♔ post system.

@❃ seo jin [h] 《 a letter delivered by his physician's assistant, bearing no seal, instead closed by a silken ribbon clearly belonging to a woman, addressed to one lady Seo Jin, dated end of February 1870 》

My dearest Jin,

I have thought long and hard of a way to return this ribbon to you, as it seems to have come loose from your hair that one night when you lay dying in my sheets. Not only have I thought of a way to give it back to you while my duties are holding me back from seeing you in person, I have to confess that I have been keeping it for this long, due to utterly selfish, foolish reasons. For, you see, as long as it was in my possession, I was sure that you were alive and my mind had not played tricks on me as you walked away from me that morning. As long as this ribbon was wrapped around my fingers, I knew your scent wasn't lingering on my sheets because you had found a bitter end on top of them. I knew, you are alive and well, that I had fulfilled my oath and hadn't lost you.

Perhaps I should have given back, what belongs to you way sooner than I was able to stomach. Even as I am writing these words to you, I can not bring myself to do so. I am selfish when it comes to you, grasping for straws that will give me a better reason to come see you, other than seeking the comfort of your embrace. It is not what I care for, Jin. You see, your touch soothed me, while your smile and your voice have turned my mind into a desolation I find myself wandering whenever I think about that night. As I held you, my hands bloodied by the very essence of your life, I found myself afraid. Not for my promises, nor my honor as a physician. I have never felt such burning fear in my entire life, nearly rendering me useless upon being confronted with my duty of tending to your wounds.

My little songbird, never before have I been this afraid of letting someone die. I have long found my heart hardened in the face of death. But in that moment, I knew that I would grasp the reaper by the throat and force it to return you to me. I meant every single word I said that night, Jin. You will not die, as long as I am breathing. As long there is even the tiniest hint of light in my eyes, as long as my soul is still tethered to this body, I will not let any harm befall you. I am selfish, indeed. But I care about you too much to hold you so tightly, I might end up breaking you. I will not be the one smothering that light of yours.

You see, you told me to come seek you out. To not let what happened between us fade and become a distant memory to be thought about during lonely nights. I want to. I really do. But never will I touch your flesh again if it might make you think that I only seek you out for the pleasure of the flesh. I need more from you than that. You are a constant reminder of what we used to be. And it should hurt, I know. All it does, is make me smile.

I told you I won't promise to you that I won't give my life for yours and I stand by that. But I am in this with you, even if it takes me down with you. I do not care, can't bring myself to even try to care.

Oh, dearest bird of mine, if I have to open your cage with my own, humble hands in order to let you soar the skies again, I shall do it. You are meant to fly, Jin. You are meant to play between the clouds and bask in the warmest rays of sunshine. Never have I made you promise me anything. Today, I shall ask for a promise.

Promise me you will live life again. Not only for them. Not only for me. You said, one day you will do it for yourself. Do it now. Smile not for me, smile for yourself. The world is dark enough a place as is, already. Robbed of your smile, it might as well cease to exist.

And here I am, having rambled on for so long, yet I won't apologize. I know you will understand. You always have. Call upon me, my lady. I shall be waiting on your doorstep. I have always stood there, perhaps.

With the deepest gratitude,
Yours
Choi Jinseok

@✿ seol riah { delivered to the house of tiger, addressed to lady seol riah }

November 1st, 1869.

Dear Riah,

I’m afraid your missive has indeed brought me a great source of entertainment, a splash of colour to my rather dull and mundane days in my estate. i apologise for chuckling at your most unfortunate moments. please forgive me.

I did not think such information was of much use, but Lord Moon is an old friend of mine, despite the rather large age gap between us, i have found out that we can see eye to eye on many levels, i̶f̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶i̶n̶t̶e̶r̶e̶s̶t̶e̶d̶ ̶i̶n̶ ̶h̶i̶m̶ he’s simply like an older brother to me, however, trust when I say I would never turn to him for any major advice… i only jest.

i’m glad that you’ve decided to face on rather than run away, after all, my dearest, i do believe what doesn’t harm you will make you stronger. I pray that it may never happen again, however, I suppose if it does happen, you’ll probably know how to deal with it, or suppose if someone is as silly as you, you may be of tremendous help. I kid, your mental well being is of my utmost priority, i’m glad that everything has finally blown over.

Did i say heartache? perhaps it’s not an heartache, silly me. but i’m a lady whose heart yearns for her lover. t̶h̶a̶n̶k̶f̶u̶l̶l̶y̶ his lordship has made a surprise appearance yesterday, and yeonhwa and i wasn’t sure how we should have welcomed him. i̶t̶’̶s̶ ̶n̶o̶t̶ ̶e̶v̶e̶r̶y̶d̶a̶y̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶r̶ ̶f̶i̶a̶n̶c̶é̶e̶ ̶d̶e̶c̶i̶d̶e̶s̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶d̶i̶s̶a̶p̶p̶e̶a̶r̶ ̶f̶o̶r̶ ̶a̶ ̶f̶e̶w̶ ̶m̶o̶n̶t̶h̶s̶ ̶o̶n̶l̶y̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶s̶u̶d̶d̶e̶n̶l̶y̶ ̶a̶p̶p̶e̶a̶r̶ ̶a̶t̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶r̶ ̶g̶a̶t̶e̶s̶.̶ ̶w̶h̶o̶ ̶e̶v̶e̶n̶ ̶t̶o̶l̶d̶ ̶h̶i̶m̶?̶ i do feel bad for yeonhwa, since we’ve been staying together, she had to evict my room to allow marquess song to stay over. Which she shouldn’t have a̶n̶d̶ ̶i̶ ̶s̶h̶o̶u̶l̶d̶ ̶n̶o̶t̶ ̶h̶a̶v̶e̶ ̶g̶i̶v̶e̶n̶ ̶i̶n̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶e̶a̶s̶i̶l̶y̶.̶. Do you think I should drive him out to sleep in the other guest room instead? do you think I should forgive him, dearest friend?

I await your sane thoughts, because I clearly do not have any left.

Your perplexed best friend,
Ryu Aera.

p.s thought this might be a nice gift for each of us when I passed by the market place. According to the merchant, the threads was imported from Qing and the eunjangdo was crafted individually, that makes us each a holder of a very piece.

{ along with the letter was a small present placed into an crafted wooden box wrapped with a silk cloth. inside contain a hand-woven norigae with a small eunjangdo. https://i.imgur.com/XnFZRKy }

@✿ jin jaeyong ʟᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ #1: ᴛʜɪꜱ ʟᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ ᴡᴀꜱ ᴡʀɪᴛᴛᴇɴ, ʙᴜᴛ ɴᴇᴠᴇʀ ꜱᴇɴᴛ ᴏᴜᴛ. ᴘʟᴀᴄᴇᴅ ᴀᴡᴀʏ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ʜᴇʀ ᴏᴡɴ ᴘᴇʀꜱᴏɴᴀʟ ꜱᴛᴜꜰꜰ, ɴᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴇᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɢʜᴛ ᴀɢᴀɪɴ.

{ this letter was placed in an envelope, addressed to lord jin jaeyong }

Dated two days after the papers were released.

woori jaeyong,

i hope this letter finds you in good health and delightful spirits. I̶ ̶c̶a̶n̶’̶t̶ ̶s̶a̶y̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶s̶a̶m̶e̶ ̶f̶o̶r̶ ̶m̶e̶. I’m sure you have plenty personal matters to attend to r̶a̶t̶h̶e̶r̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶n̶ ̶e̶n̶t̶e̶r̶t̶a̶i̶n̶m̶e̶n̶t̶ ̶a̶ ̶m̶e̶r̶e̶ ̶l̶a̶d̶y̶ ̶l̶i̶k̶e̶ ̶m̶e̶.̶ but please remember to take care of yourself, especially now that the country is in a dire situation, i’m sure you have plenty of court matters to attend to, however, please remember that your health is always priority. Always remember your meals and take ample rest in between.

d̶e̶a̶r̶e̶s̶t̶ ̶j̶a̶e̶y̶o̶n̶g̶,̶ ̶w̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶d̶o̶ ̶I̶ ̶s̶e̶e̶k̶ ̶f̶r̶o̶m̶ ̶w̶r̶i̶t̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶t̶h̶i̶s̶ ̶m̶i̶s̶s̶i̶v̶e̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶?̶ ̶w̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶m̶y̶ ̶m̶o̶t̶i̶v̶e̶s̶?̶ ̶J̶u̶s̶t̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶p̶o̶u̶r̶ ̶o̶u̶t̶ ̶m̶y̶ ̶f̶e̶e̶l̶i̶n̶g̶s̶ ̶f̶o̶r̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶?̶ F̶r̶a̶n̶k̶l̶y̶,̶ ̶I̶’̶m̶ ̶n̶o̶t̶ ̶s̶u̶r̶e̶ ̶w̶h̶y̶ I̶̶̶’̶̶̶m̶̶̶ ̶̶̶w̶̶̶r̶̶̶i̶̶̶t̶̶̶i̶̶̶n̶̶̶g̶̶̶ ̶̶̶t̶̶̶h̶̶̶i̶̶̶s̶̶̶ ̶̶̶l̶̶̶e̶̶̶t̶̶̶t̶̶̶e̶̶̶r̶̶̶ ̶b̶u̶t̶ ̶a̶s̶ ̶i̶ ̶b̶r̶u̶s̶h̶ ̶t̶h̶i̶s̶ ̶w̶o̶r̶d̶s̶ ̶d̶o̶w̶n̶ ̶o̶n̶ ̶t̶h̶i̶s̶ ̶p̶a̶r̶c̶h̶m̶e̶n̶t̶ ̶p̶a̶p̶e̶r̶,̶ ̶m̶y̶ ̶h̶e̶a̶r̶t̶ ̶a̶c̶h̶e̶s̶ ̶a̶n̶d̶ ̶m̶y̶ ̶c̶h̶e̶e̶k̶s̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶s̶t̶a̶i̶n̶e̶d̶ ̶w̶i̶t̶h̶ ̶t̶e̶a̶r̶s̶ ̶I̶ ̶p̶r̶o̶m̶i̶s̶e̶d̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶n̶e̶v̶e̶r̶ ̶s̶h̶e̶d̶ ̶a̶f̶t̶e̶r̶ ̶d̶o̶o̶y̶o̶o̶n̶’̶s̶ ̶d̶e̶a̶t̶h̶.̶

B̶u̶t̶ ̶w̶h̶y̶ ̶a̶m̶ ̶I̶ ̶c̶r̶y̶i̶n̶g̶?̶

̶w̶h̶y̶ ̶d̶o̶e̶s̶ ̶i̶t̶ ̶h̶u̶r̶t̶ ̶s̶o̶ ̶m̶u̶c̶h̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶k̶n̶o̶w̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶i̶n̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶a̶r̶m̶s̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶a̶n̶o̶t̶h̶e̶r̶ ̶l̶a̶d̶y̶?̶ ̶D̶o̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶l̶o̶v̶e̶ ̶h̶e̶r̶?̶ ̶I̶s̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶w̶h̶y̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶’̶v̶e̶ ̶b̶o̶u̶g̶h̶t̶ ̶h̶e̶r̶ ̶o̶u̶t̶?̶ ̶a̶m̶ ̶i̶ ̶u̶n̶w̶o̶r̶t̶h̶y̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶r̶ ̶l̶o̶v̶e̶ ̶a̶n̶d̶ ̶a̶f̶f̶e̶c̶t̶i̶o̶n̶?̶

̶w̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶a̶m̶ ̶I̶?̶ ̶W̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶w̶e̶?̶

Unfortunately, a̶s̶ ̶m̶u̶c̶h̶ ̶a̶s̶ ̶I̶ ̶m̶i̶s̶s̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ddeok-ddeok-hae has been busy as of recent, I can barely catch a break. I̶ ̶m̶i̶g̶h̶t̶ ̶j̶u̶s̶t̶ ̶b̶e̶ ̶a̶ ̶c̶o̶w̶a̶r̶d̶ but I will not be able to visit you anytime soon. Promise, that you will take care of yourself. I̶ ̶w̶e̶n̶t̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶t̶e̶m̶p̶l̶e̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶o̶t̶h̶e̶r̶ ̶d̶a̶y̶,̶ ̶a̶n̶d̶ ̶g̶o̶t̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶a̶ ̶p̶r̶o̶t̶e̶c̶t̶i̶o̶n̶ ̶a̶m̶u̶l̶e̶t̶,̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶w̶i̶l̶l̶ ̶t̶a̶k̶e̶ ̶c̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶i̶n̶ ̶m̶y̶ ̶s̶t̶e̶a̶d̶.̶ It’s so silly of me to worry, but i’m sure you’ll be more than well taken care of in your estate.

y̶o̶u̶ ̶h̶a̶v̶e̶ ̶m̶y̶ ̶h̶e̶a̶r̶t̶.̶

Y̶o̶u̶r̶s̶ ̶a̶l̶w̶a̶y̶s̶
Your little cloud.

{ ᴏɴ ᴛʜᴇ ʟᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ, ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ᴡᴀꜱ ɴᴏᴛɪᴄᴇᴀʙʟᴇ ꜱᴍᴜᴅɢᴇꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛᴇᴀʀ ꜱᴛᴀɪɴꜱ. }

❁ ❁

ʟᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ #2: ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴡᴀꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ᴏɴʟʏ ʟᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ ꜱᴇɴᴛ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴊɪɴ ᴇꜱᴛᴀᴛᴇ, ᴇᴠᴇʀ ꜱɪɴᴄᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴀᴘᴇʀꜱ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ʀᴇʟᴇᴀꜱᴇᴅ.

{ delivered to the jin estate, addressed to lord jin jaeyong }

Dated mid-february, two weeks after the papers were released.

marquess jin,

I hope this letter finds you in delightful spirits and good health. I apologise for not writing to you soon than I would have liked to. However, I doubt you do have any personal time to catch up with my silly letter, especially now that the country is in a dire situation.

I always worry about your health, jaeyong, promise me that you’ll take good care of yourself, your health and body is always priority. Always remember to eat your meals on time and have ample sleep and rest. Take some time off your books and enjoy the picturesque landscapes of your estate We never got to admire them together, granted you’ve grown up seeing it.

worry not about me, lord jin, i’m just as busy as you are, especially with ddeok-ddeok-hae being busy. Unfortunately, that means, i will not be able to see you anytime soon. I know it’s silly of me to worry about you, but i’m sure you’ll be more than well taken care of in your estate.

until then.

your best friend,
hong gureum.

{ the letter was written hastily, not in her usually neat handwriting and placed in a plain envelope with a plain seal at the back. however, it was sent without her usual little delicacies that she would have personally made for jaeyong, neither was it personally delivered. }

[post deleted by owner]

@✿ jin onhui { delivered to the jin household, addressed to lady jin onhui. }

dated end february.

dearest young lady, onhui,

Receiving your letter has brought me great delight, knowing that you’ve woken up has brought peace to my heart, which meant that my prayers were heard by the heavens above. Your health and body is of utmost priority to me, do not worry yourself with matters outside while focusing on recovering.

I am doing well. While lady luck has not be on my side as of recent, i will not allow that to deter me from whichever.

I would love to visit you, however, I̶ ̶h̶a̶v̶e̶ ̶b̶e̶e̶n̶ ̶a̶v̶o̶i̶d̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶g̶o̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶r̶ ̶e̶s̶t̶a̶t̶e̶ i’ve been rather busy as of recent due to the recent famine. However, I would love you to see you again, my lady. I do not have much, but I hope that my little gift delights you.

Your friend,
Hong gureum.

{ along with the letter was a single-tier bamboo box, inside, filled with walnut cookies, green bean cookies and freshly made seonpyeon.}

@❀ oh jisung [ The letter was not particularly addressed anywhere, contained inside a white envelope and is sealed with the wax seal of the house of the Tiger ]

[ March 3rd, 1870 ]

You,

I suppose it is good to know that you have not fallen off the face of the earth.

I do not remember the last time that I have received one of these.. letters of yours. Do you truly remember what I look like after being away for so long? I doubt that. Since the absence of these missives, I must admit that I have let my guard down. No longer looking around when in public for traces that would lead me to uncovering your identity.

That changes now.. once again.
Do not think that I will give up, unmasking you. This will be the year.

Why hide behind missives and gifts when you can show yourself to me? Are you afraid that you may not be good enough to be in my presence?
Why, then, continue to be so audacious by sending me these... trinkets?

The newest member of our family is from Ilbon. I will ask her to confirm if what you're saying is indeed accurate.
I believe I do not need such superstition for me to get whatever I want. But despite all these frivolities, the hair pin is very well made. Its quite lovely. I imagine you're already familiar with my preferences, given the numerous tacky gifts that have made their way back to you over the years.

I find myself quite bored these days. Perhaps these missives shall keep me from perishing from boredom.
I'll keep this missive short, lest you think that I am actually interested in you. I am not..

-Seol Riah
薛 House of the Tiger
[ the letter is then delivered by the countess' hand maid to the twin rocks as instructed ]

@❀ yoo hyunsik Addressed to the Yoo Manor, House of the Grizzly Bear

February 11th, 1870

Dear Hyunsik,

Greetings, comrade. It has been a while since I have met you in person, or through missives. Or alternatively, through a sword fight. I missed those times, where we engage in friendly competition. I want to apologize for my tardiness in writing to you. I caught wind of news that you are turning a year older, in fact only a couple years away from the age of thirty. I wish many delightful returns on your birthday before then.

Please do not take offense to this, I am just a few days from turning into that age as well. Pray to the Buddha for sturdier knees, or whichever ritual suits your belief. I hope more wisdom will be imparted your way at the start of this new year.

I convened with an especially skilled blacksmith to design a sword befitting its future wielder. Wrapped gingerly in the finest cloth, is a sword awaiting its new owner. Of bamboo make and wielded by those who served in the Royal Army, this sword was not produced en masse.

You have led a life laden with strife and great sacrifice, preventing frivolous vices from impeding your progress. No need to make haste, however, I look forward to your return in the academy this summer.

Your sparring partner,
Ryu Songmin, House of the Willow Tree

[ The willow tree emblem was sealed over the letter in precise fashion. ]

https://i.imgur.com/E1vswnI.jpeg

[post deleted by owner]

@✿ seol riah <addressed to the House of the Tiger, Seol estate, Lady Seol Riah>

February 26th,1870

For the lady whose eyes shining brighter than the night full of stars.

Let me start this letter by offering you my deepest apology for not having to write you the letters like I usually have been. But believe me when I say, not a single day passed without me thinking about you and your radiant smile. Even when the vast sea separated us, all I can think about before I lay my head down on my pillow was how was your day could have been. Would you long for my letters just like how I long to read yours. I know you might think that it was just another meaningless words, but I only speak the truth. My heart yearns for you.

How long has it been since the first time I gathered my courage to send the letter to you? Five years? Six years? But I always feel like it was the first time whenever I grab my brush to write this letter for you. As soon as my feet stepped back on the ground, nothing else matters than to quickly write and send this to you, along with a little souvenir that I think would look lovely on you. Please do not see from how little it may be. I would offer you all the finest things in the whole world, if you wish for it. But for now, I hope you'd love the little hairpin I sent along with the letter. The hairpin with a small Inari engraved on it was said to bring a happiness and success, so I hope you will always be happy and achieve your own success in life, my lady. And along with it, a cherry blossom flower kanzashi hair pin would suits you well too.

Now since I am back home, I can write to you more often, just like before, and I hope I haven't bore you up with this. But if you do not wish to get another letter, you can always tell me so in your reply and I will drop it, because for me, I do not wish to see you uncomfortable with my action.

I am sorry I have to cut this short, my lady; for I have to attend another business matter which require my immediate attention. I hope to hear from you soon.


Sincerely, your admire

J.O


Ps. You can always ask your maid to deliver the reply under the twin rock like always. I hope you are always happy, my lady.

@✿ choi sunyoung 《 addressed to the abode of house Choi, Lady Choi Sunyoung, dated February 20th 1870 》

My dearest Sunyoung,

Once again my eloquence seems to fail me terribly, as I find myself staring down at the letter you sent to me, the words tugging at the strings tethering my heart to my very flesh. I wish I had an answer for, wish I could conceal my emotions from you like I'm able to do with most people in my life. But if anything, you deserve my honesty, as much as you deserve my forgiveness. For you have done nothing wrong, never have and it was I, who brought this misery upon us when I walked away. I told you before, but here with ink and paper I think my words will make more sense.

When you refused to marry me, I tried not to take it to heart. I tried not letting it besmirch my affection for you, no matter the shame and humiliation I felt whenever I thought about the way I asked for your hand in marriage, my heart soaring on wings of hope, only to be shot down by the arrow of a singular word. It was not the public embarrassment, or the dark spot your refusal had put on my reputation. Yes, that played a big part in how I felt, yet my heart was heavy with something else. What would a few years have changed? I could not help but to think that you were waiting for someone better to come along. Because, if you weren't sure of your love for me in that moment, would you ever be? If you didn't want to be mine forever, what was the reason? I felt insufficient and as if you deemed me unworthy of being by my side forever.

I know it was my pride speaking, whispering those poisonous words into my ear.

And now I find myself suffering as i write these lines, for my heart seems to be detached from my soul. My dearest Sunyoung, my light, my ghost, I wish I could tell you that I still love you. That my heart belongs to you and that day never changed a single thing. I can't do that. I'm plagued by these thoughts, my feelings escaping logic altogether. For the first time in my life, I don't know what to do. I don't want to hurt you, but I can't help but to speak from a place of pure honesty. I'm ashamed, Sunyoung. At a loss for words. I don't know what to do, how to put what I'm feeling into words.

My heart is always open, my sun.

Humbled, torn apart,
Jinseok

[post deleted by owner]

@❃ cho miyoung 《 addressed to the abode of house Ahn, one Cho Miyoung, dated november 30th, 1869 》

Dear Miyoung,

It pains me deeply to read these words, does your sadness not draw rainy clouds over the sunshine you carry in your heart. I do not believe that these traits are not desirable. Quite the opposite, yet perhaps it is easy for people like you to see the best in people when, maybe, they do not deserve it. I myself know a woman who is open and kind, who has never spoken a word of anger, despite me being more than provoking her anger. Why do you say that? You have the same grace and beauty as all the other women I have laid eyes on in my entire life. Why would a cunning woman be more desirable than one, who speaks her words with honesty and with all her heart?

Oh, dear lady, I think the times are changing and your age does not speak of any value your life has. Why should marriage be the be all, end all for a woman, when it isn't the end all, be all for a man? I'm not married yet, either. I know I'm a man and age plays little to no part in the way people see me. But forgive me for being so forward, I hope you can find it in your heart to think about what I will say next.

You should not fix your worth to what others think about you. Or if someone finds you desirable. If someone wants to marry you. A man, marriage, family, will not fill a void within yourself as deeply as self-loathing. I am scared you will fall recklessly for a man who does not deserve you, because of these things. Please do not break your own heart like that, Miyoung.

Sincerely,
Choi Jinseok
House of the Cloudy Mountain

@❀ choi jinseok ✉ addressed to the choi estate, dated february 19th of the year 1870.

dearest jinseok,

i hope this letter finds you well, wrapped in the warmth of memories as i find myself tonight. it's been quite some time since we last crossed paths, and yet, the echo of our shared moments seems to linger in the air around me.

our recent encounter brought a flood of emotions rushing back, like a gentle tide carrying fragments of our past to shore. it was unexpected, but oh, how it stirred the embers of nostalgia within me. do you remember, jinseok, the way we used to laugh until tears streamed down our cheeks, the way we danced under the stars as if time itself had paused just for us?

in the quiet moments of solitude, i find myself retracing the steps of our journey together—the highs and lows, the laughter and tears. and amidst it all, one truth remai̶n̶s̶ ̶u̶n̶c̶h̶a̶n̶g̶e̶d̶:̶ ̶m̶y̶ ̶l̶o̶v̶e̶ ̶f̶o̶r̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶e̶n̶d̶u̶r̶e̶s̶,̶ ̶s̶t̶e̶a̶d̶f̶a̶s̶t̶ ̶a̶n̶d̶ ̶u̶n̶w̶a̶v̶e̶r̶i̶n̶g̶.̶

i wonder, as i sit here with pen in hand, if you ever find yourself reminiscing about us. do you ever gaze at the night sky and see the constellations that once bore witness to our love? or do you, like me, find solace in the memories we crafted together, each one a precious gem sparkling in the tapestry of our shared history?

but amidst the sweetness of nostalgia, there lingers a question that weighs heavy on my̶ ̶h̶e̶a̶r̶t̶:̶ ̶i̶s̶ ̶i̶t̶ ̶t̶o̶o̶ ̶l̶a̶t̶e̶ ̶f̶o̶r̶ ̶u̶s̶,̶ ̶j̶i̶n̶s̶e̶o̶k̶?̶ ̶w̶o̶u̶l̶d̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶e̶v̶e̶r̶ ̶c̶o̶n̶s̶i̶d̶e̶r̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶p̶o̶s̶s̶i̶b̶i̶l̶i̶t̶y̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶u̶s̶ ̶r̶e̶d̶i̶s̶c̶o̶v̶e̶r̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶w̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶w̶e̶ ̶o̶n̶c̶e̶ ̶h̶a̶d̶,̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶r̶e̶i̶g̶n̶i̶t̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶f̶l̶a̶m̶e̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶o̶n̶c̶e̶ ̶b̶u̶r̶n̶e̶d̶ ̶s̶o̶ ̶b̶r̶i̶g̶h̶t̶l̶y̶ ̶b̶e̶t̶w̶e̶e̶n̶ ̶u̶s̶?̶ ̶o̶r̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶w̶e̶ ̶d̶e̶s̶t̶i̶n̶e̶d̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶r̶e̶m̶a̶i̶n̶ ̶m̶e̶r̶e̶ ̶e̶c̶h̶o̶e̶s̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶a̶ ̶l̶o̶v̶e̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶o̶n̶c̶e̶ ̶w̶a̶s̶?̶

̶i̶ ̶d̶o̶ ̶n̶o̶t̶ ̶a̶s̶k̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶s̶e̶ ̶q̶u̶e̶s̶t̶i̶o̶n̶s̶ ̶l̶i̶g̶h̶t̶l̶y̶,̶ ̶n̶o̶r̶ ̶d̶o̶ ̶i̶ ̶e̶x̶p̶e̶c̶t̶ ̶e̶a̶s̶y̶ ̶a̶n̶s̶w̶e̶r̶s̶.̶ ̶i̶ ̶o̶n̶l̶y̶ ̶a̶s̶k̶ ̶b̶e̶c̶a̶u̶s̶e̶ ̶m̶y̶ ̶h̶e̶a̶r̶t̶ ̶y̶e̶a̶r̶n̶s̶ ̶f̶o̶r̶ ̶c̶l̶a̶r̶i̶t̶y̶ ̶a̶m̶i̶d̶s̶t̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶u̶n̶c̶e̶r̶t̶a̶i̶n̶t̶y̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶s̶u̶r̶r̶o̶u̶n̶d̶s̶ ̶u̶s̶. and though the future may be uncertain, one thing remains true: the love i hold for you, jinseok, knows no bounds. i hate myself for hurting you. if i could switch places with you, if only you could have turned me down and i could have bared the pain for you, i would in a heartbeat. i will forever be sorry, and will forever work for your forgiveness. forgiveness that i will never deserve.

as i seal this letter with a whisper of hope, know that you will forever hold a place in my heart, regardless of where our paths may lead us. and should you ever find yourself longing for the warmth of familiar arms, know that mine are always open to welcome you home.

with love always,
sunyoung

@✿ go yeonhwa (née ryu) ✉ addressed to the go estate, dated february 19th of the year 1870.

my dearest hwa,

i hope this letter finds you well amidst the duties and responsibilities that accompany your new role as the lady of the house. please do not apologize for the delay in your response; i completely understand the demands that come with managing a household, and your efforts are truly commendable. what is it like? a marriage, i mean - is it everything that the two of us grew up dreaming of?

your words brought immense joy to my heart, and i am touched by your gratitude for the small gestures i extended to you and your family. knowing that the lotus blossoms adorned your vanity and the fruits were enjoyed by your husband's family brings me happiness. i'm especially glad that the portrait found a place of honor in your annex.

your generosity in forgiving me for the events of our last meeting overwhelms me. i am deeply grateful for your understanding and your insistence on not burdening yourself with unnecessary guilt. your compassion speaks volumes about the kind of person you are, and i am blessed to have you as a friend.

thank you for the early birthday wishes! indeed, time seems to fly by swiftly. your pride in me means more than i could ever express.

eunha's mention of my busy schedule in incheon is accurate, but your reminder to prioritize self-care amidst my responsibilities is timely. your wisdom is always appreciated, and i promise that i did take time to prioritize myself. although, i did fall ill once or twice. i am happy to let you know that i have returned to hanseong, certainly we must find time to catch up once more? i am eager to do so.

thank you once again for your warm wishes and your friendship. may this new year bring you abundant blessings and joy as well.

with love and gratitude,
joonie

p.s. your first attempt at ceramic art is truly remarkable! the white porcelain vase adorned with stars and constellations is a beautiful testament to your creativity. who would have thought that you would have been a natural? i will cherish it dearly.

[post deleted by owner]

@✿ jang ilseong — addressed to House of the Cardinal Bird, Jang Estate, for Jang Ilseong.
dated november 17th, 1869

Dear Ilseong,

I would like to think that a Duke such as yourself would have more sense than to approach me at the wedding. You know... you have some nerve bringing up the past like that. You have no right bringing up my deceased fiancée in such a place when you know well that you were the one who ran away when there was the mention of being engaged.

It seems a little silly, does it not? You would think that after so many years one would learn to move on and not be so ̶h̶u̶r̶t̶. a̶n̶g̶r̶y̶. bothered by something that should not even matter. I was doing well, before I seen you. The memories of what was shared between us that have been forgotten, came hurdling towards me when you approached me at the wedding. . . and all you could say was ' sorry for your loss. ' Do not make me laugh, Duke Jang.

I could not allow myself to say these words to you at the wedding as this was neither the time nor place for such confrontation and though I may think rash sometimes, I would like to think myself better than that. You, Duke Jang, were the one who left. Do you know what that's like? I very much tried my best to get out of that engagement, but it was against my will. ̶I̶ ̶w̶a̶s̶ ̶w̶i̶l̶l̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶r̶i̶s̶k̶ ̶a̶n̶y̶t̶h̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶f̶o̶r̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶.̶ You never gave me any opportunity to explain anything. You just took the news and ran at the first sign of trouble. Why? ̶W̶a̶s̶ ̶I̶ ̶n̶o̶t̶ ̶g̶o̶o̶d̶ ̶e̶n̶o̶u̶g̶h̶?̶

I never should have allowed myself to get entangled with a man such as yourself.

I would like to think I deserve some explanation as to ̶w̶h̶y̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ w̶e̶r̶e̶ ̶s̶u̶c̶h̶ ̶a̶ ̶c̶o̶w̶a̶r̶d̶ why you betrayed me?

̶I̶ ̶l̶o̶v̶e̶d̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶. You might be a Duke, but you are just a man with a title, nothing more.

Yoo Hyunsik.

@❀ choi jinseok 《 addressed to the House of the Cloudy Mountain, one Choi Jinseok, dated november 29th, 1869 》

Dear Jinseok,

It makes me happy to know that you've realized these things about yourself. It truly does bring my heart some peace. But, in my spare time, or whenever it is quiet as I work on something, my thoughts wander. Wander back to what you've said previously - about those who may not be worthy of love. Despite my best efforts, there are times I wonder if perhaps there is something wrong with myself. Am I too open, too kind for my own good? Am I not enough for some people? I've always believed that by living my life honestly and being my truest self, I would be guided down the right path. But what if those traits are undesirable? I don't have the beauty and grace of many other women nor do I have the cunning or allure of others.

In a few months, I will be another year closer to 30 and yet, I've only had one serious romantic relationship. Women that are unmarried are less and less desirable as they age. It's these thoughts that haunt me like a shadow I cannot shake. And yet, I still try. Because what else can I do? I̶ ̶c̶a̶n̶ ̶a̶t̶ ̶l̶e̶a̶s̶t̶ ̶d̶i̶e̶ ̶k̶n̶o̶w̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶I̶ ̶l̶i̶v̶e̶d̶ ̶m̶y̶ ̶l̶i̶f̶e̶ ̶u̶n̶w̶a̶v̶e̶r̶i̶n̶g̶l̶y̶.̶ ̶

Pardon me for my rambling and sounding so sorrowful. I do appreciate our conversations, I find them insightful and a good exercise.

Jinseok, everyone is deserving of kindness. Because everyone is human and all humans endure suffering, in some way or another. I believe you will become the man you wish to be, just having the desire to change is the first step in your metamorphosis. We all have flaws, dark sides to ourselves, but that does not make us any less deserving. So do not be harsh on yourself.

And my father calls me stubborn too. You're in good company.

Sincerely,
Cho Miyoung
House of the Ebony Ram

@❁ hong gureum [h] — addresses to the hong residence, for hong gureum

dearest gureum,

i have awoken after what feels like an eternity. i hope you are well? no one has really told me about what is going on outside, probably worried for my health but i trust you, my dear friend to be honest with me. please believe me when i say i’m well and out of any danger.

your friend,
jin onhui

[ the letter is sent in a pink ramie envelope, embroidered with the mythical haetae in silver thread ]

@❀ jeon yunhee addressed to jeon manor, house of the white heron, for jeon yunhee.
⸺

dearest yun-eonnie,

i hope this missive finds you in great health and i extend my gratitude to you for the bouquet—you truly did not have to! thank you for the flowers, regardless. it has found a home in a glass vase at the clinic, soothing the patients with it fragrance and beauty. i, too, am looking forward to when we could see each other again. i am always thinking of you and your well being. i do hope i do not hear news of you nor see you lying down with an illness—even for a mere cold!

rest assured, eonnie, the man who now owns my heart is a kind man; someone who puts this humble self first before himself. a man with laughter i'd never get tired of and eyes with passion that draws me in stronger than gravity. lord kim hyunjun (dearest me, i turn bashful just writing his name) has been nothing but pleasant to me ever since our first meeting. and i promise these words are true, not merely an attempt to paint him in a good light. it is i, on the other hand, that has been causing him distress. . .hence, if anything, you should give me an earful.

before i turn into an utter mess and ramble more of lord kim. . .i'll end this missive with curiousity about the matters of your own heart: what about you, eonnie? is there a man that you fancy?

please, do relay my regards to orabeoni and eonnideuls for me. i always find myself missing our childhood days. i would love to arrange a meeting for the two of us, soon! perhaps then, we can exhange far more detailed updates of our lives. until then, take care, eonnie.

always,
hyangie

@✿ seol minhwan { delivered to the house of tigers, address to Lord Seol Minhwan}

November 14th, 1869.

dearest hwan-ah,

your response to my previous missive brought a great smile to my face. i’m afraid things have been rather hectic as of recent. It wasn’t able to write to you sooner than I would have liked too. It brought me great delight to see you at Yeonhwa eonnie’s wedding, however, I do apologise for not coming forward to greet you. I̶ ̶d̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶s̶a̶y̶,̶ ̶I̶ ̶w̶a̶s̶ ̶a̶ ̶m̶e̶s̶s̶. Nonetheless, your presence was something I missed and I was thankful, albeit busy, to catch a glimpse of you.

I do not doubt Duke Seol’s well intentions for your family, but times have changed and i’m sure there were better ways than such conservative methods. Perhaps, it’s something I might never understand as my father has the same traditionalist mindset.

seeing that you’ve accepted your betrothal with grace, do I expect to hear wedding bells soon? I̶ ̶w̶o̶u̶l̶d̶ ̶l̶o̶v̶e̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶b̶e̶ ̶t̶r̶u̶l̶y̶ happy fo̶r̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶,̶ ̶b̶u̶t̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶y̶ou tru̶l̶y ha̶pp̶y̶?̶ Do update me as soon as you can. i will have the horse and carriage prepared to bring me home. Surely, I can’t miss my best friend’s wedding, can I?

Unfortunately, C̶o̶w̶a̶r̶d̶i̶c̶e̶ ̶h̶a̶s̶ ̶e̶n̶a̶b̶l̶e̶d̶ ̶m̶e̶ ̶t̶o̶ fled ̶o̶n̶c̶e̶ ag̶a̶in i have left for gwangju once again. I had no intention of staying for longer now that Yeonhwa eonnie has gone on her honeymoon a̶n̶d̶ ̶I̶ ̶f̶e̶e̶l̶ ̶l̶o̶n̶e̶l̶i̶e̶r̶ ̶than I̶’̶d̶ ̶l̶i̶k̶e to̶.̶ and I have some unfinished business back in our own estate to settle before returning home.

do pray and tell me, minhwan, how is one supposed to feel when comes to the mind-boggling matter of the heart o̶r̶ ̶s̶e̶e̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶r̶ ̶b̶e̶l̶o̶v̶ed wit̶h̶ ̶s̶o̶meone ̶e̶l̶s̶e̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶t̶ you̶’̶v̶e̶ ̶gr̶own to̶ ̶s̶e̶e̶ ̶a̶s̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶r̶ ow̶n̶ ̶k̶i̶n? beca̶u̶s̶e̶ ̶I̶ ̶f̶e̶e̶l̶ ̶h̶u̶r̶t, ̶b̶u̶t conf̶r̶on̶t̶a̶t̶i̶o̶n̶ ̶i̶s̶ ̶n̶o̶t̶ what I d̶o̶ ̶b̶e̶s̶t.̶ ̶S̶h̶o̶u̶l̶d̶ ̶I̶ ̶c̶o̶nfront̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶m̶ ̶both̶,̶ ̶o̶r̶ ̶s̶h̶o̶u̶ld I be ̶a̶ ̶g̶r̶a̶c̶i̶o̶u̶s ̶l̶a̶d̶y̶ ̶a̶nd let̶ ̶it g̶o̶?̶ unfortunately, despite the fairytale romance everyone seems to think i’m involved in, I find difficulty in navigating through it these days.

The doors of our estate will always welcome you should you need a moment of respite, a quiet time, perhaps some escape to spend time with your best friend, for old times sake. Until then, I bid you a quick adieu.

with much fondness,
Ryu Aera.

{ together with the letter was a folded piece of parchment paper with the tteokgalbi recipe minhwan had requested for. }

@✿ jin jaeyong {delivered to the jin estate, addressed to lord jin jaeyong }

Dearest m̶y̶ ̶l̶o̶v̶e̶ Jaeyong,

Happy birthday, yong-ah!

It feels like it was only yesterday that we were in our teens, enjoying the cool breeze of your estate, eating yakgwas together and watching the sunset. Unbelievable how much time have passed since then. But another year older would mean another year wiser, right?

I pray for your utmost well-being always.

Always remember to take care of yourself, remember to eat and rest. I know you never get enough of that. But health is always priority. I apologise for not being able to spend this day with you t̶h̶e̶ ̶s̶h̶o̶p̶ ̶i̶s̶ ̶s̶t̶r̶u̶g̶g̶l̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶d̶u̶e̶ ̶t̶o̶ the on-go̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶f̶a̶m̶i̶n̶e̶.̶ as work has been busy. But I promise to visit you soon.

Please accept my humble birthday gifts. while they are might incomparable to the many other things that you’ll be receiving this special day. I still do hope that you like it I̶'̶v̶e̶ ̶g̶i̶v̶e̶n̶ ̶m̶u̶c̶h̶ ̶t̶h̶o̶u̶gh̶t̶ ̶i̶n̶t̶o̶ ̶i̶t̶.̶

i̶ ̶m̶i̶s̶s you̶ ̶d̶ear̶ly̶,̶ ̶a̶s̶ ̶a̶l̶w̶a̶y̶s̶.̶

yours̶
Always here for you,
Gureum.

{ along with the letter was neatly handmade tassel in black (meant to be attached to the hilt of the sword) place nicely in an exquisite box, two bars of hand made soap bars in scents that jaeyong liked wrapped neatly in oil free paper and two lavender scent pouches. A one tier bamboo box filled with various cookies: walnut, almond, green bean. }

@❃ choi saemi { delivered to the go estate, addressed to lady choi saemi }

January 22, 1870

Dearest Saemi,
Your missive has brought a wide smile to my face. I, too, have to apologise for the absence of my presence at my own establishment, I do, however, trust that it’s well taken care of and you shouldn’t have to worry about going back to work immediately. Your health is priority and should be prioritized above everything else.

I’ve heard news of your upcoming union with Lord Go. Forgive me for not writing to you earlier. But I believe congratulations are much needed. I’m glad you’ve found someone that will love and cherish you. Likewise, I only pray for you to have the utmost best.

I fear that my marriage with Duke Cha is no such fairytale to begin with, after all, every household has their own problems, however, it’s not to say that matrimonial life is not enjoyable. Duke cha has been nothing but understanding despite what the papers might say. Whilst it was bumpy at the beginning, everything worked out at the end.


I am not particularly good with advices, however, do not allow gossips and bad-mouthing deter you from anything, do not allow it to hurt you, faze you even, for they’re just words of mere jealousy. I believe Lord Go will protect you, nonetheless.

My morning sickness have subsided a fair bit now that I’ve gone past a little more than 20 weeks. It still comes and goes from time to time. Unfortunately, I’ve found out that there’s no full proof method for curbing it. But my lady in waiting would brew me some ginger tea to help ease it whenever it gets bad. a̶r̶e̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶p̶e̶r̶h̶a̶p̶s̶ ̶p̶r̶e̶g̶nant? shoul̶d̶ ̶i̶ ̶b̶e̶ ̶w̶o̶r̶r̶i̶e̶d̶? have you not been feeling well, saemi-ah? Do update me.

Worry not about being at 죽!죽!죽!, our friendship extends more than just co-workers at an establishment as you’re a dear friend to me. Perhaps we should have some tea together some day, when you feel better.

With much love,
Chae Seonhye.

{together with the letter was a few packages of specially concocted ginger tea that seonhye drinks for her morning sickness. }

@❁ hong gureum [h] [ delivered to the house of white lotus, addressed to hong gureum ; dated august 23rd 1865 ]

to my prettiest little cloud,

i must admit, my dear, that i find it difficult not to feel guilt for feeling this way. after all, i have left you behind to chase for a love i've longed for since childhood. it had been my younger self's dream once, to run into the sunset in the arms of my beloved. i never expected it to come to life. and while i know that you are genuinely happy for me, i still cannot help but feel guilty. i know that i have left you during a time where you must need me more than not.

i am truly sorry. but at the same time, i am grateful. sister, have you ever considered that you might spoil me a little too much?

i do hope that i'll get to show my baby to mother soon. pregnancy is never easy, and there are still so many times where i find myself asking questions that i know she will have the answer to. i miss her. i miss you. i miss yeoreum. but i am happy here, gureum-ah. i am so happy that sometimes i feel like i am in a dream. and if i am? i wish i would not wake up from it.

although... sometimes i do fear that yeoreum may end up looking older than us with how many times she's frowned at our antics. do not tell her i said that. but try to make our youngest smile, will you? i will try to send gifts soon.

i will keep that in mind. for now, my appetite really mostly craves sweets. my sweet tooth must have been amplified this time around. i remember with my last pregnancy, it had been difficult to satisfy what i'd wanted to eat. i do miss mother's cooking sometimes, but i fear that if you send some, it will be rotten by the time it gets here. do you think i'll be able to recreate it myself?

i will always be praying for you as well, my dearest sister, and also for mother and our youngest.

your loving sister,
areum.

@✿ geum eunbyeol [h] [ Addressed to the Geum estate in Seongnam for Marchioness Geum Eunbyeol of the house of Amaranth. The letter is contained inside a silver envelope with sealed with the wax seal of the House of the Shining Moon.]

[January 8th, 1870]

To the only star that matters,

My love…my heart. Why ever would you send me such a gift? By the moment you receive this message, You would hopefully be in my arms, enjoying the warmth from the fireplace in your estate in Seongnam as you read this missive making various faces as you react to my amazing hand writing.

For what man could resist such a call to action? Receiving your last missive and not being able to act on it right away pained me.

However, you know how much work has to be done in the capitol. Thankfully, duke Moon afforded me a leave as soon as the Royal Assembly concluded. As you already would have known—for I will have undoubtedly boasted about it, I would have ridden horseback through snow in order to see you sooner.

Braving a snowstorm and the elements is nothing in comparison to the chill that has settled within my heart while you were away. You have made me such a weak man. And for that you shall pay dearly. Look at what you have done and take responsibility.

I know I promised to make snow angels with you…but perhaps we can also make something else.. ̶s̶o̶m̶e̶o̶n̶e̶

I jest. I can already see you rolling your eyes reading this missive. Make sure you do not hit me when I’m beside you. Fix that foul habit of yours. ̶I̶ ̶d̶o̶ ̶n̶o̶t̶ ̶w̶a̶n̶t̶ ̶o̶u̶r̶ ̶f̶u̶t̶u̶r̶e̶ ̶c̶h̶i̶l̶d̶r̶e̶n̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶i̶n̶h̶e̶r̶i̶t̶ ̶s̶u̶c̶h̶ ̶n̶a̶s̶t̶y̶ ̶t̶e̶m̶p̶e̶r̶a̶m̶e̶n̶t̶.

Though I must say, the nights are cold at this time of year, and your estate is empty. Perhaps we can warm each other up and you can show me how much you have improved from last time. Show me how much you missed me, and I shall repay you in kind.

All yours,
Moon Hyeongwon
文 House of the Shining Moon

@✿ ryu aera [h] [ Addressed to the Ryu Estate for Marchioness Ryu Aera of the house of the Willow Tree, the letter is inside a white envelope, sealed with the wax seal of the House of the Tiger.]

[October 25th, 1869]

Dearest Aera,
I’m glad that I continue to be a great source of entertainment to you these days, though I do still worry. Come home already, will you?
And Oh? You have known the duke for many years? How come you are only relaying me this information now. ̶t̶o̶ ̶w̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶e̶x̶t̶e̶n̶t̶ ̶d̶o̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶k̶n̶o̶w̶ ̶o̶f̶ ̶h̶i̶m̶?̶

I already feel stronger and the insecurities that once plagued me every time I find myself in his presence seem to lessen the more I interact with him. Although I am still waiting for an apology that might not come. If he is indeed as decent as you deem him to be, and I trust that you are a good character. For you and I are best friends after all, then I shall assume that one of these days he will approach me to apologize. Only then will I offer my own apologies. Other than that, I think we are getting along amicably in the office?

An interest? Don’t be too imaginative Aera. Perhaps it is your boredom leading you into conclusions such as this. We have only met once and officially talked just once as well. I do not think hearing insults be slung at you will make you see the one who insulted you—interesting. I know I shall be offended. But perhaps he is an odd man.

I will indeed tell you when the day arises. But if it shall come, then I will face him head on.
No one who has caused my tears has lived to recount the tale. ̶e̶x̶c̶e̶p̶t̶ ̶m̶a̶y̶b̶e̶ ̶o̶n̶e̶ ̶p̶e̶r̶s̶o̶n̶.̶ ̶B̶u̶t̶ ̶w̶e̶ ̶s̶h̶a̶l̶l̶ ̶n̶o̶t̶ ̶t̶a̶l̶k̶ ̶a̶b̶o̶u̶t̶ ̶h̶i̶m̶.̶ ̶

Heartache? What ever for. Oh dearest Aera. It pains me that you are in such a plight because of a man. But I also know that this man is the only one capable of soothing the ache that he has caused you. Therefore, I hope and pray that he comes soon so he can whisk you away back to Hanseong. Back to us.

I am excited to attend your sister’s wedding. I love weddings! I better see you there Ryu Aera and spare me no details about how Marquess Song made it up to you.

I am missing you too, come home soon.

Your best friend,
Seol Riah
薛 House of the Tiger

@❃ kwon nabi ✉ addressed to Madame Kwon Nabi : House of the Rising Serpent : Hanbamman : dated late april, 1869

　　✏ My dearest star,

　I apologize for my late response. Sook has been busy as of late, and I feel I rarely get time to myself where I do not want to spend it in the presence of a certain lord. He is so much and more, I find it hard to put down in writing. It is funny, in a sense. When I am with him I feel more inspired than ever. My words weave themselves into beautiful poems from just a single glance, and yet I can not find words that seem quite fitting for describing the awe I feel by his side.

　As the weeks pass by from the publication of the papers, I feel myself less bothered by the idle chatter of the Ton, no matter how incessant it can become. You are right, sister. They are just mere words of those with too much idle time, and as soon as they see me not reacting they will certainly find another topic to move onto. It is the ever continuing cycle of our city.

　He has assured me of his promise several times over, each time looking more convinced in his affirmations than the time before. I know the path forwards will be difficult, yet I hold out in the hopes of the future to come. Though I feel safe with him, I do not let my mind stray too long, however. It is important that I stay grounded even amidst my reverie.

　What you share is worrisome, but holds true to my dear Yejun's own statements. I fear more of it might be correct than either of us would want to think. But I shall not let myself scare so easily. I have faced horrors far worse than a petty lord.

　If ever they were to do anything to me, know I will not fear retaliating. They may think us lesser, but we hold a sway many of them do not. I will not bow my head so easily for anyone.

　　Anyone but you that is. Know that no matter what happens in the future, I will forever consider you my dear sister.

　　　운

@❁ byun haeryeong [h] ✉ addressed to the byun residence in yangju. dated january 15th of the year 1870.

　　✏ My dearest Haeryeong,

　　I must offer my sincerest apologies for the delay in my response. Urgent familial matters demanded my attention in the time since we last exchanged correspondence, leaving me with little time to attend to other affairs. Thus, it is with regret that I could not partake in the gala that your family hosted. I heard whispers of its grandeur and success, and I am immensely proud to see you shine as a gracious and charming hostess.

　　However, how is it that when I am free, you are busy, and when I am in Hanseong, you are in Yangju? Alas, it seems our paths are destined to diverge even as we seek to connect. Although our schedules did not align this time, I treasure each word from you even more, knowing the efforts that go into each correspondence.

　　Your sentiments regarding your family resonate deeply with me. As long as both you and Lord Ahn find happiness in each other’s company, no explanation is owed to anyone else. You have pledged your love and commitment under the celestial heavens, and your dedication to each other and your children is evident. Pay no heed to the idle chatter of naysayers for their words hold no weight in the face of your genuine love and devotion. It is often who have the most things to say that truly matter the least. They simply have too much time on their hands.

　　Regarding Jiyeon and Jieun, rest assured that I am more than capable of tending to their needs, even if they inherit a trace of your so-called stubbornness. If I could care for you with all your spirited determination, I am confident in my ability to do the same for your daughters. If anything, it would be my pleasure to guide and nurture them, just as I did with you.

　　I am saddened to hear of your mother’s ailing health, but I am certain that the presence of you and her beloved grandchildren will serve as a balm to her weary soul. You have my prayers for her swift and full recovery, and should you require any assistance during this time, do not hesitate to reach out to me.

　　Upon your return to Hanseong, let us make time for a quiet chat over a cup of tea.

　　　　蔡恩婷 Chae Eunjeong

　　P.S. I think, given the sender’s address of this letter and the name with which I am signing off, you may have already put two and two together. However, I feel as if it is only right that I tell this to you myself, as you are like a daughter to me. I have reconciled with my ex-husband, thus I have returned to my place by his side as his wife and the duchess to his estate. It is quite a long story and best shared in person, so I will save it for when we meet face-to-face.

@❁ byun sangwook ✉ addressed to the yoon residence in hanseong. dated december 23rd of the year 1869.

　　✏ my dear friend,

　　i extend my sincerest apologies for the delay in my response. the aftermath of our wedding brought forth an influx of parcels and correspondence, which i found myself unable to attend to before we left for our honeymoon. now, having started to settle into my new role as lady of the household, i finally find a moment of respite to attend to the matters that have been left neglected.

　　i shall refrain from dignifying your jest concerning procreating endeavors with a response, though i appreciate the sentiment behind your gift. your compilation of poems shall be a cherished addition to our humble library, offering solace and inspiration in quiet moments. i eagerly anticipate delving into the depths of your verses and i assure you that i shall share them with my husband if i find any particularly intriguing.

　　as the new year dawns upon us, i fervently hope to receive news of joy and prosperity from you and haewon. may your days be filled with blessings and contentment, dear friend.

　　with gratitude,
　　　　高妍花 go yeonhwa

@❃ song jinye ✉ addressed to the song estate in hanseong. dated mid-march of the year 1869.

　　✏ My dearest Jinye,

　　I can hardly contain my joy upon reading your delightful news! I had to re-read your letter multiple times to check if my eyes were deceiving me, and oh, the loud squeal I let out when I confirmed that your penned words were indeed true! My goodness, I cannot express how thrilled I am to hear of your engagement and impending nuptials!

　　Congratulations, my dear friend, on finding such profound happiness and fulfillment with Mister Im! I am infinitely grateful to witness how this man has brought warmth to you after what seemed like an eternal winter. It warms my soul to know that you have found solace and companionship with a man who cherishes you as you deserve to be cherished. Moreover, to hear that your parents received this news with acceptance and perhaps even joy is a testament to the wonderful person you are and the love that surrounds you. I have no doubt that they, like me, are overjoyed to see you blossom and thrive once more.

　　Indeed, planning a wedding is a joyous occasion, and I am certain that yours will be a celebration to remember! Remember that there is no need to rush into planning your wedding unless you wish for it. Take your time, savor each moment, and revel in the joy of this special time. It is a once-in-a-lifetime event after all, so everything must be perfect for you! I am sure your family would agree. Are you excited to plan it? Oh, I certainly love weddings! Should you need any assistance, I would be more than happy to offer my two cents to any inquiries you have.

　　As for your astute observation regarding the true intentions behind my departure, you are absolutely correct (as always). Duke Chae has already come to seek me once, and I could not even turn him away then . . . how would I be able to remain resolute in my decision if it were to happen again? He is a confusing man, still referring to me as his wife, and I am ashamed to admit that hearing that endearment fall from his lips was almost enough to bring me to my knees. It was a difficult decision to leave, but I knew that I could not risk being drawn back into a situation that could only bring further heartache.

　　At least, here in Namhae, it is a peaceful retreat far removed from the chaos of the capital. News arrives here too slowly for most to care, and it is too far for Duke Chae to be seeking me out. In the end, perhaps this friend of yours is no better than a coward . . . well, no matter.

　　Amidst the tranquil beauty of the seaside, I find solace and peace in the embrace of my grandparents’ memory. The gentle rhythm of the waves serves as a soothing balm to my soul, and the quiet serenity of this place offers respite from the tumult of the world beyond. I do not wish to leave, so I do not think I will be coming back to Hanseong anytime soon. I have even taken up a position as an etiquette teacher at the local boarding school for young ladies. I am doing quite well here, so do not worry about me.

　　While I deeply regret my inability to meet you beneath the cherry blossoms this year, please know that I am committed to fulfilling that promise next year, once the chaos has subsided. Until then, know that you are always welcome to visit me here in Namhae. My arms are always open to welcome you, should you ever wish to escape the pressures of society for a while.

　　With all my love,
　　　　徐恩婷 Seo Eunjeong
　　　　House of the Heliotrope

@✿ seol minhwan [ Addressed to Count Seol Minhwan, House of the Tiger ]

[March 14th, 1865]

Minhwan Orabeoni,

It is good to know that you sound so content. What you describe indeed feels like a far cry from Gangneung and Hanseong. I should wish to experience such a slow idyllic life one day. Though I am not sure if such a life is for me. As I am too accustomed to the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
I have often wondered what our lives could have been if grandfather was not the way that he is. Perhaps you would not have to sneak around and hide your love, and perhaps I would have been married by now. If I was not the way that I am. ̶I̶f̶ ̶I̶ ̶w̶a̶s̶ ̶n̶o̶t̶ ̶s̶o̶ ̶h̶a̶r̶d̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶l̶o̶v̶e̶.̶

Maybe you would not have to work for the government. I know you only took up a government post to further grandfather’s ambitions as have I. Though I think I would still be working for the government as it is something that I have enjoyed and have always been curious about. Though the hours are long.

But I truly believe that such expectations were set to us by grandfather because he recognizes our potential and he knows that we can definitely do better. Although I know that you see her as your world and you would not dare think that you can do better than her. And seeing you love like that gives me hope. T̶h̶a̶t̶ ̶m̶a̶y̶b̶e̶ ̶s̶o̶m̶e̶d̶a̶y̶,̶ ̶I̶ ̶c̶a̶n̶ ̶e̶x̶p̶e̶r̶i̶e̶n̶c̶e̶ ̶a̶ ̶g̶r̶e̶a̶t̶ ̶l̶o̶v̶e̶ ̶t̶o̶o̶.̶ ̶

I have been alright. The best that I can be I suppose? Home is not the same without you. Unfortunately, grandfather scrutinizes every single thing that I do because he has no one else to criticize. This, I shall gladly shoulder for you, dear brother.
Another social season is upon us so the trips to the modiste have been frequent although I am grateful that mother continues to accompany me despite this being my fourth season out. Do you think I will be able to find a match suitable enough for grandfather? No one dares court me now, especially after I turned most of them down last year. Why do these men have to be so…incompetent? Or perhaps the men in our family have just set the bar too high?

Your worries are not unwarranted. For whenever grandfather has the chance, he would always sneak in questions like do I know what you are truly doing besides from working and I would always tell him the same excuse that you do not dare write to me for you are far too busy with your far too important work. Though I fear that my excuses will not suffice soon enough. Best return to show your face occasionally to throw off suspicion.

Orabeoni, you know that I will always be here for you. As you have been for me. Though realistically, you are not supposed to be seeing Areum anymore and I will be lying if I tell you that I support your union fully. However, I do know that she makes you happy and happiness is a fleeting thing for the members of our household so I shall do everything that I can on my end to make sure that you can safeguard your happiness.

Do not worry about me! If grandfather did something right, is to raise me to become resilient. This, I can wield against him at times. I’ll make sure to take care of myself and you do the same. And if I must confess, I would love to one day experience these things—love and happiness. Although it might not be in the cards for me so for now, I shall be taking a leisurely stroll around Hanseong and grandfather would have to unfortunately pay for the tab I am going to rack up in Hanbamman.

[ps. I’m truly glad that you’re happy once again.]

With much love,
Riah