FINALLY! I was able to capture my muse and write this. I am terribly sorry for the delay, but I hope you still remember the story and enjoy this final chapter. :D
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"Uri Myung Dae really does look like his father, doesn't he?" Chae Won was playing with her son in the confides of room. It has been three weeks since she has given birth to Myung Dae, but it is already evident that he is a miniature version of his father. But of course it was only Chae Won who noticed it because the baby is not yet allowed to be exposed to the public until the next full moon.
Jusang Sang Wook would often visit them when he had the time to fond over his "son" and heir. Chae Won would somehow feel guilty whenever she sees the king carry and smile over Myung Dae. He is fully convinced that he is his son, and he has already planned so many things for the child.
Chae Won's reverie was disrupted when the door opened revealing the head monk.
"A pleasant day to you Suk Yong Chae Won. I am here to inform you that the prince will soon be introduced to the kingdom the day after tomorrow, just in time for the full moon. By then please prepare yourself as your duty will be more different now."
I looked at my child who is staring at me with I could consider as pure infant adoration. With a small smile I thanked him for the information. Indeed there is no going back, my child is going to be the crowned prince, the most secure position in the kingdom, just where Joong Ki wanted him to be before he left. As if sensing my distress at the loss of his father, Myung Dae whimpered and tucked his chubby cheek on my chest just above my heart. Thank you for keeping me sane, my child.
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The evening has come when Myung Dae will be presented to the kingdom and will be declared as prince.
Everyone was gathered in the throne hall, positioned in places according to their ranks – the monks on each row facing the throne followed by the soldiers, while the queens and hugungs on the sides. There is a festivity, people making music and dancing around a bonfire. I am totally overwhelmed.
Myung Dae is fussing in my arm and is close to crying due to the unfamiliar noise around him. I patted and rocked him in the hope of comforting him.
The night has come and the ritual has officially begun with the thumps on the janggo, and the hugungs dance around the bonfire while in their most colorful hanboks.
Jusang Sang Wook goes up to the platform and sits on his throne made of wood adorned with gold. He is watching the festivity with great pride. After the performance everyone turns their attention to the king as he stood and projected to the crowd.
"My fellow men, the day has come that the heavens answered our prayers. The security of kingdom is now in place with the birth of my heir! It is of great pleasure and honor to introduce your future king, Myung Dae." He set his gaze to his left where I was carrying my child. This was his cue for me to take my place on the platform and deposit Myung Dae into his arms. He placed a kiss on Myung Dae's forehead and repositioned him so that the people would see his face.
Everyone then bowed before him – this view alone brings shivers to my spine. My child has just been proclaimed as the heir to the king's throne. I should feel joy and pride, but why do I feel uncomfortable?
The festivity continued, plentiful food was served and music filled the air. I glanced on the king and I could see the happiness in his features. He might have sensed my gaze as he turned to me.
"Are you enjoying the night Chae Won?" he asked with a smile.
I was surprised with his warm expression. "Yes I am, I am grateful for everyone's warm welcome for my child". He nodded and turned his gaze to the performance.
