#Crown Prince Hyo Myung

[kdram-chjh]

Kdrama: Love in the Moonlight / Moonlight Drawn By Clouds (2016)

Esto pasó en el 2016 😂🤣 #loveinthemoonlight #KimYooJung #parkbogum #kwakdongyeon #kdrama

Watch this video on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/cuEr7QPIJ9I

[animeniacss]

6 Years - Hoseok x Reader - Chapter 26 - How Do I Feel?

Synopsis: 6 years. That’s all it can take to take another look at someone and see that they have completely changed. You were once an eager 20-year-old, with your dreams all in view, and Jung Hoseok at your side to view them with you. However, after a break up the end of your junior year of college, everything seemed different. Now, you’re a recently divorced single mother of two, and your life is nowhere near what you thought it would be. However, after reuniting with Jung Hoseok, you may just be able to capture a little bit of that exciting youth you once knew so long ago.

Feat. BTS Members, Nayeon (TWICE), and Yuna (itzy) 

Genre: Romance, SingleMother!AU, Past Relationship, Drama, Some Depictions of Violence/Domestic Abuse

Length: approx. 4.6k words 

Chapter 26 - How Do I Feel? 

           When Hoseok turned to face you, you were unsure what to say. Slowly, you stood up onto your feet and tucked a strand of hair behind your ear.

           “Hobi, I-.”

           “Are you okay?” he asked, stepping closer to you. You glanced down. “What did he say to you?”

           “He was trying to make me listen to him. I was trying to get him to leave me alone but he wouldn’t.” You felt your head drop a bit, resting on his chest. Hoseok’s arms wrapped around you and he sighed. “I tried to hang up, I really did. I just couldn’t. I don’t know why; I don’t have an excuse. I’m sorry….” Hoseok smiled a bit.

           “Don’t be sorry. He shouldn’t have been calling you.”

           “But I should’ve hung up right away when I knew it was him on the other end…I just gave him what he wanted, I’m so stupid.”

           “You’re not stupid.” He assured, running a hand through your hair.

           “I am.” You pouted. Hoseok rested his chin on your head. “You should be mad at me this time.”

           “Well I told him I wouldn’t call the police this time, so the fault is really on me.” He said.

           “Are you really not going to call them?” You asked, looking up at him curiously. He sighed.

           “Do you think I should?” he asked curiously. You were silent for a moment. “Because he shouldn’t be calling you. He’s not even out on bail one day and he’s already violating the rules.” Eventually, you nodded, turning around and grabbing your purse. Hoseok watched you pull out Myung-Dae’s card, and held it out to him.

           “Will you call?” you asked curiously. “Or should I do it?” Hoseok smiled, taking the card from your hands.

           “I’ll do it.” He said, kissing your forehead. You smiled a bit, nodding as you watched Hoseok head outside the front door, closing it behind him. When he was gone, you turned back to the kitchen and looked at the opened cabinets with different foods inside. After a moment of starring, you let out an aggravated groan. Your heart was still racing at a crazy pace even after getting the phone taken away by Hoseok, and it didn’t seem to be stopping.

           “…I’m ordering.” You said, getting on your tiptoes to close the cabinets. You could faintly hear Hoseok outside. He was talking, but you couldn’t make out what he was saying. Honestly, you really didn’t want to know. “Myung-Dae is going to be so angry with me…” you mumbled under your breath. Deciding to try your best to push it from your mind, you made your way to the girl’s room. The sound of giggling and chanting could be heard, and you opened the door. “Girls, do you-?” Before you could finish, the sight of the room overtook your vision. Min Ja and Hyo Bin looked up from the toy chest. Hyo Bin was standing inside of it, both of the girls decorated in tons of different dress-up clothes. Hyo Bin had on a crown that was too big for her, and a blue princess dress. Min Ja wore a princess dress as well, this one was pink, as well as a cape and held a plastic sword in her hand. Whatever toys had to be removed in order to fit Hyo Bin were scattered all around the floor. You sighed, resting against the doorframe. “What on earth are you two doing?”

           “We’re playing princess. But Hyo Bin wants to be the princess and I want to be the princess. So, Hyo Bin is the princess and I’m the other heroic princess that saves her from the evil dragon!” Min Ja hurried to her bed, picking up the cute, wide-eyed pink unicorn doll that she had taped crudely colored wings onto. “See? Scaaaary.”

           “Min Ja, this room is an absolute mess.” You said, walking over and kneeling down in front of the toy box. Hyo Bin only offered you a big, toothy grin as she fixed the crown on her head. “Why does Hyo Bin have to be in the toy chest?”

           “…She fits.” Min Ja said simply. “And the closet is too dark.”

           “What about your homework?” you asked curiously, picking up a few of the dolls off the floor and tossing them back into the chest.

           “I finished it.” Min Ja said simply.

           “Mama, those are bad guys!” Hyo Bin said simply, pointing to the dolls as you tossed them in. “Mamaaa.”

           “Honey, we need to clean this room…” you said softly, and Hyo Bin whimpered a bit. You groaned. With every passing day, Hyo Bin was aging to be more and more like her older sister. You didn’t know if you liked that or not because their whines sounded almost exactly the same.

           “What’s going on in here?” you heard a voice hum from behind you. Glancing over at the door, you saw Hoseok looking around the room. “Are you guys playing a game?”

           “Yeah! Princess and heroic princess and the evil dragon!” Min Ja said simply, pointing to the unicorn. “Do you want to play, Mr. Hobi?” Hoseok walked in, sitting down beside you.

           “Of course, I do!” He said happily. “What should I be?”

           “Hmmmm…you can be the evil dragon owner!” Min Ja held up the unicorn and tossed it at him. He caught it easily, and stood up, holding it in his hands.

           “Alright then.” Coughing into his hands, he mentally prepared himself. After a moment, he scrunched up his nose and furrowed his brows, trying his best to make a scary and intimidating face. It made Min Ja absolutely lose her mind, and she doubled over laughing. You couldn’t help but chuckle either. “Halt!” He stuck his hand out in Min Ja’s direction. “I’ll never let you rescue the princess. She’s mine!”

           “No way!” Min Ja giggled, hurrying up to him. She grabbed hold of his hand and tried with all of her might to yank him down to the floor. “I want to rescue her!” Hoseok dropped to his knees, still trying to keep the intimidating face as best as he could despite the smile that was trying to fight its way onto his face.

           “Take this!” Hoseok shouted, lifting up a few of the scattered dolls and tossing them in Min Ja’s direction. She covered herself as she began to giggle. “My army of dolls! Ahahaha!”        

           “Oh my God…” You shook your head in amusement, glancing at Hyo Bin. She was watching the two intensely as if she actually were a princess watching her hero fight for her life. It was kind of hilarious. You reached out and rubbed her back as you continued to watch. Min Ja ran over again, pretending to confused Hoseok by running back and forth. When he got dizzy, she ran behind him and jumped onto his back, toppling him to the floor.

           “Ooof. Auuuugh, I’ve been vested….” He groaned, dropping his head in defeat. You watched as Min Ja giggled, sitting on his back for a few moments. Glancing at Hyo Bin, you scooped her up into your arms. When she looked in your direction, you lifted a finger to your lips and told her to stay silent. She copied you, smiling as well. Standing up, you tried to tiptoe away. However, Min Ja was a sharp girl. She let out a very dramatic gasp.

           “THE EVIL WITCH IS TAKING THE PRINCESS!” She screamed. Hoseok looked up.

           “WITCH!?” You gasped for a moment. Hoseok quickly got up, scooping Min Ja into his arms.

“We need to get her, Mr. Hobi! You have to be good now!”

           “Okay!” He nodded. Next thing you knew, you were jogging down the little hallway, Hoseok and Min Ja shouting behind you as they attempted to chase you. Hyo Bin was shouting too, and you were praying the neighbors had a good sense of humor. As you hurried into the kitchen, you set Hyo Bin down and sat beside her, sprawling out on the floor.

           “You win.” You said simply. “You win, you win.” Hoseok and Min Ja high-fived happily as Hyo Bin hurried up to them. “Your prize is that you get to pick what we order in.”

           “BARBECUE!” Min Ja shouted. “I want barbecue!” You glanced at Hoseok, who nodded.

           “Sounds good to me.” He said. You nodded, and Hoseok handed you your phone so you could make the call. As you waited for the person on the other end, Hoseok led the girls back into their bedroom so that they could continue to play until the food arrived. You decided to just rest on the couch, covering your face with your hands as you listened to the ruckus going on in the other room.

           When the food arrived, you paid the lovely teenager for making the journey, before bringing the bags of barbecue into the kitchen. You didn’t even have time to call out to them, by the time the food hit the table, footsteps came rushing in your direction, the clattering of chairs making you look up. Hoseok set Hyo Bin in her little seat, and Min Ja hopped up as well. The girls were still in their dress-up clothes, and Hoseok somehow had a crown on his head, resting lopsided.

           “…I hope your room is clean, young lady.” You said sternly as you set the main bowl of chicken in the middle of the table. Min Ja looked over at Hoseok, who waved his hand.

           “We’ll clean it after we eat, okay?” He assured. Min Ja nodded in agreement.

           “Yeah, after we eat, Mommy.” Finally taking a seat, you nodded.

           “Alright fine.” You said. Everyone took their plates and utensils, thank you for the meal as everyone began to dig in. Min Ja was sharing all the interesting things that had happened in their princess rescues princess game. Hosoek apparently died, but came up as a good prince who wanted to help defeat the dragon. Hyo Bin turned out to bed a magical fairy princess. Aliens were somehow involved. You had no idea what was going on, but Min Ja’s eyes were glowing as she chatted about it. The sight made you feel so at ease.

------------------------------------

           “What did Myung-Dae say?” you asked curiously, tossing your clothes into the bedside hamper. Hoseok was just getting out of the shower, shaking his hair out with a towel as you finished putting on your pajamas. Hoseok and you had read the girls to sleep only minutes ago, while you finished tossing the last of the dolls into the toy chest, and tossed the girl's barbecue stained dress-up clothes in the laundry room for tomorrow’s load. “I didn’t want to know at first, but now I do.” Hoseok smiled as he sat on the end of the bed, tossing the towel to the side.

           “I told him Weong-Bin called and he said that he would talk to him and bring him in. I’m not sure if he was going to do it tonight, it sounded like he was getting ready to go home. But he also said that if this does happen again, just to immediately hang up and call him. Or me, if I’m not home.”

           “I figured he would say that.” You chuckled a bit. Hoseok smiled, heading over to the dresser and grabbing a tee-shirt to toss on. He stood by the mirror, running a brush through his damp hair. “But I know that now. I still feel silly I didn’t do it the first time.”

           “Don’t beat yourself up over it, that’s exactly what he wants.” Hoseok assured. “Weong-Bin will most likely be in jail until the trial, so there’s no need to worry about it anymore.”

           “But…what if he’s found not guilty and released?” you asked, looking over at him. “Then nothing will change, and he’ll only be angrier… I don’t think I’ll be able to handle it.”

           “I don’t think he will. They have evidence of the bruises, and Min Ja even said she’s heard him hit you.”

           “…I don’t feel right putting her through all of this, either.” You said softly.

           “Nobody wants to put a five-year-old on the spot to put down her own father. But she’s a strong girl. She’ll be just fine.” Hoseok assured. You nodded, and Hoseok crawled across the bed, wrapping his arms around you and pulling you into his arms. You chuckled, nuzzling into his embrace. “You’ll be okay too.” He assured.

           Just as the two of you were finally ready to turn in for the night, you heard a noise at your bedroom door. Glancing over, you saw Min Ja standing in the doorway, wearing her little nightgown and a pair of pink slippers. Her hair was a bit messy, but it was clear that she had not fallen into a deep sleep yet.

           “Min Ja…” you hummed, sitting up. “What’s wrong? Are you feeling okay?”

           “I heard you talking about Daddy…” she said softly. She walked over to your bed, and you quickly scooped her up into your arms. She wrapped them around you. “People go to jail…when they do bad things…” she said softly.

           “That’s right sweetie…” you said softly.

           “Is it because Daddy hit you all the time?” She asked softly. You let out a shaky breath, and Min Ja didn’t really need to hear much else about it. “He told me that he stopped making bad mistakes. He lied…” In hopes of calming her down, you ran a hand through her hair. “Is Daddy mad at me too?” You glanced down at her.

           “Why would he be mad at you?” you asked curiously.

           “He told me not to tell anybody about our secret talks. I drew lots of pictures, but I promise I didn’t tell anyone.” You could see her eyes get a bit wet. “I don’t want him to be mad at me, Mommy…” You sighed softly.

           “Min Ja, you did the right thing, telling your teacher how you felt through your pictures. Do you understand that?”

           “But Daddy thinks I told them about our secret talks.” You glanced at Hoseok, who sat at the end of the bed, watching silently. “I know Daddy made lots of mistakes. But I don’t want him to go to jail. Then I’ll never see him again…” you couldn’t help but feel bad that Min Ja felt this way, but she was simply to young to fully understand. You didn’t think that you had to strength to really try and explain anything to her now. What if it only made things worse?

           How is she going to be able to testify if this is how she feels? You thought to yourself. You knew you wouldn’t be enough, Min Ja’s viewing of these awful moments made it much more than just the typical “He said – She said” among two bitter divorcees. “Min Ja…” you said softly. She looked up at you. “Daddy has made lots of mistakes. He needs to understand that what he did was wrong. He shouldn’t ever hit anyone, and he shouldn’t have made you feel so sad. Daddy needs lots of help so that he can be a better person.” Min Ja still looked a bit confused. “I know you’re probably really confused, and that’s okay. It’s okay to be overwhelmed.”

           “What does “overwhelm” mean?” she asked curiously.

           “It means that you are so confused, that it makes your head hurt a lot. And you don’t know what to do to make it feel better. It can be scary sometimes.”

           “…Are you overwhelmed too?” she asked softly. You nodded, smiling a bit. Min Ja reached up to your hair, patting it like you were doing to her. It made your shoulders relax, and you rested your head on her forehead. “Am I not allowed to love Daddy?” she asked, after a moment of silence. You quickly looked her in the eyes.

           “You can love your Daddy, okay?” You said softly. “I’ll never, ever stop you or your sister from loving your Daddy.” You knew this may change as the girls grew up, and learned the full extent of everything that had gone on. However, for now, you would only be sinking to Weong-Bin’s level if you told your girls how to feel about him. Min Ja nodded.

           “Okay, because I love Daddy lots and lots. But…if he moved in again, he’d make you sad. I don’t want him to make you sad, Mommy…” You smiled a bit. “Plus, he isn’t good at playing games with Hyo Bin and me. Mr. Hobi is.” Hoseok chuckled, laying back on the bed as Min Ja looked over him. “He played the evil dragon and the good prince. That’s hard.”

           “It was.” Hoseok admitted. “Do you think I should be an actor, Min Ja?”

           “Mhm.” She nodded happily. You smiled, holding Min Ja close to you as she gave you a tight hug. “I love you, Mommy…”

           “I love you too…” You said softly, kissing her forehead. “But it’s time to go to bed now, okay?” Min Ja pouted.

           “I wanna stay with you…” she begged, holding onto your shirt. Glancing up at Hoseok, he shrugged.

           “I don’t mind. The bed is big enough.” You chuckled, watching as Hoseok crawled into bed. Min Ja followed him, as he opened up a bit of the sheet to allow her to crawl underneath. “Alright, comfy?” he asked, watching as she snuggled into the sheets. When she nodded, Hoseok smiled as he too went under the covers. You slid in beside them but didn’t fully lie down. You sat up, looking down at the two of them. Hoseok rolled over and turned off the lamp, showering the room in darkness. “Alright, time for bed, Min Ja.” He said.

           “Kay…” she said. You could see their shadows shifting a bit, Min Ja rolling over to face you, her tiny hand reaching out for yours. You quickly offered the hand to her and gave it a little squeeze.

           “I’ll be right back.” You said softly, kissing her hand as you slid out of bed. You walked out the room, and into the kitchen, turning on the small light above the dining table. Taking a seat, you ran a hand through your hair before resting your head on the table.

           You just couldn’t wait for this all to be over.

------------------------------

           That weekend was a more stressful one for you. You had woken up, made some breakfast, and gotten yourself ready much earlier than you had planned. It was the day that you and Min Ja were going to start preparing for the trial, and even though your entire family and Hobi stressed you get as much sleep as you could, you found yourself unable to, even with Hoseok offering you warm milk and rubbing your back in attempts to calm you down. You were just so nervous; you couldn’t stand it. So, you had been up since almost 5 a.m., trying to find a nice outfit for both you and Min Ja to wear, pacing the living room quietly as you thought about what the process was like. It was very different than the divorce court, at least, you felt it would be.

           “You’re already awake?” Hobi asked, staggering into the living room. He had just woken up and noticed that you weren’t in bed beside him. “It’s like 5 a.m. You don’t have to meet the prosecutor for another 3 hours.”

           “I know.” You said.

           “…Have you even slept?” he asked.

           “No, I haven’t.” you said. “I tried, but I probably only dozed off in intervals of 15 minutes.” You motioned to the kitchen. “I have coffee brewing. Want some?” Hoseok nodded, smiling as you walked into the kitchen, taking the coffee pot and pouring two cups of coffee. Once they were mixed and perfect, you passed Hoseok his white cup with a smiling sun on it. You found comfort with him on the couch, instinctively snuggling up close to him. He smiled as you both drank your coffee, the warm liquid coursing your body and making you both begin to fully wake up. “What are your plans today with Hyo Bin?”

           “Well since it’s my day off, I think I’m just going to take her to the park, maybe grab some lunch.” He shrugged. “Come home and take a nap because I’ll be exhausted from that alone.” You giggled a bit, nodding.

           “Oh, for sure.” You said. “Thanks again for watching her.” Hoseok shrugged, smiling happily. You rested your head on his shoulder. “…I know I’m practicing so that I’m not this nervous during the actual trial, but I’m really nervous.”

           “You’ll do just fine.” He said. “Tell me all about it when you get home, okay?” you nodded a bit as Hoseok kissed your forehead. The two of you remained on the couch for a little while, drinking your coffee, and just taking some time to relax. Hoseok glanced down a few times, seeing that your eyes were closed, and you were breathing calmly. He set his coffee cup down as carefully as he could, not wanting to make you stir now that you were finally still. After succeeding, he reached out and ran a hand through your hair, which only made you relax more. As he watched you, he thought back to the conversation he had with Yoongi and Namjoon.

           He knew that Yoongi was just trying to lighten the mood by mentioning the idea of marriage, but even if that were the case, Hoseok found himself still thinking about it constantly. He had known since he first met you that he wanted to marry you, and even after reuniting with you, and especially after you both started dating again, those thoughts only got stronger. He wasn’t sure when the right time would be, or if there would ever really be a good time. However, he did know that he was going to put a ring on your finger one day, even before Yoongi made his little joke.

           After allowing you to sleep just a little bit more, Hoseok got you up and the both of you went to get the girls ready for the day. You dressed them, while Hoseok threw on some casual clothes and began to make a quick breakfast for everyone. The girls were still sleepy, so luckily, they were not putting up much of a fight about what clothes they needed to wear. With the girls dressed and well-fed, and both you and Hoseok ready to go, you each took the child that you were responsible for and headed out the door.

           “Hyo Bin, be good for Mr. Hobi, okay?” You said to your daughter as she waved him Mr. Hobi’s arms.

           “Okay, Mama.” She said happily. “I’ll be good.” You kissed her forehead.

           “Call if you need anything, okay?” Hoseok said to you, before kissing your cheek. You nodded.

           “I will, but we’ll be alright. Right, Min Ja?” you glanced down at your daughter, who was holding your hand tightly.

           “Mhm!” She grinned. “Bye, Mr. Hobi! Bye, Hyo Bin!” Hyo Bin waved to her sister as you and Hoseok began leading the girls down opposite ends of the street. When Hoseok was far enough away, he turned to see how far you had gotten. You were almost down the street, waiting for the light to change and allow you to cross. That’s when he looked at Hyo Bin.

           “Hyo Bin. I wanna buy Mommy a pretty ring. Will you help me?” He asked. Hyo Bin’s eyes sparkled, and she nodded. “Really? Okay, but you can’t tell Mommy, okay? It’s a big surprise. Like a birthday.”

           “Like a birthday, okay.” Hyo Bin put a finger to her lips and let out a long “Shhhhhhhh”. Hoseok laughed a bit and headed down the street with her, a slight spring now in his step.

--------------------------

           “HEY! I DON’T DESERVE TO BE IN HERE!” Weong-Bin shouted as he was dragged down the hallway by the police officer. “What if they were lying!? Check my phone, I never called that lying bi-.”

“Alright, whatever.” The cop scoffed, shoving him into a cell. Weong-Bin looked around, seeing only one other person in the room. The man was probably about his age, a bit heavier, with a full head of black hair tied up in a small ponytail. Weong-Bin tried to shout at the policeman as he was leaving but to no avail. He was completely ignored from this point on. “HEY! I want my lawyer here NOW!”

“No use yelling.” The man in the cell said, and Weong-Bin looked over. “Hey, nice to meet you. Guess we’re roomies now.” He smirked. Weong-Bin sighed, walking over to the open bed and sitting down on it, groaning. “No greeting?” He asked. No response. “Nothing?” Still, no response from Weong-Bin. “…Alright.” The man shrugged, laying back down in his bed.

That was two days ago, and now Weong-Bin was stuck in a jail cell, bitter and frustrated. Why did Hoseok have to come home at that specific time? What the hell gave him the right to speak to him that way? Just thinking about it made him even more furious.

           “Hey.” He heard a voice and looked over to it. It was the same guy, who eventually said his name was In-Ho, and he was in jail for assaulting someone in a bar while he was drunk. To this day, he still had no idea who he had attacked, but he knew for a fact he almost killed the guy. Weong-Bin never asked him this, but In-Ho was sure to share it. “…Hey!”

           “What?” Weong-Bin scoffed.

           “What’s got you so mad?”

           “Why the fuck do you care?”

           “We’re roommates. Means we’re basically friends.”

           “I’m not planning to befriend criminals.”

           “Look in the mirror. I know you’re in here for slapping your wife around.” He snickered. Weong-Bin scoffed.

“It’s not like that. Her boyfriend is filling her head with lies and exaggerations.”

“Lemme guess, a new boyfriend is making this tougher?” In-Ho asked curiously.

           “Unbelievably.” He scoffed. “I’m sick and tired of the scumbag thinking he can just come back into the picture and take what’s mine. He didn’t make my girls, he’s not their father. And he sure as hell didn’t marry my wife and make her into the woman she is today. I did all that, my family is my pride. He’s taking it away and I can’t handle it.”

           “Oooooh.” The man sat upon his bed. “So, you’re a fucking narcissistic control freak, huh?”

           “What?” he glared, eyes narrowing in anger. The man let out a loud belly laugh now, grinning a bit.

           “You heard me.” He leaned forward, looking at Weong-Bin. “And it seems he’s the reason you’re back in jail instead of on bail, huh?”

           “Damn right.” He scoffed. “I hate him.”

           “It sounds like you should do something about it.”  Weong-Bin blinked. “You have any connections on the outside you can call?”

           “…I have a few.”

           “Anyone desperate enough to do something drastic for a few extra bucks?” Weong-Bin raised an eyebrow, staring at the man without saying a word. The man smirked a bit, leaning back.

           “What do you mean?” Weong-Bin asked curiously.

           “Just answer my question first.”

           “I know a few people who got let go in my company this past quarter due to budget cuts. But why are you asking?” In-Hoe grinned.

           “How much money does this mean that they lose?”

           “A lot. My company is very high up and powerful, we make high salaries every year.”

           “So, someone who got fired, probably won’t be able to pay their bills and support their families huh?”

           “…Yeah?” In-Ho was now silent, resting his chin in his hand. It looked as if he was thinking about what he was going to say next.

           “So, which one of these guys do you think is most likely to kill if it means getting some money?”  

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[kpopotd2]

September Wrap Up

Wow, guys. It’s September. And that means the Fall comeback rush! We hope all your favorite groups are making comebacks soon, and if not, keep hope because there are still a few months left in 2019! 

We’ve been going strong, getting things ready for my next announcement-- WE ARE STARTING A PODCAST! The first episode will be up on October 6 with a second episode following shortly (release dates for subsequent episodes will be announced soon). The three of us have been talking about this since at least March, and we are happy to report that we are getting closer to the release! 

Our aim is to release two episodes a month, the first episode will follow a looser format where we talk about a lighthearted topic, while the second episode will be more informative. In this first episode we will talk about the different ways the three of us got into KPOP! We will be on SoundCloud and eventually Spotify and iTunes. More information and links will be posted soon!

In lesser but still exciting news, we now have a Spotify! We will be putting up personally curated playlists on there so please check it out and follow us there as well!

We hope you guys will enjoy it, and if you have any topics you want us to cover let us know!

Happy Fall!

~JR, Min, and Onyx

NEWS:

September 28, 2009: President Lee Myung Bak replaces Prime Minister Han Seung-soo with Chung Un-chan. 

September 2, 2010: Typhoon Kompasu starts moving towards South Korea. September 25, 2010: During the 2010 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, South Korea won their first FIFA World Cup title. September 29, 2010: Kim Jong-il’s son, Kim Jong-un, is revealed to the world, made a general, and appointed to head of the Worker’s Party.

September 15, 2011: A blackout engulfs the all of South Korea.   September 10-17, 2012: Typhoon Sanba makes landfall in South Korea after hitting Okinawa, Japan.

September 3, 2014: On their way back from Daegu, the Ladies’ Code members were involved in a car accident which lead to the deaths of members Eunbi and eventually RiSe.

September 19, 2014: The Asian Games begin in Incheon, South Korea.

September 6, 2015: The Dolgorae, a submarine, sinks near Chuja Island with 10 people dead, eight missing, and three surviving.

Gaon Album Chart - Album  of the Month 2010-2015:

2010: To Anyone by 2NE1

2011: In Heaven by JYJ

2012: One of A Kind by G-Dragon

2013: Coup d’Etat by G-Dragon  

2014: Mamacita by Super Junior

2015: Magic by Super Junior

DRAMAS:

September 2009: High Kick Through the Roof (This 126 episode long family drama (which is also the second in the High Kick trilogy) boasted countless cameos and popular OSTs. It starred Choi Daniel, Hwang Jung Eum, Yoon Si Yoon, and Shin Se Kyung. It also won various awards at multiple awards shows.) September 2009: Smile, You (This show stars Lee Min Jung and Jung Kyung Ho-- this was the first lead roles for both actors. This was the first K-drama to be remade in India, as well as eventually receiving a remake in Turkey.)

September 2010: The Fugitive: Plan B (This action drama stars Rain and Lee Na Young. It averaged over 10% viewership ratings.)  September 2010: Playful Kiss (This rom-com stars Jung So Min and SS501 member Kim Hyun Joong. This is the first Korean adaptation of the Japanese manga of the same name. Following the show’s conclusion, a mini web-series was released chronicling the main characters’ married life.) 

September 2011: Poseidon (This action drama stars Super Junior’s Choi Siwon and actress Lee Si Young. Originally, Shinhwa’s Eric Mun and actress Kim Ok Bin were slotted to be the leads, but following a military accident they left the project and it was moved from SBS to KBS.)  September 2011: High Kick: Revenge of the Short Legged (This is the third season in the High Kick trilogy, and stars former g.o.d. Member Yoon Kye Sang, Lee Jong Suk, f(x) member Krystal, and Kim Ji Won among many others.) 

September 2012: The Third Hospital (This medical drama stars Kim Seung Woo, Oh Ji Ho, Kim Min Jung and Girl’s Generation member Choi Soo Young. It was broadcast internationally in Algeria, Malaysia, and the Philippines.)  September 2013: Secret Love (This medical drama stars Hwang Jung Eum, Ji Sung, and Lee Da Hee. The viewership ratings averaged over 10%, and it won multiple awards and was broadcast internationally in three other countries.) 

September 2014: My Spring Days (This drama stars Kam Woo Sung and Girl’s Generation member Choi Soo Young. It beat out the two dramas that aired on the same day, SBS’s My Lovely Girl and KBS2′s Iron Man, with viewership ratings of about 10%.) September 2014: My Lovely Girl/She’s So Lovable (This show stars Rain, f(x) member Krystal, and INFINITE member L (with former INFINITE member Hoya in a supporting role). The OSTs boast Loco, Mamamoo, Krystal, Fiestar, and more.) 

September 2015: She Was Pretty (This rom-com stars Park Seo Joon, Hwang Jung Eun, Goo Joon Hee, and Super Junior member Choi Siwon. It reunites Park Seo Joon and Hwang Jung Eum from the early 2015 drama Kill Me, Heal Me. It averaged over 10% viewership ratings, and its OST’s featured Kihyun of Monsta X, Soyou formerly of Sistar, Siwon, and Park Seo Joon. It earned multiple awards at various award shows, and eventually received four remakes, including one in Turkey.)  September 2015: D-Day (This disaster drama stars Kim Young Kwang, Jung So Min, Ha Seok Jin, and INFINITE member Sungyeol. It was broadcast in four other countries.)  

FILMS:

September 9, 2009: The Case of Itaewon Homicide (This movie was based on the true story of the Itaewon Murder Case in which a Korean college student was found murdered. It stars Jung Jin Young and Jang Geun Suk. Following the movie release, interest in the case was reignited and an appeal to the courts was made. The film had over 500,000 cinema admissions.)  September 16, 2010: Cyrano Agency (This witty comedy stars Uhm Tae Woong and Park Shin Hye. The movie was twenty years in the making before finally going into production under Myung Films. Despite it’s low budget it made a slow rise to over 2.5 million admissions. In 2013, a drama spin off called Dating Agency: Cyrano aired.) September 16, 2010: A Better Tomorrow (This film is a remake of the ‘86 Hong Kong movie of the same name. It brought in over 1.5 million admissions, making over $10 million.) 

September 8, 2011: The Day He Arrives (This indie film is fully black and white, and  stars singer Yoo Jun Sang. It gained over 40,000 admissions and made around $300,000 at the box office.)  September 22, 2011: The Crucible/Silenced (This film, starring Gong Yoo, is based on a true story regarding the continuous sexual assault on the students at a school for the hearing impaired. There was a public outcry following the movie’s release because the perpetrators got away without punishment.) 

September 13, 2012: Masquerade (This film stars Lee Byung Hun, Ryu Seung Ryong, and Han Hyo Joo. It brought in over 12 million admissions, making it the ninth highest grossing movie in Korean cinema history. It did incredibly well with critics and won many awards at multiple award shows.)  September 11, 2013: The Face Reader (This period movie stars Song Kang Ho, Lee Jong Suk, and Jo Jung Suk. It won a handful of awards at various award shows.)  September 3, 2014: My Brilliant Life (This movie stars Song Hye Kyo and Gang Dong Won. It is based on the 2013 novel of the same name by author Kim Ae Ran. It did very well at the box office with over 1.5 million admissions and made about $10 million.) 

September 16, 2015: The Throne (This period film stars Song Kang Ho, Yoo Ah In, and Moon Geun Young. It is based on the true story of the life of Crown Prince Sado, his life and relationship with his father King Yeongjo. It won a handful of awards at various award shows.)  September 24, 2015: Right Now, Wrong Then (This movie stars Jung Jae Young and Kim Min Hee. It has a Rotten Tomatoes score 93% and 81 out of 100 on Metacritic. It won various awards including the Golden Leopard from 68th Locarno International Film Festival.)

SAD STUFF:

September 1, 2009: Actress Jang Jin-young passes away from stomach cancer. 

September 3, 2014: Ladies’ Code member Go Eun-bi, 21, passes away immediately following a car accident.  September 7, 2014: Ladies’ Code member Kwon Rise, 23, passes away after multiple surgeries due to injuries from the same car accident.

TOP POST OF THE MONTH:

Jonghyun with End of a Day

-A Tribute To EunBi and RiSe-

EunBi and RiSe debuted in Ladies’ Code as a part of the original five-member lineup in 2013. EunBi was known for her sweet personality and sense of humor. RiSe was a humble beauty queen with a heart of gold. Together, these two were known for their close friendship. After EunBi and RiSe’s passing, the fans and remaining members of the group examined Ladies’ Code’s discography under a different lens, and the remaining members came to earn quite a bit of respect for how they handled their loss. EunBi and RiSe are greatly missed by fans who still celebrate their birthdays every year.

[gwynne-fics]

Becoming Royals

another walk

The King stopped caring what Rachel was doing about two weeks after Young-Do left. She knew, because she spoke up in court twice and he didn’t try to silence her. He was gray around the mouth and a sallow complexion defined his face. Court was long and laborious most of those days.

The worst was when he was lucid. His mind was sharp but his body weak. He glared at her more but she ignored him and asked questions of the ministers anyway, especially if she felt they were taking advantage of the king’s clouded moments for their own gain.

King Dong-Wook noticed and he watched her.

Rachel had read all the books Mother recommended and decided it was time to do one, very simple thing.

Take a walk.

Go Nam-Il was unreadable when she explained that she wanted to start taking weekly walks into the city, different routes each time, to just be visible now that it was spring and the weather was good.

“Give me two days to see how secure I can make these routes,” he said. “Prince Myung-Soo believes there is a credible threat in the city. I understand what you want but I have to take more into consideration. You are no longer a casual entity, princess.”

“Thank you for not dismissing my desire out of hand,” Rachel bowed to him. Nam-Il just looked very uncomfortable at her gratitude. “It is clear how you tried to raise the princes into good men. In some ways, you are a better father to them than the king. I understand, that if you loved Young-Do any less, you would’ve gone with him anyway.”

“Those are very dangerous words, princess. I am a man who loves men. It would be impossible for me to be anyone’s blood father.”

Rachel looked away and murmured, “I have seen you with the queens. You may not be attracted to women the way most men are but I don’t think that means you love them any less. I won’t bring this up again. It was just important to me to tell you where exactly my respect for you comes from.”

“Thank you, princess. I will try to make this maneuver possible for you. Perhaps, if you make it an outing for the ladies of the court, I can justify a larger contingent of guards.”

“I will bring it up with the queens today.” Nam-Il escorted her to Queen Kyung-Ran’s garden and she tried to be surreptitious about her desire to build a public presence. “My mother, when she was pregnant with Min-Ki, still made an effort to tour around our small town. Lady Uhm’s granddaughter is getting married soon and she expressed an interest in having a school for orphans and low class children in her future husband’s province. I would like to take her and Lady Da-Kyung with me. And of course, anyone else who wishes to join us, is welcome.”

Queen Jae-Kyung brightened. “I think that is a marvelous idea, Princess Rachel.” She adorably poked Queen Kyung-Ran in the side. “We need an outing. Besides, both of us are going to be grandmothers soon.”

“What does that have to do with an outing?” Queen Kyung-Ran just looked amused.

“Shopping!” It was always fun to see the queens get playful with each other. Jae-Kyung started making silly faces and Kyung-Ran attempted not to laugh. Rachel was grateful. This would help get her what she wanted. “Please? Please?”

“I will speak with Nam-Il about arranging a guard but, yes, we will go.”

Rachel smiled and thanked Queen Kyung-Ran magnanimously. Then she went to Da-Kyung’s rooms and prepared herself for the hostility of it. Hyo-Shin glanced down at her but kept his concern to himself as they were announced. There was a great deal of sarcasm when Da-Kyung went to her knees to welcome her.

“I don’t require this.”

“Which is why I do it.” She kept her eyes on the ground. “What do you want, princess?”

“In two days I am going for a walk with the ladies of the court through the day market and to check in on my school. You will join me then and you will join me tomorrow at the women’s court. They need to get used to you.”

“I would rather they forget I exist.” Rachel would rather that, too, but she didn’t have the luxury of letting Da-Kyung steep in her bitterness.

“I don’t care what you want,” is what she said instead. “I have let you mourn for three weeks, I have not pushed the queens to abort your unborn child. You are the crown prince’s first concubine. You need to act like it.”

“And if I refuse?”

“Da-Kyung,” she said wearily. “I don’t want to play these games with you. I don’t want to be your friend. I’m not under any illusion that we can be like the queens. Please don’t force me to do something we both will hate and regret. You will come with me when I call for you. Refusing will only be embarrassing for you.”

“I’m not afraid of losing face.”

“Neither am I.” Rachel turned around and then surreptitiously took a deep breath. “I am wearing lavender tomorrow. Pick something else.” 

She tried not to smirk the next day when Da-Kyung wore lavender to the queens’ court with her. Rachel just took her hand and let the other women exclaim how lovely they looked together. Rachel sweetly praised her and hoped they could match more often.

The next day, Da-Kyung was wiser. She wore the opposite colors of Rachel.

[kjtamuser]

My Thoughts — My Sassy Girl — Episode 8

At the end of my recaps I have a “My Thoughts” section where I summarize my opinions. For shows that I’m not writing detailed watch-n-blog recaps, I’m writing a “thought-cap.” I just finished the next episode of My Sassy Girl.  

Nutshell Summary: Princess Hye impresses the Crown Prince of the Qing empire. He is ready to marry the Princess. Poor Kyun Woo must act as the interpreter for the Crown Prince’s visit. When the Crown Prince murmurs kindness Kyun Woo must echo his words. The Princess is sad knowing she’ll have to leave her home to ensure her brother’s place as heir apparent. The episode ends with the Crown Prince telling Princess Hye that he wants to spend the rest of his life with her. Kyun Woo can’t bear to translate the words he wants to speak for himself. Evil Minister Jung Ki Joon got a rude surprise when his spoiled daughter declared she wanted to marry Kyun Woo.

My Thoughts

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Longing for a relationship that could never be and sadness about the Princess’s likely marriage was the focus.  Princess Hye was sad knowing she’s have to leave her brother, who was equally upset. Kyun Woo was sad knowing the woman he’s come to care about will never be his. The Princess sadly remember moments of fun with Kyun Woo, knowing they’ll never have moments like that again.

Kyun Woo (Joo Won) had to watch the Crown Prince fall for the Princess. Kyun Woo’s sadness, irritation, resignation, and frustration were all evident. He can’t believe his initial loathing for the Princess has blossomed into something he cannot express. He can’t believe he has to watch another man woo the woman he wants. This episode “three is a crowd” was a correct statement. He can’t believe the evil Minister Jung’s daughter willfully misunderstands his “not gonna happen” response about a relationship with her. He caught the Crown Prince’s statement that he was invited to come, so he knows evil Minister Jung forced this to happen. What can he do? He knows that the Princess is doing this for her brother. What can he say to stop her? Didn’t you love the archery moment when both men vied for the Princess?

Princess Hye Myung (Oh Yeon Seo) wants to refuse the Crown Prince but can’t for her brother’s sake. At least the Crown Prince doesn’t appear anything other than a nice guy. She’s stuck, unable to tell her brother that she’s doing this all for his future. She cleverly planted a fake letter from Master Min that the Queen, under orders from Minister Jung, secured and brought to Minister Jung. Her flashbacks of times with Kyun Woo were poignant. Both Yeon Seo and Joo Won brought the term “star crossed lovers” to mind. And they haven’t been a couple yet!

New writer Yoon Hyo Je delivered an episode that forced our couple apart while they were physically together. Kyung Woo is in a difficult spot, but the Princess is caught between a rock and a hard space.

Ranking the episodes (on a scale from 1-10) had me rank this episode as very good. My episode ranking chart is below.

The third song of the OST has been released. Check out “Because I Love You” by Gummy.

My Sassy Girl – Episode 9 My Thoughts -- My Sassy Girl -- Episode 8 At the end of my recaps I have a "My Thoughts" section where I summarize my opinions.

[gwynne-fics]

eugenecea replied to your post “Becoming Royals bad games Young-Do was clingy after everyone left them...”

Aww jealous Yd is so cute. In QR he stole Rachel from Hyoshin but they were engaged and hs-yd are not friends or ex-lover. He is really capable? Gah i'm now obsessed of idea evil prince steal his love. Can i request it<3

*whispers* I keep thinking about this because it sounds really fun. I’ll have to think about it a little more ^^;;

wei50-blog replied to your post “Becoming Royals a walk Eun-Sang was not doing well with her pregnancy...”

It’s a good thing Rachel brought Hee-Nam to take care of Eun-Sang! Hope baby Eun-Chae will be ok! Also very happy mother and daughter finally get a chance to know each other and spend time together. Hee-Nam is wise not to trust noblemen. Eun-Sang’s father wanted Hee-Nam… Even if Hyo-Shin loves Eun-Sang and is committed to her, too many things can go wrong, and he could be prevented from being with her as he desires. (it’s all up to a certain writer) :D

>.> :D :D :D

Aw, Rachel misses her own mother! She was so close to her and is going to face even harder times ahead. Hope Myung-Soo can come through and get the letter delivered quickly. Another possible face to face at Grandfather Lee’s estate? Imagine it would be harder now because Rachel is pregnant and closely watched. And siege tactics again… hmmm…. (King must really not be doing well to have Kyung-Ran run the court, bc would not want to show weakness if he can help it)

The King’s health is in serious decline >.>

Good, Rachel knows there is someone who wanted (still does?) Da-Kyung! And he is not with the traitors. Yes, so many things in the way… (Gwynne, I mean, Rachel is going to make her world come true!) Ah, so the baby Da-Kyung is carrying now is not Won’s. Glad to know she had healed enough to get pregnant again… She does seem to be a loving mother to her twins. Can see how hard this is for Rachel.

Da-Kyung doesn’t know who the father of her baby is because she had sex with at least two different men around the same time. Girl is living it up and not sacrificing her happiness just because her husband is a traitor >.>

What is Rachel trying to do with Da-Kyung? Establish a cordial relationship? Assess what type and how big a threat Da-Kyung presents, if any? Gain her confidence? Damage control in palace politics, or in other ways? If Young-Do has to pretend Da-Kyung’s baby is his, does it affect Min-Jae? Because Rachel is the crown princess and Da-Kyung is a concubine there is a precedence?

Rachel is unsure what she’s trying to do at the moment. She knows she needs a relationship with Da-Kyung so she can potentially use it in the future. She just doesn’t know what for or why.

If Young-Do has to pretend this baby is his, it won’t affect Min-Jae. Rachel is close to six months into her pregnancy and Da-Kyung is only three. Min-Jae will be older. Also, Young-Do has the power to pick his heir once he’s king. Rachel believes he would pick his own son over a fake concubine.

[gwynne-fics]

Becoming Royals

concubine

The King does not remember banishing you from his sight. He doesn’t remember the report he intercepted. Mother’s missive just made him tired. You can triumphantly report this to the court upon your return. Hurry back before he remembers.

The journey back to the palace took longer than he anticipated because Da-Kyung kept trying to kill herself. He finally had to do the last thing he wanted--stick her on his horse with him and restrain her himself.

“You don’t care about your children at all? They need you.”

She snorted and spat at him. “They are children of a traitor in this country. They will grow up hated and reviled. It is better they die young than face that. They are hostages. My family are warriors. Warriors are not hostages.”

“I won’t let that happen. That is why I spared them and you.” Young-Do glanced back at the wet nurse caring for the twins in the prison wagon and tried not to let his frustration out. “They are babies. They have no concept of anything past your smell and their wet nurse’s breast. But they will be sad and unhappy if they lose that. I understand you hate my decision, Da-Kyung. But you will have to live with it.”

She hissed and growled at him. It was a struggle to get her back to the palace and into the prison. He gave strict orders that she was to be well fed, clean, and that her babies were to be given the best care. He intended to send a physician he trusted to look at them but the only one he trusted was Hyun-Joo and that seemed unwise.

Court was in session so he didn’t bother to bathe or change. He went in his armor and with his sword to give his report to the king. Father did not look well as he sat on the throne and Young-Do bowed before him. Rachel sat in his place, well beside his seat, like she always did. The emptiness looked like she was waiting for him. He was just glad her presence was ubiquitous now.

“You handled that well, my son,” the King said, the words slow. “You deserve a reward. Since you took Kim Won’s woman from him, I will let you keep her and her children. She will be your first concubine. I’ve already informed your mother to handle her transition from the prison to your place in the palace. Get her pregnant quickly. It will prove to the Kim family there is nothing we cannot take from them.”

It hit him like a cold bucket of water. His fidelity and love for Rachel were well known. But it terrified him when the King addressed his princess.

“I trust you have no objections, crown princess.”

Young-Do looked over at her and her expression was...serene. “You know my prince’s heart on this matter. He is also going to the front as soon as the thaw sets in and the passes clear. Lady Yang Da-Kyung is only two months postpartum and deserves the full six months to heal. The chances the crown prince can obey you, after all the trouble it took to get me pregnant, are very slim. I also believe Yang Da-Kyung would shove a knife in his throat if he attempted it.”

The king huffed and dismissed the court before Young-Do could lodge a single protest. The ministers exited quickly as he walked up to Rachel. She just smiled up at him as she took his hands. “I couldn’t say that I trust you to keep your promise to me regardless. I think you made the right choice, bringing her and her children here.”

“I’m sorry,” he said. “That happened so quickly. I just...I can’t kill babies and she’s their mother. That has to matter, even to a cold warrior woman.”

Rachel cupped the back of his neck and pulled him down to kiss her. He embraced her until he realized how dirty and disheveled he was. “You are a good man. I will figure out how to settle her in the palace. I’m sure Queen Kyung-Ran will have good suggestions. Go bathe and then sleep. I will find you soon.”

Young-Do grabbed her hand before she could pull away and leave him. “Did you sleep alright? Did your grandfather grant your request?”

“He granted it. Hee-Nam is assisting Eun-Sang and last night Eun-Sang slept with me so I could take care of her and pretend missing you wasn’t going to break my heart when the thaw sets in. Myung-Soo wants an update. He freaked out when you didn’t arrive with me. So did Hyo-Shin.”

Young-Do winced and kissed her forehead before going to find his friend and brother.

[gwynne-fics]

Becoming Royals

offering

Rachel made a last ditch effort to get Young-Do to let her ride her horse to the temple to make her offering. No matter what she promised, he was intractable about it and required her to use the palanquin. “I’m not going to purposely endanger our child for my own selfish desire for freedom.”

“I know. And I got you a battle mare partially for this reason. But I don’t want any accidents. With a palanquin there are six men carrying you. If something happens to one, even if it is on accident, there are five other men to bear the weight. This is a surprise visit. I’m mostly sure we won’t be ambushed.”

Her eyebrows went up at his paranoia and she reached up to cup his cheek. “I don’t do well inside a cage,” she said softly. “I like riding and being able to see the world around me. The palanquin makes me claustrophobic. What do you know about the city today that I do not?”

He tensed slightly and swallowed. “After last night, I do not trust the King not to use his private guard to take you hostage as they kill me.”

“They cannot kill you. I will absolutely start another civil war if he does.” She knew it concerned Young-Do when she talked like this but she had to remind him what was in her heart so he understood her love. “I have seen you in action, my prince, and I believe that even in the face of overwhelming force, you will succeed, for me.”

“I need you safe in the palanquin,” he whispered and bowed his head to hers. “I can only do that if I know you’re safe. I made too many mistakes when we retook your home because my fear that Kim Tan would hurt you was overwhelming. Please.”

Rachel couldn’t refuse him when he begged her like this. She sighed and the nodded. Within fifteen minutes, the palanquin was ready and she was inside. She was a little testy that Eun-Sang did not join her and they left before she could get a good enough explanation from Hyo-Shin. She tried not to focus on the way the air inside felt hot despite the lingering winter’s chill.

At least the journey was short and she did not vomit into her pot.

Young-Do was very sweet as he helped her out of the palanquin and gave her water to drink and a rice ball to settle her stomach. He kissed her forehead and fretted about her until the monk in charge of the temple came out to greet him. Young-Do bowed more politely than he needed to and explained the reason for their impromptu visit.

“Of course, your majesty. I will have the acolytes prepare the alter for you. Shall I have the nuns take charge of the crown princess?”

“No,” Young-Do said. “I apologize. While I do trust in the independence of the temples, I also understand how the court works right now. There are enough people unhappy with me and the crown princess to put her life in danger. We are here to show our gratitude that our son has quickened. We must stay together.”

Rachel was relieved that the monk did not look offended. “Yes, your majesty. Feel free to walk around the grounds and allow the peace of their quiet to calm your hearts. I will send someone when we are ready for the princess to make her offering.”

They were left alone and Rachel motioned one of the nuns over. A young woman came up and bowed politely as Rachel held out some money. “We came unprepared and must impose upon the temple. This should make up for our inconvenience.”

She caught Young-Do’s faint blush and she just smiled once they were effectively alone. “Eun-Sang would usually handle that for me. Did Hyo-Shin explain why she was unavailable?”

“She ate something last night that didn’t agree with her. He says she’ll be up to managing you when we get back. I didn’t chide him from encouraging her to rest. If she doesn’t feel good then she won’t be able to watch your food as closely. He did that duty for us this morning. He didn’t cook, obviously, but he watched it the entire way. I tested it.”

“If Eun-Sang tests my food and it made her ill--”

“It was after we went to bed. Hyo-Shin insists she’s fine. He spent the night looking after her. Should I have Hyun-Joo look at her?”

Rachel bit her lower lip and tried to be reasonable. The last time Eun-Sang had been sick it was years ago. She was normally so healthy that for her to take even a few hours off was unusual. “I don’t want that rumor getting around. Song Ji-Sun is the sweetest woman alive but her family...it is bad enough that Prince Myung-Soo’s gisaeng habit is public knowledge. It puts Yoo-Ra in a difficult place. Only distance keeps his gisaeng safe from her. Protecting Eun-Sang means avoiding the appearance of their love. His father already knows. I don’t doubt he still has influence in the palace.”

Young-Do kissed her forehead and then took her hands. “He gets married in a few weeks. I will remind him to be careful with your precious sister.”

“You think I’m paranoid.” Rachel felt her cheeks heat up.

“I think you have a very good sense of what is going on at court and that you love your maid very much.” He took her hand as a nun walked towards them with purpose. “I want her well because she will be a comfort to you when I’m gone.”

Rachel had to hide her sadness with that statement as they bowed to the nun and were escorted inside. The offering was simple and she only had to bow and stand seven times. Two nuns attended her throughout the process to make it easier because Young-Do had to do the bowing and standing and bowing with her. She was supposed to pray throughout the process but as someone who didn’t really believe, she let her mind wander.

She knew better than to beg the heavens for a baby boy. Instead, she hoped Eun-Sang’s illness was not a sign of something more serious for her sister.

The performance was what mattered and that’s why she was here. 

Rachel pretended not to see the small crowd at the edge of the temple grounds gathering for a glimpse of her. She made sure that the people could see that she was growing well into her pregnancy as she climbed back into the palanquin. Young-Do fretting and making sure she was properly settled was a nice touch to send them off with.

She dozed briefly on the way back and was relieved that Eun-Sang met them in the courtyard to attend her. She didn’t bother to be subtle as she checked for signs of a more serious illness. Eun-Sang smiled and kissed her cheek. Rachel frowned slightly. She smelled like Rachel’s candy. “I am fine. Come take a bath so you can fall asleep right after dinner.”

Rachel sighed and leaned against her. “I didn’t do anything today. I’m not going to fall asleep after dinner.”

She tried not to be cranky that Eun-Sang was right.

[gwynne-fics]

Becoming Royals

request p2

“I would like your permission to bring your servant, Hee-Nam, into the palace to care for her.” Rachel didn’t lift her head until Grandfather spoke. It felt like forever but it was appropriate, considering the magnitude of what she was asking.

“Lift your head, princess. You are making all of us uncomfortable.” He paused while she straightened. “The palace corridors are not kind and she is a mute. I will need to speak with Hee-Nam. Despite her relationship to your maid, I will need her input. Come back after your errands and I will have an answer for you.”

“Thank you for your consideration.” Rachel bowed her forehead to the ground again before struggling to her feet. She knew it was killing Young-Do to watch her submit herself this way because he practically lept over his table to help her.

She was glad he didn’t say anything until they were on their way to her school. The queens stayed behind and she knew she confused Young-Do because he didn’t comment on his mother’s lingering behind.

“You are treating Eun-Sang as if someone is out to hurt her the way they are out to hurt you.”

“I turned her into a target by favoring her above all others. She tried to let me earn her place among the staff but I didn’t listen. She is favored by me and by Lee Hyo-Shin, whose father views their love with as much disgust as he had for your love with his son, because she doesn’t have noble blood. Just because he is currently contained in exile doesn’t mean he can’t hurt her and her child. Children born of love need to be protected before they are born. My mother failed to do that and had to give up her dearest friend. I refuse to make that mistake.” She didn’t look at Young-Do as she spoke. She didn’t want him to see how much this upset her. “I made Eun-Sang a promise that we wouldn’t end up like our mothers. I intend to keep it.”

Young-Do tugged on her hand to get her to stop walking and he cupped her cheek. “If your grandfather refuses, I’m sure my mothers will figure something out that doesn’t disturb the status quo inside the palace. That’s why they stayed behind--to help you.”

“I know. I’m just asking for a lot.”

He was quiet as they started walking. “I’ve done things to protect Hyo-Shin that amount to a lot,” he answered after a moment. “I understand. I’ll support you in this.”

“Thank you.” She let out a low breath as they rounded the corner to her first school. Her eyes widened slightly at the small commotion. The courtyard looked like a market. Rachel smiled as she realized what was going on. “They are selling their apprentice work to the community. This is what I wanted to happen but I thought they were waiting until spring.”

Young-Do looked around and his eyebrows lowered. “Just a moment. There are gisaeng here and...”

“You think I shouldn’t associate with gisaeng? You are the one who orchestrated my lessons with Madam Chang-Yi. Yoo-Ra is at the other school today with Myung-Soo. They’re working on it together. Just because I am relieved you don’t go to the pavilion, that doesn’t mean gisaeng aren’t a vital part of the community.”

Young-Do gaped at her slightly before he sighed. “I shouldn’t be surprised by your attitude but it wasn’t what I was expecting. I thought you were adamant about the young girls not being given to the pavilion just because they are orphans.”

“I am. But I know that sometimes it doesn’t work like that. I correspond with Chang-Yi. She lets me know if there is a girl, coming of age, that stands out as being too pretty. It is better she serve the pavilion than get put in a house with a jealous wife to abuse her. Chang-Yi has a reputation for protecting her girls.”

“That is well said, princess.” They were interrupted by probably the second most beautiful woman Rachel had ever seen. It took a moment for Rachel to recognize her as the woman Young-Do pointed out at their wedding as Myung-Soo’s love, Ye-Sol. She swept an amazingly beautiful bow to them both. “I apologize for my rudeness, but I have a vital piece of information I received last night that I need to get to my prince. As he has not come to the pavilion these last few months, and the crown prince is now a stranger to us, I have no way to give it to him. May I entrust it to you?”

“Yes. If this problem arises again, please come directly to me in the palace. I’m sure your mother and Jae-Kyung can arrange it.” Ye-Sol reached into her cloak and pulled out a small, folded piece of paper. She handed it to Rachel, bowed, and then left them alone. Rachel opened it, not caring if it was intelligence for Myung-Soo. She knew their cipher and could read through it easily.

Her stomach sank as she closed her eyes. “General Yang likes to brag in bed, it seems. This is the other reason I believe in keeping good ties to the pavilion. Gisaeng have their own network, it looks like. You need to go take him out. Tonight. Myung-Soo has people for this, but this village is close enough and you might be able to find more information to help General Lee.”

Young-Do took the paper from her and carefully read through it. She liked watching his lips move as he decoded the cipher. He closed his eyes. “Myung-Soo will want to take care of it.”

Rachel shook her head. “Please trust me on this. Take me back to my grandfather’s and I will return to the palace with the queens. Take Nam-Il and Hyo-Shin with you, publicly capture and execute General Yang and deal your first deathblow to the traitors. It is the right call.”

She watched him struggle with the decision before he agreed with her. He took her hand, apologized to the leaders of the school, and asked the magistrates to send their reports directly to Myung-Soo at the palace before they hurried back to Grandfather’s estate.

Rachel watched Young-Do leave with a heavy heart. He would be back tomorrow but it still hurt to see him leave.

[gwynne-fics]

Becoming Royals

laying plans

Young-Do waited until Rachel was asleep before he summoned Hyo-Shin, Nam-Il, and Myung-Soo. He closed the curtains to their bed so they wouldn’t disturb his wife and once they all arrived, he kept his voice low.

“The King is sending me to the front once it thaws.” No one looked surprised at this declaration. He’d been talking about going with these men when Rachel returned to the palace. “I’m not going to take a bodyguard.”

“No.” It was in unison and Young-Do almost smiled. Hyo-Shin looked the angriest. “You need a bodyguard. I will be married by that point and--”

“How far along is Eun-Sang?” Young-Do spent so much time watching Rachel for signs of her pregnancy that he knew what pregnancy sickness looked like. He didn’t often pay attention to the maids or court ladies, but this was Rachel’s sister. He put it together on the way home from the temple. He was a little shocked Rachel hadn’t figured it out yet.

“Two months.” But Hyo-Shin knew. He looked away. Young-Do didn’t chide him for hiding it, especially from Rachel. It wasn’t safe to reveal until after he was married and the Song family had no choice but to accept him. “That’s not a good enough reason. If it were, you would fight the king and stay.”

“I will accompany you,” Nam-Il said. “You need a bodyguard.”

“You have a new daughter and Il-Seok is sick. He needs you more than I need you. What I need is for you and Hyo-Shin to protect Rachel. You are the only two men I trust to do that.”

“This is a bad idea,” Myung-Soo cut in. “Turning yourself into bait doesn’t help us. You’re a good warrior, Young-Do. The best any of us have every seen but the front is different. I know I wasn’t there long the last time but--”

“I need to draw them out or they will go after Rachel because she’s vulnerable. She can’t defend herself as well anymore. Quickening changed a lot for her today. I have to leave. I have to give our father the opportunity to assassinate me.”

“And if he succeeds?” Nam-Il’s eyes were cold and his expression hard. Young-Do rarely saw him angry but he had to win this argument. “Much has been done to prepare the country and you for the throne. Throwing it away invalidates all the sacrifices of your mothers.”

That was part of the reason he didn’t include them in this discussion.

“If he succeeds, it is your responsibility to protect my wife and son. Rachel will be a good queen regent and raise our little prince into a better version of me.” He took a deep breath and looked at Myung-Soo. “And if she has a daughter, I know you will still protect them when you take the throne.”

“I have no intention of ever taking the throne,” Myung-Soo said after a moment of quiet intensity. “I do not want it. I never have. You will have to return alive.”

“Myung-Soo--”

“No. I refuse. Find a way to stay or keep your ass alive. Those are the only options you have, hyungnim.” Myung-Soo stood and walked out. Young-Do didn’t call after him. He just waited for Hyo-Shin and Nam-Il to accept what he needed.

“Young-Do--”

“I am not asking.” He didn’t want to resort to this but he needed them to understand his priorities. He hadn’t come to this decision lightly. “This is a command from your crown prince. If you refuse, I won’t hesitate to put you in prison. My mind is made up. Bo-Na will be at my side. That will be enough.”

Nam-Il abruptly stood, bowed, and then left. Young-Do resisted the urge to run after him. He rarely gave orders like this. Hyo-Shin’s gaze was closed and he covered his mouth with his hand. “We don’t have to like this.”

“I’m not asking you to. Rachel is more important to me. She always will be.”

“I know. I also know you wouldn’t throw us in prison. I haven’t decided if I will accept this command. I will let you know tomorrow after I speak with Eun-Sang and Ji-Sun.” He stood, bowed, and left. Young-Do sat at his table for nearly an hour. He knew this was the right course of action. His thoughts were so focused that he didn’t hear Rachel get out of bed until she put a blanket over his shoulders. It startled him and he blinked up at her.

“Did we wake you?”

“Our little prince is kicking again. I only need one bodyguard. Take Go Nam-Il with you. You mean more to him than I do.”

Young-Do shook his head. “If that’s true, he will stay behind and respect my wishes.”

“Then come to bed and stay this time.” She pressed a soft kiss against his temple before taking his hand and drawing him back to bed with her. He laid beside her, his hand on her belly, and almost wished Nam-Il, Hyo-Shin, and Myung-Soo didn’t love him so much.

[gwynne-fics]

Becoming Royals

undermined

“Where is my maid? Eun-Sang has been tasked with cooking for me and maintaining custody over my food.” Rachel stood and felt Young-Do join her with his hand against her back. “What is your name?”

She bowed. “Lady Mi-Sook. I have no house and was not sponsored into the palace. Prince Myung-Soo and Queen Jae-Kyung approved my appointment. I have assigned Eun-Sang other tasks. She is out of practice for work in the palace and needs to be reeducated. She is too familiar with--”

“Lady Mi-Sook, I have never hit a servant. Please do not push me to be the first. I will not eat this. Take it away. Who told you to reeducate her?” Young-Do curled his fingers in the back of her gown but it did not calm the fury in her belly.

“No one, your majesty.” She bowed and then motioned for the staff to remove their lunch. “She is my responsibility. Her familiarity with you, the princes, and Lord Lee Hyo-Shin is a problem. She belongs to the palace and cannot draw the eye of so many powerful men. She needs to be reminded of her place.”

“No. She is mine and I gave her specific instructions. Her place is next to me. Bring me Prince Myung-Soo.” When Lady Mi-Sook hesitated, Young-Do cleared his throat. She left and took the servants with her. “I am not being unreasonable.”

“You are not. Were you really going to hit her?”

“No.” Rachel balled her hands into fists. “But I wanted to.”

She was cut off by the announcement of Prince Myung-Soo and Queen Jae-Kyung. Rachel explained what was going on and Queen Jae-Kyung sighed before she hugged her. “She is the only one with the qualifications to oversee the court ladies that truly hasn’t been bought by anyone. I will explain that Eun-Sang isn’t under her jurisdiction. I’m sorry, Rachel. I know how scared you are to be back here knowing you were poisoned by the staff.”

“Why is she doing this? Who is she trying to curry favor with?”

“This is just how she is,” Queen Jae-Kyung said. “I’ve had her running my part of the palace for five years and she does a very good job. She just doesn’t like men taking advantage of her girls. She doesn’t like the girls inviting the attention.” She shot her son a pointed look but Myung-Soo ignored her.

“That’s it,” Young-Do cut in. “Have Eun-Sang run your staff.”

“I don’t have a staff. I don’t count as a member of the royal family until I have our son or become queen.”

“Queen Kyung-Ran can make it happen.” Myung-Soo said it just as Eun-Sang announced herself. She immediately went to Rachel and took her hands. 

“I will make you lunch right now. What do you want?”

“Just rice and a little bit of kimchi. I need that tea you make.” Rachel felt hesitant after making such a big deal over this. Eun-Sang noticed and kissed her cheek. “I don’t think I can keep meat down.”

“Alright. I will be back soon.”

“Why didn’t you say anything when they put you on another task?”

“I’m the beloved maid of the crown princess. I need to get in good with these girls if I’m to keep you safe.” She squeezed Rachel’s hands before bowing to the rest of the royal family and darting out. Young-Do tried to get her to sit down just as Queen Kyung-Ran was announced.

Rachel tried not to be surprised when she dismissed the staff and kept her voice low. At least her words were for Young-Do and not Rachel. “Did you really insinuate to the King that if he executed you for treason upon the birth of your son, that the crown princess would war to avenge you?”

Rachel felt Young-Do wince slightly before he said, “Yes. Well, I didn’t think she’d let the king take our son after losing me like that.”

She tried not to snicker when she caught the queen struggling not to laugh. “You are going to get yourself killed, my son.”

That was not what Rachel wanted but she wasn’t going to berate Young-Do for spinning up the king. When she heard him start throwing things, all she wanted was for the King’s heart to stop.

And if the knowledge that Rachel would wage war upon anyone who took her husband or child from her would make King Dong-Wook’s heart race too fast, Rachel would tell him every day that she was coming for his kingdom.

[gwynne-fics]

Becoming Royals

the third hurdle

“Did you know about Lee Chan-Hyuk’s treachery? Is that why you protected his son?” At least the King waited until court ended to berate him in the privacy of his room. He made Rachel wait outside and it made Young-Do nervous.

“Abeonim, I have hated Lee Chan-Hyuk for over a year now. We have never trusted him. Lee Hyo-Shin’s beliefs on the rule of law run counter to his father. They have for nearly a decade now. Lee Chan-Hyuk threatened Rachel’s sister-maid. This was the only way to save him from the stain of treasonous blood as a prince. Lee Hyo-Shin is not my lover but that doesn’t mean he isn’t my friend.”

Father slapped him and Young-Do didn’t turn his face into the blow. “I made that offer to the maid in good faith and you deceive me like this?”

“You made it to get Rachel back in the palace,” Young-Do snapped and didn’t even notice the second slap. “You knew Lee Chan-Hyuk would be cruel to Eun-Sang and you knew Rachel loves her like a sister. You knew Rachel would risk her safety for Eun-Sang and that is why she is here, Abeonim! Aren’t we past lying to each other?”

“You claim to love her so much and yet she doesn’t return for you.” He swept over to his chair and sat down with utter disgust. “She thinks she is risking her safety? The palace is the safest--”

“It is not. Too many men want power. You saw what Minister Wang was willing to do to supplant me and my child while you were on your sickbed.” Young-Do caught the teacup the King threw at him. He briefly clutched at his heart and Young-Do held his breath and the King tried to breathe through the pain. He immediately calmed himself down. “I’ve become her poison tester. I am not losing my child to anyone. I am not losing my wife to this court. She will be my queen when I become king.”

“That day is far in coming,” the King snarled and this time he took off his crown and threw it at Young-Do. He didn’t dare catch it and the ornate jewelry clattered to the floor.

“Your doctors are lying to you. We have a new head court lady. You should reinstate Hyun-Joo as your chief physician.”

“Kim Won’s--”

“Prove it. Prove that she broke her oath.” He paused and then said firmly. “You can’t. She was only with me and only because you allowed Myung-Soo and I to have whomever we wanted and I wanted her.”

“In five months, I can name your son as the crown prince and execute you.”

“Maybe,” Young-Do said even though fear coursed through him. He bowed deeply before setting the teacup on the closest table. He turned to leave. “Maybe, Abeonim. But it would be such a waste of your hard work to mold me into a good king. You would have to start all over and I highly doubt Rachel will just let you take her son without starting a war.”

He walked out of the King’s rooms and slammed the door shut. Rachel stared up at him with wide eyes as he took her hand and led her away from the danger his father represented. Once they were in their rooms, Rachel pushed him to sit on the bed as she frowned at his face. Her fingertips were cool against the heat of his father’s slaps.

“I will never do that to our son. I will never hit him.”

Rachel blinked and then her eyes softened. “It never occurred to me that you might.” She kissed his forehead. “Stay here.”

She went to the door and called for a maid. She ordered food and cool cloths. “Inform Queen Kyung-Ran that I might be late to the women’s court today. I’m still getting used to my new routine and this morning was taxing. The crown prince and I need a nap.”

“Yes, princess.”

Rachel returned to his side and sat down next to him. She took his hand and placed it against her stomach. He swallowed and pulled her close. When he raised his eyebrows at her, she shrugged. “It grounds you. I’m certain you’re going to be impossible when I really do start showing.”

Young-Do laughed and bowed his forehead to the top of her head. The new head court lady announced herself and entered with lunch. Rachel tensed and Young-Do knew why.

Eun-Sang was not among the servants.

[gwynne-fics]

Becoming Royals

threats and promises

Young-Do tried not to look at Rachel’s meal with disgust but he was pretty sure the two different things she mixed in her rice bowl did not belong together. He tried to focus on his own meal and not give any indication that she was killing his appetite with her choices. Hyun-Joo said she might crave unexpected foods and that she should listen to her body and eat them.

“You’re Not Staring at me,” she said. “I need protein and vegetables. I dislike the smell of meat right now. This makes it better.”

“I’m not Not Staring,” he insisted. “I’ve just never seen anyone put those two things together, that’s all. How are you feeling? You’ve started napping again.”

She wrinkled her nose and poked at her rice bowl with her chopsticks. “I’m growing a new crown prince inside of me. It’s exhausting.”

It took him a moment before he realized what she was saying. He had to hide his smile because her pout was adorable. “You’re bored.”

“I have nothing to do. I have no routine. No one interrupts my naps with anything important. I’ve literally fulfilled my one obligation to the country. Queen Kyung-Ran’s visits are a nice distraction and it is thoughtful of her to hold the women’s court here for my sake. But I can’t go riding. Eun-Sang gets fretful whenever I try to go to the new location for Yoo-Ra’s school. At least when I nap I don’t have to listen to the gossip.” She half threw her chopsticks onto the table. 

Young-Do didn’t say anything about the gossip. He wanted the gossip to bring her home. There was something of a social battle going on between the men and women of the merchant and working classes. It was fanned by the flames of something Hyo-Shin did in one of the civil courts--requiring a wealthy merchant to buy a separate residence with a small staff for his former wife after she provided evidence of her work running his business and household.

Hyo-Shin ruled that it was clear that his business wouldn’t have succeeded without her contributions. It was very controversial.

Young-Do made it clear that he supported the ruling. It was interesting to see the pull he had as Rachel’s husband. He’d watched the merchant pale slightly when Hyo-Shin welcomed Young-Do and asked how Rachel was doing. So far, the merchant hadn’t appealed the ruling.

“Myung-Soo and Yoo-Ra are getting married next week. Will you come to the palace to give your blessing? I know it matters to her.”

Rachel’s expression softened. “I am prepared for the King to use force to keep me hostage again when I attend. There are consequences to what I did and I accept that. I’m scared I’ll lose our little prince, Young-Do. I don’t know how I’ll be able to handle that. That’s why I want to wait until I’ve had longer to make him and there is less of a chance I can lose him. I want to ask you to bring me back here yourself but I don’t know if I can ask that of you.”

“I don’t have enough evidence against Minister Wang to accuse him of treason. Not when it relies on the testimony of two women known to be spies for Kim Won. I’ve protected both girls as best I can but I know Lee Chan-Hyuk is still a threat to you.” His throat closed up for a moment. “I want you to come home. I want it so much it hurts to leave you every morning and worry I won’t make it here at night. But, if you come to the wedding, I will bring you back.”

The relief coming off his wife choked him up. A few tears escaped her control and she bowed her head. Young-Do closed his eyes and knew that her show of strength these last few weeks was just that--a show. He set aside his dinner and went over to her. He picked her up and brought her over to her bed. He laid down with her and sought out the very small firmness on her stomach starting to push out now that she was past three months.

He kissed the top of her head and tried to comfort her. She eventually cried herself to sleep and he wished he could do more to support her. He called for a servant to clear away their dinner before he asked for tea and got more comfortable before joining her in bed.

She was still deeply asleep when he had to get ready to leave for court in the morning. He got dressed and his heart ached at leaving her so unhappy. He felt guilty for not considering that she was both bored and discontent like him. Young-Do sat down on the edge of her bed and watched her sleep for a few moments.

“I miss you.” He picked up her hand and kissed her fingertips. He gently set her hand down and barely refrained from touching her stomach. He couldn’t wait to feel his child kick against his palm. “I’m afraid the longer you are gone the easier it will be for our enemies to win. I love you.”

He stood and prepared to leave when he felt her fingers curl in his sleeve. He looked down to see her open her eyes. Rachel sat up and reached for him. He bent his head and she kissed him. “I love you.”

“I will see you tonight.” He kissed her again before he stood and left. Morning court was excruciating. Young-Do nearly lost it when Lee Chan-Hyuk started speaking.

“The crown prince and crown princess have been separated for three months,” he said. “It is clear that he intends to put her away and that her family supports the divorce. Here is a motion for the crown to finish the process and bar the princess from taking another lover or husband as is befitting the mother of an heir. We also want the princess to submit the child to blood drop test.”

“What the fuck?” Young-Do was not going to take this sitting down. He rose to his feet and grabbed the sword of the closest guard. Father glanced at him but didn’t interrupt. “We were separated for five days during her issue after that disgusting motion to inspect her. I have been with her, every night, since. I have never intended to put her away and she has never asked her grandfather to bring the divorce to the courts. We don’t want this.”

“Then why isn’t she here?” It was low and cruel but Young-Do was used to the cruelty of his situation. Lee Chan-Hyuk turned to the king and bowed deeply. “Your majesty, the crown prince--”

“Is capable of speaking his own desires.” Father was smirking but Young-Do didn’t care as he unsheathed his sword and pressed the flat of the blade on the Minister of Justice’s shoulder. “I may be unhappy that my son managed to lose control over his wife but she is pregnant and he is spending his nights there. Jae-Shin. What does your family think?”

Lee Jae-Shin bowed and stepped out of the noble queue. “My granddaughter has promised me she will return to the palace once her pregnancy has settled at six months. I believe Minister Lee must have an ulterior motive in his attempt to divorce the prince and princess. If he is successful and Princess Rachel loses the child, how will he take responsibility? Or will he attempt to shove another girl at the prince?”

“I didn’t mean to imply--”

“Yes, you did.” Young-Do yanked the scroll out of his hand and tore it into pieces, using the blade of his sword and the minister’s shoulder for leverage. “I want you to understand that I will protect the princess and my unborn child at the cost of anyone’s life who dares any attempt to hurt her. There is nothing in the law that says we must live together in my house. There is no separation. Do not try this again, Minister Lee. I am losing patience.”

“Your majesty--”

“You will never be Prime Minister,” Young-Do declared it loudly and there was a buzz. “You will never have any power beyond what you’ve already got. When I become king, you are the first person I will rid myself of, followed by anyone else who dares to insult my princess. I have a list, ministers, and I will cross you off of it.”

And the King laughed.

[gwynne-fics]

Becoming Royals

poison and lies

“I want him executed.” Rachel managed to remain calm during Young-Do’s simple explanation of someone daring to poison her but her blood started to boil. “Find him and I will kill him myself.”

“We will have to torture the court lady--”

“No, we won’t. I will interrogate her.” She felt so queasy but she went over to her desk and started writing down the names of everyone that served her in the palace. “Eun-Sang!”

She caught Young-Do’s wince at the shrillness in her tone when she shouted for her maid. “Myung-Soo got a lead on Hee-Jin. He’s tracking it down today. We should know something soon.”

Rachel briefly closed her eyes as a lump formed in her throat. She tried to swallow it but her nausea and fatigue didn’t make it easy. Eun-Sang came in and bowed to Young-Do before coming to Rachel’s side. She looked at her list after Rachel explained what had happened.

“Lady Baek would never poison you. She takes her position too seriously. She is fair to a fault. Not even the king would be able to get her to do this. She is very protective of us girls, though. I know the prince is rightfully upset with her for not taking Rachel’s mental health into account, but--”

“I’m not willing to reinstate her. I’m watching to see who hires her.” He ignored the look she and Eun-Sang gave him. He always did that when he couldn’t tell what they were thinking. Eun-Sang marked all the spies and who they worked for. She watched him to grit his teeth at how many people Rachel allowed to serve her that were clearly against them.

After nearly a half hour, Rachel wrote down a name. “It’s her. Ha-Jin. Lady Baek’s personal apprentice, with access to both Hyun-Joo’s apothecary, office, and the kitchens. She’s unremarkable otherwise. I think she is working for Lord Wang.”

Young-Do blinked and she knew he was confused. “He’s unimportant.”

“His sons are in the line of succession.” Rachel pressed her lips together. “I suspect that he would’ve made a motion to name his oldest as the crown prince as neither you nor Myung-Soo have a child yet. There is an archaic law that would make his family important again. Bring her to me. I will get testimony from her in exchange for immunity.”

“I want her punished for--”

“Obeying a man she can’t refuse? Lord Wang sponsored her into the palace. He is the reason she is fed three times a day and is paid enough rice to feed her family. She owes him everything. If he asked her to put something into the crown princess’ morning tea that did not harm me, of course she would do it.”

He curled his hands into fists. “That preventative did harm you. You are here and not in the palace because it caused you so much harm. If she didn’t do it--”

“Lord Wang would most likely have her beaten the way the king beats you. Harshly but carefully, so there are no marks. He is the traitor. She is collateral damage. Send her to my mother. That will be punishment enough without any kind of beating.”

“If I protect this girl will you come home once it is confirmed you’re pregnant?”

He didn’t look at her, so it couldn’t even be called a command. It was a little petulant but she knew how difficult these last six weeks had been on him. There was so much hope resting on the fact she hadn’t bled yet.

“Eun-Sang.” Her friend immediately bowed and left them alone. Rachel swallowed and tried not to feel defensive. “I’m surprised you haven’t kidnapped me in the middle of the night and brought me back. I wondered when you would bring it up.”

Young-Do looked down at his hands. “The beatings don’t really hurt. They’re just uncomfortable. I can bear them. I would never just pick you up and take you home. It would be wrong.”

“But you want to.”

“Yes.” He squeezed his eyes shut. “I’m miserable without you. I hate practicing alone in the mornings. I hate not having lunch with you. I hate that I can’t pull you out of the women’s court to get you to go riding with me. I know you can’t do all those things anymore but...”

“We don’t know I’m pregnant.”

Young-Do rolled his eyes. “Rachel. You don’t like me touching your breasts at night, you can barely keep dinner down, you are fatigued by noon, and you’ve had exactly no bleeding, even when it’s still possible. I’ve read every single book on this I can get my hands on. Hyun-Joo agrees. You are pregnant.”

Rachel had to look away. She didn’t want to start crying but her eyes got wet anyway. “It feels too easy. Even knowing I was poisoned by the preventative, it feels too easy. I didn’t think this would work so quickly, Young-Do.”

Then he did her favorite thing when she was upset. He came around to her side of the desk, picked her up, and brought her over to the bed so they could lay together while she cried herself towards calm.

He held her without complaint. She couldn’t accept it yet. She just wanted to be angry at yet another man trying to control her. “There is some good news. The king has agreed to arrange the marriage between Yoo-Ra and Myung-Soo. He’s started courting her the normal way.”

“What does that even mean?”

Young-Do laughed softly. “He’s sending her poetry, small gifts, and asking her father if they can go on chaperoned walks. They talk about her work at the orphanage. Apparently, she is a fan of yours. Myung-Soo thinks she cares about the project for real though and not just to get on your good side.”

Rachel smiled slightly. She liked Yoo-Ra but she sensed the same...possessiveness that was inside Rachel. Rachel knew she couldn’t even share Eun-Sang, whom she loved so much, with Young-Do. Yoo-Ra didn’t love Eun-Sang and Rachel couldn’t chance the cruelty. Ji-Sun loved all the women around her and flirted shamelessly. Ji-Sun didn’t really want a husband. Hyo-Shin would be perfect for her because he didn’t really want a wife that wasn’t Eun-Sang. Both Ji-Sun and Yoo-Ra came to visit her with the queen. They were good women and Rachel was glad Yoo-Ra cared about social projects for her own reasons.

“Any more talk of a concubine for you?”

“No. I can’t be trusted with one since losing you.” That made her smile and press closer to his chest. “He thought about it,” Young-Do said lowly, “Until I reminded him that your grandfather is lobbying for social reforms that he hates. Attempting to replace you wasn’t a good option. I wouldn’t do it anyway.”

Rachel thought about that and wrinkled her nose as she attempted to snuggle closer before her breasts made the same point Young-Do had made earlier. They were tender and did not want to be squished against him.

“I suppose he is entertaining ministers a lot more than he used to. I wasn’t paying attention. I’m just tired all the time.”

He kissed the top of her head. “You never answered me about Ha-Jin.”

“I can’t go back. What if I’m poisoned again? This time with an abortive? If I am pregnant and I lose this baby...I’m just too afraid. I’m sorry. I cannot alleviate your misery.”

Young-Do was quiet for a few moments. “Then I will have to make an example out of Lord Wang and purge the palace.”

[gwynne-fics]

wei50-blog replied to your post “Becoming Royals a wedding “You keep humming,” Rachel muttered at...”

Would love to know more about possible secret plans between Hyo-Shin and Eun-Sang! I know, I know… (where is that list of mine?) Hope they are getting time together, and definitely hope for a happy ending for these two! Hyo-Shin is likely angering his father by his rulings and also because he is not trying to gain more power for the family. Will the plan of marrying him to Ji-Sun go through? Hope her family is powerful enough for Chan-Hyuk.

Hyo-Shin and Eun-Sang are stealing all sorts of moments together. It is a little difficult because she is so busy and people have noticed his interest in her >.>

Chan-Hyuk is about to have other problems to distract him from whether or not his son is obeying him properly >.>

Love these unofficial sisters, their devotion to each other, and how they each do what they can for the other. Aw, Eun-Sang trying to give Rachel’s reputation a boost. Haha biggest gossips like sageuk paparazzi! This is definitely time to add on to the good press! At least with the people that already love Rachel for who she is and what she as done, as well as for the love story of the crown prince and princess. Noblemen probably not as positive about her....

They are less positive about her but they are also getting a reminder that women aren’t just objects to use as their wives not only demand the kind of proper treatment they should already be getting and remind their husbands that they can be lost.

But, I do like to believe that most of the men are not monsters like the king and Chan-Hyuk. They may not be great men like Young-Do, but Myung-Soo is far from bad and he’s much more typical of the time.

Rachel walking into the king’s territory, where he has the most concentrated power. No wonder she is afraid, especially since she has not been able to use weapons since defending herself from the inspection. Really, really hope that Young-Do will not be pulled from her side. Does seem like he is aware and preparing as best he can. The king is very experienced in ways to wield his power though. This chapter makes me uneasy, … too calm…

>.>

Wonderful unexpected support and protection in the palace awaiting Rachel! The women have united! Rachel has shown them their value and worth. And Rachel does what she does not because she is trying to gain favor or power, but because she truly believes in these ideas. Wow, now that the women know how they can do when they act as a group, wonder what else can be accomplished? Also, if they will be ‘punished’ for what they are doing…

Ladies protecting ladies! There isn’t a lot that can be done to punish them so this was just an important show of solidarity. Rachel isn’t there to see the change that’s happening inside the court but it will be clearer to her what influence she has wrought later.

[gwynne-fics]

wei50-blog replied to your post “wei50-blog replied to your post “Becoming Royals impressive “Why...”

Interesting tidbit that Chan-Hyuk is not well liked. Hope that means he will not be able to mount anything that could seriously hurt our couple! Also interesting that Myung-Soo’s goal is stability. For Young-Do’s future kingship sake? Wonder about the lengths Myung-Soo will go to achieve this goal. Understand the queens’ concerns re Young-Do. Hope that Rachel and Nam-Il will be able to reassure them. Can see Rachel being more bloodthirsty as a plus.

Myung-Soo wants an easy transition of power when the king dies. It will be good for the people not to see Young-Do’s first hours in chaos. If ministers need to be changed or relieved of their positions, then Myung-Soo wants it done carefully and quietly. Stability is very important to him after having such a tyrant and fickle ruler.

Rachel being bloodthirsty will be important down the line because she will be willing to do things that need to be done. Like handle Chan-Hyuk >.>

Ah, was wondering about Eun-Sang being put under Chan-Hyuk’s control. The best timing would be to wait until he was dead, or somehow neutralized. Was thinking Lord Lee could use his influence to try to protect her, but also see how he has already expressed his displeasure, and turning down a direct order would be problematic. Glad that his changing toward the positive feelings for Young-Do’s potential will be realized!

Since children really do not move out of the house during this time period, especially in noble families, Rachel and Hyo-Shin both understand that keeping Eun-Sang out of Chan-Hyuk’s attention is important. Right now, the plan as been for Young-Do to offer Eun-Sang as a concubine to Hyo-Shin as a reward for his loyal service when he becomes king.

Eun-Sang understands that as much as she loves Hyo-Shin that they need to be careful. She has the support of the crown princess behind her so she can be patient.

Even though Rachel would be absolutely discrete with the information, there really isn’t a need for her to know? Actually, there isn’t a need for anyone else to know, or any positive reason to share the info. Maybe, just maybe, the two princes will be relived and happy to know who their biological father is? Hm, but wanting to do the noble thing… definitely would be disastrous for the kingdom.

This information through Rachel is mostly for the reader. She doesn’t need it confirmed because she already believes it. The boys might want to know who their real father is, but Nam-Il has already acted like a good father should towards them. It isn’t so much the biology that they need but the confirmation of love. The nobility in both Young-Do and Myung-Soo terrifies the queens. There are no biological male heirs of Dong-Wook and the princesses aren’t equipped to rule. 

It would be a blood bath.