⁝ park estate.

@✿ park yeongho Once again the maid had come to work her magic and convinced/pressured/threatened a very, very unwilling Yeoreum into staying to eat dinner with the family. The mere thought of doing such a thing was ridiculous. It was outrageous even. If Yeoreum and Lady Seon had known each other for a decade then maybe, maybe it could be considered borderline acceptable for casual occasions. A perfect stranger, however? On the first day meeting? It was extremely peculiar and Yeoreum felt suitably uncomfortable with the arrangement. She had taken the seat offered and was now sitting at the table, her hands folded in her lap and wishing the earth would swallow her up.

Something strange was going on. Yeoreum was sure of it. First Lady Seon calls her because she feels ill, but she makes excuses to avoid treatment. Fine. Let's say something important really did come up. Why did she gift her earrings out of the blue? Did Yeoreum remind her of her daughter? Did Lady Seon have a daughter? Even if she did, it was strange. Those beautiful earrings Yeoreum had been so happy to receive felt heavy and uncomfortable. She wished she could take them off, but that would be too rude.

Then, she's invited to explore the mansion. Very strange. And finally, Lady Seon insists that she stays for dinner. Something was going on. Yeoreum was not quite sure what, but something was off. What role was she supposed to be playing here? What benefit did she provide Lady Seon? Was this some kind of practical joke? Did she like to take in the less fortunate, coddle them and then move on to her next 'charge' once she got bored? Yeoreum bit down on her cheek, brows furrowed. That... actually sounded quite plausible. People were known to have stranger hobbies. So Lady Seon liked to make herself feel better by gifting 'lesser people' pretty things and feeding them good food... It was not unheard of.

Naturally, being branded as 'lesser' left a very bitter taste in Yeoreum's mouth. She subtly glanced down at her clothes and frowned. Did she look so poor that she needed charity? Yeoreum spent a lot of money on fine fabrics for her wardrobe. Yes, her wardrobe was plain by Yangban standards but of good quality. She put a lot of effort into it... Yeoreum bit down on her lower lip. She was sulking. If Lady Seon did invite her over again, she would wear her finest things and show that woman that she was not lesser. '...I'm still lesser even if I wear nice things, idiot. I'm a Sangmin. The lower class. Poor. Dirt poor, to Lady Seon.', Yeoreum thought to herself and in doing so grew increasingly distressed.

"Miss Hong, you met my younger son earlier Yeongho. Handsome boy, isn't he? I'm sorry he was so rude earlier. He's been a bit... prickly... lately.", Lady Seon suddenly spoke. Dumbfounded by the sudden mention of her son, and paranoid not to let her expression reveal too much, Yeoreum smiled unsurely and nodded. "He is very handsome, yes. You must be proud.", she replied after assuming that the Lady wanted to show off. Why else would she be bringing up her son to her, a 'lesser person' after all? "Oh yes, well...", Lady Seon sipped on her tea and smiled sweetly, "He's a little shy, but a very nice young man. Still unwed, unfortunately, but I'm always looking for a nice girl for him."

Lady Seon was smiling at her again and at this point, Yeoreum felt extremely uncomfortable. All she could think as the woman spoke of her son was said son completely and exposed in front of her. Every line of his body up for display and the way... the way... it... had.... swayed slightly as he'd stepped into the room. "My, miss Hong, you're so red! Is everything alright?" Yeoreum nodded anxiously and hid behind her teacup. 'Please just make me disappear please please please please.' No such luck.

The doors opened once more and there he was again. Fully clothed this time. The first time in the hallway he had looked distant and stoic, a cold kind of handsome. Now when she looked at him... he was still handsome but a more... indecent kind of handsome. 'Oh god.' Her forehead was still slightly red from where she'd slammed into the wall during her failed escape attempt.

"Yeongho, it's good that you're here. Take a seat. It's no good to keep guests waiting. -Ah, let me introduce the lovely miss Hong. There was no time earlier, unfortunately, since you were in such a rush... She's a highly reputable acupuncturist and since I'm not feeling that well lately, you will be seeing a lot of her. - She's quite pretty too, isn't she..?"

Yeoreum was frozen in her seat, head lowered, as if she could turn invisible if she didn't make eye contact and didn't make a sound. Lady Seon was very strange. First, she hints at her son's good looks, then she says she's looking for a bride for him, then she praises Yeoreum in front of him. What was this? Some kind of practical joke? No Yangban lady would wish for their child to marry below their rank. '...He is very handsome though.' Yeoreum snuck a quick peek at him, cheeks flushed red. 'With and without clothes.'

@❁ hong yeoreum yul quickly makes his way inside yeongho's chamber, worry evident in his expression. "my lord, i saw a female running out of this room. did something happen?" he asked, concerned. yeongho grew anxious at the question. there's no way he would tell yul that someone he barely knows intruded into his room and saw him in his glory, right?

he clears his throat and shakes his head at the question. "nothing happened," he lied, cheeks still flushed crimson from the earlier incident. "but my lord, you look so red. don't tell me—the lady from earlier saw you—" yeongho clears his throat and shakes his head.

"don't be nonsense. she didn't see anything," yul furrows his eyebrows and nods, though he still feels like the young lord has been lying to him. "if you say so, my lord. i'll prepare your hanbok; it's time for dinner, and lady seon has been asking for you to join her too." hearing the request makes yeongho heave. he hates it with all of his guts. "why does she want me to join the dinner so much? is she trying to get me sick again with her seafood schemes?"

yul smiles and shakes his head. "i can guarantee you that there's no seafood on the table today. i checked the food beforehand and tasted each of them from the kitchen." yeongho heaves. "is lady han cooking the food? that's why you're so eager to taste them?" he teases, causing yul's cheeks to flush red. "but, my lord! i need to assure you to eat somehow!"

yeongho smirks. not that he doesn't know how yul has taken a liking to the lady in the kitchen. "you think i don't know your schemes going to the kitchen each time? that's why i was left alone earlier. i thought you were coming into this room—" yul was waiting for yeongho to finish his words, but they seemed to stop at yeongho's throat. no, he can't let him know. damn, he almost slipped that there's a female who saw him in his glory.

"and?" yeongho rolls his eyes. "no, help me find my jeogori; i'm hungry." yul squints his eyes playfully at his young lord. "you're so mischievous, my lord. i'll find it soon. you know you can't keep any secrets from me anyway," he says confidently before striding away to find yeongho his usual dark hanbok.

yeongho sighs again before his eyes catch sight of a bracelet. he furrows his eyebrows and takes it with him, realizing it must be from the young female earlier. damn. does he have to meet her again? he wishes they didn't see each other again, but—well, never mind that. he will just ask yul to return it whenever he wants. for now, he will keep it for safekeeping.

[post deleted by owner]

@✿ park yeongho This was not what was supposed to happen. Why was this happening? Yeoreum had just wanted to get a scented pouch for Lady Seon. She had definitely come to the correct place. Down the hall, right, straight, left. Why was he... he...

Wet dark strands messily framing striking eyes. A droplet of water dripped from soft black threads on wide, muscular shoulders. It trickled down a canvas of clear skin. On his chest it merged with another droplet and now stronger, heavier trickled further down past his..... it grazed the edge of.... Yeoreum gulped. The droplet was caught on the soft nub but her eyes kept wandering. She couldn't stop it. Her gaze drifted down, over a toned, firm abdomen. There was a groove angling from his hips to the... the... centre. She had never seen it on a woman before. It drew her gaze to a spot she knew she shouldn't look. 'Don't look.', she thought to herself, but the lines of his body were too... too tempting?

She saw it. She had seen it before, in pictures from her father's collection of medical records. She had not been allowed to look at those images but being disallowed had made her all the more curious. So one night she had snuck a candle with her, climbed up the bookshelf in her father's study and gotten her hands on the 'banned' journal. She had been what 5? 6? and had not really understood what she was looking at. Naturally with time it dawned on her that those drawings were showing a man's private parts. The real thing looked different. His looked different.

He roared at her and she flinched, her first movement since he had first stepped into the room. Suddenly confronted by his complete bareness she, like a deer caught in front of a speeding carriage, had frozen. The basket had dropped from her hands, its contents currently scattered across the floor around her. Lips parted in a silent gasp, eyes wide. Her soft eyes glimmered with a series of simple emotions: Confusion, then shock, then distress, and finally embarrassment. Yeoreum was barely breathing. He had covered himself and she felt a belated wave of dizzyness overcome her. The room seemed to spin. Her face felt like it was on fire. She stumbled a step back but caught herself by grabbing onto a piece of furniture at her side. She breathed in thinly and steadied herself, but she did not feel calm in the slightest. Her heart was beating so fast...

Yeoreum wanted to keep looking. At the same time, she was mortified that she had seen him like that at all.

'What else I can do to you? Do? To me?' What did he mean? 'He's glaring at me. Of course he is.' She understood his reaction, but his sharp glare scared her still. She was still staring at him (his face this time). The room was starting to spin again. "I I I I'm sorry!!", she called out weakly, her hands gripping the fabric of her skirt. A veil of moisture coated her soft eyes. "I-" How she wanted to explain herself, but her brain was refusing to produce the right words. Yeoreum fell to her knees and started to feverently gather her things in her basket. "A pouch- I just- I'm sorry- I-" It took her less than 15 seconds to shove everything into her basket and rise to her feet once more. She was looking down, bowing slightly but even at this angle shock and embarrassment were painted clear as day across her features.

She hesitated for a second, wanting to apologise again but she couldn't bring herself to lift her head again. She was gripping the basket so tightly her knuckles turned white. Finally, Yeoreum spun around. Unfortunately, things didn't go quite as planned. "Ah!" She smacked into the wall, stumbled back, took a moment to recalibrate the correct direction, and only then managed to run out the still open door.

It was not proper to run. Not at home, not in public, most definitely not at another's home. And yet, Yeoreum ran. She ran down the hall and out the first door that led to the outside. It was the estate guards that stopped her at the main gate. Yeoreum was on the verge of tears and completely out of it. She was bright red still, and refused to look anyone in the face. Lady Seon's maid was quick to run over. She tried to convince Yeoreum to stay, she insisted, she told her it would mean a lot to Lady Seon, that Lady Seon had been so looking forward to dinner with her. This time, all the arguments that would make Yeoreum cave bounced right off her. She shook her head to everything and insisted: "No- No- I- I have to go!!"

In the end, the maid won. Yeoreum was coaxed/pressured back inside and was settled in a small room. She was given tea and treats and above all, privacy. At least until Lady Seon returned. Yeoreum stared at the tea and in the steaming liquid saw the lines of his shoulders, his chest, his abdomen, his... Her right hand slid up her left sleeve, nails digging into her forearm. It was only when the familiar stinging pain emanated from her arm that she managed to relax. The fog lifted from her eyes and slowly, as her nails dug into her skin and left angry red marks, her heart calmed. 'What am I still doing here?' She didn't know. Somehow the maid had gotten her to stay. It was all a blur. After... that... it was a blur.

The doors slid open. "Ah!" Yeoreum flinched and covered her face with her hands.

@❁ hong yeoreum Yeongho found himself consumed by deep thoughts, which somehow made him anxious. However, he realized he shouldn't dwell on it too much, as they were clearly different people, and he should remember that the resemblance was only in her outer appearance. Yeongho sighed again at the thought. Why did seeing the woman earlier bother him so much?

He soaked his body with warm water before hearing someone click the door open. He furrowed his eyebrows at the sound. "Yul, is that you? Can you bring my clothes in?" he called out. He waited for a few minutes and frowned. Yul wasn't usually silent like that, and he didn't even show up in front of him. Curiosity got the better of him as he stood up and got out of the bath chamber—without clothes on.

Yeongho stepped out of the bath room, and his eyes widened at the sight of the woman from earlier. Not too long after, he realized he was—wearing absolutely nothing. He yelled out his groans and quickly grabbed his jeogori to cover himself fully. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE AND HOW DID YOU GET INTO MY ROOM? ARE YOU A ?" he asked, his cheeks already reddened because the woman had clearly seen him without any clothes on.

"Oh my—this is so embarrassing. You better leave this estate right now, or we'll see what else I can do to you," he threatened with his low, deep voice, his eyes changing to stern and stoic gazes. "If you came in because of that old lady, please tell her no. I won't eat anything that her maids serve me."

There was a flutter of butterflies in Yeongho's stomach when he saw her shocked reaction. Why—why did she look lost and adorable at the same time? Ah, Park Yeongho, get yourself together! This is not the right time to act melancholic. Yeongho took a deep breath.

"Just leave my chamber now," he said as he turned his back to her. He couldn't possibly look at her beautiful features again. Everything about her reminded him of Dasom, and his heart already skipped a beat at that. He shouldn't allow these emotions to betray him again. Yeongho knew better than to open his heart easily after his painful breakups.

@✿ park yeongho Yeoreum did not have long to admire the young man's good looks. His sharp icey tone cut through the air and she glanced at its victim, Lady Seon, wondering if she was alright. She barely reacted, which was very telling. 'How cruel', she thought and still, when the young man's eyes landed on her, her cheeks flushed pink. She could feel another set of eyes on her. The maid's perhaps, silently chastising her for how brazenly she was staring at the young man, or perhaps Lady Seon. Yeoreum didn't pay attention to that. She was far too taken when her eyes locked with his. She gripped the basket tighter and reminded herself to breathe.

He sighed and walked past them with long, brisk strides. She caught his scent as he passed her and blushed deeper. 'He smells good.', she thought and simultaneously, 'Stop looking! You're being rude.' A second passed and he vanished around a corner. Yeoreum was still turned towards where he had gone, her gaze lingering on the now empty space. She was expecting Lady Seon or the maid to draw her attention away but oddly they had stayed very quiet. Now Yeoreum cleared and looked down as she turned back. She raised one hand to brush a non-existent loose strand from her face, a feeble facade for hiding her expression while she gathered herself. She was scared to look at Lady Seon. Would she glare at her? Would she demand that she leave immediately? Yeoreum couldn't believe she had let herself stare at the young master of a client's clan. If the heavy sigh was anything to go by he had been annoyed by it too. 'Great. Great job, Yeoreum.'

Yeoreum bit down on the inside of her cheek and nervously raised her head to look at the lady of the house. Delicate brows furrowed slightly, her large eyes brimming with apology and anxiety. However, she was met with a warm smile rather than a disapproving look. Yeoreum was so taken aback she forgot she was nervous. The maid had a faint smile as well. What was going on? Had she not noticed Yeoreum staring?

"Come, Miss Hong. I will show you to the place I'd managed.", the lady spoke warmly. Yeoreum, still out of it, nodded dumbly and trailed behind the elegant woman. The maid left them and soon enough she was sitting opposite the lady once more. Yeoreum carefully took her leather roll out of a pouch she carried and unrolled it on the table, flashing a smile at the lady as she did so. Steadily, a row of thin, long silver needles were revealed. They glimmered in the sunlight, slender but visibly sharp. "How have you been feeling, Lady Seon? Could you tell me a little more?" "Oh, just a little more tired than usual. Faint, as I'd said. I have little energy these days.", the lady sighed and Yeoreum nodded hesitantly. There were far too many causes for a lack of energy to decide on a course of treatment, but the lady had already folded up her sleeve and was resting her arm on the table.

"I will take your pulse first, Lady Seon.", she said softly and reached out, gently placing two fingers on the woman's wrist. Hm. Her heartbeat sounded healthy for her age and she couldn't detect any major anomalies... Yeoreum was not an acupuncturist out of passion but even so, she wanted people to benefit from her treatments. She was not sure that Lady Seon would feel better, not without examining her further or getting more details. And yet, by the look on the lady's face, Yeoreum had better start now. She smiled at the Lady, a smile that was promptly mirrored, and draw a needle from the leather case. If she did not know what was harming the lady, she would provide a treatment that had the least risk of negative effects and try to alleviate stress. "Please keep still, Lady Seon. The needle will not hurt.", she reassured and placed a hand on the woman's forearm to weigh it down, with the other readying the needle at the targeted spot.

Yeoreum was moments away when the maid stepped up. Lady Seon jerked her arm back and Yeoreum gasped in surprise, barely moving the needle out of the way in surprise. Confusion spelt on her face, she could only sit and watch as the maid once again whispered something to the lady, who nodded in response. With a polite smile, she looked at Yeoreum. "We will have to postpone this, unfortunately, my duties call. But I insist that you do not leave. Stay for dinner." Yeoreum smiled unsurely. "I couldn't, Lady Seon..." But Lady Seon insisted and Yeoreum was quick to give in. She was invited to explore the estate while Lady Seon tended to her matters. Highly inappropriate, of course. Yeoreum had politely declined, and suggested that she'd wait in the room they were in now. It turns out Lady Seon had just asked her to explore the mansion because she was giving her an errand to fetch a scented pouch.

Being given a task made Yeoreum feel better about exploring a home, unattended no less, that wasn't hers. To be honest, she was looking forward to walking through the estate. She went to many fancy homes for her work, but the Park estate felt particularly familiar. Armed with a good excuse, she was ready to walk through the halls, admire the paintings and the fine decorations that reminded any visitor that this was the home of a Yangban clan. The maid had told her where to find the scented poach. It was down the hall they had come from, turning right, straight, then a left and it would be in one of the rooms there. Yeoreum had tried to ask in which of the rooms there but the maid had waved her off and left. She must be very busy. 'I wonder if she is going to help Lady Seon or if she has her own chores.' Watching the maid scurry off she felt sorry for her, and guilty for coming on a day where the Park family was clearly otherwise occupied.

Yeoreum took her time wandering the mansion, her silk slippers silent on the floor mats. After exploring here and there, finding beautiful calligraphy and striking painted paper dividers, it was time to get the scented poach for Lady Seon. There was, after all, a limit to how much one could admire while trying to avoid entering a clan member's private room. The only room she would enter would be to get the scented pouch. 'What was the way again? Back down the hall... right... and then... left? or right?' Yeoreum chewed on the inside of her cheek, fingers clutching her basket as she soundlessly walked towards her destination. 'Left... I'm pretty sure it was left. Ah- here we are. So it's one of these two rooms? I guess I should check the first one first...'

As her hand touched the handle of the sliding door a strange feeling overcame her. She felt nervous. Her breath hitched. 'It's fine. I was asked to get something. This is fine.', Yeoreum reassured herself and slid the door all the way open in one smooth motion.

@❁ hong yeoreum stepping out into the hallway, he collided with his stepmother, lady seon, a woman whose very presence grated on his nerves. his facade of indifference slipped away, replaced by a mask of coldness and stoicism. his gaze, normally impassive, now bore the weight of unspoken disdain as he regarded her. "lord park, have you finished your studies? are you going to eat? I can ask the maid to serve the food for you," lady seon's voice, though polite, grated on yeongho's nerves. he resisted the urge to roll his eyes, his frustration simmering beneath the surface.

"why do you even care? You're not even my real mom," yeongho's retort was sharp, cutting through the air like a knife. his words hung heavy, filled with the bitterness he harbored towards the woman who had usurped his mother's place. somehow, his gaze abruptly landed on the female behind lady seon, and he was definitely taken aback.

dasom.

he clenched his fists as he stared at the young woman for a while before he sighed and hurriedly left the scene to prevent his tears from pooling in his eyes. why? how? how could their resemblance be so uncanny? yeongho got inside his chamber and closed the door. yul knocked on the door and went inside to check on him. "my lord, you look so pale. are you alright? should I call the physician?" asked yul, full of worries.

yeongho shook his head, his throat constricting with the weight of unspoken grief. "no, tul. thank you, but I'll be fine," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. his chest tightened with each breath, the pain of loss threatening to overwhelm him. "yul, can you prepare a warm bath for me? I'll wash up and try to calm myself," yeongho's request was a feeble attempt to regain control of himself.

yul quickly makes his way towards the bathroom and prepares a warm bath for yeongho. when he's finally done, he calls out for the young lord to have his time to calm down. taking off his jeogori and hanbok, he stepped inside the ***sarangbang. he shuts his eyes closed and rewinding the moment he met the girl's eyes earlier before a soft sigh escape his lips.

dasom.

'how do I move on from you if someone who looks exactly like you shows up? I think I'm going insane.' he could feels his eyes sting with tears before he drowned himself inside the water. it's the better therapy for now.

( *** sarangbang : private bath chamber for yangban. )

@✿ park yeongho Yeoreum stood in the room she was asked to wait in, cheeks still flushed from the cold outside, hands clutching a small finely woven basket inlaid with silk. A small table was set with tea and snacks. It looked as if someone had been enjoying a break here and then left half-way. There were exquisitely shaped honey cakes on a small plate. One had been bitten into and then discarded. Yeoreum didn't understand why anyone would take a small bite of something so delicious and then leave. Whatever had drawn them must have been very important. Or perhaps they hadn't been made well? Yeoreum kept sneaking glances at the snacks on the table, but she was careful to only look for a very short moment. She would be mortified if the hostess walked in and caught her ogling leftovers. Yeoreum bit down on the inside of her cheek and forced herself to look at the sliding doors.

It was just in time too. The doors opened and an elegant woman walked in. Yeoreum, ever the good girl, smiled shyly. "You must be Miss Hong.", the woman spoke. She too smiled at Yeoreum, a faint, gracious smile as her eyes wandered over the girl's form. The way the woman looked at her made Yeoreum feel especially self-conscious. The blush on her cheeks grew, her fingers gripping the basket tighter. "Yes. My name is Hong Yeoreum. It's lovely to meet you, Lady Seon!"

Despite the years she had now spent working as an acupuncturist, her clients ranging from the most influential Yangban families to the poorest Cheonmin, Yeoreum had not yet shed her timid demeanour. She did not have the air of a calm and wise medical expert, a major contributor to her client base being diverse but small. Those who had heard of her, put their trust in her. A stranger would not. This made today's encounter particularly special because Yeoreum had never met the Lady Seon. As she stood before the lady, shyly enduring the woman's inquisitive gaze, she wondered why she had been called here... and who had told the Lady of her. Maybe it was that nice Jungin lady... she loved introducing new clients for Yeoreum.

The lady chuckled and motioned to a maid to clear the table of snacks, much to Yeoreum's silent disappointment. "Have a seat, miss Hong. I've heard a lot about you." Yeoreum smiled and nodded and sat down as directed, but her heart was racing. She hated when people said that, because they were only referring to one thing. As expected- "Your father was the late Lord Hong from Gwangju, yes?" Yeoreum nodded. "Yes, he was, my lady. I learned everything from him." Lady Seon smiled. Such a mysterious smile. It made Yeoreum nervous. She couldn't tell what was hiding behind it. "That's lovely. You must miss him a lot." Yeoreum nodded again, her confusion growing as to why she was here. "Yes... I do." She wanted to ask who the patient was, what the ailment was, but she couldn't bring herself to. So she just sat there, basket on the floor next to her, keeping her smile and trying not to look too nervous. Each second felt like an eternity.

"I've heard that you're a very competent acupuncturist, Miss Hong. I have been feeling a little faint lately, and need you to come tend to me regularly. Would that be a problem?" Yeoreum's heart leapt in her chest. "No, not at all. I would be honoured to be of assistance to you, lady Seon." The lady smiled that strange smile again and Yeoreum smiled back. Again, silence lingered between them for a few seconds. "Good... good, I'm glad to hear that." Yeoreum chest felt tight. The woman's gaze was gentle and yet all-consuming. It felt like every part of her was being observed, assessed, judged. Was she just overthinking it? Probably. 'I'm just nervous. It's fine. Just relax. Just relax.', she thought to herself.

"W- would you like me to treat you here, my lady?", she asked after mustering up the courage. Lady Seon looked at her in surprise. Why was she surprised? "Oh, oh no dear. First things first..." The woman flicked her wrist and a maid walked over, a small wooden box in her hands. Yeoreum watched in growing confusion as the box was opened and a pair of earrings displayed to her. "Do you think they're pretty?" Yeoreum's lips parted but she didn't know what to say. Her gaze darted from the earrings to lady Seon to the maid as she tried to figure out where this was going. Then, hesitantly, she nodded. "They're very pretty, Lady Seon. They suit you very well." Yeoreum had decided the lady was fishing for a compliment, because why else would she suddenly show off jewellery to her? To her surprise, Lady Seon laughed.

"Me? Oh no, dear. They're a gift for you." - 'What?' - "Come, put them on." - 'Huh?' - "Help her." Yeoreum was still in a confused daze when the maid set the box down and started to put the earrings on Yeoreum, who was blushing bright red. "Lady Seon... I couldn't possibly accept.", she protested half-heartedly, her eyes already glimmering with tentative excitement at the unexpected gift. She reached up and gingerly touched one of the earrings. Lady Seon smirked at her but Yeoreum didn't notice, too enthralled by her reflection as the maid held a mirror before her. "I insist. They look lovely on you. Think of it as an advance apology for all the times I will be calling upon you in the near future." That was all it took to win Yeoreum over. She beamed at Lady Seon. "Please don't hesitate, Lady Seon. I'm happy to help you in any way that I can!" Forgotten was the strange way Lady Seon had examined her, and the odd, unnerving smiles.

Lady Seon reached over the small table and rested her hand on Yeoreum's. The warmth of her palm seeped into Yeoreum's skin and from there trickled into her heart. 'She's such a nice person.', Yeoreum thought to herself. 'I wonder if she'll give me more presents in the future...' Yeoreum loved pretty things. She had managed to sneak some of her fine possessions with her from her Yangban days, but they were from years ago... from when she was still just a young girl. Her tastes had changed. And who didn't love new pretty things to adorn themselves with?

"Thank you, Miss Hong. I'll be counting on you." Yeoreum smiled at her once more and nodded. The maid stepped up, mirror out of sight, and bowed her head to whisper something to Lady Seon. Yeoreum didn't hear what was said, but whatever it was must be good because it made Lady Seon smile. Reactively, Yeoreum smiled as well. "Follow me, Miss Hong. I will show you where you shall be doing the treatments." Yeoreum nodded and rose from her sit, picked up her basket and obediently followed along. They walked through the mansion at a slow, leisurely pace, giving Yeoreum plenty of time to glance left and right. It looked familiar. It reminded her of home. Her old home, her original home. Yeoreum in her lower lip and forced down a sigh.

Then, the sound of another door opening drew her attention. Lady Seon had stopped and as such so did Yeoreum, a step behind the woman. They both looked at the opening door, Lady Seon with an expression that Yeoreum could not decipher, Yeoreum with confusion and curiosity. This time, Yeoreum was greeted with a handsome face. The young man who looked about her age was very tall. He had slightly slanted eyes that looked both strong and soft at the same time. He had dark straight brows and defined but smooth features. Those eyes... Yeoreum stared openly, but unintentionally. He was not just handsome, he was... imposing, captivating. Every small movement was filled with confidence.

... Lady Seon had said something and motioned to Yeoreum, who was still in a daze. It took the maid nudging her to rip her out of her thoughts. Embarrassed and completely unaware of what had just been said, Yeoreum gave a small, unsure bow. 'He must be the young master', Yeoreum thought to herself, peeking at his handsome face once more as she straightened.

@✿ park yeongho Now that they were older, Yeonghan understood that his younger brother was fully capable of defending his own honor, especially in the face of Lady Seon's merciless, baseless attacks. He listened as Yeongho responded with heavy sarcasm, equally watching with a relieving wave of satisfaction as her once-smug expression noticeably tightened---and yet, as tenacious and erse as always, Lady Seon's snake-like tongue did not waver. The Duke silently applauded his brother for how he managed to appear so calm despite the brimming anger that he must have felt. Yeonghan noticed it in the tone that he gave her and the tension in his jaw.

"My brother is quite blessed and fortunate to have found a suitable match, and I could not be more happy for him, do you not agree, Lady Seon?" Yeonghan diffused, directing his gaze at the older lady of the house. "Soon you will have a daughter-in-law on which you may dote on."

The abhorrence written across Lady Seon's features further inched the smile on the Duke's face. He hadn't yet met the woman that he brother spoke of but if he had to guess, his brother's type in women were not for the faint-of-heart—as it appeared for all of his siblings and himself.

Now he turned to his brother, gathering a bit from the chicken dish to place on Yeongho's bowl of rice. "Matter of fact, if she would so willingly bless us with her presence, why don't you ask her if she could join us at the next family dinner, brother?"

@✿ park yeonghan yeongho's jaw clenched as lady seon's words continued to slice through the air like a sharp blade. suppressing the urge to lash out, he forced himself to maintain a facade of calmness, though his sarcasm dripped like venom from his tongue.

"ah, lady seon," he began, his voice tinged with biting sarcasm, "i suppose i should thank you for your unwavering concern for my romantic endeavours. your interest in my marital affairs is truly heartwarming." he couldn't help but smirk as he watched lady seon's expression darken with irritation. despite the tension in the room, he found a small measure of satisfaction in needling her with his sharp wit.

"and as for your insinuations about my preferences," he continued, his tone laced with amusement, "rest assured, i am quite fond of women. i've even managed to find one who doesn't recoil at the sight of me."

his words were laced with a bitter edge, a reflection of the resentment he harboured towards lady seon. despite his best efforts to keep his emotions in check, the disdain he felt for her seeped into his words.

lady seon's gaze narrowed, her lips curling into a contemptuous sneer. "oh, how fortunate for you," she retorted, her tone dripping with mockery. "it seems even the most unmarriageable of men can find a suitable match in our esteemed society."

yeongho's jaw tightened further at her condescending tone, but he refused to allow her to see the extent of his anger. instead, he forced himself to maintain a facade of indifference, though the bitterness simmered just beneath the surface.

with a forced chuckle, he replied, "indeed, it appears i am the epitome of good fortune. perhaps i should consider myself blessed to have found such a... suitable match." his words were laden with sarcasm, a thinly veiled jab at lady seon's arrogance and disdain towards him.

yeongho continued, "she is an extremely vicious one, i was hoping that you might meet her soon, that you'd be sure to be impressed by how — respectful she is," disregarding the awareness of how the woman he had been pining on is certain to cast lady seon in an unpleasant manners. despite the tension in the air, yeongho made a concerted effort to maintain his composure, mindful of his brother yeonghan's presence at the table.

@✿ park yeongho 　　｡･:*:･ﾟ･ { sᴛᴀʀᴛ ᴏғ ᴛʜʀᴇᴀᴅ } ･ﾟ･:*:･｡
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For as long as Yeonghan could remember with vivid clarity, once every month, his--then alive--parents required a private family dinner with everyone at the table. They insisted on keeping this tradition, month after month, arguing that sitting all together to enjoy a meal would allow them to be present in each other's lives and form strong familial bonds. But their parents also did this as a way to keep tabs on their children. He was an obedient, amiable child growing up, so Yeonghan did not mind much having to show up on time to dinner on these scheduled nights—in fact, he rather looked forward to them with enough anticipation to out run a tiger. Seeing everyone seated around the table, enjoying spoonfuls of seolleongtang and a great variety of banchan, made him feel like the luckiest boy in Joseon to have all of his family with him in that moment. Alive.

The Duke wasn't sure why they continued this custom after his parents passed—moreso, he forced his siblings to sit with him in the very month that they lost them. Despite stuffing rice into his mouth through haggard tears, he was not alone in his grief and that comforted him more than anything, which was the exact reason why month after month, the young Duke summoned his siblings to dine with him and each other.

This tradition went on as it did, even after Jaehan had run away with his bride---even after their perfect, dotable Yoona joined their older brother in Manchuria. Now only Yeonghan and Yeongho remained, faced with the insatiable wrath of Lady Seon. Nothing they did ever pleased her—then again, it had always been this way. Many times, Yeonghan attempted to appease her. To take the higher road. But every ounce of effort he labored resulted unfruitful. At some point before his birth, his mother used to tell him that the Second Dowager still smiled. Genuinely smiled and found happiness in the light of things. But after his mother conceived, something in her twisted up hateful and bitter. Yeonghan still tried to understand the harrowing depth of her pain, even after all of the torment she submitted him to—but as ever relentless, she remained as such.

On this night, Yeonghan had been the first to sit at the table, at the head, as all Dukes do. Lady Seon joined a few minutes later with her trusty flock of ladies-in-waiting trailing behind her. One of them held the train of her hanbok so that she may situate herself comfortably into her usual spot, on the left side of Yeonghan. Most times, she did not bother to join them and instead elected to reside in her side of the manor to enjoy her dinner alone. But tonight was an exception and without a doubt, Yeonghan knew that she must've had something to say, for she never joined them in the hopes of amending her broken and repugnant relationship she developed with her two step-sons. And he was right.

Just after their family chef presented the steaming dishes, addressed the contents of each, and then bowed and exited the room, Lady Seon geared up, diverted haughty gaze on the food placed before her in a stare that appeared as if she were belittling the plate of ginger braised chicken. "Is there a reason why Yeongho's wife has not yet joined us at the table?"

With a derisive click of her tongue, she continued her ridicule. "Tsk, my apologies. I forget that you have not wedded. Must the reason be that you are unmarriageable? Or.. are you not particularly fond of women?"

"Yeongho—" the Duke began but was cut off sharply.

"I believe he can speak for himself. Unless..? He has been rendered mute. My, what a shame." Her dart-like gaze moved between Yeonghan and Yeongho, mouth parted in a contemptuous gasp.

@❁ yoon haewon ｡･:*:･ﾟ･ { sᴛᴀʀᴛ ᴏғ ᴛʜʀᴇᴀᴅ } ･ﾟ･:*:･｡
♘ ❛ ᴅᴀᴛᴇᴅ ┊ ʙᴇғᴏʀᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴊᴏsᴇᴏɴ-ǫɪɴɢ ᴡᴀʀ .
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"If you truly want to inflict some damage onto your opponent simply using your hands—experience is part of it—but so is your level of belief you have in yourself to go through with it," he spoke with clarity, hands held behind his back as he stood behind his pupil. "In any life-or-death situation, adrenaline will offer you some courage, but this confidence must come from your gut instinct. Otherwise, you will find that there is no precision or impact in your hit."

Yeonghan gave his pupil a stern look, despite the gentle feeling that settled in his stomach. Of the students he has taken upon, Haewon's stature appeared feeble—but with the right training and with enough practice, he had no doubt that she could gain the skill to take down a man as agile as himself. Before any one became the best, they were first a beginner, an unexperienced amateur with a desire to learn.

"Now . . . take your stance—position your feet, and demonstrate how you would punch a hypothetical enemy that has intruded your personal space."

@✿ seol yoonah it was no secret that kihyun was a man who indulged in the pleasures of life that not many of these hypocritical yangban men openly divulge. he was one less husk of an honorable man as he was not one to shy away from such a challenge. kihyun, with his interest piqued, stood there watching her every move very carefully. the smirk on his lips remained very prominent as the screws inside his calculating head began moving.

the lady that stood before him was one with colors she would like people to oversee. something that's quite the opposite of everything that he is. oh, how good would it feel to make her break away from it. he bites his lower lip trying to suppress the grin that was slipping as she spoke.

the flickering shadows of the moving crowd and the beautiful decors framing the whole estate suddenly became even more prominent as kihyun's attention wavered but he turned his head back to stare back into the lady's gaze. "who am i not to know a lady from quite a prominent family. how dare i?" he kept his tone and voice hushed.

with the touch on his cheek, kihyun definitely was far into deep in this to even mind that the lady's father is one of those openly expressive of his hatred for kihyun's brash personality. he places a hand over it and briefly plants a kiss on her palm before grinning, "well, they do usually. enthralled enough to even think about me after we've parted."

he raises an eyebrow and maintains his eyes focused on hers, "enough to think about me and call my name at night." he tilts his head, smirking. "if you understand what i meant."

[post deleted by owner]

@✿ seol yoonah with every calculated step into the vastly decorated estate, kihyun reveled in the stunned attention that his sudden arrival had garnered. the lingering gazes of different onlookers, with the visible astonishment on their faces perfectly fueled kihyun's delight. kihyun was sure that these people did not expect the young evasive lord from the house of the three-legged crow would pay any mind to appearing at any of these yangban families' lavish gatherings. and yet, here he is. strike when they least expect it, the smug male notes mentally as he strides into the mass of people inside the estate.

as he passed each and every one of them, the air inside the enclosure thickened with curiosity. surely, not a lot of these people have been in his presence; others have prejudices swimming in their thoughts as they observe his movements in the crowd. kihyun's purpose in appearance might not be of importance, he just needed to scour information as new people and familiar faces returned back to hanseong.

the hush of the crowd slowly returned to faux exuberant laughter and the faint whispering of light-hearted conversations. kihyun mingles tight-lipped, nodding with polite greetings that were hesitant but, well, polite. and just as he was to turn and jest with the uptight gentlemen from his side, he was surprised as he was yanked away by someone away from the scene he came face to face with a lady, their gazes meeting; hers were searching him and his gaze was full of bewilderment. who is this lady who dared to be in such close proximity to someone like cha kihyun?

his hand felt hers and as she jolted her hand away, kihyun's lips curled upwards, mirroring the sudden interest intensifying after such a strange first meeting. "as much as i would like to be a fine gentleman," he paused as he took her hand once more, and places a kiss on top her smooth skin. "i am not one. thus, your apology might be for nothing."

"do tell," kihyun mutters in a hushed voice as he leans forward. his smirk growing rather deeper with every passing second. kihyun's memories slowly crept up to him, growing far too interested in such developments unfolding right before his eyes. "who is it that you've mistaken me for, lady seol?" he hums, "must be someone really special if you felt the need to take me far away from the prying eyes of the crowd?"

@✿ park yeongho Seoyul, maintaining an air of detached attention, sat in Yeongho's chamber as he vented his frustration. The mix of disbelief and irritation etched on his face did little to make her lose composure. It's true that the young matchmaker helped orchestrate with Boo Paengsoon to get past the guards of the Park estate, however the emotional display of the youngest daughter of the Boo clan had also surprised and astonished her.

The matchmaker had seen this before, where a lady's emotional declaration can get the desired reciprocation of her feelings, however Boo Paengsoon did not achieve the desired effect, and instead, it seemed to have irked the young lord. Seoyul, of course, had to expect some resistance, but Yeongho's stern response took her by mild surprise.

With a calm demeanor, she gave up on the snacks at the table and stood before him, meeting his gaze without flinching. The crumbs of the treats still clung to the side of as she spoke. "Lord Park, I understand that this may be a very strange situation. However, please understand that Lady Boo has her reasons for wanting to see you."

Yeongho's soft sigh filled the room as he expressed his disinterest in pursuing a relationship based on fabricated emotions and he made it clear that he already had someone else in mind. Such a bold confession brought Boo Paengsoon into more tears and the young lady could no longer control herself as she bawled her eyes out, hurriedly leaving the room as the muffled sound of her cries echoed through the halls.

The matchmaker could only shake her head, returning her attention to Yeongho, who now directed his frustration towards her. His stern expression was met with Seoyul's calm demeanor. She was well aware that she must choose her words carefully to diffuse the tension in the room as well. Boo Paengsoon was her client, but there was also the risk that offending a yangban lord may not be ideal for her business either.

"Lady Boo's intentions were genuine, and while the method may not have been ideal, I believe her worries about your well-being were sincere. I will ensure that she respects your wishes and leaves you in peace from here on."

Seoyul's gaze briefly flickered towards the door through which Boo Paengsoon had hastily departed and she was about to see herself out. However, she turned back to Yeongho, saying, "also, if you ever reconsider and find yourself open to the idea of matchmaking, just ask to see Lady Dalrae."

With that, Seoyul gracefully headed out of the chamber with a composed posture.

@❀ yang seoyul with a mix of disbelief and frustration etched on his face, yeongho watched as boo paengsoon poured out her emotions beside his bed. as paengsoon tearfully confessed her worries and love for him, yeongho's patience wore thin. his once calm demeanor transformed into a stern expression, and he finally interrupted her, his voice cutting through the emotional atmosphere like a cold breeze. "are you done, yet?"

paengsoon, startled by yeongho's sudden change in tone, hesitated but slowly stood up, wiping away her tears. "my lord, please, I..." she began, but yeongho interrupted her once again."I don't need your theatrics," he said coldly. "leave my chamber at once."

with paengsoon reluctantly leaving the room, yeongho turned his attention to seoyul. "what is the meaning of this," he demanded, his frustration evident. "why orchestrate such a spectacle? is this your idea of entertainment?" asked him with a soft sighs. "I have no interest in pursuing a relationship based on such contrived emotions. furthermore, I already have someone in my mind. so leave me alone, you two."

@✿ park yeongho Seoyul was not expecting Boo Paengsoon’s outburst of tears. Of course even the young matchmaker knew along with many other of her clients about how deeply infatuated the youngest daughter of the Boo clan was about the young lord in front of her, but to see that young woman not hesitate to risk her reputation and image by dropping to her knees at the bedside of Park Yeongho was a sight to behold. Even Seoyul could not help but try to suppress her laughter as Boo Paengsoon’s once pristine make-up was smeared due to her uncontrollable sobs.

Park Yeongho's reaction was also quite the sight. His disbelief and confusion added an air of comedy to the entire spectacle that Seoyul was able to watch unfold front and center. His wide eyed glances, his darting stares that took turn glaring at the crying woman by his bed then at Seoyul, who was standing like a frozen figure at the door of his chamber, along with his exasperated sighs and frustration; it was like a scene from an opera that Seoyul would play to watch at the theater.

Boo Paengsoon swallowed her tears, trying desperately to talk through her wailing. "My lord, please forgive me for my foolishness," she managed to say between weeping, her voice choked with emotion. "I was so worried about you leaving to war, I had to see you the moment you returned!"

The little matchmaker decided this was something she wanted to take a seat for, so she made her way across the room, finding a comfortable chair at a table where there were a variety of snacks and decided to help herself. She silently munched on a sweet treat as she watched the drama unfold. She knew she had stumbled upon a goldmine of material that was even more entertaining than any other she had seen before. It was a love story filled with intense emotions, intrigue, and unexpected twists.

The crying girl continued to pour her heart out, confessing her love for Park Yeongho and the lengths she was willing to go to be by his side. Her vulnerability and sincerity was so powerful that even Seoyul began to pout, crumbs of yakgwa settling on the corner of . "Accept her feelings, accept her feelings," she began to steadily chant as if it could help Boo Paengsoon win over the love of her life.

@❀ yang seoyul Park Yeongho's eyes flickered with surprise as Boo Paengsoon burst into tears by his bedside. He furrowed his brows, attempting to process the unexpected intrusion. "Why are you even here? Where's the guard?" His stoic demeanor cracked with a hint of irritation.

His gaze shifted to Seoyul, a silent demand for an explanation. "Yaa you, how—" he began, but a sigh escaped him, and weariness settled in his eyes. "Look, I want to rest, so can you both please leave me alone."

Boo Paengsoon's sobs echoed in the room, a dissonant melody against the backdrop of Park Yeongho's sigh. "but my lord, please let me taking care of you. I will do anything." He couldn't help but cast a lingering, stank-eyed glance at Seoyul, a silent accusation concealed within the depths of his gaze. Yeongho sighed. He already have his headache, now these two already added the pain into his head.

Yeongho's weariness deepened, lines of frustration etched on his forehead. "This is hardly the time for such visits," he muttered under his breath, more to himself than to the uninvited guests.

@✿ park yeongho The war was over and soldiers have returned home. There wasn't anything in particular about the war that was especially concerning for Seoyul. She was a simple girl who only wanted to do her business. However, Boo Paengsoon, one of her top clients, paid her handsomely to help her get into the Park estate to see the apple of her eye, Park Yeongho. If not for the young bachelorette's eagerness to pay the young matchmaker, then Seoyul would have declined.

However, a few days later, Seoyul found herself standing outside the Park estate disguised as a physician, and Boo Paengsoon, adorned in simple servant's attire. She adjusted her physician's coat, one that belonged to her father as the fabric rustled softly in the winter wind. She stole a glance at Boo Paengsoon, both of their eyes carried a mix of nervousness and tension as they prepared to sneak into the estate so that the young client could see the young lord with her own eyes.

Taking a deep breath, Seoyul approached the guards stationed at the entrance with an air of authority that befitted a physician. "I am Dr. Yang, called in regarding a patient within. I believe that the matter is urgent," she tried her best to carry an authoritative tone.

The guards exchanged a skeptical glance, eyeing the mismatched pair before them. However, Seoyul's confidence and Boo Paengsoon clutching a small basket as if carrying medical supplies seemed to sway their judgment. After a moment of hesitation, the guards reluctantly granted them passage.

Navigating through the corridors, Seoyul and Boo Paengsoon were directed toward the area where Park Yeongho was said to be recovering by a servant. When they finally arrived at the door of Park Yeongho's chamber, Seoyul cast a reassuring smile at the servant, saying, "thank you, but we'll need peace and quiet to tend to the patient."
Boo Paengsoon, eager to see the love of her life, immediately waltz into the room as Seoyul turned the servant away before shiftily sliding the door closed softly. Despite the cold winter, Seoyul felt beads of sweat forming on her forehead as she turned around and watched Boo Paengsoon rush to the bedside of the young lord.

However, before Seoyul could stop her, it was too late when Boo Paengsoon immediately kneeled at the lord's beside, wailing and sobbing, "My Yeongie! You must be in so much pain!!"

Seoyul stood there like a statue, afraid of the young lord's reaction. She knew that Boo Paengsoon's outburst could easily give away their true identities and put them both in danger for having snuck into the Park estate.

@❁ cheon suho A rare, small laughter escaped her as Suho joked of letting her get away with her antics during of this lifetime in the next. The older could already imagine Suho massaging his temples because of the little sister version of herself. "Bold of you to assume I would not share the characteristics as I do now, oh, brother," she commented as her laughter ceased. Protecting her family's dignity and the responsibility weighing her shoulders (not to mention her illness) has held her...lively spirit back to an extent. Who knows if it will be the same in the next life?

Suryeon let out a soft snort when Suho made it a point to pat her head while mentioning their height. Yet she did not complain nor reject the pats as she glimpsed on his older brotherly gesture. How long has it been since she let herself be comforted by her siblings? "Like you said, some things might never change," she pointed out. "I hope you will be prepared to face me and my unrestrained antics."

There was a reason Suryeon held on and did not cease to exist. In her darkest moments, Suho had been a beacon of light. The familial love rooted in her heart for him and the rest of their siblings helped her find strength in continuing to live despite being a shell of a woman she used to be.

Her heart squeezed at Suho's wish. Happiness had long escaped her and she is (almost) sure it would not come back. If there it a chance that it came to find her, she wished it will bless her siblings instead. They, too, has suffered enough. "Cheon Suho, you are more than a blessing to me," Suryeon pressed, baring open her heart a little. "I've also learned a lot from you and. . ." Suryeon paused as she glanced at Saebom. The little spring flower of their family. "You've given me a chance to be a figure I could not have been in this life. There is nothing more you should wish for me."

Suryeon turned back to Suho, her smile brimming with gratitude. "You have Saebom, now, don't you? Her happiness is all that you need to wish for," she added, as they walked towards the little girl. As of now, she remain to think it is right to keep the happenings of the past to herself. As long as she could see the smile on the faces of her loved ones longer, everything would be fine. For as long as her heart will be allowed to beat, Cheon Suryeon will continue to exist.

⁀➴ ꜰɪɴ

@✿ ryu yeonhwa the sound of the string instruments occupied the air with their melodious tunes at the tanhua soiree held in the grand estate owned by the prestigious park family. as the music swirled around the room, it seemed to cast a spell on the attendees, and amidst the captivating melodies, shin hoon, a young man with a heart full of love, found himself captivated not only by the music and the grandness of the soiree but also by the presence of his beloved.

normally, it would be any yangban's waking nightmare to be caught in such a secret rendevouz before any official courtship; especially, for an unwed lady of a yangban house. however, he couldn't care less with the repercussions that may follow as his heart beats in a warm pace at every exchange of words from he and yeonhwa. it has been a long while since they've been in each other's presence like this and the young gentleman has been trying with all his might not to stare. something he's not very successful with.

the laugh that erupted from his chest was a different one, he hasn't laughed this way in anyone's presence and yet it was so easy to let out one with her. he turns to her and grins, his smile's warmth mirroring the affection in his eyes. "i never knew i was until you," his voice was quiet and only enough for the two of them to hear.

with such words, how can one not melt from the tips of their hair to the tips of their toes? shin hoon too is only a man and could only hold back so much.

eventually, his cautiousness slowly faded as everyone from the ton began coming farther away to admire the tanhua's surreal beauty. hoon moves from the table that separated their distance, and hiding his hand from his clothing, he reaches for ryu yeonhwa's hand.

he knew it was something to be discovered yet, the risk was something that was the least of his thoughts. hoon clasped yeonhwa's small beautiful hands, hiding it with both of their clothings, intertwining their hands while trying to lure his own gaze towards something else and yet his lips were painted with a smile that has never been seen by anyone on the colonel's face.

"well then, i guess we're quite a lucky to fall in love."

@❁ cheon suryeon [h] His gaze softened as he observed his older sister and a playful smile danced on his lips. "Well, noonim, if we get another shot at this in the next life, I'll gladly take on the role of the older brother." He chuckled, his tone light and teasing. He joked, "I might even let you off the hook for a few things you’ve done during this lifetime, considering the next will be a fresh start."

Reaching over, Suho affectionately patted her head, a gesture that felt both comforting and reassuring. "But," he continued with a mischievous glint in his eyes, "I wouldn't compromise on my height though. I still want to be taller than you, even in the next life. Some things might never change."

Suho's thoughts lingered on the profound connection he shared with Suryeon. His playful demeanor softened into genuine warmth, knowing that he was the person he is today all thanks for her. It was due to her protective instincts, though veiled in her teasing words and sometimes even her silence that often spoke volumes about the depth of her love for their family.

"Being your brother in this life has been a blessing, Suryeon," Suho admitted, sincerity lacing his words. "I've learned so much from you, and I wish for nothing but your happiness. If there is another life awaiting us, I'd be honored to be your older brother, sharing the load and ensuring your happiness. We'll navigate whatever comes, just like we always have."

He offered a sincere smile, a silent acknowledgment of the unspoken bond between them. Suho had always wished for Suryeon's happiness, knowing that their sibling connection transcended the complexities of roles and responsibilities. As they approached Saebom, he couldn't help but feel grateful for having his sister by his side. Suryeon was a guardian angel too, one he’d never take for granted.

@❁ cheon suho Oh, how well he grew up.

Suryeon knows if one would praise Suho having become a son they would be proud of, she would want a little credit. Playing a devil to his angel, despite mostly to , perhaps had shaped him to live up to his name: a guardian angel. Always putting one's happiness first and foremost. His heart not easily swayed nor tainted by the vile tricks life would play.

It was that very reason Suryeon finds it hard to openly show the burden that had gradually ate her heart. Although he was old enough to witness events similar to what she had experienced, she wanted to keep, what she thinks, a pure heart that Suho displayed. Call it the urge of an older sister to protect her younger brother, if one will. She'd rather hurt by herself than hurt Suho or any of her younger siblings whether directly or indirectly. No matter their age, she cannot shake the image of how little they once were.

Her eyes widen for a moment at Suho's sudden statement, catching her off guard.

There was a lull in her thoughts, and she did not want to admit the words stung her heart, causing the glassy look in her eyes. Had she been unconciously needing—starving for—some sort validation after all the trials she went through? It was ironic given how much she felt she had failed her family's trust that she would bring them back to the life they once knew.

Suryeon looked away from Suho, rearranging her emotions and thoughts. Truly, if it was not for her siblings, perhaps Suryeon would have plummeted to the ground without a safety net. It was Suryeon that needed to show them how grateful she was and is. She cleared , willing her voice remain steady and showing no weakness. "Likewise, brother." Suryeon looked back at Suho with a genuine wish,"If there's ever a next life, I hope we'll still be siblings." Her mischievious smirk returned as she continued,"Preferably, with our roles reversed—you as the older one between us."

@✿ shin hoon [h] as he spoke, each word he shared seemed to weave a spell around yeonhwa’s heart. his sentiments were so sincere and genuine, painting a portrait of devotion no one would be able to resist, and the unrestrained affection pouring out of his eyes had her feeling like the most beautiful woman in the kingdom.

hoon’s compliment about her smile, however, was the pinnacle of sweetness, leaving her breathless as her heart started to flutter as if it were a delicate butterfly. a radiant blush painted her cheeks in a rosy hue as she turned her head away momentarily, awkward chuckling escaping her lips as she allowed herself to relish in the warmth that spread through her.

once composed again, she glanced at him with a bashful smile. “colonel shin, i never knew you were such a wordsmith.”

“but it does make sense, for you sound like a man who is hopelessly in love. utterly smitten, if i may so. but perhaps,” she pauses to lower her voice into a whisper only the two of them can hear, “that is something we share in common.”

“you see, i have been just as blessed as you have been... i have found myself lost in the tendrils of affection too. by a man who sees the universe in my smile and who seems to love me more than life itself. by the man standing right in front of me.”

her eyes sparkled with ardor mirroring the tenderness in his. “and for that, i count myself among the luckiest of women.”

@✿ ryu yeonhwa it was indescribable.

despite the colorful and vivid color in the crowd, the decors gleaming and shining, there was nothing that could compare in the way ryu yeonhwa glowed in shin hoon's eyes. call it the magic of pure affection, but shin hoon felt like he's experiencing the world with a whole new set of eyes. a changed man, that's what he felt like at that moment being under the love of his life's gaze.

has the world been this colorful?

with a chuckle and a radiant smile that nothing could erase, he turns to her, making sure to hold her eyes and gaze on him. it felt good to have her right here, with no tall walls of boundaries and uncertainties holding him back. thus, he stood his ground, unable to hold back the love that he wants to shower her in; completely forgetting that the rest of the world can read his expression and his eyes that carried so much honesty.

"let's just say that my new found confidence is indeed caused by something rather similar." he answered, an eyebrow raised. "i just found a little more of courage to chase after the things that my heart yearns for. and if anyone is lucky, it is me because i am given a chance to share my affection and for it to be reciprocated." he looks down, trying to hide the smile that continues to become wider.

"my love has quite the smile." shin hoon teased, his tone rather quiet but with a tinge of bragging. "do you see the shiny decors that make this place colorful? they have nothing against her smile. they look pale in comparison. now, do you see what i meant when i said i'm a lucky gentleman?" he glanced at her with a smile. "how can a lowly soldier like me deserve someone as bright as her? but i'll take it. i'll take all that i can have. it's once in a lifetime that a poor man can have this kind of luck anyway."

@❀ kim hyunji "i feel like i should know you, but i am having trouble placing your name right now." although sunhwa's tone was apologetic, she seemed to feel otherwise as her lips were curled into a wry smile. the sudden obscuration of her view startled her a little in the beginning, as her aloof personality would usually be more than enough to ward strangers off from approaching her. since the fingers on her right hand were still dotted with hangwa crumbs and sticky honey, she placed her other hand on hyunji's and held it there, "judging from your soft hands, you must be a pretty lady."

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@❀ lee sunhwa looking through the banquet, hyunji was dressed with the best outfit she could make for this occasion because she knows her father wouldn't notice her if she dressed like a casual occasional hanbok. with her brothers beside their father, hyunji felt a little envious towards them.

she frowned before looking over to the back of the hall, she sees the lee family, one of the family who also has a pottery business. hyunji looked at the female sitting upright before walking towards her before covering the other's eyes with her hands, "guess who?" she greeted her.

@❀ kim hyunji sunhwa sighs gently as she tore her eyes from the flurry of colors dancing at the center of the hall. the extravagant banquet was held to celebrate another notable military accomplishments of the parks, successfully driving intruders from ilhwa's north and defending their borders.

seated beside and across her were nobles engaged in merry-making, chattering and filling themselves with never-ending wine and food. the more powerful and wealthy ones had the honor of sitting close to the host, while sunhwa and her family were positioned at the back of the hall along with other jungins she was a polite acquaintance of.

her spine felt numb and stiff, starting to hurt from sitting upright for way too long. "it feels like an unnecessarily harsh punishment," she thought in annoyance. noticing her mother's disapproving gaze from a mile away, she immediately squared her face into a neutral expression and took a bite of the hangwa.