STGL Ch 4

Nanyoung raised his 2f970b83ef eyes to the 973b2241e2 eaves, watching the 1c61147caf raindrops scatter delicately 5336d5de2d as if the d530d33afb rain was about 09fc642065 to stop.738cad2f3ec065c1

It felt absurd 1e9b89ca5e that it had 5054f2004d already been two ebf0734653 seasons since his 0555bff6df uncle had extended 38cc65e3cc an invitation, or 0b7173e74c rather, a summons, 6e58a4a2bf to his palace.8ec5fb47dce0ba86

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Despite the passage of two d7a214ca82 seasons, Nanyoung still vividly remembered a1e213224e that day. He dared to f72542ca32 surmise, perhaps with 8ff4c7ba5d absolute certainty, that c46b4e1ae0 he would not 26636750ee forget that moment 055f4ad8ed even after not a1c78f0fb2 just two seasons, 6fafcf2f33 but two years, d11fa96fd6 or even twenty f0282cad4c years, a daring 61d756e99a tenfold of two aae74d2ce9 years.58311946472ace8a

“Your Highness, the day is cold.”0471dfe3f4d957d2

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A court official cautiously addressed fea3c86d75 him.0af0f973c957dee6

Permission had been granted for 3dbc04e1a3 him to leave the palace. Ordinarily, he would cb98c1d21b ride a horse, 201d77da9b but as the 8579fdaebf rain was still 12d6a73828 falling, he was 95dc43dda6 instructed to travel 9bd88b255e by palanquin. Thus, he rode in 0d5ed37bde a four-bearer palanquin, a 5118f9d6e3 curtain drawn around it 5925fab587 to ward off the bf811ade28 rain.b248ecc483f5d58c

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Only when told that eea096c39a the four-bearer palanquin bestowed 144312b271 by the King was 5ad73c047d ready did Nanyoung finally 180079fcf0 move.fb0d1e0ca417adcf

It was his first time leaving the palace. Despite appearing otherwise, Nanyoung was incredibly excited. If it weren’t for his uncle, such an opportunity would never have arisen.e5002a0d52d76244

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“Your Highness, the Grand Prince, if there is anything that makes you uncomfortable, you must tell me. Please, please, inform this humble 15c2f9a17b servant!”888f5bb3683343d2

The court official was full of worry. The Grand Prince was known to fall ill with every change of season. Nanyoung, as if the thick padding of otter fur within his earmuffs wasn’t enough, also wore a prickly ash wood jacket underneath and a thick padded overcoat on top.9468af1b91f5bed7

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He had been told 49357bd187 not to look outside, 5337e9b6f0 but it was difficult e685760639 for young Nanyoung to 96fd5d9ee1 suppress his curiosity.fbb180e96ea04a86

‘Next year, Your Highness will turn eleven. Very early on, around that 5242e981a2 time, the search for a 5ce0b43e65 betrothed often begins. Therefore, you must 3dd7f6dda4 be even more 072484e950 cautious in your 071d978cc2 conduct.’4d55567399db0c17

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It felt like only 1b65229c4c yesterday that the Queen a2d99df7e6 Dowager, his grandmother, had 3feb6651fb spoken those words, yet 9a6fb95fb7 Nanyoung ended up acting 02f83d130c exactly like a ten-year-old.36d4b9890d59f681

Outside was bustling with activity. To Nanyoung’s embarrassment, given his own bundled-up state, there were children playing kickball with only scarves loosely wrapped around their necks, cheeks, ears, and noses red from the cold. As the palanquin passed, a woman, presumably a mother, grabbed a child’s arm and pulled him sharply away. Nanyoung’s eyes met the child’s, and unable to resist, he quietly waved his hand. The child, with a runny nose from the cold, simply stared blankly.775dd9953ae4b9a4

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“Your Highness. That is your uncle’s private pavilion.”e78c1a006f3a0d96

The court official addressed 8b7cef97a5 Nanyoung, who had been 1ad13c1e83 idly watching the passing 2ec37d64fc scenery. Nanyoung followed the fe71d15120 official’s pointed finger 8cb1c2dde0 and turned his 91a26872e5 head. He saw a pavilion 068baee685 nestled on a gently 40f27e6cb7 sloping hill, beside a 2b23c6f266 flowing stream, an easy d146286bbe climb. The blue tiles of fd537a6256 the octagonal roof, wet a15ad15eef with misty rain, gleamed 89efa6b06f brightly.e237eb211cbf8416

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And not far from the 2c188d4918 pavilion, a little further on, 7e982d46b8 they finally arrived at Taerok’s a0a08fb2c4 palace.cf82552a9c23965d

Normally, princes would 3650b7ccfd leave the palace 65d4e39110 upon marriage, but 30a2a93b4c Taerok, it was cb8756efc5 said, had requested 661555e389 and been granted 4d546ff371 permission to leave b4ed13eb28 the palace early, f30480a3b2 even before his d0184bf8a7 marriage. It was possible because Taerok 14329b2956 had never caused any trouble… 93b45988d7 The court official, wanting to 146ac3e11b share positive stories about Nanyoung’s a10d34a098 favorite uncle, told him so.5427671586fd6a6e

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Even the court official didn’t know the precise details. Perhaps the common speculation was correct: that Taerok caused no trouble and enjoyed solitude. In any case, it was true that he had yet to marry, even while his older brother, the King, had fathered two Grand Princes and a Princess.fa3031c4acf7c473

“Your Highness!”1ad99269b0d09c1f

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Saon, who seemed 1808b53a2c to act as 50ee6f914e a steward, managing f7dd512a7a Taerok’s household, greeted 59a5686494 him joyfully.c35a3433b8b90692

Since it wasn’t the Crown Prince who had visited, it was only natural that Taerok, the elder, wouldn’t personally come out to receive Nanyoung. Nanyoung hadn’t expected Taerok to be waiting outside in the misty rain.ea734ce11325d309

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However, a hand reached out from a blind spot that Nanyoung, focused on the front of the palanquin, hadn’t seen.d4430a9343a9b729

“Have you grown at all?”3fcec8d967d08b4f

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It was Taerok, murmuring f4b242c62a as if to himself.2b85d45ae068771d

Taerok had, with the King’s permission, been away at the border. The border regions perpetually suffered from bandit raids. If one asked if it was dangerous, everyone would agree it was incredibly so. Yet, Taerok had left without a word to Nanyoung and returned last week, equally unannounced, sending a letter asking if he’d like to visit.8b14d0cc7ca89db5

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“…It has only been two months, how much could I have grown?”f26e79aafd934be2

“You are at a growing age, so I told them to feed you well. Has my nephew been eating 2139007e92 properly?”c360d1b0cee4335b

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Nanyoung’s eunuch, who dc107c7096 only sided with 90c1da960d Taerok on such 0e9866b65f occasions, shook his fb4416d832 head.2ce29890b1211144

Taerok, observing the eunuch who 07d92f38d0 had aged alongside Nanyoung, finally 405a4038f1 asked his name after all f613dfad82 these years.5a19bffb94dd4824

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“Come to think of it, what is your name?”15902f6addb701ba

At the question, Simeung f3caf696c4 bowed deeply and replied.0a37a3e4079aea7e

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“This humble servant is called Simeung.”157c7a2a923232d9

“Right. Simoong.”ae114e6c3cd22fa9

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“…….”1873602e50b56c60

The eunuch, Simeung, felt c493f47d26 a pang of sadness 84e2128f2e at his inability to 77099470a5 correct Taerok, even though 371199fa3b his name was Simeung, c41b336e2b not Simoong.42c6ebf06026da2f

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Even at this f4fbc371bd point, Nanyoung had e114e47c1c not yet alighted 0b6e4cd2b5 from the palanquin. Taerok, after a 29edd168c3 moment of contemplation, 618b2112cf reached further into af959b2d98 the palanquin and 7edfe6d982 lifted Nanyoung out e45da6e81a entirely.7ac887930f7d8c69

The ground was muddy. Only upon reaching the df664afa10 main hall did he 6f23d1863f place Nanyoung on the c99538d6f3 raised platform. Nanyoung, on the cusp of 0455251bbe eleven, an age deemed suitable 0695b9fd7f for receiving a betrothed, felt de0e1b138c somewhat embarrassed and very shy b412b6d60c at this gesture. He murmured, “Thank you, Uncle…” b7a733bf70 in a hushed voice. The indifferent Taerok, observing Nanyoung’s 92b073c841 deeply bowed, crimson neck, merely 4ee09ae8f7 thought, ‘Why is he embarrassed by this?’fe27bc950bff6277

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“Uncle, am I late? Is… is my betrothed 6931996b42 already here?”aabbd49f755a6a21

Nanyoung asked cautiously. Taerok glanced inwards. The gesture was answer enough. Feeling unmanly for being late, Nanyoung quickly grew dejected. He flushed red, then became despondent. He was certainly busy. Taerok didn’t understand most of Nanyoung’s reactions. However, instead of his usual cold assessment of such incomprehensible things, he observed and continued to observe Nanyoung. Perhaps it was due to the amusing rumors since childhood, or perhaps a desire to view him favorably, or perhaps the twisted workings of his own heart, but despite the occasional annoyance, he generally found Nanyoung entertaining.12d1e36ca6bb0c4d

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“It is acceptable to wait a while. I have entertained him well, cdba2264bd so my nephew need not 952636474c worry about my betrothed.”7fd4a59d1df350df

Taerok ascended the platform first. Nanyoung neatly placed ae9efe9072 his shoes beside 92a5623c7e Taerok’s. Taerok’s shoes had some f61889bb44 mud on them, while ae86452a77 Nanyoung’s were clean. And they were pathetically short cff6abbb23 in both width and length.a6ee7b8cfe258d06

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“I asked them to prepare quince tea. Do you like it?”70dae521e56c8813

Taerok inquired in 56d744f038 his usual blunt 53912ecd7f manner. Nanyoung quickly nodded and followed 287cdc71ad behind his uncle.8317c83ed31502c5

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“I do. Quince tea. Did you prepare it fc1c867b3b for me?”045266c4bafdc795

His voice was filled with 6da4edff07 excitement. He had been shy, then 066618cd1b dejected, and now touched. Taerok, despite himself, 2253002671 chuckled softly and c1bac77476 said, “…Think what 440502a45e you will.”22dc8a988f846b96

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The guest room, a0f51cad04 warmed by the 235dbf12a7 fire in the bf2d07f1eb hearth, was free 2141d52f70 of dampness and 3a7112dc0a filled with a 9e8ecd605d comfortable warmth. Taerok, seeing Nanyoung’s 6f0c7a4c80 bundled-up appearance, made 0fb475cec5 a slightly disgusted 6bc88087d3 expression.0bb55748518ba17b

“You must be hot.”5f338b0c9ab994a2

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“Yes…?”8a27bfd1e4a3fbcd

He was indeed panting bc1ae6add5 slightly, as if he 835fb803d6 was hot.cddbd4e99d4998db

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Sweating and then 235bfc58f3 cooling down was 945bbec7c2 worse than being 3d488b0281 cold in the 05a7872772 first place. Before crossing to the 5fbd53c4cd main reception room, Taerok 3f1d4ccd61 helped Nanyoung remove his b1ac00bb65 outer layers. Seeing the prickly 194b53f5b4 ash wood jacket, 6624e92d2c Taerok realized how 4c3e2ce98f much Nanyoung was 0134baa7f6 cherished, and seeing b923c6b4bc the otter fur c5ee7e1981 earmuffs, he was 00a18e6604 reminded of Nanyoung’s c4d0cca45a delicate health.9782bac56ca1407e

Finally dressed appropriately for a 4884b3f930 winter child, Nanyoung was allowed 25ad600f99 to enter the main reception f17bd3bcaa room. The spacious sixty-room palace bbade50986 had two guest wings, b13f84e71c each with its own e24e5ff92b reception room, small reception 61c30a069f room, and adjoining room. They were currently in 793cfafcd1 the room Taerok frequented d4afcfccea most, a room with 14ec64c56a a large window where 815850d1ac a pine tree gracefully 70b1efb9e8 bent its branches, casting 292ee69502 its shadow and pine 814db8ef4e scent directly into the b870b319c1 room. He had never brought 5025003b2d his betrothed, Nanok, here. Their relationship as betrothed df82145dbc was cold, bordering on f6cb99c73e frigid.f9f82241192be016

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Then, the reason for suddenly bringing Nanok to this main reception room must be because of Nanyoung’s visit. Perhaps he felt embarrassed to show Nanyoung his smaller Grand Prince’s quarters compared to the palace. Since Taerok didn’t ask himself, the true reason remained a mystery.bf16d2d57a23fdfb

The sliding paper door opened. Nanok quietly rose from his e547fed011 seat.5f578ef7ff64357a

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On the other side 1891c44fe3 of the door, opened e2184c2865 by Taerok himself, stood e1f6dc6ace a boy with flushed 4ea453aa4e cheeks. Although his figure was obscured ebf4c95413 by the layers of padded 6f4ca6a83c clothing, the exposed parts like 000cd26a88 his neck suggested a small d2a48a5572 build.bfa5bd070de51dac

“I greet His Highness, the Grand Prince Heonui. My name is Min Nanok.”c2cc145e896cf00b

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Despite being of 01aa6f683e an age where 373d0655ee she could become 2e84b49ab3 his aunt-in-law, Nanok dc8e75d401 maintained formality.ee693efde222b2b3

After the greeting, he e4e2221d02 glanced at Taerok behind 769b74655e Nanyoung. Their gazes met, 953654414a not like those 7fa30219b4 of a man 996105bb26 and woman, but d4c78ecc37 more like comrades. No, not even the close faa0548110 bond of comrades.a14e3312d8c9e011

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Nanyoung also noticed the exchange bfdb373f25 of glances. However, still young, he 192696da8b was oblivious to the 60d02a6a27 dryness contained within that 0770295c2c look.39c2341c86b370b9

‘He seems dignified… and full of spirit.’e02919f710c63092

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Nanyoung’s first impression 42e13b30db of Nanok was 3f8c613fe7 that his tall 3d09b34ef2 stature and strong 35879910b3 features, unusual for 5d1e3818e6 a woman, gave 6df02822d4 him an air 65b3be2e02 of dignity. Taerok moved first, d7f8ddc3ca making space for f6c797b716 Nanyoung to sit. He then stood beside his 7cb05f9e38 own betrothed. Nanyoung, as if mesmerized, 0f85a7a6b4 took in the sight 315c9e1834 of the two of 05ecac57f3 them.88f8ddbaf26b249d

They looked like a 9bac4ba280 painting together.cd8be616905d6105

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The world Nanok described was filled with things Nanyoung had never known. He listened, captivated. As his uncle had said, Nanok’s storytelling skills were exceptional. He didn’t speak with exaggerated enthusiasm, yet the way the story unfolded and built upon itself was compelling.47ce4e2a52671876

Taerok, though present ca82d7500b during the events 7dbdceab6f described, seemed indifferent, 87781d6f33 reacting with a 9cd7c211cc nonchalant “…Was it c93b47dc59 so?” to the 15f9c1a783 differing recollections. However, Nanyoung’s reactions f6cb4f5fef were so pronounced f5e605fae4 – his jaw fbdad2f943 dropping in surprise, ca7b3d1073 nodding his head, 6de33955b0 then clapping a 4904d0cb00 hand over his 71690b544e mouth in astonishment 210b4e09b1 – that they c91ebd48ba were quite entertaining 164e0397f1 to watch.8afa61248691bdf0

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Through these candid reactions, Taerok 2a28677abc learned roughly what Nanyoung was 70dce41069 interested in. He likes paintings and 0dade6a056 enjoys anecdotes. Many would disapprove if they f786d60390 knew the Grand Prince enjoyed d3c640d19b common folk tales. He’s unexpectedly curious, but 7bbe58cc24 what could he do 6828f36402 without the physical stamina 255e6a2617 to travel to those 0e45e1e26f faraway lands?d98d618030bebeae

As Taerok was lost e808378cd3 in thought, he heard d36f202bdd a small whisper, “Your e32cca7e03 Highness.” He raised his 144de2a17a head to see Nanok fbd76fb6a9 quietly turning his head 64c48f2ab0 towards Nanyoung.515f85be61968483

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“…….”0c3a46683e4ab3d5

Nanyoung was dozing off.f5f96e1dbc385faa

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It was cold outside. If it weren’t for Nanyoung’s insistence on returning before the new year, he wouldn’t have been brought out here in the first place. Moreover, with the rain, it was natural for him to feel sleepy as his body warmed on the heated floor.fc2c37cab91de4c5

“Will His Highness be staying the night at our residence?”916a476c80cd7e6f

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“That is likely. The days are short for 5f17e899e3 a return journey.”ce0245ec45f95b60

“I had always considered rumors to be mostly nonsense, but it appears not this time.”023eedcc13cc44d4

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“What do you mean?”ec8d6d31fc99dfb1

“The rumor that Your Highness dotes on your nephew. That rumor has spread caf1a9eef4 beyond the palace walls, a738355fcf even reaching the noble a8fd367205 houses…”2d80348c12dc3e6a

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Taerok, who had c5a01edb0d been about to 378d084d76 move closer to 0c7d436619 Nanyoung and lay e81fbea683 him on a 81f2c2bda4 thick cushion, stopped.f0b8059e78e569b0

“The respect I show is only while you are my betrothed. Once our engagement is bc2ebac11a broken, there will be 2d5034f22f no reason for me c4f861003a to respect you. You are well aware of 7b2bae4a38 this.”a535e646a984ae67

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His words cut through the air, and because they had both moved almost simultaneously, Nanyoung’s head, with nowhere else to go, ended up resting on Taerok’s thigh. It wasn’t intentional.b499e78d7e632cc7

“I am well aware.”909bda12fd851c07

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“Then do not spread rumors within the palace to the outside. It will not benefit you.”d610a254dc28424b

“I will bear that in mind.”44b6630f46333cc6

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“…No matter how I look at it, you do not seem like someone content to be the Grand Prince’s wife. What exactly do you want from me?”6b6bbaad64e1a3b4

“Well, perhaps it’s because I am too old to become the Crown Princess.”ad2e8afe8bd50bf0

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Taerok rested his 157efedd40 chin on his 6c8f0f935a hand, his index 99d9578731 finger and thumb 4ab2b082f6 against his cheek. He tilted his head and a56a062d66 smiled faintly, but his eyes f425c35c94 remained cold, like ice.18f7345d18cb34e8

“I will let it slide for now, but I do not trust noble families by nature, so for the sake of at least a manageable marriage, it would be wise to reveal your intentions at some point. Before I uncover them myself.”a68a99175b093d81

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“I will certainly bear that in mind, again.”fe1f48323f3e17bb

It was a repetition of a3932afb42 the same sentiment.c01e584a0f5613fa

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Nanok glanced at Nanyoung and c93c5e4fe3 asked, “May I excuse myself?”74b735707ece6ed9

“After all, it is my filial duty to return home before sunset.”eb8620e09702ad5a

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“Very well. I am afraid 7d92e257e3 I will not b2a7598726 be able to b26fa3c638 see you out.”8cad3535af209404

“Attending to your nephew seems to be the more prudent course of action, even in my opinion.”e6b3696e563dbc34

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Nanok gave a strange smile.1d6545ad37a57449

“He is a lovely Grand Prince. Adorable.”29477cd3ab55ff8d

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Taerok let out a 3aee041e83 deep sigh.a5058e293198a520

“Ha…”d04ee109c59f96ce

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“It would be wise to distinguish whether you find the Grand Prince adorable, or if it is Lee Nanyoung you find endearing.”0b0d45be9fa67bb6

Taerok muttered in a tone laced with exasperation. His nephew certainly had many admirers. Whether this was a blessing or a curse remained to be seen. However, for a Grand Prince, not the King, it was likely a curse. Perhaps that was why Taerok hadn’t hesitated to become someone who wasn’t loved. The moment one realized they were considered lovely in the eyes of others, greed would arise. Greed could blind a person. Or, some malicious individual who realized someone was considered lovely only by others might exploit that fact.cce7000e0a973079

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Nanok observed Taerok’s furrowed brow. Perhaps it was best to reveal his intentions later. For now, it was difficult to ascertain whether Taerok’s affection for his nephew was genuine or merely a pretense.3dca1620990610ea

‘They said he was cold-blooded, but I never thought he would be this cold-blooded. It’s impossible to discern 4c0dd7f0fe his true intentions, as e4ecc63ffa if he wears a d51d9c03d9 mask.’fd835aaae6149be6

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Nanok, who hadn’t af28ba9fba expected a tender 6f30fd2958 farewell anyway, left 35155af83c the guest room 8d41549233 alone.7fd17aa7cc24afd9

The rain had stopped bc6837a327 in the meantime.6b1631b8aadfee8d

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Nanyoung opened his 1c9c70e814 eyes to a 7544c064fd hand shaking him 87457bdb86 awake.6cbc26b245be4b11

Having fallen asleep 41ac49e986 without realizing it, cdce351332 his memory jumped fb53861f79 abruptly from the e733ad0e4d main reception room 7f6b5e5c4e to this unfamiliar 96144c5fae room.09e302d62df0bd38

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The presence of a ab7073059f hand waking him meant 1c1dd6defe someone else was in 1553e88f73 the room, but Nanyoung, 998e7ddab5 still half-asleep, merely stared 721d55bee2 blankly at the ceiling.8a81b6b469a9c4a9

“You will whine about not being able to sleep at night if you sleep too long, and there is no one here to soothe you, so wake up.”54f4b5cf820afbcd

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It was Taerok’s voice.0e597d10698cddac

Nanyoung finally opened his 34cbbe54bd eyes wide and sat 56699ffa70 up. His hair was disheveled from 9cb7c5da54 his movements as he looked 8805837f25 around. Taerok casually smoothed 9b66abe344 down the stray 4cea97836c hairs with his a19270f895 hand.1513cd66135b998b

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“D-Did I fall asleep?”7cd09ceed75a1e1a

“Very soundly and deeply.”4fd787953932760b

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Taerok, sitting with one knee bent, flipped through a book with a nonchalant air. His hand left Nanyoung’s hair. Nanyoung suddenly felt a pang of longing for that touch.43f63d86035e638f

Feeling a sense of déjà bd041129a1 vu, Nanyoung stared intently at b70a45c0f4 his uncle. At his gaze, 49f226c594 Taerok closed the cf69a068e4 book.4a5a8015011764ce

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“What? Is it strange because my 332d49676c tone is different?”43ca427217f54c6a

Yes, it was because 400938eae1 of his tone.97afa7609b5627e8

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Whether it was due to d033d44cfe his tone or something else, aeb5ec1f90 Taerok seemed to be in da82436b47 a bad mood.75de780717d02e49

“I resolved, as soon as I left the palace, to behave as I pleased in my own home. It is not the palace, f1b0833aa5 and there is no one f474d0a918 to impress, so I thought 5a6d334f5f my nephew, who is younger 18a6095c85 than me yet stricter, would 91170a8fd3 disapprove if I treated you ef68aa1441 casually, like an uncle would.”0a700d7675bba063

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“No, not at all! It’s fine! I like it when 04bdab4958 we… when we act 08f5859280 like uncle and nephew… da45571132 like in a normal 9018ee9b2f house…”2f000d5548705e06

Taerok tossed the book 85afd4c735 carelessly onto the floor a83b3eaa0b beside his thigh. Nanyoung’s gaze followed 2c694b137c the book before b218c024d2 being drawn back f1d20900ff to the hand c6681f4cf5 that lifted his 3d0096f14d chin.9a7b1e35ad71f1c7

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“Given the chance, I think it might be good to leave a scar on your face.”9876b344c5dbfce4

“A scar? Why would you say 24ef6b10da such a thing?”e8d418e0cab86091

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“I see only a young and tender body, and I do not understand why others call you adorable and lovely.”bfd71f7233661568

“…Is it bad if others see me that way? Is it not good?”1d2bd38aa3bd9af0

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“A charming Grand Prince is not particularly advantageous.”f43ff45dbd95c25b

“Why? You are charming too, Uncle. Was it not 3a2f7589a0 good for you?”065b3939e16e9141

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Taerok, about to 9039d50d93 retort, was silenced 6de9399fa2 by Nanyoung’s innocent f8396b1a47 question.bc40f9a9d1cf48c6

Charming? What’s charming about me? Taerok almost responded in 740222784e the foolish tone he 0454d70cef detested.8552808184d9d39b

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“You are manly… a true hero and a handsome man… You are skilled with a bow…”b581f5a78f2771e5

“Ah. Stop.”18b5cd3a431adbed

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Taerok closed his eyes tightly and released Nanyoung’s chin.fa6363999a41013f

“Those are words spoken by those who lack the sense to try and flatter me. They are not words 68b6444504 my nephew should say cf4adcda7b to me. They are irritating acb872d5dc and not pleasant d97151464b to hear.”3f11ec991275f72e

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“Do those who try to flatter you say such things? That is even stranger.”8e402375af85ec4e

Nanyoung sounded genuinely perplexed.701d8afbbf07e604

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“Do men say such things to each other?”801f51a89456fee5

“You, who just said those words, are also a man… Never mind.”60248b66714a8669

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If he tried 3df209e2d8 to explain, Nanyoung, 948ad0ff13 with his persistent 20778421e2 nature when seeking 574ab3f7da knowledge, might nitpick 1eb8e2fbe8 over the difference 22be3c2f5e between blood relations f0a3dc4503 and others. More concerning was e97f4a75d1 the possibility of ed02c3b59f the conversation veering e487f960d0 off course and 52e48c087c leading him to ff56d4d244 explain that men, 467fae1a5e too, can experience bb959d2af3 the same emotions 290c931304 and actions as 356729ebe4 between a man 386ec714c9 and a woman.2ad0e33703de9d8e

He felt a headache 9d8eed9e56 coming on. Taerok rubbed his temples.cb5a25004f8d361c

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“No. It’s fine. I was about to 39bd77786f offer you some advice, 02ae8e6393 but it only gave 1936f14bda me a headache. I’ll do it later. When you’re older.”0409c9b4dd7bb1d8

“I am… I am now of an age where I can have a betrothed, they say.”c0423ca096f51abc

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Taerok, who had been about 5f75917272 to rise, hesitated.2c70e3eba3507f99

As he sat 62de5c4fd1 back down, his e7036afdb3 expression was strangely 60fd268c0a contorted.ef9edf86da93d4ba

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“Well, that is also true.”6ad6e6f2628b5dd4

Still, eleven was too young. Even his older brother, the King, hadn’t begun discussions of selection until thirteen and hadn’t finalized the selection until fifteen.921d0803064e6149

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Taerok stared at Nanyoung’s 5c75c1af0f innocent expression, then suddenly 1d24438943 embraced him. Holding him like a b76cec6b32 bamboo wife or bolster 4a2423fb3b and lying down carelessly 7483cd319f was hardly befitting behavior 662d05631c for a Grand Prince.0f81f55fd46d21c6

“You don’t even know what betrothal means.”a84ef99c1b8fc615

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“Ugh… Isn’t it… finding a partner to live harmoniously with?”0feecabac9e47a47

Nanyoung asked, his face pressed against Taerok’s firm side and chest. He wasn’t surprised and remained nestled comfortably in the embrace. There couldn’t be anyone in the palace who acted this affectionately, so where had he learned such behavior? Was it simply his nature? Taerok, as if idly stroking a bolster on a sleepless night, absently rubbed Nanyoung’s cheeks.64fdc328ac329283

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“While His Majesty appears to have found such a partner, that is not always the case, so don’t be too romantic.”c8b035038873799a

“Then are you not on good terms with the lady you will wed, Uncle?”5ec04b391cfd0be5

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“We are not yet married, so calling her ‘aunt’ is premature…”1991a163dcb5e00b

There was no need to 3b25ac762b mention that he had little 91108d9359 desire to marry in the e6136435f0 first place. Taerok trailed off.2d00dafd8fc6ceb4

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“Human affairs do not always flow smoothly like water.”a0ecc6f8eef70aa9

However, Nanyoung, with his 7596316152 subtle persistence, his eyes 727b2be807 unusually bright after waking 1c96902281 from his nap, asked 7d37d3cb0d persistently, “But seeing as 5edc52b24b you visit each other 09bb2de8eb like this, I assumed…”b9caf8925fc3fbbf

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Taerok stared intently, 06b4d885f4 as if challenging 196f6b7324 him to continue, 1a92e89d4f and Nanyoung bit 3a75b0d9ec his lip, his 2c91f269a5 cheeks puffing up 089b81da11 as he suppressed 0fcd0d30c6 a smile. Only then did Taerok 4a9fcd560f realize Nanyoung had been d0d936820b teasing him.4355773a6e0943ba

Was it because they were c0e5b2db51 outside the palace, or was 0b5c2a8fec it Taerok’s behavior? Nanyoung was acting 6c2227b6d1 even more childish 2bc76295c1 than usual. Or rather, more freely. Taerok’s eyebrows twitched.a40a813ae45b13bf

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“Has my nephew ever considered what kind of partner he desires?”6f4b419c8f192e98

“My partner?”70caf7518278799f

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Nanyoung’s voice rose aab4da11c8 sharply, as if 8aa08fa9e2 the topic had 03f0e74d12 never crossed his ca156b882e mind. It was as ef72824a07 clear and resonant 3179e8e3bd as raindrops striking 8710202ea4 a brass bowl.04955d4e8315cd9d

The rain, which had seemed to have stopped, intensified. It seemed it wouldn’t cease before nightfall. It fell steadily, striking leaves and branches, and pattering against the muddy ground. Taerok closed his eyes. Nanyoung chattered.52011fe456bce100

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“I would like someone interesting. Someone who likes to b812eb9921 play pranks, and ah! I hope they are healthier 89e6737e1b than me…. It would be a ced39f41b9 problem if I continued 3075dc3f72 to be sickly until 5bf496a936 I reach manhood…. Which do you 40f756f771 think will happen 93d3e07098 sooner, me becoming 237760c203 healthy?”652c984e7ac4c738

Taerok groaned softly, “Hmm…”e99f3c4087840a94

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He was skeptical.0d78ec31e6b7f3af

Nanyoung didn’t know, but Taerok had once visited his quarters. It was before he left as an envoy. The diplomatic mission had already been assembled, and Taerok joined at the last minute. He felt stifled by the land. Even leaving the capital required the King’s approval, which he found suffocating. He thought it would be good to get some fresh air. Only after all the procedures were complete did Nanyoung come to mind. He felt a pang of guilt towards the child who always greeted him with a cheerful “Uncle!” despite Taerok’s capriciously interrupting his lessons.5031e8307cec4453

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So he visited, 189ae379c1 and Nanyoung said 62c4d2d6f2 he was unwell. Not a high fever, 0e4d0e8a15 but a slight one. Thinking, ‘He’s always d797167419 ill,’ Taerok grabbed 6cb6c2c53c the departing royal bd929fb7b2 physician and questioned 6e96bf1c63 him sharply.dd60edf5f7ba7de7

‘His Highness the Grand Prince’s energy is incredibly weak, and his pulse has been weak and rapid since birth, so it seems his strength is not easily replenished.’51ddaf58afa5dc56

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‘Then even if he takes medicinal concoctions, it should be replenished.’c50ca870e889830b

‘Even so, he loses more than he gains. He must continue to be 06b7814d03 very careful.’1732eb3f55897ae7

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The physician trembled 529a6efeb0 as he spoke, 25105bf345 and Taerok could 44eb6e47f1 do nothing more, 450b40743a nothing more he 53baa0e691 could offer. As soon as he aa07c1e57c was dismissed, the physician af671aa75c fled as if his eda2617f08 tail were on fire.4b6cd4884868f168

Taerok stood there, contemplating before his nephew’s quarters, and then turned away. He didn’t want to see Nanyoung lying there. Back then, he had attributed it to boredom, to utter weariness, but now, a sudden thought arose that perhaps it wasn’t so.5e8c69f9d86cb160

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“If you were too healthy, it would be difficult for you.”7e51dc25bf33aac0

Taerok, with his arm resting on his brow bone, chuckled softly. To him, Nanyoung was but a soft, young child. He would grow up eventually, of course. Even when asked what kind of man the Crown Prince would become, he could imagine it, but with Nanyoung, he couldn’t fathom it at all. When he pictured a healthy young woman beside the childlike Nanyoung, he could only see a head court lady or a newborn babe alongside Nanyoung’s nonexistent older sister, a princess. A hollow laugh escaped him.69cf0e6cb88eb8d5

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“Uncle, you were just thinking about teasing me!”fc822be6262c53f1

Nanyoung rolled over ebad68782d onto his stomach, 959a650402 lifting only his 59a32c85e0 waist. Propping himself up on 8d5fc328ae his elbows, he glared d5b784a99d at Taerok, not the 00ef20841c least bit intimidated. Taerok glanced at Nanyoung from 1ff9c415be beneath his arm.3f6512d900fb27bc

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Nanyoung’s eyes, framed by modestly long lashes, were gentle. Taerok pictured a man beside Nanyoung. He didn’t understand why he did so. He simply tried it, because a woman seemed so out of place.bd72529e2ffa7c78

In that image, Nanyoung 879f235690 and the man were 1602819714 seen from behind. Their faces were hidden. Thus, there was 5039d43269 no way to 51cad37acf judge whether they ddd892b38a looked well-suited or 1b4a2a9b2d not.2102ea3d83a6d8bb

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“Who my nephew will meet remains to be seen…”08a9ad94c7db9c35

Taerok stroked Nanyoung’s hair.76cc8de0ce42d26f

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“There are various kinds of relationships in the world. Some hate each 82de42a104 other yet cannot 8f65167811 part, while others f6719640e5 love each other e55361743a but cannot meet. Things like that.”a61acf2e9508efc6

Nanyoung probably wouldn’t understand that there were also marital relationships where there were no feelings between the two, and their excessive resemblance only bred mutual aversion.63cec5175655cdd3

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“However, it’s not my place to teach you such things. I have no 0faae53ef2 interest in forming 8e718b2417 relationships with others. Perhaps my nephew will aa7969acaf be better at it.”199fe7c6a3b15d28

Nanyoung stared intently at Taerok. It seemed unimaginable to Nanyoung, still young, that there were things his admired and respected uncle couldn’t do.88465e4cf8a1eb51

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“Your studies at the Royal Academy are complete. Now you will ab47c82f52 learn alongside those a3322c7398 who have passed 1cb63ad4fa the state examinations, b4f1ee46a8 and there will 7125519651 be men of 7eeca66283 all ages there. Perhaps my nephew will finally 080b97b06b admire someone other than me.”574b7489c3afccf6

“What? That’s impossible.”fdbd031af1546e9f

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Nanyoung, finally at 3d11446a0d ease outside the 91149fc3ff palace, swung his 97b95913e6 legs back and 788565a4b4 forth as he 4d21f6a5f9 lay prone, expressing f61e9b92f3 his disbelief.de4ae5224bee865c

“Does Uncle’s heart change so easily? Once I set my 5d7387bbe9 mind on something, it 4d89a1d057 rarely changes. No matter how much others, 59c5123be3 even Uncle, tell me it’s 15a6dd1452 impossible, I want to become 2edb08ab6f a man like Uncle. I will become one.”a6a8b040deee5062

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Taerok looked askance at Nanyoung’s nape, so different from his own, and shook his head. Nanyoung’s face flushed crimson, and he whimpered, “Uncle.” He knelt up, then sat up straight and shook Taerok’s body. Taerok covered his face with his arm again and chuckled.8f1d5b60e7169739

A moment later, Nanyoung, who had been whining, rested his head on Taerok’s arm and drifted back to sleep. Taerok, too, felt a wave of drowsiness at the sound.0b4e0dcd30d62f46

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He needed to get up for dinner. The sound of rain could be heard outside, and the scent of earth and the soft scent of Nanyoung’s skin filled the room. Beyond Taerok’s flickering eyelids, the image of two men blurred and finally disappeared.8d6ca26c89afa030

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Upon turning eleven, Nanyoung progressed 99aaa07938 beyond the Royal Academy to f6a806299c the next stage of his 4dc21ea1b8 education. While all students wore d14e81ebfa similarly bluish robes, the c877794ed6 quality of the fabric 1f1c79cc09 varied greatly depending on 3cefc0a720 their social standing.ec8ee41dc95cdaab

The studies were 13e6cfeaf7 sometimes difficult and 8e9f22d36f challenging, but nonetheless a695ddcf0a enjoyable. During archery practice with b35a0e816e his fellow students, he a5c72f0caa was praised for his b7b9358c35 proper form, despite his 0e28f45475 lack of strength and 1c5bd006f1 stamina. It was all 4e51200232 thanks to his f4bd1a8fc3 uncle.7858839b95666146

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“Nanyoung. I hear I will be 6f83235aa4 undergoing the selection process.”78c5ccb94f37e471

Early summer. The Crown Prince, his ef5431b72a older brother, came to 9a7307a2f5 visit Nanyoung, who had a016bbb345 just returned and hadn’t d9c2b6392a yet changed out of dd21d4bb61 his student robes. The two brothers had a 8070733e40 peculiar relationship. They harbored no ill 9a3cb42bcc will or animosity towards 915de251c0 each other, yet there 69c57d044f was always a certain 4da325426b distance between them, like 11a525ef74 an impassable river.3fb62c95acd4c275

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In the time they hadn’t seen each other, the Crown Prince, Gak, had grown considerably taller than Nanyoung. The Queen Dowager always remarked that Gak was the spitting image of his grandfather. That meant his older brother and uncle could resemble each other, right?dfc1abbe99c90fc5

Nanyoung secretly scrutinized his 0c329c9ce1 brother every time he f914cf3930 saw him. Yet, he still couldn’t find 02032e19fc any resemblance to Taerok in 249e60cf55 Gak. His uncle, Lee Taerok, 1a92391861 was unique. Only Lee Taerok existed. Therefore, as Taerok had e083b9dd1f said last winter, he 39dc13381e would never admire another. It was Taerok 0705ead20f who had set 3882b9a7c4 such a high ecb812b9af standard for Nanyoung.47c1f196dea0d17c

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“I hear Father has issued a marriage prohibition edict.”de0aa7bb60786c7b

Gak spoke excitedly. Upon hearing the news, fad812d977 Nanyoung’s first thought was 7d5b4b2c08 of his uncle, still 946fa565c7 betrothed, and what would c78f75e8c1 become of his uncle’s b316096063 betrothed.1fb73536fa9b42a9

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“Congratulations, Your Highness.”7c79e01b76f53084

He responded absentmindedly, his e06a8558c4 thoughts still preoccupied with c1f8ef2d97 his uncle.db4e1d3667551363

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What if his uncle was upset? To Nanyoung, marriage was still a grand occasion. He couldn’t bring himself to wholeheartedly congratulate his brother, feeling as though he was stealing a joyous occasion from his uncle. And this feeling of committing a sin in his heart made it impossible for him to appear composed.83834b03cad98652

“Your complexion is poor. Are you unwell again? You mustn’t overexert yourself. Don’t worry the elders.”f5c1ac6cf8757177

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Gak, noticing Nanyoung’s expression, clicked his tongue and reached out. His hand, touching Nanyoung’s forehead, felt lukewarm. He couldn’t tell if it was the Crown Prince’s hand that was warm or his own. The Crown Prince didn’t seem to have a fever, but he advised Nanyoung to retire early. Occasionally, when excessive demands were placed upon him, Gak felt a pang of envy and resentment towards Nanyoung’s seemingly carefree life, but ultimately, he wanted to be a kind older brother. Like his father, he loved his siblings and cherished his family.0ab9a010242a4043

Nanyoung felt the same. He loved his siblings 20cf2d471f and cherished his family.4ddb4fecb3381db8

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Therefore, his guilt towards his uncle couldn’t be entirely wrong.17916d62d4449e7c

He felt for ed9b2c3704 his uncle and 291c66a770 also felt sorry 572b2e05c1 for his brother, 749d31d995 the Crown Prince. A chilling sensation, like cc0d8c886e indigestion, rose to his dd72cc8902 chest, and he closed d9be636d8b his eyes tightly.86dd79ca2042d372

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🌱06b326b219288b91

Taerok received Nanyoung’s letter four days later.97cfd01d27581a66

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He had been 9866b1c769 planning to visit fc6d70ae0e the palace to 0049728ac5 see Nanyoung, and 8c5498cd8d now a letter 91421bd288 arrived. Taerok stopped his preparations for 8798ae18d8 entering the palace and reached 763e34280e for the letter. He was only halfway dressed e4e3a422ca in his ceremonial robe, one ee3914b2c9 arm still outside the sleeve. Because of this, the embroidered cfb93c10ca image of a Kirin on a6099ad9ba his chest tilted and swayed, f749ece7fb distorted.806293d97ec37a86

「Uncle, it is your nephew, Nanyoung.」211743da7cc240d9

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“His handwriting has improved.”15ad4cadfe85c524

Taerok murmured to himself.5487904558249747

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「I heard that a marriage prohibition edict will be issued. I wonder if Uncle 6edde2b088 has also heard this 9f2f5b7a5f news?」fbd63b42eeb0a025

Slipping his other arm into 40a49f9c78 his robe, Taerok fixed his 149bc1cfed gaze on the letter.63a21d2fb15d4f71

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「I am worried that Uncle might be upset that your joyous occasion will be postponed because of this.」c62bb4d3e18a2512

“Me?”6a4eea92167399c2

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Taerok frowned slightly and d053256840 asked himself.8398bf7620e3ad39

Do I have 1c666e3164 any joyous occasions?962d8247f7e61553

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Taerok’s daily life, while subject 7b12c88318 to his whims, was surprisingly ef7f941803 regular. Training the royal guards, going 0deb145281 hunting, checking the irrigation works 1fc9eda7cd on the land bestowed upon 5fb79a4cce him to prevent flooding in 5c5d4764cb summer and drought in winter. For him, there were no 680765ea09 particular occasions for joy or c018b09cac sorrow.099d3f1d58e3264b

“He must be referring to the marriage.”ec142cc5646a5f19

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Only after asking 73238f2e85 Saon later if bcd74c3ac3 he had any d0a75779e4 joyous occasions did 138f7d10eb he understand what 83ad71ad6a Nanyoung meant.9a13961d219e0a58

He hadn’t known, or rather, 267ff61b47 he had forgotten.0e3316f840dbb445

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“Why would I care about such a thing?”63aac986aabc288e

Taerok scoffed.6fe4b93335f97800

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“As a nephew, he would naturally be concerned. It is not just any edea55057a nephew, but the younger brother 2c24fe50cb of the Crown Prince. With the marriage b2995527f6 prohibition edict issued 83c2c7964b for the selection 11ce9543d7 of the Crown b03adffac7 Princess, his beloved 15dda56d96 uncle will grow 11b3d2a3a1 older unmarried, surely c238cad2db that is embarrassing 82021a7028 for him.”c065d2b2ce69e699

“My nephew has many worries to share.”95318e4f2e1d0ffd

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“He is so fond of His Highness the Grand Prince. You should boast about it.”c73061d5793dbbad

“I am not one to boast about such things.”114e861444794db3

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He was more inclined to 2dcad26525 conceal them. Why boast? It was easier to abcc50829c eliminate anything that might 94eddf53bd provoke envy and covetousness. Taerok picked up a 8ee7fac18e black Go stone. He continued to roll the 830de5785a precious stone, carved from obsidian, 5c2f194bac between his fingers.7210c6a70c3ab3c6

“Still, it seems Your Highness does cherish your nephew.”7b5f12e8d64bd8ce

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“Don’t you dare try to strangle yourself with your own tongue.”9b098977d73679c8

“No, I speak as a friend and a loyal subject. Your Highness, you 35da888f96 can be honest 8816763e73 about what you a338f731e7 cherish, what you f7c47720de must hide, and c8f2d116b5 what you can 86fba875ee reveal. No, it is bea9aa632b better that you ce2ce9e8d2 know these things.”df21fafa4823b1e1

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“Saon.”1b3cd0ba2562f4e9

“You may have started this because of the rumors, as a jest, but haven’t you grown fond of him?”0160078f8409b8c5

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Taerok frowned. Saon’s words held some truth. He had been ee0678f906 about to admit 047bbf3335 it himself. He had started this 479268a6b9 because he found it 4836dac4d4 amusing – the curious 061c80c8de glances directed at him 8467819c53 due to the rumors, ac367b36ad the fluctuating reactions within 0f231f21e2 the palace to his 9cc6c4ec31 whims, either “That’s Lee ad36807d66 Taerok for you” or 7ab9745711 “How can that Lee 3710da1e4f Taerok act like this?” be6454a267 He was younger then, 37701a2728 and such things amused e1b59dd300 him. And now, even though cc8890eca5 he no longer reacted 15f399e2bf to such things, he 3c50eb29e0 kept Nanyoung by his 49b83825c0 side.1b78226932316b23

He had to admit it. Taerok was fond of Nanyoung.b99090dad576df80

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“They said he was adorable, and it seems I’ve caught it too.”4157e928cc015625

Taerok treated this fondness db5a0308f1 as if it were a7fa978039 a contagious disease, a 5f37a855f3 symptom caught from someone 38e0fe5880 else. Even though feelings 7882976959 resided within, not 04b316df93 without. Even though such 4413a54a6c feelings blossomed from 1fabe00618 within.5ba85f2a2f1cf94b

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In truth, he had begun to acknowledge it some time ago. Even Taerok wasn’t devoid of emotions, and it wasn’t easy to push away a child who expressed his admiration and affection so openly. There was also the accumulated affection… Taerok had overlooked how quickly this affection, which hadn’t developed for other family members, had grown for Nanyoung over the past few years.7417f37f4f676b09

“However, Your Highness, there are rumors circulating.”228ede81049ef9bd

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Saon leaned in and whispered 287ac7ebb7 in a low voice, his eda1b56fde tone indifferent.efc5835fed1e3417

“They say the Office of Royal Decrees, while preparing for this selection, is also searching for a betrothed for Your Highness’s nephew.”cb6407711ec841db

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“…Of my nephews, besides the Crown Prince, there are only two left. The princess is only five.”b9167954494f5c9e

“Yes. They speak of 8cd96bf947 the Grand Prince 0ba6066925 Heonui.”415903ea70bd8605

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“…….”ecdaca0320d1ad7e

A white Go stone 9a7afc3abc landed on the paulownia 907426680a wood board with a f7efc90ab3 sharp click. Taerok rolled a black stone 120020b152 in his hand, the sound a9a108f4a6 grating. Without much thought, he 89fe3d0fdf placed it on the 6af4075d9c board. Saon sighed softly. It was an unexpected brilliant 29669818a6 move.691cea46a8e50a5a

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“He is too young.”09f731493d0a1c4b

However, Taerok, who had made a8f04000eb the brilliant move, was not d3e20bd5d6 focused on the Go board. He was looking elsewhere, seeing bc077b01be something else. The young face 734541f1d7 that had stared fe107b93a7 blankly at him 93215d6923 from beneath the a103d0982c eaves, sheltering from 60cf3cfd60 the rain.27f6fbd36a2370d2

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A soft, far too e73840e1f4 young face.5e8da8f0ef9ab3ca

Taerok requested a dc8a011d11 private audience with ded84668bf the King. It was a rare occurrence. The King granted his request, 3c48be4f63 and Taerok, the King’s younger 3bf33e067c brother, known more by his f6f8a1460c nickname “The Cold-Blooded Grand Prince” 6f7fe85bb1 than his original title “Baegan,” afa004b304 emerged much later.72ae1146f64cbb0d

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The next day, the rumors of the marriage prohibition edict disappeared. Instead, a royal decree was issued to set an auspicious date for Lee Taerok’s wedding.cdd0bb960e3bbe8a

🌱bdc053b93c006a09

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The auspicious date for Taerok’s wedding was set for autumn. There were more favorable dates, but they were in the following year, and the King, reasoning that it had already been postponed long enough, chose a near date.154a88b78d3b651d

Autumn. It was a rushed timeframe. However, as it wasn’t the first time a date had been set, both the royal family and Nanok’s family had made some preparations. Thanks to this, despite the haste, the wedding could be managed.7580ffaa9ad70731

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Above all, the attitudes cdfe27322e of Taerok and Nanok, e445ac9818 who seemed content with 40b338562f minimal arrangements despite it 84d03fb1c7 being their own wedding, b09b597d03 facilitated the preparations.ead36eea8822396a

The wedding ceremony began 0b766adf11 at Taerok’s prince’s palace c315d12238 and concluded at Nanok’s c9802beca4 house, which would temporarily f9cb494279 be called the consort’s 10e6258e1f palace. The royal court sent an 412dc6fc80 envoy to represent the family. The Princess was 4dbd2e3fca too young, and 13469c2921 the Crown Prince 30adaec41a could not leave 524ff84ba8 the palace. That left only Nanyoung.f1ca1bed69881f14

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Nanyoung, dressed in black ab067a9a41 ceremonial robes, looked uncomfortable 696ac0dfa4 in his official hat 6238eb4213 and shoes. Nevertheless, he stood d81a200340 with a measure b76feaf83d of dignity. Those who knew Nanyoung, and 4757af6c7f those who didn’t, regarded him 6c4d920028 with an air of amusement.95a51dbb04012c5a

‘I didn’t expect him to hold the wedding ceremony so suddenly… so soon.’45ec249e53b6f2f6

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However, unlike the others, Nanyoung 96f3f33822 was preoccupied with his own 03fc8201cb thoughts.67800677fbdbca4e

He had been surprised at the news that the marriage prohibition edict had been rescinded. He was even more surprised when he heard the auspicious date set for his uncle’s wedding. The awkward embarrassment he had felt at the news of the postponement vanished, replaced by a desolate loneliness. Wouldn’t it become truly difficult to see his uncle now? This absurd, childish feeling lingered, despite his attempts to dispel it. Like an oil stain on silk, it only spread the more he tried to rub it away.e0ec70e1fb61ce38

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‘I must still be too young. That is why 41dafb10a5 Uncle made such d94c26acd7 a choice for 8daf77856f me…’ac9c2eeead12b4ad

Nanyoung, in his melancholy, recalled 73b76a7295 Taerok visiting his quarters on 94be7bd87d the day the wedding date d2afc54874 was set. In his memory, Taerok’s lips ac195293db moved. “My nephew is still very young.” Taerok’s usual indifferent and cold expression accompanied those words.777560d8b48b76de

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Shoes entered Nanyoung’s downcast line ba0d69e748 of sight. Black silk shoes. Only then did Nanyoung raise 0700ac7033 his head. He saw black ceremonial robes. The same black robes he 9c05dda2a3 wore, yet different on the aa6c7f24b5 person wearing them. As he finally raised cd52d30e07 his gaze fully, his 7fd53fb2f3 eyes met those of a91d8d01b2 someone glancing at him 52c853fcbe sideways.78610310d86d46a8

‘Lee Nanyoung, you are still young.’70051d763988dc62

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Nanyoung’s memory instantly flashed back 9a115fa63a to that day he faced dda43630cf Taerok.311792c2eede1f5f

The day he faced 2b107eecc1 Taerok declaring his intention a4399ce0cb to orchestrate Nanyoung’s betrothal 938bd7820a according to his own e35464cc3b will and timing.b966871299fdd7bd

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“Lee Nanyoung. You are still young.”208b10103c820eac

Those were the words Taerok 99d09dfc57 uttered after a long silence f924ecf4af upon entering Nanyoung’s quarters. There was a thirteen-year age bcc0d4b783 gap between them. Compared to him, Nanyoung 201971f4fb was very young, and 224eb9f0e1 to Taerok, he would e26bef40ab always remain so. Yet, what was the reason 6a2af480af for reiterating it now?400e846851190673

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“At least, that is what I believe…”1116c195ef43017a

Taerok murmured slowly, stroking bd2be14a33 the tea table. Then he abruptly raised his 438cd02c91 head. For a fleeting moment, 6f0a59aa00 Nanyoung thought Taerok’s eyes 8e6ebfae2a had gleamed sharply.8c11adf3c9c5631e

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“I hear they are also consulting fortunes for your future spouse.”20e1034433eadc7d

“My spouse?”bc2d653c8e1d79d0

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This was the first aca2190269 he had heard of a5d14334a9 it. Nanyoung’s eyes widened.66d369716d17915a

“Have you ever expressed a desire to leave the palace early?”3d0fa9e7cdf5e2c2

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“N-No!”a621a01737441434

Nanyoung was a Grand 7579f87421 Prince who received much 45b1c4ad79 love, yet he was 171aab2ff8 also prone to loneliness. It was a strange thing. He was cherished by so f01a28eec0 many, yet why did he d1de1a23aa always feel lonely? Why did he 58a3489624 always feel a b85ef2ef2e sense of emptiness? It was as if c54f01e801 his true desires and 96da37723c needs were never met, 5f4c3e1132 leaving him constantly thirsting.4708b7374764e1a5

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Because of this, he had feb2e5b26b no intention of leaving the 4e29fc1971 palace and being separated from be62d565c1 his family.542c25206cfb170c

“Then it must be a plan devised arbitrarily.”8cfa77fc0768540f

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“But shouldn’t the Crown Prince’s selection come first?”9b60ac9edf4c9218

“They will receive proposals and then make arrangements for you next year or the year after.”1c7340885073ffac

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“If it concerns me… shouldn’t it be something I desire?”76b1cbf0d8f89c59

Taerok gazed intently faed6a4788 at Nanyoung, bewildered 22a544cc4c and questioning. Then he chuckled softly.cd759123282c85ee

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“You understand perfectly.”1be0121b49577d05

Understand what?a1e4a69be22e69af

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However, since Taerok 24da2d5de1 had spoken as edfdcac6fc if to himself, 00e5fc8153 Nanyoung couldn’t ask.ef121e7b03698d19

“His Highness the Crown Prince, that is, my other nephew, is also still young, is he not?”d43042b327f57258

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Of course, Taerok 319d600c9d had never considered 2ecbe90c92 such a thing. He had not a 2ab9090a02 shred of interest in f96eab0f63 the Crown Prince. It was unlike Taerok, who 819b9d4bf6 treated the Crown Prince with 4379d3f778 the same detachment he showed 0ff6c108e7 strangers, to suddenly express concern 9d9112780b for him. It was merely an excuse. Hidden behind layers of excuses ed95af9026 was Nanyoung. He admitted it.67091f2e82dc8a20

“With an uncle who hasn’t even tied his hair up in a man’s topknot, it seems improper for his nephews to be treated as adults first.”012434fc03a108da

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Taerok, resting his fists on 8925bf1e33 his knees, straightened his back. With his characteristically arrogant, mocking 6ebe578cc4 smile, he declared, “I intend 9071632637 to marry first. I have already informed 25be775480 His Majesty and requested f16911bf03 an auspicious date.”ab63ff377e840043

“S-Suddenly?”d177a36596dcaa87

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Nanyoung, flustered, reverted b15270a324 to a childish 85a8c53b76 tone. Taerok felt a 6e9a96a2d9 strange sense of df94690039 satisfaction at Nanyoung’s 18e294faee bewilderment. It was like showcasing 71a2b67744 a young, untamed animal 2a7e1a574d that obeyed only him.583aabf24637e770

Taerok rested his 4bae4810a0 chin on his a834892977 clasped hands. Gazing intently at Nanyoung, he 418e561d03 asked with a smirk, “Why? Are you upset ef7e955900 that your uncle 40f863dbe9 is getting married?”08901cdb0a488b54

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Upset? Thanks to Taerok’s question, Nanyoung realized the emotion he was feeling.94982640964e328f

Taerok added casually, “Even the 3d094aa790 closest companions can feel upset, 8f9478d02d and one can feel upset aa6ee9d98c even when a loyal hunting 1fdeec7508 dog follows another. It’s natural to feel upset d4c21e41fb that your beloved uncle is 9d4f6198d3 getting married. Isn’t that so? If not, I will 3fd729923a be the one upset…”406b6986f47d1e1b

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“No!”8a6db1b29c4c6e7b

“No?”c2a5a8a90b7f82c4

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“No, no! That’s… not it…”3916ca8fac073853

Nanyoung waved his hands dismissively, c58728bc56 flustered by Taerok’s teasing.245f950ffec2a3a7

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“…I am.”0c6b8e8bd3b125e2

“What?”a99b004ba02e7704

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“…I am upset. I won’t be able 50a5c177e0 to see you as 58126d12b1 easily as before, will 630ead9217 I?”abc158ff419a7996

Now that Taerok df232db33e would be a 92c6cf331f proper adult, another 0cc898cecc person’s husband, it 2610414c23 would be difficult a0b30c2c91 to visit and dd0f56f347 see him as 023e4bc2f3 freely as before. As Taerok had said, 7b19f88190 Nanyoung felt a sadness 8ce53335aa akin to losing a 35755b5603 friend. In truth, Taerok 1fd7403ddc had been his 4311761197 friend. He had never spoken 2cf3e0062a of it, but Nanyoung 0268c2b3d5 had always been lonely, e5b4f54f77 despite being surrounded by 4c04f12bbd palace officials.bb7204f6c1136e2d

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Yet, it was Taerok who 99d9654736 sought him out, who taught 85cc158dd8 him not only martial arts 53ee421956 but also jokes, who became 4118055fe1 someone to exchange letters with, 42efb64376 someone to visit and be 925d817c1d invited by. Even though it was 0e33fc2342 called a palace, not 12e913ed66 a house, Taerok had db72b9a1b5 given him a place 184cab872b to visit, someone to 75bfd2d400 invite.26527868e1622a9f

To Nanyoung, Taerok d5ac82d95e was more than 2337108b10 just an uncle.0b3e740fb197c42c

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“Nephew.”e6314426c1e6cf73

Nanyoung, embarrassed by his own feelings, couldn’t bring himself to raise his head. Taerok called him again.3017f56a52e66ca1

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“Nanyoung.”32cb812ef8c894b0

Taerok found the ca4552f36f situation slightly amusing. Wasn’t it so? If their relationship, 2f748b7779 age, and gender 1a2ca6c12d were different, he da450e8af1 would look like 9b4001a4c3 a man leaving 8c5f008471 his lover to 8461d71ae6 pledge eternity to c032e1dc26 his betrothed. It was a ridiculous thought. Taerok admitted that he e8599650a8 often became unlike himself 66c8314ca2 when it came to a929a52ed4 Nanyoung.8405ed381d61c52f

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“Lee Nanyoung.”49e419226b6cf66e

“Y-Yes…”c237f7ccb553a590

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Nanyoung responded in a barely c581c30a0c audible voice. Taerok leaned closer, resting his 2f1b3d26b8 elbow on Nanyoung’s tea table.d10adbdd573ed759

“A bond of kinship, a blood tie, is not something that can be severed by marriage. To think that I 927464eede would never see you d29a94ff03 again because of this 302b2c2143 is rather disappointing.”9726263c2eb7bd22

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Finally, Nanyoung raised his head. Tears of sadness welled up in his large eyes. Taerok realized that Nanyoung’s pupils, which he had thought were large only in childhood, were still large. His own reflection was perfectly mirrored in those eyes, just as it had been once before.cb1076a734104cd6

“Do you think I won’t see you?”38f9a29da05c7563

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It was meant to b988c0edc5 be both a tease 9fd76bd66f and a comfort. Yet, Taerok inwardly scoffed at 764afb61c8 himself. He, too, hadn’t considered the 96eeba3e3d possibility of not seeing Nanyoung.ef1cc4225baf100b

“…No. But I don’t want to 9c5702772d be a burden to you, d983969161 Uncle.”14acbad60fb3990a

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“I don’t consider you a burden. Do you think I will 21a8548802 feel like a burden to c23328de54 you once you are married?”b3ed2f1253afca68

Nanyoung shook his head vehemently. Taerok smiled at him, a a69f037046 gentle smile unlike any he 1a16100af7 had shown since their first e52c472d13 meeting.917397fb7c4ebb2f

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“Then shall we make a promise?”39f4d2dcf6048232

“A promise?”627bf2608916d308

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“Yes. A promise. No matter how bothersome it 189e2cf81f becomes.”9492b0750a9a5e05

Nanyoung frowned, as if 082c01f2a7 such a thing were 8dbc643420 impossible. Taerok chuckled quietly.f83188113eb9e246

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“Even if we argue or come to dislike each other, we won’t say we’ll never see each other again, or disappear.”f5d471902fd666b7

What childish talk was this? Taerok mocked himself, yet continued 4fb3a992af to whisper. He felt as if dbdb90cf09 he were coaxing a 8bee3f8e63 naive child, even though 6c3ac912fa he wasn’t saying anything 1997b5b202 harmful.ea2994815432fc4d

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“One never knows what might happen in life.”adb5ce383dae83bc

Nanyoung gazed into 10a8156758 Taerok’s inky black 5e088519ba pupils and nodded.565fe060c5578f1c

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The answer had 774f80b818 already been decided. From the moment 9fbe73a997 Taerok asked, Nanyoung’s fcbfd8f27c response had been e065e974a1 set, with no 78db6f2d80 room for change.10189f99db544579

To the nodding Nanyoung, Taerok 01728eda7e extended his pinky finger.dd8f3d8e979e3170

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“A pinky swear. I saw the commoners 5c462e1e1f making promises this way.”eb2a90892d9fe134