Forever Bound

CHAPTER 7

Short chapter..

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Actions taken, words spoken free
Their impact lingers, destiny
Shadows cast, paths yet unknown
Consequences born, forever sown.

Seated in his majestic chamber, the Emperor luxuriated in a bathtub filled with soothing hot water, its warmth enveloping his weary body. The iching, a persistent affliction, had begun to subside, its ferocity tempered by the gentle lukewarm waters that now cradled him. Yet, despite the relief, his mind seethed with turmoil, consumed by a singular, haunting question: who could have perpetrated this heinous deed?

His usually composed demeanor was now ruffled by the burning sensation that coursed across his skin. A latticework of angry red rashes spread across his arms, chest, and back, a painful testament to the mysterious attack. Each tender touch of the water stung, a reminder of his vulnerability.

As he soaked, the Emperor's thoughts churned with suspicion and indignation. Who among his trusted advisors, loyal guards, or even family members could have betrayed him so callously? The usually crystal-clear waters of his bath now seemed tainted, reflecting the turmoil that churned within.

With each passing moment, the Emperor's determination grew. He would uncover the truth behind this treacherous act, and ensure that justice was served. The soothing waters would heal his body, but only vengeance would salve his wounded pride.

After a warm bath, he wore a light robe and sat on the edge of the bed while listening to his general.

"Your Imperial Majesty," said Min Yoongi, "it was poison ivy extract on your hanbok."

"Poison ivy?"

Min Yoongi bowed slightly before continuing, "It was poison ivy extract, carefully applied to the fabric. We suspect it was meant to cause discomfort and distraction, rather than serious harm."

The Emperor's eyes blazed with fury “Who dares to commit such treachery?”

Taehyung's gaze lingered on the rain-soaked streets beyond the chamber's window, his wet hair dripping rivulets of water onto his shoulders. His golden eyes warmth tempered by a flash of steel. "General Min, uncover the identity of the perpetrator behind this audacious act."

"Your Majesty, we cannot trust Elverian guards and servants. I will dispatch our own guards to investigate further and ensure the truth is revealed."

General Min Yoongi exited the Emperor's chambers and strode through Elveria's opulent hallway, knowing precisely where he was headed - the laundry and Celestiane's guards' quarters. Earlier, Emperor Taehyung had arrived at Elveria accompanied by General Min Yoongi, Minister Lee Heeseung, and his loyal guards.

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Upon their arrival at the Crown Prince's chambers, Princes Homin and Hunjin discovered Jungkook lost in contemplation, pacing within the confines of his private quarters. Weighed heavily upon his mind were the pressing matters concerning the illustrious Emperor , coupled with the troublesome exploits of his own brothers .

Hunjin approached, holding up a bottle of antidote. "We've got the remedy, hyung. The physicians confirmed that applying this oil after a warm bath will effectively heal the poison ivy rashes.”
Jungkook's tense expression eased, replaced by a sigh of relief.

"Shall we proceed to Emperor Taehyung's chambers?" Jungkook inquired, his gaze drifting to the bottle in his hand, his tone laced with a hint of curiosity.

The two princes exchanged uneasy glances, before simultaneously taking a step back, their hesitation palpable, as if the very notion of entering the Emperor's presence filled them with trepidation.