Rage

Ch-15 Proposal Part-1

Kim, the mastermind of familial adventures, intricately wove the threads of anticipation into a vibrant tapestry as they embarked on a journey to the captivating Busan Farmhouse. The purpose? Nothing short of orchestrating a symphony of celebration for the Chuseok harvest festival, transforming the mundane into a grand spectacle. Alongside Kim, a cadre of loyal maids—the ever-reliable Fang, the esteemed Big Madame, the distinguished Big Master, and the regal presence of King—formed a fellowship bound by the promise of revelry.

The Chuseok festival, a beacon of significance illuminating the honour bestowed upon the harvest season, held the promise of joy, unity, and a cultural extravaganza. This carefully choreographed escapade was designed not merely for a sojourn but as an artistic endeavour, intending to etch indelible memories against the canvas of the resplendent Busan Farmhouse. Here, amidst the beauty of the surroundings, the family would immerse themselves in the very essence of the Chuseok celebration—a vivid tapestry of shared laughter, cultural immersion, and the warmth of familial bonds.

The Moon Festival brought forth lively celebrations and a three-day holiday as part of the Thanksgiving ceremony, marking the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. Chuseok, or the Harvest Moon Festival, was a joyous occasion for family reunions. In this harmonious dance of traditions, Chuseok, the captivating "autumn eve" festival known as 추석 in Korean, unfolds its magic simultaneously across the Chinese and other East Asian lunar calendars. Harmonising with this celestial spectacle, Tsukimi, the fascinating Japanese rendition of the Mid-Autumn Festival, unveils its "moon viewing" revelry on the day etched in the Chinese lunar calendar. This cosmic alignment stitches together a rich tapestry of shared customs, uniting diverse East Asian cultures in a celebration that echoes beneath the luminous embrace of the moon.

In times gone by, I witnessed the festivities of Chinese, Korean, and Japanese holidays through the lens of foreign tourists, delighting in our unique way of life. A kind-hearted maid reassures me with warmth, declaring, "We are all your family now," sparking an emotional group embrace reminiscent of a scene from a heartfelt movie.

Amidst the festive air, I strive to withhold tears. The maid gently cautions, "Crying on a day of joy with family isn't an auspicious sign." Determined, I wipe away tears and head into the garage, pursuing a cracker box perched on the highest shelf. Balancing on an improvised ladder, I spot an old, rusted wooden box. As I reach for it, the box gives way, and I tumble into Kim's arms—an unexpected moment of closeness. Our gaze lingers until Kim playfully scoffs, prompting me to stand, blush, and dust off my clothing.

When Kim inquires about my quest, I explain my search for the firecracker in the box on the highest shelf. Kim playfully chides me for not asking for help and effortlessly retrieves the box. Pouting in response, I find myself on the receiving end of an unexpected peck on the lips, leaving me blushing like a cute, puffy little girl amid my playful protest.

In a mesmerising display of respect for ancestors and tradition, every lady and man delved into the art of donning hanbok. The gathering radiated with an ethereal glow, akin to stars twinkling in unison, as they collectively embraced the richness of a shared moment. Kim, an admirer of the harmonious spectacle, cast his gaze over the assembly. However, his eyes, filled with a mixture of pride and affection, sought out a particular light pink Hanbok-clad little girl—his own, a beacon of joy in the sparkling tapestry of tradition. Amid tradition and celebration, she stood as his radiant source of joy, a delicate thread weaving its way through the rich fabric of ancestral respect.

In her light pink Hanbok, Fang appeared nothing short of ethereal, a vision of grace and charm. Her radiant glow was unmistakable, especially when she graced the moment with her infectious laughter and smiles. Tousled Korean bangs danced freely in the air, adding a touch of whimsy to her already captivating presence. It was evident that she had discovered a profound joy, a newfound happiness that transcended her usual demeanour. At this moment, she embraced herself fully, revelling in the pure delight of being authentically and unapologetically herself.

For Kim, the architect of this enchanting trip, witnessing Fang's unrestrained happiness was the ultimate reward. He revelled in the success of the plan, finding genuine joy in the knowledge that Fang was not just a participant but a spirited reveller, fully immersed in the magic of the occasion.

Under the gentle caress of moonlight, people revelled in their enjoyment, creating a scene so enchanting it seemed too surreal to be believed.

The maid arrived, bearing a culinary treasure trove of mouth-watering dishes that promised to tantalise the taste buds. From the savoury delights of Wanja jeon (pan-fried meat patties) and the flavorful medley of Japchae (stir-fried starch noodles with beef and vegetables) to the sweet allure of Beet Songpyeon and the traditional charm of Nokdujeon (mung bean pancakes), the spread was nothing short of a feast fit for a celebration.

Amidst the culinary delights, Songpyeon (half-moon-shaped rice cake) added a touch of cultural elegance, while the rich and succulent Galbijjim (braised beef short ribs) promised to be a savoury centrepiece. Completing the ensemble, the refreshing Gosari Namul (Fiddlehead Ferns Side Dish) added a delightful crunch to the symphony of flavours. With this culinary ensemble, the gathering was set to savour the essence of Chuseok, with each dish a testament to the celebration's rich traditions and culinary delights.

Having heard Kim mention these delectable dishes before, Fang now beholds them in person. The tantalising aromas made her stomach growl audibly, betraying her hunger, and all eyes turned towards her. Seizing the moment, Kim smoothly interjected, "I am hungry. When are we going to eat?" The laughter that ensued provided a perfect diversion.

Just as the merriment settled, Big Madame approached, affectionately patting Kim and declaring, "Dear Kim, you mentioned them earlier; I'll have them made real fast." In a gracious gesture, Kim declined, insisting, "No, that's fine; I'll eat now." With purposeful strides, he headed towards the dining table, eliciting admiration from everyone.

At that moment, Fang silently thanked Kim for gracefully saving her from potential embarrassment. The atmosphere buzzed with appreciation and laughter, setting the stage for a delightful feast and sharing joy in the celebration of Chuseok.

Observing the distinct separation of tables between the maids and the royals, Fang couldn't shake off a sense of melancholy. In a bold move, she decided to join Laiba and her maid colleague at their table. The shift in seating arrangements stirred tension in the air, particularly among Big Madame and others who disapproved.

However, Kim handled the situation with grace and professionalism. Understanding Fang's desire to share the moment with those who had served their family for years, Kim addressed the unspoken discomfort. He expressed, "Aunt, you always taught me that doing good during a festival like this enhances our lives. Why not sit with the maids who have faithfully served us for many years, even before I was born?"

Kim's words, laced with respect and consideration, brought a smile to Big Madame's face. She grasped the depth of Kim's caring nature for Fang and recognised that the unconventional seating arrangement was a reflection of their solidarity. She realised that Fang needed not endure the same divide that she had experienced. In that moment, understanding and acceptance began to replace the tension in the air, fostering a spirit of unity and celebration among all.

In a surprising turn of events, other members of the royal family chose to join the maids at their table, catching Fang and even Kim off guard. This unexpected development marked a positive turning point after Kim's earlier recovery. The symbolic act signified a departure from traditional divides, and as they looked around, it became evident that the clouds of hesitation were clearing, making way for a beautiful summer in their lives, adorned with colourful rainbows of unity and understanding.

In this newfound harmony, both Kim and Fang radiated happiness. The gratitude extended beyond the couple, as Big Madame, Big Master, and even King took a moment to express heartfelt thanks to their maids for their years of dedicated service. The maids, initially shocked by the gesture, were genuinely thankful to their new Madame, Fang, for instigating positive change and bringing beauty into Kim's life, which had been shrouded in sorrow after the loss of his parents.

Tears brimmed with happiness in the eyes of the maids as they expressed their thanks to a higher power for the blessings they had received. These blessings encompassed not only the joy of being recognised and valued but also extended to essential provisions such as medical facilities for their families, support for education, sustenance, and the gift of a secure and welcoming space to call home. The tableau was painted with gratitude, unity, and the promise of a brighter future for everyone involved.

As the members of the gathering savoured their dinner, a sudden burst of fireworks illuminated the night sky, creating a breathtaking display that etched a memorable scene in their hearts. The vibrant colours and dazzling lights danced against the canvas of the dark heavens, casting a spell of wonder and enchantment over the festive atmosphere. It was as if the universe itself had joined in the celebration, gifting them a spectacular moment that added an extra layer of magic to their already joyous occasion. The crackling bursts of light painted a surreal scene, making the night even more special and unforgettable for Kim, Fang, and all in attendance.

Fang couldn't contain her excitement as she experienced the thrill of fireworks after so many years. With Kim's affectionate gestures adding to the magic of the moment, her heartbeat quickened, and a rosy blush adorned her cheeks. The night sparkled not just with the dazzling display in the sky but also with the warmth of love and togetherness.

The royals and maids united in the festivities and took turns lighting up an array of crackers. Sparklers, chakras, flower pots, rockets, pencils, twinkling stars, emeralds, kid's fancy items, and more joined the celestial celebration. Each burst added a new layer of enchantment to the night, and as the sky lit up with vibrant colours and patterns, the atmosphere buzzed with joy and laughter.

Despite her admiration for the spectacle, Fang hesitated to handle a firecracker herself. Standing alone in the background, she watched with a mix of awe and trepidation as the various crackers illuminated the night sky. The vibrant array of day-and-night functions, comets of different sizes, multishots, and even gift boxes added grandeur to the celebration. Fang's heart swelled with hope, but the fear of handling a firecracker kept her at a distance, content to revel in the magical display from afar.

Kim, sensing Fang's hesitation, approached with gentle reassurance. Taking command, he placed a sparkling star stick in Fang's hands, surprising her. Caught off guard, she hesitated, a momentary impulse to run away tugging at her. However, Kim's firm grip held her in place. The proximity added an extra layer of complexity, making her head dizzy with both the anticipation of the firecracker and the closeness with Kim.

As the sparkling star stick awaited to illuminate the night, Kim leaned in and whispered words of encouragement: "Focus and never let your fear harm you." With this guidance, he released his grip on Fang, allowing her to embrace the moment on her terms. Kim gracefully moved to join the festivities on the other side, mingling with the maids and revelling in the joy of the celebration, leaving Fang to face her fear and find strength during the sparkling night.

In that moment, Fang realised that her fear was merely a product of her imagination. Kim's guidance had illuminated a new perspective, and with newfound courage, she embraced the sparkling star stick, feeling the warmth of love enveloping her.

As the night unfolded, the women gathered in a circle, inviting Fang to join them. They initiated a mesmerising performance of Ganggangsullae, a traditional dance deeply rooted in Chuseok festivities. The ladies, adorned in vibrant hanbok, linked hands in a large circle and harmonised in song. The rhythmic dance and melodic voices combined, creating an enchanting and unforgettable moment.

Fang, now part of this symbolic circle, felt a deeper connection with the women around her. The dance became a celebration not only of tradition but also of unity, love, and the shared joy of the Chuseok festival. As they swayed and sang beneath the moonlit sky, the night became a tapestry woven with the threads of tradition, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of celebration.

On the opposite end, the men's gathering unfolded with a distinct air of camaraderie, accompanied by the clinking of soju glasses, the rich aroma of whisky, and an array of delectable snacks. Kim found himself witnessing a different facet of his uncle and grandpa as they engaged in a unique tradition—betting on a business contract over 10 shots of soju. In this spirited exchange, they weren't merely making deals; they were paying homage to their ancestors, infusing the gathering with a sense of respect and tradition.

The spread for this special occasion included representative foods such as newly harvested rice, symbolising abundance and prosperity, along with the cherished Songpyeon rice cakes and a selection of alcoholic beverages. Each element held significance in the ceremonial service, reflecting the bounty of the harvest season and honouring the familial lineage.

A defining ritual of this gathering was the act of bowing to their ancestors, a gesture steeped in reverence and connection with the past. As Kim observed this unique blend of tradition and modernity, he gained a deeper understanding of his family's heritage and the intricate tapestry of customs that enriched their Chuseok celebration.

As the night transitioned into the day, Chuseok brought a plethora of games to entertain and pass the time. Fang found herself navigating a maze where understanding was intertwined with confusion in a playful dance.

In the game of Tuho, where precision and skill took centre stage, all the men took their turns first, aiming to throw arrows into a narrow-necked wooden cylinder. Fang, along with the other ladies, awaited their moment with anticipation, hoping for success, especially for Kim.

As the men competed with focused determination, Fang silently prayed for Kim's victory. The stakes were high, as the organisers had announced a unique penalty for the losing participants: eating hobak-juk, a pumpkin porridge known for its peculiar taste and disliked by some. The prospect of this culinary challenge added an extra layer of excitement to the game, and Fang couldn't help but feel a mixture of nerves and anticipation as the arrows soared through the air, aiming for the elusive target. The impending taste of victory or the peculiar porridge lingered in the air, heightening the thrill of the game.

The intensity of the Tuho game reached its zenith, with participants losing themselves in the challenge. Arrows flew in various directions, some hitting the mark while others landed haphazardly. As the competition unfolded, a sense of anticipation and excitement gripped the air.

Amid the fervour, Kim's turn arrived. The atmosphere turned eerily silent as he focused, narrowing his eyes on the target. With precision and timing, Kim skillfully propelled all 11 arrows into the narrow-necked wooden cylinder. The decisive completion of the task announced his victory, and a wave of cheers and applause erupted from the onlookers.

Kim's success not only secured his triumph in the Tuho game but also spared him from the peculiar penalty of hobak-juk. Fang couldn't help but beam with pride at her partner's skill and the shared joy of their victory in the first game of the Chuseok festivities.

The unexpected twist in the Tuho game saw none other than the king himself as the one who had to face the peculiar taste of hobak-juk. Despite his age and perhaps a momentary lapse in direction, the king found himself on the losing end of the game, getting distracted at a crucial juncture.

However, what surprised and amused onlookers was the revelation that the king had a longstanding fondness for eating pumpkin porridge. From his youth until now, he had embraced this particular dish. Folklore suggests that grumpy individuals often turned to hobak-juk to improve their mood, and the king seemed to uphold this tradition.

In an unexpected turn of events, the king embraced the penalty with a smile, winning in the culinary aspect by indulging in his favourite dish, even though he experienced a setback in the Tuho game. The festive spirit prevailed as laughter and camaraderie filled the air, turning a simple game into a memorable moment of shared joy and amusement.

The next game introduced a lighthearted tone to the festivities—Neolttwigi, or seesaw jumping. Adding an element of laughter and camaraderie, this game promised to infuse the celebration with joy. To further enhance the experience, the announcer declared that it would be a couple's game, allowing participants to choose their partners and making the occasion more memorable and interesting.

Nevertheless, a twist was unveiled as the announcer announced that they would draw chits to determine the couples. This unexpected turn held everyone in suspense, with each participant fervently praying for a specific partner. In this moment, Kim and Fang joined the collective anticipation, expressing silent wishes for the chits to align in their favour.

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as the draw would soon reveal the pairs who would partake in the seesaw jumping together. The prospect of shared laughter and the joy of the game heightened as the participants eagerly awaited the outcome of the chit-chat draw.

The tension in the air grew palpable as the chit-draw unfolded before the eager participants. Some faces lit up with delight upon hearing their chosen partner's name, while others displayed a subtle disappointment as their desired pairings didn't materialise.

Amidst the anticipation, fate played its hand, intertwining the destinies of Kim and Fang. Their names were called together, setting them as partners in the seesaw jumping game. It seemed as if the heavens themselves orchestrated this union, weaving a thread that drew them closer to the festive celebration.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the game, the draw also paired the big Madame and the big Master as a couple. The unexpected combinations fueled the excitement, making the seesaw jumping game even more interesting and engaging. Laughter and playful banter filled the air as the couples prepared for the lighthearted challenge that awaited them, turning this traditional game into a memorable chapter in the Chuseok festivities.

The seesaw game unfolded with an air of carefree joy as the participants, including Kim and Fang, the Big Madame, and the Big Master, leapt into the challenge. Laughter and playful shouts filled the surroundings as people awaited their turns, quickly forming connections with strangers and playing as if they had been friends for years.

Surrounded by the cheerful chaos, Kim and Fang, along with the Big Madame and Big Master, found themselves caught in a different wave of excitement. As they jumped on the seesaw, a unique thrill coursed through their hearts. Kim and Fang, in particular, shared a gaze laden with unspoken emotions, staring at each other with a kind of excitement that defied description.