the next Mishil, I have to keep an eye on you" she said.
Bidam remain silent.
"But Bidam... It's very painful for me" the King confessed. "You have no idea how much I wanted to lean on your strength. To trust you whole heartedly. It felt like my heart is being shredded to pieces by suspecting you" she said as tears fell from her eyes.
Bidam held her hands, wanting nothing but to wipe away her tears. But she is his King. And he is just her vassal.
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Bidam went to his mother's grave and pray for guidance.
For he is a fool.
Foolishly in love with the King. Because of that, he did all the dirty work and become the demon inside the palace.
He was the devil, the shadow that everyone in the Kingdom feared. While Yushin basked in glory as he win battles against Baekji. His achievements were hidden, and was cursed by the people.
Being the son of Mishil haunted him. Knowing that his mother and relatives were the King's sworn enemy.
And no matter what he did for the King, she will never marry him, because of the kingdom.
His darkness will forever curse him from embracing the sun.
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While kneeling in front of his mother's picture, the King arrived.
"Your highness" Bidam greeted respectfully.
"I need you" she confessed.
Bidam became speechless as he listens.
"Unlike other people who pushed me to become the King of this country. What I need now is the person who used to give me flowers, who made me laugh, and held my trembling hands." she said.
"Bidam... I need you by my side" she confessed.
Hearing that, it became hard for Bidam to breathe.
"The truth is... I did my best to stop it. I tried to forget my feelings for you. Because these emotions, were not allowed for a King like me" she said. Because being a a female ruler, her throne is in constant threat from people who wants to take it from her. And any imbalance in power could lead to chaos breaking out in the Kingdom.
"Your highness" Bidam started to say as his chest tightens.
"You made me feel like I am a normal person. That I am a girl" she confessed, knowing that accepting weakness is a crime a King is not allowed to do.
"Even if it's wrong. I will no longer correct it" she said, as she looked at Bidam.
"I end up loving you, because you love me as a woman... But I don't know ... if I am allowed to love" she confessed, unable to look at the Prime Minister in the eyes.
Seeing the King confess her feelings for him. Bidam was unable to stop himself from falling in her trap. Even if he shall become her hidden lover, he would accept it.
He hugged Deokman tightly. While she held Bidam to herself. Expressing her buried feelings for him. Resting her head in his shoulder. Feeling solace in his arms.
Because for once, she wants to love and be loved. To have someone to be with, in her loneliness. For being on the top keeps one isolated in fear of losing control.
As a king, she has to focus all her attention in making sure that the country is in peace and progress. Giving her attention to other than that, can cause chaos to the kingdom.
But as her sickness begins to weaken her, she knew that her time will come to an end soon.
And then, when would she be truthful to herself? Is there really no other option, that can take her place in the Kingdom?
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Bidam...
Bidam has always been there by her side. He had become her other half, the one ruling the kingdom beside her, behind the shadows.
He was her sword, that made it possible for her to control the court nobles. Her pillar of strength.
And she knew, all the sacrifices he made for her without complain. All his efforts.
His love.
He remained by her side, even though she kept him on a distance. Even though she speak to him like he doesn't have weight in her heart.
Even though she publicly favored Yushin.
Bidam kept loving her.
And because of that... She found herself, loving him.
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Chapter 12: The climax
The war between Shilla and Baekji broke. The kingdom was pushed unto the corner.
"I decree the the current Saesadong, Minister Yung chul will resign from his post. And Head director Bidam shall replace him." the King declared.
"During this wartime, I hereby order all the Nobles in this court to give their soldiers to Bidam, inorder to protect the Kingdom." she added.
These caused commotion in the court.
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Bidam kneeled in front of his mother's portrait.
"You said that love is to possess completely. But now, I will forget that principle. The throne, the dream of the Kings, and The three Kingdoms were nothing to me, when I see my love in tears. From now on, I will share her my everything" he said. "I will no longer possess her, instead, I will give her my life"
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"Do you trust Bidam?" Prince Chunchu asked.
"Yes. I trust him" The king said firmly.
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The news came, the war was over.
Thankfully, Yushin saved the day and won the battle against the fearsome Diablo, Baekji's elite warrior.
The palace rejoiced. The King gave Yushin plots of land, and pieces of gold as a reward.
Then she commanded Bidam to give up all his armies to the Minister of war.
The court nobles protested, because those armies came from their own houses that they offered to the Prime Minister to show their loyalty to him.
But Bidam stepped up and declared that he will give all his armies to Yushin, because the Kingdom is still in danger.
"I have one last announcement to make" the king declared to silence the court.
"I have decided to finally get married" she stated, making the court, Yushin and Bidam worried.
Some people want the King to marry Yushin, for he is a very powerful general and her long time companion.
While Bidam selfishly wanted to marry the King, even if he would lose everything.
But who would the King marry, for the sake of the Kingdom?
"I have decided to marry... Prime Minister Bidam" she declared, making most of the court nobles pale in fear.
Because this would significantly increase Bidam's power and influence in the court. Endangering Prince Chunchu's chance to become the next king of Shilla.
Other people couldn't believe the King's will to marry the son of her former enemy- the one who made her life a living hell, who tried to kill her and her mother, who killed her sister and held the royal family hostage.
Even Chunchu was shocked about his aunt's decision.
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Then Bidam visited the King, giving her his will.
"When I failed to die ahead of you, I have decided to write my will on this documents." Bidam started to say.
"I will abandon my position and power. And eventually follow you to the after life" he confessed sincerly.
"Anyway, I don't need to promise, because these things were easy for Bidam to do" he said with a smile.
She became speechless, not expecting him to go this far for her.
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Prince Chunchu asked the King for a secret meeting.
"This is..." Chunchu couldn't believe what he had read.
"Bidam wrote it himself" she confirmed. Then suddenly she give a red envelop to Chunchu.
"what is this? " he asked.
" It's a my royal decree. If in case Bidam didn't do as he promised. Kill him" she said. "But I hope you will understand my wish to spend my life with him, even if he shall betray me in the end"
Chunchu looked at his aunt. Fearful of the path she and Bidam is going take.
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"I am worried" the prince said to his adviser.
"If the the King did that, then everything is fine. Anyway, she had taken the nobles' entire militia and gave it to Yushin. And that's not an easy fit. She's incredible!"
"If my aunt was marrying for politcs, then I would have no qualms. But the King and Prime minister wants to live as true married couple..." he said.
"That's only natural. Our King is still a human, there is something Bidam can give to her that the country cannot. A loving companion to her loneliness" the royal adviser commented with a smile, knowing that over the years, the two became each other's solace.
"I am worried about the King's plan" the Prince commented, unable to believe that the King would marry for love.
.
.
Hearing the King's announcement to get married to Bidam, Yushin came to congratulate her.
"Are you not sad?" she asked Yushin, her first love.
He remained silent.
"I was. But I know that Bidam will take good care of you" he answered, unable to look at the woman he loved in the eyes. Though now, he has his own wife and child. Unlike before, he cannot fight for his feelings.
The King remained silent.
"The moment I pledged to serve you as my King, I have abandoned any hope of being with you" he confessed as he renewed his vow.
.
.
Bidam met with Yushin. And he congratulated him, as well as a warning.
"Do not let your love for her, become a burden to our King" Yushin said.
Bidam agreed.
"You are the only one who can be her pillar of strength. Please take care of her" he requested.
"I will" Bidam vowed.
.
.
Bidam then decided to give Yushin the books of the 3 Han, the ones Munno made in order for him to become the King.
But now, he will give it to it's rightful owner. For Munno was right, Yushin is the one capable of making use of those books.
'The dream of Kings of Shilla isn't for me. Because i have found a dream better than that of the Kings' he thought.
"If this is a bribe, then I will take it" Yushin jokingly said, as he accepted the books.
.
.
Then one day, the ambassador of the Tang dynasty came and humiliated the kingdom for having a weak female King.
Offering the crown prince of the dynasty to marry her and take Shilla from her rule.
This insult made the King angry, thus she captured them and interrogate.
The investigation somehow lead to Bidam becoming the main suspect.
.
.
"Why didn't you order to capture Bidam, Your highness?" Prince Chunchu asked.
"You of all people know, that Bidam has nothing to do with this." The King admonished her nephew.
"But because of him, his minions became out of control" he reasoned. "If we don't deal with him now, he would become a threat in the future"
"Are you afraid of him? And so you would kill an innocent person, is that it? " she asked the Prince. Knowing the hatred he possess towards Bidam for being the son of the person who killed his grandfather, his father and mother.
"Don't you dare touch him without my order" the King warned.
.
.
The King doesn't believe the accusations towards her bethrode. Despite the protest from her camp, to end Mishil's clan once and for all.
But when the nobles committed treason, she was forced to send Bidam away from the palace.
"Your highness, I will take the punishment for not being able to control my people" he said.
"I can't accept that" she confessed as she held his hand.
Bidam fell silent, looking at his beloved.
'Do you really believe that my aunt is marrying you out of love? Don't be ignorant.' Chunchu once said to him.
This memory made him question the King's intention.
Now that he's about to lose his power, he will become useless to her. Thus, she's abandoning him perhaps.
.
.
"We have yet to give something to one another" the King commented, as she gave Bidam a twin pair to her own ring. An engagement ring.
Bidam held her hand tightly.
"Go to Chuwa and build a fortress there. And when everything returns to normal, I will send you back to the palace" she said as she removed her hand from his grasp.
This made Bidam remember the time when Munno start being distant to him. This caused the scar in his heart to open up. Making him fearful of losing his beloved without a word of explanation.
"You should leave now" The king urged him to go.
.
.
The King wrote on her scroll.
'This would be the last problem, I would ever solve as the King. As I would finally gave up the throne to spend my remaining days with you Bidam.
Please wait for me there at Chuwa. And build me a small temple.
-Deokman'
A letter to Bidam. A sincere wish without expecting anything in return.
.
.
Due to some twisted events, Bidam's love for the King turns to hate, when he discovered her plot to kill him once and for all.
He finally joined with Mishil's allies and launched a coup against the King.
'If the only one you would ever love is the Kingdom. Then I will be the King and make you mine' he thought as he lead the rebel army.
That night, the King's star fell from the night sky, as she succumbed to her illness.
"Bidam" she called out, after learning about Bidam's rebellion.
.
.
[memory]
"Your Highness, why are you still awake?" Bidam asked, as he entered the King's bedroom.
She was in her sleeping clothes, studying the reports.
"I can't sleep" she reasoned with a tired smile in her unadorned beautiful face.
Bidam marched towards the bed and prepared her beddings.
"Your bed is now prepared, your highness." he said as he helped the King lie down on her bed.
"Bidam... Whenever I speak to you the same way I talk to other people... Did it hurt your feelings?" she asked, worried.
"It did not" Bidam answered, as he arranged the bedsheets on her.
"Ah" she whispered, looking up at him.
"You should sleep now, Your highness. I will not leave until you fall asleep" Bidam informed, as he patted her chest above the sheets gently.
"It has always been difficult for me to sleep" she confessed, as her eyes begun to drope.
"Why is that?" he asked tenderly.
"I am worried that I had started something I cannot finish. Then it would make me cry and I am unable to sleep" she said softly, as she looked up at him.
"Mmmm" Bidam replied.
"When I was young, I also used to have difficulty sleeping" she whispered.
"Why is that? Did you worry about something?" he asked.
"I was excited to wake up and ask my friends about the places they visited. About the new adventure that tomorrow will bring and..." the King said as she fell asleep.
Bidam smiled lovingly at her, before leaving.
.
.
Chapter 13: The End.
"Bidam... Unlike other people, I have become nameless. It's like I am not a person anymore" she whispered, as she sat beside him.
"I am nameless. Now... Everyone refers to me as Your Highness. I have lost my identity. And anyone who dares to call me by my name, would be committing treason" she said as he looked up at him.
"Then I will call you by your name" Bidam said sincerly.
"Calling my name, even in the name of love... Is punishable by death" she said.
.
"Deokman... Deokman" Bidam called out as blood fell from his eyes, after Yushin stabbed him.
Seeing Bidam fell to the ground, The King's heart stilled as she so wanted to run to his side. But instead, she strengthen her body and declare that the war is over.
As soon as she finished her speech, she fell just a few feet away from her beloved. Her sickness, took a toll on her health.
.
.
She fell asleep for 3 days and nights.
The moment she woke up, the first person she sees was Bidam.
His plan to infiltrate the rebel army and capture the perpetrators, lead Yushin's army to defeat the enemies.
The rebel army surrendered and pledged loyalty to the new King of Shilla, King Chunchu.
Bidam resigned from his post along with Deokman. Together, they lived as traveling traders. As they were considered dead in the annals of history.
The couple became a catalysts to the union of the 3 Hans. Together with their loving, smart, and strong children.
The end.
A/n: take that... Finally I am at peace.
Quoted from Wikipedia about the supposed rebellion of *Prime Minister Bidam against Queen Seondeok in the real history of Korea... Other theory, aside from what's been a coup, was a political manipulation to prevent Bidam feom gaining the throne after the Queen dies.
According to Silla's custom, in the event that a king passed away without a legitimate successor, the Sangdaedeung may be allowed to the throne as the new ruler, any other candidate will have to be approved first by the Hwabaek Council. Bidam, who was the Sangdaedeung at that time and has good reputation and influence over the court, was the strongest candidate for the throne. However, Jindeok was named as the successor even with the Hwabaek's approval.
But Bidam, who have been favored by the Queen, shouldn't have a reason for his sudden animosity or the desire to take the throne, without anyone noticing – especially the Queen. And so, some historians believed that Bidam, may have just been a victim of political manipulations by Kim Yushin, who have been trying to establish an absolute monarchy for Kim Chunchu. There was an alliance that was formed between Kim Yushin's supporters and King Kim Chunchu's supporters, after Kim Chunchu married Kim Yushin's sister. This alliance is what gave Kim Yushin a strong influence and power in the court, rivaling Bidam's power at that time. The problem starts after Bidam got appointed as the Sangdaedeung – a position that made Bidam the most powerful man in Silla.
One of the theories about it was that: During the time that Queen Seondeok's health was getting worse, the talk about her successor became an issue especially because Queen Seondeok refused to name her successor (out of fear of being manipulated). Bidam, who was a Sangdaedeung at that time and was people's favorite, has the strongest chance to become the next ruler. One night, Kim Yushin started a secret coup inside the palace and surrounded the whole place with his soldiers and didn't let anyone on the opponent's side to enter. When the Queen asked what the commotion was all about, Yushin told her that Bidam betrayed her and planning to start a coup to dethrone her, the Queen didn't believe him at first, but days has passed and Bidam and the rest of the nobles still hasn't shown up. Bidam and the royal nobles who heard of this news was enraged with what they believed was a plan to usurp the throne and gathered their soldiers and supporters to march towards the palace. A messenger then came and reported to the Queen, that the royal nobles, led by Bidam were marching towards the palace with their entire army. The Queen was shocked and disheartened by this news, but Kim Yushin calmed her and told her that "Bidam was a traitor who betrayed his Queen. But fear not! For I, have a plan to quell him". However, not too long after that, the Queen died. Although some story says that Queen Seondeok, may have been killed by one of the soldiers from the coup. Thus, despite Bidam's rebellion being said as one of the biggest in Silla's history – it didn't even last for 10 days, because it wasn't planned.
Some reasoned out that if Bidam, was truly against the idea of having a female ruler then he should have rebelled against that idea early on- back when she was still competing for the throne and not during the time that she was sick enough to die. Bidam, should have been wise enough to know the consequences of a failed rebellion; not to put his name, his entire clan, his position and everything he worked hard for at risk, by leading the rebellion himself.