"The Second Ruler" {Completed} (Yoon-Min)

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As the Emperor Emeritus Seokjin reached the kingdom of Aranthia, he noticed the changes in the kingdom.

It had become more beautiful and calm. The citizens of Aranthia were surprised, amazed, and delighted to see the former prince visiting the kingdom after decades.

They peeked from their houses, stalls, and behind doors to admire the beautiful former prince.

Now the Emperor of the largest empire in Asia, the second ruler of Goryeo, and the loyal, kind, and respected husband of Emperor Namjoon.

Despite the heavy rain, which prevented the citizens from kneeling to welcome him, their admiration was palpable.

Jin had multiple thoughts racing through his mind—fear, excitement, and nervousness—aware that his father, King Aldric, was still angry with his decision.

As they reached the gate of the palace, the guard quickly recognized him and bowed deeply.

"It is a pleasure to see Your Highness in the kingdom again," he greeted, opening the gate.

Seokjin smiled, his eyes becoming moist as he witnessed the same love from his citizens.

"Indeed, but address me as the Emperor Emeritus. I am here as the Emperor of Goryeo, not as the Prince of Aranthia."

As Seokjin entered the palace grounds, memories of his youth flooded back.

He indeed was the prince but now he is the Emperor of the Goryeo.

His father had abandoned him, when he was about to begin his life, he's still hurt, yet decided to be polite.

The familiar stone pathways, the grand arches, and the lush gardens all seemed to whisper tales of the past.

Despite the rain, the palace retained its majestic aura, a testament to its enduring legacy.

The palace servants and guards, recognizing the former prince, bowed deeply as he passed.

Their respect and admiration were evident, even through the heavy downpour.

Seokjin's heart swelled with a mix of nostalgia and apprehension.

He knew that his father, King Aldric, awaited him, and the thought of their impending confrontation weighed heavily on his mind.

As he approached the grand hall, the doors swung open, revealing the opulent interior.

King Aldric sat on his throne, his expression stern and unyielding. The years had not softened his demeanor, and Seokjin could feel the tension in the air.

He noticed Aldric open his mouth to speak but he didn't let him.

"King Aldric" Seokjin began, eye's held many emotions but voice grasp authority. "I come before you as the Emperor Emeritus of Goryeo."

King Aldric's eyes narrowed, his voice cold. "You have returned, But do not think that time has erased the consequences of your choices."

Seokjin straightened, meeting his father's gaze with a calm resolve.

"I understand your anger. But I have come to seek reconciliation, not conflict. My life in Goryeo has taught me the value of unity and peace."

The king's expression remained hard, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes—perhaps curiosity, or a reluctant respect.

"You speak of unity and peace, yet you abandoned your duties here. How can I trust your words?"

Seokjin took a deep breath, his voice steady.