MY CROWN PRINCE | JEON JUNGKOOK

Episode 8: Shadows of the Past

Jungkook dismounted his horse as he arrived at the grand palace of Silla, the ancient walls echoing with history. Seokjin, ever the diligent aide, approached with a respectful bow.

"Jeoha, I will inform the court of your arrival," Seokjin said, his voice steady.

Jungkook nodded solemnly, and Seokjin departed to carry out his task.

*****

The palace was a hive of activity, the atmosphere thick with the weight of mourning. The courtiers, assembled around the Queen's lifeless form, whispered among themselves. The news of the Crown Prince's return had sparked a flurry of speculation.

An elderly eunuch approached the grieving King and bowed deeply. "Your Highness, the Crown Prince has arrived."

A murmur of surprise rippled through the assembly. "Indeed? The Crown Prince returns after twelve years," they said, their voices a blend of curiosity and reverence.

Jungkook entered the room, his face a mask of cold detachment. At twenty-one, he was a striking figure, but his eyes bore the weight of his grief. He walked past the gathered courtiers, his gaze fixed solely on his mother's still form.

The rain began to fall, a fitting lament for his sorrow. He reached out, brushing his mother's pale, cold cheek with trembling fingers. His heart ached with the sight of her dark circles and blue lips.

"M-mianhe, eomma," he murmured, his voice breaking. The old eunuch approached with a somber announcement.

"Jeoha, it is time for the final rites," the eunuch said.

Jungkook's face hardened. "I understand," he said through clenched teeth.

******

The court was assembled once more, the King seated on his throne, surrounded by his key advisors, including Minister Kim, Lee Min Hyuk, Soo Min—the second wife—and her brother, Park Byung Su. Jungkook took his place beside his father, the tension palpable.

The King's voice echoed through the hall. "Last night, we lost the Queen of Silla. It is clear that the kingdom needs a new Queen. Thus, I announce that Jeon Soo Min, my second wife, shall become the new Queen of Silla."

Jungkook's face remained a mask of restrained anger, his fists clenched at his sides.

"And as you all know," the King continued, "Jeon Jungkook, the Crown Prince of Silla and future King, has returned after twelve years. He shall now begin his service to the kingdom."

******

Jungkook entered his father's private quarters, his demeanor formal but his eyes sharp. "Anneong, Your Highness. Jeon Jungkook imnida," he greeted, bowing with precision.

The King chuckled. "Ah, my son, I know your name. Do you think you've forgotten that I am your father, not merely the King of Silla?"

Jungkook's lips curled into a smirk. "No, Your Highness. I remember everything, but I am not like you. I haven't forgotten the family I was left behind," he said, his tone icy. "You instructed me twelve years ago to call you 'Your Highness,' so I do as you asked."

"Jungkook!" the King's voice rose in frustration.

Jungkook maintained his calm composure. "I am here to inquire about the source of the poison that killed my mother," he said coldly.

The King sighed. "It was a maid. I have already dealt with her."

Jungkook's laughter was devoid of mirth. "Is that so? And have you investigated who commanded the maid to administer the poison? Do you not care who orchestrated this?"