⁝ seol estate.

@✿ ryu minho @✿ ryu aera [h] @✿ go yeonhwa (née ryu) sighting the silhouette of his youngest sister from afar, a grin played along his lips. “as for aera.. she is present, albeit too tardy for our liking.” songmin remarked in sardonic jest. with the four of them appearing in near unison, this meeting marked as a reunion, in lieu of the traditional dinner with their parents in the gwangju estate. “to answer your question, yeonhwa, this public meeting is clandestinely held, within the confines of the seol estate. therefore, i believe it is an appropriate time to converse about the happenings in our lives. anyone would like to go first?”

@✿ jin haeun He had not expected to attend at such a lavish wedding, one in which his acquaintance with both prestigious families of the bride and groom were far too uncertain. He was merely a stranger, his attendance a farce to the reality that his social standings was far too lowly to even grace the pastures of their estate. Yet, in the midst of the grand festivities, Cheon Suho found himself standing there, people watching with faint interest and curiosity.

His thoughts were interrupted by a sudden bump, it was not strong enough to topple him over, but before he could fully comprehend what was happening, he felt the cold liquid seep through the fabric of his attire. Scanning downwards to the young boy, he noted the now empty cup in his hand, his face a portrait of bewilderment at the mishap.

A surprised exclamation sounded in the near vicinity and soon rushed a woman who apologized profusely despite Suho's calm composure. He did not have time to react as she offered the napkin and instructions on how to keep the material of his coat from staining. He managed a small smile, dabbing at the wet spot as she had told. "It's alright," he assured her, his tone light and filled with understanding. He had a daughter himself, so he knew full well of the chaos that came with children.

He glanced down at the boy again, the palm of his hand quick to pat the top of his head to reassure him from any guilt. "No need to worry, accidents happen." Suho couldn't fault the child for a simple mistake, especially not in the midst of an event like this nor was he looking for compensation. "No need to apologize, madam, I'm just glad no one got hurt."

@✿ ryu songmin @✿ ryu minho @✿ go yeonhwa (née ryu) aera had arrived slightly later than she would have expected— with palanquin taking a longer route from gwangju due to the harrowing weather. By the time she had stepped off her palanquin after many hours of journey, the ceremony had already started. Curiously, she looked around, eyes darting here and there in hopes to spot her beloved, but instead, she spots her sibling gathered together in a little circle, a small but long-awaited gathering. with tiny but fast steps, aera made her way over to them, hands waving as she catches yeonhwa’s glance. “eonnie! orabeonideul! sorry for being late, i’m positive we went the wrong way!” the marchioness explains, flashing them a little sheepish grin.

[post deleted by owner]

@✿ seol sayuri (née tsukino) While some might had commented that winter was an odd time to hold any events, the cooler weather did not damper today in any form. The music and dancing went on with the same high energy one would see during a summer festival night. Everyone seemed to eat and drink to their hearts’ content. From a distance, he could see the proud smiles on his parents and grandfather’s faces, greeting and thanking their way through the crowd. Yet, Minhwan did not share the same joyous spirit as everyone there.

Instead, he went through a shift of nerves, guilt, and emptiness that all shoved their way in as the primary emotion of that second. In the meanwhile, it seemed he was a shell of a person, detached from his surroundings. He did not detect his tense jaw and the constant picking at his left thumb with his index finger until he heard her call his name. Turning his head slightly, he finally had his attention on her. His voice was soft, “My apologies, I was looking for someone from work. I thought I had to tell him something since I won’t be in tomorrow morning.”

A white lie did not hurt, after all Minhwan was not one to miss work too often and an unfortunate micromanager from time to time. However, he attempted a small smile along with his rare small talk, “You and my family did a wonderful job with the wedding. Thank you for that, since I wasn’t able to assist during this process." If one was close enough to the couple, they could hear the awkwardness in his tone as he continued, "How about you? Are you and your family enjoying tonight?"

@✿ ryu songmin @✿ ryu minho @✿ ryu aera [h] yeonhwa had arrived to the event alongside her husband and was engaging in conversation with some of his colleagues when the corner of her eye caught sight of her two brothers standing by the refreshment table. politely excusing herself from the conversation, yeonhwa gently squeezed her husband's arm in a silent gesture of encouragement before she glided over to her brothers. with an excited grin adorning her face, she called out to them cheerily, "orabeonideul!" closing the distance between them with eager steps, she asks, "what is this? a secret meeting?" her words were accompanied by a light-hearted chuckle, her eyes dancing with amusement as she surveyed the scene before her. "and where's aera?"

@✿ ryu songmin @✿ ryu aera [h] @✿ go yeonhwa (née ryu) winter had settled in quite nicely, covering the estate in a pure white blanket of snow. alongside the wedding decorations, it made for quite the spectacle. though minho wondered what he was even doing here, if anything, duke seol would have grimaced upon catching sight of the young man in the vicinity of the wedding. though no matter, he was here to partake in the festivities, bid his well wishes and be off on his merry way. that meant standing idly by the refreshment table until the wedding was well underway. a voice calls out from behind, and minho turns to greet songmin with a nod of his head. "brother, i haven't. though i'm sure they'll be here soon. the roads are quite icy, so perhaps the palanquin carriers are taking precautions. that's just a guess however."

【　open starter, multiple responses ok!　】

Haeun had made it a habit to not come to weddings, not since her nephew's. They were superbly extravagant and taxing. And, of course, she did not want to come here... Of all places.

However, her son wanted nothing more than to come here. He had felt awfully claustrophobic stuck in the Jin Estate and the academy for the months it had been just the two of them there. His uncle and cousins had provided only so much entertainment a 12-year-old could take, the rest of the time, he yearned to interact with kids his own age. Haeun wanted the best for him, and this was supposed to be the perfect opportune to do so. Yet, they reminded Haeun too much of what she had lost in the last few years... Even if love was never truly there.

But what was the difference between the love of two friends and a husband and wife? Haeun should know, yet, her best friend was the one who passed last year, who just so happened to be her husband too... Whatever marriage meant.

She had been too lost in her thoughts, so when a surprised exclamation came from nearby, her head quickly snapped over to the recognizable voice. "Jongdeok-ah!"

Haeun rushed over to her son, whose cup of beverage was empty, now onto the lapels of your clothes. Haeun's eyes widened and she immediately whipped her head around, looking for a napkin to wipe. "I am so sorry! I took my eyes off Jongdeok for two seconds..." She grumbled, pushing her son off to the side so she can hand a napkin off to you. "If you are quick, the stain may come out. Do not rub it in."

@✿ seol minhwan Looking out towards the gaggle of people all here for one reason or another— primarily, she presume, for her and Minhwan's celebration of marriage— Sayuri didn't feel the nerves dying down in her chest. The days, no, months leading up to this date was stressful, to say the least. Not only because big events such as these required the entire attention of the one(s) who were running it, but because it finally meant that this was permanent. Which had two reactions from Sayuri.

Finally.

And, as she looked over to Minhwan, who stood next to her as he was supposed to do for the rest of his life, if her sister's words had anything to do with Sayuri's expectations (they did). He was her second and final reason, that it felt strange to be tied so closely to a man she felt like she knew nothing about. No more than she knew the Crown Prince of either Joseon or Meiji, or no more than she knew just about any man that lived in the town her father looked over.

"Minhwan," his name fell from Sayuri's lips, without the honourifics she was so used to throwing around even to her closest of friends, "You are enjoying yourself on this fateful night, are you not? Your jaw seems awfully clenched."

@✿ ryu minho @✿ ryu aera [h] @✿ go yeonhwa (née ryu) [ backdated: dec 12th, 1869 ]

last winter, he was dispatched at the border, trudging through snow at he met the line between life and death. differing from the past year, this winter felt tranquil at the seol estate, his hanbok and coat feeling akin to a warm embrace. most importantly, he suddenly reminisced the winters he spent with his family in gwangju, play fighting or burrowing holes into the snow. or reveling in the warmth emanating from the hearth at the estate.

he pondered if they were to ever meet as a whole family again. sighting his younger brother across from him, he withdrew his hold from his plus one. “i’ll be back soon, darling. alright?” pecking her on the cheek surreptitiously, songmin convened with minho soon enough.

“brother, have you seen aera and yeonhwa? delays are inevitable but considering our.. past history, you think they would have been here sooner.”

“Winter was never my favourite season,” Duke Seol Hwan commented as he approached Minhwan, his favourite grandchild many would say. Despite the duke’s age, he stood tall with a confident posture that made him seem younger than what he truly was. Unlike his grandson’s gentle eyes, Hwan’s were sharp as they scanned the crowd that tricked into the family estate since the early estate before laying his gaze on his grandson.

Despite being nearly half asleep and still reading over the booklet that his cousin, Taejoon, brought him about Japanese wedding ceremonies for what seemed like the tenth time this week, Minhwan immediately shifted his posture to something more upright. Setting the booklet to the side, the youngest heir of the Seol family followed his grandfather in looking out into the crowd, commenting, “I would not had expected that. After all, you were the one that told me that our last name means snow. One would think you have a certain fondness for the season.”

“It has always been a season of mourning for this family. It was around this time my father passed. My mother followed him days later. Some say she had a broken heart, but she was too gentle. They both were. Similar to your father,” the duke reflected before sighing, a rare moment of vulnerability for him. It did not last long before his face returned to the harden expression that Minhwan always remembered. Turning his head to his grandson, he said, “Perhaps, winter could be something worth celebrating for this family from now on.”

Not too far from the distance, both of the Seol men spotted the Tsukino family, who arrived in Joseon days ago for today’s wedding. It was then, the duke continued, “I hope you realize this time how many people are relying on you. Remember who you are. You are not like other men, you have expectations and responsibilities that no one else can fulfill. Do not mess up this time or else you know what will happen. Do you understand me?”

As he heard these words, the count chewed on the inside of his cheek and nodded slowly.

“I didn’t hear you.”

“Yes, grandfather. I understand.”

- -

Laughter.

Something Minhwan did not expect coming from him during the ceremony. While it was a quiet one, it was enough to catch everyone’s attention as he and Sayuri were supposed to reveal their faces to one another for the “first time”. Yet, it was not their first time meeting. Rather it was one of the few moments they spent time together, even if it was in front of all of their family, friends, and strangers that the duke invited. On top of it all, the two lived together, while not under the same exact roof per se.

Many of Joseon’s greatest singers and musicians were brought in from far and wide to play. Art pieces, ranging from custom made pieces and rare antiques were carefully located around the state, but done so that subtly announced the family’s wealth. There seemed to be no budget when it came down to the bride and groom’s outfits, with the duke insisting that the groom’s mother hunt down only the best designers for his grandson and future granddaughter in law. While selfish with his liquor collection and connections, the duke ensured to have more than enough wine that could overflow the Han River. From night to morning the kitchen worked non stopped, as chefs from Edo were also brought in for the wedding, hustling and bustling next to their Joseon counterparts for this very day. Like the food, everything in the wedding was a celebration of the bride and groom’s cultures. Elements of it could be seen around the estate and in the day’s events.

As traditional as both sides tried to keep it, even having two separate ceremonies that honored both families, somehow today was as traditional as it was nontraditional with the mashup of cultures. Somehow, it complemented one another. Ironic, with his grandfather’s rather conservative nature. It was with this realization Minhwan had to chuckle, recognizing that nothing about him and Sayuri were conventional.

Maybe it was the lack of sleep that had the usual distant count slip up like this. After all, he spent the entire night tossing and turning. He was lost in this thoughts, knowing that this was not his first marriage, something he still did not reveal to the bride standing in front of him.

It was a glance at his betrothed, his brief smile disappeared, replaced by an aloof expression. Regardless of some of his more questionable past acts, Minhwan was not blind nor a fool in recognizing Sayuri’s beauty. Stunning was not enough to describe her. While it seemed impossible, she somehow outdid herself today and already he knew all of his coworkers here would chastise him in the coming days for not bragging about her sooner. Although the two did not spend time together and seemed frostier than strangers, he saw how his mother and sister cared for her. She had to be a good person.

Despite going through his vows, Minhwan had to wonder. Did he deserve a partner like her? Or a chance of anything good in his life? All he could now was try, but was that enough?

@❃ ya aecha @✿ song jinye @❃ seo min @❃ seo jin @❃ seo eun @❃ nam boram @❃ na soo @❃ na garam @❃ min saera @❃ kwon nabi @❃ kang seho @❃ jung hana @❃ hwangbo wolhye @❃ heo jinyoung @❃ han dongwook @❃ choi saemi @❃ choi geon @❃ cho miyoung @❃ bang yongha @❃ bang sungha @❃ bang junha @❁ yoon haewon [h] @❁ song narae @❁ kwon bora @❁ jeong hamin [h] @❁ im seohyang @❁ im insoo [h] @❁ hwang miryeong @❁ hwang mijoo [h] @❁ hong yeoreum @❁ hong gureum [h] @❁ hong areum @❁ cheon suryeon @❁ cheon sunyi @❁ cheon sunmi @❁ cheon suho @❁ byun sangwook @❁ byun haeryeong [h] @❁ bae eunhyuk @❀ yoo hyunsik [h] @❀ yoo hyunjung @❀ yang seoyul @❀ yang minkyung @❀ yang hakkun [h] @❀ won ara @❀ son jaeyeol @❀ seo hyunwoo @❀ park heeryong @❀ ong kimbum @❀ moon minsu @❀ moon jinhee [h] @❀ moon hansol @❀ kim seojun @❀ kim hyunjun [h] @❀ kim hyunji @❀ kim byungjun @❀ kang heejin @❀ jeon yunhee @❀ jeon gyunwoo @❀ han bin @❀ choi yoojin @❀ choi shin @❀ choi jinseok @❀ boo junseo @❀ ahn iseul @✿ yoon junho [h] @✿ song jihoo @✿ seol taejoon @✿ seol riah @✿ seol minhwan @✿ seol juhwan @✿ ryu songmin @✿ ryu minho @✿ ryu juyeon @✿ ryu aera [h] @✿ park yeongho @✿ park yeonghan @✿ oh sejin @✿ oh juwon [h] @✿ oh jiyong @✿ oh bitna @✿ moon sejoon @✿ moon jaehoon @✿ moon hyeongwon @✿ kim yejoon @✿ kim eunha @✿ jin jaeyong @✿ jin jaeha @✿ jin haeun @✿ jang ilwoo @✿ jang ilseong @✿ jang eundal @✿ go youngjae @✿ go yeonhwa (née ryu) @✿ go miro [h] @✿ go mina @✿ geum hangyeol @✿ geum eunbyeol [h] @✿ choi sunyoung @✿ choi siwoo [h] @✿ chae seongyeom @✿ chae eunjeong (née seo) @✿ cha seonhye (née chae) [h] @✿ cha kiwoon @✿ cha kihyun [h] @✿ cha jiwoong @✿ cha jiah @✿ baek yejun @✿ baek junwoo @✿ ahn suji @✿ ahn hyunki [h] @✾ tsukino sayuri ♡

〖 NOTE FOR ALL 〗
A non-mandatory event has started. Please refrain from posting any other replies in this room until the has concluded. Thank you!

the coming together of two nations through the marriage of count seol minhwan from joseon and marchioness tsukino sayuri from meiji, harkening the beginning of the new year and the ending of winter. with decorations and guests from all over joseon and meiji, the seol estate humbly welcomes everyone to join in on the festivities to celebrate this marriage.

˚✿ ic date: december 12, 1869.
˚✿ ooc date: may 1st - may 7th.
˚✿ venue: the seol estate in hanseong.
˚✿ invitation: https://i.imgur.com/zWy2MsQ.png

⊹ please note that this event is back-dated!

⊹ as both minhwan and sayuri are children hailing from prominent families, we would highly encourage everyone to attend their wedding as this means they would have a large network of acquaintances. we also recommend having replies and interactions in the forms of one-liners, short paragraphs, and open starters for easy mingling purposes. however, you are free to post as much as you like and use the occasion as a plot device or point within reasonable means.

〖 all mini events are not mandatory but participation is highly encouraged! 〗

@✿ moon jaehoon Riah found herself reflecting on whether the duke's uncharacteristic friendliness had been spurred by one drink too many. As she lay awake, thoughts swirled about whether he would wake up with any recollection of their exchange the next day. This uncertainty cast a shadow over the authenticity of his apology and remarks, leaving her with a subtle sense of melancholy.

The notion that alcohol might be to blame for her mood crept into her mind, but Riah recognized it as a superficial explanation. Despite having indulged in three cups, she remained keenly aware, her senses unclouded by the modest intake. Aware of her clarity, she couldn't shake the feeling that there was more beneath the surface of their encounter, a truth that lingered just beyond her grasp.

"I don't recall mentioning any worries on my part, Duke Moon," she challenged, her eyes alight with jest and a hint of mischief as she continued to regard him. The countess was growing impatient standing in front of the imposing Seol estates' gates, conscious of the risk of being seen by her watchful cousins, her brother, or, heavens forbid, Duke Seol himself. The thought of engaging in what could be perceived as improper behavior without a chaperone filled her with unease; the specter of scandal loomed large in her mind.

Her gaze lingered on the duke for a moment longer before she relented, her tone softened. "Well, if you insist," she replied, deciding not to press the matter further. If he was so confident in his assurances, she trusted that he possessed the capability to navigate his way home without further assistance. As they lingered at the estate's entrance, she couldn't help but feel a mix of relief and anticipation for the evening's clandestine rendezvous, tinged with the thrill of forbidden excitement.

In the quiet of the night, Riah couldn't help but silently ponder whether Moon Jaehoon would have displayed such warmth and smiled at her if not for the haze of alcohol clouding his mind. Would his demeanor have been as friendly and inviting under different circumstances? She entertained the notion briefly, considering the possibility that his actions were merely a product of the intoxicating influence.

"Perhaps not," she murmured to herself, a touch of wistfulness coloring her thoughts. The uncertainty of his sincerity weighed on her, leaving her to wonder about the authenticity of their interaction.

Caught up in her thoughts, Riah was taken by surprise when she felt the warmth of Jaehoon's hand gently patting her head. It was an unusual gesture, particularly coming from her superior and at her age. Despite her reservations about physical contact and the lingering awareness that Jaehoon may have been under the influence of too much drink, Riah decided to indulge him momentarily.

After all, she thought to herself, who knows when this might prove useful in the future?
With a small, knowing smile playing on her lips, Riah took a subtle step back once the brief interaction concluded. She carefully tucked the memory away in the deepest recesses of her mind, recognizing its potential value as a hidden card to be played when needed. The exchange left her feeling both amused and calculating, her mind already at work, strategizing in the quiet aftermath of the unexpected gesture.

“Go ahead, It’s late.” He says, and the countess agrees with a slight nod of her head.

"I must express my thanks for escorting me all the way home, my lord, especially considering your current... state," Riah said with a hint of playful sarcasm, her eyes sparkling as she addressed Jaehoon. The formal address felt both unfamiliar and strangely fitting as she regarded him.

Performing a graceful curtsy, the countess maintained her composed demeanor, her smile reflecting genuine appreciation before she turned to depart. Unaware of her oversight, Riah accidentally dropped her delicate jasmine scent pouch, the soft fragrance lingering in the air as it settled on the ground just before the duke's feet.

As she walked away, Riah's mind was already drifting back to the evening's events, her thoughts weaving through the curious interactions with Jaehoon and the implications of their exchanged words. Little did she know that the small, dropped token of her presence would remain behind, a subtle reminder of their shared moment in the cool evening air.

@✿ seol riah As they approached the grand gates of the Seol estate, Jaehoon's steps grew slightly steadier, his mind still clouded from the fog of the alcohol he had consumed earlier. Each footfall echoed softly against the cobblestone path, a rhythmic accompaniment to the gentle rustle of leaves in the night breeze.

The imposing structure of the gates stood tall before them, casting a shadow over the path like a silent guardian. In contrast to the modest gates of the Moon estate, which reflected the understated elegance of their yangban clan, the Seol estate exuded an air of grandeur and refinement befitting its prestigious lineage.

Turning to Riah, Jaehoon found himself captivated by the softness of her expression, her eyes shining with a mixture of concern and something else that he couldn't quite pinpoint. It was a vulnerability he had not seen before, a glimpse behind the facade of strength and composure she so often projected.

In that moment, Jaehoon couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude towards Riah. Despite their rocky start and the misunderstandings that had plagued their interactions, she had shown him a kindness and understanding that he hadn't expected. It was a testament to her character and resilience, qualities that he found himself admiring more with each passing moment.

When Riah inquired about his sobriety, Jaehoon nodded, a faint smile gracing his lips as he met her gaze. "I'll be fine," he assured her, his voice infused with quiet confidence. Despite the lingering effects of the alcohol, Jaehoon was determined to make the journey home on his own, unwilling to burden Riah with unnecessary worries.

As Riah pressed further, inquiring about his alcohol consumption, Jaehoon chuckled softly, a self-deprecating glint in his eyes. "Not much, perhaps just one too many," he admitted with a sheepish grin, acknowledging his own lapse in judgment. He couldn't deny that he had been coaxed into indulging in more drinks than he should have, succumbing to the festive atmosphere and the company of his fellow wedding guests.

In a spontaneous gesture of reassurance, Jaehoon reached out and gently patted the top of Riah's head, his touch light and comforting. It was a gesture born of instinct rather than conscious thought, yet it felt surprisingly natural and intimate. The touch itself was light and fleeting, barely grazing the top of Riah's head, yet it carried with it a sense of warmth and affection that transcended words. It was a gesture devoid of any ulterior motives or hidden agendas, simply an instinctual response to the vulnerability he saw in Riah's expression. For Jaehoon, it was a rare display of vulnerability, a departure from the stoicism and reserve he typically maintained in his interactions with others. He couldn't quite explain the impulse that had driven him to act.

"But don't worry about me," he added, his voice warm and reassuring. "I'll be fine." He repeated the words, hoping to convey his reassurance for her concern. Despite the haze of alcohol lingering in his mind, Jaehoon felt a sense of clarity and purpose in that moment, a deep appreciation for the connection he shared with Riah.

As they stood together before the gates of the Seol estate, Jaehoon couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over him. Their conversation had brought them closer together, bridging the gap that had once divided them. Perhaps, he thought, this was the beginning of a genuine friendship—a chance to get to know Riah beyond the confines of their professional roles.

Even though Jaehoon understood that they would soon return to their professional obligations and cross paths again, he couldn't ignore the sense that this moment held some special significance, one worth cherishing a bit longer. However, he also recognized the need to not hold Riah any further than necessary. With a gentle gesture, Jaehoon gestured for Riah to enter the gates, his hand extending in an unspoken invitation. "Go ahead," he whispered softly, his voice infused with a warmth that echoed the flickering lantern light. "It's late."

@✿ moon jaehoon Riah's discerning eyes caught the subtle flush on Jaehoon's cheeks, prompting her to wonder if he had indulged in more drinks than she had. Despite her usual inclination to harbor grudges, she found herself admiring his determination to finally address the lingering misunderstanding between them.

In his silent company, she unexpectedly found comfort, which led her to extend the invitation for him to accompany her home—a gesture tinged with a hint of regret for her prior avoidance of him. After all, Jaehoon was her superior, yet he had shown remarkable restraint in response to the countess's myriad opinions about him.

“Not a shut-in huh.”

His words elicited a light chuckle from Riah, appreciating the effortless banter and camaraderie they shared. However, a memory surfaced in her mind—a letter from her best friend weeks ago, describing Riah as "quite taken" with the Right Vice Minister. This recollection caused Riah to momentarily look away, questioning the depth of her connection with him. After all, they had only interacted on a couple of occasions. She rationalized her comfort with him by acknowledging that he was one of the few men outside her family circle whom she engaged with regularly.

Perhaps that was the extent of it for now. Riah decided not to dwell too deeply on her feelings toward the duke. The main relief came from having cleared up their misunderstanding, allowing her to set aside any further contemplation for the time being.

As they approached the imposing gates of the Seol estate at a leisurely pace, Riah couldn't help but feel a tinge of concern for her companion. The distance to his home at the Moon estate was considerable, and she wondered if he was in a fit state to make the journey alone.

Considering his well-being, Riah contemplated arranging a discreet palanquin to transport him safely home without alerting her family, particularly Duke Seol, who would undoubtedly inquire about the identity of her . She mulled over the logistics, mindful of the need to maintain appearances and avoid unnecessary scrutiny.
The looming presence of the Seol estate's gates marked the conclusion of their pleasant stroll, but Riah's thoughts were now preoccupied with ensuring her companion's safe return rather than the end of their time together.

"Duke Moon, are you feeling up to getting home on your own?" Riah's voice carried a hint of concern as they reached the imposing gates of the Seol estate. Halting in front of them, she turned to face the tall figure beside her.
Jaehoon's height made Riah tilt her head slightly to study his features, pondering both his demeanor and his ability to navigate his way home.

"Should I arrange for a palanquin to take you home? How much have you had to drink?" Riah's arms folded across her chest as she raised an eyebrow, her gaze fixed on him. In that moment, she realized how effortlessly comfortable she felt in his presence, despite his status as her superior and all the titles he held.

The offer hung between them, tinged with unspoken familiarity and a touch of concern, encapsulating the ease with which they engaged despite the boundaries that might otherwise have loomed between them.

@✿ seol riah As they walked, Jaehoon's senses were keenly attuned to the subtle changes in the environment around them. The gentle breeze that caressed his skin carried with it the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, filling the air with an intoxicating aroma that mingled with the earthy scent of the soil. The rustling of remaining leaves of the trees on the sides provided a soothing backdrop to their conversation, their soft whispers echoing in the quiet night air like a gentle melody.

Despite the tranquil surroundings, Jaehoon's mind felt clouded, the effects of the alcohol he had consumed earlier beginning to take hold. Yet, he was determined to stay awake and coherent, unwilling to let the opportunity for their conversation slip away. With each step, he focused on maintaining his balance, his thoughts drifting in and out as he struggled to keep his wits about him.

With each step, Jaehoon felt the tension that had once gripped him slowly dissipate, replaced by a growing sense of ease and comfort in Riah's presence. Her sincerity and willingness to address their past misunderstandings filled him with a profound sense of gratitude, warming his heart in ways he hadn't expected. He was almost certain it wasn't just the alcohol this time, but perhaps the company.

"Not a shut-in huh," Jaehoon remarked with a chuckle, his lips curling into a faint smile as he glanced at Riah. The lightness of their exchange brought a sense of relief, easing the weight that had settled upon them since their initial encounter. "Well, who would I share your insults about me to?" he added jokingly, the playful banter between them serving as a small interlude from the seriousness of their conversation.

"Don't worry, your secrets are safe with me," Jaehoon assured her, his tone carrying a weight of sincerity that echoed through the tranquil night air. With a gentle gesture, he motioned towards his own chest, his hand, which had been habitually clasped behind his back, now resting lightly against his heart. It was as if he sought to underscore his words with a physical reassurance, emphasizing the depth of his commitment to safeguarding their conversation. "In here," he repeated softly, his gaze meeting hers with unwavering earnestness.

As they continued their walk, Jaehoon found himself opening up to Riah in ways he hadn't anticipated. There was a part of him that he would always keep hidden, his vigilante identity, a secret he guarded closely. Despite his desire for honesty, he knew that some truths were better left unsaid, lest they put both himself and those he cared about in danger. Yet, even as he shared more about his past and his beliefs, there was a sense of restraint, a line he was unwilling to cross, yet.

"The only thing I misled you about that day was my name," Jaehoon confessed, his voice soft but earnest as he met Riah's gaze. "Everything else I shared with you was real. My experiences, my beliefs... they were all genuine." Unbeknownst to Jaehoon, he found himself naturally matching Riah's steps, his subconscious mirroring her movements as if drawn by an invisible thread connecting them.

@✿ moon jaehoon “Ah, so we both find ourselves in such a predicament. Well…let us be off then.”

Perhaps it was the cheerful atmosphere of the wedding, or the libations she had enjoyed, but a small smile graced the countess's lips upon hearing that the duke would accompany her on her walk home. Riah was aware her palanquin awaited somewhere, yet she now preferred walking, relishing the opportunity to spend time with the latter.

Had it not been for the warmth from the drinks she had earlier, the cold autumn breeze swirling around Hanseong would have chilled her to the bone. As they began their walk home, the atmosphere was initially quiet, with only the gentle swaying of their hanboks in the breeze and the satisfying crunch of fallen autumn leaves underfoot breaking the silence. Yet, it was a serene kind of quiet—a familiarity that seemed to suggest they had shared this experience countless times before, despite this being their first.

Dodging the Right Vice Minister at work had become increasingly challenging in the weeks following their shared work excursion. Jaehoon seemed to always show up at the office without fail whenever Riah was present, often appearing conveniently to hand her the paperwork she needed him to review. Riah attempted to evade him by feigning absorption in other tasks, such as diligently attending to additional paperwork, resulting in sparse and brief exchanges between them. She made a point to address him respectfully and maintain professionalism in his presence. At times, Riah deliberately took on lengthier cases to minimize her time in the office and thus reduce her encounters with him.

As they walked along the pathway illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns, the countess stole a brief glance at him from the side, studying his countenance. Despite the dim light, she could discern the contours of his features. She had only ever seen him head-on before, and now, observing him from this angle, he exuded a certain charm she couldn't quite pinpoint—a quality reminiscent of the autumn season enveloping Hanseong, her favorite time of year.

He looked just as comfortable as she was. So when he breaks the silence, Riah was inclined to listen to whatever it was that he had to say.

His apology brought a wave of relief, knowing that their shared encounter had affected him deeply as well. Riah found herself unable to shake the events of the trip from her mind—a rare occurrence for someone not accustomed to feeling guilt or remorse. In her state of panic, she had hastily dispatched missives to two of her closest friends, now regretting her impulsive actions.

"I wanted to extend my apologies, for any misunderstandings that may have arisen between us. For deceiving you. It was uncalled for."

His sincerity resonated in his voice, eliciting a smile from Riah, though she quickly averted her gaze to conceal it from him. She acknowledged inwardly that reciprocating with an apology was the appropriate response.

"I must admit, I bear some responsibility for our current situation. If I hadn't accused you of being a tardy aide, perhaps we wouldn't have found ourselves in this predicament," Riah began, folding her hands together as they continued along the path. The evening chill was creeping in, but she found comfort in knowing that they were nearing the Seol estate.

"Additionally, I apologize for mistaking you as an aide, Duke Moon, and for subjecting you to my countless insults and endless ranting that day. It's quite clear to me now that you are anything but a recluse," Riah said with a hint of humor, attempting to lighten the mood. She couldn't help but chuckle at her own jest.

"And I must express my gratitude for the brief respite your charade afforded me. It provided a welcome distraction from more pressing matters. I trust that everything I shared with you remains in confidence?" she inquired playfully, unconsciously slowing her pace as if reluctant for their walk to come to an end.

@✿ seol riah Jaehoon assumed that the person Riah had been waiting for was likely Hyunsik, her bodyguard. He found himself pondering the possible reasons for his absence. Had she dismissed him for the night, perhaps feeling confident in her ability to navigate the streets of Hanseong alone at night?

There was a hint of resignation in her gaze, tempered by an underlying determination that spoke volumes about her inner strength. It was a rare glimpse beneath her composed exterior, a reminder that even the strongest among them had moments of vulnerability.

For a fleeting moment, Jaehoon found himself caught in a dilemma, torn between the familiar confines of professional decorum and the allure of stepping beyond its boundaries. On one hand, he could choose to politely decline Riah's offer and bid her farewell, adhering to the expected norms of their respective positions. On the other hand, he could seize the opportunity presented before him, setting aside the constraints of rank and protocol in favor of a more personal connection with Riah.

In the end, it was the tug of curiosity that won out, prompting Jaehoon to nod in agreement to Riah's invitation. His decision was not solely driven by a desire to bridge the divide that had kept them apart, but also by a genuine sense of intrigue and interest for the countess before him. There was something undeniably compelling about her, something that beckoned him to explore the depths of her character beyond the surface.

"I am not waiting for anyone, Lady Seol," Jaehoon spoke, his voice steady and composed despite the tumultuous thoughts swirling within him. "And I would be honored to accompany you on your walk home.

As Jaehoon fell into step beside Riah, he couldn't ignore the rapid beat of his heart, its rhythm seemingly amplified by the quiet of the night. He couldn't help but wonder if it was merely the lingering effects of the alcohol from earlier, his senses heightened by the thrill of the unexpected company. Perhaps he shouldn't have indulged in that additional cups, knowing full well his own limits. Yet, as he walked beside Riah, the slight buzz in his head seemed inconsequential compared to the anticipation coursing through his veins.

As they embarked on their walk, Jaehoon toyed with the idea of initiating casual small talk, perhaps about the wedding and Riah's impressions of the event. However, his thoughts soon gravitated towards a more pressing matter—the need for an apology. Despite the alcohol dulling his inhibitions, Jaehoon found himself hesitating to broach the subject that had been weighing on his mind for weeks.

He had harbored intentions of reaching out to Riah after their trip, aiming to mend any misunderstandings and potentially establish a genuine connection. However, her avoidance of him in the intervening weeks had left him uncertain of how she would respond to such a gesture. Would she welcome his attempts at reconciliation, or would she reject him once again, reinforcing the distance that had grown between them?

Taking a deep breath, Jaehoon summoned the courage to speak, his voice cutting through the quiet of the night. "Lady Seol," he began, his words measured yet tinged with a hint of vulnerability, "I must admit that I had hoped to speak with you after our trip,upon our return." He paused, unsure of how she would respond to his sudden admission. "I wanted to extend my apologies, for any misunderstandings that may have arisen between us. For deceiving you. It was uncalled for." After all, their interactions thus far had been fraught with tension and uncertainty, leaving little room for the genuine connection he longed to foster.

@✿ moon jaehoon After the wedding celebrations had ended, Riah found herself at the designated meeting spot where she and her bodyguard had agreed to rendezvous. As moments passed without his arrival, the countess began to feel a creeping sense of worry. She feared that he might have become lost, or worse yet, abandoned his duty to protect her. While being alone was not unfamiliar to her—she had often walked unaccompanied at night—Riah never ventured without the eunjangdo that her Juhwan orabeoni had gifted her.

Deciding to give Hyunsik five more minutes, Riah contemplated taking a solitary walk home if he failed to appear. In the interim, she amused herself by scanning the dispersing crowd. Observing the guests in various states of inebriation, she couldn't help but find amusement in the scenes unfolding around her. Some guests seemed relatively sober, while others stumbled clumsily in their hanboks. The sight of gentlemen with crooked gats and swaying gatkkeuns, struggling to regain their balance, was almost comical. Most were eventually assisted into palanquins by their attendants, who diligently transported them back to their respective residences.

Perhaps it was her own amusement that had distracted her, causing Riah to be caught off guard when the lord suddenly addressed her, almost jolting her from her reverie. She regarded him once more, as if she hadn't already taken in every detail of him during their brief encounter hours ago. The image of him had seared itself into her memory, and now here he was again, standing before her.

The countess had indulged in only three drinks, enough to ward off the chill of the autumn night that enveloped Hanseong. She could still feel the warmth on her face from those sips, yet she was far from being tipsy like the gentlemen stumbling into their palanquins.

"Oh..." was all the countess could manage to say from where she stood. The lantern's shadows played across his face, accentuating his features. He appeared kind, the sort of person who naturally drew others to him. This charisma was evident from their previous encounter, with many flocking to him.

"Yes, indeed. I was waiting for him, but it seems he won't be coming. I'll have to make my way home alone," Riah stated, trying to adopt a curt tone rather than her usual icy demeanor toward the duke.

"How about you, Duke Moon? Are you waiting for someone as well?" she asked, motioning toward the empty space beside him, perhaps wondering about the absence of Marchioness Oh.

"If you are not, then perhaps you could accompany me on the walk home, in place of Hyunsik." It was more than a suggestion, one that Riah anticipated would likely be rejected by the duke. After all, she was merely his work subordinate, nothing more. The gap created by his deceit had prevented any chance of friendship between them.

However, Riah still wanted to extend an olive branch and silently offer her apologies for the insults she had unwittingly hurled at him earlier. Despite her pride resisting a direct apology, she hoped that suggesting they walk together might create an opportunity for her to decide whether she would apologize or not.

@✿ seol riah As Jaehoon lingered at the Ryu estate, he couldn't shake the enchanting atmosphere of the wedding celebration. Despite his initial hesitations, he found himself drawn into the festivities, swayed by Bitna's insistence to share a drink or two. The music, the laughter, and the merriment enveloped him, yet amidst it all, his thoughts invariably gravitated towards Riah. Her presence, like a lingering melody, echoed in his mind long after she had left his sight.

Stepping out through the grand gates, the cool night air greeted him with a refreshing embrace, a stark contrast to the warmth that still lingered in his veins from the celebratory libations. The grounds, bathed in the soft glow of lantern light, exuded an otherworldly charm, casting a spell that seemed to transcend the confines of reality. And there, amidst the dimly lit scenery, stood Riah, a solitary figure amidst the dispersing crowd.

Approaching her with measured steps, Jaehoon couldn't help but be captivated by her presence. She stood there, a vision of grace and poise, her silhouette illuminated by the ethereal glow of the moon. In that moment, she seemed to embody both strength and vulnerability, a mesmerizing blend of contradictions that left him spellbound.

As he drew nearer, memories of missed opportunities flooded his mind, each one a poignant reminder of the divide that had kept them apart. He couldn't help but feel a pang of regret for the chances he had let slip away, for the words left unspoken and the emotions left unaddressed. Yet, amidst the regret, he found a glimmer of hope – a chance for redemption, a fleeting opportunity to bridge the gap that had lingered between them for far too long.

In the weeks that followed their trip to the neighboring town, Jaehoon found himself consumed by thoughts of Riah. Each day, he waited with bated breath for her to appear at his office, hoping for a chance to address the unresolved tension that had haunted them since their journey together. He found himself making a conscious effort not to miss a single day of work, arriving early and leaving late in the hopes that she would seek him out, even for just one moment. Yet, despite his unwavering dedication, she remained elusive, her absence a constant source of frustration and longing.

Why was he doing this?
She's just his subordinate.
An acquaintance at best.
Did he, want to know her more?

With each passing day, the weight of unanswered questions grew heavier, the uncertainty of their unresolved encounter casting a shadow over his thoughts. He yearned for closure, for the chance to finally lay bare the truths that had remained unspoken between them. But as the days turned into weeks, his hopes began to wane, replaced by a sense of resignation to the uncertainty that plagued their relationship.

"Are you waiting for Hyunsik?" Jaehoon's voice broke the silence, soft yet tinged with warmth. It was a simple question, but beneath its surface lay an unspoken invitation – an invitation for companionship, for connection, for the chance to share in the tranquility of the night. And as he awaited her response, he couldn't help but hope that this moment would mark the beginning of a new chapter – a chapter defined not by missed opportunities, but by the promise of possibility.

@✿ seol minhwan The pain in Minhwan's voice... There was a slight comfort in knowing that she was not the only one suffering from grief, but that comfort almost immediately was replaced by a guilt so heavy she thought she could not breathe. Her lips parted, as she took slow, deep breaths, but tears built in the corners fo her eyes, threatening to fall any moment then. Her hold by her stomach tightened, and she bit on her lower lip, as though doing so would help her keep her tears where they should be—gone, never to roll down her cheeks.

She had cried enough, hadn't she? She had cried enough, and yet there were still tears in her eyes as she listened to him speak of words she knew he would never have said. This was not her Minhwan; this was not her lover speaking. Her husband could never say such words, especially to her.

Yet a tear rolled down her cheek, and she quickly lifted her free hand to wipe its trail away. With glassy eyes, she moved her gaze from the table to the man before her. Her heart tightened at the sight—even now, even in her pain and grief, she would still notice the little things in his body language, in his appearance. He looked just as terrible as she was, the last time she had looked in the mirror (which was how long, really? She could not bear to look at her reflection anymore, without that bump she had already grown so used to).

"Minhwan-ah," she called breathlessly. Her voice was fragile, as though anything could break her. And perhaps, that was the truth. She had already been broken down so much; it would not take much for her to break even more. And quite frankly, she was almost scared of the fact that Minhwan held such power over her. Only he could make her feel complete, and with that came with the ability to break her heart far more easily than the others.

And now, he wielded that power without mercy.

How much more could she break?

"Some vermin? You call us—your child and I—vermin?" She inhaled sharply, but her breath stuttered, and another tear rolled down her cheek. "A future worth more than this? Than—than our love, really?" She pressed her fist against her stomach, and the reminder of its emptiness only forced another tear to fall, followed by another. "Do you even hear yourself?"

It did not take her long to realize that she was crying once more. Oh, the skin of her face had grown used to the feeling of tear-stricken trails down her cheeks.

She knew him more than she knew herself, knew him like the back of her hand. She knew why he was speaking of these things. She had always known in the back of her mind ever since she had met his grandfather weeks before. But she had hoped then, that they would persevere somehow. She hoped that they would have been able to go against all odds, and yet here was her love, shattering her even more. She had hope, really, as she held onto his love for her, and yet...

She closed her eyes, as more tears fell. "If you want to lie to me, Minhwan-ah... then do so with more conviction."

@❁ hong areum The moment Minhwan stepped into their martial home, he realized that gone was the home. It was a house, despite the memories made and the dreams fostered here. While it was a smaller and humbler abode compared to the other Seol estates across the nation, it was not the lack of luxuries and abundance that made it lose its once special status. Rather it lost the warmth that made it a home, but he only had only person to fault, and that was himself.

Almost everything was the same, from the dishes to the furniture. What stood out to him though were some of the blankets and clothes that Areum made, now tucked away in the corner of their room. How they spent afternoons, her with her needlework and him with his book as they did not worry about the outside world. Even in silence they relished simply in the comfort of being in one another’s presence. Despite such a scene being only weeks ago, it felt as if years passed. Yet the passage of time was obvious when the first change he noticed in this hanok was Areum’s figure.

Gone was her growing bump. The same one he once told folktales to right before falling asleep. The same one he rubbed and kissed goodbye each time he had to leave for Hanseong, as if he needed a good luck charm for a journey he made nearly dozens of times.

Now that was all he could stare at, Areum’s hand resting on her stomach. Just a reminder of what he lost. Although did he even have a right to think such things when he abandoned them, one of many thoughts that plagued him since the night he agreed to his grandfather’s terms. Minhwan tried his best to chew on the inside of his cheek, attempting to hide his sad excuse of a maintaining a straight face.

“Why?”

That alone had him shut his eyes. Lips pursed too, holding back the first few thoughts that came to mind. How could he tell her that he wanted to run off with her once again, to hide themselves better from his grandfather and her family too? To tell her that he wished he was there for her since the loss of their little boy? While from the heart, it was these words that would drag them back into trouble. All he could do in that second was shake his head. Despite what was not said, the pain in his voice was obvious, “Why?”

He had to pause before opening his eyes. As he clutched onto the back of his neck, he glanced back to the door. He could make out the shadow of one his grandfather’s trusted attendants, someone he knew would report back every word, painting an essential scene to the Duke of Gangneung.

It felt as if something was stuck in his throat, making it more difficult for him to speak. Deep down, already his heart was breaking from what was to be said next. If he did not say it now, he knew a future even worse was to come. Clearing his throat, Minhwan struggled with his unsteady tone, “You should know by now. We’ve had enough time to figure it out. I cannot do this anymore. I cannot hide like some vermin. I’m more than that. I have a future that’s worth more- more than this, beyond these walls. I cannot have anyone stop me.”

Yet hidden underneath the table were his shaking tight fists. He knew that the instant he said such words it was the end of everything, but it was only as he shot such poison the realization seeped in. If only he could take it all back, but somehow, he continued, “No one. Not you… not our child.”

@✿ seol minhwan —— [ dated: late 1865 ; somewhere in isan, yanggwan-do ] ——

There is hollow where Areum's heart used to lie, and she fears that it will consume her the longer she sits here, in a house that is full of memories with the one that has broken her heart a thousandfold. Her eyes are void of anything but a sense of ache, staring without focus on the wooden table before her, with a skin so pale that she may as well be mistaken for the dead. But she may as well be, and a hand finds its way to her stomach, fingers trembling against the fabric of her clothes. Her visage does not change from its emotionless state, as if there is nothing else that matters; as if she has shut the world out.

(But she knows. Oh, she is all too aware that no matter how many times she shuts the world out, it will come back to her in a wave. And when it does, she knows that she may not be able to take it.)

There is a presence she is vaguely aware of on the other side of the table. Had this been any other day, perhaps his presence would have her overjoyed. Had this been any other day, perhaps she would not shut the world out so stubbornly, retreating to a shell too small for anyone else to enter. Had this been any other day, perhaps...

Perhaps what? There is no changing what has happened. There is no changing that she has lost everything in a blink of eye a second time. She hadn't known back then, when her family fell from grace, that she would still gain something to lose. She had thought back then, that it would only be her life left that she could lose, and that she would devote this life to what remained of her family.

She had nothing to lose, and yet...

A second time again, she loses it all. The world has never been on her side. It has shown her, time and time again, that it does not love her the way she hopes to love it. She should have known, shouldn't she? That the first taste of happiness is often the start of an ending. Seol Minhwan had shown her hope back when she has lost everything for the first time. And yet here he sits before her, and she cannot even find it in herself to look him in the eyes when she asks,

"Why?"

in a weak voice, hoarse from spending the night before and the night before that weeping alone. In this house full of memories, she's held her grief alone, weeping with no one to hear. And yet here he sits before her, and Areum knows. She knows what he will say next. Somehow she knows, and she feels a part of her heart shatter.

(She didn't know that an already broken heart can shatter so much.)