SHI YI'S POV
ANCIENT QINGZHEN
After the completion of the king's mission and the full eradication of the Wuyi witches, a celebration was held in honor of me and my comrades. We received thanks and recognition from the king, and a party was thrown with food, drinks, and music all at our disposal. I was supposed to enjoy the night, but the weight of the witch's words kept pressing down on me. "A curse of immortality?" a comrade exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief. "That sounds more like the great witch was stalling for her death. And even if it's true... immortality is no curse but a blessing," he added, and the rest nodded in agreement.
"Look, Shi Yi, don't overthink this. We know that the Wuyi witches are capable of most supernatural things, but providing immortality isn't one of them. Otherwise, why wouldn't they have it too?" Lee Yun, my close friend and sworn brother, chimed in, trying to lift my spirits. "Ahhh, this won't do. We're here to celebrate us, and most importantly, you! We can't have you lost in thoughts the entire night. Bring out the big mugs!" a comrade ordered, and everyone cheered.
"By the orders of the Wuyi Witch Hunting Bureau, we command you, comrade Shi Yi, to drink these two mugs of beer... non-stop with no rest! And if those aren't enough to cheer you up, refill them and have you drink them again!" he commanded, his voice booming over the laughter and excitement. "Come on, guys, you know very well that I can't drink all this..." I protested, but they started chanting loudly, banging on the tables, "DRINK DRINK DRINK!"I finally gave in to the pressure and downed the beer in both glasses. The cheers that erupted around me were deafening, and for a moment, the weight of the witch's curse faded into the background. They were right; I had spent two long years hunting down the Wuyi witches, facing danger and uncertainty at every turn. Now that they were wiped out, I deserved to celebrate and not let myself get stressed over some ridiculous curse.
As the laughter and music filled the air, I felt a rush of warmth and camaraderie. My comrades were right there with me, their faces lit up with joy, and I couldn't help but smile. I had fought hard, and now it was time to relish in the victory, to let go of the shadows that had haunted me. Immortality or not, I was alive in this moment, surrounded by friends who had become family. I raised my mug high, joining in the cheers, feeling the weight lift off my shoulders, if only for tonight.
*
*
We had an eventful night, and by morning, I could barely feel my head in the right place. "Shi Yi!!" someone called out, and I groaned, wishing for just a few more minutes of peace. "Shi Yi!!" they added again, and I slowly opened my eyes to see Lee Yun standing there, looking far too chipper for this early hour.
"What's wrong, Lee Yun? Why are you being loud this morning?" I muttered, sitting up and burying my face in my palms, trying to block out the light. "First, have this," he said, thrusting a bowl into my hands. I sniffed it and nearly gagged from the gross smell. "What's this?" I asked, my stomach churning at the thought of it.
"That's a hangover cure," he replied, urgency in his voice. "One you need to quickly take because the king needs to see us... all of us." I stared at the concoction in disgust, but I knew I had no choice. I swallowed it in one go, feeling it slide down my throat like a rock. After a quick shower to wash away the remnants of the night, I steeled myself and headed out to meet the rest....."Fix your collar," Lee Yun said as he adjusted it for me, his fingers deftly smoothing out the fabric. "And your hair," he added, pushing a few stray strands behind my ears. I appreciated his attention to detail, even if I felt like a mess.
"Are you both ready?" a comrade asked, breaking my focus.
"Yes..." I replied, turning to face him. But then I froze, my stomach dropping as I caught sight of what he was holding. "What's that?" I asked, disgust etched across my face.
"It's the head of Moon Kyung, the leader of the Wuyi witches," he said flatly. "You have to hold this as we march into the Qiyan." My heart raced. The Qiyan was a secluded place where the king held public gatherings, a sacred space rarely opened to anyone. This time, it was being opened to honor us and our achievements.
I took a deep breath, steeling myself for what I had to do. With a mix of pride and revulsion, I grasped the head firmly, feeling the weight of our victory in my hands. I led my comrades into the Qiyan, determination coursing through me. This was our moment, and I would carry it with dignity, no matter what it took.
As we entered, the cheers and applause from the crowd washed over me like a wave. I held out the head of the witch, a grim trophy that symbolized our hard-fought victory.
"On this beautiful morning, we gather here to welcome our brave warriors who took on a job that seemed too risky even for the royal guards," the announcer's voice boomed, echoing through the Qiyan. "They have achieved victory and saved the city of Qingzhen from the Wuyi witches, who were causing nothing but unrest. So put your hands together to welcome the Wuyi Witches Hunting Bureau!" The applause erupted again, and I turned to Lee Yun, pride swelling in my chest for both him and the rest of our team.
"So dear heroes, when you hear your name, come forward and attain your award," the announcer continued. My heart raced as the atmosphere shifted, anticipation filling the air. "Let's welcome our king," he added, and everyone stood up, bowing in respect.
"Thank you so much, everyone, and a very good morning to you. I'll proceed to read out the names of our dear heroes, and each will be bestowed with honor, praise, and gifts," the king said, his voice steady and commanding. My breath caught in my throat as he continued, "First and foremost is the young and brave Shi Yi. At only 30, she managed to lead this group through many dangerous missions and even to victory, finally slaying the Wuyi witches' leader, Moon Kyung."
My heart soared and sank at the same time as I stood up, the weight of the moment settling on my shoulders. "Come forward and get your golden scroll," the king added, and I felt the eyes of the entire assembly on me. Nervously, I made my way to the podium, every step echoing in my mind. This was it—my moment to shine, to honor the sacrifices of my comrades and the struggles we had faced together. I took a deep breath, ready to accept the recognition that came with our hard-won victory.....
"Do you, Mr. Shi Yi, accept this honor from the royal palace?" I was asked, and without hesitation, I replied, "Yes." As the scroll was handed to me, I felt a rush of pride mixed with nerves. The king extended his hand for me to shake, and in my moment of excitement, I quickly wiped my palm on my robe before reaching out.
The unexpected gesture drew laughter from the crowd, and I looked up to see even the king chuckling heartily. It was a light-hearted moment amidst the grandeur, and I couldn't help but smile. I realized that despite the seriousness of the occasion, we were all just people sharing in this joyous celebration.
"In addition to the scroll, the king would like you to have this too," the announcer continued, handing me a beautifully embossed card. "With this card, you can request anything from the king, and it shall be given to you." My heart raced at the thought of such power, and I couldn't help but wonder what I might ask for.....I nervously took the card and bowed to thank His Majesty, feeling the weight of the moment. The ceremony continued, and I watched as my comrades received their own recognitions, scrolls, and even gifts from the king. It was a day I knew I would cherish for the longest time. After the honorary ceremony, we moved to the banquet, hosted by the beautiful Princess Ailee.
As we settled in, one of my comrades raised a glass and said, "I can't believe that I almost didn't join the witch hunting bureau when you asked me back then... and now look at me! I've received recognition from the king and I currently own one of the largest fabric stores in Qingzhen." Cheers erupted around the table, and I felt a swell of pride. "Thank you so much, Shi Yi. If it wasn't for you and your leadership and guidance, we would never have achieved this." His words warmed my heart, and I couldn't help but smile. "That being said, I raise a toast to you," he added. "To Shi Yi!" The chorus of voices echoed around me, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude.
"Thank you all for your faith and belief in me. I was only able to lead you well because you trusted me. So thank you, and this victory isn't just mine, but ours," I said, raising my glass and taking a sip of the wine. "This is really fine wine," I commented, savoring the taste. Just then, a voice called out, and I turned to see Princess Ailee looking directly at me. Our eyes locked, and I was struck by her beauty up close; she was just as radiant as I had imagined. "Your Highness," we all said as we bowed down. "You may rise," she replied gracefully.
As I watched Ailee, I felt a mix of awe and nervousness. She was captivating, and her presence made the entire room feel alive. When she suggested we put aside the formalities, I couldn't help but smile. "Have a seat then your highness," I said, pulling out a chair for her, trying to keep my composure. But when she insisted I call her Ailee, it felt like a door had opened, making the moment more intimate.
As we locked eyes, I felt a spark that made it hard to look away. Just as I was about to say something, Lee Yun cleared his throat, pulling us back to the celebration. I poured her some wine, my hands slightly trembling as I tried to focus. "Cheers," she said, and I echoed her, our glasses clinking together, marking the start of a night that would linger in my memory.
Sitting beside her, I couldn't help but steal glances, captivated by her laughter and the way she seemed to light up the room. When she caught me staring and asked if I was going to dance with her, I felt my heart race. Flustered, I stood up, offering my hand, "May I have this dance with you... Your highness?" I quickly corrected myself, "I mean Princess Ailee." Her playful response made me feel at ease, and as she took my hand, leading me to the dance floor, I knew this was a moment I would cherish forever.
As we began to sway to the rhythm, I focused on her, the way her eyes sparkled in the candlelight and how her laughter filled the air. It was as if the world around us faded away, leaving just the two of us in our own little bubble. I couldn't help but feel a connection, one that went beyond the titles and the ceremony....
*
*
The next morning, as I sat down for breakfast, Lee Yun's teasing voice broke through my thoughts. "So you and Princess Ailee..." he said playfully, a smirk on his face. I feigned ignorance, raising an eyebrow. "Me and Princess Ailee what?" I asked, trying to keep a straight face.
He leaned in, clearly enjoying this. "What do you mean? We all saw how the both of you were flirting with each other yesterday... at the banquet." A smile crept across my face as I recalled our interactions, the way she laughed and looked at me. It felt like magic.
"Do you like her?" he asked, his curiosity genuine. I paused for a moment, considering my answer. "Maybe..." I replied, teasing him just a bit, enjoying the anticipation I could see in his eyes. "Maybe?" he echoed, and I couldn't help but chuckle softly at his enthusiasm....."Fine, I do like her... but do you think the king can hand over his one and only daughter to me?" I asked, feeling a mix of hope and doubt.
"Why not? You just eradicated the Wuyi witches from Qingzhen. That's something even his own royal guards were afraid to do. You're the bravest and most handsome man in Qingzhen, and definitely the most suitable suitor for Princess Ailee. Plus, she likes you... I could tell," he reassured me.
His words washed over me like a warm wave...
"Plus, you always use the request card," he said, raising an eyebrow.
"I don't need a card to get the king to like me for his daughter. You just listed all my good qualities; those are more than enough to impress him. Plus, I am using the card for something else," I replied, trying to keep my tone light.
"Have you always decided on what?" he questioned, curiosity evident in his voice.
"Yes..." I replied as I stood up, feeling a sense of determination.
"Can I ask what?" he pressed.
"It's a secret. I'll reveal it to you once I get it," I said, watching as he sighed in disappointment.
"It better not be anything dangerous..." he warned, concern lacing his words.
"It's not... trust me," I reassured him.
"The last time I trusted you... you went in front of the king and asked to be given the order to take down the Wuyi witches... something you weren't even trained for," he reminded me, a hint of exasperation in his voice.
"Yah, and look how that turned out! What I am going to ask from the king isn't something dangerous. I'm just going to take back what once belonged to me," I said with a confident smirk as I turned to leave.
Later that afternoon, I requested an audience with the king. As I knelt down in front of him, I presented the request card with a steady hand.
"What is it that you would like to request for, Mr. Shi Yi?" he asked, his tone regal yet curious.
I lifted my head, meeting his gaze with determination. "Your Highness, I'd like to take back something that once belonged to me but was wrongfully taken from me."
"And what may that be?" he questioned, his interest piqued.
"The Shi family residence... that's now occupied by Lord Shi Ran," I said confidently, my heart racing but my voice steady...
"And may I ask how it was wrongfully taken from you?" he inquired, his gaze piercing through me.
I took a deep breath, recalling the painful memories. "My parents... Lord Shi Zhiheng and Lady Hairan died when I was ten years old. I couldn't understand anything back then, but I remember Lord Shi Ran coming to our home, claiming everything belonged to him. He sent me to a welfare house, where I stayed until I turned eighteen." The words felt heavy on my tongue, but I pressed on. "When I was old enough to comprehend the situation, I received a letter from my father's friend. It revealed the real will, showing that I was supposed to be the rightful heir to everything, not my uncle."
The king's brow furrowed as he asked, "If that's the case, then what took you so long to bring this issue forward? You could have taken him to court."
"I wanted to," I replied, frustration creeping into my voice. "But I didn't have the power to do so. He could manipulate the situation however he wanted."
"Then do you have this letter and the will?" he pressed, his tone shifting to one of authority.
"Yes, Your Highness," I said, my hands trembling slightly as I produced the documents. "I brought them with me." I replied
"Then please present them to me," he commanded, his voice firm yet curious.
I stepped forward, handing him the letter and the will. As he examined the documents, I felt a mix of anxiety and hope. This was the moment I had been waiting for, the chance to reclaim what was rightfully mine.
After a few moments of silence, he looked up, his expression serious. "These documents appear to be in order. However, I must ask, what do you intend to do once you regain your family's estate? How will you manage it?"
"I plan to restore it to its former glory and ensure that it serves the community, just as my parents intended. I want to create a place where people can come together, not just for my benefit but for everyone who needs it," I explained passionately, feeling the weight of my family's legacy on my shoulders.
The king nodded, seemingly impressed. "Very well. I will consider your request and the evidence you have provided. However, I must also hear from Lord Shi Ran before making a final decision. He has the right to defend his claim."
"I understand, Your Highness. I just ask for a fair hearing," I replied, my heart racing at the thought of facing my uncle.
"Very well. You shall have your hearing. I will summon Lord Shi Ran to present his side of the story. Until then, you may leave," he said, dismissing me with a wave of his hand.
As I turned to leave, I felt a surge of determination. This was just the beginning of my fight to reclaim my family's legacy.
*
*
"Is what I heard true...are you going up against Lord Shi Ran?" Lee Yun questioned, and I nodded in response.
"Hey!! Do you have any idea what you're doing? He is a dangerous man...who can get you killed even before the start of the trial..." he replied, concern etched on his face.
"Well, I'm scary too... He just has to try and mess with me, and he will see," I shot back, a fire igniting within me.
He let out a deep sigh, clearly exasperated. "Are all those praises of bravery going to your head?"
"I have to do this... and now that I've started, I'm not backing out," I asserted, feeling resolute.
"Shi Yi, you stress me out," he said, running a hand through his hair.
"I know... but don't worry. I have a strong feeling I'm going to win this time," I said, confidence surging through me.
"Well then, I guess I have no choice but to stand next to you," he replied, a hint of a smile breaking through his worry.
"Like you always do," I said, returning his smile.
He playfully slapped me on the shoulder, and I exclaimed, "Hey!!"
We both burst into laughter, the tension easing momentarily.
*
*
The trial arrived as promised, and the verdict was passed... in my favor. I could hardly believe it. Lord Noo Shi Ran was ordered to evacuate the residence with immediate effect and to step down voluntarily from his position as the Lord of Qingzhen. I stood in the courthouse, tears welling up in my eyes, overwhelmed by the reality that a battle I thought was impossible to win had finally turned in my favor.
As I processed everything, I noticed my uncle making his way toward me, a fierce glare in his eyes. He smirked, tapping me on the shoulder, and said, "This isn't over yet, kid..."
I brushed his hand off and glared back at him, my voice steady as I replied, "It seems pretty over to me." He turned and walked out, leaving me with a mix of relief and lingering tension. I let out a deep sigh, feeling the weight of the moment.
Just then, Lee Yun tapped me on the shoulder. I turned to him, and despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I smiled. His presence reminded me that I wasn't alone in this victory.
I was at a point in my life where everything was going so well that I had almost forgotten about Moon Kyung's curse. The trials and tribulations I had faced seemed like a distant memory, overshadowed by the joy of my recent victory. But deep down, a nagging feeling lingered, reminding me that the past was never truly behind me. I had to stay vigilant, for curses have a way of resurfacing when you least expect them. Yet, in this moment of triumph, I allowed myself to bask in the light of my success, hoping it would shield me from any dark shadows lurking in the corners of my mind.