A Love Across Time

Chapter 10: The Palace Hall

The morning sun cast a golden hue across the opulent corridors of the palace as Jungkook, adorned in regal attire, made his way toward the court. His every step echoed with purpose, a testament to his role as king. Servants and attendants bowed respectfully, acknowledging his presence with deference.

As he approached the grand entrance to the palace hall, the magnitude of the chamber enveloped him. The hall was a marvel of architectural splendor, its towering walls adorned with intricate designs that spoke of centuries of craftsmanship. Elaborate tapestries hung from the walls, depicting scenes of myth and legend, adding a touch of majesty to the surroundings.

The throne at the far end of the hall beckoned, a masterpiece of regal magnificence.

Its towering backrest was embellished with gemstones that caught the light and scattered it in a dazzling display. The seat itself was draped with rich fabrics, embroidered with motifs of the kingdom's history and heritage.

Above, the vaulted ceiling soared high, adorned with mirrors that reflected the grandeur below, amplifying the sense of space and light. Sunlight filtered through stained glass windows, casting kaleidoscopic patterns on the polished marble floor.

Jungkook ascended the steps to his throne, the weight of responsibility settling upon his shoulders. He seated himself with an air of solemnity, his gaze sweeping over the assembled courtiers and officials awaiting his presence.

The court came to attention, and the day's proceedings began—a tapestry of hearings, judgments, and decisions that shaped the course of the kingdom.

As the morning wore on, Jungkook's mind wandered momentarily, his thoughts drifting to Hera—the enigmatic figure who had woven herself into the fabric of his thoughts.

Amidst the ceremonial grandeur of the palace hall, Jungkook found himself yearning for the simplicity of their encounters in the village, where the complexities of courtly life faded into insignificance.

But duty called, and he presided over the affairs of the kingdom with unwavering resolve, his heart a mosaic of uncertainties waiting to be unraveled.

The palace hall buzzed with praise and adulation for his valor and leadership in defending the kingdom of Aerith from external threats. Ministers and scholars alike commended him for his bravery and strategic prowess in safeguarding the realm from spies and enemies, particularly the neighboring Kingdom of Eldoria.

Acknowledging the accolades with humility, Jungkook expressed gratitude to all those who had supported him during the tumultuous times of war. Yet, amidst the jubilation, he remained keenly aware of the debt he owed to Hera—the woman who had risked her life to shield him from harm.

Summoning the head maid, Chaeyoung, Jungkook entrusted her with a solemn duty—to care for Hera in the infirmary with utmost diligence and compassion. He emphasized the significance of Hera's sacrifice and the imperative to nurse her back to health as an act of gratitude and basic humanity.

Despite the ministers' surprise at the king's personal involvement in Hera's care, they dared not question his decision, recognizing his authority and unwavering commitment to his subjects.

Leaving the court behind, Jungkook made his way to the infirmary, his heart heavy with concern for Hera's well-being. Upon entering, he found her lying on the bed, her eyes reflecting pain and disbelief at the sight of him in royal attire.

As Hera expressed her disbelief, addressing him by name, Jungkook silenced the room, allowing only the two of them to converse. With a gentle smile, he revealed his true identity as Jeon Jungkook, the King of Aerith, and assured Hera of her importance and value to him.

Hera, overwhelmed by the revelation, attempted to maintain a formal demeanor, addressing him with reverence. Yet, Jungkook, desiring her to be at ease, encouraged her to address him casually, dispelling any notion of formality between them.

Their conversation drifted to Hera's recovery and the events that led to her imprisonment and subsequent rescue. Jungkook expressed his gratitude for her selfless act of bravery and vowed to protect her from any future harm.

As Jungkook departed, leaving Hera to rest, she found solace in the hope that Taehyung would visit her, offering explanations for their circumstances.

With a sense of exhaustion weighing upon her, she drifted into a peaceful slumber, her thoughts lingering on the enigmatic king.

As dawn breaks, Hera awakens to find herself embraced by Rose, her dear friend from the future.

Overwhelmed by emotion, she clings to Rose, pouring out her anguish and longing for their reunion. However, her euphoria is shattered when she realizes that the woman beside her is not Rose, but Chaeyoung, the maid assigned to care for her.

Confusion grips Hera as she struggles to reconcile Chaeyoung's striking resemblance to Rose.

She apologizes profusely for her mistake, attributing it to her longing and disorientation in this unfamiliar time. Chaeyoung, understanding and compassionate, reassures Hera and introduces herself, offering her assistance in Hera's recovery.

Grateful for Chaeyoung's kindness, Hera requests to be addressed by her name and engages in conversation with her.

Through their discussion, Chaeyoung regales Hera with tales of Aerith, recounting Jungkook's valor and the daring exploits of him and Taehyung in protecting the kingdom from spies.

Hera's understanding deepens as she learns of the covert operations orchestrated by Jungkook and Taehyung to safeguard their realm.

She marvels at Jungkook's cunning and strategic brilliance, gaining insight into the complexities of his role as king.

Curious about Taehyung's role, Hera queries Chaeyoung, who reveals him to be the army commander of Aerith and Jungkook's steadfast companion since childhood.

As Hera inquired about Jungkook's parents, Chaeyoung's demeanor turned somber, her voice tinged with sorrow.

She revealed the tragic fate of the late king and queen, recounting how they perished in a sea voyage to visit the queen's parents' kingdom, leaving Jungkook orphaned at the tender age of seven.

Moved by the heartbreaking loss endured by Jungkook at such a young age, tears welled in Chaeyoung's eyes as she spoke.

Hera, overwhelmed with empathy for Jungkook's plight, felt a deep sense of sorrow for the burden he had carried since childhood.

Sensing Chaeyoung's emotional distress, Hera tactfully redirected the conversation, seeking to alleviate the weight of the topic.

Together, they shifted their focus to lighter subjects, discussing the intricacies of Aerith, its villages, and the surrounding landscape.

Through their conversation, Hera gained a deeper understanding of the kingdom and its people, finding solace in the shared exploration of their new environment.

Despite the shadows of tragedy that lingered, Hera and Chaeyoung found comfort in each other's company, forging a bond of compassion and resilience amidst the trials they faced.