My Rival, My Love

Chapter II: The First Meeting

YOUR POV

After I was formally presented to the people, (a servant was appointed to take back the sword from me) the King, the Queen and my brother came out of Geunjeongjeon Hall and joined me outside where the court officials, assembled members of government, ambassadors and other important dignitaries and persons with positions paid homage to us while the people outside of the palace, there were loud cheers.

The four of us walked once more along the middle of the courtyard, passing by the government officials who continued bowing at us. Once we passed through Gwanghwamun Gate once more, the crowds outside kept cheering Long Live the Crown Princess! There were also loud shouts of Manse! Our carriages arrived once more to take us back to Deoksugung Palace. It was another procession which involved waving and smiling to all those we passed by.

"Yah, I've got news." Jooheon told me as we waved at the people.

"What is it?" I asked.

"The Chaes had their own investiture ceremony."

"What? They did?!"

"Yep. Mr. Kim told us while you were being presented outside. Our dear old father just laughed it off. Actually, we were even surprised that their heir came back just earlier today, from France!"

"Really?! What's his name again?"

"Hyungwon. He's got nerves for doing that." Jooheon said. "And to top it off, they even invited the media to come there. Now, instead of them focusing on you, they had to divide their attention to the two of you!"

"Heol... I thought that none of that will resurface again. I thought they've been quiet all this time?"

"That's what we thought too but I guess they decided to move now."

"Why so?"

Jooheon pointed at himself.

"You? Why you?"

"The crisis I made... I think they want to exploit it to their advantage. But, poor them, you're the most popular member of the royal family so, if they think they can sway the people to their cause, well, they're very mistaken."

"Hmmm..."

"Yah, you know them so don't put your guard down. I'm sure they're going to attack you with whatever means necessary, you got that?"

"I know but..."

"But what?"

"I haven't even met Hyungwon."

"And so?"

"Well, I was thinking why continue with all this fighting? Can't we just end it by making up?"

"Yah, you know our history with them! They can't be trusted! Don't even think of meeting or talking with him! Do you understand?"

"Okay! Okay! I understand..."

"Besides, you have Changkyun anyway."

"Leave him out of this."

"If you say so but I don't think he would be out of your life for a long time."

"What are you saying?"

"Nothing... Continue waving... Oh look at that baby! It's so cute!"

Hmmm...

Something's not right...

I don't like this feeling at all.