February 4th, 564

Hello, dear diary. Today is my birthday, and I'm turning ten. Yesterday was a very sad day. Father—well, the Patriarch—wasn't here; he's been away on a trip for a week. But why was my day so sad? It's because Mama left yesterday. She had been very weak for the past few days because she got sick after being caught in the rain.

(Tears begin to stain the diary.)

Then, she went to sleep and didn't wake up. Later, some people from the clan came and took her away. I think they were preparing a better bed for her to rest in because afterward, they brought a wooden bed, closed it, and buried it.

(The tears grow heavier, and the sobbing cannot be held back.)

I tried to stop them, but they didn't let me. One of the guards said Mama was just sleeping. I asked him when she would wake up and why they were burying her. He said it was so she could rest better and that the burial was to ensure her rest wouldn't be disturbed. He said Mama was so tired that she would need to sleep for a very, very long time, but that she was happy now.

I told him that was a lie. I shouted at him, saying that even though Mama was sick, she was fine and happy—she didn't need to rest for that long! I got so angry. I argued with him, screamed, and tried to run to Mama, but they stopped me.

That's why I'm a little sad now. All Mama left me before she went to sleep was a necklace with something round that looks like a coin and a promise I have to fulfill: to become the Patriarch, be recognized, and, most importantly, to live a happy life.

So now, I have to work hard to become the Patriarch and make Mama proud. Maybe then she'll come back.

(The tears are wiped away, and he looks determined.)

Until next time, dear diary.

Signed: Yong Namgung.