When Can I See You Again?

Chapter 8 (Jinheung's POV)

It was only much later that we returned to the Hwarang House. When we came back, I made sure that Haewon went to bed immediately and then went to see the others. As expected, they were worried. 

As I explained to them the situation, Ahro said, "I hope she's alright. That must've been a shock." Banryu huffed and said, "That's not what's important, though. While you were gone, Prince Chang of Baekje has declared war! Fortunately, our spies got information.  He'll begin the first siege at the northeast border tomorrow evening. We should get the army ready. Luckily, it's only one platoon of soldiers, so if we also send out a platoon, we'll win." 

I nodded and said, "Okay. It seems we won't get rest tonight. Tell the soldiers and get them ready, all of you. We'll tell Haewon after she wakes." With that, we dispersed. I went straight to Haewon's chambers and sat quietly on her bedside. While she slept, I started polishing her armor and her sword, admiring her as well. She woke in an hour.

When she saw me sitting next to her, she sat up and hugged me gently. I said, "Are you feeling better, my love? You had me worried." She smiled softly and said, "Everything feels better next to you, my love. Isn't the moon pretty tonight?". I leaned my head on hers and replied, "Indeed it is. But why would I look at the moon when I have such a perfect sight next to me? The starry sky I see in your eyes makes the moon's beauty pale in comparison." She chuckled and said, "Always so charming."

I said quietly, "But we won't be this happy for long, my love. Chang of Baekje has declared war. China is sending their troops as fast as possible, but we'll have to face the first siege alone. That is why I must ask you to take a platoon and head to the northeast border tomorrow. And when you win, send an arrow with a red flag tied to it and I shall send the rest of the army and China's troops." Haewon replied, "Of course, my love. You don't even need to ask."

Just then, Xufeng came in. I saw the familiar flash of agony in his eyes as he saw Haewon and I. But he hid it well as he said, "They're waiting for you, Langlang. It's best you wash up and then go." Haewon nodded, grabbed her battle armor, and left. 

I said softly, "Cai Xufeng. I know you love her, and I know she loves you too. But not more than she loves me. I'm sorry." Xufeng sighed and said, in pain, "No, I'm sorry, Jinheung. I'm trying to be happy for you both, but it's very difficult. I'll never see anyone else. I only see her. Even when I close my eyes and try to see something else." I sighed and said, "I know the feeling." And with that, I left.

Haewon had already set off with the platoon so I just had to wait. And as expected, the arrow with the red flag came. In the next week or so, there were constant battles at the Baekje-Silla border. This only increased my worry, but everyday, an arrow came back carrying a message of victory. Soon, thanks to China's help, we easily won the war. And Haewon returned safe and sound, much to my relief. 

One day, I was relaxing in the palace's throne room when Cai Xufeng entered, carrying an emerald-green message scroll. I said, "What is it?". Xufeng said, "Since China helped you, this is about the price in exchange." I nodded and he started to read.

He read, getting paler with each word, "Greetings to the 26th king of Silla and my friend His Majesty Kim Jinheung. I'm writing to let you know what price I've decided. You must comply no matter the price, given the agreement. The price I would like to ask is for my subject, General Chen Huilang, to return home. Please send her and General Cai the day that this message reaches you. Sincerely, Yuhuang Shangdi, Yudi, His Majesty The Supreme August Jade Emperor."

I rose out of my seat, in shock. I choked out, "What?! His price is my Haewon?! No!". Xufeng bowed his head and said sadly, "My sincere apologies. But you will have to comply, Jinheung." I knew he was right. Yet I could not accept it. 

As I felt what was like a spear pierce my heart and as I felt the tears well up, I dismissed Xufeng quietly. And I cried. I cried until I had soaked my robes through. But I knew it would never be enough to express the sorrow and pain I felt for the one I loved.