⁝ palace gardens.

@❁ kwon bora in the ambiance of the gala, there was something that assured kihyun that he was doing the right thing. it was as though the very air whispered to him, affirming his actions. amidst the grandiose event, kihyun was suddenly certain that he was there to ensure bora's safety. with the unconscious lady in his arms, he walked out of the opulent halls of the ballroom out into the garden; not caring whose eyes were following them out there.

as he tenderly set her on the polished wooden bench, his gaze became ensnared by her promptly graceful form, a fleeting smile finding its way onto his lips. there was a serenity in the air as he watched the rise and fall of her chest, each breath a gentle reminder of how deeply she was falling into a deep slumber. in the garden's hushed stillness, cha kihyun found himself captivated by the shadow and light of her features, a tranquil peace and warmth following the subtle caress of her fingers on his skin as she held him back from leaving.

it was funny to think about how aggravated he was to be forced into participation in this gala, and yet, with bora's appearance, the night seemed to have changed into a completely different theme.

in an ironic twist of fate, kihyun's initial reluctance to partake in such useless festivities seemed to have faded into the background as he realized that upon bora's arrival, the evening underwent a total shift into an entirely new narrative. the once rather annoying event became some kind of significant moment to enjoy such peace and quiet with kwon bora.

rather unexpected, he thought to himself as a chuckle escaped his lips.

as kihyun's gaze alighted from bora's features, his eyes followed the delicate leaf that delicately descended to rest upon bora's cheek, on the hair that was covering her features lightly. with eyes and lips laden with a significant weight of admiration. "it seems that even nature itself is drawn to you," he whispered in the stillness of the moment.

with a gentle reach, he closed the distance between them as he hovered over her to take the leaf with his fingers, and his face coming into close proximity with hers.

@✿ cha kihyun in kihyun's arms, bora was carried out from the ballroom into the palace gardens, away from prying eyes. she slept peacefully, her head resting against kihyun's shoulder as he moved slowly to not disturb what seemed to be a pleasant dream. in typical bora fashion, she failed to smile even in her slumber, but the space between her eyebrows was uncharacteristically relaxed.

bora dreamt of nothingness, and it was the most pleasant dream she had had in years. to be absolved of the pressure that weighed on her shoulders, and to not be critical of herself and others for once—it was freeing. was it because she had fallen asleep in kihyun's presence? pieces of her old self seemed to seep out when he was around.

unlike the ballroom, the gardens were quieter, with the only source of sound coming from the crickets that hid in the flower bushes and the distant hum of music from the gala. gingerly, kihyun set bora's body on a wooden bench by the fountain, and despite his gentleness, the motion of slipping his arms out from underneath her stirred her sleep.

unconsciously, she grabbed onto his hand as his arm tried to escape her, a small smile suddenly gracing her lips. bora held kihyun's hand as if it was made of porcelain, a stark contrast from her usual abrasiveness. in a soothing gesture, her thumb briefly grazed over the back of his palm before finally releasing him from her grasp. with a small groan, bora turned away from him, revealing a small green leaf stuck between the dark strands of hair on the side of her head that had rested on the bench.

@❀ kim byungjun With the rhythmic cadence of the music coming from within the palace, Jaekyung allowed his feet to simply move along with the ebb and flow of the melody, paying little heed to the formalities of the proper footwork he was taught. Jaekyung never liked dancing or opulent events like this. He had his focus settled on the male in his arms, guiding each of his movements with pure instincts. His hands, which were once around Byunjun’s shoulders, soon slipped to the familiar curvature of his waist, where they rested.

At Byunjun’s response, Jaekyung felt a myriad of emotions flow through him, both the good and the bad. Like a sponge, he was ready to absorb whatever pain, sadness, and anger the other was ready to throw his way. He deserved it, after all.

With another graceful twirl of Byunjun, Jaekyung drew him back into his arms once more, his figure fitting perfectly in his embrace. A stark reminder of the night they shared, the warmth of Byunjun’s hand provided a fleeting respite from the weight of guilt that hung heavy in the air. “There must have been some truth to the things you said that morning..” It’s Byunjun’s voice that pulls him away from his own thoughts once more; the statement leaves a pang of sadness that bubbles within him, and Jaekyung deems himself the biggest fool of the evening.

As Byunjun’s grip tightened around his hand, instead of pulling away, Jaekyung only brought Byunjun closer in this embrace. Releasing his hold on the older male’s hand, Jaekyung wrapped his arms around the other’s waist, closing the distance between them as he leaned their foreheads together. swaying their bodies left and right, he basked in the momentary bliss they both shared in quiet.

“You would probably think of it as another excuse. But I don’t blame you.” Jaekyung whispered, his voice barely above a breathless murmur. “You might think I do have regrets; you might never forgive me, and I can’t fault you for that either.” He continued, acknowledging the rift that had already torn them apart. “But I want you to know that... I don’t regret a single moment we shared—not the kisses, not the night we shared, or the warmth of your embrace. I need you to believe me.” Jaekyung pulled away to meet the other’s gaze, hoping to search for an answer, an emotion, forgiveness, or anything else.

@✿ jin jaekyung as they danced, byungjun’s expression remained stoic and serious, betraying none of the turmoil he felt inside. he listened intently to jaekyung’s words; his eyes fixed on his face as if searching for some sign of sincerity. the music swirled around them, but in that moment, all byungjun could hear was the sound of his own heartbeat, pounding in his ears. his heart sank as he watched jaekyung, the weight of their strained relationship heavy in the air between them. he couldn’t shake the hurt and confusion that had settled within him since that morning, the memory of his words and actions haunting him day and night.

when jaekyung took his hand and spoke, byungjun felt a mix of emotions swirl inside him – hurt, anger, and a deep longing for things to be as they once were between them. the apology hung in the air between them, and for a moment, there was silence. he could feel the weight of their broken friendship pressing down on him, threatening to crush him under its immense pressure. he wanted to forgive, to let go of the anger and hurt that consumed him, but it was easier said than done. part of him wanted to pull away, to reject the apology and the pain he had caused. but another part of him, a softer, more hopeful part, wanted to believe that they could mend things together. but, he knew himself all too well, and it took a long amount of time for him to forgive and never has he been known to forget (ironically). he wanted to believe his words, to trust that their friendship could be repaired, but the pain of betrayal lingered.

“I understand, jaekyung,” byungjun finally replied, his voice steady despite the storm of emotions raging inside him.

as they danced, byungjun tried to push aside his doubts and focus on the present moment. he felt jaekyung’s hand in his, warm and comforting, and for a moment, he allowed himself to relax. when he whispered an apology, byungjun’s heart – he wouldn’t admit - ached as the weight of their broken friendship came crashing back down on him. he wanted to forgive, to let go of the bitterness that had taken root in his heart, but he couldn’t forget how much the words spoken and actions taken had hurt him. “I want to believe you,” he whispered back, his voice barely above a murmur. his words were measured, deliberate, as if he was trying to protect himself from further pain: “but trust is not easily mended.” there needed to be time to heal, to understand why this happened between them. to make sense of why it happened in the first place.

as they continued to dance, byungjun’s gaze never wavered from jaekyung’s face. his mind was elsewhere, and despite his stoic façade, he couldn’t deny the hurt and anger that simmered beneath the surface. “there must have been some truth to the things you said that morning, regardless of whether you regret saying them now. and that’s what hurts the most. I want to forgive you, but I can’t ignore the fact that you meant those words in that moment.” his grip tightened slightly, betraying the anger and hurt he felt. he couldn’t help but wonder if he was capable of such forgiveness.

@✿ song jihoo “yes, i would love to, my lord.” aera whispered in a soft melodious sigh, a delicate chuckle following as she placed her hand upon his. It had never failed to baffle aera how jihoo could effortlessly manage coax a blush to blossom upon the apples of her cheeks despite being in his presence countless of times.

With jihoo’s arms now enfolding her in a tender embrace, cocooning her gently, it was as if aera walked into her safe haven, her sanctuary filled with warmth and reassurance that jihoo provided. While his body pressed flushed against her, aera wondered if jihoo could hear the loud thumping of her heart through the layer of fabrics between them.

When jihoo had proposed taking a leisure stroll through the palace gardens after her last dance, aera could not be more thankful for the offer. with a night of societal duties she went through, the prospects of having some private time with a beloved was a reprieve she welcomed. Aera had, to put it blatantly, enough socialising for the entire night, maybe an entire year if she had to exaggerate. And with the rumours of their courtship circulating within the ton and their arrival to gala hand-in-hand, they both knew escaping the prying eyes of the ton was not an option, after all, the potential union between the son of the prime minister and daughter of the left state councillor was surely intriguing.

“thank you.” aera murmured softly, her eyes lifting up to meet the warmth of her lover’s eyes. In the ethereal glow of the moonlight, jihoo’s soft feature bathed in soft luminescence, and for a brief moment, aera appreciated him quietly before returning a subtle playful smile “you know.. for whisking me away.” she continued softly as her arms found their place around jihoo’s neck, “the air was almost… just almost too stifling in there.. “ she confesses, “besides, there is no place i’d rather be but here, by your side, beneath the stars. ”

@✿ choi jiwoo saera's heart fluttered with uncertainty as jiwoo's hand gently traced her cheek, his words penetrating her defenses like arrows aimed at her vulnerable heart. was he serious? the thought gnawed at her, filling her with a sense of trepidation. the memories of her past, the scars left by betrayal and loss, resurfaced, casting a shadow over her budding feelings for jiwoo, even as his touch ignited a flicker of hope within her.

"my lord," she began, her voice trembling slightly, "can you truly see me for who i am? can you see beyond the facade of wealth and status, and recognize my true worth?" her hand instinctively reached out to grasp his, seeking reassurance in his touch. "i fear that what i have to offer is not worthy of your generosity."

his declaration of devotion stirred conflicting emotions within her, stirring a tempest of doubt and longing in her heart. could she trust him to fulfill his promises, to grant her the freedom she so desperately craved?

"my lord," she murmured, her gaze drifting downward as she wrestled with her inner turmoil, "i appreciate your intentions, but i cannot help but worry about the consequences of our union. the disparity in our stations, the scorn of society... it weighs heavily upon my conscience." her fingers absently toyed with the fabric of her hanbok, a nervous habit betraying her inner turmoil.

"and what about your family?" she continued, her voice barely above a whisper. "would they not scorn you for daring to love a lowly gisaeng? would their disdain not tarnish your illustrious reputation?" the fear of bringing shame upon him, of becoming a burden rather than a blessing, gnawed at her, threatening to unravel her resolve.

@❀ kim byungjun The air within the palace garden soon thickened with tension and jaekyung found himself suffocating beneath the weight of his own actions. the once gentle winter breeze that caressed his skin in a comforting embrace soon felt unbearable and icy. He found the need and the urge to flee the scene as soon as their eyes met— because he could never deny that he was a coward when it came to any matters of the heart — yet, his feet stood rooted to ground as if mocking him for his cowardice.

The guilt that jaekyung had felt toward byunjun consumed every fibre of his being despite days and even weeks after that very fateful morning, and it served as a relentless reminder to young male. And even as he marched towards the frontline of hanseong’s biggest battle, he was haunted by the image of his friend’s wounded expressions that morning. it was perhaps unintentional, jaekyung would argue with himself, but nonetheless, they were in such predicament, and every calculated step he took felt like he was threading on very thin ice, one wrong move, and they could both fall and all these because of him.

“byunjun hyung.” jaekyung exhaled the greeting a shaky breath, mustering a faint smile with whatever courage he had within him as the male approached him. was it hurt? anger? hatred? or a mix of all that was written all over his face? Perhaps he was just a idiot, but jaekyung couldn’t quite pinpoint it. Definitely, there was no doubt jaekyung had regretted his words, but byunjun was never — in that sense — a regret to him, in any possible way.

Jaekyung’s gaze fell to byunjun’s extended hand and without any reservations took hold of his into his own and held it with ease, while the other rested upon his shoulders. “i would love to..” jaekyung pauses, eyes trailing up byungjun’s durumagi and to his eyes. “.. share this dance with you, lord kim.” he continued whilst taking the first step of the dance, allowing the other to follow suit.

“I’m sorry.” Jaekyung whispered softly after a short period of silence. “for my actions and my words that morning.” his eyes had searched byunjun’s, in hope of getting any hint of his emotions. “i do not regret sharing a night of passion with you, hyung, but i do regret ruining the friendship between us” the young marquess whispered softly.

@✿ ryu aera In the serene ambiance of the palace gardens, the air was alive with the subtle fragrance of blooming flowers and the soothing rustle of leaves in the gentle night breeze. The moon casted a soft, silver glow upon the meticulously manicured pathways and ornate fountains, adding an ethereal touch to the surroundings. Underneath the canopy of stars, the garden seemed to come alive with a sense of enchantment, beckoning lovers to lose themselves in its tranquil embrace.

As the hour approached midnight, the gardens exuded a sense of mystical allure, with shadows dancing gracefully amidst the moonlit foliage. The distant melody of crickets and the occasional hoot of an owl provided a soothing soundtrack to the intimate scene unfolding beneath the starry sky.

With each step, the cool grass beneath their feet offered a welcome respite from the warmth of the gala hall. Having escaped the hustle and bustle of the main ballroom, Jihoo and his beloved found solace in each other's presence amidst the serene setting. Here, surrounded by the beauty of nature and with fewer prying eyes upon them, they could fully immerse themselves in the intimacy of the moment.

As they strolled along the moonlit pathway, Jihoo's heart swelled with adoration as he gazed upon Aera.
"I think the gardens look more breathtaking under the veil of night, but compared to their splendor, you outshine them all, my love," he whispered, his voice carrying a soft sincerity that echoed in the stillness of the night.

Gently taking her hand in his, Jihoo drew her closer with a soft touch, feeling the warmth of her presence radiating against his skin, a comforting embrace that spoke volumes of their deep connection. With a playful grin, he extended an invitation that was both tender and lighthearted.

"May I have this dance, my lady?"

@✿ choi jiwoo saera's heart fluttered at jiwoo's question, her mind racing with conflicting emotions. she flashed a hesitant smile before speaking, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "i'm like a little bird trapped inside a cage with almost no way out, jiwoo. it would cost you so much to free me, and i'm not worth it." she paused, her gaze dropping momentarily before meeting his again. "your money should be for your own sake, not for someone like me."

her fingers toyed nervously with the hem of her shirt as she continued, "my friends... they're nice to me. i don't know if i can just leave them." the thought of abandoning the only sense of belonging she had known was daunting, even if it meant escaping her current situation.

saera's expression clouded with worry as she glanced around, the weight of potential consequences pressing down on her. "i don't want to trouble you, jiwoo. what would people say if they found out you bought my freedom?" she shook her head slightly, her voice barely above a whisper. "i can handle hate, but not from you. you've always been there for me since we were kids, and i can't bear the thought of causing you any harm."

a half-hearted chuckle escaped her lips, though the underlying seriousness was unmistakable. "you should focus on yourself, jiwoo. i'll find a way to make it through, somehow by stay alive. " her attempt at levity masked the darker thoughts swirling in her mind, thoughts of uncertainty and fear that she couldn't shake.

@❁ eun seonwoo byungjun’s steps through the palace gardens mirrored the weight of his thoughts, each footfall echoing the heaviness in his heart. the memory of jaekyung’s fleeting presence at the ball burned like a searing brand in his mind. their previous encounter had been nothing more than a one-night stand, a moment of passion that now left a bitter taste in byungjun’s mouth.

he had allowed himself to swept away by the allure of his charm, drawn in by the promise of fleeting pleasure and escape from the burdens of reality. in the heat of the moment, their bodies had intertwined, but in the cold light of day, byungjun found himself with the harsh reality of the encounter. the memory of their brief tryst gnawed at him, a reminder of his own vulnerability and the hollowness of their connection. for jaekyung, it had been nothing more than a momentary lapse in judgement, a regrettable mistake that left byungjun feeling used and discarded.

as he wandered amidst the moonlit shadows, the gardens seemed to echo with the ghosts of their encounter, taunting him with reminders of his own foolishness. with each passing moment, his frustration grew, a simmering tempest threatening to boil over any moment. lost in his inner turmoil, byungjun rounded a corner with a furrowed brow, his thoughts consumed by the specter of the other’s regret. and then, in a twist of fate, he collided with another figure, sending him stumbling backward with a startled gasp.

caught off guard, byungjun’s initial reaction was one of irritation, his temper flaring like a match struck against tinder. yet, as he looked up to see the face of the person he had bumped into, a flicker of confusion crossed his features. this was not whom he’d expected – it was a stranger, a man he had never seen before. temporarily taken aback, byungjun’s irritation gave way to curiosity as he studied the unfamiliar face before him. “my apologies,” he murmured, his tone softened slightly. “I was lost in thought and didn’t see you there. are you hurt?” despite the lingering storm of emotions raging within him, there was a hint of genuine concern in his voice which was overlapping with the other’s, as he reached out to offer assistance to the stranger he had inadvertently collided with.

as he extended his hand to offer assistance, he noticed the stranger doing the same, their movements synchronized in an awkward dance of politeness. a soft chuckle escaped byungjun’s lips at the sight, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. “seems we both have a knack for talking at the same time,” he remarked with a wry smile, a glimmer of amusement dancing in his eyes. “but rest assured, I’m fine. just a minor collision.” despite the lingering traces of frustration lingering within him, there was a warmth in his tone as he reassured the stranger that he was unharmed.

@✿ jin jaekyung byungjun had been reveling in the enchanting atmosphere of the gala, immersed in the lively dance and the joyous celebrations that filled the palace halls. the vibrant festivities had momentarily eclipsed the shadows of the past, allowing him to lose himself in the rhythm of the music and the warmth of laughter. the night had been a respite, a welcome diversion from the haunting memories that had lingered in the corners of his mind.

midway through the bustling gala, seeking a brief reprieve, byungjun ventured into the moonlit gardens, enchanged by the ethereal glow of the night sky. the winter breeze whispered through the branches, carrying a sense of calm that momentarily soothed the lintering ache in his heart. it was in this idyllic moment that this gaze fell upon jaekyung, a familiar figure amidst the serenity. the initial joy and peace he had felt dissolved into a cocktail of conflicting emotions, as memories of their shared night before the war surged back. the garden, once a haven, now became the stage for an unforeseen confrontation with a past byungjun had tried to bury beneath the surface of the festivities.

as he spotted jaekyung, byungjun’s internal turmoil escalated into a simmering anger, fueled by the memories of that regretful morning. the weight of unspoken apologies and unanswered questions felt like chains, binding him to a past he wished to escape. jaekyung’s presence, seemingly suffocating in the moonlit garden, became an unwelcome reminder of the pain and betrayal that he felt.

as their gazes locked, byungjun’s anger flared, a fiery manifestation of the hurt he had harbored for months. the quite night became a battleground for suppressed emotions, and he couldn’t bear the weight of jaekyung’s unspoken guilt any longer. the tranquility of the garden had transformed into a stifling space, closing in on byungjun like a prison. driven by a surge of frustration, he took a step forward, his eyes reflecting a mix of anger and a desperate need for escape. the once serene garden now echoed with the tension between them.

byungjun, with a sardonic smirk, approached jaekyung amidst the moonlit garden, where the unresolved tension hung thick in the air. “well, fancy meeting you here,” he remarked, his tone dripping with sarcasm. despite the festive surroundings, his words carried the weight of their shared history. not one to shy away, byungjun extended a hand, the sarcasm still lingered in his gaze. “care for a dance?” he quipped, the question laced with both mockery and a subtle challenge, daring jaekyung to navigate the intricate steps of both the dance floor and their complicated past. his hand was placed between their bodies as the moonlight bore witness to the subtle war of words and emotions that unfolded in the seemingly serene garden.

“or, is that something that you would regret as well?”

@❀ kim byungjun It had been midway through the bustling gala when jaekyung decided to take a short breather — away from the clamorous festivities and the massive crowd of gala attendees. not foreign to the labyrinth walls of the palace, it didn’t take long for the young man to find himself wondering out and away from the main palace halls and into the palace garden just a short stone throw away, where he opted to seek refuge under the celestial canopy despite the winter breeze that would eventually greet him. Jaekyung had somewhat found comfort the tranquility that enveloped him.

With the clear night sky, the moon casted a slivery glow upon the palace grounds as he wandered further in. A short distance later, his eyes alighted upon a familiar figure, a once cherished friend, though he could not say the same for byungjun — at least not after that night of passion they shared just before the war that left a pang of regret in jaekyung’s heart.

As his gaze lingered on the back of his beloved friend, a myriad of questions had flooded the yangban’s head. ‘Did he go to war too?’ Jaekyung had been reminded about the scars that marred his back — one he traced with his own fingertips, ‘was he doing well? did he get hurt? how had he been?’ Yet, being the coward he was, opted to stay silent, leaving his mind with these unspoken questions.

jaekyung was ready to depart the scene, he was not going to interrupt byungjun’s tranquility, he would rather spare him than ruin his night with his very presence. Yet, coincidence always had a way of humouring people and just as he’s about to take a step back, jaekyung find himself under the weight of byungjun’s gaze on him. Almost immediately, a wave of remorse washes over him as he looks up to meet the other’s gaze, those very same set of eyes that reflected the hurt he caused him on that very morning.

@✿ jang deoksu Although the years have flown between them, in this moment, Jinye felt as if she had been transported to the days of when they were immature ten year olds. Despite what others may think, Deoksu was a cherished friend, a brother-figure in a sense, so when he extended his arm, she had no reservations to hook hers in his as he guided her through the pathway.

A small, friendly smile graced her lips as she listened to his story. She was not certain, but it felt as if his time away in Europe had been of few fond memories. It’s such a shame, she thought to herself. She remembered the day when he told her he was leaving for another country. Jinye, who had once dreamed of traveling the world, found herself begging the young boy to take her along. Oh, how childish they were back then that she thought she could fit in his carrier.

She patted the back of his hand with a small sigh. “It seems like you have matured Deokie, but of course, you’re still that same kid from years ago to me.” Jinye admired his matured features, realizing how both of them have certainly grown up and beneath the moon she consciously pulled away from him and sat down on the marble bench.

However, she wasn’t going to let him slide with his snarky comment about her betrothal either. “Hey, don’t you dare tell him about my embarrassing childhood stories. If you scare him away, I won’t forgive you.”

Indeed, her threat wasn’t baseless. Jinye had waited years to finally find the love of her life, and she wasn’t going to let Jang Deoksu ruin it for her. “Besides, I’m a proper lady now. I don’t climb trees anymore and I no longer run after Jihoo and you, so I’m no longer that little girl who was always begging the both of you to let me in on your imaginary adventures.”

Hearing that he had danced with someone, Jinye could only give a brief nod of her head, seemingly approving. “At least you’ve danced with someone, that’s a feat in itself, isn’t it?” She teased, “I hope you didn’t step on that poor girl’s foot. I hope you’ve left a good enough impression on her that she’d want to get to know you more. If not, then I fear you’ll still be wife searching until the social season.”

@❃ na soo It was painful, the overwhelming sense of ache that surged within him. All the years in which he had been in the presence of her, where she had been a silent companion and the words they shared had not been many, had always been a welcomed respite from the silence he had known all his life. However, this time it was different and very difficult to swallow.

Kiwoon can feel it; her guard and her distance, there was an invisible barrier that had not been there before. He took another step closer to her, but the discomfort in his chest deepened at the painful realization that the familiarity he had once found with her was fading away.

He was glad to hear that she had been well and that she had not been alone all this time. Was it wrong for him to pry into how she had been since their last meeting? He was the one who had pushed her away, hadn't he? He didn't have the right to know how she had been and she also had the right not to tell him. However, he was genuinely relieved to know she hadn't been alone, but it couldn't remove the regret that clung to him like a shadow. He had a selfish regret of how the loneliness that had once bound them together was now his to bear alone, a burden that felt heavier in the moonlit night.

"Myeong," he called her name again, this time in a light and soft voice. "I'm glad to hear you haven't been alone." The admission hung in the air, carrying the weight of the past and the strain of a friendship in a state of loss.

The moonlight cast shadows on her face, revealing the intricacies of emotions that played across her features. He searched her eyes for a glimpse of the person he once knew, for the Myeong who shared his lonely moments. But he could not find her.

"Myeong," he began again. "Have I... have I abandoned you?" The question hung in the air like a fragile thread as it awaited an answer that could leave scars and deepen the rift that had grown between them.

@❀ jeon dayeon Miro's attention briefly shifted to the young lady standing beside his superior, and he gave her a small nod—a subtle acknowledgment. Returning to Head Scholar Lee, he absorbed the introduction of the woman now named Jeon Dayeon. The mention of her father's request lingered, but Miro maintained his calm demeanor, ready to embrace his duty.

When Dayeon greeted him, Miro reciprocated with a courteous bow. "The pleasure of meeting you is mine. I am Han Miro."

With the formalities concluded, they were dismissed, and Miro guided Dayeon to the enchanting garden. Amidst the peaceful surroundings, she opened up about the circumstances that led to Miro becoming her mentor. Miro, though concealing any reluctance, understood the commitment required to guide her scholarly pursuits.

As they strolled, Miro responded to her with a subtle shake of his head. "Indeed, I am a scholar, and the realms of history hold no secrets from me. It appears you've found the right mentor."

The garden, with its serene ambiance, provided a perfect backdrop. Miro found a comfortable bench near a majestic fountain. As they settled, he continued the conversation, genuinely intrigued by Dayeon's passion for history.

"Why did the allure of history beckon to you?" he inquired, his eyes reflecting curiosity and the understated authority that accompanied his scholarly demeanor.

@✿ choi jiwoo saera found herself deeply moved by jiwoo's silent support, the warmth of his presence and the gentle pats on her back acting as a comforting balm for the wounds of her past. his companionship in that emotionally charged moment spoke volumes, a silent acknowledgment of the pain she had endured.

as the conversation gradually shifted towards jiwoo's life, saera couldn't help but notice his subtle attempt to divert her attention with the box of candy. in that moment, she made a conscious decision not to press further on the more sensitive topics, choosing instead to appreciate the sweet distraction he offered. accepting the box with a grateful nod, she listened attentively to his words about always carrying the candy, recognizing it as a thoughtful gesture that transcended words.

responding to his mention of a new flavor with a genuine smile, saera played along with the lighter atmosphere. "a new flavor, huh? what a pleasant surprise. thank you, jiwoo." the candy, beyond its sweetness, became a symbol of jiwoo's considerate attempt to guide the conversation away from the more painful aspects of their pasts.

however, saera's curiosity got the better of her, and she couldn't resist the urge to delve a bit into jiwoo's life. leaning in with a playful glint in her eyes, she asked, "but can i know what your role is in the court? are you holding a high position?" her tone was laced with genuine curiosity, understanding that jiwoo had been avoiding discussing his life. "i know you're trying to steer clear of personal details, but this is the least you should tell me!" she added with a playful yet sincere smile, leaving room for jiwoo to share as much as he felt comfortable.

@✿ jang deoksu "Look at you, Deokie, you're still calling me Jinnie after all these years!" she exclaimed, laughter dancing in her eyes. "You must have missed me more than you'd like to admit."

Her eyes sparkled with the familiarity of shared memories, and a smile played on her lips at the mention of their childhood. The reference to their childish antics brought forth a wave of nostalgia, and she couldn't help but chuckle at the amusing recollections of their younger days.

Closing the gap between them, her demeanor lightened as her gaze lingered on him for a moment. "In all honesty, Deokie, it's a pleasure to have you back. A lot has changed, like your height and my ladylike display tonight, but like time, things can't always remain the same."

As he jokingly spoke about looking for a real wife upon his return to Hanseong, Jinye played along with a teasing grin. "Oh, a wife, you say? The great Jang Deoksu is finally going to settle down, hm? The world must be ending," she quipped. "You were quite the heartbreaker back then, always running away from me and never wanting to be my pretend husband. I hope you're not planning to break any hearts this time around."

Leaning in closer, her voice lowered to a friendly whisper. "I must confess though that someone else might beat you to the altar." She soon revealed with a smile, "I'm going to be married soon. I hope you won't be too disappointed that you've missed out on a chance with me after all," she added, injecting a playful tone into her words.

With a light pat on his shoulder, she asked him, "did you dance well with any lady tonight? The ballroom was so stuffy I had to step out. Maybe there will be hopes for a wedding season among us soon, but the people have barely budged. What do you say, Deokie? Do you think you'll find someone tonight?"

@✿ seol yoonah Youngjae stepped out into the cool embrace of the palace gardens, seeking refuge from the bustling crowd in the ballroom. Despite spending most of his life in Hanseong and his visits to the palace were mostly limited to work duties, he was still astonished by the grandeur and magnificence that surrounded the building. However, the garden offered a peaceful escape from the lavishness of the gala.

The moon cast a soft glow on the blooming flowers, creating a magical atmosphere that seemed to transport him to a different realm. Each step he took revealed hidden nooks adorned with the delicate beauty of nature as the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze provided a soothing melody to his solitary stroll.

Amidst the floral blooms, Youngjae's eyes caught a figure bathed in the soft light. At first, she appeared as a distant silhouette, a mysterious presence in the quiet of the night. There had been so many faces at the event, many that had all blended together in a sea of unfamiliarity. Certainly, the chances were high that he did not know everyone in attendance, but there was also a slim possibility that he had run into someone from the past.

With each faint step, he slowed his pace, drawn closer by curiosity. As he approached, the features of the mysterious lady gradually became more defined. A strange sense of recognition tugged at the edges of his memory, leaving him curious and wondering where he might have known her from. And it was only when he came within a few steps of her that he became aware of her familiarity that transcended the passing years.

It had been a decade since his school years, and the faces of his peers had evolved with the passage of time. Yet, there was an undeniable presence about the lady before him that sparked a recollection from the depths of his past. Their past interactions had been limited by gender divides during those years, nonetheless she had left an impression he was certain to never forget.

"Seol Yoonah?" he called out, his voice carrying a hint of uncertainty, as if seeking confirmation from the night.

@✿ cha kiwoon Soo met Kiwoon's gaze with an unwavering composure, acknowledging the unspoken complexities that hung in the air between them. The moonlit garden, adorned with shadows and the soft glow of lanterns, seemed to amplify the quiet tension of their reunion.

As Kiwoon called her name, "Myeong," there was a softness in his tone that hinted at the layers of history they shared. His eyes, reflective of moonlight, held a depth that reached into the shared past of silent camaraderie and unspoken trust. Soo recognized the familiar ache of scars both visible and hidden, etched into the fabric of their intertwined fates.

In response to his question about her presence, Soo acknowledged the passage of time with a simple agreement. "It has been a long time," she conceded, her voice carrying the weight of unspoken stories. The acknowledgment of their separation and the ensuing silence lingered beneath the surface, a shared narrative etched in the lines of their expressions.

She revealed a sliver of her current circumstance, a departure from the solitary existence Kiwoon had known her for. "My friend insisted I attend," Soo explained, the admission betraying the subtle influence of external forces on her guarded solitude. The mention of a friend was a rare admission into the intricacies of her life, a detail that hung in the air like a delicate thread connecting her present to the enigmatic past.

As Kiwoon took a step closer, the invisible boundaries that had held them apart for so long began to dissolve. Soo, dressed in a hanbok that revealed a side of her rarely seen, remained a portrait of enigmatic elegance. His uncertainty, palpable in the hesitation that marked his movements, echoed the unspoken question that hung between them.

In response to his inquiry about her well-being, Soo's eyes betrayed a flicker of vulnerability—a fleeting moment where the fortress of her stoic demeanor seemed to waver. However, her response, measured and guarded, provided little insight into the complexities that lay beneath the surface. "I have been," she replied, leaving the rest unspoken, the shadows of their shared history dancing in the moonlit garden.

@✿ choi jiwoo saera's tears continued to brim down on her rosy cheeks, a poignant testimony to the hardships she had endured. she briefly pulled herself away, looking up at the male with a vulnerability that spoke volumes. "I'm sorry," she began, her voice choked with emotion, "my parents sold me off to a gisaeng's house, burdened by their debts. I'm working as one right now," she explained between her sobs. despite the pain, a glimmer of gratitude adorned her expression. "but I am glad that I met you again, here," she said, wiping away her tears and managing a weak chuckle.

as she composed herself, her eyes carried the weight of a thousand stories. "have you been alright?" she inquired, her curiosity genuine. "all this while, how have you coped with your life?"

the cherished memories of their childhood cast a radiant light upon saera's life, infusing it with a sense of joy and nostalgia. in those bygone days, jiwoo consistently demonstrated a natural talent for caring, always knowing how to look after her. saera found herself looking up to jiwoo not just as a childhood friend but as a reliable companion, a brotherly figure who added warmth and familiarity to her world. the way siwoo giving her the warmth that she need makes saera feels that she was loved.

@✿ jang deoksu Her eyes widened as she took in the identity of the man before her. She paused momentarily as the name Jang Deoksu repeated in her mind, evoking a sense of familiarity that stirred memories from her childhood. His face may have matured, but the mischievous look in his eyes and the subtle curve of his lips hinted at the friend she used to know.

Jinye couldn't help but feel a rush of nostalgia and with every blink of her eye, the years faded away before her, revealing the younger version of the person standing before her—the boy who was one of her dear friends, a cherished childhood companion.

A playful grin crossed her face as she recalled their old memories. "You're right, I should have been mindful of my steps," she then soon added in a rather teasing tone, "but you've always been the clumsy one, haven't you, Deokie?"

She couldn't resist the urge to call him again by the nickname she had affectionately given him when they were children. The days when they were boisterous kids running around the estate grounds flooded through her head. It was back in those days that they often got themselves getting into silly disputes which ended in tears more than it did in laughter.

The moonlit garden had turned into a place for this accidental reunion where their paths have come together and entangled them within the threads of the many years that have flown by. Her eyes sparkled with delight as she stepped closer, her hand on his shoulder to lightly move him away from their earlier proximity.

"It's been ages, hasn't it?" She reflected, "I thought you disappeared off the face of the earth, but here you are again right in time for the Seollal Gala." A glimmer of remembrance sparkled in her eyes as she looked up at him. "You've grown taller, but I see your gift of getting into trouble with me still hasn't changed."

Jinye couldn't help but continue teasing him, reverting to the old banter they once took part in. "So, what brings you back to Hanseong, Deokie? I almost didn't recognize you without the tears running down your face from all our childhood fights."

@❃ na soo There are very few times in which Kiwoon has been speechless and this moment was one of them. Through the years, Bimyeong was a solitary figure; a fleeting shadow who continued to be obscured by her raven dark hair and the midnight cloaks she wore to hide the sins that were none of her own to make. However, in Kiwoon's eyes, she was just like him, a lost soul. Did she also yearn for atonement and affection? Was she desperately seeking ways to break free from the chains of the past?

But he was unable to tell from the last time he saw her if the look in her eyes were different or not. It reminded him of their past; the countless days in which they spent together even without words, the trust that they had for one another, and the shared hardships that connected them in a way that could not be explained. They carried scars that were both visible and hidden as if they were carved from the same stone and shaped by the trauma that tied their fates together.

As he met her gaze, the moonlight reflected in her eyes held a quiet plea like a question that lingered between them in an unspoken promise. He had never been one to pry into her personal affairs, especially since their last meeting and how she never appeared before him again. He wanted to respect the boundaries that she created when he told her not to return. Yet, this moment tugged at a long-buried thread of care that he still had for her and that he would always carry with him for the rest of his life.

"Myeong," he called her name again, this time with softness. His gaze held the sight of her in the garden as the shadows clung to them. Part of him regretted that day a year ago when he told her to leave. He knew that she shouldn't stay associated with the Cha family, but part of him had always wondered if she would have been safer if she had stayed with him.

Kiwoon took a step closer, breaking the invisible lines that had kept them apart for so long. Dressed in her hanbok, she displayed an appearance that he had never fully seen from her, and yet although she looks like a different person, he knows that she is still Bimyeong, the person who showed him kindness in this harsh world.

"You're here..." his words sounded more like a question, as if wondering if it truly were her standing before him. However, before he could reach out to touch her, he paused, regaining his composure, uncertain of what her reaction would be. "Have you been well?"

@✿ choi jiwoo saera.

the sound of her real name echoed through the air, breaking the silence that had surrounded her for what felt like an eternity. she turned slowly, hesitating to face the source of the familiar voice. as her eyes met the taller man standing before her, an inexplicable wave of emotion washed over her. unbeknownst to her, tears welled up, blurring her vision as she bit her lip, gazing at him with a mixture of surprise and nostalgia. memories flooded back, vivid recollections of the times they had shared together.

"jiwoo?"

closing the distance between them, she walked towards him with a cautious hope in her eyes. lifting her hand, she gently grazed his cheek with her fingers. "is this really you?" the sincerity in her voice trembled with emotion, tears streaming down her rosy cheeks as she couldn't contain the overwhelming flood of feelings. seeking comfort, she leaned her head against his chest, craving the solace of an embrace. "what took you so long to find me? do you know how hard it is?" her words carried a blend of longing and frustration, expressing the emotional toll of waiting and wondering.

@✿ choi jiwoo as the man extended his hands toward her delicately adorned binyeo, jung couldn't help but feel a tinge of surprise. with grace, she gently pushed his hand aside, her eyes reflecting a subtle bewilderment. "that's why i'm asking you, why do you keep repeating my words? are you having fun, my lord?" she asked in a sarcastic tone, a hint of exasperation underlying her words, followed by a sigh that carried the weight of her frustration.

the audacity of him attempting to grasp her precious hairpin and daring to touch her so familiarly left jung indignant. "you know what," she continued, her voice tinged with a mix of irritation and determination, "if you're not going to provide an answer, then it's better if i continue on my way. let's not waste each other's time." with a slight bow of her head, she conveyed her annoyance, turning her body around to gracefully depart the garden.

as she contemplated her next move, jung decided that exploring another corner of the garden might offer solace.

@✿ choi jiwoo jung's eyes locked onto the tall man's, and a palpable tension hung in the air as a myriad of emotions played across their faces. his surprise mirrored hers, as if they had unexpectedly stumbled upon each other in a dream. the silence between them lingered, thickening with unspoken words. as he faltered in his attempt to speak, jung's curiosity deepened. her head tilted to the side, a gesture that betrayed both confusion and a subtle hint of amusement. the air was charged with unspoken questions, and the unease painted across the man's flustered expression only intensified the mystery.

"me?" she questioned, her anxiety bubbling beneath the surface. her fingers nervously danced along the edges of her sleeves, an unconscious habit that betrayed her growing discomfort. the unanswered words hung between them like a heavy veil, and jung couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this encounter than met the eye.

with a puzzled frown, she attempted to address the tension. "is there something on my face or—" her hands instinctively moved toward her cheeks, a futile attempt to decipher the source of his surprise. the man remained silent, his gaze fixed on her, adding to the enigma surrounding their connection.

"do we know each other?" jung finally voiced the question that had been lingering in her mind. the possibility that they might have crossed paths before tugged at her thoughts, yet the elusive nature of his reaction left her searching for answers.

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@✿ choi jiwoo of course, she still remembers the smile that he used to give her, for each memory they shared, even though it wasn't that long ago. after she left, jung misses him – saera misses him. the young boy who used to gift her the binyeo, even though they could barely do anything together, she appreciates him for that.

jung's fascination with the stars held her captive, the twinkling celestial bodies stealing her attention as she ambled along the path. lost in the cosmic dance overhead, she failed to notice the tangible world around her. unbeknownst to her, a tall figure approached, navigating the same trajectory with a focused stride.

the collision was inevitable – a moment of impact that abruptly brought her back to reality. a soft "ouch" escaped her lips as the jolt sent a sharp pang through her shoulder. wincing, jung looked up to find herself on the ground, the cold earth beneath her.

frowning, she voiced her discomfort, "can't you see that I'm standing here? why are you walking and taking my spot?" the frustration in her tone mirrored the annoyance etched on her face. As she attempted to rise, a mixture of pain and indignation lingered.

in a moment of realization, jung perceives that she might be addressing a person of higher social standing. swiftly, she bows her head in a gesture of apology, mindful of the binyeo gracefully adorning her hair. "I'm sorry, my lord. I didn't truly think before I spoke. I'll exercise greater caution in the future, and I apologize if I've inconvenienced you in any way."

@✿ jang deoksu Jinye made her way through the bustling palace ballroom, the vibrant melodies of the gala still resonating in her ears. Her social capacity has been exhausted and she needed a moment of alone time to recharge and escape the overwhelming number of people. The whispers of nobles and the laughter of courtiers echoed around her as she weaved through the crowd. She clutched the hem of her gown, the deep shade of ruby now slightly disheveled from her swift movements.

In her hurry to leave the grand ballroom, she reached the large crystal entryway and stepped into the palace gardens. The cool night air greeted her and the moonlit path stretched ahead. Faint laughter and melodies faded behind her as she sought peace and quiet in the soft glow of the moon that guided her steps through the intricate trails of flora.

Her footsteps echoed through the garden as she strolled the maze-like garden. Jinye replayed the conversations and encounters of the gala where each moment flashed like fireflies in the corners of her mind. Deep in her thoughts, she failed to notice the figure approaching from the opposite direction. Their collision was inevitable as suddenly, in the midst of her steps, she collided with the other person.

A sharp gasp escaped as she felt herself lose balance but due to years of training her balance, she was able to still keep steady on her feet and her gown fluttering in the slight breeze around her like a veil of ruby silk. She looked up to see the person she collided with, slightly annoyance painted on her usually calm manner.

However, the daughter from the house of the dove had always known to keep her emotions under control. "I apologize, kind lord. Please be mindful of where you're walking next time," she said, her voice laced with quiet complaint.

Yet, as she took in the sight of the person, her sigh of small frustration was caught in . The palace gardens were dimly lit, casting a veil of mystery over his features, however the moonlight that broke through the clouds played on his face. She doesn't know why, but the man before her seemed familiar, yet unfamiliar at the same time. Her eyes widened as she tried to place where she might have seen this person before.

"Who are you?" Jinye asked in an almost inaudible whisper as she hesitated for a moment before a glimmer of recognition passed through her eyes.

@✿ choi jiwoo there are so many stars above the sky that Jung is stunned as she watches them. star-gazing had always been a cherished activity for her, providing solace and a momentary escape from the events transpiring within the crowding ballroom.

"so pretty," she whispered, the enchanting scene triggering a cascade of memories from a time long past. the twinkling stars somehow evoked recollections of an old friend, a connection rooted in her previous identity as yoon saera. nostalgia gripped her, and a longing stirred within, yearning for the return of a voice that once called her by her true name.

it had been countless years since she had been sold to the sook, a fate that separated her from the past and the man she once knew. rationality dictated that he likely wouldn't remember her, and even if he did, the passage of time had transformed them into unrecognizable versions of their former selves.

the hairpin that adorns her hair right now was one of the gifts that she still keeps and wears to this day. she doesn't know what its purpose is. she already knows their meeting is something that can't possibly happen, but she wears it for the memories.

for her name that he used to call her.

@✿ cha kiwoon Draped in a hanbok adorned with delicate flowers and pastel hues, Soo stood amidst the vibrant ambiance of the Seollal Gala. The fabric, a departure from her customary black durumagi, swirled gently around her as she ventured into unfamiliar territory. The insistence of her fellow assassins had persuaded her to partake in the festivities, an occasion she had steadfastly avoided.

Choosing to linger in the palace garden, Soo found solace near a serene pond, its reflective surface mirroring the beauty of the night. The soft glow of lanterns adorned the surroundings, casting a magical spell upon the gala. Unaccustomed to social gatherings, Soo's eyes scanned the lively crowd from her secluded spot.

As she stood by the pond, Soo felt a gentle breeze rustling the delicate layers of her hanbok. The air seemed to carry the faint scent of cherry blossoms, adding to the ethereal atmosphere. A melody stirred within her, and despite her reticence, Soo began to hum a tune, the melancholic notes weaving seamlessly into the festive symphony.

Lost in the rhythm of her own melody, Soo's eyes fixated on the moonlit pond. It was then that she heard the familiar voice, a nickname that echoed through the air like a whisper. "Myeong." Kiwoon's voice cut through the night, and Soo's heart, usually shielded by the stoicism of an assassin, skipped a beat.

Turning towards him, Soo's eyes met Kiwoon's, and for a fleeting moment, time seemed to stand still. The pastel hues of her hanbok accentuated the contrast of her jet-black hair, creating an image of elegance and grace that diverged from her usual enigmatic presence.

Kiwoon's unexpected appearance in the garden stirred a whirlwind of emotions within Soo. Her unexpressed feelings, buried beneath layers of silence, began to unfurl like delicate petals. The moonlit garden bore witness to the convergence of two worlds—one cloaked in shadows, the other bathed in the soft glow of lanterns and the promise of something unspoken.

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