STGL Ch 2

“It hasn’t gotten longer! Honestly, if you’re so scary, even your kind nephew will end up fearing you.”

“Let him fear me. That child needs to learn a little fear.”

“Isn’t it better for him to be unsuspecting and foolishly smiling, unaware of anything?”

“Saon, he’s a member of the royal family. A Grand Prince. He’s not someone you should speak about so carelessly.”

Saon raised both hands and shook his head at Taerok’s weighty words. There was no sincerity in his plea for forgiveness. Taerok let the frivolous Saon be. Saon’s family, though less prestigious than the meritorious families, was a long-standing military family who had fought barbarians on the frontier since the fall of the previous dynasty. Furthermore, Saon’s memory was an asset. He could overlook a certain degree of overstepping within the bounds of their calculated relationship. As long as it remained within the boundaries he allowed.

Taerok’s boundaries were drawn differently for each person. He was particularly harsh with the meritorious families, lenient with his elder brother, the king, despite not liking his personality, simply because he was his brother, and relatively generous with Saon. However, he hadn’t yet determined where to draw the line for Nanyoung, who hadn’t fully matured.

“By the way, I hear the Royal Household Administration and the Ministry of Rites are searching high and low for your consort?”

“So I hear.”

“You say it as if it’s someone else’s business. It is rather late. Wouldn’t taking a consort brighten up this bleak residence of yours? As someone who married earlier than you, young prince, shall I tell you how wonderful it is to have a partner?”

“No need.”

“Well… You can see how wonderful it is all around you…”

The ‘all around you’ that Saon referred to was likely the king and queen. They were renowned for their loving relationship. It was a blessing. However, the problem was that the couple, being so alike, admired the ridiculous family charades of noble families. And, regardless of the queen’s good nature, her maternal family was like a giant serpent.

“Do you have any preferences?”

As Taerok grasped the last piece of his bow, he trimmed the crookedly grown shaft and selected a feather. As he arranged his bow, he described his ideal partner.

“I don’t like frailty. She must be healthy. I also dislike timid and delicate personalities. I don’t care if others call her rough, I prefer a magnanimous spirit. A poor, even destitute family would be ideal.”

“Those are certainly unusual criteria.”

“Are they? I think they’re rather clear and straightforward.”

“I’m quite curious who will become the Grand Prince’s consort.”

“If your chattering and gossiping connects you to the Royal Household Administration or the Ministry of Rites, spread the word about Grand Prince Baegan’s preferences.”

“Do you take me for a sparrow? How hurtful!”

Despite his feigned hurt, Saon’s expression was bright.

Two days later, Saon relayed this information to a low-ranking official of the Royal Household Administration. Ten days later, the Royal Household Administration sent the biographical details of suitable candidates for the Grand Prince’s consort to Lee Taerok, Grand Prince Baegan. After reading through them one by one, Taerok tossed the list across his desk.

“They want to clip the wings of the royal family while sending the daughters of meritorious families? Tell them to pick one. Just one.”

With those words, Taerok sent the messenger, who was waiting for a reply, back empty-handed.

🌱

“Uncle, are you getting married?”

“Mar, married.”

Sim Eung’s face was etched with astonishment at Nanyoung’s blunt question. Taerok sat down heavily and, observing Nanyoung’s still-imperfect posture, asked,

“Married? Who told you such a thing?”

“I just heard it.”

“It seems there are many loose lips around you.”

Taerok’s gaze swept coldly across the courtiers standing behind Nanyoung. He stood up and adjusted the position of Nanyoung’s wooden sword, which had slipped down slightly.

“I’m not sure whether you’re more interested in your uncle or in resting.”

“Of course, it’s you, Uncle…!”

I must be getting better. Look how chatty he is.

Taerok nodded dismissively.

“Then hold it properly and practice some more. I’m not sure if you’ll ever get married at this rate. Of course, being a Grand Prince, you won’t ‘get married,’ but rather take a consort.”

“Ah…”

“I don’t know about marriage, but I’m planning a hunting trip. So, I won’t be able to visit the palace for a few days, starting tomorrow. Don’t neglect your practice.”

Taerok addressed his nephew politely. However, based solely on his tone, it was closer to casual indifference than politeness. Nanyoung felt a surge of determination. He wanted his uncle, whom he admired and aspired to be like, the most impressive man in his eyes, to stop finding him bothersome. Like most children, Nanyoung, in his confusion, did the opposite of what he should have done to avoid being a nuisance.

“Can’t I go too? Please take me with you.”

Taerok glanced at Nanyoung, who was clinging to his arm. He wondered if he would suddenly shove him away, which he was quite capable of, oblivious to the eunuch’s anxiety.

Fortunately, Taerok didn’t push Nanyoung away. He rolled his eyes and said, “I don’t want to.” His demeanor seemed almost childish, leaving the observing eunuch slightly bewildered.

“Why would I take you, young prince? You’ll be nothing but baggage. Don’t bother your unmarried uncle.”

And then, finally, Taerok pushed Nanyoung away. Even though he barely pushed him, Nanyoung stumbled back three steps. Astonished by his frailty, Taerok looked down at his own hands. Perhaps sensing his uncle’s inner turmoil, Nanyoung slowly approached, looking away and feigning pain, “Ow… That hurts…” All the while, he kept observing Taerok’s reaction. It was a comical sight. Since his visit to the sickroom, Nanyoung had clearly opened up to Taerok.

Of course, just because Nanyoung had opened up didn’t mean Taerok would reciprocate and fall for his tricks. He wasn’t that easily swayed.

“We’ll be sleeping outdoors. You catch a cold just from a chilly breeze, so you won’t be able to handle that. For His Majesty’s peace of mind, you should give up on the idea of following me.”

“Then what if I become stronger? What if I become healthy enough to sleep outdoors?”

Will such a day ever come? Taerok was skeptical. The crown prince had also been sickly as a child, but had become quite robust as he grew older. Looking back, it seemed like his childhood illnesses were just a phase. Now, he rarely even caught a cold.

However, Nanyoung was clearly frail by nature. Taerok tossed his wooden sword, which was three times the size of Nanyoung’s, into the air, caught it, and remained silent. His silence was his answer. Nanyoung’s face flushed crimson.

“Someday, you’ll take me hunting with you, Uncle.”

“Yes, yes. It’s not wrong to have such faith in your elders.”

“You always tease me like that, Uncle.”

“Do I? I always treat you with sincerity, young prince.”

“…Really?”

“I’m joking.”

Nanyoung’s eyebrows instantly drooped. Taerok couldn’t help but laugh. As the small figure turned away and went to the eunuch, dropping his wooden sword, Taerok called out in a low voice, “Hey.”

“What kind of disrespectful behavior is this?”

“…….”

“Come here, young prince.”

Nanyoung clung tightly to the eunuch’s leg and refused to turn around. Taerok picked up Nanyoung’s wooden sword, held it together with his own, and placed his hand on his hip. Even at his exasperated sigh, Nanyoung didn’t turn around. The eunuch, caught between them, looked flustered. Honestly, he thought Taerok was in the wrong, but Nanyoung’s behavior wasn’t appropriate either. However, his protective instincts kicked in, and he quietly tried to appease Nanyoung, worried he might be scolded, “Young prince…”

“Lee Nanyoung.”

Nanyoung, who hadn’t reacted to the eunuch’s anxious attempts at appeasement, flinched at Taerok’s words.

Until now, Taerok had only addressed him as ‘young prince’ or ‘nephew,’ abstract titles that could be replaced by anyone, but now he had called him by his name. Even though his tone was stern.

“Come here, Lee Nanyoung.”

Taerok knew he was being ridiculous. This wasn’t how things were done in the royal family. This kind of affectionate teasing wasn’t his style either.

However, that’s precisely why it was so effective on Nanyoung. Nanyoung slowly lifted his head from the eunuch’s robe and turned around. A string of clear snot stretched from his nose to the eunuch’s robe, then broke. Taerok frowned and inadvertently smiled.

“Uncle…”

Nanyoung reached out his arms towards Taerok. Dark green streaks of tears and snot stained the eunuch’s light green robe. Both the eunuch and Taerok were dumbfounded. Distracted by the comical sight, Taerok unconsciously found himself hugging Nanyoung, who was approaching with open arms. Even if it was just an awkward embrace, bending down and hugging the small back clinging to his legs.

“Don’t be angry… I won’t be disrespectful again.”

“…Grand Princes are generally disrespectful by nature.”

“Still… I was taught not to behave like that with family. I shouldn’t have done that to you, Uncle.”

“Is family that important to you?”

“Isn’t it important to you?”

Nanyoung looked up at Taerok. It wasn’t important. It didn’t hold much meaning for him. However, he couldn’t confess that to the innocent face looking up at him. He had a sudden premonition that this young, stubborn child, cherished yet lonely because of it, would cry for three days and nights if he did. If he heard him sobbing even once, it would haunt him even back in his own quarters.

“Well. Let’s say it is.”

So, Taerok vaguely answered and patted Nanyoung’s back. Exactly three times. Then he pulled away and placed the wooden sword back in Nanyoung’s hand.

“Never drop your weapon again. I’ll show you how foolish that was when you’re older and strong enough to go hunting.”

“…So, are you promising to take me hunting?”

“How did the conversation turn to that? I didn’t say that. Young prince, are you sure your tutors praise you? You don’t seem particularly bright.”

“…….”

“Just grow up first.”

Because he found it tiresome to be harsh, even though he desperately wanted to.

Taerok, who rarely felt tired, must have been unusually exhausted that day because he sighed and stood up. Nanyoung stepped back and started swinging his wooden sword again. He couldn’t imagine the day he would teach this child a lesson about foolishness, or the day he would grow old enough to be married.

That evening, they dined together with the king, queen, crown prince, and even the Queen Dowager, a picture-perfect family scene. It wasn’t proper for a royal who had left the palace to visit casually. Moreover, the general consensus among the elders was that there was no need to summon Taerok to such gatherings, as he was already well past adulthood.

Nevertheless, Nanyoung felt it would have been nice if his uncle were present, and unconsciously voiced this thought after the meal, while enjoying light refreshments.

“Do you like your uncle?”

At his grandmother’s question, Nanyoung snapped to attention. Then, just as he had practiced alone, he smiled as smoothly and healthily as possible. He replied cheerfully, “Yes!”

At his answer, the king, queen, and Queen Dowager exchanged glances. Although they wanted to spend time together comfortably, it was always Taerok who drew the line. Younger children tend to see people honestly, so it was surprising that Nanyoung, despite his innocent nature, liked Taerok so much instead of being apprehensive around him. Perhaps the rumor quietly circulating within the palace, that Taerok favored his nephew, was true.

“Yes… As the sages taught, you must respect your elders. Continue to treat your uncle well.”

As always, the king spoke to Nanyoung in a benevolent tone.

The sun had set. As the days went by, the nights became greedier, swallowing the sun earlier and approaching with faster, bolder strides. The crown prince couldn’t help but complain to Nanyoung.

“Uncle didn’t even glance at me… I never thought he’d favor you.”

Words, once spoken, could not be taken back. The crown prince bit his lip, realizing his mistake.

The position of crown prince was weighty and demanding. While Nanyoung had no expectations placed upon him and no one expecting anything from him, the crown prince was suffocated by expectations. Because of this, he couldn’t help but feel petty jealousy towards his younger brother, who received nothing but affection. It happened very rarely, but… those rare moments of emotion were venomous and deeply shameful.

Although the loneliness Nanyoung knew and the loneliness the crown prince knew were completely different, they were both undeniably profound.

“Your Highness…”

Nanyoung murmured absently. He felt ashamed to face his younger brother, who had lost the weight he had barely gained due to another illness. The crown prince muttered, “I’ll go first,” and abruptly turned away.

As the crown prince disappeared with quick, bold strides, the deepening night settled behind him. The eunuch approached Nanyoung, who couldn’t bring himself to leave, his gaze fixed on his brother’s retreating figure, and tried to comfort him.

“He didn’t mean it.”

“…Right. He didn’t.”

Nanyoung nodded resolutely.

“My brother is just tired. I understand.”

How brave. But also, how pitiful. Despite being brothers, one was the legitimate crown prince, and the other would become a Grand Prince, so their paths would increasingly diverge. Just like Taerok, who was family yet remained eternally an outsider.

Although he said he understood, Nanyoung couldn’t tear his eyes away from the crown prince’s retreating figure. The eunuch very carefully stepped in front of him, blocking his view. Only then did Nanyoung lower his head slightly and start walking. His footsteps sounded lonely.

🌱

Time flowed like water for young children. A year had passed, and it was already summer. Nanyoung, a child who sweated easily, was reading aloud, drenched in perspiration. Unlike before, Gi Heum, who had been the crown prince’s tutor since he was a child, was teaching Nanyoung relatively gently.

“That’s correct. Filial piety is like that. Respecting your parents and, by extension, cherishing the body they gave you. It’s not only about serving your superiors, but also about protecting yourself; that too can be considered filial piety.”

Gi Heum’s voice was very gentle. It also held a hint of pride. Nanyoung learned freely and expressed his thoughts openly. This flexibility wasn’t permitted with the crown prince.

“Shall we take a short break?”

Gi Heum asked with a kind smile. Only then did Nanyoung relax his posture. The fact that he felt tired just from sitting with his back straight indicated that Nanyoung’s health hadn’t improved, even though a year had passed and he had turned six.

A bowl of hwachae was brought in. After being distributed to the king, Queen Dowager, queen, and crown prince in that order, a bowl filled with finely crushed ice in a brassware dish was presented to Nanyoung.

“This is precious, so eat it sparingly, without leaving anything behind, and with a grateful heart.”

“Yes, Teacher.”

A spirited reply. Having once suffered severe indigestion from eating something cold too quickly, Nanyoung carefully scooped the hwachae with his spoon and drank it slowly. It was sweet. A bright smile lit up Nanyoung’s face.

“May I open the window?”

“Go ahead.”

Gi Heum readily agreed. The eunuch, who had been watching, was about to open it, but Nanyoung opened it himself. And by chance, he spotted Taerok passing by.

Nanyoung’s eyes sparkled. Although the moon and stars shouldn’t be visible in broad daylight, the stars in Nanyoung’s eyes twinkled even with the sun high in the sky.

“Uncle!”

Despite Gi Heum’s presence, Nanyoung couldn’t help but call out to Taerok in his excitement.

Taerok abruptly turned his head at the sound of his name.

At that moment, Taerok was in a very bad mood. It was because of the reason he had visited the palace. Summoned by the king, he had a private audience with him. Without preamble, the king brought up the subject of Taerok’s marriage.

‘I hear you still haven’t met Park Changcheon’s daughter?’

‘Is that why you summoned me?’

The king smiled gently at Taerok’s openly bored expression.

‘You’re nineteen now. You should take a consort and set an example.’

‘I don’t need to set an example. I just need to lie low and show my loyalty to Your Majesty when needed.’

‘Don’t belittle yourself like that.’

Despite his serious tone, the king expressed his sympathy for Taerok.

He knew that Taerok was exceptionally talented in many ways. If he hadn’t been the king’s brother, but born into a noble family, it would have been easier for him to showcase his abilities.

‘There are many things you can do as a member of the royal family.’

‘But the elders wouldn’t want me to step forward.’

‘Let’s talk about marriage today.’

A bowl of hwachae was also brought to Taerok. He simply looked at the light pink fruit punch without touching it.

‘If I say I don’t want to marry, is that considered disloyal? Since it would go against Your Majesty’s wishes?’

‘I don’t know about disloyal, but it would be unfilial. As your elder brother, I want to hear why you’re reluctant.’

Taerok’s profile, as he avoided his gaze, was completely different from the king’s gentle features. They looked like they shared no blood relation. Taerok ended up drinking hot tea instead of the hwachae. Although he disliked the king’s gentle and weak nature, he held complex feelings for him as his brother.

‘The meritorious families are already a sufficient threat. There’s no need to give them more power.’

‘Are you against Park Changcheon because he’s from a meritorious family? There are other women.’

‘It’s the same with the others.’

Taerok scoffed. He sincerely wanted to ask whose country this was. However, his brother would give the perfect answer. An answer no one could find fault with. Taerok hated perfect answers. Who decided what the right answer was anyway? Was it the answer that pleased the king, the answer that benefited the people, or the answer that suited the tastes of the meritorious subjects?

‘Speaking of nephews.’

So, Taerok changed the subject.

‘He has no talent for swordsmanship. He’s also frail and delicate.’

‘I’m not asking you to raise him as a warrior, just enough to defend himself.’

Taerok rubbed his brow bone and blurted out,

‘He’s a nephew who will protect himself. And he’s intelligent. Weapons aren’t limited to swords.’

The king’s eyes lit up at his response.

‘It seems the rumors are true, that you really do favor Nanyoung.’

Your Majesty has very low expectations for your son as a father, don’t you?

He stopped himself from retorting. He didn’t want to validate the exaggerated rumors.

It was an unpleasant and irritating conversation in many ways. After the private audience, Taerok walked aimlessly, wherever his feet took him. Unconsciously, he arrived at the place where Nanyoung was having his reading lesson. If the weather had been slightly warmer or cooler, Nanyoung wouldn’t have been there. He would have been somewhere warmer or cooler.

Nanyoung, leaning out the window and calling “Uncle!” lacked decorum. Decorum was expected, but not enforced. That was the level of expectation placed on the younger brother of the crown prince.

“What are you doing there?”

Taerok replied in a low voice.

Nanyoung, delighted that Taerok had noticed him, turned his head quickly.

“Teacher! May I go greet my uncle for a moment? I want to put into practice the filial piety I’ve learned!”

There was no way to refuse Nanyoung’s request. A clever young prince. Gi Heum smiled wryly.

“Go ahead.”

What could he do when the child wanted to put his learning into practice? Gi Heum, as shrewd as he was, readily gave his permission, and Nanyoung immediately dashed out.

Taerok waited where he stood. Nanyoung was running towards him, his arms flailing. They say children smile when they run; he couldn’t tell if Nanyoung was smiling because he was running or because he saw him. His face was round like the moon. Taerok watched with his hands clasped behind his back and, as Nanyoung was about to trip on a slightly uneven part of the ground, he quickly stepped forward and caught him.

“The ground is uneven here. Who is the courtier in charge of this area?”

Sim Eung, the eunuch who had hurried after Nanyoung, glared at the courtier behind him. After noting the courtier, who was avoiding his gaze, he turned back and bowed in apology.

Even Sim Eung, who, as Nanyoung’s closest attendant, had seen them together more than anyone else, found it difficult to understand Taerok’s true feelings towards his nephew. Sometimes he seemed cold-blooded, and sometimes genuinely affectionate, like an uncle. Of course, that affection was based on Taerok’s standards. Even now, he couldn’t tell if he was angry because Nanyoung almost tripped or because of the poor maintenance.

“Uncle, we had hwachae today. Were you perhaps asleep?”

“I didn’t eat it. I don’t like hwachae.”

“Really…?”

The child was surprised by the utterly obvious fact that someone could dislike something he liked. Taerok released the arm he had been holding and stepped back.

“Don’t eat too much hwachae. Didn’t you have an upset stomach recently?”

“You… heard about that?”

“I assumed as much, but it seems it was true.”

“Uncle…!”

Nanyoung cried out with a sullen expression. His uncle was mischievous and often teased him like this. And today, despite his resolve to handle the teasing calmly, he had fallen for it again.

“And you shouldn’t come outside sweating like this. Wipe yourself down and keep your clothes neat. You’ll catch a cold.”

“…….”

What cold in this heat? He wanted to retort, just like his brother would, but Nanyoung couldn’t. He was, in fact, prone to fevers and often fell ill. The royal physician was busier than anyone because of him.

“They say even dogs don’t catch summer colds.”

“…Then am I worse than a dog?”

“Since you’re not a dog, you can catch a cold. That’s because you’re more complex and delicate than a dog.”

Taerok offered a made-up consolation. If one listened closely, it was hard to tell if it was an insult or a compliment. Fortunately, Nanyoung took it at face value. His expression brightening again, Nanyoung tilted his head. He closed the distance Taerok had created, and they were suddenly close again.

“Have… have you ever caught a summer cold, or an end-of-summer fever, Uncle?”

There was no need to think about it. Taerok shook his head.

“Never. I haven’t been sick since I had chickenpox as a child.”

Nanyoung’s face paled with shock. According to his uncle, one caught colds because they were complex and delicate. Then, was his uncle, who wasn’t, a dog?

Reading his confusion, Taerok added, with a smirk,

“It seems I must be a son of a bitch.”

“…N, no.”

If Gi Heum had been present, his face would have hardened. He might have retorted, “Then is His Majesty, your brother, the brother of a dog?”

At those words, Nanyoung wrapped his arms around Taerok’s legs and shook his head.

“You’re not a dog… Absolutely not!”

“Why? What do you know about me?”

Taerok asked without malice.

“Well… you’re my uncle. If I am complex and delicate, then you must be too.”

“Just as there are brothers who don’t resemble each other, there are uncles and nephews who don’t resemble each other.”

“We, we may not look alike, but…”

“Enough with the nitpicking. I’m well aware of your persistence, so let’s just say you’re right. Go back inside. Isn’t it time for your reading lesson?”

It was hot. Taerok pushed his nephew’s shoulder away; children had higher body temperatures than adults. Nanyoung’s expression was filled with disappointment. You’re not even sweating, yet you’re lying about being hot, his eyes seemed to say.

“If you’re late, won’t the Grand Tutor scold you?”

“My teacher doesn’t scold me.”

No one scolded him as much as his brother. Even if he made a small mistake, he was excessively encouraging. He could actually do much better, but he flinched at his brother’s reaction and ended up hiding his true abilities.

“Is that so…”

Looking down at the dejected Nanyoung, Taerok bent down deeply. He had to do so to reach Nanyoung’s ear. Having suffered from growing pains that kept him awake at night from an early age, Taerok still occasionally experienced pain in his knees, ankles, and elbows. He was still growing, and Nanyoung, despite also growing, wasn’t catching up to him at all.

Glancing at Nanyoung, who was awkwardly trying to keep up with him, Taerok swallowed a sigh.

“You must be lonely in the palace, with no friends.”

Taerok, unskilled in offering comfort, simply changed the subject. He figured they would find a suitable child of similar age for him to play with eventually, which would help distract him. Although he would be somewhat displeased if the child was from a meritorious family, well…

“N, no.”

However, Nanyoung hesitated and shook his head.

“I have Sim Eung, and… and you, Uncle.”

Nanyoung gave a carefree smile.

I’m not your friend. Taerok sighed again.

I haven’t even looked for a friend.

A late tutor and no friends. This wasn’t protection, but neglect. Surprised by his answer, Taerok rubbed his brow bone and blurted out,

“Then you can play with me.”

Nanyoung naturally couldn’t understand what Taerok meant, and neither could Gi Heum, who had followed him out and was standing behind him.

“What do you mean?”

Gi Heum stammered. He, too, shared the sentiments of the families who disapproved of Taerok.

And Taerok was well aware that Gi Heum was one of them.

“Since he can’t play with just anyone, he can play with me. Or am I also ‘just anyone’?”

“No. Of course not. However, the young prince should spend time with his peers…”

“I was also once called ‘young prince,’ and now I am a Grand Prince with a title.”

Taerok smiled wryly.

“Though not in age, aren’t we peers in status?”

He knew he was being unreasonable. However, if being unreasonable could give that sly fox a taste of his own medicine, he was willing to be childish. He was grateful to Lee Nanyoung for this. He had learned how to be childish and nitpick from Nanyoung.

“Think it over. Of course, I, as a Grand Prince, know best about matters concerning children born into the royal family. You wouldn’t claim that the Grand Tutor knows more about the Grand Prince’s affairs than I do, would you?”

“Uncle…”

It was understandable for Nanyoung to be flustered by the tense atmosphere between the two adults. Taerok turned around at the tug on his sleeve, and Nanyoung’s teacher didn’t back down either.

“There’s still time left for the reading lesson. Say goodbye to your uncle and come back, young prince.”

Nanyoung hesitated, then pulled his hand away. Taerok, wanting to provoke Gi Heum, spoke to Nanyoung more sweetly than usual.

“Because of that scary old man, we’ll have to meet later.”

“He, he’s not a scary teacher.”

“Good. If he’s being scary, tell your uncle. Well then, I’ll see you later, nephew.”

Taerok put Nanyoung down and patted his small back. Nanyoung, looking back repeatedly, returned to Gi Heum. Unlike usual, Gi Heum held out his hand and took Nanyoung’s.

“We acted like children, fighting over a child.”

Despite his self-deprecating remark, Taerok’s face was wreathed in smiles.

Back in his palace, Taerok immediately began his preparations. The attendants and guards, anticipating his orders, were already prepared and waiting.

It was obvious that Taerok would be in a bad mood after his private audience with the king. Taerok slung his quiver over his shoulder and mounted his horse.

“Let’s go.”

At his single word, they rushed out the back gate of the Grand Prince’s residence. Taerok’s palace was situated with a mountain at its back and a river in front, surrounded by beautiful scenery. Summer wasn’t the ideal season for hunting, but simply riding would improve his mood.

In the end, Taerok’s hunt wasn’t very successful. Although it was the right season, his concentration wavered after catching the first pheasant.

Lifting the dead pheasant, Taerok stared at its glazed-over eye, seemingly lost in thought. At least, those accompanying him thought he was looking at its eye. However, he was actually assessing the pheasant’s weight. He had been wondering why it felt so familiar, and it seemed similar in weight to Nanyoung, perhaps a little heavier, or perhaps a little lighter. To think he was comparing a dead pheasant to his young nephew. It was a terrible thing to do, a sin of the heart. Taerok scoffed at himself and skillfully drained the pheasant’s blood.

Although the scent of blood must have been strong, the scent of iron must have been stronger to the animals, as even the beaters returned empty-handed. Taerok caught two more pheasants before turning back.

“Pick out the good feathers and set them aside. They’ll be useful for something.”

Tossing the dead birds, Taerok gave the order. The cloth wrapped around Taerok’s headwear was slightly damp from the heat. Wiping his face with a wet towel, Taerok tilted his head, looking down at it. He was reminded of Nanyoung, who had looked at him with curiosity, wondering how he remained dry without a single drop of sweat despite wearing multiple layers of clothing.

“I certainly acted out of character today.”

Taerok frowned. He had done something unnecessary because of Gi Heum. He hadn’t had the slightest intention of hugging Nanyoung. Such a sentimental display. The rumor spread by those who couldn’t distinguish sincerity from pretense, ‘It seems Lee Taerok favors Lee Nanyoung,’ was already enough.

“I’m still immature, aren’t I?”

Saon, who was washing his face, asked, “Pardon?” Taerok shook his head and tossed the towel.

“I’m going to bathe. There’s no need to heat the water.”

Taerok’s voice echoed throughout the Grand Prince’s residence.

🌱

While washing his face in the morning, Taerok turned his wet head and snapped,

“What? Who’s coming?”

The servant hesitated, feeling like a criminal facing execution. Taerok wiped his face with the offered cloth. It didn’t erase the fierceness from his expression.

Even after hearing the timid voice again, Taerok frowned in disbelief.

He had told them to do as they pleased regarding his marriage. It seemed that, without his knowledge, things had progressed quite far.

Yes, meeting before the marriage was necessary. But so suddenly…

“Let her come.”

Taerok ran a hand through his hair and nodded. The servant bowed his head submissively. Even though it wasn’t his fault, he bowed even deeper.

Taerok tied up his hair and dressed formally. He had tied his hair up in a topknot even though he hadn’t married yet, despite reaching the age of twenty. Although people said one truly became an adult after having a child, Taerok didn’t care about public opinion. Then… he suddenly thought of Nanyoung at the mention of children.

It had been several days since he last saw Nanyoung. He couldn’t recall exactly how many. Several days because Nanyoung had caught a cold, “that even dogs don’t catch,” as the seasons changed, and then several more days because he had gone hunting; it must have been well over a week.

“Should I just visit the palace?”

He missed his nephew and couldn’t bear not seeing him, so he had to visit the palace; wouldn’t that be a plausible excuse to avoid his fiancée?

However, his fiancée was diligent. Perhaps the Royal Household Administration had been clever, as she happened to live in Anteum, a fertile land in the same region as his palace.

“…….”

Taerok stood with his arms crossed, leaning against a pillar, until the main gate opened. When the gate opened, a maidservant and a man, presumably a guard, were standing there. As their eyes met, Taerok gave a short laugh.

We’ll loathe each other.

Their personalities were likely similar. Their pride as well. He could tell just from a single glance. They weren’t compatible. Didn’t she realize this when she submitted her biographical details?

“Welcome.”

Taerok spoke formally. The woman gracefully stepped over the high threshold. Delicate flower patterns were embroidered on the hem of her slightly raised skirt. Coincidentally, they resembled the patterns on the five-colored silk headband Nanyoung wore.

“Greetings, Your Highness.”

Taerok, who had been reminded of the flower patterns adorned with bats, lotus flowers, cranes, and other blossoms, snapped back to attention.

“Do you like my shoes?”

“…They’re beautiful shoes. You have excellent taste.”

A tense atmosphere, unusual for a man and woman of marriageable age, hung in the air.

Taerok led the woman inside, where refreshments were prepared. What was her name? The list only contained the names of the women’s fathers, not the women themselves. He thought it was foolish. To him, it felt like they were asking him to marry those old men.

“I apologize for my lack of manners, but I don’t even know your name, even though you are my fiancée.”

The woman lightly took Taerok’s outstretched hand and, stepping up from the stepping stone to the main hall, turned to look at him. She had a strong, almost tiger-like presence despite being a woman. Her features were handsome.

“Min Gwi Ong’s…”

“No. I’m not interested in whose daughter you are.”

“…Min Nan Ok.”

Nan. Taerok frowned slightly and smiled. Had he been fated to be entangled with orchids these past few years?

Nan Ok entered. Taerok was already thinking of ways to break off this engagement.

He also considered the possibility that she might break it off first. She didn’t seem like the type to be content as a Grand Prince’s consort, living a quiet life as a spare member of the royal family.

🌱

“You’re distracted today.”

Taerok scolded him, twirling the sword in his hand. Normally, Nanyoung would have looked dejected at his words, but today, he showed a petulant reaction. His back seemed to say, “I know I’m distracted, Uncle.”

Nanyoung’s posture had improved after almost a year of practicing with the wooden sword since he first held it at the age of five. Mistakes were bound to happen at times like this. When one felt like they were getting the hang of it, when it seemed easier. Such periods made one careless, easy prey. The military officers called it being possessed by a ghost. One would flail around as if intoxicated, only to be cut, torn, and ripped apart.

Taerok approached, grabbed Nanyoung, and turned him around.

“If you’re distracted, you’ll be possessed by a ghost.”

Nanyoung, seemingly upset by the low words, complained,

“Why do you only tell me scary stories, Uncle, and never teach me anything important?”

Taerok interpreted his words as related to swordsmanship.

“Because your skills are severely lacking.”

“No! I’m not talking about swordsmanship! I… I know I’m not good…”

You know? That’s good. Even though he knew Nanyoung’s mind was elsewhere, Taerok didn’t end the lesson. Instead, he attached sandbags to the wooden sword. They were so small they didn’t even fill his palm, yet Nanyoung’s wrist buckled when he took it.

“Not your wrist, but here, here. Use your arm.”

“Is, is this sudden increase in weight a punishment because I wasn’t concentrating?”

“It’s commendable that you know you weren’t concentrating. But this isn’t a punishment.”

Taerok fetched his bow. Meanwhile, Nanyoung had to stand holding the sword as if he were being punished. The eunuch anxiously hovered behind him, repeatedly telling him to be careful not to strain his wrist. His wrist was bound to buckle from the strain, but simply being told not to do so wouldn’t make a difference.

In the hot summer, beads of sweat formed on the child’s soft, warm skin. Taerok returned, deliberately slow, and took the wooden sword from Nanyoung’s hand. Then he handed him his bow. Nanyoung’s arm, holding the bow that was almost as tall as he was, dropped straight down.

“This is a black horn bow. It’s heavy. You should start learning archery now, but even a wooden bow is much lighter than this. However, I doubt you’ll be able to draw even a wooden bow.”

“…….”

Nanyoung’s spirit, filled with confidence and admiration for his uncle, wanting to be like him and believing that a man should be like his uncle, crumbled like his arm. He felt a sense of despair, wondering if he could ever reach his uncle’s level.

“I’m nineteen… and you’re only six, so don’t be too impatient.”

Taerok took the bow back from Nanyoung.

Nanyoung felt frustrated. He was frustrated that he was only six, and envious of his uncle’s age.

With a drooping mouth, Nanyoung asked Taerok,

“Uncle, are you getting married…?”

Where did that come from?

“Well… I suppose so. When the time comes.”

“Why didn’t you tell me…?”

“What’s so celebratory about it?”

“It’s a happy occasion…”

A child is a child. Taerok often felt suffocated when he was with Nanyoung. Suffocated… Perhaps it would be better for him to leave the palace and live outside. He was too innocent for this place. Too weak to bear the heavy burden of succession within the royal family.

Taerok knelt down. He still had to lean down further to meet Nanyoung’s eyes. He took Nanyoung’s arm and gazed at him. Nanyoung’s jade-like eyes reflected his image. Could he see himself in those eyes? If so, what would he look like? People often looked different from how they imagined themselves. Just as the image of himself in Nanyoung’s eyes now seemed unfamiliar.

“Young prince. Listen carefully. I’ve already said this, but it seems you’ve forgotten, so I’ll say it again.”

Nanyoung gulped.

“There’s a monster living in the palace. Yes, I know it’s hard to believe. But truly, there is a monster living there. And generally, the strongest and cruelest monster sits in the most noble position. Sometimes, someone who isn’t a monster sits in that position, and if there are no other monsters in the palace, all is well. However, what happens to that person if there is even a single other monster in the palace?”

“…I think they would be in danger.”

“Indeed. Monsters always covet the noble position.”

“Uncle, have you ever seen that monster?”

“…….”

Taerok stared into the innocent, clear eyes gazing at him. He didn’t know. He didn’t understand. He felt pity for him, asking without even knowing what his own words meant. His reflection was visible in the obsidian-like, black, and shiny eyes. Taerok answered, looking at his reflection in Nanyoung’s eyes.

“Yes. I have seen it.”

“Is it scary? So scary it makes your legs tremble?”

Taerok looked at his reflection in Nanyoung’s eyes. And he answered, looking not at Nanyoung, but at himself in those eyes.

“No. It looks remarkably human.”

“Then how do you tell the difference?”

“…….”

Even Taerok couldn’t answer that. He, too, didn’t know yet. Perhaps, in their eyes, he looked like a monster. Who decided who was a monster, who was human?

“I don’t know. But I do know that my marriage isn’t between two people. Therefore, it’s not a happy occasion.”

“…….”

It meant that the aunt Nanyoung had imagined wouldn’t exist.

Nanyoung’s expression was one of confusion. He bit his plump lip for a moment, his gaze darting around before settling on Taerok. His own blurry reflection sharpened again.

“Uncle, are you alright?”

What was he talking about now? Taerok found conversations with Nanyoung difficult. Was it because he was a child?

“Aren’t you upset? I heard marriage… is supposed to be a good thing, but it’s not.”

How simple… However, instead of being annoyed by the naive remark, Taerok laughed.

“Are you worried about your uncle? Are you?”

“Yes… Is that wrong?”

“Yes. Don’t do that.”