⁝ promenade.

@❀ yoo hyunsik “Even if they don’t say so, they hired you for a reason,” Aecha argued for her point, giving a light and nonchalant shrug of her shoulders. High and mighty people tended to be awful at wording their actual truth, but she knew better. Half of what they had was only possible because of the work of other people. And without Hyunsik by their side, Aecha was sure whatever lord or lady it was would not approach the world as happily and carefree as they now did. Speculations, of course. But she knew the kind.

“You know, you might just have inspired how I will made my partner happy when she comes back from her trip,” she hummed happily, before giving him a polite nod of her head. “I must thank you, Hyunsik. As ever, you are more clever than me. It had been long since she had actively done any kind of show performance, having relied on her skills many for getting around unnoticed. But perhaps her dear Moon would enjoy a fan dance or the like. A myriad of ideas were already spawning as she stood there, unable to hide the excited smile on her face.

Her little moment to herself was only broken by him voicing excitement of her original idea. “It would be my treat. On the house, so to speak,” Aecha shot back. The tapping on the hilt of her sword had eased, her hand now resting on the pommel, knuckles white from the force of her grip. Perhaps she was doing good, but it still felt a bit nerve-racking. At least he seemed open to the idea of rekindling their long lost friendship. “Don’t get your hopes up too high though. I no longer am that same wild child you knew.”

Of course he had to leave. Private bodyguard and all. It was a surprise he had been able to stay as long as he did with the way he had been walking at the start of the encounter. “Do not let me hinder you, Hyunsik,” Aecha teased, mimicking a very formal bow. “Every day. You can just swing by and ask for me.” She smiled. It was hard not to. This was going great. “Of course. I live within the city, so I’m sure the courier could find the right location. Just… Ya Aecha. Same old name,” she hurriedly rambled out, unsure if there was any truth to the statement. Eh… Better than nothing.

@❃ ya aecha Hyunsik couldn't read the expression on the others face, though he couldn't help but notice that she saw his eyes wandering. She didn't try to hide or anything, so he had hoped that it was okay. That she didn't think he was judging her at the very least. There was a lot that wasn't known, and Hyunsik could respect that everyone has their secrets, even those he felt the closest too, even if they weren't as close as they had once been.

"I hope so." His words were soft once again, he knew that his current employer had been just for looks, or that's what he felt like. Though, he had hoped that he was useful and reliable where it was needed, never failing to uphold to his duties. As a personal body guard it felt like Hyunjin had a lot less time to himself, but it had kept him busy and distracted more often than not.

He felt a little relieved knowing that even after the time had passed, she wasn't too critical of the way his words fell out, she just rolled with it. "I'm sure they would." He let out a soft chuckle, now letting the worries wash away. He nodded lightly at the others words, humming in acknowledgement. It wouldn't be so bad for him to step out of his normal routine, to visit an old friend, especially someone he had actually missed. There was so much life that had happened between the two, that there was a proper session of catching up. "I would like that, actually." He nodded once again, his eyes a bit softer. "I definitely could have a friend like you, once again." He agreed in a subtle way to having missed her too.

He cleared his throat lightly, a realization of having spent too much time from his actual duties, glancing around at the sky, and people passing through. "I must be getting on though," He paused, his eyes now back on her. "I'll see you around? If you're there sometime in the coming week, I'll try to stop by, hm?" He didn't want to leave without some form of knowing when they'd possibly meet up again. "I can write to you if something comes up?" His tone raised at the end, indicating that he was asking, unsure of where he would send any letter, but he would try.

@✿ baek junwoo "so would you have let that lady be in danger?" hyunjung says, raising an eyebrow. clearly, the man's answer does not please her—and she her chin up, even if the difference between their heights puts her in a slight disadvantage. "it's better than simply being a bystander, isn't it? i couldn't just let her be in danger when i know that i could've done something to change it."

perhaps she shouldn't be talking so defiantly. first of all, this man seems to be of higher ranking, what with servants running around. and even that lady stranger's demeanor changed the moment this man entered the picture. but this man is hitting the wrong nerve, his what would have been genuinely curious questions sounding a bit more like he's looking down on her.

"well, i don't see you coming in to help your servant, do i?" she says without thinking much of her tone. "i would've thought of a plan if that had happened, but it didn't. and even if there was a chance of it going wrong, i still wouldn't have left a helpless lady to fend off for herself when i know i can do something about it."

but the demand for her name makes her clench her jaw, and she tries to shake her head, waving her hands dismissively as well. "i really insist that you don't. i don't want a reward or a token of gratitude for it," she says, hoping that he drops it. what would her father even say, if he finds out that his daughter has been engaging in reckless fights?

she leans back a little when he leans in closer, in fear that any closer he might see past through her disguise. "well, you don't have to worry about that," she says carefully. "i don't think we'll meet again any time soon—or ever, for that matter. i doubt you'll even remember me."

@❀ yoo hyunsik Even when she noticed his eyes wandering to the spots she had willingly left bare, he said nothing. She had gotten so used to the wandering eye of the common folk she passed back before she started to hide away, so there was little way she wouldn’t see his doing so too. And though she knew what she was revealing was a past he knew little off, it was nonetheless her past. Each awful angle of it was what had lead her to where she was today. Who she was today.

Yet he asked no questions, smiling and laughing instead as they had when they were younger. Aecha didn’t know if that was a good or bad thing. All she knew was that he wasn’t showing any anger or resentment in any direct form, as that was the only two emotions she had learnt to read on people. Everything else was more of a… recent addition. Ever since the Madame had granted her a second chance, she had done her best to attempt at learning the kinder emotions. Forgiveness. Sadness. Joy. All the things she was trying to learn to read so she could better approach people than she had in the past. So hopefully she could find people that could be in her life.
Existence would be so lonely without anyone else.

“And yet, I am certain any lord or lady having you by their side would feel quite content and safe.”
‘I always did,’ her mind added as she smiled. To this day she had never told him too much of what had happened. Never told him the injustice she had suffered at her own father’s hand. All she had showed him was the happy girl still grasping for life beneath the struggles and hardship. The one that could hop around and do tricks, all the while smiling and laughing as if nothing could hurt her. He had in many ways been her safe haven inn her youth.

“In fact, I am,” she chuckled, watching Hyunsik trip over himself trying to justify his comment about dancing. “Don’t worry. If I wanted to I’d dance in my spare time. I’m sure certain people could find enjoyment in that,” she hummed with a smile. “I just wanted to be direct so that I don’t give a wrong impression of who I have become.” He deserved the truth. She trusted him. “Well, it is not for everyone. But-“ Aecha hesitated. “If you ever come near and have a moment off… Perhaps we could share a drink? Catch up properly?” Why was this hard? She was already baring her truth to him, but this… being all vulnerable… It was difficult. “I’ve missed having you around and- It’s nice to know you still live, all these years later.”

@❃ ya aecha It was all too easy how he fell into the banter with Aecha. He couldn't help the bit of laughter that escaped his lips, following by scrunching his face up a bit at the other in a small playful manner. He didn't say anything else to continue before allowing the conversation to fall more into their catching up.

Hyunsik had heard too many stories flutter around about the one standing before him, and while he knew there was some truth to the things he heard, he couldn't bring himself to hold any opinions on the matter not having heard them from the source themselves. His eyes scanned the other and did notice the markings on her skin, and though he was curious about them, perhaps they would be stories for another day. When he and perhaps her, had more time. A small part of him had ached that he couldn't have been there more for her, they were friends after all, but he had always been pulled away to do his duties, and before he knew it the two of them were separated for quite sometime. He let out a soft breath at his thoughts, mentally waving them all away, before the others voice had broken his train of thought.

"There's others who've done much more than me." He spoke genuinely, though he was proud of his work, he had always held himself to higher expectations. "Oh, you are?" Humming a bit, before he stopped, quirking an eyebrow at the following statement as if he had just forgotten the other's previous statement. His head tilting to the side in curiosity, before letting out a small chuckle in realization at the others hurried note. "Oh, that's a shame though, that you don't dance anymore." A statement made without much thought before his eyes widened a bit. "I meant like you should do things you enjoyed." He blinked. "Not that you don't enjoy being a body guard." This time an exasperated sigh, and another headshake, deciding to just change the subject. The confusion completely throwing his brain off guard. "I don't personally frequent there but I've been in the area."

@❀ yoo hyunjung junwoo's brow furrowed, his expression a mix of curiosity and skepticism at the sudden turn in conversation. he paused, contemplating the scenario presented before him. "i don't know," he began, his voice measured. "for me, it's all about the context. i don't typically engage in such recklessness, as you've demonstrated. what if the man you confronted had possessed superior strength? it could have escalated into a dangerous situation."

his gaze lingered on the female figure standing before him. "what would your plan have been then?" he inquired, a note of genuine curiosity coloring his voice. "it would have undoubtedly complicated matters had i needed to intervene. but i must admit, i appreciate your efforts in coming to the aid of my clumsy servant."

junwoo's tone shifted, adopting a subtle demand as he continued, "therefore, i insist on knowing your family's name. it's only fitting that i send a token of gratitude for your bravery, whether you approve or not." his insistence bore a hint of his stubborn nature, a determination to see his intentions through, regardless of any objections.

he leaned forward slightly, his demeanor shifting to one of contemplation. "also, i want to require your name for future reference as well," he stated, his tone now tinged with a sense of authority. "it's essential for maintaining proper decorum in our interactions moving forward." junwoo's eyes held a hint of intrigue as he awaited her response, eager to see how long she could maintain her façade in his presence.

@❀ yoo hyunsik “Don’t mean you have to spell it out for the whole world, does it?” Aecha kept teasing back at him, a stubborn grin on her face. It was nice to see that for as straight forward and dry her could be that his humor was still there. Hopefully she had not jabbed him in any injury though, as he had seemed more taken aback by her action than she had expected. Hindsight was always clearer as they said, and she definitely was not one to have a great vision of the future.

When he didn’t push further with questions as to her statement, Aecha’s shoulders eased up a little. Her past already came up far too often for her own liking, especially from those that only knew a little, or saw just the right angle to read anything on her body. It was why her collars were often high and her sleeves pulled as far down on her hands as possible. Except for today. For as much as she knew that past might scare him, knowing it was what had broken them apart all those years ago, she did not want to meet him again on false pretences. So her collar was open, sleeves rolled back, letting burglar, thief and vandal all remain quite visible. Even the rose that covered her worst crimes was on full display.

“You say that with such humility, you’d think you don’t do an important role at all.” Or perhaps she just thought highly of her own ‘office’ so to speak. Giving the pommel another click of her fingers, she smiled, bowing her head likely. “It seems we run the same business these days. I too am a bodyguard.” Fighting had become the one thing she was really good at. “If you frequent Hanbamman, you might one day see me,” Aecha continued on, a proud smile on her face. “As a bodyguard, of course,” she hurriedly added after a moment, an awkward chuckle escaping her. “I don’t really dance anymore.”

@✿ baek junwoo the lady stranger is flustered, stammering, though hyunjung supposes that this is normal. after all, the lady has just almost gotten in trouble, with how persistent and rough the bastard had been with her. it is only natural that she's caught off guard, still unable to calm. "do not worry too much about it," hyunjung says with a faint smile, not quite certain of how she's supposed to address this. she usually tries to keep a low profile, after all, but she isn't one to let someone who's clearly in need of help suffer if she can help it. "i only did what anyone else would do."

she blinks as the lady stranger utters a name, eyes widening at—someone behind hyunjung? as the lady stranger bows, hyunjung turns around, only to immediately crane her head upwards to see a man almost a head taller than her instead. a somewhat unfamiliar face... has hyunjung seen him before, she wonders.

but she's quick to take a step back, now wondering if she should bow as well. clearly, this man of high status. perhaps higher than hyunjung's rank? she watches as the lady stranger leaves the two of them alone with a quick turn of her head to the side. 'lady han,' hyunjung repeats in her mind. she hopes lady han doesn't meet too many men like that bastard from earlier.

hyunjung turns her attention back to the man, her cordial smile meant for the lady immediately dropping as she bows her head a little out of respect. but then mild panic arises—which family is she from, he asks? she blinks repeatedly, before standing upright, and she shakes her head. "no, it's fine, really!" she says, raising both of her hands to chest level. she clears . "i—i do not need rewards, sir. i only did what others would do," she says, more calmly this time. "wouldn't you do the same?"

@❀ yoo hyunjung yooah was surprised when someone is willing to help her out escaping such situations. she couldn't be more thankful when the 'male' dragged her away from the scenes. her rosy cheeks flushes in crimson red when they finally away from the incident place, and there is only two of them there. the 'male' questions got her lovestruck as she's stuttering in shy, while nodding her head. "ah, I'm f fine now, my lord. it's really fine for dragging me here because if you wouldn't save me, I will be in a big trouble." said her with her soft delicate voice. "thank you, my lord." said her again as she shyly bows her head in gratitudes.

junwoo who watches all the situation that happened in front of him, can only sigh. 'my lord my —' he appeared behind the said lord, which cause yooah's eyes to be widens. "m my lord baek! " she quickly bows her head and bites her lips nervously. "lady han, I think it's time for you to go home." order him. there's a hint of coldness in his voice that got yooah shivers for sure. she quickly bows her head again at junwoo and the young lord , saying her thanks again before she hastily makes her way out of the two.

junwoo clears his throat as he glances at the back figure. "that was brave of you." ( — as a woman to do that. ) but the other words doesn't seem to escape his throat as he sighed. he stood by the young lord's side right now before he's facing the person, meeting with her beautiful(?) eyes. "which family are you from? as I shall send some rewards for saving my clumsy servant." demand him.

@❃ ya aecha Hyunsik should have been prepared for the other to jab him in the side, perhaps the only thing time has given him was less quick reflexes to actions like that, gasping lightly, he rubbed his side letting out a soft chuckle. It was a sense of relief to know that the dynamics between the two hadn't been lost, regardless of age or time. Even in this small encounter that they were having now. "It's the truth." He mumbled lightly while straightening his stance once again.

"That's good." The words had fallen off of Hyunsik's tongue without much thought. He took a moment to observe the others expression, and the male couldn't help but to take a moment to relax, a moment of all the worlds burden to be forgotten. A shy chuckle escaped his lips as he shook his head a bit at the others statement. At most the male was an average soldier, one that allowed him to get through what he needed. "I have had my fair share of experience, and decent enough not to get killed." Agreeing just the slightest amount, but still staying humble. "I'm just a mere body guard at the moment, though." He let out a light hearted laugh at his own words.

"What about you, hm?" He hummed lightly, taking in the sight of the woman even more than he has this entire time, the differences may have been subtle but they were there. He had heard so many stories of what had happened, and even more stories of some people speaking the worst, but Hyunsik couldn't take any of the judgements to heart as even if she was capable of doing such things, that was still his friend people were talking about. He couldn't see any reason for her doing too much without just cause, or that's what he had hoped at least. "What are you doing now?" He added in case she didn't want to delve into the past that eluded them.

@❀ yoo hyunsik [h] As they stood there Aecha could almost envision their childhood selves. Her balancing around the tiled tops of the walls near his home, watching him perform the many tasks he would always be given. Though she herself had often had just as many, she was far more prone to running away to talk to him instead, the more natural trouble maker of the two. In time, that would prove to be more literal than she had thought back then.

His little ribbing earned him a quick elbow to the side and a half-laughed: “Shut up.” It was true that she’d always been short, at least in comparison to him. Yet all she could feel at him pointing it out was how there seemed to have been nothing lost between them. Even after all these years, he still had that same cheeky grin and humour.

“A lot better than it once had.”
Aecha’s expression softened, the smile sinking ever so slightly along with her shoulders, taking up a more rested stance before him. Her right hand moved to land on the hilt of her sword, tapping her fingers to an unheard melody against the pommel-cap. “What about you? I heard vague tales that you’d become a soldier. I take it a good one, since you’re still standing here now.” She tilted her head to the side, one brow arched.

@❃ ya aecha There was no way that he could be seeing the girl from his childhood in front of him, Hyunsik was sure that he was hallucinating things, and it was just a ghost from his past that he had conjured up in his head. It wasn't until he turned more directly to face the girl, and saw her feet stutter lightly, just in time before she gained balance, and turned to look at him. Hyunsik, hesitant, waited for the other to recognize him before he made any kind of movement.

A warm smile tugged at the corner of his lips, the small utterance of the other confirmed that she, too, recognized him. He couldn't help but have an overwhelming amount of reminiscing hit him in that moment, watching as she came off the fence post and made her way towards him. Aecha had seemed much more mature and grown since the last time that the two of them had seen each other.

"It's been too long, Aecha." Hyunsik responded, though he knew that it wasn't quite needed but, he couldn't help the feeling of meeting with his long lost friend once again. He would allow himself a moment to catch up before having to continue any of the tasks that he was set out to do. "You've always been short." He teased lightly with a soft chuckle. "How has time treated you?" He asked, hoping that her past troubles that he was aware of before hadn't made it too hard on the other as she was growing up.

@✿ baek junwoo hyunjung did not really expect anything to happen tonight. after all, nights were often calm in hanseong—or at least, the nights she'd gotten to experience with her guise. but perhaps, she should've expected otherwise, been vigilant, for it was a festival. a celebration, where people of all standings and kinds would gather in one place. she should've expected as such, when she caught sight of a lady around her age, she believed, being dragged roughly by the wrist near the alleyway.

perhaps this time she should've thought twice. the man in question was much older, it was obvious by the mature lines on his face, and he was much bigger as well. no amount of masculine disguise hyunjung wore would fool anyone into thinking that she was bigger than she actually was. but she headed towards the two anyway, with nothing but her fists and anger in tow. (she had a dagger safely hidden away in her boots, but it was not yet time to use that.)

"hey, old man!" hyunjung called, standing close to the two. almost immediately, the man whipped his head to face her, irritation evident in his face now that someone decided to intrude. "take your disgusting hand off her!" she didn't give the man much time to react—she knew better than to give a dangerous man a chance. she raised her leg into a kick in between the man's legs, easily hitting him where she knew it would hurt the most.

the man let go of the lady in response, letting out a loud groan as he bent forward. but hyunjung didn't stop there. she took hold of his head, keeping him down, before she's raising her knee to his nose. her movements were perfect, smooth yet strong, as taught by her own brother. when the man fell, holding his groin for dear life, hyunjung grabbed onto the lady's wrist.

with a small apologetic smile, hyunjung dragged the dumbfounded lady away from the scene, running to find a place where she knew the man wouldn't be able to reach them fast. she didn't dare stop, but she did try to be careful not to let the lady trip (though if she had to... she would carry the stranger, with a bit of a struggle).

once she was certain that they were safe enough, she gradually stopped, and she hadn't realized just how fast her heart was beating since the moment she decided to confront that man. with a deep breath, she tried to calm her heart down—or calm herself as much as she could, before she turned to face the lady, a now sheepish smile painting over her lips, as if she hadn't just kicked a man for another lady's rescue moments prior.

"are you alright?" she asked, ensuring that she hadn't slipped into her usual feminine voice. "i didn't mean to be too rough dragging you all the way here, but... well, i had to make sure that bastard can't follow us here."

@❀ yoo hyunjung ---
backdated during the flower festivals one year ago, in 1869.

yooah, one of junwoo's servants, was heading towards the festival with her fellow servant, jisoo, after getting permission from the young lord himself to go out, but strictly not to pass midnight. during the festivals, jisoo and yooah decided to separate and meet again at the bridge, promising to go home together.

while strolling the festival grounds, yooah was captivated by the sunflowers at one of the stalls. she decided to buy one for her mother. while processing the payment, a sudden voice called out to her. "look who's here?"

yooah was surprised and stepped back nervously as a tall man interrupted her transaction. "a pretty lady. why are you alone tonight? do you need company?" asked the man, attempting to touch her shoulder. yooah quickly dodged the touch and tried to calm down. "d-don't touch me."

her warning was ignored as the man tried to grab her wrist and drag her away. "it's okay to be shy. after this, you won't be shy anymore. come with me," he insisted. "where do you think you're going, sweetheart? you belong with me," the assailant said, tightening his grip on yooah's wrist as she struggled to break free.

junwoo, in the midst of the commotion, noticed the sudden crowd and sighed upon seeing one of his servants there. now, a pang of guilt hit him because he was the one who allowed her to leave the baek estate earlier. "how dare he touch my people dirtily like that," he thought, feeling increasingly irritated. the incident with his younger sister came to mind, fueling his anger further. his hand was already on his sword as he carefully strode towards them.

@✿ geum hangyeol “My tardiness?” Seonhye gasped dramatically, an expression of amusement adorning her visage. “Surely, I am not that late, my lord.” She continues, hands moving to her chest with a little shake of her head. It was only after a short pause did she break into a soft fit of laughter. “I was a little caught up with work at the food shelter. You know how busy it can get during the mornings. Everyone’s rushing to get their hand on some rations despite knowing that we’ll never run out so forgive my tardiness.” Seonhye chuckled

Ignoring the curious gaze of onlookers at the park, the female turned to the other with an all too familiar smile gracing her lips, “should we take a walk, hangyeol? It’s been a while, hasn’t it?” she could hardly remember their last meeting, with only brief letters exchanged between them, and even those got sparse over time. With an extended arm, she motioned for the other to start walking beside her.

A comfortable silence blanketed the both of them as they took slow steps on the gravelled path. Oddly enough, despite the lack of correspondences between them, it was as if nothing had changed between them, as far as Seonhye could remember, Hangyeol was still the Hangyeol she knew back then and she too, though betrothed, once again, was still the Chae Seonhye he knew from the past.

“Busy? Hardly.” Seonhye jest, though the way her nimble fingers played with the hems of her sleeves conveyed something else. “But if you’re talking about my engagement that you’ve seen from those treacherous gossip papers, you must not really believe it, do you? Rest assured Lord Cha will treat me well.” ‘I hope’ she wants to add as she recalls their last meeting right here at the same place, but even that did not end happily. “I’ll be sure to tell you if he ever bullies me.” She reassures him.

“Enough about me though, how have you been, gyeol-ah? No word from you, no letters.” An exasperated sigh left her lips, her tiers pursing into a thin line. “Have you not missed me enough to write to me?”

@❁ cheon suryeon As Jaehoon made his way through the lush greenery of the promenade, his thoughts raced with anticipation and apprehension. The exchange of missives had reignited a dormant flame within him, stirring up memories and emotions he had long tried to bury. Years had passed since he last communicated with Suryeon, and the prospect of meeting her face to face after all this time filled him with a mix of excitement and trepidation.

Their paths had diverged after their breakup, as if fate itself conspired to keep them apart. But now, they were drawn back together, summoned by the need to uncover the truth behind their separation, hidden within the words of those missives.

The wait for this day had been agonizing, plaguing Jaehoon with sleepless nights and restless thoughts. He couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled in the pit of his stomach, the uncertainty of what awaited him at the lakeside meeting point.

As he approached the tranquil expanse of the lake, Jaehoon's steps quickened with a sense of urgency. The water shimmered in the soft light of the sun, mirroring the turmoil within his own heart. Would Suryeon be as calm as the still surface of the lake, or would she too be grappling with the weight of their past?

Finally, he caught sight of her standing by the water's edge, her silhouette a familiar yet distant figure. She seemed lost in contemplation, her gaze fixed on the serene expanse before her. Jaehoon's heart skipped a beat at the sight of her, the rush of emotions threatening to overwhelm him.

Was she feeling the same turmoil he was? Did she carry the same questions and doubts that plagued his mind? Only time would tell as they stood on the precipice of a long-awaited reunion, their fate hanging in the balance like ripples on the surface of the lake. Jaehoon approached Suryeon with cautious steps, uncertainty clouding his thoughts like a dense fog.

The once-familiar name threatened to escape his lips.
Suryeon.
But he held back, he wasn't sure if he should still address her with the intimacy they had shared in the past.

"Lady Cheon," he began, the words feeling foreign on his tongue after so many years of silence. "I apologize for my tardiness. I hope you hadn't been waiting too long." His voice wavered slightly, betraying the lingering doubts and apprehensions that gnawed at his conscience.

As he spoke, Jaehoon couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia wash over him, memories of their shared moments flooding back with bittersweet clarity. But beneath the surface of his composed demeanor, a whirlwind of emotions raged on, turmoil and uncertainty vying for dominance within his heart.

Would she still harbor resentment towards him for their tumultuous past? Or had time softened the edges of their broken relationship, paving the way for reconciliation and understanding? Only time would tell as they stood on the precipice of a long-overdue conversation, their words laden with the weight of unspoken truths and unfinished business.

@✿ seol riah Sungha cocked his head at her, a low laugh bubbling up. "Oh, pretty tiger lily," he cooed, tempted to grab her by her hair and pull her to him so she couldn't escape. "I want to hurt you very, very badly. Want. Not wanted. Even right now I would love nothing more than to wrap my hand around your pretty throat and see what kind of noise you make." His eyes drifted to her lips once. Would it be breathy? A small little squeak? Maybe a raspy moan? Oh, the possibilities!

Sungha kept staring up at the lady from where he knelt before her on the ground. His head remained tilted in an animalistic fashion, eyes sparkling with the promise of danger and something more. She would have to decide what that "more" entitled, but Sungha could give her whatever she wanted. He saw the way her eyes sparked at the thought of violence. He could remember how she didn't so much as flinch when he asked her to cut him open. No, his tigress was different than all the delicate little daisies he'd met thus far. His tigress craved violence the same way he did, perhaps even was by it the way he was. Either way, what bliss.

The performer nearly purred as he got chastised. Normally he would laugh, would challenge. Especially a lady of such high ranking. But his Lady Seol had a commanding air he found fun to entertain. He so rarely listened! Perhaps he could start, just for her. Though he wasn't sure how long he could hold himself back, how long the tether could stretch before it snapped entirely. That was part of the fun, too. It wasn't a /if/ he would bite, it was a /when/ he would.

"I am doing an /excellent/ job holding myself back right now," he said through his big grin. "And if you think this is me unable to contain my excitement, I fear I shall only disappoint. Though for you, my lady, I shall keep up public appearances."

Sungha willingly held out his palm for her, letting out a sharp intake of breath as the blade cut through his skin. His eyes fluttered as he his bottom lip into his mouth, catching it with his teeth. What ecstasy! He watched the red bubble to the surface and sighed in relief. "What a pretty color, red," he murmured, eyes still glazy and faraway.

The male looked up at his tiger lily again, letting out a laugh. "Holding myself back would be considered a great feat of magic by others who know me." He cradled his injured hand. "I shall treasure this," he promised. "And I shall happily seek you out." Sungha swept into a low bow, his upper half bending over his lower, his bloodied hand smearing red against the grass beneath him.

Oh, what fun he was about to have! He'd have to do his best not to let the wound reopen, then. Let it heal fast.

@✿ moon jaehoon Backdated late September 1868. // TW (just in case) : self-hatred.
⸺

The lush leaves of the forest catch the sun's rays, casting shadows to protect the falconer below from its direct heat. Summer has slowly prepared to leave to let autumn takes its place, yet the heat remains strong. Suryeon stood nearby the lake, watching the soft wind create slight ripples over the blue water as she waited for Marquess Moon. The world seemed to soothe her somehow, for the impending storm that will surely come as she lays all her secrets to her once betrothed.

Sleep eluded her last night and for the first time in a long while she woke Chodal, in the deep of night, for a small hunting excursion. Her longtime companion, however, refused to hunt given his unhealthy condition and Suryeon settled for a walk, following old peregrine's trail of flight as she set him free. The falconer only returned to her family's residence as dawn began to tuck the night away. While she witnessed the sun rises in all its golden glory, the determination in her to enlighten Jaehoon of the reasons behind the abrupt decision to leave him began to fade.

No.

Enough running away.

As the sun continued to rise, Suryeon hung her head low, fingers gripping tight to the wooden yard bench. For more or less a decade, she had hid it from every single person she loved, not wanting to add more burden to her family as they adjusted to being a commoner. She allowed the secret eat her away, leaving her regretful. Her heart tainted by undirected hatred that will always end up returning to herself; despising that she had let things carried away until it was to late to save the little soul, despising the fact that she still lives on, loathing every single breath she breathes in and out. It felt only felt right to hate herself yet. . .

She longed for her wings to be free from its shackles. To not feel as if she's stuck at the bottom of a well. Despite knowing lingering regrets will remain, she wanted to once be unapologetically herself. So, she gathered her courage once more, every single piece of it, until she now stood where they had last met, waiting for her ex's presence.

This moment was for her as much as it was for Jaehoon.

Suryeon exhaled shakily, her fingers fiddling with the bird whistle strapped along with her herb pouch, before turning her gaze to where Jaehoon should arrive from. She willed for the stress on her heart to ease, not wanting to appear weak from the get go.

@❃ bang sungha She can see the slight irritation, the slight shift in his demeanor after her palm connected with his cheek. But as quickly as she was able to see the glimpse of irritation that bubbled through the surface, it was gone. Replaced by a wild grin, one that she was now too accustomed to. The countess would wonder how many people were unnerved by such man. How peculiar. How interesting.
It was his defiance that struck a chord in Riah. Indeed, he was not like the ones who served under her, the ones who gave in to her every whim.

“Why? Did you want to h-hurt me?” Riah utters, feigning innocence when she stutters. As she continued to study him. Her fingers still wrapped around his neck, her hold tightening the longer they remained there.

“You’re a strange one. But I like strange things.” What made the man the way he is? She has not met someone so, unhinged. Admittedly, it unnerved her to some extent as she was not used to being in the presence of such a character. But Sungha was like an acquired taste. Interacting with him was definitely not just like interacting with any suitors—or males who squirmed under her gaze. If anything, he reveled in riling her up. In seeing her irritated with his antics.

An audible gasp escapes her lips when she hears the man elicit a low groan and when she sees his expression change to that of silent provoking to something indescribable, to the countess anyway. She was not an innocent prude; she knows why one would react in such a way but to witness it first hand… If Sungha’s goal was to shock her, perhaps even intimidate her then he would have succeeded for she withdrew her hand quickly. If not for the reassuring weight of her dagger within her person, then she might have even felt cornered as he stared up at her from where he knelt. His expression was unreadable.

“You are…so full of surprises.. and so..” she trails off as she reaches for the dagger. It was a silver eunjangdo, ornately crafted by a master artisan. As if meant to just be decorative display. Before today, the countess would have never thought that there would be a need for her to use it. But he was beautiful as he was unpredictable, and she would not be cornered. Riah glares at him, as if daring him to continue being improper.

“Improper..and unbelievable. You see me after two years and you cannot contain your excitement? In public?” She questions, disapproval laced the tone of her voice that got louder as clearly, she was flustered by such display.

“Give me your hand.” And when Sungha gives her his left hand, the palm she has yet to scar.
Without hesitation, Riah deftly traced a line across his skin, the sharp blade parting his flesh and coaxing forth a renewed trickle of crimson, staining the pristine canvas of his palm. The sight calmed her, distracting him to his display of impropriety.

“No magic tricks today?” She sheathes her dagger as she regarded him.

“When the wound heals, seek me out. You know my name now, it should be easy to find me.”

@✿ seol riah Ah, his little tigress had such an air of authority! Sungha hated authority. Made him want to rebel, to go against. Life was much more fun that way, after all. Even though this pretty tigress made him feel like submitting, he couldn't make things that easy for her. He had to push back a little. If he didn't, what would set him apart from anyone else who served her? Besides, he had a feeling she would enjoy punishing him for talking back and disobeying just as much as he would enjoy it--though make no mistake, Sungha would enjoy the punishment even more.

"Yes, my family are all familiar with my nature. I would not go as far as to say as they accept it, but they do not discourage me. One of my brothers has even found it advantageous to his safety. Is that strange to you, Lady Seol?" He spoke her name clearly, enunciating each syllable almost to a point of mocking, but not quite. Just brushing the edge. He had to hold back the giggle that would give him away. He was already pushing too much today. Deciding he should at least try to be a little good for her, Sungha tilted his head with a smile. "In private, may I call you tigress?"

He was about to brush her jaw with the scarred pad of his thumb but--ah. What sweet, stinging bliss was this? Head whipping to the side ever so slightly, Sungha slowly lifted a hand to touch his stinging cheek, though his lady's touch beat him to it. Sungha slowly turned to her, eyes dark and stormy. He could feel that typhoon building within him, swirling around the pit of his stomach and building pressure in his chest. If it were anyone else, he would retaliate immediately.

Yet somehow....somehow her touch quelled the roiling winds and churning clouds. Instead, Sungha let out a loud laugh, eyes wide and pupils blown. He couldn't stop laughing! My, my, it had been a while since someone hit him--especially without consequences!

"Oh, Lady Seol," he crooned, the laughter dying down, though the wolfish grin remained. "If you were anyone else, I would have done much more than an unsanctioned touch in response to being slapped. It felt so /good/ though."

Sungha let out a breathy, low groan when he felt her hand tighten on his neck. He did nothing to hide the sleepy lust the action brought to his eyes, catching his lower lip between his teeth. Slowly, Sungha knelt down before her, keeping his eyes on her at all times. Though they were clouded with desire, they remained sharp, focused. The eyes of a predator sizing up another, ready to fight or mate--perhaps even both.

@❃ bang sungha Riah's brows knit together as she heard the man refer to her as Tigress, a nickname he seemed accustomed to after two years of thinking about her. She dismissed it with a wave of her hand.

"No matter. Out in public, you'll address me as Lady Seol. That's non-negotiable." She asserted her preferences firmly, showing little concern for his feelings. This was typical of her—raised to never settle for anything that didn't align with her desires. She attributed this trait to her grandfather, a convenient scapegoat for the less flattering aspects of her personality that this man seemed to provoke effortlessly.

Her reaction was subtle yet unmistakable as she involuntarily flinched when his knuckle grazed her cheek. It became evident to her that he was not accustomed to proper behavior or boundaries. In that moment, she realized he was a project in need of refinement—a blank canvas waiting to be shaped by her influence.

"Your brother calls you Tiger? He must be familiar with this... aspect of you," she remarked cryptically, alluding to the untamed quality she sensed in him, a madness that was openly displayed and understood by those around him. Sungha was unbound by societal norms, freely expressing himself without restraint—a quality that intrigued Riah.
In many ways, they shared a similar boldness, yet they were fundamentally different. Unlike Sungha, who embraced his raw authenticity, Riah always presented herself flawlessly to society, embodying the poised elegance expected of a countess.

In her social circles, Riah was the epitome of elegance—an imposing figure who commanded respect and stirred fear among potential suitors. Yet behind closed doors, a darker aspect of her nature lurked—a streak of cruelty that seemed inherent, perhaps a product of enduring years under her grandfather's harsh influence. Despite this duality, Riah had learned to masterfully balance both sides of herself.
However, in the presence of Sungha, she shed the façade. Here, she could simply be herself—cruel and unfiltered. Surprisingly, he seemed to revel in this side of her, finding admiration in her unapologetic authenticity.

Riah's eyes widened slightly as she felt Sungha's warm, scarred hands gently cupping her face. The rough texture of his palms, adorned with scars, contrasted with the tenderness of his touch. Despite the gesture, she couldn't help but be irked by his apparent lack of restraint.

"Do you mean it?" he asked, his tone filled with adoration and almost a hint of obsession. Riah sensed his eagerness wouldn't end there.
Then, he pushed further, asking if he could kneel before her once again. Her initial inclination to forgive his disrespectful enthusiasm was swiftly replaced by a resolve to assert her dominance. In her world, disobedience was met with correction—pets needed to be reminded of their place.

The countess took a step back, withdrawing from his touch, and the next sensation she experienced was the sharp sting on her palm as it made contact with Sungha's cheek in a swift slap.

"I do not recall giving you permission to touch me so intimately, Sungha," she stated coldly, her tone devoid of warmth. As she reached out to where she had just struck him, a mark had already appeared on his skin. She allowed her touch to linger, soothing the bubbling irritation that surfaced within her.
Her eyes held a steely resolve, daring him to question her boundaries again. In her world, respect and consent were not negotiable, even with someone like Sungha.

"If you wish to become one of my people," Riah declared, her voice cool and commanding, "then you must understand one fundamental rule: I do not tolerate unsanctioned touches."
Her fingers lingered on Sungha's face before trailing down to encircle his neck, the touch initially exploratory but gradually tightening in a silent warning. Riah’s audacity makes up for the height difference between her and the male.

"Kneel then," she ordered, her tone unwavering, her eyes fixed on his. It was a command that brooked no disobedience, underlining her authority and the consequences of defiance in her world.

@✿ seol riah Sungha crinkled his nose up. Of course the pretty tiger hadn't moved for him, but a man can have dreams, can he not? It was a romantic thought, though of course one far too good to be true. He made a soft noise in response, running his thumb over his scar once more, the action a familiar habit. He really had cherished that pretty scar, finding comfort and excitement equally in it. When he had first received the mark, he often pressed his nail into it, wanting to keep the wound open. But he knew that would be bad for his health, and the longer it took to heal the longer he would have to rest before fully returning to performing.

Mother Bang knew of his strange affinity for pain, both giving and receiving. She had accepted it, as had his adopted siblings, but Sungha knew none of them fully understood him. That was well enough; even Sungha was unsure as to why he enjoyed pain the way he did. He liked the shine that came to peoples' eyes from the first bite of it, to watch as their expressions morphed into shock, agony, anger. Sometimes people surprised him. His patrons were a fine example, those whose eyes sparked with the heat of desire upon feeling his knives.

Often times they wished to use them on Sungha--begged, sometimes. But that was a no-no. Sungha was off limits. He could not imagine those old, papery hands on him. He could not be expected to get hard with patrons like that. So he had set a general rule that he would do the touching with no receiving. Anyone who objected would find their wounds just a touch deeper, enough to inflict more damage while being shallow enough to claim it an accident of passion. As if he could ever feel passion for people like that.

His tigress, on the other hand...oh, she was different. Beautiful and young, for a start, but he sensed in her a drop of his own makeup. The same wild streak, the same hint of /other/. Like moth to a flame, Sungha wanted to delve deeper. He wished, for the first time in his life, to submit. Though he couldn't promise he wouldn't bite if cornered. It was his nature, after all. You cannot fault a scorpion for stinging.

Sungha let out a soft, dreamy sigh. "Making people scared is much more fun than pleasing them." He cocked his head at hear. "Lady Seol..." he repeated, letting the sound roll over his tongue. He made a face. "Tigress suits you better," he decided, before pausing in his tracks.

"House of the Tiger?" he repeated before roaring out in mad laughter. "Perhaps I should have been a shaman instead of a sword swallower!" Sungha reached out to brush his knuckles against her cheek, grinning widely. "I knew you were a pretty little tiger. Felt it in my soul. My brother calls me a tiger, too. I could tell you were like me."

Oh, but the pretty tiger lily's next words felt too good to be true! Be hers? "Belong to you?" he repeated, eyes lighting up again. His smile remained plastered onto his face. "Do you mean it?" He turned to face her, reaching to cup her face in his hands to study her delicate features. If she punished him for the incredibly inappropriate action, all the better. "Can I get down on my knees for you again?" Sungha asked, voice suddenly and uncharacteristically low and soft.

@❃ bang sungha “Did I move for you?” It would be Riah’s turn to laugh. Genuine amused laugh. How did he easily invoke such emotion from her when she usually held back emotions? Perhaps it was something that only he could bring out from the countess. Sungha brought out something sinister, something slightly off kilter within her.

“Of course not my dear… though I am glad fate has brought you back to me.” Aware that the latter might be older than her, Riah still refused to use honorifics even as someone who usually never lacked in proper decorum and etiquette.
Riah would smile when she sees the scar that their encounter had left him. She reaches down with the hand that she did not use to touch his face with to trace the faint white line that now decorated it like jewelry. Her touch was light, barely lingering on his skin before she withdrew. She watches him pout. What a sight it was, she would not admit out loud, but she found him endearing. Like how a tamed tiger would appear. So willingly showing his emotions to her like that.

“No need for apologies, I am glad that you kept the one that I gave you after all these years.” She chided, her mood already better from the brief interaction that had occurred between the two of them.

“I bet you do tiger, but I’m afraid I have scared them enough.” Riah says, turning to look at the spectators with a glare seemed to soften when her gaze comes back to the man in front of her. Some of the spectators went about their ways, clearing their throats as if washing their hands of the encounter that they had just watched unfold.

“Yes I promise… come now. Let us be off. Ah.. but before that. Are you not curious of my identity? or do you prefer calling me tigress.” She began, as she watched the male fall into step beside her. Riah’s lady in waiting still carefully followed the two of them.

“Though I do adore ‘tigress’, perhaps you can call me Lady Seol..when we’re out in society. Just like this.” She does not wait for further questions before she reveals her true identity to him. From now on, if he wished to seek her out, he only needed to utter her family name and all of Hanseong would know where to direct him.
“I’m Seol Riah..from the House of the Tiger.” She smiles, glancing at him. At how the nickname he managed to give her fit her identity well.

“And now that I saw you again. I’m reluctant to let you go like last time. Bang Sungha….Become one of my people won’t you? Belong to me.” Riah shamelessly propositions, stopping in her tracks when they arrive at a path less travelled where no prying eyes can see their interaction of follow them. Her eyes gleamed in anticipation as she waited for his response.

@✿ seol riah Sungha had a vague, distant understanding that there were others around them, that they weren't alone. However, Sungha was never one to care, to notice. Already he had been deemed strange, sometimes crazy. They weren't entirely wrong though, were they? Sungha didn't care for himself, but it did dawn on him that perhaps doing this in front of his pretty tiger lily would not be the best idea. Rumors about him? No one cared. But her? Well...Sungha wasn't sure. She seemed upper class. Most everyone was higher than him on the social ladder, that much was certain. Either way, not the best for a lady like her to get caught up in rumors about a street performer kneeling before her. Perhaps it could be written off as him begging for forgiveness.

"How are you here?" he wondered aloud, cocking his head from side to side. "Did you move, pretty tigress? Did you follow me?" That made his eyes sparkle and dance, a laugh threatening to bubble past his lips once more. How amusing that would be, indeed!

Sungha nearly purred as he felt her touch his face, turning it this way and that. His dark eyes fluttered, enjoying the contact with a sleepy grin plastered on his face. He let out a soft hum, offering both of his hands out to her in silent consent. The one pretty scar across his palm, though his other palm was still decorated with various other scars. He couldn't help but pout. "I did not wish to ruin your scar, but I still had other tricks to perform." Sungha suddenly felt ashamed of his scars, of any scar not given by his tiger lily. "I am sorry," he added.

Once more, Sungha glanced around, acknowledging that there were in fact other people around. He blinked up at the female before him. "I would not?" he asked, blinking. "Scaring them sounds fun, though. Why do you think I learned sword swallowing?"

But Sungha obliged, standing up to his full height and straightening out his clothes. For her he should look at least a bit dignified, after all. The promise of another prick of pain made him straighten his back, his chin lifting to proper posture. "You promise?"

@❃ bang sungha Once more, Riah found herself taken aback by Sungha's antics. She anticipated his reaction—maybe a questioning glance or even a hint of irritation at the unexpected contact. Yet, as he pivoted around, his eyes sparked with recognition and what seemed to be awe, causing the countess to smile even broader.

"Tigress" he exclaimed, and Riah couldn't help but chuckle, remembering how she had failed to share her name with him two years ago. She was pleased that at least her nickname had stuck. However, her eyes widened as he knelt before her, looking up with an expression of reverence. It was unexpected, but not unwelcome. This gesture hinted at a depth of respect and perhaps adoraion that touched her, igniting a mix of surprise and twisted warmth within the countess.

Although she was beloved in her household and perhaps feared by suitors in the social circle, Riah has never had someone get down on their knees and look up to her as if she was the sun. Sungha was indeed unique... and interesting. He could either be a wild flower waiting to be picked or a tiger pretending to be tamed as he waited for an opportunity to bite back.

"And here I thought I'd never see you again, Tiger... Sungha," she uttered, his name rolling off her tongue effortlessly as she looked down at him. Luckily, there were few others in the pathway they occupied, but those present halted in their tracks to witness the unfolding scene. Sungha's laughter shattered the tranquil atmosphere of the promenade. To Riah, it was a melodic sound, laced with a hint of madness that somehow added to its allure.

The countess gracefully leaned down, her knees bending slightly as she cupped the side of his face with one hand while she listened to his request. An amused smile played across her face, her eyes alight with curiosity and excitement once more. Her hand slid down to hold his chin between her thumb and index finger, as if she were appraising fine merchandise, gently turning his face from side to side. In truth, there was no necessity; Riah simply desired a closer look at him.

"Do you want to be cut up again?" She tilts her head to the side in amusement.

"Perhaps a matching scar on your other palm, so you can truly never forget me." It was said in jest, but Riah would have been more than willing to oblige. After all, he was the only one capable of entertaining her these days. His sudden reappearance in her life had already brought her immense joy; perhaps he deserved a reward. She placed her hands on his broad shoulders, patting them as if encouraging a pet to stand up.

"Now stand up, you would not want to frighten these good people." She says, looking around at the spectators. Surely she would be the subject of such rumors again. But what was new, she's been the talk of the ton ever since her failed engagement. What's another rumor to add to the pile.

"Walk with me, maybe I'll cut you in the end if you indulge me." The countess offers, taking a step back. Awaiting Sungha's response. Times like this is when she was glad that she always brought her dagger with her. Always neatly concealed in her jeogori.

@✿ seol riah Sungha's life was predictably unpredictable. He did the same things, but always in different places. Sometimes he got in trouble and had to hide away for a few weeks until commotion died down or investigators had something better to do. Most days he accompanied his siblings out and about. If he was really bored he would go perform. Some of the nobles had even heard of him and would request him to perform at their silly little banquets.

Sungha always did so, but yangbans always put a strange taste in his mouth. His first kill, after all, had been the foreman for a yangban family. He could still see his father's face contorting in pain when he was hit by the foreman's cane. Then, moments later, the bulging of the foreman's eyes as Sungha shoved a chisel through his throat. The sudden memory made Sungha laugh, the sound harsh in the quiet of the field, cutting through the stillness of the day. He put a hand over his mouth, eyes going wide as he remembered how the blood came out in spurts to the beat of the dying man's heart. Oh, what a lovely memory. Though he had to run away after that. Couldn't be helped. Sungha wasn't even sure how he was still alive sometimes. He had gotten in plenty of trouble for his rather...interesting tastes and hobbies.

Artists and performers lead strange lives, after all. There was a strange undercurrent of the job, an unspoken understanding that performers were there to show their art, but also they should extend their services to the bedroom. It was more common for women, but Sungha had his fair share of patrons who had requested he visit their rooms privately after as well. Many of them were interested in Sungha's knives, and who was he to deny them?

Though...none of them would ever be so lovely as his little tiger. Sungha often ran his thumb across the scar on his palm. He refused to use that hand for any further tricks, not wanting the scar to be marred. It was his special memory. Sometimes he wondered where she was. If she was out devouring some unfortunate bird. He hoped so.

Sungha continued on his walk, his hand once more finding the other to trace across the pretty scar. He wondered what they would be eating for dinner tonight. Perhaps Junha had brought in some good money--he usually did these days. Before his thoughts could delve deeper, he felt a tap on his shoulder.

Sungha paused, his head cocking to the side in an animalistic fashion. Oh, this could be fun! He grinned as he turned to see what little woodpecker was tapping on him, and his eyes widened as he beheld his little tigress. What luck! What joy! Perhaps gods were real, and they were smiling upon him!

"Tigress!" he exclaimed, immediately dropping down onto his knees in front of her, head tilted up as he regarded her with awe. "My, my...how I thought I would never see you again. Have you come to cut me up some more?" He let out a laugh, the sound slightly mad. It was hard to tell if he was joking or not. "Please say yes, pretty tiger lily."

@❃ bang sungha [ Late October 1863 ]

After the dissolution of Riah’s first arranged betrothal, she found herself mired in a seemingly endless state of languor. It was in these quiet, idle moments that her thoughts inevitably turned to the intriguing man she had encountered back home in Gangneung two years prior. No one else had left such an indelible mark on her life since, and she had resigned herself to the belief that they would never cross paths again. After all, the countess rarely associated with individuals outside her social sphere. Yet, the renewed constraints imposed by her grandfather rendered her already bleak existence more unbearable. These days, her sole diversions comprised swordsmanship, archery practice, and the occasional permitted promenade.

“Find him. His name is Bang Sungha.”

She recalls instructing her servants to locate a man—a street performer skilled in sword dances and magic tricks. Armed with only a name and a vague description, her servants returned empty-handed week after week, much to the countess's mounting frustration. She was determined to reconnect with him. Why? Well, why not? Riah simply desired to see him again, to discover if he remained as intriguingly captivating as he had been two years prior.

As the search continued fruitlessly, Riah implored her servants to enlist more aid, her patience wearing thin with each passing day. Today, she wandered aimlessly along the familiar pathways of the promenade. Autumn was gradually encroaching upon Hanseong, painting the foliage around her in vibrant shades of yellow and orange. It was a stark contrast, almost reminiscent of how a stranger had once brought vividness to her dulled world.

“I wonder if his antics eventually brought him to the execution block. It would be a shame.”

She sighs, studying her nails as she continues her walk. The countess’ lady in waiting walked with her but was at a distance because she preferred to be alone while she was deep in thought.

Then, as if by fate's design, the very man of her thoughts materialized before her eyes. Riah looked up ahead and spotted his familiar, imposing stature and striking face. How could one forget a visage so captivating? Before she could announce her presence, he turned around.

This was precisely why she had been so determined to find him. A broad smile graced the countess's visage, and she deftly gathered her chima with both hands, lifting it slightly to ensure she could walk swiftly yet gracefully within the bounds of propriety, especially in this public setting where eyes remained fixed upon her, particularly after the recent scandal involving her former betrothed. Drawing nearer, she observed that the man—Bang Sungha—possessed an almost regal air. With the appropriate attire, he could easily pass for a yangban.
Yet he seemed slightly off-kilter, much like she felt herself to be.

Excitement coursed through Riah’s veins as she approached him.

Riah cleared and tapped the man's shoulder, maintaining her smile as she eagerly anticipated their reunion. Would he remember her? Or was she merely one of the countless witnesses to his magic tricks? She hoped that, like the scar she had left on his palm, her memory had also been etched into the deep recesses of his mind.

@❃ seo jung Upon hearing Jung's words, Hyeongwon could only manage a gentle smile. The ache in his heart had finally subsided whenever he gazed upon her. He found it impossible to retain any bitterness towards someone he had once cherished deeply. The Marquess appeared rather foolish for persisting in seeking scorn over a matter long past.

"As a matter of truth, the events that unfolded between us inflicted deep wounds upon me, which regrettably led me to inadvertently inflict pain upon others as well. Therefore, I cannot claim complete innocence," he admitted softly, his words lingering in the air like a gentle breeze as they strolled across the graceful arch of a bridge, overlooking the serene expanse of a tranquil lake below. Hyeongwon halted beside her, pausing in the midst of the bridge's span. The marquess leaned against the railing, his arms draped casually over it, his gaze fixed on the picturesque scene unfolding below—the lively figures meandering amidst the blossoming blooms that adorned the pathway of the promenade.

"You must have carried a burden of guilt with everything that unfolded, especially with my absence in Sook soon after," Hyeongwon began gently, turning his head to meet Jung's gaze with sincerity in his eyes. "But you need not carry that weight any longer, Jung. I forgive you, and I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me as well."

He paused, the soft sounds of the surroundings enveloping them on the tranquil bridge. "You deserve someone who cherishes you unconditionally, someone who won't seek retribution simply because they were once hurt by you. I genuinely hope you find that person."

Reflecting on the past, Hyeongwon acknowledged how, perhaps a year ago, imagining Jung with another man would have caused a pang of jealousy or longing. The thought of her laughing joyfully or simply sharing time with someone else might have troubled him deeply. Yet now, as he regarded her once more, he realized a profound sense of readiness to release all grievances from their shared history.

@❀ yoo hyunsik “Aecha?”
The sudden utterance of her name was but a whisper on the wind. It wasn’t loud but still just audible enough that she had almost lost her balance, wobbling unsteadily for a bit longer than was comfortable before she regained her footing on the thin wooden pole. Once comfortable again she spun around, an act far more graceful than the tumble she had almost taken. Her new sheath clattered a little against her leg from the movement, the only sound but the wind to fill the space between them.

Perhaps she had overestimated her ability to recognize faces from her past. Even now staring at him she could not for sure place it all, but certain features definitely fit the bill to a tee. A small smile slowly spread on her lips. “Heavens be damned, it is true,” she muttered, voice filled with an auditory disbelief. He was still around after all these years. And looking quite well from what she could see.

With the practiced perfectionism of a namsadang member, Aecha hopped off the fencepost. Her feet barely made any sound as they found themselves back on solid ground, her chin lifted with the confidence of a woman way above her own station. Her hands found purchase upon her waist, one resting by her hip, the other resting on the hilt of her sword, two fingers gently tapping against the pommel. “Yoo Hyunsik,” she spoke his name with an almost nostalgic revelry, the smile never fading from her lips.

“How long has it been now?” She knew the answer, but it felt the only appropriate question to start of their talk. If there even was to be a talk. He seemed to have walked with a goal in mind, passing her without raising neither suspicion nor curiosity. To think she had actually found him. “You’re certainly taller than I remember,” Aecha added with a chuckle. “Or have I grown shorter?”

@❃ ya aecha Ever since Hyunsik had started training in his teenage years his life slowly had progressively started to get more and more busy. He already had a lot of responsibilities on his shoulders being the only and eldest son of the Yoo family, but it progressively built up. A natural sign of aging. Not being able to hang out with his friends as much, adventure or even just enjoy the days passing by as much as he used to.

Since joining the military it seemed things had only sped up for the male from there. However walking down the familiar path of his childhood, he couldn’t help but allow himself to reminisce in the memories. There were so many things that the male had missed, when times were simpler he thought. When he once thought that being an adult was such an aspiring thing to be. Oh, the foolish ideation from his childhood.

Hyunsik was now heading towards a generals house, someone his father had worked closely with in the past, and had requested to meet with Hyunsik to discuss some work. The route to the home was all too familiar to him, that he had allowed his feet to mindless drag him.

Perhaps it was his brain that stopped working, or his feet had been glued to the ground, he wasn’t sure. Feeling like he had seen a ghost from the past, he turned back. “Aecha?” The name slipped from his mouth all too easily as a whisper. He hadn’t even turned back to see if what he saw was true, perhaps the face he saw was all too similar.