⁝ marketplace.

@✿ baek junwoo hyunjung does not want this kind of energy so early in the morning.

she has been... well, negotiating with this seller for a few minutes now, claiming that she's being overcharged for the norigae she wants. she knows what the prices were the last time she had been here! of course, she'd know if she's being charged more than what the price was originally. but it's going nowhere, with the two of them being too stubborn to hold their grounds. hyunjung is one moment away from calling the guards, when another voice interrupts their argument.

a somewhat familiar voice, which has hyunjung furrowing her eyebrows, lips parting a little as she turns to look over her shoulder.

and an equally familiar face enters her line of sight. she almost chokes on air, but she takes a step backwards in surprise instead. "you—!" she says, pointing at the man with an accusatory finger. out of all people she expected to meet today, which is not a lot in the first place, it's *this* man that she did not even think about at all. she's half-hoped that the first time they met was also the last, for she doesn't want to deal with someone who seemed to be the type to pry.

she has had an inkling that perhaps he *knew,* even back then. but she hadn't expected him to appear in her life again! and even more importantly, she hadn't expected him to be a marquess, of all people—of all *ranks* there is. and a baek as well—while she isn't too familiar with that clan, she knows enough to know that they hold enough power amongst the upper classes. perhaps she should mind her demeanor then, her behavior in front of this higher ranking man, but this meeting has left her more than just flabbergasted.

"what are you doing here?"

@❀ min seokjin It wasn’t unusual for Mina to be wandering around the marketplace. It was nice to get out of their estate now and then where the people were bustling about, making a sale or looking to find something delicious to bring home, perhaps a quaint trinket to gift someone special. It was all quite fascinating for her. Things have changed in their household, giving her more free time now, something she was thankful for. It was bittersweet but a blessing in itself. And so, here was Mina, in the middle of a busy market, looking around for whatever she could find that caught her attention.

She had so much going on inside her little head that not even a ride out to the forest wasn’t cutting it which was news to her as it almost usually helped. Perhaps the only thing she could do was distract herself with some shopping. Maybe speaking or even just seeing other people could help ease the brain noise, Ironic but everyone’s wired differently, she thought. She smiled at the lady selling some jewelry while she looked at some pieces, everything glistened beautifully as the sunlight hit them perfectly. ‘I’ll come back to get Sejoon something, she’d like that,’ Mina thought while thinking of her long-time friend. As if on cue, her feet led her to one place she was all too familiar with, the leather workshop. Bonhwa did not need any more ‘new’ bridles or leads… one more couldn’t possibly hurt right?

In the back of her mind, there was some sort of motive brewing. She didn’t realize it yet but subconsciously she was here to hopefully see him. Someone she didn’t think she’d be delighted to see but surprisingly it made her feel at ease somehow. Maybe it was because he’d broken her fall many moons ago or there was just something about him. She never knew his name but never forgot his face. Sure, their conversations were brief but they were enough, given the length of time. Certainly, she could send someone to do this for her but Mina insisted.

She quietly stepped in even if the small bell by the door rang to prompt her entrance. It was quiet but not blaring, actually quite comfortable. The smell of leather was something she was accustomed to in a way, it was comforting. She carefully ran her fingers on some of the items while humming a soft tune to herself, closely looking at one of the bridles on display. The work was clean, neat— impeccable even. Mina smiled at it, ‘Bonhwa wouldn’t mind… right?’ Knowing full well that if he could talk, he’d be judging her for it but supporting her somehow. Was it silly? Yes, absolutely. Although, what could you do? If it meant being able to maybe exchange some words with him, she’d still buy it.

“How may I help you?” A soft male voice came from behind, pulling her from her thoughts and making her jump, stumbling a bit as she looked behind her. Great, way to make another lasting…clumsy reaction. “I.. uh.. yes, hello-“ where were her goddamn words. She stood up straight and dusted off her clothes, clearing as well. “Hi.. yes sorry, I thought I was alone. You’re usually not here at the front..” Ha. Was that creepy? God, it probably was but it was too late to take it back now. This was making her look foolish by telling second, hopefully, it hadn’t been obvious.

@❀ yoo hyunjung junwoo's sharp eyes noticed a norigae that had fallen from the rushing female when she left. he sighed and chuckled in amusement as he picked up the norigae, noticing a small word written on it: "yoo." a small smirk graced the corner of his mouth as he nodded to himself, taking a mental note of the name, clearly her family's name. junwoo went home after the incident, holding the norigae until he fell asleep.

the next few weeks were quite busy for junwoo. his days were filled with sword and archery training, and he had no complaints about it, knowing it was his duty to his country and his father.

fortunately, today was a bit better as he took a break and wandered around the bustling marketplace. not long after, his stride was halted by the sounds of someone arguing in the middle of a transaction. the voice rang a familiar note in junwoo's ears. he tilted his head slightly before a small smirk tugged at his lips.

what amused him was that the lady he had discovered a few weeks ago was in her true form now, as a female, not disguised as a male like he had seen her before. junwoo knew better than to be swayed by such a presence, but perhaps he had been swayed a little without realizing it.

he approached her side and listened to the argument before chiming in. "just give in to whatever the lady wants. i'll pay for it." the seller looked astounded when he saw the young marquess and quickly bowed his head. "marquess baek! i would be honored to pack this and give it to her, my lord." after junwoo paid the seller, he turned to the female, trying to hold back his laughter.

"unfortunately, we meet again. i regret to say that you owe me now with this purchase, lady yoo." he looks over at the norigae with a small chuckles. "are you perhaps trying to buy this because yours went missing ?" asked him nonchalantly.

[post deleted by owner]

@❀ min seokjin For many who knew her, one would know it was very uncharacteristic of her to stay around to simply engage in a small talk, what more on such a day like that. While it was very unusual for her, there was something about the male— who had now lowered himself to meet her gaze at an eye level— that drew her in with much curiosity. there was nothing special about her, she was, but a mere sangmin facing head on with her own daily life problems.

For a brief moment, a fleeting smile appeared on her face as the mention of how he enjoyed the little delicacy she had been making for years. However, the smile left as fast as it came when she was briefly reminded that there was a possible chance he would never be able to purchase or taste it again… well, at least not for the foreseeable future.

It was also odd, to her at least, receiving such a compliment in person. And for her entire life, or rather, since the demotion of her family, such compliments were rare and scarce—not that she was complaining. Gureum would have assumed the worse of people, perhaps be suspicious of them, however, the sincerity in his eyes said otherwise.

“gureum.” There was short pause as she fiddled with the side of her dusty pink chima, unsure whether to extend her hand in his direction, was it rude if she did not do so? She wondered before looking up to meet his gaze. “Hong gureum. It’s nice to meet you? Lord.. ? Lord min.” As she got up from their rather tiring position, she gave him a brief bow. Despite his words, she was not one to make do without formalities, they were, after all, still strangers.

“My heart extends its heartfelt gratitude for your compliments. unfortunately, I do not much much to offer you, Lord Min.” again, there was a short pause that lingered between them, because, just like her words, there was nothing much she could offer him.

It was only then when she remembered, deep in the depths of her little cloth bag was a last package of wrapped of freshly made seonpyeon. Wordlessly, she fished for the neatly wrapped delicacy before handing it to him. “They were meant for my sister, but you can have it.”

@✿ go mina [ Early January 1870 ]

Several things demanded Seokjin's attention at the front of the shop: special customers and special orders. Preferring the comfort and quiet of his workshop, he seldom manned the front desk, which meant that many customers were unaware that he was the owner of the leather house. Despite the years he has operated it since taking over after his father's unfortunate passing, this fact remains unknown to many.

However, today Seokjin found himself stationed at the front desk, a departure from his usual role in the workshop. With yesterday's orders fulfilled and some artisans sent home early, he reflected on the small joy of an early end to the workday. Seokjin longed to join them, eager to tend to his stable of horses, yet as the owner, duty bound him to remain. As the day progressed towards closing time and the pace of business slowed, the final customer settled their bill for a newly crafted saddle.
With their departure, Seokjin's gaze shifted to the cluttered stack of bridles tucked behind the shop's register.

Seokjin found himself deeply engrossed in untangling the twisted bridles, completely unaware of the faint creak as the door opened and a solitary customer entered. What caught his attention, however, was the gentle humming of a woman's voice—a soft melody that puzzled him, for he had sent Yeon and Ara home hours ago. Surely, he thought, he was alone in the shop. Yet the melodic sound continued to echo around him, leaving him curious and slightly unsettled about the mysterious visitor who had brought this unexpected serenade into his quaint shop.

As he deftly worked through the knotted bridles, he gradually became entranced by the soothing melody weaving through the air, reminiscent of a refreshing summer breeze. With each twist and turn of the leather in his hands, the music seemed to wrap around him, offering a moment of unexpected calm amidst the usual bustle of the shop.

Upon finally resolving the last of the tangled mess, Seokjin looked up, his curiosity piqued by the source of the captivating tune. His gaze softened as he laid eyes on the singer—her. The recognition brought a gentle warmth to his expression, a mix of surprise and delight to see her standing there, her presence filling the space with a certain grace and familiarity.

She was the one customer Seokjin always anticipated with a mixture of excitement and curiosity—the woman he had rescued on that fateful day. Despite their encounters, they had never exchanged names or much conversation beyond the occasional interaction in his shop.

The lord stands up awkwardly at first before fixing his posture, making his presence known.

“How may I help you?” he says softly, hoping to not startle the lady who appeared to be shopping by herself.

@❁ hong gureum [h] If only he had known that his small gesture would only cause the lady in front of him to shed more tears, he surely wouldn't have offered. Now, he felt a sense of responsibility as he watched additional tears cascade down her cheek. "My apologies."

Seokjin carefully folded the handkerchief and tucked it away, a sense of helplessness washing over him as he observed her wiping tears with the sleeves of her hanbok. Her questioning tone carried a defeated air, yet Seokjin couldn't simply ignore her plight. It felt humiliating to declare something as his favorite only to be challenged by the very person who owned the establishment.

In truth, he had never been a frequent visitor to this shop nor had he purchased his own snacks, largely due to the relentless demands of his occupation. The responsibilities that came with his position left little time for personal indulgences or leisurely outings.

"Well my brother has always been the one to purchase them for me. Weekly in fact. Since the leather house is always busy." Rambling again. Seokjin mentally reprimands himself. Rarely faced with crying damsels, he finds himself out of his element. But perhaps if he just shared his thoughts, no matter how insignificant they might be. They might distract her from the pain that has caused her to shed tears. Even for just a moment.

The lord lowered himself into a squat, paying no heed to the dust that gathered on the edges of his hanbok, as he met the lady's solitary gaze. Even with tear-streaked features, she appeared ethereal to him, and he couldn't help but imagine how radiant she would be if painted with happiness. After all, a smile was always a beautiful sight.

"Despite not being the one to personally purchase these confections, I can assure you that they have continued to brighten my otherwise lackluster days. So I share your sentiments..with being sad about closing and all. I know there are many establishments in the marketplace like yours, I believe I know of one directly across my leather house, but its not quite the same if it doesn't come from here. It's just not the same." He says, offering her a small reassuring smile.

"Anyway, its not like the words of a stranger matter much at this moment, but if you'd like to talk..I'm right here. You can do away with calling me with titles, I'm just a customer afterall, The name is Seokjin. Min Seokjin. And you are?"

@❀ min seokjin It was odd, just slightly odd, as Gureum stared at the handkerchief in the other’s hand that was being offered to him, and for the longest while, she stared at him in silence, her mind wondering why this man was in front of her shop, offering a stranger probably something that personal to him. However, this mere gesture only prompted more tears to cascade down her cheeks. This was so embarrassing—maybe just a little.

Gureum was a lady who barely cried. For years, many years after her ex-fiancé’s death, it was known to many around her that she had a heart of steel, a lady that barely showed any emotions to anyone, her smile only reserved for those close to her but had sometimes unconsciously shown it.

Undoubtedly, this encounter had caught her by surprise. “it’s.. it’s okay.” She extended her hand out to give his hand a little push. “t-thank you.” From behind the sleeves of her hanbok—which she used to cover her face—were soft sniffles. Turning away, she wiped the remaining tears away before she returned her focus to him.

“favourite? But I’ve never seen you around.” She said bluntly. Her business was small and personal; if there was anything, Gureum was gifted with an excellent memory, allowing her to remember most of her usual customers. So how could someone say her rice cakes were their favourite if she had never seen him come by before?

“I’m sure you got the wrong place….” She took a quick sweep up and down his figure, noticing that his hanbok was definitely made of fine cloth—definitely not something they could afford, not anymore, anyway. And she did not doubt a single bit that this stranger was from a prominent household. “… young lord. Forgive me, but perhaps you’re jesting? How could my tiny business produce something that your palette desires? Perhaps you have come to the wrong place?” she continued. “The marketplace is filled with numerous such establishments as mine; maybe your feet have brought you to the wrong place.”

As she finally secured the doors of ddeok-ddeok-hae, she turned to him, a complete change from the crying lady previously, now a visage voided of any noticeable emotions. “I’m sure there will be no lack of rice cake shops in the vicinity, my lord.”

@❁ hong gureum [h] Its been a slow day in the workshop. With only a few customers coming in to either purchase new leatherware or ask for saddle repairs. Either way, his brother failed to deliver his weekly rice cake provision. The eldest Min had always been busy running the shop that is why he's always sent his brother on the errand. And being a creature of habit, someone who looked forward to the very few constants in his life, Min Seokjin is bothered by its sudden absence.

"Won, could you please watch the shop? I'll be going out for a bit. You can close it if no one comes in another hour. We can use leaving early for today anyway."

Seokjin unrolls his sleeve and attempted to fix his hair. All while on a mission to find his favorite snacks. He wasn't exactly on a quest to charm anyone, so he simply grabbed a bag of muns—enough to treat himself to several bags of seongpyeons and tteok.


"I'll be back," he announced before stepping out through the front door. Despite never having visited the establishment called Ddeok-Ddeok-Hae before, he quickly obtained directions from a few fellow business owners. Discovering that it was conveniently close to the leather house only heightened his excitement.

"But I heard they're closing their doors for good today?" An ahjumma chimes in Seokjin and another business owner's conversation about the weather and directions.

"What ever do you mean they're closing for good?" Dread settles over his features. Where else would he get his rice cakes now? Another constant disappearing in his life. No matter how small and insignificant it may seem to other people, to the leathersmith, it was something he looked forward to every week.

"The famine hit them really hard."

He does not listen to another word and instead hurried off to wherever the man had just directed him to. If he was fast enough perhaps he could still buy some for the last time.

But he would be too late.


Instead of the bustling shop he expected, he was greeted by a locked door and a woman sitting by it. His chest heaved rapidly from the sprint, but he composed himself as he approached her.


She rose to meet him, but he was taken aback by the tears staining her otherwise lovely visage. She was... beautiful. Melancholic but beautiful, like the subject of a western painting depicting ethereal beings like naiads. Seokjin reached for his handkerchief, offering it to her before answering her question with one of his own.


"Are you alright? I was actually just coming to buy some rice cakes when I heard you were closing for good today. I'm really sorry to hear that. Your rice cakes were one of my favorite things," Seokjin said, realizing he was rambling. Comforting others was among the few things he felt less adept at, but he sensed that the woman in front of him needed it more than anything at that moment.

@❀ min seokjin Ever since Dooyoon’s passing, one would have never expected a drastic change from the once jovial girl, now closed off and kept mostly to herself. previously sought after for her expertise in his majesty's medical team, it was a huge shock to many of her surrounding friends and relatives when Gureum decided to retire early from the medical scene.

For the longest time, Gureum felt empty, lost—aimless, in fact. The many things that she had once looked forward to in the future; apart from being a hopeful royal physician, would have been getting married, settling down, and starting a family with the love of her life. Yet, even that changed overnight. Her dream swept away in an instant when she received her beloved’s body wrapped in straws, blood seeping through it. That day, as she stared at his lifeless body, her heart died along with him.

Gureum doesn’t recall the last time she was happy after that incident. Not until four years ago, when she had decided she wanted to open a rice cake shop in memory of her ex-fiancé, and with the help of her friends, she had built up ddeok-ddeok-hae to where it was today.

All until now.

Shutting her rice cake shop was never Gureum’s intention, not with the memories or the reasoning behind the start of the business. No one would have thought there would be a day where she would, once again, face the same thing of feeling a sense of loss and aimlessness as she closed the doors to her establishment.

Squatting down by the foot of the door to lock it, she feels a sense of melancholy wash over her. Would her father be disappointed with her? Would her friends, who helped her, be disappointed in her? Would Dooyoon be disappointed in her? A myriad of such questions ran through her troubled mind.

However, the silence doesn’t last long before she hears a set of feet hurrying in her direction, almost a little too urgent. Looking up from her own reverie, she meets the gaze of a man, a stranger, his hair disheveled, his eyes wide, and a puzzled look written all over his face.

Standing up, Gureum wipes her tear-filled eyes with her sleeves before turning to him, “y-yes? Can I help you?”

@❀ han bin Fumes from the detritus of riots weeks prior carried over to the marketplace. The tension between the upper class and lower-class vendors was palpable. Those who harked their wares, decrying struggles, have a melancholy coloring their tone. The usual luster in their demeanor was not reflected in their eyes. Hana felt she was in the liminal state; she was formally a cheonmin—a nobi at that—but she lived amongst the luxury in the Ryu Estate.

Carrying the basket she normally used, she twiddled and shook it gently, the emptiness reminiscent of the breakout of the famine. Like ripples on water evoked by a tossed stone, the residual effects were seen by the dwindling supply of food, or at least food unsullied by the disease.

Sighing softly, she walked away from the stalls in resignation and headed towards the artisan shops. Perhaps merchants in this area were safe from the epicenter of said illness or disease, and they still held goods that she could feast with her eyes.

Whilst lingering by what she assumed to be a ceramic shop, with a row of vases lined up and shelves reserved for porcelain and fine china, Hana sighted a face from afar, one she did not expect to resurface. The doll-like features of his face rang familiar to her, ashamedly. Instead of the cloying sentimentality a maiden reserves for their exes, the dread of recognition filled her mind.

As soon as he waved goodbye to the other ladies, who seemed smitten by his charm, she evaded his gaze by running away from the shop as quickly as she could. Unfortunately, her mind and feet clashed, inevitably causing her to trip and fall. A premonition of her drawing attention from the man only exacerbated her embarrassment, as she continued to lay low instead of facing him bravely with dignity. But how dignified can you be when you tripped over your own two feet?

@❀ park heeryong The performance had come to an eventful end and the crowd began to disperse like ants, but Duan stood there unwavering, eyes locked on the standout dancer. Soon, they rallied with baskets, holding them out to collect any compensation for watching the show. She noticed how not many people had placed any sentiments or regards to the woven baskets. However, she continued to watch as the dancer made his way through the crowd, his smile was sincere with piercing eyes.

Soon, he stood in front of her. Duan couldn’t help but feel curious as he spoke to her, and her face reddened with a soft blush. Was it obvious that she was a foreigner? She contemplated. Despite being far from home, meeting someone who was curious about her origins made her feel a sense of connection. Thankfully, her short stay in Joseon and at Maehwa place had allowed her to brush up on her language skills.

"I am from Siam,” she spoke with a gentleness in her voice. “Your performance was wonderful. Such shows are a rarity in my homeland.”

Then her gaze drifted to the vibrant colors of his costume, admiring the details and design. As her eyes landed on his woven basket, she naturally reached into her pocket, pulling out a few coins, a small allowance she had saved up while doing some chores and labor at the residence.

Placing the small donation into his basket, she said once more, “you danced wonderfully.”

@❃ jung hana It was a bright morning when the hustle and bustle of the marketplace peaked. Bin, often found hunched at the back of the ceramic shop, usually stands outside for a few minutes, watching the people walk by, exchanging pleasantries and conversing about sweet nothings. It was a routine day for Han Bin who was merely enjoying the basic pleasures of daily life in the heart of Hanseong's economy.

During this time, he would frequently strike up conversations with familiar faces. And today, too, he was approached by the ladies who often stop by to admire his new creations. However, as today's wares were not new, he merely offered to engage them in conversation which some people often mistakenly interpret as an act of flirting. (Usually causing trouble for Han Bin, unbeknownst to him.)

He wasn't as dense as most people assume. However, Bin is indeed rather unsure of how things tend to progress when it comes to the topic of love and relationships. He is dense but not exactly inexperienced.

Waving goodbye to the ladies who had already bid him farewell, he let his sight roam once more.

Before briefly doing a double take towards someone who he seems to have caught sight of out of the corner of his eye. However, there was no one there. He whispered, "Was I just imagining things?" It was indeed a long time since he saw her last. It was enough to give Bin a rush as he let his eyes wander around urgently trying to see if his imaginations was really playing tricks on him.

He took a step out and peered around once more, trying to seek out a face that he used to think was the most beautiful sight he'd ever laid his eyes on. "Hana." He whispered in disappointment as he realized he must've seen it wrong.

[post deleted by owner]

@✿ moon jaehoon The shop owner, a skilled embroiderer with years of experience, greeted Yejun with a warm smile as Jaehoon introduced him. Yejun returned the smile, grateful for Jaehoon's assistance in finding the perfect place to personalize his gift. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Baek Yejun," the shop owner said, her voice kind and welcoming. "I'd be honored to assist you with your request. May I know her name and how you would like it to be?"
She gestured for Yejun to follow her to a table adorned with various threads and needles. "Her name is Eun, Seo Eun." he stated while taking a folded paper out of his pocket to give it to the embroiderer to make sure she wrote the right character. "and please write this in the inner side of the bag." he pointed to his nickname for his beloved that's written on the paper.
As the shop owner listened attentively, her nimble fingers moved with precision as she selected the appropriate thread colors and prepared the fabric for stitching. Yejun watched in fascination as she worked, admiring her skill and attention to detail. Once everything was ready, the shop owner began the delicate process of embroidering the name onto the gift, her movements smooth and practiced. Yejun couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building as he watched Eun's name slowly come to life on the fabric.
As the final stitches were made, the shop owner presented the completed embroidery to Yejun with a smile. "There you go, Baek Yejun," she said, handing him the beautifully personalized gift. "I hope it brings joy to the heart of your beloved."
"Thank you. I truly hope so too." He sincerely thanked the shop owner before taking the gift in hand. He then made his payment before bowing to the older lady and turned to the other man, the new friend he had made.
"I'm sorry to make you wait here. Must be boring. In return, allow me to treat you some meal or drinks for introducing me this place." He offered Jaehoon, sincerely wanted to thank the other guy as well.

@❁ hong yeoreum Lord? Oh, now that was rich. Rich like he was not. He had not been a lord for a long time now, and hearing the title felt like a mockery of his former status and glory. To think that he, now bloodied, beaten, and broken, had once been a /lord/. The eldest of his family, on the track to do great things for his country. Funny how all it took was a spark and an easterly wind to ruin all of that. Now he was nothing.

The Go family was kind, and Geon had grown up alongside them. It was that closeness that made his position of bodyguard all the more humiliating. Once equal, friend, turned into a servant. He was no better than a meat shield for the eldest Go brother. Not that Geon thought Miro thought that of him--it was his own disdain hazing his vision, the alcohol brushing the edges with hues of green jealousy and red anger. Geon should be sitting beside Miro as an equal, not standing behind him with a hand on his sword. What had he come to? If they had been reduced to any other class, Geon would feel some spark of hope, some guess that he could claw his way back up. But cheonmin? The odds were stacked against him. Cheonmins stayed cheonmins. They did not make a miraculous recovery and climb their way to the top. That was a thing of fairytales.

"Just Geon is fine," he managed out behind a rueful laugh. "I am lord of nothing and no one. Not anymore. Not for a while." He swayed in the men's arms, grunting. He squinted at the young lady in front of him, attempting to clear the blurriness from his vision. Shaking his head, he focused slightly. Help. Treat his wounds. What kind of fairy had he met today? Perhaps she was a gumiho and would eat him later. All the better.

"Do your worst," he said with a sigh, head hanging down. "Treat me, heal me, then allow me to rejoin my shame once more." The alcohol had made his lips loose today. Usually he kept everything in. He had his siblings to think of, after all. He did not want them seeing him like this--so full of bitterness, of anger. They had all been too young to remember clearly the days before they had fell from grace. But he remembered everything. And he would endure, but only for them. Tomorrow he would perhaps wake up sober with some cuts and would return to his daily life without complaint. Just like always. And this kind soul would perhaps feel like a figment of his imagination.

@✾ duan somsri Another day, another performance. For this one Heeryong had joined a travelling troupe to perform a graceful, vibrant dance. They wore colourful, fluttering fabrics that twirled with each step as they acted out the tale of a hero of war. The crowd cheered and laughed and sighed, engrossed in their storyteller's engaging tale.

People came and went and the story continued on. Some spectators had taken a seat, others lingered only for however long they could before tending to their errands. Heeryong was exhausted, but elated. He loved to perform. He loved the expression on the people's faces, the joy - and the distraction - it brought to their often difficult lives. Knowing that the people who stopped to watch left with a spring in their step made it all worth it.

And then, finally, the final scene begun. Heeryong stepped into the centre of the circle that had naturally formed and threw his arms to the sides. His body spun, layers of thin fabric erupting around him as if illuminating the space around him. Each step was made with purpose and expression, showing his experience. His family had never let him learn dance, naturally, but there was always a way if you truly wanted to. He had been dancing for as many years as that unusual-looking girl in the crowd had most likely lived. She stood out, not just for her delicate feminine face but for her overall features. She did not look like most girls from Joseon and as Heeryong struck his final pose and the dancers around him too came to a rest, he wondered where she was from. Being from a family of traders he had met many a foreigner. He could tell if someone was from here or not.

Heeryong smiled at the crowd and picked up a basket. Some spectators, knowing that now was the time to pay up, quickly fled the scene, others began to rummage in their pockets for anything they could afford to give. Heeryong did not care if people paid or not, but the troupe needed money to eat and to buy a place of rest. He smiled at everyone as he passed them, passing now and then to let people drop a little something into the basket and ended up in front of the girl. Dark, cat-like eyes looked at her with measured curiosity. "Hello.", he greeted simply, a familiar lurch of excitement in the pit of his stomach, "Where are you from?" Ah, how embarrassing it would be if he had gotten it all wrong and she was indeed from Joseon.

@✿ jang ilwoo (can I just say: *SWOONS* omfg)

@❁ hong yeoreum As Yeoreum stumbled over her words, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, Ilwoo found himself captivated by her endearing vulnerability. The way she bit her lip and averted her gaze, as if unsure of herself, only added to her allure. It was a rare sight in a world where people often wore masks of confidence and composure, and it drew Ilwoo in like a moth to a flame.

Her bashful demeanor held a charm that seemed to deepen with each passing moment, as if she were revealing a piece of her true self to him in this brief exchange. It was as if she wore her heart on her sleeve, her genuine reaction adding an unexpected depth to their encounter amidst the hustle and bustle of the market.

Her compliment, though unexpected, elicited a soft chuckle from Ilwoo. His smile grew warmer, genuine amusement dancing in his eyes as he responded, "Thank you." His voice, smooth and velvety, carried a hint of playful appreciation at her unexpected flattery. "You certainly know how to make a man feel special."

Observing her hand flying up to hide her embarrassed expression, Ilwoo felt a gentle curiosity stir within him. He longed to unravel the layers of her personality hidden beneath that shy exterior, to understand the thoughts and emotions swirling behind those expressive eyes. "No need to be embarassed," he reassured her, his tone gentle and reassuring. "Your words are like a breath of fresh air in this busy marketplace."

Inwardly, Ilwoo appreciated Yeoreum's boldness in approaching him. He had always been a rake, never one to deny any woman who showed him interest, finding it refreshing and even flattering.

@✿ jang ilwoo Hyunji regarded Ilwoo with a mixture of surprise and gratitude at his offer. She had not expected such kindness from a stranger, especially one with ties to a prestigious clan like the Jang family. Despite her initial reservations, she found herself warming to the idea of accepting his assistance.

"I appreciate your concern, Lord Ilwoo," Hyunji replied, her voice soft but resolute. "I would be grateful for your to the marketplace. It seems I am in need of a guardian angel today." She couldn't help but smile at the irony of the situation, the image of a stoic warrior coming to her aid like something out of a folktale.

With a nod of agreement, Hyunji gestured for Ilwoo to lead the way, her maids falling into step behind them as they made their way through the forest. The tension that had hung in the air during the bandit attack began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect between the unlikely pair.

As they walked, Hyunji couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity about Ilwoo and his connection to the Jang clan. She knew little about the inner workings of noble families, but she sensed that there was more to his story than met the eye. Perhaps, she thought, their encounter was no mere coincidence, but a twist of fate that had brought them together for a reason.

As they approached the marketplace, Hyunji glanced up at Ilwoo, a grateful smile playing on her lips. "Thank you, Lord Ilwoo," she said sincerely. "Your assistance has been invaluable. I hope we may meet again under better circumstances." Then the servants starts to gather all the fabrics to be brought to her shop. "Would you like to stay for a while and have some cup of tea? I did not mean to bother you if you have something important you must do, but this is the only gratitude I could give for now, Lord Ilwoo." She told her and bows again gently.

@✿ moon hyeongwon "You're too kind, really," she chuckled softly as she tucked the list away for now.

Miyoung wasn't used to having someone accompany her on errand runs. Usually, Suji was busy with her work or with her other obligations and she always offered to send the nobi with a guard, but Miyoung insisted on being on her own. When she was working with her father, she'd always run the errands while he stayed to focus on work. The hustle and bustle of the marketplace had become part of her, a jungle she had conquered as a young girl.

So she easily noticed the careless man barreling towards them, and she was more than prepared to sidestep in order to avoid being bumped into, but she didn't have to - with Hyeongwon stepping in between the two. The action made her chuckle softly to herself, gently patting the marquess on his shoulder. "You know I grew up navigating the marketplace on my own, ever since I was a child, right?," she teased. "But thank you, you're a real gentleman."

Shortly after, they arrived at the jewelry shop and Miyoung watched as Hyeongwon studied the merchandise. He had a keen eye, indeed. She began perusing the finely crafted stones and jewels, trying to decide what would look best with the spring-like hanbok that was being tailored for Suji. Something that would highlight her beauty and bring warmth to her face... and match her peach colored lipstick. Shaking her head to herself, she reminded herself that she shouldn't be so overwhelmed thinking about her Lady like that. It was improper.

Then she noticed a small set of jewelry; a cherry blossom shaped hair clip with matching necklace. The small pink diamonds that made up the blossoms were set within gold that shimmered in the midday sun. The tint of gold would add warmth and the pink matched so well with the pink silk that was selected for Suji's hanbok. Miyoung peered into her coinpurse, making sure she had enough to pay for the accessories. Once she confirmed she had enough, she placed the order with the shopkeeper to package the pieces and have them delivered to the Ahn Estate. Even if she wanted to carry the jewelry home herself, it would be dangerous to do so. Like Hyeongwon said, there were sketchy characters lurking around.

With the order placed, Miyoung looked around the shop and found Hyeongwon, making her way over to where he was and she looked curiously at whatever had his attention. "Something caught your eye?"

@❀ seo hyunwoo Almost immediately, Hyunjung feels a wave of irritation wash over her, which is quite a rarity, really. She is often more cordial when she is under the guise of Jaewoo's identity, but perhaps the assumption that /she/ of all people is a thief has simply rubbed her nerves wrong. She cannot help the frown on her face as she looks up at the man, scoffing through her nose. "I, for the record, am not a scholar, nor am I on the run," she says. "Between the two of us... aren't you the scholar one?" she continues, as she eyes the books that have scattered around. This is quite one of the worst ways to introduce herself to another, even if introducing herself was not exactly part of the plan.

But she's already gone and done it. She thinks she can feel light stinging on a small area of her palm.

At least she's lucky that her headwear isn't thrown off, or else, this would even be bigger than it's supposed to be, though... this man isn't anyone she knows from her day life, so to speak. So she should be safe, even if her disguise does fall through. She won't have to see him again; it isn't as if she meets a lot of people in her day life anyway.

"It isn't my fault you're not looking where you're walking," she mumbles petulantly. But she watches, bewildered, as the stranger shoves coins into his pocket. Instinctively, she's taking a few steps back, staring at the stranger curiously. "Are you trying to make /me/ your errand boy, ahjussi?" she says, and her disbelief is obvious in the way she speaks, eyebrows furrowed.

She isn't giving much of a chance, however, to say anything else, as the book bag is placed upon her hands, and she's being ushered to walk. Should she be worried? A stranger is trying to bring her home, even if her guise is a man—but she isn't /too/ worried, at least. If need be, she can defend herself. Her brother didn't teach her how to fight for nothing.

"You—!" She cuts herself easily, however, when she hears the his name. Seo Hyunwoo... Where has she heard of that name before? It rings a bell of familiarity, but not enough for her to remember anything. She frowns even more, but decides that she isn't going to escape. At least, not yet. She sighs instead, adjusting the book bag in her arms. "I'm Jaewoo," she answers carefully. "I really am not the best candidate for if you want stories, ahjussi. We have the storytellers for that."

@❀ yoo hyunjung He couldn't help but find the situation amusing, especially as the stranger's cheeks flushed with embarrassment. Hyunwoo chuckled, the sound low and warm in the dimly lit street. "Whoa there, seems someone's got a feisty side." He took a moment to examine the figure before him. The moonlight cast long shadows, obscuring most details, but Hyunwoo couldn't help but notice the way this man's voice seemed to drop an octave when he spoke. It piqued his curiosity.

"Not a thief, huh?" He teased, a playful glint in his eyes. "Then perhaps you could explain why you're sprinting through the streets at this ungodly hour, dressed like a..." he trailed off, picking up the books that scattered around, dusting it off too in between, "A scholar on the run?", he continues as he gaze the last book landing the other's feet. He stood up first before extended his hand, giving a glance down once again on this still fiesty figure's feet, sending him a signal that hopefully he understood. Hyunwoo tilted his head, furrowed his eyebrows together when he finally mets the other man's eye properly. He held her gaze for a beat longer, a flicker of something unfamiliar crossing his features. But the darkness and the strangeness of the encounter made him shrug it off.

Hyunwoo lays out the cloth that supposedly secure his book together from flying around. He stack the book once again before tying it up together properly this time, making sure if there is anoter collision with a figure that is smaller than him, it will not once again, flew all over the place. "No need for excuses. Running in the dark streets like this, you're bound to bump into someone sooner or later," he replied, his voice laced with amusement.

"Looks like you're in a hurry", he tilted his head, looking behind this young man for any figure chasing him, in case his impromptu assumption that the man infront of his is truly a thieve. No trace of anyone. He swats himself off before passing the cloth that turns into a bag filled with books towards this other man. He scoops some coins out of his pocket too and shoving it to the other's pocket. "Though," he continued, a hint of a challenge in his voice, "I wouldn't mind hearing your story defending yourself on why you arent a thief and..." Hyunwoo wrap his hand around the other's shoulder, guide them both down the road he supposed to be intially. "Since you bumped into me, you should help me cary all those back to my house. I believe Ive paid you enough. As extra payment for accompanying our walk with your story, I will reward you with some rice wine at home. agree? cool! lets go". It doesnt took Hyunwoo that much strength to push this smaller guy walk together with him. "Hyunwoo by the way, Seo Hyunwoo", he introduce himself, for courtesy.

@❃ na garam The night air seemed to have shifted like the tides as the emotions that drew across the woman opposite him was enough to tell him the tales of her hardship and turmoil. It was true that he only knew what was on the surface from the childhood tales that Myunghee had spun for him some nights. He remembered his late wife’s soft reveries of the life she once knew with the person who is standing in front of him now. It’s uncanny how suddenly, even Suho began to question how much of those memories could stand on their own through the trials of time.

But as the woman snapped at him for referring to her by the only name he had known her by and soon revealed her true name and identity, he could only acknowledge her frustration that sat on her shoulders from years of turning away her grief and loss. Suho, too, knew that feeling all too well.

“Na Garam,” he repeated her name softly, committing it to memory; allowing it to rest on his tongue like a silent whisper or a shared secret between two souls in the stillness of the night.

Suho listened as Garam recounted the tragic events of her life which had led to her this moment, and he could not help but ache with her. The pain and loneliness that lingered within her was a heavy burden that she had carried alone all these years. But, when she expressed her wish that he would not have found her, Suho’s expression softened with concern, but also confusion.

He wondered how many people in this city knew her—truly knew her apart from the shadows and the moonlight away from the fortunes she told and weaved through dreams. How many streets in the capital had held them by the seconds before they walked past each other time and time again, how many flowers had they both looked and adored, how many coins had been passed by his palm, person to person, and landed in hers? Even he, himself, had felt apologetic for only finding her now.

“I understand if my sudden appearance may be intruding in your life, Na Garam,” he said gently. “But please believe me when I say that I only mean well. I could not face Myunghee in the afterlife if I had not been able to find you and give her answers.”

He watched as Garam's expression softened, even if just for a moment, and he wanted nothing more than to ease her burden.

“My family and I would welcome you if you ever need help.” He offered sincerely, “Saebom, my daughter—your niece—she would be overjoyed to have you as an aunt. And my sisters, they would embrace you as one of their own."

He tried to hold her gaze although she avoided his. "Please, let us help you. You don’t have to be alone anymore.”

@✿ jang ilwoo Yeoreum was having a great time. She loved handsome men, she loved admiring them and daydreaming about what speaking with them might be like. It was one of her favourite past times and the main culprit behind her frequent crushes. Very rarely she would attempt to strike up a conversation, and even more rarely attempt to pursue them. Ah, but as fate would have it this particular dashing man was steadily strolling closer and closer to where she stood. He was leisurely admiring the joys of the marketplace. He looked so far removed from any worries real people might have. Ah, but that could be Yeoreum's rose-tinted glasses talking.

And then, suddenly, he turned. His deep eyes met hers and Yeoreum... startled. Her body moved by itself, arms drawing closer to her torso, eyes widening, her cheeks darkening. The sudden sway of her upper body made her fumble with her step. Her foot caught on a protruding rock on the ground and she felt herself stumbling. Her lips parted in surprise. She was mortified. Why did she have to trip over a stupid rock right now?!

A split second later a warm hand had grasped her arm. A non-intrusive but firm touch. He was touching her. Yeoreum looked up at the young man, lips still parted slightly. Her heart was beating so quickly she could barely hear anything else. His voice... he even sounded handsome. 'He- he's looking at me!' Not just looking, he was looking at her so gently, so earnestly. Yeoreum couldn't help but sink into those deep eyes. Her cheeks were flushed a bright pink now. "Y- yes!", she stuttered and glanced down at her feet bashfully, only for her gaze to dart back up to meet his once more. "Thank you..."

'Come on. Say something witty, something charming. Say something. Don't let him just leave!'

"I- You're so handsome!"

'NO! Why! Why did you say that!?!'

Yeoreum's hand flew up to hide her embarrassed and shocked expression.

@❀ han bin Panic is evident in the way Hyunjung runs, careful despite her speed, with a ceramic vase clutched within her arms. It is cold, and her nose and cheeks are painted a rather painful shade of crimson. She barely realizes that she isn't dressed appropriately for the season, days having turned into winter as the end of the year approaches. She isn't even dressed in her usual attire during the night, merely clad in what she's worn since morning and what she's brought to work.

But that is of no matter, especially when her mind is filled with panic, an urgency. The vase in her hands has been... cracked, to say the least, with a piece of it broken and now placed inside of it. She isn't certain if this can still be fixed, but she'd be damned if she doesn't even try.

Soon enough, she reaches a familiar ceramic shop. And right as she's about to knock, the door opens, revealing a face that she never thought she'd be so relieved to see. (She almost tears up, just a little, but she will never acknowledge that.)

"Han Bin!" she calls rather breathlessly, and she takes a deep, shaky breath, before she's holding the vase towards him, bowing almost immediately. "Please—Please fix this for me."

@❀ kim hyunji As Hyunji shared her connection to Hyukjae, Ilwoo's emotions swirled within him like a tempest. His brows furrowed slightly, surprised to learn that his brother had shared a significant part of his life with someone outside of the Jang clan, someone he barely knew. Tension had always simmered between them, and Hyukjae had rarely divulged much about his personal affairs, leaving Ilwoo to wonder about the life his brother led beyond their family's confines.

The revelation ignited a spark of curiosity within Ilwoo, a desire to uncover more about Hyukjae's experiences and the people he had encountered. "Perhaps one day I should too patronize your shop," Ilwoo suggested with a playful tone, his lips quirking into a small smile as he saw Hyunji's own smile in response. "But you'll make something good for me, like what you had for my brother." He quipped with a hint of jest. He imagined the memories they shared must have been precious, each one a glimpse into Hyukjae's life outside of the rigid expectations of their clan.

Ilwoo couldn't help but feel a pang of surprise at Hyukjae's mention of the Jang clan during his interactions with Hyunji. Knowing how their family treated Hyukjae, who often felt overshadowed by their other brothers, Ilwoo wondered if Hyukjae had ever mentioned him, the overlooked middle child, to his acquaintances. It was a revelation that left him pondering the complexities of his brother's life and the relationships he had formed beyond their home.

Reflecting on the unlikely turn of events that had brought him and Hyunji together, Ilwoo couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to their encounter than met the eye. It was as if fate had orchestrated their meeting, weaving together their lives in ways they could not have anticipated.

As they prepared to part ways, Ilwoo felt a sense of responsibility towards Hyunji's safety. "Although the bandits are gone, I fear they may return," he admitted, his concern evident in his voice. "Would you allow me to you to your destination?" His offer was genuine, a testament to his commitment to ensuring her well-being even beyond the immediate threat they had faced together.

@❀ yoo hyunjung Lost in his craft, Bin has always ended up closing the business rather late. It gets him in trouble with the clan's head servant, but it was already a typical occurrence for Han Bin to become so lost in his trade while his hands were getting dirtied and busy molding. It was a job that required turning off the noise in one's thoughts and focusing solely on the task at hand to properly create the shape he desired.

As he trudged towards the sink to wash his hands, he looked out the window and saw the bright, shining moon. It was a starless night, and he immediately knew what kind of repertoire the head servant would discuss once he got to the manor. He never takes it to heart as the head servant only ever wants to look out for him. Even in his youth, he's been one to be worried about after all.

"Young Master!" One of their manor's servants pushed open the curtains of the workshop in a hurry. "The head servant will have my head on a silver platter if you do not hurry home!" The anguish on the man's face caused Bin to erupt into light laughter. "Hong Dan, you worry too much. I shall be headed home in a moment. I will blow off the torches, and you may come back to lock up once I do." Bin gives the older man an affectionate grin. "I promise. You may go tend to your other duties." The other male released a long sigh before bowing once and heading out of the shop. 

He turned to clean up after himself, ultimately emerging out of his favorite space. Han Bin gave one last glance around the shop before blowing out the light fixtures, carrying his own small flambeau, and pushing the shop's door open, ready to head home for the night.

@❀ park heeryong In this foreign land, everything at the marketplace was fascinating to Duan. From the items that were on display in stalls, to the various traders and shoppers that swarmed the pathways, the young Siamese girl often enjoyed going for daily walks just to blend in with the crowd.

But, today was unlike other days. She heard music and laughter that weaved through the crowd. Like a curious kitten, she followed until she reached a clearing where a small audience had gathered around a makeshift stage. The decorations drew colorful banners that fluttered in the breeze as a troupe of performers dressed in costumes moved in rhythm to the music.

Duan watched with wide-eyed wonder as acrobats soared through the air as musicians played melodies across strings and drums. And at the center of it all, was a storyteller who wove a heroic tale. She could not decipher the words of his story due to the language barrier, but as the crowd erupted into applause and cheers, Duan found herself following along. In Siam, such performances were rare and reserved for royalty and festivities, but here in Joseon, the people seemed to enjoy these impromptu performances.

Then, a dancer caught her eyes. Clad in vibrant silk robes that swirled around like a kaleidoscope of colors, the dancer moved with grace and beauty. Every step and gesture was a mesmerizing spell that captivated the audience.

@❀ moon jinhee For a brief moment, seonhye saw a flash of sadness that lingered in her best friend’s eyes, and despite wanting to comfort jinhee, she knew it was much better if such sorrows weren’t brought up. Yet, at the mention of heejin’s name, Seonhye sees the opposite, a warmth that settled on Jinhee’s visage and she could not help but to release a soft chuckle. She couldn’t help but to wonder when her best friend would ever admit the feelings she held for the other? Or if any of them would. She prayed and hoped. But only time would tell.

“Heejin? I haven’t seen that pretty lady in a while.” ‘but i thought you might have’ The young marchioness wants to add, a little knowing grin on her face. “She is the busiest out of the three of us. But you see her often, huh?” Seonhye continues in a teasing tone as she sipped on her tea.

“but what have you been up to recently, jinhee-ya? I’ve been meaning to find you, but you know, the usual.” Seonhye shrugs a little. “mama has been crazy excited about this wedding”’not me’ those words lingered on the tip of her tongue before she continued with much amusement. “it’s as if she’s marrying duke cha instead of me.”