Twenty-Nine Years Later
The setting sun casts a golden hue over the Jang Family Memorial House. Ji-Hoon and Ji-Soo knelt before their parents' altar, the fragrant smoke of incense curling upward, mingling with their whispered prayers. Today marked a bittersweet reunion, not just with their parents' memories, but with the weight of the world pressing upon them.
"They are finally together again," Ji-Soo exclaimed, her voice a blend of joy and sorrow. She had blossomed into a striking young woman, embodying the intelligence of their father and the street smarts of their mother. Those who admired her often remarked how she mirrored her father's spirit.
"Father waited for Mother for five years. At least they are holding hands again." Ji-Hoon wrapped his arms around her, the warmth of their bond a comforting reminder of their shared history. He bore their mother's traits—impatient yet fiercely loyal, with kindness that extended to every corner of their community. To those who observed him, he was as striking as their mother.
Both twins had inherited their parents' strength and charisma, their father's battle prowess, and their mother's considerate heart.
Just then, the door creaked open, and a servant stepped inside. "Young Master, Young Lady... your cousin Queen Young-Ju has just arrived."
The wide doors swung open and gave way to an elegant woman. A woman who, in her younger years, roamed the marketplaces selling jasmine garlands and love talismans. Now, twenty-nine years later, she has grown to be a wise, fair, and fierce ruler...Queen Kim Young-Ju.
"Your Majesty," they bowed and greeted in unison, the respect in their voices reflecting the bond of family.
The queen picked up several incense sticks and lit them all. She bowed to her aunt's memorial altar and placed it on the incense holder. She did the same to her parents and uncle's altars.
After offering a prayer to their elders, she turned to her cousins; her smile radiant as she opened her arms and embraced them. "How are the two of you holding up? I hope her last days were filled with happiness."
"Mother was quiet, but she often smiled. The thought of reuniting with father made her happy." Ji-Hoon answered
Ji-Soo continued, "At times she was sad because she knew she was going to leave the two of us...."
"...but she was confident that they raised us to be capable individuals," Jin-Hoon interjected
"Which is why she was able to leave peacefully and without any unfinished tasks." Ji-Soo finally finished
Ji-Hoon took a step forward. "Mom was the one who handled the daily affairs of the household. Things are going to be a bit different now that Mom is with Dad in heaven..."
Ji-Soo seamlessly finished, "...but I know we can manage and pull through. They both taught us how to handle the family business. Not to mention, Aunt Yeng will be around; she promised to help us."
Queen Young-Ju smiled and nodded, "I missed you both." Her affection enveloped them, a soothing balm on their hearts.
"I'm happy to hear that." The queen's expression turned serious as she took their hands. "I wish I were here to mourn with the two of you, but I'm afraid, things are not that simple." Young-Ju paused and took a deep breath. "I received word from General Gi Kwan three days ago, The Guiong legions are massing on our eastern borders as we speak."
The twins shared alarmed glances. "I'm here to take the two of you back to the capital. I need your help. Peace talks with Guiong about trade agreements have broken down, and now they have declared war on us. They will reach the eastern borders in two weeks."
The twins exchanged resolute glances, the fire of determination igniting within them. Ji-Hoon's voice rang out clearly. "When do..."
"...we leave?" Ji-Soo interjected, her eyes sparkling with the thrill of adventure.
"Now," Young-Ju replied, a steely glint in her eyes. "We have a kingdom to protect."
And with that, the three of them stepped into the unknown, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, united by blood and purpose.