Reborn: This Time I Choose the Duke
C1- The King's Decree
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"If there is someone you care for, say it. I want to hear it from you."
The King’s voice echoed from the raised dais, measured and steady, carrying both royal authority and a rare gentleness.
Jeon Jungkook stood frozen.
In that breath, the truth fractured his reality
thrown back to the year he turned eighteen.
Today was the palace banquet, apparently a family gathering. In truth, the King had summoned him for one purpose alone,
Jungkook parted his lips, but the words caught in his throat. A surge of tangled emotions tightened his chest, his vision blurring with sudden tears.
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"You need not be afraid,"
The King’s voice softened further when Jungkook failed to answer.
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"The Jeon family has served the crown for generations. Your father, your hyungs, your uncles they all fell for the Kingdom of Joseon on the battlefield. Now, only you remain. I will personally see to your marriage. No matter whom you wish to wed, I will make it so."
Even after living two lifetimes, the memory of the Jeon Estate made Jungkook’s heart ache. The kingdom's foundation was shallow, its enemies numerous.
Only last year, the horsemen of the Northern Reaches had shattered the border defenses. The Jeon men had ridden north to defend the realm, full of spirit, laughing and teasing him until he had found them unbearable.
When they returned, they came in coffins, their bodies wrapped in torn, blood-soaked cloaks.
His aunts and sisters-in-law had scattered, and his mother, crushed by grief, had passed away by the start of the year.
The once-lively Jeon Estate was left with only Jungkook.
A light laugh broke the solemn air.
Princess Kim Ji-won / Daughter of Queen Kim So-yeon
"Why even ask, Your Majesty?"
Princess Kim Ji-won said teasingly.
Princess Kim Ji-won / Daughter of Queen Kim So-yeon
"Everyone knows Jungkook is hopelessly in love with the Crown Prince I-an. He's never exactly been subtle."
In his previous life, those exact words had made Jungkook flush crimson, lowering his head in shy embarrassment at the mention of Crown Prince Kim I-an.
Back then, the King had laughed heartily and decreed the match. Jungkook had poured his entire soul into that wedding, desperately hoping his effort would make I-an care.
But on their wedding night, I-an shut him out, refusing to even share the bed. Jungkook had spent the night curled on the cold stone floor in his wedding robes, staring into the dark.
Years passed without intimacy, and without an heir, the court's pity turned to disdain.
Jungkook endured it all in silence, until the day he overheard I-an speaking with a companion.
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"He forced me to marry him,"
Prince I-an had said, his voice sharp with cold contempt.
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"And now he's getting what he deserves."
When his companion pointed out Jungkook's devotion, I-an hadn't hesitated to say,
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"He disgusts me."
The memory made Jungkook's stomach turn. The marriage had been the King's decree, yet he alone had paid the price for it. When he had finally swallowed his pride and asked I-an for a dissolution of their marriage, the Crown Prince had snapped, hurling a cup that struck Jungkook’s temple, leaving him bleeding and ignored.
Though Prince I-an eventually granted the annulment weeks later, Jungkook had gone to sleep on the eve of their separation worn thin and hollowed out only to wake up back at eighteen.
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"Oh?"
The King said thoughtfully, snapping Jungkook back to the present.
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"He likes I-an?"
Princess Kim Ji-won / Daughter of Queen Kim So-yeon
"Yes,"
Ji-won smiled playfully, gesturing vaguely to the crowd.
Princess Kim Ji-won / Daughter of Queen Kim So-yeon
"Jungkook is completely smitten. He's always trying to look after him."
As Ji-won spoke, I-an’s brows knit together. His discomfort was unmistakable to him, this public adoration was nothing but an unwanted burden.
Around the hall, guests turned to look at Jungkook, eager for a spectacle.
Another person might have felt humiliated. Jungkook felt nothing.
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
“So you like him that much? You grew up together naturally, it must be mutual. In that case, I'll arrange the betrothal myse…"
Jeon jungkook
"Your Majesty."
Jungkook's voice cut through the hall. The King paused, turning.
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"Hmm?"
Jungkook's eyes were faintly red, but his posture was flawless as he stepped forward and bowed deeply. He didn't spare I-an a single glance.
Jeon jungkook
"It is true that I grew up alongside His Highness,"
Jungkook said, his voice ringing clear and steady.
Jeon jungkook
"But I have always held him in the highest respect as my future ruler. I have never once harbored improper feelings toward him."
A heavy silence fell across the hall. I-an’s brows drew even tighter, a flicker of shock crossing his face.
The King frowned slightly, leaning forward.
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"Are you certain?"
Jungkook knew the King would not relent unless a name was given to satisfy the decree.
Remaining bowed, he spoke with absolute, solemn conviction.
Jeon jungkook
"I have long admired the Duke of Wolsong. If I may become his wife, I would have no regrets in this life."
Author: Ink and Ivy
💜 Hello, dear readers! Welcome to my second chat story. I hope you’re all doing well!
Author: Ink and Ivy
If you’re enjoying this one, I’d really appreciate it if you also checked out my other Taekook story, It Begins with Blood and Fear….the first book of my fantasy trilogy. You might enjoy it too!
Author: Ink and Ivy
Since I’m writing two stories at the same time, updates may be a little slower.
Author: Ink and Ivy
I can’t promise a fixed update schedule, but I promise this story isn’t going anywhere. 💜
Author: Ink and Ivy
Thank you for being patient with me! 🤍
Author: Ink and Ivy
If you like the story, please don’t forget to ❤️
Author: Ink and Ivy
Like, 💬 Comment, and ⭐ Subscribe.
Author: Ink and Ivy
Take care of yourselves, and happy reading!
Author: Ink and Ivy
See you in Chapter 2! 💜✨
C2-Playing Hard to Get?
The grand hall erupted in an instant.
Random Nobel Man
"What? The Duke of Duskmoor?"
Random Nobel women
"He really said he wants to marry the Young Lord?"
Random Nobel Man
"Why would he give up the Crown Prince for the Duke?"
Random Nobel women
"Does he even realize the Duke is in no condition to marry anyone at all?"
The whispers surged like a rising tide, rippling across the hall from every direction. Jungkook heard them clearly, yet his expression never wavered.
The King sighed, trying to soften the moment. He said gently,
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"That would be a difficult match for you,"
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"Perhaps I should choose someone else for you from among the noble houses."
Jungkook did not retreat.
Jeon jungkook
"Your Majesty,"
Jeon jungkook
"I am deeply grateful for your compassion. But I have already made a vow before the Gods. In this lifetime, I will marry no one but the Duke of Wolsong. I humbly ask for your blessing."
He bent low, lowering himself until his forehead touched the cold marble floor.
The sound of the impact was soft but resolute.
Lord Kim Taehyung, Duke of Wolsong. The King's full brother. Ninth among their generation. In the years when the King had still been a prince fighting for the throne, it was Taehyung who had stood unwaveringly at his side, dragging him back from the edge of death.
His loyalty and strength had been instrumental in securing the crown.
Afterward, Taehyung led campaigns to the east and north, earning unmatched renown on the battlefield.
Until one year ago. While stationed in the Northern Reaches, Taehyung collapsed during a campaign.
He was carried back to the Wolsong Estate and never woke again.
Royal physicians came and went, whispering that he might never awaken at all.
Jungkook knew all of this. And he knew something else.
In his previous life, during the third year of his marriage, Duke Taehyung had awakened. That year had been one of the darkest periods Jungkook had ever endured as Crown princess.
He had remained childless, and the Queen arranged for Crown Prince I-an to take a consort.
Compared to Jungkook, the consort was cherished by everyone in the Crown Prince's Wing, even the Prince himself cherished her.
When Duke finally awoke, I-an brought both Jungkook and the consort to visit him at the Wolsong Estate.
On the return journey, the consort deliberately departed early in the carriage, leaving Jungkook behind.
Jungkook didn't know the way back. He lingered, hoping someone might offer to take him along but everyone knew the Crown Prince had no affection for him. No one wanted to risk offending the future king.
Just as despair began to close in, a weak but steady voice sounded from behind him.
Prince Kim Taehyung / Duke of Wolsong
"There's a carriage ready. Come."
Jungkook turned around, stunned. Taehyung sat in a wheelchair, draped in a dark, loose robe.
His sharp features were pale and gaunt, his body visibly diminished. And yet, when he saw Jungkook's face, he offered a faint, gentle smile.
Prince Kim Taehyung / Duke of Wolsong
"Would you care to stay for supper at the Wolsong Estate?"
Jungkook tried to say no, but the moment his lips parted, tears spilled down his cheeks hot, uncontrollable.
Why was he treated like this?
His only sin was that he no longer had anyone left to protect him.
His family had died serving the Kingdom, yet he was the one cast aside.
All the pain he had buried so deeply finally broke free in Taehyung's presence.
The Duke sighed softly, then drew a handkerchief from his pocket and offered it to him. He stayed beside him the entire time.
After that day, Jungkook never saw Duke Taehyung again. But he remembered that moment for a very long time.
Back in the present, the King frowned, deep in thought. It was the Queen who spoke at last, her voice calm and gentle.
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
"If he is truly determined to marry Taehyung, then perhaps we should honor his sincerity."
The King looked at her, then back at Jungkook, still bowing before him. Finally, he gave a reluctant nod.
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"Very well."
He rubbed his temple, weary.
King Kim Chang-Wook / King of Joseon
"You have no family left, and Taehyung remains unwell. The palace will oversee all arrangements."
Jeon jungkook
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
He had no intention of repeating the same mistake. Duke Taehyung was his best option.
For one thing, the Duke was still unconscious. That alone gave Jungkook time, time to plan his future on his own terms.
And in his previous life, though Taehyung eventually recovered consciousness, poor care had left him permanently paralyzed. He spent the rest of his life in a wheelchair.
Taehyung had once shown him kindness when no one else would. The least Jungkook could do was care for him while he was vulnerable help him heal, perhaps even help him walk again.
And when he did wake, Jungkook would ask him for a divorce.
Duke Taehyung likely wouldn't want to marry him anyway before his father and hyungs died, Jungkook had heard rumors that the Duke had once deeply loved someone, though no one knew who that person was.
Across the banquet hall, Kim I-an sat rigid at his table, his gaze fixed on Jungkook as he petitioned to marry his uncle. An inexplicable irritation gnawed at him.
Princess Kim Ji-won / Daughter of Queen Kim So-yeon
"He wants to marry that Taehyung?”
Princess Kim Ji-won / Daughter of Queen Kim So-yeon
"Jungkook really is the dumbest boy alive."
I-an's brow tightened. Ji-Eun leaned closer, her eyes gleaming.
Princess Kim Ji-won / Daughter of Queen Kim So-yeon
"I-an, I'll bet anything he'll regret this in less than a week."
He gave a cold, humorless smile.
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"That has nothing to do with me."
After the banquet, Jungkook returned to the Jeon Estate. He walked through the familiar garden, into his long-abandoned chamber, and collapsed onto the bed. For the first time in years, he no longer had to face life with I-an.
He was finally home. The thought brought him peace, and he slept deeply, night after night, slowly regaining his strength.
One of the Queen's longtime attendants arrived at the Jeon Estate, greeting Jungkook with a warm smile.
Hilda / Queen’s Attendant
"His Majesty has entrusted your wedding arrangements to Her Majesty. The Queen has been preparing everything herself, and she hopes you'll come to the palace to help choose an auspicious date."
Jeon jungkook
"I'm not very good with such matters. Her Majesty may choose any date she finds suitable."
The attendant laughed softly.
Hilda / Queen’s Attendant
"The Queen said she hadn't seen you for a long time and would like a private word."
A private word? Jungkook paused. In both this life and the last, the Queen had never liked him. But the attendant's tone was sincere, and he couldn't bring himself to refuse.
It was late afternoon when he entered the palace, following the servants toward the Queen's residence.
The setting sun bathed the cobblestone path in warm gold. Jungkook kept his head lowered, watching the light flicker across the ground beneath his feet.
Hilda / Queen’s Attendant
"Your Highness."
The attendant's respectful greeting rang out suddenly.
Jungkook froze, then slowly lifted his head.
I-an stood not far ahead. Tall. Immaculate. Cold. His brows were furrowed, his sharp, assessing eyes landing squarely on Jungkook.
That gaze made Jungkook's chest tighten, but he lowered his head at once, stepping back to offer a restrained bow.
Jeon jungkook
"Your Highness."
I-an's frown deepened. He knew Jungkook liked him. In the past, Jungkook had learned his routine, timed his visits to the Queen, and brought pastries he baked himself, smiling warmly whenever they "coincidentally" met.
I-an had never eaten them, either giving them to the servants or having them thrown out.
But today, Jungkook carried nothing. So he'd come just to see him, hadn't he? At the banquet, he had boldly declared he no longer held improper feelings,
and now he appeared here clearly regretting it. Playing distant.
Pretending he'd moved on.
I-an let out a low, mocking chuckle.
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"Really, Jungkook?"
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"Is this your idea of playing hard to get? Honestly, it's kind of boring."
Author: Ink and Ivy
Hello, dear readers! Thank you so much for reading💜❤️
Author: Ink and Ivy
I’ll do my best to update as soon as I can.
Author: Ink and Ivy
Thank you for your patience and dont forget to show yoursupport!🥺🤍
Author: Ink and Ivy
COMMENT
Author: Ink and Ivy
SUBSCRIBE
Author: Ink and Ivy
Take care of yourselves,💋❤️🐻🐰
C3- Escorting the Bride
Jungkook paused, genuinely bewildered.
Jeon jungkook
"What did you say, Your Highness?"
I-an's voice was cold, edged with unmistakable mockery.
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"Since you've announced your intention to marry my uncle, there's no reason for you to keep clinging to me. That kind of persistence only makes me sick."
He froze then finally understood. So that was what he thought.
In his previous life, moments like this had happened countless times, and fear had always held him back from explaining himself.
But now? He no longer cared.
Jungkook pressed his lips together briefly.
Jeon jungkook
"Your Highness, I have never intended to cling to you. At the family banquet, I made myself very clear to His Majesty. I do not have feelings for you. Not in the slightest."
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"Oh? Then today did you simply get lost and run into me by coincidence?"
Jeon jungkook
"I was summoned to the palace by Her Majesty,"
Jeon jungkook
"Even if you don't believe me, you should at least believe Hilda."
Hilda stepped forward with a courteous smile.
Hilda / Queen’s Attendant
"Her Majesty did indeed summon the soon to be duchess."
A frown creased I-an's brow, irritation creeping into his chest.
Jeon jungkook
"I will soon be marrying Duke Kim Taehyung,"
Jeon jungkook
"Her Majesty invited me to choose the wedding date today. If Your Highness still doubts this, you are welcome to ask her yourself."
When he finished speaking, Jungkook felt unexpectedly light. I-an, however, stared straight at him.
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"My Uncle has been unconscious for a long time. The physicians say he may never wake. If you marry him, you'll spend the rest of your life alone."
Jeon jungkook
💭 In my previous life, I married you, and I was alone until the day I died,
His expression didn't change as he offered a faint smile.
Jeon jungkook
"Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. But as I said before, I have admired Duke Kim Taehyung for a long time. As long as I can be by his side, I don't mind whether he's awake or unconscious."
Jungkook turned to Hilda.
Jeon jungkook
"Let's go. We shouldn't keep Her Majesty waiting."
I-an stayed where he was, watching him walk away. For a fleeting moment, a memory of a shy, hesitant Jungkook surfaced before his eyes, promising happiness at the thought of marrying him.
The image rippled and vanished, leaving a dull, heavy ache spread through his chest, as though something deeply important were slipping away.
Inside Rose Hall, the Queen beckoned him over with a shallow smile.
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
"Jungkook, you've finally arrived. Come, sit beside me."
Jungkook performed a proper, formal curtsy.
Jeon jungkook
"Your Majesty."
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
"You're always so well-mannered. Why did you come alone?"
Jeon jungkook
"There's only me left at Jeon Manor. There was no one to accompany me,"
Jungkook answered quietly. The Queen's gaze flickered before softening.
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
"Enough of sad matters. Come take a look at the dates."
On the table lay a parchment with two dates: the third of June and the nineteenth of October.
The nineteenth of October was the exact day Jungkook had married I-an in his previous life.
A torrential storm had ruined the ceremony, and people later whispered that he was unlucky, claiming he would bring disaster upon the royal family.
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
"In my opinion, the nineteenth of October is the better choice."
Jeon jungkook
"Thank you, Your Majesty, But I believe the third of June is better."
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
"It's already April. Isn't June third a bit rushed?"
Jeon jungkook
"It is, but I wish to marry Duke Kim Taehyung as soon as possible."
Jungkook allowed just a trace of perfectly timed shyness to surface.
At that moment, I-an entered the hall. Hearing his words, his steps faltered slightly and his jaw tightened.
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
💭 Is he truly that eager to marry?
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
"I-an is here as well,"
the Queen said pleasantly.
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
"Perfect timing. Jungkook wishes to marry on the third of June, but I find it far too soon. Come, help persuade him."
I-an shot Jungkook a cold glance.
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"If he's so eager to marry my Uncle, why spoil his good fortune? If the wedding were delayed until October, he might start complaining behind our backs."
Instead of looking wounded, Jungkook smiled.
Jeon jungkook
"His Highness is right. Then the wedding will be held on the third of June. I hope Your Highness will honor us by attending."
I-an's gaze darkened dangerously. He excused himself to the Queen and left the hall. Jungkook was about to leave as well when the Queen spoke again.
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
"Oh Jungkook. You know Duke Taehyung remains unconscious. He won't be able to come to Jeon Manor to escort the bride.”
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
“Someone unmarried must stand in for him. I was thinking, perhaps I-an?"
Jungkook shook his head without hesitation.
Jeon jungkook
"His Highness bears many responsibilities. It would be better to choose someone else from the royal family. Kim Do-hyun would be suitable, he is unmarried and of age."
The Queen nodded faintly.
Queen Kim So-yeon / Queen of Joseon
"Very well."
On the way back to Jeon Manor, memories from Jungkook's childhood resurfaced.
His grandfather had once been I-an's instructor, and they had grown up together, sharing everything. He had even saved I-an's life from a runaway carriage, injuring his own left knee so badly that he could barely walk.
Back then, a frantic I-an had promised to take care of him forever.
When had affection turned into disdain? He couldn't remember.
In his previous life, he had tortured himself over that question, crying until his health failed.
This time, he chose to let it go. In this world, everything aside from life and death was trivial.
As the wedding day drew nearer, preparations were in full swing at the palace, the Wolsong Estate, and Jeon Manor.
Living in the Crown Prince's Wing, I-an could hardly avoid the sight of the festive decorations.
After several days of mounting irritation, he stepped into his study for some air, where his cousin Do-hyun was waiting.
Prince Kim I-an / Crown Prince of Joseon
"You're here for something?"
Kim Do-hyun / Cousin of Crown Prince
"Well, Uncle Taehyung is getting married, isn't he? Her Majesty said she needs to select someone from the royal kin to escort the bride from Jeon Manor."
Author: Ink and Ivy
Thankyou so much for reading 🤍🤍
Author: Ink and Ivy
How are you all??
Author: Ink and Ivy
See you all soon with next update❤️
Author: Ink and Ivy
Till them take care and dont forget to show your support🥺🤍
Author: Ink and Ivy
COMMENT
Author: Ink and Ivy
SUBSCRIBE
Download NovelToon APP on App Store and Google Play
