Chapter 25: Echoes of the Past

The festival thrummed with life, laughter and music echoing through the palace grounds, but Seojin felt a growing chasm between the jubilant atmosphere and the turmoil stirring in his heart. Hojin’s words lingered like a shadow, casting doubt over the vibrant celebrations.

As Jaeha resumed mingling with guests, Seojin retreated to a quieter corner of the courtyard, seeking solace among the flowers blooming under the moonlight. The petals shimmered like stars, yet their beauty felt tainted, marred by the uncertainty that had settled over him.

“Seojin!” a familiar voice called, breaking through his thoughts. It was Lady Myung, her expression bright as she approached. “Why are you hiding? You should be enjoying the festivities.”

“I just needed a moment,” he replied, forcing a smile. “It’s a little overwhelming.”

She studied him closely, concern flickering in her eyes. “You look troubled. Is it about Jaeha?”

Seojin sighed, glancing back toward the crowd where his brother stood, effortlessly commanding attention and admiration. “No, it’s not Jaeha. It’s… Hojin. He confronted me earlier, and I can’t shake his words.”

Lady Myung stepped closer, her demeanor shifting from playful to serious. “Hojin is a snake, Seojin. His words are meant to sow discord and doubt. You cannot allow him to infiltrate your mind.”

“I know,” Seojin said, clenching his fists. “But what if he’s right? What if our bond isn’t accepted? I don’t want to be a burden to Jaeha or the kingdom.”

“You are not a burden,” she insisted, her voice firm. “You are a prince and an integral part of this kingdom’s future. Remember, love is a source of strength, not weakness. It binds people together, even in the darkest of times.”

Seojin nodded, her words resonating within him. “You’re right. I need to believe that. Jaeha and I can overcome this.”

“Exactly,” Lady Myung said, her smile returning. “Now, come! Let’s enjoy the festivities. You cannot let Hojin’s poison spoil tonight.”

With a renewed sense of determination, Seojin joined Lady Myung back into the heart of the festival. As they danced and celebrated, he found himself laughing, the weight on his shoulders lifting, if only for a moment. But the shadows still lingered at the edges of his mind, reminding him of the threats that lay ahead.

Later in the evening, Jaeha called for silence once more, ready to unveil the grand centerpiece of the festival—a magnificent firework display that would light up the night sky. Seojin stood at Jaeha’s side, their fingers brushing against each other, grounding him amidst the chaos of emotions.

As the first explosion of color lit the sky, a gasp rippled through the crowd, followed by cheers. The night transformed into a canvas of vibrant hues, reflecting in the eyes of the kingdom’s people. Seojin felt a surge of pride as he witnessed the joy they brought to his brother.

“Look at them, Seojin,” Jaeha said, his gaze fixed on the sky. “This is what we fight for—our people, our future.”

Seojin nodded, his heart swelling with warmth. “Yes. We’ll protect this happiness, Jaeha. No matter what it takes.”

But as the final firework exploded in a burst of shimmering light, a sudden commotion drew their attention. A group of nobles at the edge of the courtyard were whispering urgently, their expressions grim. Seojin’s heart sank as he caught snippets of their conversation—words like “Hojin” and “betrayal” floated through the air like poisoned darts.

“Jaeha,” Seojin whispered, urgency creeping into his voice. “What’s happening?”

Jaeha’s expression shifted, his brow furrowing as he moved closer to the source of the disturbance. “Stay close to me.”

As they approached, Seojin overheard Lord Chang, his voice laced with anger. “We cannot allow Hojin to undermine the festival! His actions threaten everything we’ve built!”

“Then what do you propose?” another noble replied, frustration etched on his face. “Do we confront him directly? He has too many allies, and his words are dangerous!”

Jaeha stepped forward, his voice rising above the murmurs. “What has Hojin done?”

The crowd fell silent, all eyes turning to the nobles gathered. Lord Chang stepped forward, his expression grave. “He’s been spreading rumors, saying that your bond with Prince Seojin is an abomination that will lead to the kingdom’s downfall. He’s trying to incite division among the nobles.”

Seojin’s heart dropped. Hojin was indeed trying to turn their own people against them. “We can’t let him get away with this,” he said, stepping beside Jaeha. “We need to confront him. We cannot let fear dictate our future.”

Jaeha nodded, a fierce determination burning in his eyes. “We will not let Hojin’s poison seep into the hearts of our people. We must show them the truth of our love and the strength it brings.”

As they turned to address the gathered nobles, Seojin felt a surge of resolve. They would face Hojin together, no longer as frightened twins but as a united front, ready to defend their bond against the encroaching darkness.

To be continued...