황실의 사랑 이야기 (Hwangsil-ui Sarang Iyagi) - The Imperial Love Story

Chapter - 66

The evening sun bathed the palace in a warm glow, casting long shadows across the marble floors of Ryujin's chamber. Despite the grandeur surrounding her, the weight of her impending marriage felt like an anchor dragging her down into despair. She paced the room, her thoughts a chaotic whirlwind, until finally, she resolved to take action.

Finding a quiet corner by the window, Ryujin retrieved a piece of parchment and her favorite ink. She took a deep breath, letting the calm of the fading light settle her racing heart. With careful strokes, she began to write, pouring her emotions onto the page.

The letter:

Dear Mother and Father,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I have been thinking of you both often since my arrival at the palace. The hospitality here has been warm, but I must confess that my heart feels heavy.

As you know, I am to be wed to Prince Yongbok of this kingdom, a union that has been arranged without my consent. While I respect the traditions that guide our families, I must share my truth with you. My heart belongs to another, and I cannot marry someone I do not love.

In my heart, I know this marriage will not bring joy to either of us. I have met someone whose spirit speaks to me, someone who fills my days with laughter and warmth. I cannot betray this love for the sake of a political alliance.

I understand that this may come as a shock, but I implore you to consider my feelings. I seek your guidance and support as I navigate this difficult situation. I wish to be honest with you, for I know you both want nothing but my happiness.

Please, can we speak of this matter? I believe it is time to challenge the expectations placed upon us and embrace a future where love—true love—guides our decisions.

With all my love,
Ryujin

As she sealed the letter with a wax emblem, a sense of hope flickered within her. Ryujin knew that her parents were kind and wise, and she trusted that they would understand her plight.

She summoned a palace servant, handing over the letter with careful instructions to deliver it to her parents without delay. Watching the servant disappear down the corridor, Ryujin felt a weight lift from her shoulders. She had taken the first step toward reclaiming her future, and no matter the outcome, she knew she had to be true to herself.

A few days had passed since Ryujin sent her heartfelt letter to her parents. Each morning, she awoke with a mix of anticipation and anxiety, her heart racing at the thought of their response. She had confided in Yongbok about her correspondence, and he had offered words of encouragement, reassuring her that love would prevail.

On this particular afternoon, the sun hung high in the sky, casting a golden light across the garden. Ryujin sat beneath a blossoming cherry tree, her thoughts wandering to the life that awaited her. Suddenly, the sound of footsteps interrupted her reverie. A palace servant approached, holding a familiar piece of parchment with the royal seal.

"Princess Ryujin!" the servant called out, a bright smile on her face. "Your parents' reply has arrived!"

Ryujin's heart soared as she accepted the letter with trembling hands. She carefully broke the seal, her breath hitching as she unfolded the parchment.

The letter:

Dear Ryujin,

We received your letter with great urgency and are grateful for your openness. Your happiness means everything to us, and we have always wanted you to follow your heart.