⁝ baek estate.

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@✿ baek junwoo His dark, serious gazes enveloped her like a shadow out of the light out of her heart. She shivered, frightened suddenly. He was so handsome... so devilishly handsome... and yet write now, as those charming lips curved into a smirk all Yeoreum wanted to do was cry. He could feel the way he felt towards her. The disdain hung heavy in the air, seeping out of his pores like a toxic gas. She couldn't breathe. That charming smirk she loved to swoon about now felt like a dagger carving at her skin. More tears stung her eyes. She didn't even really need to hear his reasoning to understand that this was definitely *not* the love story she had hoped it would be. How wrong she had been. And yet, what had she done to deserve to be looked at like that? Like someone... unworthy, laughable, pathetic. She wasn't pathetic. She wasn't. She was a good girl. Her lips quivered and she in her lower lip quickly to suppress the tremors.

*Hicc* Fat tears streamed down her cheeks. Junwoo glared at her mercilessly and Yeoreum looked back, her own soft eyes flooded with emotional pain. *Hicc* She didn't look away nor feel the urge to. She met his disdain head-on and... nodded meekly. *Hicc* More tears rolled down her pearl skin. His answer was detailed, specific, and logical. She understood. He didn't think she was strong enough to be a duchess. He was thinking of his clan. It hurt, being rejected. It added another layer of a rather strange kind of pain to understand the rejection. And yet, she was also... proud? He had considered her, at least. He'd thought about it. At least for a second, after all. Her juvenile heart was falling apart but she understood. *Hicc* He was so admirable, so cool, even when rejecting her. Well, him throwing her treats to the ground had been very rude, but this was... it made her heart skip a bit even as it broke. He was so cool.

Yeoreum breathed out shakily and wiped her tears away with a handkerchief from her sleeve. "Well.", she said, trying to sound level and calm but her voice was squeaky and timid. "Alright. I understand." *Hicc* "But you... you... you shouldn't waste food!" Yeoreum had no idea what she was saying. It was a desperate attempt to appear a bit less stupid, to save face and what was left of her pride. This was Yeoreum holding herself together like a champion. The moment she was in the privacy of her own home she was going to sob till the Sun went down.

@❁ hong yeoreum junwoo's steps came to an abrupt halt at the sudden onset of question marks punctuating the air. he closed his eyes briefly, taking a moment to collect himself, before inhaling deeply and turning to face the teary-eyed girl. despite the turmoil stirring within him, he maintained his stoic demeanor, a faint smirk tugging at the corners of his lips as he observed the tears glistening in her eyes.

tears.

to junwoo, they were a sign of weakness, a display of vulnerability that he found utterly disdainful. how could someone aspire to be the duchess, the matriarch of their household, if they crumbled so easily in the face of rejection? it was inconceivable to him, and he felt a surge of contempt towards the girl before him.

"i have neither reason nor excuse to answer your question," junwoo responded coolly, his voice carrying a hint of disdain. "but judging from your appearance and your current demeanor, it seems you possess a certain weakness that does not align with my tastes, nor with the qualities i seek in a future duchess." junwoo's gaze bore into hers with an intensity that seemed to strip away any pretense of innocence or vulnerability and he had no intention of compromising his standards for anyone.

@✿ baek yunseo junwoo's keen eyes never failed to catch the glimpse of his younger brother's shadowy figure lingering behind the door. with a polite excuse to his father, duke baek, he stepped out, purposefully striding towards his chamber, his senses heightened by the distinct feeling of being followed, yunseo's stealthy presence trailing closely behind. as he reached the sanctum of his quarters, junwoo paused, taking a moment to collect his thoughts with a heavy sigh.

the question lingered in his mind like a persistent whisper: had yunseo overheard their earlier conversation? the possibility gnawed at him, but he found solace in the notion that if his brother had indeed eavesdropped, it was likely in service of safeguarding their younger sister, doah. junwoo's commitment to protecting his family was unwavering, and he would not hesitate to eliminate any threat to their safety and well-being.

entering the dimly lit chamber, junwoo's presence filled the space with an aura of authority and steely resolve. with a deliberate clearing of his throat, he called out to his brother, his voice carrying a weight of expectation and unspoken tension. "if you possess the courage of a true man, then step forth and face me without delay," he declared, his tone cold and stoic. "unless, of course, cowardice has claimed your spirit. speak now, yunseo. what is it that you seek?"

@✿ baek yejun junwoo couldn't help but smirk at his younger brother's remarks, his confidence bolstered by his status as the elder sibling and the expectation that he would always know best. "since when do i bother about it?" he retorted, his voice laced with a hint of amusement. "perhaps since i sent out that threat towards that low-class girl, warning her to stay away from you, i've felt a twinge of concern."

as yejun's words continued to flow, junwoo's amusement turned to annoyance. he couldn't understand why his brother couldn't see things from his perspective. "being father's good boy is my achievement, one that i worked hard to attain," junwoo asserted, his tone firm. "if you view it in that light, then you have no right to cross the boundaries between us as yangban and those from lower classes. while i may entertain the idea for my own purposes, allowing her to become a part of our family is out of the question. our father would never permit it, and as the eldest, it's my duty to protect our family's honor and pride."

junwoo's irritation grew as he pondered why yejun couldn't simply follow the example set by their youngest sibling. "why can't you be more like our youngest brother?" he questioned, a note of exasperation creeping into his voice. "at least he understands the importance of maintaining our status and reputation."

with a scoff, junwoo delivered his ultimatum, his tone tinged with a cold edge. "listen to me and end your relationship with her, or else—i'll be the one to put an end to her." his words hung in the air, a stark warning of the consequences should yejun choose to defy him.

@✿ baek junwoo The 14-year old girl stood in shock, her hands parted as if she was still holding the basket when in fact her one true love had knocked it to the floor. He hadn't even properly looked at it. He hadn't even picked up one of the sweets to examine it. And now the treats that Yeoreum had painstakingly made with the kitchen staff, giggling the whole time about how handsome Junwoo was, were lying in the dirt. Unedible. Discarded. Much like how Yeoreum felt right now. Yes, she felt like a discarded treat. Yeoreum looked at him in shock, her chest heaving as she tried to breathe to remain calm. Ah, but it was so hard. His words sliced her heart in two and even worse all the hours she had spent dreaming up their happy future together. This was not how this was supposed to go. 'I have no interest in you'. His words echoed in her mind. But they were supposed to get married? He was supposed to be her one true love? They were supposed to be happy together forever? He was supposed to accept the sweets with a happy smile and tell her he liked her too? 'I have no interest in you'. Yeoreum, frozen in place, breathed in and out shakily, a whimper mixed into the breath as her eyes began to water.

"M-m-more important matters-", she stuttered, her large eyes now drowning in tears but they had not spilled down her cheeks yet. More important matters than her love? What was more important than love? Nothing. Love was everything. This was supposed to be everything. Why- why... why weren't things going right? Junwoo was looking at her so coldly and it felt like the world around her was collapsing. This giant, beautiful world in her mind had been split in two by his words like a piece of firewood. It lay in shambles, splinters scattered everywhere. Her dream was on fire and Yeoreum was not ready to accept it. Why didn't he like her? Yeoreum was great. Her parents always said so. She was pretty and cute and well-mannered. What was not to like? It just didn't make sense. Her voice a mere whimper she couldn't help but ask: "B-but why-?" Ah, she would regret asking that question.

@❁ hong yeoreum as the eldest heir of the prestigious baek family, junwoo need to practiced his swordplay with disciplined focus under the watchful eye of his master. every movement was precise, every strike calculated, as he honed his skills with unwavering determination.

as the sun dipped low on the horizon, casting long shadows across the training grounds, junwoo sheathed his sword with a satisfied nod, signaling the end of his practice session. his master offered a nod of approval before retreating to the sidelines, leaving junwoo to bask in the solitude of his thoughts.

however, his moment of solitude was interrupted by the soft footsteps of a girl approaching him. she carried a woven basket filled with an array of sweets, her eyes alight with anticipation as she approached junwoo with a timid smile.

junwoo's stoic facade remained unchanged, his expression cold and impassive as she stood before him, he noticed her cheeks flushed with nervous excitement and listened to her stammered confession, somehow his gaze flickering briefly to the basket of sweets she offered before returning to her face.

"I don't like sweets,"

he stated bluntly, his voice devoid of warmth or sympathy. with a dismissive gesture, he pushed the basket away, watching impassively as it fell to the ground, the contents spilling out onto the dirt.

"and I have no interest in you,"

he added coldly, his tone cutting through the air like a knife. "now, if you'll excuse me, I have more important matters to attend to."

@✿ baek junwoo [ September 3rd, 1859 at the Baek Estate ]

Today was the day. For the 5th time this month, she had convinced her family to pay a visit to the Baek estate and for the 5th time the time 'happened' to align with when the eldest son of the Baek clan had his training. Yeoreum loved watching him train. The concentration on his face, the effort that he put into each ... He looked strong and handsome, dashing even. Baek Junwoo was no prince but to a 14-year old Yeoreum who had only just been introduced to society, he might as well have been a real prince. He was tall, well-built and the most likely heir to the Baek clan. Most importantly, he was very handsome. Yeoreum sat on a bench at the side, watching with hearts in her eyes. To all the adults who cared to pay some attention, her immature affections for the Yangban teen were clear as day. Her own parents didn't think much of it. She was young, she would grow out of it, they said, and if she didn't and by some miracle Baek Junwoo returned her affections, he was a good match. That being said, they strongly doubted that he would even consider her and often poked fun at her for going to watch the older boy sweat under the Sun. That usually ended with Yeoreum storming off in tears and her mother following to console her with hugs and sweet treats. Yeoreum didn't care what her family thought. She was going to confess. And why wouldn't he like her? She was a Yangban too, and pretty. He would definitely like her. Definitely. Then they'd get married and live happily ever after.

The training session was coming to an end and Yeoreum was getting increasingly nervous. Her heart was beating rapidly and so loudly she was afraid Junwoo might hear. Her hands felt clammy and she felt dizzy. The Sun was strong today and she had been sitting outside for some time now, ogli- watching Junwoo. He was so handsome... Yeoreum looked down into her lap, fingers tightening around a small basket she held that was filled with sweets. She had learned how to make them for him. Well, the kitchen staff has helped a little but she had more or less made them herself. Surely he'd like them. She could imagine it now, his smile as he received the basket. The warmth in his gaze as she confessed and he then responded that he felt the same way... Yeoreum giggled softly in delight, her mind reeling with excitement and stood up. It was time. The girl took a deep breath and approached Junwoo, the boy whom she'd been watching but never been able to say more than two words to. It didn't matter. True love didn't need conversation, and this was definitely true love.

She stopped in front of him, blocking his way from leaving, large eyes peering up at him with nervous delight. The instructor eyed the two of them but didn't say anything. He was tactful and quietly walked away. "J-Junwoo" Yeoreum's voice cracked and her cheeks flooded red out of embarrassment. "Junwoo... I... I made these for you." She pushed the small basked against his chest with a bashful smile. "I like you." Her heart was racing now. It had to be any second now that he'd draw her into a hug and whisper that he liked her to. Oh, no, he couldn't hug her with the basket. Then he would just smile at her and say he liked her to. Any second now.

@✿ baek junwoo in the hushed stillness of the night, yunseo succumbed to the comforting embrace of slumber within the confines of his chamber. the gentle tendrils of evening air caressed his skin, weaving whispers of tranquility as he drifted into the realm of dreams. amidst the tapestry of his memories, he wandered through the corridors of childhood, the echoes of sibling laughter a sweet melody echoing in the recesses of his mind. yet, an unsettling absence gnawed at him - junwoo, his elder brother, was nowhere to be found amidst the joyous reverie. determined to unravel his whereabouts, he embarked on a quest through the paths of their estate, guided by an unspoken urgency tugging at his soul. his footsteps echoed softly against the cobblestones, each stride bringing him closer to the mysterious building that loomed before him. with trepidation mingled with curiosity, he crossed the threshold into the unknown, the whispers of unseen entities beckoning him deeper into the abyss.

as he ventured further inside, a tableau of horror unfolded before his wide eyes - junwoo, his expression twisted in a mask of fury, stood over a prone figure, a glint of malevolence glimmering off the blade clutched tightly in his grasp. crimson rivulets cascaded from the weapon, painting grotesque patterns upon the floor, as yunseo recoiled in shock and disbelief. every instinct screamed for flight, yet each attempt to flee seemed futile, the oppressive walls of the building closing in around him like a vice. as junwoo's gaze bore into him with an intensity that sent shivers down his spine, his heart hammered against his ribcage, threatening to burst from the confines of his chest.

with a sudden gasp, he tore himself from the clutches of the nightmare that had ensnared him, his body drenched in a cold sweat as he struggled to catch his breath in the darkness. the tendrils of fear coiled around him like a suffocating shroud, refusing to release their grip as he fought to regain his composure in the wake of the harrowing ordeal. determined to dispel the lingering shadows of terror that threatened to consume him, he rose from his bed and navigated the dimly lit corridors of their home with cautious determination. however, as he made his way towards the kitchen to quench his parched throat, the flickering glow emanating from his father's office caught his attention, casting long, ominous shadows along the walls. as his curiosity piqued, he approached the door with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension, leaning in closer to catch the hushed voices that seeped through the cracks - the solemn tones of his father intermingling with the subdued murmurs of his brother. anxious and unsettled, he listened intently, his heart heavy with the weight of secrets that were going to hang thick in the air, waiting to be unveiled in the dead of the night.

@✿ baek junwoo Junwoo's words hung heavy in the courtyard, a palpable tension thickening the air between the two brothers. Yejun, standing before him, felt the weight of his brother's reproach like a heavy chain around his neck. His eyes met Junwoo's icy gaze, the familiar warmth now replaced by a chilling detachment that sent a shiver down his spine. The accusation in Junwoo's tone cut deep, slicing through the bonds of brotherhood with ruthless precision.
"Since when do you bother with it?" Yejun replied, his voice tinged with defiance and stubbornness. "Don't speak about neglect when you start it first. The moment you're so obsessed with being daddy's good boy, you no longer have no right to speak about it."
The clatter of the sword hitting the ground echoed in the courtyard, a stark reminder of the rift that had grown between them. Now, he wondered what unpleasant things his brother had heard. He believed it would be just some nonsense that Junwoo felt wasn't following to what he or his father wished for. Yejun wouldn't be surprised about it anymore.
"I don't think I have anything to tell you. We never see eye to eye in anything, nowadays. why bother?"
Yejun was going to leave but the mention of their father stopped him in his track and he decided to listen some more. He wasn't stupid on what his brother silently tell him. The threat he heard it very clearly even when it wasn't blatantly uttered. A true Baek style. A way trying to threat or hurt someone in the dark.
The mention of the gisaeng, Eun, Yejun felt a surge of defiance rise within him, a stubborn refusal to let go of the one thing that brought him solace in a world filled with uncertainty. Junwoo was getting too close and he could feel cold sweat running down his back. The images of Eun getting hurt because of him sent fear to him. If his father knew about it, he didn't know what would happen to Eun. His safety would always come second to Eun's.
"You sound pretty interested in any kind of relationships I have from the way you're speaking, brother." He sounded pretty composed compared to what he was feeling inside. "Since when do you bother me going out and having fun?" He created a facade hoping to mask the truth about his love.
At that moment, Yejun knew that the road ahead would be fraught with challenges. But in the face of his brother and father's disdain, he found a resolve to fight for what he believed in, even if it meant standing alone against the tide of opposition.

@✿ baek yejun Junwoo's tone grew colder as he addressed his brother. "Can't I even see you even for a while?" he remarked, his voice lacking its usual warmth, replaced instead by a distant detachment. "You've been so busy with your stuff that I think you've neglected me as your older brother, you know."

As Yejun stood before him, Junwoo's gaze remained icy, his words cutting through the tension like a sharpened blade. "I heard some unpleasant things around," he stated bluntly, his indifference palpable. "Do you want to tell me first or should I confront you about it?"

With deliberate nonchalance, Junwoo set his sword down, the clatter echoing in the courtyard like a finality. He watched Yejun with a detached gaze, the distance between them widening with each passing moment.

"You're fortunate that the news hasn't reached our father yet," Junwoo's voice dripped with disdain, his words laced with a thinly veiled threat. "Because if it has reached his ears, you won't be allowed to go out anymore."

His indifference turned to scorn as he continued, "I heard she's a gisaeng too." Junwoo's tone grew colder still as he delivered his final warning, his words devoid of any semblance of brotherly affection. "Let me remind you I am not interested in any relationships you have right now," he sneered. "But I just want to let you know, it won't do any good later. So you better be prepared for any consequences if you love that girl so much. Perhaps, breaking up is the only way to ensure the girl's safety, you know."

@✿ baek junwoo Yejun, weary from a day immersed in the pursuit of knowledge, approached the imposing wooden doors that guarded the entrance to his familial abode. As he stepped into the courtyard, the familiar crunch of gravel beneath his worn shoes echoed in the silence. Suddenly, the tranquil ambiance was shattered by the familiar voice that he had known for a long time but yet felt like a stranger to him.
He stopped in his steps, caught in the uncomfortable spotlight of his brother's scrutiny, searched for a response. The courtyard, once a haven of familial warmth, now bore witness to the ghosts of unresolved conflicts. Memories, long buried, resurfaced like shadows in the moonlight.
As the brothers stood face to face, the courtyard seemed to hold its breath, awaiting resolution or further divergence. He let out a sigh. He hated confrontation like this. At this moment, he didn’t even try to hide his disappointment towards his brother. It was clear as day in his eyes. His brother who used to be his role model, had just turned into the exact replica of his father. The warmth that his brother once had, turned into this coldness that resembled his father. That was also why he always tried his best, not to let his sister lose her warmth and smile because somehow this house just had the effect to do that.
“what can I do for you, brother?”
his voice turned as cold, just like his gaze as he no longer felt the need to entertain his older brother when the latter couldn’t even start a decent conversation in between them.

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@✿ ryu minho “Be caref–” Doah couldn’t resist chuckling. It had dawned on her that she had never disclosed to Minho that she always had at least one knife or blade on her at all times for her own protection when heading outside. The beloved daughter of the Baek clan followed his gaze, amused at it landing on her knife before she landed in his eyes. The sunrise was doing nothing but favors for his looks, and she only hoped that she was the same in her modest servant disguise. Doah wasn’t too proud to admit to herself that she had always seen him this way, anyways.

Quietly tucking her knife back in her left sleeve compartment with two fingers, she turned to him with an identical smile. It was a different kind of comfort being in Minho’s arms. She had only experienced this thrice in her life: the forest, the gardens, the promenade. It had been something so rare but every single time she experienced it, she wouldn’t allow her memory of it to fade. “Good morning, my lord.” Doah never wanted to leave his embrace ever again.

“I fear no proper assassin would have the heart to lay a hand on a high-ranking soldier that looks like you, Ryu Minho.” she jested, dropping her voice to a whisper when she said his name. She had almost forgotten they were technically still in the Estate.

“We must make haste, Doah; there are things I must tell you. Important things."

The feeling of something disastrous coming took over as Doah fully digested the sight of Minho in uniform. She had seen him in an older version of it in their youth, but she was more accustomed to seeing him in handsome formal garb. This sight had done nothing to dampen his beauty, but it was a reminder that he was still in a job that required definite combat. Still, the two of them have probably gone through worse but her memory of her father being in distress still worried her.

“What is it, Minho? Your letter seemed urgent.” her words were laced with worry and she couldn’t seem to remove her left hand from gripping the fabric of his sleeve. Her hand flew to her necklace, always hidden underneath fabric like normal. The only difference this time was that finally someone knew the true context of it. All her senses were heightened at his serious tone, she could feel the cold winter air pricking her neck, her own heartbeat and breathing, and the gift pouch wiggling in her hidden pocket left a sensation by her leg as well.

@✿ baek doah A sinking feeling invaded his chest, saturating his entire being. What if he failed to see her today? What if the Duke of Naju, in some clandestine maneuver, intercepted their letters, forbidding this anticipated rendezvous? In these critical moments, he wished fervently that his imagination wouldn't run amok. The man who once cared little about his return from war now harbored a desperate desire to gaze upon the face of his beloved before departing.

"Beloved?" The very notion stirred a peculiar sensation in his chest—ticklish, weightless. It seemed to pull and tug at his heart, directing it toward Doah. Mixed with the trenchant anxiety in his mind, it was an indescribable feeling. He used to scoff at the admiration-laden letters and bashful glances from ladies, but perhaps this feeling was his karmic reckoning.

To be clear, this overwhelming emotion, persisting for a lifetime, had become his karma. To be so hopelessly in love that one becomes entranced by their very presence—much like his reaction to seeing her step out from the window of her chambers.

"Be caref-" he calls out, arms reaching to catch her, wrapping around her waist, hoisting her away from imminent danger. His gaze shifts to the blade protruding from the sleeve of her left arm, then to her face.

She was exquisite, as luminous as the moon and the sun emerging from the clouds. The sunrise added an ethereal glow to her presence; the light reflected from her clear, beautiful eyes was magnetic. Seeing her under the morning light made Minho realize one thing.

He wanted to grow old with Doah; that meant surviving this war.

“Good morning, my l… lady," he says softly, a gentle smile upon his lips as he holds onto her, despite having helped her escape danger. “If someone were to witness us right now, they might presume an assassin dressed as a servant was here to claim the bounty on a high-ranking soldier, wouldn't they?" he says, taking hold of her left arm with a chuckle, noting both their attire.

Finally settling her down, he offers his arm to her, his voice taking on a serious tone, “We must make haste, Doah; there are things I must tell you. Important things."

@✿ ryu minho Rarely did Doah feel serious anxiety, the type that would feel almost like a choking hand around her neck. Her father had brought about a different type. The thought of being punished, Doah would feel warmth in her chest and arms. A typical feeling whenever she made a mistake that her father may punish her for. Today’s planned rendezvous seemed like the best example of a mistake earning Doah a punch or a slice, but there was a different kind of anxiety overtaking her. It was both exciting and exhausting, but all she knew was that it was positive she was seeing Ryu Minho again. That was good, but her not knowing what he urgently wanted to tell her was consuming her thoughts.

She wasn’t blissfully unaware of the tension in the nation. Passing by her father’s quarters coincidentally, he was yelling at his staff and advisors in a tone of rage and panic. As usual, she never listened to what he was saying unless it was beneficial to her. This tone she could hear Duke Baek carry sounded almost like fear. Naturally, Doah was unsettled, but carried on.

Her and Minho were always somewhat cautious, and extremely cautious for today since he was basically risking his life meeting her in secret. Doah warned her closest maidservants, telling three of them to keep perimeter by her section of the house so none of her father’s men would have a chance to pass by. One was stationed a while away from Doah’s door, ready to alert the Lady of the Baek house when it was almost sunrise. That didn’t matter much, Doah had not slept a wink for the whole night. One would think she was in distress, but she was wide awake from delight. She wore her usual staff disguise but did her makeup beautifully. The fear of the unknown scared her, but if this was another time she’d see her soldier, she’d move past the fear and look her best.

The colors of the sky, purple and orange and soft yellows, were leaking in from the edges of her walls. Doah, all done up and pretty while still donning a servant’s attire, was sitting a few feet from her window. The hairpin Minho gifted her was tucked into her hair, visibly shining and bringing out the same light in her eyes. Her hand was in its typical position during tense times: gripping the Ryu family ring around her neck.

“Where is–” she let out a squeak, immediately shocked as her own whispered thought was interrupted by a pebble flying through the hanji paper that lined her window. She did her best trying to hold back a snort, remembering her silly suggestion to him. Underestimating Minho was something she’d rarely do, but she never expected the mild property damage. Almost coughing into her hand while holding back laughter, Doah got up from her seat to pick up the small pouch she had ready. It carried the gift she had ready for Minho, something very few people knew about. Afterwards, she grabbed the pebble that punctured a hole into her window and grinned.

One last review of herself. Hair? Beautiful. Hairpin? Lovely. Face and clothing? The usual for escape. Her knife? Tucked in her sleeve pocket, a small section peeking out. Minho’s ring? As present as it has been for the last 10 years.

With very little hesitation but a lot of clumsiness, rare for Doah, she quickly but quietly slid open her window. She did not care much for boundaries at that moment as excitement overtook her. Her steps were uneven as she stumbled out of her window. Her mistake done in excitement (and mild anxiety) landed her half in Minho’s arms for support. Her right foot’s sock was caught in the window frame but she held onto Minho for dear life. It was an awkward half-hug position, but she managed to have the reflexes to catch the knife slipping out of the left sleeve of her escaping attire.

For a moment she had forgotten her worries and the urgency of Minho’s letter to her. She was just happy to see his face again, even while her foot was stuck and her knife almost dropping. Her greeting wasn’t even a hello, it was just his name in her softest, happiest voice, and her expression matched her voice’s tone.

“Minho!”

@✿ baek yejun the courtyard embraced the hushed ambiance of the baek estate, the whispering leaves bearing witness to junwoo's intricate swordplay. each fluid movement seemed a dance with the spirits of the past, the gleam of the blade catching sunlight in a mesmerizing display.

junwoo's concentration was unwavering until a subtle awareness stirred within him, as he noticed it was yejun, the second eldest of the baek siblings, traversing the cobbled path nearby.

a deliberate pause in junwoo's practiced motions marked the inception of a moment suspended in time. his gaze, sharp as the blade he wielded, locked onto yejun's figure. without a spoken word, junwoo's call cut through the stillness, a name reverberating through the courtyard like an ancient command. "baek yejun, halt your steps."

@✿ baek doah Yejun’s lips formed a thin line as he pretended to ponder on her words. “That… is something I couldn’t believe. With your rate of smacking, you don’t love at all.” He chuckled and pulled two wooden chair closer welcoming her for a seat in his study.
“Is it really that unseemly? It’s just a mere portrait that shows my appreciation for beauty. Just like when I draw a landscape, my beloved sister. You think too much.” He reasoned, hiding his yearning for Dasom that filled his thoughts every night.
“I think the missing part is less now. I can just go meet her whenever I need to.” Even so, it didn’t exactly help him with his feelings. When he’s alone the longing grew multiple times. If possible, he would love to have Dasom by his side all the time. He brushed his nose with the back of his hand, feeling a bit nervous upon Doah’s questions. He felt the need to convince Doah because his little sister’s approval would mean a lot for him.
Now, there came the more nerve wrecking question. He felt that if couldn’t give the best answer, his sister wouldn’t approve his feelings for Dasom. “Well… she is. Beautiful, kind, talented. Everything seems a lot more beautiful and radiant with her around.” He sighed when it comes to confessing his feelings for her. “It’s just that she’s my best friend and she never look at me that way.”

@✿ baek doah The call to arms seemed almost inevitable. If it weren't foreign forces attempting to invade this nation most called home, it would have been a civil war that the general assembly seemed all too happy with ensuing. To Minho, threats of invasion and political turmoil would have been any regular yet random day during the past few months - he wouldn't pay much mind and act upon his duties as lieutenant general of the Joseon army as well as Jwarang within the Ministry of Defense. Having been a soldier for years by now, this was menial work. Yet - he wished things did not have to come to a cataclysm so soon. For the first time in a while, Ryu Minho had been at peace. Even as the world seemed to be in turmoil around him, he had found solace in writing letters to the lovely young lady of the Baek house.

And now, his peace was being disturbed.

Disturbed by a god forsaken war that he had no choice but take part in because he was a bit too good at this whole soldier ordeal. In a matter of hours he was to set off with his troops towards Hamgyeong, bracing for the possibility of any internal threats before fighting off the external ones. Death was not only a high possibility but also imminent in its proximity – so here he was having hoisted himself past the walls of the Baek estate, concealing himself from the guards present.

The time was around dawn, and the sun was just beginning to rise, as indicated by the velvety haze of violet and orange clouds amongst the skies. The colors blended well with his uniform, of course he had forgone the armour for now - believing it too bulky to move around in – quite noisy as well. Making any noise was out of the cards - the rustling of the beads from his jeollip as he jumped atop the fence had him cursing internally. Not because he would get caught – rather it was the reason why he was here. Baek Doah; if one and one added up then the young lady of the house would be in more trouble than he ever could. Not wanting to risk that, Minho had slipped in from the back of the estate.

Stealth was not his fortè, however the marquess had strategically used every blind spot he could find until he stood in front of the young lady’s window. Or so he hoped.

‘She said I could alert her by throwing a rock at her window, so let me do that.’ He recalls Doah’s letter, and picks up a small pebble from the ground - throwing it towards the windows of her chambers to catch her attention.

@✿ baek yejun “You jest, surely? Of course I love you, orabeoni!” Doah had managed to land another lighter smack on her brother’s shoulder. She was evidently still curious about the woman, she was beautiful, looking unlike anyone in their family or anyone in their circles. It bothered Doah not knowing her, there was a risk of her not even being from the yangban class if this were the case. But she brushed off the thought before it consumed her and changed her expression. She grinned, swatting away Yejun’s hand that gently pinched her cheeks.

Yejun had been staying silent as Doah dropped on him the stream of questions straight from her mind. In retrospect, she should have at least given him a chance to answer the questions one by one, but all in good time she believed. “Just what is running in your mind?” She hadn’t even notice /his/ cough in response to her recent question, because her mind suddenly focused on his retaliation. She forgot that only her female friends really knew of her… mature reading habits, no one in her family knew. And only two of her ladies-in-waiting, the ones near her age who gushed along with Doah at the filthy paragraphs, knew. “Nothing, it’s just unseemly for a man to have a portrait of a woman like this while being unmarried, no?” She thanked her quick wits and convincing tongue for this.

“Dasom?” The young lady couldn’t even retrieve any memories of a Dasom from the marketplace. Though Doah as an older teen and now young adult wrote letters constantly at her discretion, rarely would she purchase her materials in person, but she assumed Dasom had been one of the merchants Doah’s writing hobbies helped financially. “Since you were children, wow… you must…” The younger Baek paused, wondering if she should allow herself to assume Yejun’s feelings that, quoting him, he can’t even say to Dasom himself. “Really miss her.” She silently disliked how it reminded her of her and her childhood friend, Minho.

Eager to cheer him up as she saw his expression drop and his voice soften, she sat down on one of the cushions, patting the one beside it as a signal for Yejun to sit down. “Well, nothing good comes from feelings kept in.” Wow, she was definitely a hypocrite at this moment. “Why don’t you tell me about her? I’m sure as a person she is as lovely as this painting.”

@✿ baek doah “Thank you Doah, this is as lovely as you are!” she tells her one and only friend with a growing feeling of warmth in her chest. The color pink was pretty like Doah was, and it matched her friend’s peach-like presence. Onhui was glad that she was allowed to visit Doah, although she had an inkling that this was most likely only possible due to their fathers’ political alliances in court. Although very much shielded from the dangers and conniving of politics, Onhui was still privy to her families allegiances and standing at court.

“I love how quiet and peaceful your home is.” she smiles as she makes herself comfortable on the cushion opposite Doah. Hers was always bustling and lively… and full of tragedy it seemed. All the deaths that seemed to hover over the Jin’s like an ominous black cloud, and all the unhappiness that fractured their once loving home. “I wonder what kind of home I’ll go to when I get married. Do you ever wonder about these things, Doah?”

Without a sister or mother she was close to, Onhui never really had anyone to talk about these things to. Only Doah, who showed her exciting romance novels and scandalous books that no one else should know she’d seen, would talk to her about topics that her male brothers would never be able to relate to.

@✿ baek junwoo She could not deny that her younger cousin was right, that the prospects of his marriage were none of her concern. However, her hands balled into small fists, gripping onto her chima until her knuckles turned white. She bit at her bottom lip, trying her best to hold in her tongue. But when Junwoo’s cold gaze met hers, she took a deep breath and her shoulders sagged with resignation.

"This is your path to walk, cousin," Jinye began, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "Your decisions and affairs are indeed yours to manage, but don’t mistake my concern for interference. As your cousin, I only came here to voice my wish for your well being."

She couldn't help but think of Junwoo’s parents, Duke Baek and the late Duchess. A somber expression crossed her face as she glanced at the surrounding space they were in. Indeed it has been many years since Jinye came here, but the estate was shrouded in a deafening silence that one can feel the air wrap around their necks. It’s suffocating, different from the times when she visited her cousins in childhood during the days when her aunt was still alive.

Her line of sight remained steady on the garden around them, despite the disappointment etched on her features. "I've seen the toll such responsibilities can take on a person, Junwoo. Your father changed after the passing of your mother. He became a man unrecognizable from those around him, even to his own children. There’s a thin line between conducting one’s responsibility and navigating that path without losing themselves."

She cast one last look at Junwoo, her disappointment drawn with a slight curl of . "I hope you choose a path that won't lead to regret and sorrow." Jinye's resolve remained although she softened her words. "I won't push any further, cousin. "May you find a balance that doesn't demand the sacrifice of yours, Lady Onhui’s, or anyone else’s happiness."

With that, Jinye turned away, leaving him to his unwavering convictions, her footsteps echoing the unspoken words that she chewed between her teeth.

@✿ song jinye junwoo's cold gaze met jinye's fiery eyes, unfazed by her outburst. "this is actually none of your concern, lady song. my decisions are mine alone, and I won't tolerate your interference," he stated icily. "lady onhui should be aware of the circumstances, and I don't need your misplaced sense of righteousness clouding my judgment."

he calmly retrieved the sword from the ground, his composure unwavering. "this alliance secures our family's future, and sacrifices are necessary. I won't let emotions dictate what's best for us." junwoo's tone remained stoic as he continued, "Also my happiness and affairs are mine to manage. don't mistake your opinions for influence, cousin. I suggest you focus on your matters."

junwoo's demeanour remained cold and indifferent, unmoved by jinye's plea. "I won't be swayed by sentimental nonsense. If you can't comprehend the gravity of our family's responsibilities, that's your shortcoming, not mine." he leaned slightly with his voice lowering to a menacing tone. "if you persist in meddling, jinye, I'll have no choice but to name another as the second lady of this house – someone of my choosing, someone who won't question my decisions."

@✿ baek junwoo Jinye understood, but at the same time, she found Junwoo’s decision not aligned with her choice had it been hers to make. Of course, there were matters of the family and matters of the heart. However, she did not like the idea that the two people he would hold in his hands were not the same.

As if a surge of anger had come over her, Jinye gritted her teeth and struck the grip of the sword into her younger cousin's stomach, not to harm him but to forcefully push him back. Her frustration overflowed as she began to lecture him sternly.

"What about Lady Onhui's feelings? She deserves better than being a pawn in some political game. Will she merely be exploited for the benefit of familial connections?" Jinye demanded, her scowl deepening. "What kind of man are you?" Disgusted, she tossed the sword to the ground, crossing her arms defiantly.

Jinye shook her head in disbelief. "Sacrifice? You're sacrificing the happiness of two people for the sake of some alliance. Is that what our family stands for now?" Expressing her frustration, she added, "Responsibilities, family, I get it. But what about your own feelings? What about hers? Can't you see you're causing harm to both of you in the process?"

With a huff of her breath, Jinye took a step back, her gaze hard and unforgiving. "Don't let duty blind you to what truly matters, Junwoo. You're going to regret this."

@✿ song jinye In Junwoo's conflicted mind, the weight of tradition and duty clashed with the desires of his heart. Jinye's understanding gaze and gesture of laying down the sword invited him to bare his soul.

"I appreciate your concern, dear cousin, but my heart feels like a distant echo of the past. happiness, it's a concept I've learned to bury along with my mother. I don't believe I deserve it and there's someone I care for deeply, and protecting her is my priority. " admitted him with a low sigh. "as for marriage, it's a duty I'll fulfil for my father's ambitions. granting him those powers is the only way I can bridge the gap, despite the resentment I carry. it may not align with the desires of my heart, but duty often demands sacrifices, and it's fine."

@✿ baek doah Yejun stared at his beloved little sister with a sheepish smile, definitely knowing that she would to no end with this. His reddening ears and cheeks were the proof of his shyness. Despite the shyness he felt, he was a bit relieved and happy that he had someone to talk to regarding his feelings towards Dasom and his sister was definitely the right person.
He was going to wrap his arm around her shoulder but a smack came to his chest. He coughs a bit, pretended to get hurt and then looked at his sister. “You don’t love me anymore.” He decided to be playful and acted dramatic before chuckling. “It’s your free time then. No wonder you’re here.” He gave her cheeks a light pinch.
When she stepped aside to reveal the painting of Dasom, the sheepishness that was gone for a moment came back to him. However, how much he adored Dasom couldn’t be erased from his eyes. He also understood the curiosity coming from his sister. It’s part of her nature other than her playfulness, especially when their dad wasn’t around.
“Orabeoni, do you have a mistress?”
Upon that question, he shot his sister a playful glare. But when she continued with her interrogation, he just let her ramble because it would be difficult to answer to all of her question when she was too excited questioning him. So, he listed all of her questions in his mind to answer to it later. However, at the last question, it directly made him cough.
“Just what is running in your mind?”
He shook his head and let her scrutinize his work. His crossed his arms behind his back and decided to answer to her questions one by one.
“She’s Dasom. She sells paper in the marketplace. We’re kinda a best friend from we’re kids. Back then, we only exchanged letters until her family settled down in the city that we could meet more often. She’s not my mistress. I can’t even tell her how I feel…”
The last part came in a whisper. There’s a shame he felt for his cowardice. He rubbed the back of his head and smiled wistfully as he stared at the painting.
“So, it’s kinda complicated.”

@✿ baek junwoo As the duel came to an end, Jinye steadied the sword by her side. She could tell from his movements, although precise and skillful, that Junwoo's heart wasn't fully in the spar. The conflict within him resonated with the complex emotions that had played out through each contact of their blades. She heard her cousin's words, his confession hanging in the air like a delicate thread come undone. Her silence was an acknowledgment of the struggles he faced, one she could not fault him for.

The courtyard, once echoing with the clash of swords, now held a moment of understanding, a shared recognition of the challenges they faced individually and as part of their respective families. Jinye raised her sword in a salute, a gesture of respect for the spar and his thoughtful manner. But, she worried for him nonetheless.

"Junwoo," she began, her tone gentle yet firm. "I've known you all your life and I can see the struggle within you." She paused, allowing the sincerity of her words to settle. "Marriage is a significant step and I understand the expectations that come with it, especially for someone like you, bound by tradition and a father who doesn't quite consider his children's hearts."

Jinye's gaze held a depth of understanding as she continued, "but tell me, cousin, what is in your heart? Do you want this marriage, or does it feel like a weight upon your shoulders?" She set the sword down onto the courtyard, an unspoken invitation for openness, a sign of no more barriers. "I won't judge you, Junwoo. Your happiness is important and I want to support you in whatever decision you make, as long as it leaves you no room for regret."

She waited for Junwoo's response, ready to stand by him, whether he chose to follow the path set by tradition or forge a new one that aligned with the desires of his heart.

@✿ song jinye Despite his playful facade, couldn't bring himself to engage fully in the duel with Jinye. The rhythmic dance of their swords mirrored the complex intertwining of their lives, a connection rooted in shared memories and familial bonds. His playful smirk held a touch of restraint, a conscious decision to let his cousin emerge victorious in this symbolic contest.

Jinye's precise and calculated movements, honed through years of military training, met Junwoo's strikes with an unyielding composure. While he possessed the skill to challenge her, a deep-seated respect prevented him from unleashing his full prowess. As their swords clashed and echoed in the courtyard, Junwoo's eyes revealed a mix of understanding and a silent acknowledgment of the burdens they both carried.

The weight of tradition, family expectations, and personal conflicts pressed on Junwoo's shoulders, and his actions in the duel spoke volumes. Despite his capabilities, he intentionally allowed Jinye to emerge as the victor. In the midst of their unspoken struggle, Junwoo's words had hinted at the inner conflicts he grappled with, and Jinye, perceptive as ever, responded with wisdom.

sheathing his sword with a contemplative expression, junwoo met Jinye's gaze with a mixture of gratitude and introspection. "your wisdom echoes through the clash of our blades. The chains of tradition may bind us, but your words remind me that strength lies in forging our own path within those constraints."

He paused, the courtyard filled with a momentary silence broken only by the fading echoes of their duel. "I appreciate your belief in my ability to confront my demons. It's a journey I must undertake, not just for myself but for the legacy we carry as a family." A faint smile played on Junwoo's lips, appreciating the understanding that transcended words in their shared history.

@✿ baek yejun “So~ what makes my baby sister come here today?” Hearing Yejun’s voice from behind her suddenly shocked Doah into a pause from her consistent giggles. Her body spun around, a teasing smile visible even with the mild scare as she couldn’t even sense that Yejun was in the room. The young woman assumed it was more that she was deeply focused on the scandalous painting she found that she paid attention to nothing else.

Finally reaching the middle of the sugared fruit that was in , she swallowed before replying. She shook her head in disappointment and partial teasing, her hand flying out to gently smack him on the chest. “You must know that I am free as an uncaged bird when our father isn’t at home. But…” She couldn’t resist stepping to the side, revealing the painting, well done with even , that she had discovered. Doah crossed her arms, a pout forming as she carried an expression of mockery and mild disappointment. All to joke around with one of her brothers. “Who is this?”

“Our mother does not look like that from other paintings, it’s obviously not me… Orabeoni, do you have–” she threw in a soft gasp for effect, “A mistress? Or is she the only woman in your life?” She carried on with questions going at full speed, along the lines of ‘Is she as beautiful as the painting? How long have you known her?’ while she tucked away from Yejun, crouching slightly once more to look at the painting, long enough that she could memorize it. “She doesn’t look like a noblewoman we know… what have you been doing with the painting?!”

@✿ baek doah Yejun watched his little sister crept into his study. In his eyes, she would always be that adorable innocent baby whom he would protect with his life without second thoughts.
He slowly walked towards her getting ready to surprise her. However, when she went towards the painting that he left to dry, sent him into panic.
‘Why should she directly head there among the parts of his study?’
He was too late though cause she had seen it and he blushed upon her chuckle and giggles, sending him into a further embarrassment. He took a deep breath, mentally prepared himself as he stood behind his little sister.
“So~ what makes my baby sister come here today?” He asked, pretending that she didn’t just see his painting of Dasom, the girl that held his heart in captive ever since he knew her.
“If I know that you’re so free today, I would have dragged you to help me clean my study earlier.”