황실의 사랑 이야기 (Hwangsil-ui Sarang Iyagi) - The Imperial Love Story

Chapter - 67

[There will be a festival occurring at the kingdom]

The palace was buzzing with activity. The annual festival was in full swing, with colorful banners and ornate decorations hanging throughout the courtyards. People from all around the kingdom gathered to celebrate, unaware of the tension brewing within the royal chambers.

Ryujin's parents had arrived earlier that morning. The king and queen of the neighboring kingdom were greeted with great fanfare by Yongbok's parents, and though they exchanged pleasantries, there was an underlying sense of urgency about their visit.

Later in the day, a private meeting was held inside the grand chamber, away from the festivities. Ryujin sat beside her parents, while Yongbok stood next to his. Minho and Seungmin were also present, their expressions stoic as they watched the proceedings unfold.

Ryujin's father, King Shin, was the first to speak.

"We appreciate your hospitality," he said with a polite smile. "But I believe my daughter has already expressed her feelings regarding this arranged marriage. She has no desire to marry Prince Yongbok."

Yongbok's father, the king of the Lee kingdom, shifted uncomfortably. "We were under the impression that this union would benefit both our kingdoms. However, it seems there are... complications."

Queen Shin leaned forward slightly, her expression calm yet resolute. "Our daughter has fallen in love with someone else, someone who makes her happy. We cannot in good conscience force her into a marriage she doesn't want."

Yongbok's mother looked shocked. "But this marriage is a symbol of unity! It's not just about the two of them; it's about our kingdoms, our people!"

Ryujin's mother gave a soft smile. "We understand the importance of alliances, but unity built on unwillingness will only lead to suffering. We've come to request that this marriage be canceled, for the happiness of both Ryujin and Prince Yongbok."

The room fell into silence for a moment as the words hung in the air. Ryujin's father continued, "We are not here to disrespect your traditions, but we believe that happiness and freedom to love should come first. It's not just Ryujin's heart we are concerned with. From what I heard, Prince Yongbok also does not wish for this marriage."

All eyes turned to Yongbok. He felt his heart pounding in his chest, but he took a deep breath and stepped forward. "It's true. I don't want this marriage either. I already have someone I love."

Ryujin spoke up. "I think it's time we all realize that the world is changing. People deserve to marry who they love, no matter their gender or status. My parents support me, and I'm asking you to support your son in the same way."

Ryujin's words seemed to resonate with Yongbok's mother. She looked at her son, her eyes filled with emotion, but the king remained silent, deep in thought.

Then, the festival drums outside boomed in the distance, signaling the start of the main event. The timing seemed almost symbolic as if the entire kingdom was watching this very moment.

Finally, Yongbok's father, the king, sighed heavily. "It appears the world is indeed changing," he muttered, his voice filled with reluctance. "We shall think this over and discuss further after the dinner."

Yongbok and Ryujin exchanged hopeful glances. It wasn't a full victory yet, but it was a step forward.

The festival outside continued in full swing, but inside, the first seeds of change had been planted.

After dinner...

The tension between Yongbok and Ryujin had been unbearable as they waited anxiously outside the royal chamber. They could hear faint voices inside but couldn't make out any details of the intense discussion happening between their parents. Hours seemed to stretch into eternity, with each passing moment weighing heavier on their hearts.

Ryujin fidgeted nervously, her fingers twisting the hem of her gown. Yongbok paced back and forth, unable to sit still. The uncertainty gnawed at them both, but they exchanged small, hopeful smiles now and then, trying to keep each other's spirits up.

After what felt like five agonizing hours, the doors to the chamber finally creaked open. Ryujin's parents emerged first, their expressions calm but unreadable. The two stood up instantly, rushing over to meet them, their hearts racing with anticipation.

"Did everything go well?" Ryujin asked, her voice a mix of hope and fear.

Her father smiled warmly. "We've handled the matter," he said, "and the wedding is off."

For a moment, both Ryujin and Yongbok stood in stunned silence, trying to process the words. Then, pure relief and joy washed over them. Ryujin let out a soft gasp of excitement, and before they knew it, they were hugging each other, laughing in disbelief.

"We did it!" Ryujin whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.

Yongbok could only nod, his arms wrapped tightly around her in a celebratory embrace. They both knew this moment wasn't just about avoiding a forced marriage; it was about regaining control over their futures.

Just then, Yongbok's parents stepped out of the chamber. Yongbok turned to them, his heart swelling with gratitude. He rushed to his parents, embracing them both. "Thank you! Thank you so much for understanding and for supporting me."

His father patted his back gently, though his face remained serious. "We only did this because we care about your happiness," he said, his voice gruff but sincere. "But there are still concerns, Yongbok. We're worried about how the people will react once this is announced to the kingdom."

Yongbok's mother nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with both love and concern. "The kingdom's traditions run deep. This... change, while it's what you want, might not be accepted easily."

Before the conversation could grow too heavy, Ryujin's parents stepped forward. "You needn't worry about that," Queen Shin said with confidence. "We will explain this to the crowd. We come from a kingdom where love is accepted in all its forms. Our people have embraced change, and we believe yours can too. With the right words and the right examples, the people will see this isn't a crime, but rather a celebration of love and freedom."

King Shin nodded in agreement. "We will stand beside you and help guide the people. The key to change is to lead by example. If we show that we, as rulers, support this, then it will open doors for others who feel the same but have been too afraid to speak out."

Yongbok's parents exchanged a glance, clearly still apprehensive but slowly coming to terms with the situation. His father sighed, rubbing his temples as he thought it over. "I suppose... if the people see that we, too, are willing to accept this, they may follow suit."

Ryujin's mother smiled. "Exactly. We will speak to the crowd during the festival's final ceremony tomorrow."

Yongbok and Ryujin felt a weight lift from their shoulders, their excitement renewed. It was finally happening—change was within reach, and soon, they could be free to love who they truly wanted.