Decisions

Not a Coincidence

Despite recent events, the 9th day of the 9th month was drawing near and preparations were made to honor the ancestors, in order to prevent bad luck from settling upon the family.

When the day arrived, everyone was gathered at the gazebo once again to celebrate. That was a very loose term, considering the amount of discord that existed between certain members of the family. However, pretenses were put on, since today was tradition.

Only this time, Soo was sitting at the table instead of being a Court Lady. Regardless, this day did not give her great memories, and she hoped that it would pass quickly. Surely they would all drink one cup of tea and then leave, right?

The King, despite being unwell made an effort to attend the event, and sat at the head of the table along with his first wife. His daughter, although now in her early teens, was still too young, so she was celebrating in her chambers along with the court ladies. Seol was also too young, and she was currently being watched by Arang and Eun Bi in Soo and So's private quarters.

Since So was the next oldest, he sat directly to the right of the King, and Soo as his wife sat next to him.

Queen Yoo sat across from him, and Queen Hwangbo sat across from Soo. Wook and Yeon Hwa followed suite, along with the 9th prince.

Next to Soo sat Eun followed by Soon Deok, Baek Ah, and then Jung, who had arrived home just in time for the festivities. As she looked down the line of royals by her side, they all met her gaze with silent smiles, and the sight made her feel a little bit better about today. Eventually the gongs rang and everyone looked toward the King to make an opening statement.

"I thank everyone for being present today. I understand that I am not in the best of health however, I am honored to be with you all today."

"Paeha, your generosity knows no bounds," they all chorused.

"I hope that we can all put aside our differences for today and enjoy the celebration."

"As you wish, Paeha."

And with that, the gong rang again and the court ladies came in lines bearing tea for everyone. At first Soo did not pay attention to who, but when Arang set the teapot down in front of her, she jerked her head up abruptly.

What are you doing here? Her eyes asked questioningly. A senior court lady should not be serving tea here.

Arang looked at her apologetically and murmured under her breath, just loud enough for Soo to hear.

"Eun Bi is still with Seol, but one of the court ladies who was to serve your tea fell ill. I volunteered to step in."

With a bow, she stepped back and stood behind the tables to wait until the tea needed to be refilled.

A thousand things ran through her mind, but one thing stood out: this situation was too familiar to just be a coincidence. The last time a court lady had to stand in to serve tea on the 9th day of the 9th month, was when Soo herself was blamed for poisoning a prince.

She didn't want to jump to conclusions but in this world and time, it did well to listen to your gut feelings. Looking up across at the opposing tables, she eyed Yeon Hwa and Queen Yoo, both who were waiting as their tea were served, before taking delicate sips.

She didn't stop staring until So reached over to touch her hand, and she broke out of her reverie. Looking over at him, she met his questioning gaze, and she forced a smile, shaking her head slightly, before looking down to her own cup of tea.

The problem was, who were they aiming for this time around? Surely it wasn't the King? Looking up quickly at the table she saw that he had already drank the tea, and seemed fine. Who else would they target...the heir?