Author's Note:
Hello dearest readers! At long last, I found the chance to write this chapter. Honestly, this is the very first time that I jumped from T to M (or slight M?) rating. Just checking how far I can go as a writer. :)
I'd love to hear your thoughts!!! XOXO
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Joong Ki
We stand there in agape at what the military officer said. I turned my eyes to see the fear on Chae Won’s pale face. I could feel my heart thump in my head, the cold sweat forming on my temple.
“Shall we, Suk Yong Chae Won?” the officer asked. I wanted to pull Chae Won at that instant and run away as fast as we could, but I know that would not do us any good.
We followed the officer’s lead until we reached one of the king’s courts. Jin Kyung was standing beside the door waiting for us.
“Suk Yong Chae Won, the king is anticipating your presence. Gungnyeo Jeul Ki, please assist me as I prepare her.”
We brought Chae Won to one of the rooms where we changed her hanbok into a special sok ot, one that is made out of the finest silk with intricate embroideries. It is obviously intended for special occasions like this, and my heart breaks a million times at that thought of what might happen next.
I loosen her hair from her braid, and carefully run the comb over it. In a while, another hand will be caressing her silky strands, and not just another person’s hands, it’ll be the king’s.
Chae Won was silent all throughout, and I truly understand why. I can feel her uneasiness, her nervousness and her fear. I feel useless, it is as if I am failing my promise of protecting her.
Chae Won
I feel numb all over. I do not know what to expect, but I do know that it will entail my future in the palace. They expect me to please the king, but honestly, I have no idea how. No one has ever told me about it, needless to say that I am not very knowledgeable when it comes to matters of intimacy.
Joong Ki was combing my hair and none of us were speaking. I know this is hard for him as well. I sometimes wonder if things were have been different, would we marry and have children of our own? That might be far from possibility now.
“You are done” Jin Kyung exclaimed. She holds me up and places her hands on my shoulders. “Like what I always remind you, consider yourself fortunate, Suk Yong Chae Won. This is a very rare opportunity, and your future is in the palm of your hands.” I can feel her concern for me, like a proud mother about to entrust her child for marriage. All I can do is nod in response.
Joong Ki opens the door for us, and we cannot seem to look at each other because I know it will only increase our grief.
Slowly we walked along the hallways and I feel like I am on my death march. The silence of the night only adds to my uneasiness. Finally we reach the room, and a military officer opens it for me. I look back at Jin Kyung where she reassures me with a weak smile. I step into the room and before it closes I glance at Joong Ki who I found had a blank expression on his face.
I carefully paved my way through the dimly lit room which was filled with a jasmine aroma. I was then welcomed by a large bed where I think can occupy five people. It was covered with white linen and red silk blanket. It has curtains of red color as well. I fidget my hands on both sides of my sok ot as I stare at the bed.
“A pleasant evening to you, Chae Won” I was disturbed from my reverie upon hearing a low manly voice. I turn my gaze to where the voice came from, and there I saw the king sitting on one corner. He was wearing a white sok ot and a manggeon on his head. He stood up and slowly made his way to me.
