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

Chapter - 68

The day of the festival dawned bright and clear, the air buzzing with excitement. Colorful banners fluttered in the gentle breeze, and the courtyard of the palace was filled with music and laughter. The people had gathered for the final ceremony, where the king and queen traditionally gave speeches, and everyone eagerly anticipated the festivities.

However, this time, the atmosphere was different. Behind the scenes, something far more important than a simple celebration was about to unfold.

Yongbok stood beside Ryujin in the palace corridor, both of them dressed in their finest attire, but neither felt the usual excitement that came with such events. Their minds were focused on the announcement that would change everything.

Ryujin's parents were standing near the grand stage, preparing to address the people. They had discussed the plan thoroughly the night before and were confident they could convey the message in a way that would bring understanding rather than resistance.

Yongbok's parents, on the other hand, stood a few feet away, still tense but resolute. They knew what was at stake, not only for their son but for the kingdom itself.

Finally, the time arrived. The crowd quieted as King Shin stepped forward to the edge of the stage. His voice rang out, strong and steady.

"People of this kingdom," he began, his presence commanding but kind. "We are gathered here today to celebrate our festival of unity, a time when we come together in joy and in pride for our land and our people."

The crowd cheered, and Ryujin's mother, Queen Shin, smiled at them from behind her husband, waiting for the moment to speak.

"But today," King Shin continued, "we wish to speak of something more. Something that has long been a matter of silence and whispers but must now be brought into the light."

The crowd hushed, intrigued. People exchanged curious glances, wondering what the king meant.

"Love," Queen Shin spoke next, stepping forward with grace, "is a powerful force, one that shapes our lives, our kingdoms, and our future. It comes in many forms, and yet, for too long, some of these forms have been shunned and hidden away."

Yongbok's heart pounded in his chest as his parents exchanged worried glances. Ryujin squeezed his hand, offering silent support.

"We are here to tell you," Queen Shin continued, "that love—no matter what form it takes—is to be celebrated, not condemned. It is time for this kingdom to recognize that love between any two people, regardless of gender, is valid and true. And we stand here, as rulers and as parents, to say that no one should be forced into a marriage where love does not exist."

The crowd murmured, clearly taken aback by the statement. Some of the older members exchanged disapproving looks, but others seemed more open to listening.

King Shin gestured toward Ryujin and Yongbok. "Our children, Princess Ryujin and Prince Yongbok, were to be wed in a union arranged for the benefit of both kingdoms. But we have come to realize that this union would not bring happiness to either of them. Both Ryujin and Yongbok have found love elsewhere."

At this, the crowd gasped, shock rippling through the people. Whispers filled the air as they tried to comprehend what they were hearing.

"It is for this reason," Queen Shin added, her voice strong and unwavering, "that we have decided to cancel their wedding. They should not be bound by a contract that does not align with their hearts. Prince Yongbok and Princess Ryujin deserve the freedom to love the ones they truly care for."

Yongbok's mother stepped forward, taking a deep breath. "We understand that this may come as a shock to many of you. But as rulers, it is our duty to ensure the happiness of our people, starting with our children. We ask that you open your hearts and minds to this change."

The murmurs grew louder, but there were pockets of approval in the crowd. Some of the younger generation nodded in agreement, while others still seemed unsure.

Ryujin's father stepped up once more. "We come from a kingdom where such love is accepted and celebrated. And we believe that this kingdom can grow and evolve in the same way. This is not about breaking tradition—it is about embracing the future."

At this, the crowd's reaction became mixed. Some clapped, supporting the idea, while others were still visibly uncomfortable.

Yongbok and Ryujin exchanged hopeful glances as they stepped forward to speak directly to the people. Yongbok's voice was calm, but there was an undeniable passion behind it.

"I know that for many of you, this is unexpected. But I ask you to think about the future. About the kind of world we want to live in. One where people are free to be with the ones they love, without fear of judgment or punishment."

Ryujin spoke next, her voice steady but full of warmth. "We stand before you, not as future husband and wife, but as individuals who deserve the right to choose our own paths. We are not alone. There are others in this kingdom who feel the same, but they have been too afraid to speak out. We hope that our decision today gives them the courage to live their truth as well."

As their words echoed through the square, something shifted in the crowd. Slowly, more and more people began to clap, their faces softening with understanding. The support grew, with voices calling out in approval, though there were still those who held back, uncertain.

But it was clear—the kingdom was beginning to change.