TRUTH

Truth 11

A week later, Consort Jungkook sat alone in his bedchamber, the morning sun casting a gentle glow upon his pale face as he picked at his breakfast. A sudden knock interrupted his solitude. From the door emerged Ji-hun, bearing a bouquet of flowers and a sweet smile.

Jungkook looked at the bouquet with confusion. Understanding his perplexity, Ji-hun spoke, "These were sent by His Highness."

Jungkook's frown deepened. "After humiliating me, he sends flowers now? A typical King, of course," he said bitterly.

"No, Consort Jungkook, these flowers hold a special meaning," Ji-hun responded. "In royalty, flowers are a means of communication."

Still puzzled, Jungkook listened as Ji-hun, born of a noble family, explained further. "This bouquet consists of White Tulips symbolizing forgiveness, Pink Roses symbolizing love and appreciation, Lily of the Valley signifying a return to happiness and the making of amends, Ivy representing fidelity and commitment, and Daisies symbolizing innocence and new beginnings."

Ji-hun continued, "This bouquet signifies that His Highness is not truly angry with you. There must be something more going on."

As Jungkook pondered the implications of Ji-hun's words, Royal Consort Omega Yoongi entered the room, his presence commanding respect. His eyes softened as they landed on Jungkook, noting his fragile state. Yoongi had been informed of Jungkook's pregnancy and had taken it upon himself to ensure the young consort's well-being.

"Jungkook," Yoongi began, his voice gentle, "there are matters that need to be addressed, but your health is paramount."

Jungkook's eyes widened in surprise. "You know?"

Yoongi nodded. "Indeed, I do. Your condition is delicate, and we must ensure you are protected."

Ji-hun discreetly left the chamber, understanding the gravity of their conversation. Yoongi sat beside Jungkook, his demeanor serious yet comforting.

"Jungkook," Yoongi continued, "you must not tell anyone about your condition, not even Jimin or His Highness. The palace is rife with intrigue, and your safety depends on secrecy."

Jungkook, his hand instinctively resting on his stomach, nodded slowly. "But why keep it a secret?"

"Until we are certain of the loyalty and intentions of everyone around us, it is safer this way. There are plots afoot, and we must tread carefully," Yoongi explained. "Your health and the safety of your child are our top priorities."

Jungkook, feeling a mixture of fear and determination, agreed. "I understand. I will keep it a secret."

Yoongi gave a reassuring smile. "We will protect you, Jungkook. You are not alone in this."

Meanwhile, in a different part of the palace, King Taehyung and Jimin were in a chamber, surrounded by witnesses and individuals involved with Princess Delilah. The atmosphere was tense as the investigation into Delilah's treachery unfolded.

"Thank you all for coming," Taehyung began, his voice authoritative. "We are here to uncover the truth about the attack on my father, King Namjoon, and to expose those who conspired against the crown."

One of the witnesses, a servant who had worked in the royal garden, stepped forward. "Your Majesty, I saw Princess Delilah speaking with a hooded figure the night before the Spring Festival. They were discussing something in hushed tones, and I caught a glimpse of a bow and arrows."

Another witness, a guard from the palace gates, added, "I was on duty that night, and I noticed Princess Delilah leaving the palace grounds just before dawn. She was in a hurry, and her behavior seemed suspicious."

Jimin, taking notes, looked up and asked, "Did anyone else see or hear anything unusual involving Princess Delilah around that time?"

An older maid, who had served in the royal household for decades, stepped forward hesitantly. "I overheard a conversation between Princess Delilah and her maid. The maid was worried about the consequences, but the Princess assured her that they would not be discovered and that her plan would ensure she became Queen."

Taehyung's eyes narrowed. "And this conversation took place when?"

"A few days before the festival, Your Majesty," the maid replied.

Jimin glanced at Taehyung, the pieces of the puzzle starting to come together. "It's clear that Princess Delilah orchestrated the attack on King Namjoon to clear her path to the throne."

Taehyung nodded, his expression hardening. "We need to gather more concrete evidence and ensure that all those involved are brought to justice. Princess Delilah must be made to answer for her crimes."

As the investigation continued, the weight of their discoveries pressed heavily upon them. The intricate web of deceit and ambition spun by Princess Delilah was beginning to unravel, and with it, the path to restoring justice and protecting the ones they loved became clearer.

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Word Count: 771
Date written: 07/11/24
Date Published: 07/11/24
Author: Kheliyesh