Bu Bu Jing Xin - Chapter 5
CHAPTER 5, PART 2:
A fortnight later, Kyuhyun was in the palace. It was huge, he had visited before in the future, when it was just a national monument, a museum, but he hadn’t really grasped the enormity of everything; the amount of guards that lined every wall, the amount of people that were walking around. He had visited when the place was empty, dead, a shell. Now it was alive and bustling with activity happening everywhere. He walked beside ZhouMi, who was walking behind Heechul and Donghae, who in turn were following Hangeng. Other princes and their families were also walking towards the throne room. Hangeng and Heechul greeted a few people that they recognised, but ZhouMi kept silent as he had no friends in the city. The courtyard between the entrance and the main hall had a grand raised walkway centred across it which led people from one side to the other. The red of the walls and the yellow of the rooftops were brighter than they were in the future, newer, less worn away by the elements. Kyuhyun kept silent as he looked at everything in awe.
The Mid-Autumn festival celebrated the harvest and the moon. Families gathered and feasted under the full moon, reciting poetry and giving thanks for harmonious unions and the harvest. People used this time to pray for children, longevity and a bright future. That Kyuhyun was invited to attend was a great honour given that only the Imperial family, though vast in size, would be the only ones present. Not even the most important officials in the land would be attending.
He followed the others as they entered the throne room, the golden throne was raised on a platform on one side and designed with dragons, the imperial symbol. Wooden panels which continued the intricate carving lined the walls behind and small steps led from the main floor up to the seat. All of the Emperor’s family settled into neat lines forming a grid pattern on the floor in front of where their patriarch would soon sit. A thin man garbed in deep blue servant’s robes yet with a fur collar entered from a door to the side of the large throne and called the room to attention, “The Emperor is about to enter, all hail His Imperial Majesty, Kangin.”
Kyuhyun followed a half second behind everybody as all fell to their knees and touched their heads to the floor chanting in unison, “All hail Imperial Father.” Everybody rose in unison but remain in their stiff standing positions, heads bowed, not daring to look directly at their lord. A few princes wished their fathers good health and thanked their father for planning a grand feast for the festival. The Emperor, who Kyuhyun was peeking while trying to be inconspicuous, was heavyset and had a handsome face. He probably looked incredible when he was younger, Kyuhyun mused, then realised that his observation of one of the most powerful and famous Emperors in China’s history was that he was good-looking. He mentally slapped himself for his priority list. The man had a scary look, cold and fierce, but Kyuhyun had expected that. This man became Emperor at 8 years old and would rule for over 60 years, he would expand China and bring it into a golden age. He didn’t expect smiles and rainbows. While he was once again musing, he failed to remember to stop staring, the Emperor suddenly looked him straight in the eye, causing his heart to jolt and for him to stiffen with panic.
“You!” Kangin pointed directly at him, beckoning him forward. Kyuhyun cursed his curiosity as lowly walked to the clear patch of floor directly before the throne, not noticing the worried glances of Sungmin, Eunhyuk and ZhouMi. He bowed deeply praying that his lack of knowledge and his idiotic brain wouldn’t cause him to blurt something out that would get him punished. Kangin took his time to examine the boy before him asking, “Are you the one they call death-seeking Thirteenth’s twin?”
“Yes, your Majesty. Apparently I have been given this name.” Kyuhyun quickly answered, hoping that the Emperor wasn’t mad and was just curious. Why did the Emperor even know who he was? Why did the Emperor even care?
“Are you scared of me?” Kangin asked, genuinely interested in what the answer would be. This question often made people squirm, there was no right response. This boy had gained a reputation as being fearless and outspoken, so he waited and let the boy think.
“I subject should not be scared of a wise ruler. A wise ruler would never punish a person who had not wronged. However I am intimidated by the grandeur of the palace as I have never entered this place before, forgive me if I seem shaken.” Kyuhyun spoke clearly, tentatively raising his face to look at Kangin, hoping that the Emperor would not take offence at his words, he had no idea what to say to this person who could easily kill him.
There was a pause as everybody looked at the front of the room waiting for the verdict before laughter boomed out of Kangin. “Your answer is certainly different, however I don’t think you have earned the title of Thirteenth’s twin. What do you think, Changmin?” Kangin called to his thirteenth son and beckoned him to come up alongside Kyuhyun, who was studying the floor in great detail.
“I find Kyuhyun to be interesting, Imperial Father. He is intelligent and sharp, I would be proud to call him my twin.” Changmin smoothly complimented the other, who was thanking the taller profusely in his head.
“Very well then, Changmin gave you his approval. Your reply was fresh compared to what others have said in response to the same question. Let this boy be rewarded.” He spoke to the servant with the fur collar who had remained stationed at his side. “Dismissed,” he directed at Kyuhyun, waving him back to his previous position as he started to talk once again with his other children.
After mingling with the other families, with ZhouMi exchanging greetings with some other wives, everybody was led to the main courtyard behind the hall. Tables were spaced around the area, with a raised platform on one side set aside for the Emperor and his sons. The platform had a grand throne placed in the centre, much like the throne room, except this one was a deep mahogany though still covered with intricate patterns. Two smaller but just as intricately carved seats were placed either side of the wide throne, only two of his many wives would have the pleasure of joining their husband on the central stage. Tables formed a horseshoe around the throne so that the Emperor could see all his sons as well as the main floor.
Kyuhyun sat beside Mi, gazing around at everything in awe. Heechul and Donghae had sat themselves down on the opposite side of the court, putting a distance between the two pairs of siblings. Lanterns and paper decorations hung on every wall and on strings hanging over their heads. The food placed on all the tables smelled and looked heavenly, causing Kyuhyun to itch, wanting to start eating already.
The Emperor appeared, causing everybody to rise and bow, followed by two incredibly beautiful women, who Kyuhyun assumed were two of his consorts, the servant with the fur collar, who Kyuhyun noticed had a dimpled smile and behind them were his sons, all of whom seemed in good spirits, grinning and joking with each other. They all settled into their seats before the Emperor called everybody to relax and seat themselves as well. He praised the moon and the goddess Chan’ge while he split a moon cake that his primary servant had placed in his hand, placing the pieces back on the tray that he had removed the cake from. As the smiling servant offered each prince a portion of the cake, the Emperor expressed his desire for a happy and united family. He talked of brotherly love and how he wished for all his sons to continue to support each other and to think of the welfare of their Empire at all times. He finished his talk by asking everybody to enjoy the feast and to show their familial affection to each other this night.
The servants rushed forward to pour wine for all the guests as Kyuhyun quietly asked ZhouMi who everybody was. “The two women are the Imperial Noble Consorts Yuri and Yoona, Yuri was the one who raised Eunhyuk, though neither have any sons of their own.” ZhouMi told him, pointing first at the smiling woman then at the one with the doll like face.
“What about the servant?” Kyuhyun motioned towards the man who was personally serving the Emperor.
“He is Head Eunuch Leeteuk. He is in charge of every servant in the palace and also personally serves the Emperor. The Emperor trusts him above most others, listening to him when he ignores others.”
The paused as they listened to one of the Princes come forward and recite a poetry piece that described the beauty of Chan’ge, the goddess of the moon. “Do all the princes have to speak?” Kyuhyun enquired as he started to eat the delicious delicacies in front of him.
“Yes, all the princes will say something for their father. Don’t eat too fast, remember your manners.” Mi tapped the back of his younger brother’s hand as it darted out to grab another cake.
“Mmmm, this all tastes so good though gege,” groaned the younger, looking up with unapologetic and irrepressible eyes.
“Tsk. How will you survive without me? You’ll be living in the palace soon,” Mimi complained.
“Don’t talk about that,” Kyuhyun pouted, suddenly upset at the thought of having to leave the older.
“You’ll have to think about it soon, the maiden selections are in the New Year,” earning him a hard glare from his Didi. “Fine, but you can’t avoid it Kyunnie,” ZhouMi used the younger’s baby name to show that the he thought the other was acting childish but that he would let him for now.
“I won’t.” Before Kyuhyun broke into a cheeky grin, deciding to change the gloomy atmosphere that had settled on them, “Love you ge.”
Mimi broke into giggles at Kyuhyun’s expression but didn’t say anything as Kyuhyun silenced himself to watch Eunhyuk who had just rose to speak to the Emperor. He approached the throne, raised his cup and spoke, “Since I am not good with fancy words like my brothers, I will speak clearly in common tongue. I wish for Imperial Father to live a long and bountiful life. To your good health.” He bowed and raised his glass before drinking to his toast.
Kangin laughed in good spirits, “Thank you for your wish my son. I know you are not good at remembering verses like your brothers.” Eunhyuk coloured at his father’s jab. “You are getting older Eunhyuk, don’t you think it is time for you to acquire a Di’fujin. The Ninth Prince was your age when I granted his petition.”
Eunhyuk tensed even further at the words, worry flooding him. The Emperor never said anything lightly, so this must mean the Emperor was suggesting he married, and soon, “I am still young, Imperial Father. I will consider your suggestion.”
Yuri spoke up from Kangin’s side, “I was speaking to your cousin, Miyoung, and she mentioned that her youngest Donghae is of age to marry now. Do you not think they would be a good match, my Lord?”
“Miyoung’s child would be perfect as Eunhyuk’s Di’fujin. What better match could either of them make?” Yoona, added from his other side, supporting Yuri.
Eunhyuk paled as he heard the two Consorts match him. His brothers seemed to grow restless around him, shifting in their seats at the suggestion. Donghae was well known to be difficult, with many laughing at the ‘poor soul’ who would marry him. However he had an impeccable background and family. His grandfather and father were both close to the Emperor, the grandfather even serving as his regent for a period when the Emperor was a child. His mother was this Emperor’s first cousin, close with several of the wives. No one could ask for a more suitable or prestigious wife. Except for Eunhyuk, he was in love with someone else, his brothers may have teased him but they all knew that Eunhyuk liked Kyuhyun. He didn’t even bother to hide his interest from anyone except Kyuhyun anymore.
Kangin looked contemplative, pleased at the suggestion, as the son before him started to stutter a protest, “Imperial Father, I-I a-am st-st-still-”. He didn’t have an argument, what could he say to reject such a generous match? Dislike had never stopped a marriage before.
“What are you trying to say? Why are looking like you are protesting?” Kangin barked out, easily annoyed by people fighting against him.
Hangeng rose quickly from his seat, saving his brother from an angry Kangin, “He isn’t protesting Father, he is merely shocked. He has consumed a vast amount of wine, it is easily to be confused. Tomorrow, when he is himself he will be thankful.” Eunhyuk’s face fell as he listened to his favourite brother. Hangeng always supported him, he always protected him. If he wasn’t able to find an objection then no one could, he was bound to Donghae. There was no escape.
His face hardened and became set as he fell to his knees and bowed, “Thank you Imperial Father, I am eternally grateful.”
The whole celebration had quietened by this point, all watching as the Emperor matched his Tenth son with Kim Donghae. Kangin called out, “Kim Donghae, come forward.”
Donghae who had been looking shocked and upset, also set his face to a mask. It became a handsome smile that looked genuine but Kyuhyun could tell was fake by the eyes that seemed hard as ice. He walked gracefully and slowly up the steps leading to the throne, joining Eunhyuk on his knees before the Emperor.
“I declare you betrothed. I will grant you a new estate. I hope your marriage is fruitfully blessed.” Kangin smiled happily down at the two of them leading them to once again bow and thank him for his generosity.
Kyuhyun had been frozen in shock as he had watched his friend be married without any choice. Eunhyuk had no way to say that he didn’t want to marry Donghae, Donghae had no way of saying that he didn’t wish to marry Eunhyuk either. Kangin had flippantly decided in less than a minute to bind two people who hated each other together for the rest of their lives. Kyuhyun hated this life. He hated Kangin at that moment and wanted nothing more to stand up and yell about the unfairness of this. Why did no one argue? Would he be forced to marry someone like this? Would he know who he got married to? He wondered whether it would be an official, a general, a governor. The whims of the Emperor governed them all. It only just hit him how little control he had as a single teardrop fell onto the back of his hand.
A/N: Pics of the Forbidden City: here, here and here
A fortnight later, Kyuhyun was in the palace. It was huge, he had visited before in the future, when it was just a national monument, a museum, but he hadn’t really grasped the enormity of everything; the amount of guards that lined every wall, the amount of people that were walking around. He had visited when the place was empty, dead, a shell. Now it was alive and bustling with activity happening everywhere. He walked beside ZhouMi, who was walking behind Heechul and Donghae, who in turn were following Hangeng. Other princes and their families were also walking towards the throne room. Hangeng and Heechul greeted a few people that they recognised, but ZhouMi kept silent as he had no friends in the city. The courtyard between the entrance and the main hall had a grand raised walkway centred across it which led people from one side to the other. The red of the walls and the yellow of the rooftops were brighter than they were in the future, newer, less worn away by the elements. Kyuhyun kept silent as he looked at everything in awe.
The Mid-Autumn festival celebrated the harvest and the moon. Families gathered and feasted under the full moon, reciting poetry and giving thanks for harmonious unions and the harvest. People used this time to pray for children, longevity and a bright future. That Kyuhyun was invited to attend was a great honour given that only the Imperial family, though vast in size, would be the only ones present. Not even the most important officials in the land would be attending.
He followed the others as they entered the throne room, the golden throne was raised on a platform on one side and designed with dragons, the imperial symbol. Wooden panels which continued the intricate carving lined the walls behind and small steps led from the main floor up to the seat. All of the Emperor’s family settled into neat lines forming a grid pattern on the floor in front of where their patriarch would soon sit. A thin man garbed in deep blue servant’s robes yet with a fur collar entered from a door to the side of the large throne and called the room to attention, “The Emperor is about to enter, all hail His Imperial Majesty, Kangin.”
Kyuhyun followed a half second behind everybody as all fell to their knees and touched their heads to the floor chanting in unison, “All hail Imperial Father.” Everybody rose in unison but remain in their stiff standing positions, heads bowed, not daring to look directly at their lord. A few princes wished their fathers good health and thanked their father for planning a grand feast for the festival. The Emperor, who Kyuhyun was peeking while trying to be inconspicuous, was heavyset and had a handsome face. He probably looked incredible when he was younger, Kyuhyun mused, then realised that his observation of one of the most powerful and famous Emperors in China’s history was that he was good-looking. He mentally slapped himself for his priority list. The man had a scary look, cold and fierce, but Kyuhyun had expected that. This man became Emperor at 8 years old and would rule for over 60 years, he would expand China and bring it into a golden age. He didn’t expect smiles and rainbows. While he was once again musing, he failed to remember to stop staring, the Emperor suddenly looked him straight in the eye, causing his heart to jolt and for him to stiffen with panic.
“You!” Kangin pointed directly at him, beckoning him forward. Kyuhyun cursed his curiosity as lowly walked to the clear patch of floor directly before the throne, not noticing the worried glances of Sungmin, Eunhyuk and ZhouMi. He bowed deeply praying that his lack of knowledge and his idiotic brain wouldn’t cause him to blurt something out that would get him punished. Kangin took his time to examine the boy before him asking, “Are you the one they call death-seeking Thirteenth’s twin?”
“Yes, your Majesty. Apparently I have been given this name.” Kyuhyun quickly answered, hoping that the Emperor wasn’t mad and was just curious. Why did the Emperor even know who he was? Why did the Emperor even care?
“Are you scared of me?” Kangin asked, genuinely interested in what the answer would be. This question often made people squirm, there was no right response. This boy had gained a reputation as being fearless and outspoken, so he waited and let the boy think.
“I subject should not be scared of a wise ruler. A wise ruler would never punish a person who had not wronged. However I am intimidated by the grandeur of the palace as I have never entered this place before, forgive me if I seem shaken.” Kyuhyun spoke clearly, tentatively raising his face to look at Kangin, hoping that the Emperor would not take offence at his words, he had no idea what to say to this person who could easily kill him.
There was a pause as everybody looked at the front of the room waiting for the verdict before laughter boomed out of Kangin. “Your answer is certainly different, however I don’t think you have earned the title of Thirteenth’s twin. What do you think, Changmin?” Kangin called to his thirteenth son and beckoned him to come up alongside Kyuhyun, who was studying the floor in great detail.
“I find Kyuhyun to be interesting, Imperial Father. He is intelligent and sharp, I would be proud to call him my twin.” Changmin smoothly complimented the other, who was thanking the taller profusely in his head.
“Very well then, Changmin gave you his approval. Your reply was fresh compared to what others have said in response to the same question. Let this boy be rewarded.” He spoke to the servant with the fur collar who had remained stationed at his side. “Dismissed,” he directed at Kyuhyun, waving him back to his previous position as he started to talk once again with his other children.
After mingling with the other families, with ZhouMi exchanging greetings with some other wives, everybody was led to the main courtyard behind the hall. Tables were spaced around the area, with a raised platform on one side set aside for the Emperor and his sons. The platform had a grand throne placed in the centre, much like the throne room, except this one was a deep mahogany though still covered with intricate patterns. Two smaller but just as intricately carved seats were placed either side of the wide throne, only two of his many wives would have the pleasure of joining their husband on the central stage. Tables formed a horseshoe around the throne so that the Emperor could see all his sons as well as the main floor.
Kyuhyun sat beside Mi, gazing around at everything in awe. Heechul and Donghae had sat themselves down on the opposite side of the court, putting a distance between the two pairs of siblings. Lanterns and paper decorations hung on every wall and on strings hanging over their heads. The food placed on all the tables smelled and looked heavenly, causing Kyuhyun to itch, wanting to start eating already.
The Emperor appeared, causing everybody to rise and bow, followed by two incredibly beautiful women, who Kyuhyun assumed were two of his consorts, the servant with the fur collar, who Kyuhyun noticed had a dimpled smile and behind them were his sons, all of whom seemed in good spirits, grinning and joking with each other. They all settled into their seats before the Emperor called everybody to relax and seat themselves as well. He praised the moon and the goddess Chan’ge while he split a moon cake that his primary servant had placed in his hand, placing the pieces back on the tray that he had removed the cake from. As the smiling servant offered each prince a portion of the cake, the Emperor expressed his desire for a happy and united family. He talked of brotherly love and how he wished for all his sons to continue to support each other and to think of the welfare of their Empire at all times. He finished his talk by asking everybody to enjoy the feast and to show their familial affection to each other this night.
The servants rushed forward to pour wine for all the guests as Kyuhyun quietly asked ZhouMi who everybody was. “The two women are the Imperial Noble Consorts Yuri and Yoona, Yuri was the one who raised Eunhyuk, though neither have any sons of their own.” ZhouMi told him, pointing first at the smiling woman then at the one with the doll like face.
“What about the servant?” Kyuhyun motioned towards the man who was personally serving the Emperor.
“He is Head Eunuch Leeteuk. He is in charge of every servant in the palace and also personally serves the Emperor. The Emperor trusts him above most others, listening to him when he ignores others.”
The paused as they listened to one of the Princes come forward and recite a poetry piece that described the beauty of Chan’ge, the goddess of the moon. “Do all the princes have to speak?” Kyuhyun enquired as he started to eat the delicious delicacies in front of him.
“Yes, all the princes will say something for their father. Don’t eat too fast, remember your manners.” Mi tapped the back of his younger brother’s hand as it darted out to grab another cake.
“Mmmm, this all tastes so good though gege,” groaned the younger, looking up with unapologetic and irrepressible eyes.
“Tsk. How will you survive without me? You’ll be living in the palace soon,” Mimi complained.
“Don’t talk about that,” Kyuhyun pouted, suddenly upset at the thought of having to leave the older.
“You’ll have to think about it soon, the maiden selections are in the New Year,” earning him a hard glare from his Didi. “Fine, but you can’t avoid it Kyunnie,” ZhouMi used the younger’s baby name to show that the he thought the other was acting childish but that he would let him for now.
“I won’t.” Before Kyuhyun broke into a cheeky grin, deciding to change the gloomy atmosphere that had settled on them, “Love you ge.”
Mimi broke into giggles at Kyuhyun’s expression but didn’t say anything as Kyuhyun silenced himself to watch Eunhyuk who had just rose to speak to the Emperor. He approached the throne, raised his cup and spoke, “Since I am not good with fancy words like my brothers, I will speak clearly in common tongue. I wish for Imperial Father to live a long and bountiful life. To your good health.” He bowed and raised his glass before drinking to his toast.
Kangin laughed in good spirits, “Thank you for your wish my son. I know you are not good at remembering verses like your brothers.” Eunhyuk coloured at his father’s jab. “You are getting older Eunhyuk, don’t you think it is time for you to acquire a Di’fujin. The Ninth Prince was your age when I granted his petition.”
Eunhyuk tensed even further at the words, worry flooding him. The Emperor never said anything lightly, so this must mean the Emperor was suggesting he married, and soon, “I am still young, Imperial Father. I will consider your suggestion.”
Yuri spoke up from Kangin’s side, “I was speaking to your cousin, Miyoung, and she mentioned that her youngest Donghae is of age to marry now. Do you not think they would be a good match, my Lord?”
“Miyoung’s child would be perfect as Eunhyuk’s Di’fujin. What better match could either of them make?” Yoona, added from his other side, supporting Yuri.
Eunhyuk paled as he heard the two Consorts match him. His brothers seemed to grow restless around him, shifting in their seats at the suggestion. Donghae was well known to be difficult, with many laughing at the ‘poor soul’ who would marry him. However he had an impeccable background and family. His grandfather and father were both close to the Emperor, the grandfather even serving as his regent for a period when the Emperor was a child. His mother was this Emperor’s first cousin, close with several of the wives. No one could ask for a more suitable or prestigious wife. Except for Eunhyuk, he was in love with someone else, his brothers may have teased him but they all knew that Eunhyuk liked Kyuhyun. He didn’t even bother to hide his interest from anyone except Kyuhyun anymore.
Kangin looked contemplative, pleased at the suggestion, as the son before him started to stutter a protest, “Imperial Father, I-I a-am st-st-still-”. He didn’t have an argument, what could he say to reject such a generous match? Dislike had never stopped a marriage before.
“What are you trying to say? Why are looking like you are protesting?” Kangin barked out, easily annoyed by people fighting against him.
Hangeng rose quickly from his seat, saving his brother from an angry Kangin, “He isn’t protesting Father, he is merely shocked. He has consumed a vast amount of wine, it is easily to be confused. Tomorrow, when he is himself he will be thankful.” Eunhyuk’s face fell as he listened to his favourite brother. Hangeng always supported him, he always protected him. If he wasn’t able to find an objection then no one could, he was bound to Donghae. There was no escape.
His face hardened and became set as he fell to his knees and bowed, “Thank you Imperial Father, I am eternally grateful.”
The whole celebration had quietened by this point, all watching as the Emperor matched his Tenth son with Kim Donghae. Kangin called out, “Kim Donghae, come forward.”
Donghae who had been looking shocked and upset, also set his face to a mask. It became a handsome smile that looked genuine but Kyuhyun could tell was fake by the eyes that seemed hard as ice. He walked gracefully and slowly up the steps leading to the throne, joining Eunhyuk on his knees before the Emperor.
“I declare you betrothed. I will grant you a new estate. I hope your marriage is fruitfully blessed.” Kangin smiled happily down at the two of them leading them to once again bow and thank him for his generosity.
Kyuhyun had been frozen in shock as he had watched his friend be married without any choice. Eunhyuk had no way to say that he didn’t want to marry Donghae, Donghae had no way of saying that he didn’t wish to marry Eunhyuk either. Kangin had flippantly decided in less than a minute to bind two people who hated each other together for the rest of their lives. Kyuhyun hated this life. He hated Kangin at that moment and wanted nothing more to stand up and yell about the unfairness of this. Why did no one argue? Would he be forced to marry someone like this? Would he know who he got married to? He wondered whether it would be an official, a general, a governor. The whims of the Emperor governed them all. It only just hit him how little control he had as a single teardrop fell onto the back of his hand.
A/N: Pics of the Forbidden City: here, here and here
