Harmony of the Heart: The Legacy of Jeosoen

Chapter 9: A Royal Decree

Days turned into weeks, and the tension in the palace continued to mount. Queen Sunmi's resentment towards Hyejin only grew stronger, fueled by jealousy and a desire to maintain her position as the king's first wife. She began to plot more elaborate schemes to undermine Hyejin's influence over Jungkook, using her connections within the court to spread rumors and stir dissent.

Meanwhile, Jungkook struggled to balance his duties as king with his growing affection for Hyejin. He found himself increasingly distracted during council meetings and court proceedings, his mind wandering to thoughts of her. His friends, Taehyung, Yoongi, Seokjin, and Hoseok, noticed his preoccupation but said nothing, respecting Jungkook's privacy.

One morning, as Jungkook reviewed reports in his private chambers, Taehyung entered with a grave expression.

"Your Majesty," Taehyung began, bowing respectfully. "There are troubling rumors spreading through the palace."

Jungkook sighed, his brow furrowing with concern. "What rumors?"

Taehyung hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "It is about Queen Sunmi, Your Majesty. She has been spreading lies about Lady Hyejin, accusing her of... improper conduct with you."

Jungkook's jaw tightened with anger. "I will not stand for this slander. Where is she?"

Taehyung's expression darkened. "She is holding court with her advisors. She plans to petition you to banish Lady Hyejin from the palace."

Without another word, Jungkook rose from his seat, his mind racing with determination. He marched towards the throne room, his steps echoing through the corridors of power.

As Jungkook entered the throne room, all eyes turned to him. Queen Sunmi sat on her throne, flanked by her advisors, a calculating smile on her lips.

"Your Majesty," Sunmi greeted with false sweetness. "How kind of you to join us."

Jungkook's gaze was steely as he addressed her. "Sunmi, what is the meaning of these accusations against Lady Hyejin?"

Sunmi feigned innocence, her voice dripping with malice. "Accusations, Your Majesty? I am simply concerned for the sanctity of our royal household. It would be unseemly for a commoner to come between us."

Jungkook's voice was firm, his words measured. "Lady Hyejin has done nothing to deserve such treatment. She is an honorable woman, and her presence in the palace is my decision."

Sunmi's eyes flashed with anger, but she maintained her composure. "Your Majesty, think of your reputation. The court is watching."

Jungkook took a step forward, his voice resonating with authority. "I am well aware of my responsibilities, Sunmi. Lady Hyejin stays."

With that final decree, Jungkook turned on his heel and left the throne room, leaving Sunmi seething with rage. The courtiers whispered amongst themselves, unsure of what this confrontation meant for the future of the kingdom.

Outside the throne room, Taehyung and Yoongi waited anxiously for Jungkook. They exchanged relieved glances as he approached.

"Your Majesty," Taehyung said, bowing respectfully. "You have made the right decision."

Jungkook nodded, his expression weary but resolved. "I will not let anyone dictate who I can or cannot care for. Hyejin deserves better than this."

Yoongi placed a comforting hand on Jungkook's shoulder. "We are with you, Jungkook. Whatever comes next, we will face it together."

As they walked back to Jungkook's chambers, the weight of the confrontation settled on them. Jungkook knew that his defiance of Queen Sunmi would have consequences, but he was willing to endure them for the sake of his love for Hyejin.