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Vignettes / Re: Asadal Playhouse
« Last post by paralipomena on March 26, 2024, 06:37:18 PM »Heavenly Palace, Hwangjin
Grand King Wonhyo awaints in the Throne Hall in the Heavenly Palace. Along him, there is merely Prince Yun. Two guards bring Choe Yak-yong in, who slowly enters in handcuffs. Choe Yak-yong, a scholar and monk, is rather wearing regular and old clothing. As he enters, lost in his own thoughts, he is forced to kneel and bow, something he does without opposition.
Choe Yak-yong: Your Grand Majesty, I would not have imagined to have the honour to be here in the present circumstances.
Grand King Wonhyo: It is, indeed, unpleasant the circumstance that causes your visit.
Choe Yak-yong: Excuse me, Your Grand Majesty. Could you free my hands? I understand your concerns, and all those around you, giving the ominous and despicable precedent, but an old man like myself can not be considered as a serious threat, if you allow me such petition.
Grand King Wonhyo: You're right. Proceed as he asked.
Grand Royal Guards: Yes, Your Grand Majesty.
Choe Yak-yong: Thank you, Your Grand Majesty. My body is weak and therefore I can't think clearly as they seem to stop the circulation.
Grand King Wonhyo: It is, of course, a moment in which many here would argue that giving time and space to scholars to think is something that may bring more evil than good.
Choe Yak-yong: I would disagree with that assertion, Your Grand Majesty. I have always suggested that the source of evil is not found in the mind, but in the passions.
Grand King Wonhyo: I am aware of that. I have not forgotten it. But I wonder if you remember it, of course.
Choe Yak-yong: I am afraid I don't follow you, Your Grand Majesty.
Grand King Wonhyo: It has been a long time, of course, maybe close to two decades already. I was much younger, of course, but despite my memories are still somehow dizzy these days, I remember clearly those days in Seongji.
Choe Yak-yong: It can't be possible! Excuse me, Your Grand Majesty, I ignored it. I can hardly imagine...
Grand King Wonhyo: Don't worry, my existence was much simple in those days. But let's not to look back in the past.
Choe Yak-yong: I suppose that I should be grateful that the heaven granted me to have distinguished students without my own knowledge.
Grand King Wonhyo: Yes, I did not imagine that I would be sat down here today as well, to be honest. And you were in a better standing back them.
Choe Yak-yong: I would say that my standing did not change since I left these palace, many years ago. Until very recently by such sad events. I apologize for not being able to recognize you, Your Grand Majesty.
Grand King Wonhyo: Why did not you join the Council of Seven?
Choe Yak-yong: I am not interested in power, Your Grand Majesty. While a ruler must be interested in wisdom, it is not recommendable for a scholar to become a ruler. I left the place as I was not interested to become a stranger or a dissonant voice. Such person can only become an enemy and I did not wish to become one to some of those who I had respected for a long time, even if they chose a wrong path.
Grand King Wonhyo: This, of course, doesn't surprise me and it is what I had imagined. However, I can understand it has not helped your case.
Choe Yak-yong: I am well aware of that, Your Grand Majesty. I understand that it would not be wise to ask Your Grand Majesty to intercede. However, I would ask to consider the circumstances, and these men are hardly men who are involved in worldly affairs, and they reacted poorly under a heavy pressure. A punishment would be unavoidable, of course, but if I would be asked I suggest one that brings order and obedience, not tension or fear. Regarding those who were involved in the execution of such unwise plans, justice should be implemented without mercy.
Grand King Wonhyo: As you said, a punishment is duly when some of the worst crimes are encouraged and carried out. One could argue that those who are involved with the meaning of ideas and morality than those poor subjects who are moved by their passions too often. In any case, it would not be wise for me to be involved personally in the affairs of justice. My duty should be protect justice rather than administering, as much as that is possible. Unless there is some need for correction.
Choe Yak-yong: I understand, Your Grand Majesty. It is a decision that I would advice, if it was humanely possible, of course.
Grand King Wonhyo: For now, my curiosity was satisfied. You can retire.
Choe Yak-yong: I hope you are not wrong, Your Grand Majesty.
Grand King Wonhyo: I hope as well.