STGL Ch 2

“It hasn’t gotten longer! Honestly, if you’re so efdc2b889b scary, even your kind 1d2e05ea30 nephew will end up 4e4045ac95 fearing you.”73c45e7600c29dc6

“Let him fear me. That child needs b5a825869a to learn a 39daaeb1d5 little fear.”41719c0dcdbc5b8b

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“Isn’t it better for him to be unsuspecting and foolishly smiling, unaware of anything?”21fa4c60a89561f6

“Saon, he’s a member of the royal family. A Grand Prince. He’s not someone you should 35c34a662f speak about so carelessly.”ee81a07e08365306

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Saon raised both hands 7ad052c209 and shook his head 05991452b9 at Taerok’s weighty words. There was no 4d099bca9d sincerity in his 86dc1fac54 plea for forgiveness. Taerok let the frivolous Saon 43b7233cf1 be. Saon’s family, though less 4ba4d24a3b prestigious than the meritorious 3a3ed8beae families, was a long-standing 5ecc46a32a military family who had 488456f5be fought barbarians on the 3c5fdd970a frontier since the fall 75c2780697 of the previous dynasty. Furthermore, Saon’s memory was d7604bbd90 an asset. He could overlook 1c083e9843 a certain degree 2298b297d6 of overstepping within ebcb3cd78f the bounds of 8d1f8616cf their calculated relationship. As long as a7bdd0e0be it remained within 0eac77369b the boundaries he 17ca508de3 allowed.92a69bb0f56fe619

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.2031c0fe2ff9968a

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“By the way, I hear the Royal Household Administration and the Ministry of Rites are searching high and low for your consort?”93e77d4218a3fd9f

“So I hear.”1280d6a515fb6057

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“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?”b0341f4724abb4b8

“No need.”5a4779c2bccfd3fd

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“Well… You can see how wonderful it is all around you…”71d7b066ff8ff840

The ‘all around you’ ca3e15e30a that Saon referred to 1bf46e361a was likely the king a4aaa75737 and queen. They were renowned f694dd630d for their loving 8e122cdf1c relationship. It was a blessing. However, the problem 1a3fb58f78 was that the fe37f233c6 couple, being so c3e86a3783 alike, admired the 88f42c4576 ridiculous family charades a162664905 of noble families. And, regardless of the 879636badf queen’s good nature, her 8455787558 maternal family was like df2f2618ed a giant serpent.03f8442d9f3fa48b

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“Do you have any preferences?”673106d53e2ee99a

As Taerok grasped 79652be916 the last piece 2c11527dda of his bow, 73c3b6e26f he trimmed the b8bd35b12e crookedly grown shaft 117896e6ed and selected a e5aaa67315 feather. As he arranged his 48f47fe2f7 bow, he described his 41cbc99e58 ideal partner.66af4277981078c1

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“I don’t like frailty. She must be healthy. I also dislike 6b099b24ce timid and delicate 321c19eaf6 personalities. I don’t care if 462f035cde others call her rough, 3e6bab7851 I prefer a magnanimous 888456a630 spirit. A poor, even e2cacd25f2 destitute family would e0204d1945 be ideal.”f9f10574c07e1d32

“Those are certainly unusual criteria.”9bd12893ee7da859

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“Are they? I think they’re rather clear d18cbeb257 and straightforward.”447d11b172b31d27

“I’m quite curious who will become the Grand Prince’s consort.”9c0c4fbecae68af1

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“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.”aefedf650a2348d8

“Do you take me for a sparrow? How hurtful!”9d990441057e17bb

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Despite his feigned hurt, Saon’s expression was bright.da60170fb8f50b52

Two days later, Saon 22c4ab2b85 relayed this information to fa7e5e8a00 a low-ranking official of 8ad65b58b6 the Royal Household Administration. Ten days later, the Royal 84e785d42b Household Administration sent the biographical 5ff3e5597c details of suitable candidates for 878ee0bedc the Grand Prince’s consort to 5d52127dab Lee Taerok, Grand Prince Baegan. After reading through them 0ace5ff930 one by one, Taerok f5ee81692a tossed the list across be2084bb8d his desk.7779a09eafb9a9bc

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“They want to clip the wings of the royal family while sending the daughters of meritorious families? Tell them to pick one. Just one.”567e92fbaa2ac5c0

With those words, 958c53b05f Taerok sent the a9f7a7cb68 messenger, who was f22fe6e138 waiting for a 90e87a0931 reply, back empty-handed.1fb15d8e2a23b62b

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🌱1faa65b02e438cb5

“Uncle, are you getting married?”262734425f0d0f38

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“Mar, married.”cee107dde0d5491a

Sim Eung’s face was 1013fe8b1b etched with astonishment at 06e13ed4bc Nanyoung’s blunt question. Taerok sat down heavily and, 1c2d75207c observing Nanyoung’s still-imperfect posture, asked,bb96b765777a360d

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“Married? Who told you such a d373e84be6 thing?”4b7e248584118e92

“I just heard it.”1c705c11919387fa

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“It seems there are many loose lips around you.”614616feae910877

Taerok’s gaze swept coldly edd78084cb across the courtiers standing bb04df0c7d behind Nanyoung. He stood up and adjusted 5d3c993203 the position of Nanyoung’s wooden 3967a85ef2 sword, which had slipped down f2369cdc9c slightly.4c24c8a2dacf8978

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“I’m not sure whether you’re more interested in your uncle or in resting.”96b3f651b7bd7aba

“Of course, it’s you, Uncle…!”45bd41fb0bf0cccd

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I must be getting better. Look how chatty he is.e2341491255b7b49

Taerok nodded dismissively.9f929ab8c4ec44a0

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“Then hold it properly and practice some more. I’m not sure fb47f6be6c if you’ll ever d51527df61 get married at 469d9189bf this rate. Of course, being a Grand 9075bb799d Prince, you won’t ‘get married,’ c89a163a18 but rather take a consort.”901e7f0faae66027

“Ah…”ac30037401e2d39e

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“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.”24977d62e3071d40

Taerok addressed his nephew politely. However, based solely on c0807655ef his tone, it was d5b1bbca1c closer to casual indifference 2d8ab3b0d1 than politeness. Nanyoung felt a de85d19285 surge of determination. He wanted his uncle, db4a626f0d whom he admired and afebfc8fda aspired to be like, d311894705 the most impressive man aa913753b9 in his eyes, to 23b20cb50f stop finding him bothersome. Like most children, 123c64b5f1 Nanyoung, in his a155a34c08 confusion, did the c1eac2a707 opposite of what c5e0cfcdad he should have 1517b7266f done to avoid fe31f220e8 being a nuisance.1b8df954da6d45df

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“Can’t I go too? Please take me with you.”10b9dfa55a4a951c

Taerok glanced at Nanyoung, 4ffbab4c67 who was clinging to 38867fb7e4 his arm. He wondered if he would 9b4171d0c1 suddenly shove him away, which cf17469d6a he was quite capable of, c610dd1f8e oblivious to the eunuch’s anxiety.69294396e575482e

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Fortunately, Taerok didn’t 779cebbd2c push Nanyoung away. He rolled his eyes and f1f1fbd2e7 said, “I don’t want to.” fcb7a0c70d His demeanor seemed almost childish, a4380d86f5 leaving the observing eunuch slightly 6a728c3cff bewildered.e1094d6f6455e576

“Why would I take you, young prince? You’ll be nothing but baggage. Don’t bother your unmarried uncle.”f4998875aa3e704b

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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.97514e1246b8a054

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.d2adb6a1f8eb4477

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“We’ll be sleeping outdoors. You catch a cold just 8ea704b5c0 from a chilly breeze, so bb46d3af2e you won’t be able to 35bdadcb41 handle that. For His Majesty’s 206dcc678d peace of mind, b5352933f7 you should give 386c2425e7 up on the 45ae314795 idea of following 9623caf92a me.”04bd2a094768c13d

“Then what if I become stronger? What if I 20db800e53 become healthy enough 65a2e9c426 to sleep outdoors?”6e8d60ac6596c360

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Will such a day ever 4fe975d1c8 come? Taerok was skeptical. The crown prince had also a0556c5cc6 been sickly as a child, 7760ea1955 but had become quite robust 7050f4f3dc as he grew older. Looking back, it seemed like f6520ac778 his childhood illnesses were just 832fe9ba22 a phase. Now, he rarely even caught c3fc4a95f4 a cold.6e921b0f018a7b0d

However, Nanyoung was clearly 1d90b2f0f2 frail by nature. Taerok tossed his wooden 7023eb2777 sword, which was three 5598bbeb5f times the size of fbfa88b7df Nanyoung’s, into the air, 39e5dde2e9 caught it, and remained ca0457beb4 silent. His silence was his answer. Nanyoung’s face flushed crimson.1e7f92c9d05b85b7

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“Someday, you’ll take me hunting with you, Uncle.”a23eaafd1ca4ef93

“Yes, yes. It’s not wrong to have 7c0b37f16b such faith in your elders.”dbcdaeb6674d0ff1

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“You always tease me like that, Uncle.”c01d366d48e99e8e

“Do I? I always treat 12c1edc886 you with sincerity, 41d101e4ee young prince.”be6132700af638e9

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“…Really?”868b2a6329af2951

“I’m joking.”e3c32b2e181bbb69

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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.”104fbffbad2e5f1a

“What kind of disrespectful behavior is this?”4de0bd2c7d19ff0a

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“…….”46bd890240cc78a1

“Come here, young prince.”d4998113fbef513e

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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…”b36b332a6e6d24c5

“Lee Nanyoung.”eaebab13c9714fd1

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Nanyoung, who hadn’t reacted 9e5218e704 to the eunuch’s anxious 222cadfc86 attempts at appeasement, flinched 12c5719ee6 at Taerok’s words.ac27f99ea7fe7cc0

Until now, Taerok had 8abc9a4620 only addressed him as cd3c189c13 ‘young prince’ or ‘nephew,’ b426d630dc abstract titles that could caeb2dd2ae be replaced by anyone, fb8a838f92 but now he had 3dad7003ef called him by his 39c8e47635 name. Even though his baa5c67006 tone was stern.b31de57663227548

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“Come here, Lee Nanyoung.”353531dc1007f7a9

Taerok knew he 4afeb8e717 was being ridiculous. This wasn’t how 58d69fde5f things were done 762742d963 in the royal 37e9c55275 family. This kind of affectionate ef02b00fb0 teasing wasn’t his style 004ce675b0 either.3777b5bb3ca312e9

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However, that’s precisely why it bbcafe37b3 was so effective on Nanyoung. Nanyoung slowly lifted c6eccd612d his head from e3bdd5a09a the eunuch’s robe 249f93ddf8 and turned around. A string of clear snot 64a7eb1fa0 stretched from his nose to 699ff1244d the eunuch’s robe, then broke. Taerok frowned and inadvertently smiled.69306225536f8e22

“Uncle…”3435f63ac0455283

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Nanyoung reached out his arms b0ca0f532b towards Taerok. Dark green streaks ad71940977 of tears and 15ef51ecd6 snot stained the 1cd2e94d53 eunuch’s light green a0960b27e1 robe. Both the eunuch 4ff3aa6b7d and Taerok were 75733c415a dumbfounded. Distracted by the 9230db889b comical sight, Taerok 48ec497b3d unconsciously found himself 227287d41c hugging Nanyoung, who 5b4a0a9aac was approaching with 5d02157fa6 open arms. Even if it was 6dbaa66349 just an awkward embrace, d665b715f2 bending down and hugging 0460303707 the small back clinging ea4df0ff78 to his legs.4529a254bbf4641b

“Don’t be angry… I won’t be disrespectful again.”8702e7a3bde99c56

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“…Grand Princes are generally disrespectful by nature.”0e1fea503c8c783d

“Still… I was taught not to behave like that with family. I shouldn’t have 7c814dce45 done that to f08b72f902 you, Uncle.”3b20234e477a357a

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“Is family that important to you?”8d04364cee6bdd30

“Isn’t it important to you?”db33bc1723389c06

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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.1e3fc33acc640c4a

“Well. Let’s say it is.”ac84aacafb28a16b

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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.575c29fa96c034d8

“Never drop your weapon again. I’ll show you 29afd53e25 how foolish that 242c240902 was when you’re 28ff9370c7 older and strong bcb5168dc5 enough to go 4027d66b8a hunting.”f56397fff2fcf838

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“…So, are you promising to take me hunting?”a4bfd5ab75f10d52

“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.”ed17d0e76d38d4e4

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“…….”a0d368e53f6ce648

“Just grow up first.”00eab16b363db4c8

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Because he found b3043e79e3 it tiresome to 7aa8442340 be harsh, even e35260f7d4 though he desperately 85f03bf7fb wanted to.b216628c8c75a09c

Taerok, who rarely felt 7f23d66e13 tired, must have been a25db16a4a unusually exhausted that day 954464e30d because he sighed and b04c5a354d stood up. Nanyoung stepped back and ed328e5066 started swinging his wooden a8a382a644 sword again. He couldn’t imagine the 378c070e17 day he would teach 0870b32744 this child a lesson 4ae7175c0e about foolishness, or the 90209fdcb0 day he would grow 727ada9318 old enough to be e2733b657c married.fe8f6a7c9cb0b3c6

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That evening, they b9fcbdadd8 dined together with 6d81b589ee the king, queen, 7299553d6d crown prince, and 9a66c159da even the Queen 496453290c Dowager, a picture-perfect 1ff2dfec8b family scene. It wasn’t proper 0707e99289 for a royal e55514a838 who had left ce848fe27a the palace to 508ea3b712 visit casually. Moreover, the general consensus 09a12656bb among the elders was f318aa3c87 that there was no 49d17a6ab0 need to summon Taerok 1fcab8f896 to such gatherings, as f7ffe70c8b he was already well 1910d86494 past adulthood.483da06f87f55ece

Nevertheless, Nanyoung felt it 801c2542bc would have been nice 659832b3b6 if his uncle were 0302ed6f78 present, and unconsciously voiced 2fd5982bd3 this thought after the a4966f413c meal, while enjoying light 59e03297d5 refreshments.e5fd0db5f1d0f2e2

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“Do you like your uncle?”4f8977c7a7f69179

At his grandmother’s question, 349bc4679b Nanyoung snapped to attention. Then, just as he had e6e94d97f3 practiced alone, he smiled as 57576142e3 smoothly and healthily as possible. He replied cheerfully, “Yes!”64d58278d84f3035

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At his answer, the 3752db4d63 king, queen, and Queen 37c964668e Dowager exchanged glances. Although they wanted to spend 8f6c0cdf11 time together comfortably, it was d9e59cdf0d always Taerok who drew the 244f21e817 line. Younger children tend to 14a6c03c2b see people honestly, so e9f25cb2ae it was surprising that ed87c17773 Nanyoung, despite his innocent 52aba44e9c nature, liked Taerok so cb5db6e9ef much instead of being 6c0f2aaaa2 apprehensive around him. Perhaps the rumor quietly e86e85ae22 circulating within the palace, 4fd7b62113 that Taerok favored his da6915b820 nephew, was true.a43581b71805a9cc

“Yes… As the sages taught, you must respect your elders. Continue to treat 6315315a3b your uncle well.”49f4cf59fdf82537

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As always, the king dc578949cb spoke to Nanyoung in e06cf6a3ee a benevolent tone.69e9cdd0c2a49eaa

The sun had set. As the days 38750396f8 went by, the a82781f581 nights became greedier, e07098ceaf swallowing the sun a13d2b97da earlier and approaching a752f2127d with faster, bolder 12a175b491 strides. The crown prince couldn’t help 88d0c17a01 but complain to Nanyoung.37588ba806be5ae3

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“Uncle didn’t even glance at me… I never thought he’d favor you.”4ee65fbb712419a1

Words, once spoken, could 000431e565 not be taken back. The crown prince bit his 7e0662be98 lip, realizing his mistake.f32d76b1877e251e

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The position of crown prince 590fa2d105 was weighty and demanding. While Nanyoung had no e8dae25a2e expectations placed upon him a3b4118471 and no one expecting de22065f0d anything from him, the 772355d8f3 crown prince was suffocated f983e3900c by expectations. Because of this, he couldn’t e15b7bf9ca help but feel petty jealousy 7902b4886e towards his younger brother, who 7f767d5874 received nothing but affection. It happened very 9051fce013 rarely, but… those 173d07097b rare moments of 90e173bb61 emotion were venomous d7da91e9a9 and deeply shameful.3191ff9acc1a216a

Although the loneliness Nanyoung 8aac005291 knew and the loneliness 1eea98fcff the crown prince knew 1885608b68 were completely different, they 3e392efb66 were both undeniably profound.797ff7d0298f6e2c

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“Your Highness…”d7de0692875a4d9f

Nanyoung murmured absently. He felt ashamed 0aa0704bf9 to face his 59798d640a younger brother, who 653c2796ea had lost the 86ec99f7dc weight he had 4d4a7f91f9 barely gained due 7b5b503023 to another illness. The crown prince 6c084f2627 muttered, “I’ll go f112fc2079 first,” and abruptly 7db9f80221 turned away.9d55cf1827a78e11

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As the crown prince disappeared ae3365776b with quick, bold strides, the 9bbcfe3786 deepening night settled behind him. The eunuch approached 6b35b5a798 Nanyoung, who couldn’t 34badf4278 bring himself to aa1f8eb999 leave, his gaze 8dce45c1fb fixed on his f0b2ec1717 brother’s retreating figure, 56adf8b5d0 and tried to 1925434789 comfort him.6476f27b6f7496a7

“He didn’t mean it.”7626217f877d7748

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“…Right. He didn’t.”7c5f525046029508

Nanyoung nodded resolutely.703af58d8e61a4d5

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“My brother is just tired. I understand.”d8d14150fd62655a

How brave. But also, how pitiful. Despite being brothers, one 2ca309b6e0 was the legitimate crown b501b22ffb prince, and the other c1b3853714 would become a Grand dc5ccc93b5 Prince, so their paths 4c5def2acc would increasingly diverge. Just like Taerok, who 50a89db097 was family yet remained 8df6335827 eternally an outsider.180e6a7f9276e213

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Although he said he understood, c56b520a8a Nanyoung couldn’t tear his eyes 98277cc5c6 away from the crown prince’s ff4c885251 retreating figure. The eunuch very 4d601c98e9 carefully stepped in 3ca01e8ef3 front of him, 71713628a9 blocking his view. Only then did Nanyoung 9f44171c1d lower his head slightly 34654d10e3 and start walking. His footsteps sounded lonely.b4e68bd49c0c40fa

🌱72fd46a345a6ee83

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Time flowed like 0fee383d45 water for young 6b9e9bbe57 children. A year had 697624c332 passed, and it e5767698f7 was already summer. Nanyoung, a child who sweated 6a296f1e63 easily, was reading aloud, drenched 828cca1fc5 in perspiration. Unlike before, Gi Heum, 468a6cc3f8 who had been the b01dd1c118 crown prince’s tutor since b02616783e he was a child, 0650ff969c was teaching Nanyoung relatively 045034532f gently.b20d1e9ad93dc81b

“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.”ec28c6a6e7bcb1c1

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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.e7f0dc8f9eb050c2

“Shall we take a short break?”9817ab4ea1bb5664

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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.aef4b4def4e72b3f

A bowl of hwachae e3da8d15e1 was brought in. After being distributed to d19467e288 the king, Queen Dowager, 95e486d3fe queen, and crown prince 9ff75a1fb4 in that order, a 72eb83e408 bowl filled with finely 97631a22c2 crushed ice in a 94fe4fad76 brassware dish was presented e67bad1830 to Nanyoung.588051ff9a7cd91b

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“This is precious, so eat it sparingly, without leaving anything behind, and with a grateful heart.”9230d25833fd49fb

“Yes, Teacher.”36f004cc7c1a5da2

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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.db6ab296dbb02552

“May I open the window?”e7bbaa1a0d39f34b

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“Go ahead.”bf952b685047f842

Gi Heum readily agreed. The eunuch, who cc67b7dab2 had been watching, 410e686cad was about to 1c4a44df13 open it, but 2148577afa Nanyoung opened it edca8f1056 himself. And by chance, he 7a67bcadee spotted Taerok passing by.8f79a72a60efdad6

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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.ecda36662ea350bd

“Uncle!”b756ea6e0f71cd84

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Despite Gi Heum’s presence, Nanyoung 4c8bc5a3f0 couldn’t help but call out fc32561349 to Taerok in his excitement.5c875bad13aff02f

Taerok abruptly turned his b9ad2f7e3b head at the sound 8083a7fbf4 of his name.c8bfc29f4017bf38

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At that moment, Taerok was b4e7721640 in a very bad mood. It was because of 8bffcaee98 the reason he had 19f3ec2fd1 visited the palace. Summoned by the 00ef20a135 king, he had fb5653b678 a private audience 5c6b59218c with him. Without preamble, the king 45662e1d84 brought up the subject 724eecf9e3 of Taerok’s marriage.2814443327020742

‘I hear you still haven’t met Park Changcheon’s daughter?’3902e55caabacc03

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‘Is that why you summoned me?’b8c8573925010f56

The king smiled 5368eec2cb gently at Taerok’s 1b301d6537 openly bored expression.5554a7b41feb6246

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‘You’re nineteen now. You should take a 880ee295c6 consort and set an 3535015ddc example.’a2dbbfa36e42d8b9

‘I don’t need to set an example. I just need to 8ae988df27 lie low and show f887848a69 my loyalty to Your 6cc764ca8f Majesty when needed.’13a888cdc069851e

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‘Don’t belittle yourself like that.’c4bfb2a81824fcea

Despite his serious 5815382922 tone, the king 738536f2ba expressed his sympathy ff65dd2a50 for Taerok.8cc53f4b8b9413b3

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He knew that Taerok was 0ece735eb0 exceptionally talented in many ways. If he hadn’t been 043a02949a the king’s brother, but 394e70bc6b born into a noble 29b39c030f family, it would have 3eaf4d5600 been easier for him d1665a31b7 to showcase his abilities.477d58e689f58143

‘There are many things you can do as a member of the royal family.’164e3887fc296c5f

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‘But the elders wouldn’t want me to step forward.’ef5c5d0d8879468b

‘Let’s talk about marriage today.’a10201fe21110069

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A bowl of hwachae was cc2c36eb9d also brought to Taerok. He simply looked at af4b94af86 the light pink fruit 4faaee8ec7 punch without touching it.8a62098491bccd83

‘If I say I don’t want to marry, is that considered disloyal? Since it would 8f4048af11 go against Your 874fb246a5 Majesty’s wishes?’320445fa5d2a919c

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‘I don’t know about disloyal, but it would be unfilial. As your elder brother, 592bf2afb7 I want to hear 1bf3464b3b why you’re reluctant.’246acacd95184e70

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.cbfa4e323f6df3bd

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‘The meritorious families are already a sufficient threat. There’s no need to b2453a0ad0 give them more power.’0a42bc15b99840a1

‘Are you against Park Changcheon because he’s from a meritorious family? There are other women.’d67cd1530c46d082

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‘It’s the same with the others.’a077382552f64cab

Taerok scoffed. He sincerely wanted to a63ba8f534 ask whose country this 24c63eb1da was. However, his brother would give b2eb9a9051 the perfect answer. An answer no 1a506b45eb one could find 59e72bfd10 fault with. Taerok hated perfect answers. Who decided what the 95233d29bd right answer was anyway? Was it the fb5c229355 answer that pleased 66a0f32528 the king, the 6c553a4171 answer that benefited ef35673406 the people, or 92e2de62a7 the answer that df9b021977 suited the tastes 90a056b449 of the meritorious 53a4b33504 subjects?599c0f420b855aa0

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‘Speaking of nephews.’c89ae9313161c4e8

So, Taerok changed the subject.d7fd7424bbc755a7

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‘He has no talent for swordsmanship. He’s also frail and delicate.’a2fdb605dbd8275e

‘I’m not asking you to raise him as a warrior, just enough to defend himself.’d1757d50b670fc67

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Taerok rubbed his 64325a26cc brow bone and b9f9df7fec blurted out,8213d82a491f0d70

‘He’s a nephew who will protect himself. And he’s intelligent. Weapons aren’t limited to swords.’d5ae204d92719261

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The king’s eyes 05128d6b69 lit up at 65374fd058 his response.bd1f051bf6f8eb96

‘It seems the rumors are true, that you really do favor Nanyoung.’37ec8869dd2a8a2d

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Your Majesty has 9cf1548728 very low expectations c293513854 for your son a51d2b571d as a father, 743da0ddb8 don’t you?632ebc92cdcc4a3e

He stopped himself from retorting. He didn’t want to 2c6bcf919a validate the exaggerated rumors.753a8451d70acee5

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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.65a30418f03f0dd2

Nanyoung, leaning out the window e952912cf7 and calling “Uncle!” lacked decorum. Decorum was expected, d5492a1bc8 but not enforced. That was the level of 56d1947458 expectation placed on the younger baf02e26b8 brother of the crown prince.88f3f0fe9b71a651

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“What are you doing there?”5aba4808afcf3d66

Taerok replied in a 66a40c68e6 low voice.8f3be858f8309eec

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Nanyoung, delighted that Taerok had 655f955550 noticed him, turned his head 5ea3ada6fe quickly.c2649834048e69b9

“Teacher! May I go e3af7fc7ab greet my uncle efff13e904 for a moment? I want to put into 013da4f7ee practice the filial piety I’ve d681282f63 learned!”9c7f14d814deafa1

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There was no way d1ff9f2c4d to refuse Nanyoung’s request. A clever young prince. Gi Heum smiled wryly.5ffe0df86967f18c

“Go ahead.”182b5d41b362374f

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What could he do when a982a49b3c the child wanted to put 4b29df6a89 his learning into practice? Gi Heum, as shrewd as b0873a791f he was, readily gave his 19beb1a318 permission, and Nanyoung immediately dashed 1c2677c82b out.6447704b69a8f250

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.f91e2dbc98da619b

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“The ground is uneven here. Who is the courtier in b17b91b122 charge of this area?”0c8bc05553ab3e6f

Sim Eung, the eunuch 07f16bc4b0 who had hurried after 6ba696163b Nanyoung, glared at the 7bde46a199 courtier behind him. After noting the courtier, who 66f076c335 was avoiding his gaze, he d9186d53e7 turned back and bowed in 854685c98c apology.15dc9b3d7cf1d6c1

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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.57501bc6664a732c

“Uncle, we had hwachae today. Were you perhaps asleep?”feda630ea4ed4643

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“I didn’t eat it. I don’t like hwachae.”44a6dcb690fe46af

“Really…?”062a2f26a7484fae

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The child was surprised 348daef060 by the utterly obvious 5cfb366a53 fact that someone could 3e7ea3fcf4 dislike something he liked. Taerok released the arm he 282b85e04b had been holding and stepped c9fe595103 back.e53e2193dbf228fe

“Don’t eat too much hwachae. Didn’t you have 903a063483 an upset stomach d86fee5297 recently?”84ab2063b15dda55

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“You… heard about that?”80f4f47d678f48da

“I assumed as much, but it seems it was true.”7ab8a980c736ea10

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“Uncle…!”1222a48b03612dad

Nanyoung cried out 4ee3044c5c with a sullen 884a04bb66 expression. His uncle was mischievous 066aa0410c and often teased him 155755e1ac like this. And today, despite his resolve d9de3fae7f to handle the teasing calmly, f0ad3fbcff he had fallen for it 9e883c5639 again.3191e29e4cfcb68d

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“And you shouldn’t come outside sweating like this. Wipe yourself down and c0edf616b3 keep your clothes neat. You’ll catch a cold.”4a8d7a9efaa9dfd7

“…….”f21c4585a41cc897

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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.a93bfd76778cce6a

“They say even dogs don’t catch summer colds.”764b789d4fd7a556

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“…Then am I worse than a dog?”165b5059de6755e1

“Since you’re not a dog, you can catch a cold. That’s because you’re more complex 2caaf85f40 and delicate than a dog.”bb6d7d5653908b84

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Taerok offered a made-up consolation. If one listened closely, c65f2517ad it was hard to 004ef7c97f tell if it was da45d04e28 an insult or a cc8ab3cdac compliment. Fortunately, Nanyoung took it b465cbeed7 at face value. His expression brightening again, 4f62d52314 Nanyoung tilted his head. He closed the 1666cc1baa distance Taerok had 42962e073a created, and they 7dd7247f0e were suddenly close 9aec74cd98 again.c7fc9d5adc5df4c7

“Have… have you ever caught a summer cold, or an end-of-summer fever, Uncle?”c9c8ffa52b44e4ce

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There was no need to 2300849a4d think about it. Taerok shook his head.123394fa74897d66

“Never. I haven’t been sick 854674cb01 since I had chickenpox d34b8408df as a child.”40152d39e3c2e8fc

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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?6761de27984fada1

Reading his confusion, Taerok ddc22a8fdf added, with a smirk,030b83cba9eef5f9

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“It seems I must be a son of a bitch.”5ce5b4f6e8d58dde

“…N, no.”d9f180a2aa072c94

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If Gi Heum 6196f7e04f had been present, 06f881edcb his face would f40e18330b have hardened. He might have retorted, 29f99982a6 “Then is His Majesty, 22add9f4a2 your brother, the brother 015f8dae96 of a dog?”25be8ae892647fce

At those words, Nanyoung wrapped bb1c783760 his arms around Taerok’s legs 9ccb747b1f and shook his head.681805fcc4a34b11

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“You’re not a dog… Absolutely not!”f7d9754064b9ce92

“Why? What do you know 9c0bf3f4ab about me?”1261d90e1f276727

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Taerok asked without malice.80f7c1d81ed48f45

“Well… you’re my uncle. If I am 5d4f8358f1 complex and delicate, 8ae7a882a5 then you must efc8fda44c be too.”a2eda7d0d3ae4330

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“Just as there are brothers who don’t resemble each other, there are uncles and nephews who don’t resemble each other.”3fd9dce9982aac52

“We, we may not look alike, but…”918655c092f110a3

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“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?”e2f708c928cc2838

It was hot. Taerok pushed his nephew’s shoulder 2ffe1b758b away; children had higher body 9bbb59c16a temperatures than adults. Nanyoung’s expression was filled a357a6d5a7 with disappointment. You’re not even sweating, yet 34be16142c you’re lying about being hot, ac35f5cbe6 his eyes seemed to say.075959519d65fceb

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“If you’re late, won’t the Grand Tutor scold you?”bbc36df44cacb084

“My teacher doesn’t scold me.”0f2452225cea989f

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No one scolded him as eabbc5cf1e much as his brother. Even if he made a c24e369c85 small mistake, he was excessively 5a70bea935 encouraging. He could actually do much 266508faff better, but he flinched at b8317be277 his brother’s reaction and ended 80451946c4 up hiding his true abilities.33172d9eb5dd7d3d

“Is that so…”13503ff890f1169d

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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.e1a9d4a66a15156e

Glancing at Nanyoung, who was e8fda016a2 awkwardly trying to keep up 5e6a03c949 with him, Taerok swallowed a 92b5d45963 sigh.0b78b18781ee1962

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“You must be lonely in the palace, with no friends.”890e3fc4e0cc55ba

Taerok, unskilled in offering comfort, bf5eba6448 simply changed the subject. He figured they would 811a55dae7 find a suitable child 010de5b953 of similar age for 76f3493599 him to play with 855f4b08b4 eventually, which would help 36bf67bf0c distract him. Although he would 7558b0d811 be somewhat displeased 53a4c347f9 if the child 12922e5fb5 was from a 4fa0ec52b5 meritorious family, well…20aae9ae104a3906

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“N, no.”1e303dbcfdfd174f

However, Nanyoung hesitated and 43bd1e29af shook his head.1f811e542a59b3c1

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“I have Sim Eung, and… and you, Uncle.”b7af9a88973a7126

Nanyoung gave a carefree smile.82f280509ce52715

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I’m not your friend. Taerok sighed again.c18962b6f3eab6b3

I haven’t even looked for a friend.ff3bb45157883f35

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A late tutor 4f8adfb21b and no friends. This wasn’t protection, but neglect. Surprised by his answer, 3a3f704e0c Taerok rubbed his brow 6754ac8761 bone and blurted out,fb80f959d87de988

“Then you can play with me.”c5093b933b87d9cc

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Nanyoung naturally couldn’t understand what Taerok meant, and neither could Gi Heum, who had followed him out and was standing behind him.98d899f5e354de61

“What do you mean?”71efcea504fdd3a4

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Gi Heum stammered. He, too, shared 9ac7104809 the sentiments of c8f148c4da the families who 7a8e66933d disapproved of Taerok.6bf7f241cbdb4726

And Taerok was 5b1b9eb220 well aware that 9463f56128 Gi Heum was 3daaf89c31 one of them.36bf062952ca2640

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“Since he can’t play with just anyone, he can play with me. Or am I 28bf1c6dd0 also ‘just anyone’?”95c9458c17281886

“No. Of course not. However, the young prince should bb95f0769f spend time with his peers…”2714c07f374ec743

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“I was also once called ‘young prince,’ and now I am a Grand Prince with a title.”3286c6c1364b8bd0

Taerok smiled wryly.337ca62c3a4cdc02

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“Though not in age, aren’t we peers in status?”f9655a7bdc616c56

He knew he was being 88b03cede1 unreasonable. However, if being 1ac525ee98 unreasonable could give 5024274bfa that sly fox 557f77f0d2 a taste of f5684e750a his own medicine, b14d0ff419 he was willing 7f75eee4ca to be childish. He was grateful to Lee ed0cda2eeb Nanyoung for this. He had learned how to a50a7d2d39 be childish and nitpick from f094b30c3b Nanyoung.aaf32ec201cc1127

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“Think it over. Of course, I, as e95e3e2a55 a Grand Prince, know fb145b180f best about matters concerning d4b10b6b47 children born into the a9a7465ed9 royal family. You wouldn’t claim that 95508eadd8 the Grand Tutor knows c766ba5300 more about the Grand 9524684a49 Prince’s affairs than I 29338dd67f do, would you?”09861a758e5ad4fe

“Uncle…”aa75c5d607ede9b6

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It was understandable for e2b76ed333 Nanyoung to be flustered a3b106abb6 by the tense atmosphere 8ff2c283c3 between the two adults. Taerok turned around at 46bad5ad13 the tug on his 4f56136a8e sleeve, and Nanyoung’s teacher 83279a59ee didn’t back down either.6ae506208d790a3d

“There’s still time left for the reading lesson. Say goodbye to your uncle 5659174c50 and come back, young prince.”0d499cd4970f9624

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Nanyoung hesitated, then 97778f1b79 pulled his hand bc6c479494 away. Taerok, wanting to provoke Gi e00f036307 Heum, spoke to Nanyoung more ca860936d6 sweetly than usual.19c139b9062fa0df

“Because of that scary old man, we’ll have to meet later.”af834d918e1034c6

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“He, he’s not a scary teacher.”0d73b0982bf6dc1d

“Good. If he’s being scary, 1ecfbc644d tell your uncle. Well then, I’ll bcf89f5129 see you later, 861a868d5d nephew.”b0582947da9f1df1

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Taerok put Nanyoung down and d663b9aabf patted his small back. Nanyoung, looking back 4e9f7b4f18 repeatedly, returned to 2a10ef7099 Gi Heum. Unlike usual, Gi Heum held 764b005a96 out his hand and took 944a1034d2 Nanyoung’s.83dc8aa24af8a275

“We acted like children, fighting over a child.”d983005abf5cbde4

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Despite his self-deprecating remark, Taerok’s b61362c94e face was wreathed in smiles.0c4861fe8c670d0e

Back in his palace, d1caf6e065 Taerok immediately began his 757adb9731 preparations. The attendants and guards, anticipating 1fb92f51f5 his orders, were already prepared fb14bd8e2c and waiting.e44d83c8034b26fb

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It was obvious that Taerok f6353084a5 would be in a bad 4fe38a16bf mood after his private audience e720440da6 with the king. Taerok slung his quiver over dc84e24894 his shoulder and mounted his cc6928c583 horse.fb3b86c7737bbe56

“Let’s go.”ced2c799eff74a2d

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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.a2b82487ecdfce17

In the end, Taerok’s d9cdb88f47 hunt wasn’t very successful. Although it was a94436cdc5 the right season, 1cfbf9d513 his concentration wavered 968bb7dd01 after catching the e150b7e647 first pheasant.9c22c0b8642245ca

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Lifting the dead 80996d348d pheasant, Taerok stared ae0fa12bb6 at its glazed-over abec3a591d eye, seemingly lost 0dffe3e754 in thought. At least, those 4ca1ff50e8 accompanying him thought 9451c418e6 he was looking 0f53766ddf at its eye. However, he was actually assessing a3338f91f2 the pheasant’s weight. He had been 4049d76d49 wondering why it ddc4168df0 felt so familiar, 42734eb59f and it seemed 911ac4551d similar in weight 4df09b5171 to Nanyoung, perhaps c4f48eff48 a little heavier, 3661f20978 or perhaps a 62bea92a40 little lighter. To think he was 7d683bd1df comparing a dead pheasant 5480f3f0c2 to his young nephew. It was a terrible thing d36d606db7 to do, a sin of be184b8dd3 the heart. Taerok scoffed at himself 256b69d87a and skillfully drained the e04ae7690e pheasant’s blood.5395a5fe86182cf2

Although the scent of 46031aaa25 blood must have been e375ca7743 strong, the scent of 09ec29d6bf iron must have been cd5af18226 stronger to the animals, 2c75d7c9e6 as even the beaters 8ea140df26 returned empty-handed. Taerok caught two more pheasants 9067511944 before turning back.e975e1f0d889815d

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“Pick out the good feathers and set them aside. They’ll be useful for something.”2306fec3059f70b8

Tossing the dead 306a862757 birds, Taerok gave ceb4f117d5 the order. The cloth wrapped around Taerok’s 838e601fba headwear was slightly damp from 2fa7d05199 the heat. Wiping his face 4ff1b04db5 with a wet 51ee7d8e52 towel, Taerok tilted 94d5667e89 his head, looking d41e56f916 down at it. He was reminded of b54466a687 Nanyoung, who had looked 9816d64ac7 at him with curiosity, aa3519184a wondering how he remained 325ed4522a dry without a single 30f5cf21dd drop of sweat despite f86176ce6e wearing multiple layers of a3c0e37fde clothing.1414cbd1acbe3f1c

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“I certainly acted out of character today.”acb23d0952f3a45b

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.9e7ad63ec4580efb

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“I’m still immature, aren’t I?”5f4dbbf9b6ae3a20

Saon, who was washing his 5ca4cdbe3e face, asked, “Pardon?” Taerok shook e9b6c568f1 his head and tossed the fbaf148ab2 towel.f8cfcb94e00def23

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“I’m going to bathe. There’s no need to heat 4e136c3667 the water.”78382203539c09de

Taerok’s voice echoed throughout the 421d1511d0 Grand Prince’s residence.bb0792376de9c5ea

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🌱28246f682465d74a

While washing his face in d31ceec517 the morning, Taerok turned his b2d8f89b28 wet head and snapped,cb691813bcea48d2

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“What? Who’s coming?”722ac942f86242cd

The servant hesitated, dedbcec062 feeling like a 3f667cf980 criminal facing execution. Taerok wiped his a52dc347fe face with the b44d56a113 offered cloth. It didn’t erase the fierceness 3814c65712 from his expression.76a62a5888fc556d

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Even after hearing the timid 90c8a5b94d voice again, Taerok frowned in 5cceeea3c0 disbelief.6c1add4f7cce4c2a

He had told them to ca6c5f4673 do as they pleased regarding 8565be336d his marriage. It seemed that, without his 98d172a882 knowledge, things had progressed quite 079aafd56b far.b6b108bd7baf01ff

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Yes, meeting before the 914c94057f marriage was necessary. But so suddenly…fe471990b6425ddc

“Let her come.”7e32573a400ab446

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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.f0e4f100ab70631a

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.7f7133e4d3de1c5a

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It had been 01e4557e7a several days since 2f2e6e3fb1 he last saw 1ad4e70cbb Nanyoung. He couldn’t recall b71aacaca3 exactly how many. Several days because Nanyoung had 606aa00c5b caught a cold, “that even 46f1d07173 dogs don’t catch,” as the f47fe82684 seasons changed, and then several 6aff59416d more days because he had aaf3ef15fd gone hunting; it must have 97be4e6d11 been well over a week.3cc915b4afd77367

“Should I just visit the palace?”48890ccba04a2364

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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?4585c0568779d034

However, his fiancée was diligent. Perhaps the Royal Household 85784f838f Administration had been clever, 2b24aae8b9 as she happened to 68b4a51916 live in Anteum, a a69729440d fertile land in the e5f22348b7 same region as his 30971dcc8e palace.3758413d4b25946e

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“…….”166c6d3af1c8f06d

Taerok stood with his arms 2a8f0fe7ba crossed, leaning against a pillar, 72de9c95c0 until the main gate opened. When the gate opened, dceb48d012 a maidservant and a 71b4cbae83 man, presumably a guard, 6ec5a8eaa0 were standing there. As their eyes met, fecdf62899 Taerok gave a short 0d8459dfc7 laugh.19acfe1aeb924e60

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We’ll loathe each other.1cc3d2fce701c8f8

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?4669098d67e13b4e

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“Welcome.”d79921b2bf2cdbe1

Taerok spoke formally. The woman gracefully stepped over bccca65ed4 the high threshold. Delicate flower patterns were embroidered 751aa94ead on the hem of her a856acc508 slightly raised skirt. Coincidentally, they resembled d81f2fb850 the patterns on fa32bc8884 the five-colored silk 865d8ad0b1 headband Nanyoung wore.4b4e3ea526b76085

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“Greetings, Your Highness.”3e318ea6a7e54608

Taerok, who had 568157635b been reminded of 21febd402b the flower patterns 5d4d39138c adorned with bats, fceef19870 lotus flowers, cranes, b690cf6013 and other blossoms, ccfd28ef42 snapped back to 442aec30a1 attention.5aeffaea3f3ee50c

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“Do you like my shoes?”c8cce14e1f3eaad6

“…They’re beautiful shoes. You have excellent taste.”84dc39be0ff4b330

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A tense atmosphere, unusual 23624bdd91 for a man and 77f09dfb1c woman of marriageable age, 6b328df2d0 hung in the air.c9b7b5ae1a71c9ac

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.029af118a50b3dc7

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“I apologize for my lack of manners, but I don’t even know your name, even though you are my fiancée.”35a2656ec3bec4c7

The woman lightly a6f2ddb9f3 took Taerok’s outstretched 2299cebefa hand and, stepping 896840db3d up from the b33b288203 stepping stone to 9e07a8193e the main hall, dd4da6a54f turned to look 0f3e0bfa8b at him. She had a 57db414828 strong, almost tiger-like 41bfc40358 presence despite being 91db16d431 a woman. Her features were handsome.2d421605574473ca

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“Min Gwi Ong’s…”a24306a7f140a018

“No. I’m not interested 965410981d in whose daughter 7054a65407 you are.”84f03e1f77ef619f

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“…Min Nan Ok.”83fbd5a52a38e53d

Nan. Taerok frowned slightly and smiled. Had he been 55811e1359 fated to be c6ffaa1faf entangled with orchids 9aacbc867a these past few 55397a96d0 years?15e2fb41dc7aec5d

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Nan Ok entered. Taerok was already 754bc11783 thinking of ways be7b348004 to break off 097d5332a9 this engagement.7851521dc591e8bc

He also considered the possibility b6b8e0f0e4 that she might break it 225f3a547e off first. She didn’t seem like e43b9926c5 the type to be af4c985bf3 content as a Grand 6ffb75b199 Prince’s consort, living a 21ea5ac8d1 quiet life as a a87df67ce3 spare member of the 8a4b177ae5 royal family.9f2b88b5306658f2

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🌱ff5aba2a2d0f6f44

“You’re distracted today.”43d3761d12f6bd67

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Taerok scolded him, 70cc296e03 twirling the sword 68f8a109cb in his hand. Normally, Nanyoung would ab3c0df69a have looked dejected 7742030016 at his words, 09df42fd49 but today, he 77e77b2cce showed a petulant c29454d6b3 reaction. His back seemed to say, d3b6ae480d “I know I’m distracted, Uncle.”7f23c68e577355ed

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.16364bfc0770e453

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Taerok approached, grabbed 52326e1b79 Nanyoung, and turned f2c769e1f8 him around.e3395e5c2e703751

“If you’re distracted, you’ll be possessed by a ghost.”0f9576cf3a6f395a

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Nanyoung, seemingly upset by 660144ac20 the low words, complained,d7c2ac48a4155a10

“Why do you only tell me scary stories, Uncle, and never teach me anything important?”90a6c40404a5381f

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Taerok interpreted his words 7fe713b05a as related to swordsmanship.f9e5c9db3a9f5d2f

“Because your skills are severely lacking.”3d907dfb2f9846c4

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“No! I’m not talking about swordsmanship! I… I know I’m not d584efbe0f good…”053852d6300154b2

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.441354106f7eb506

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“Not your wrist, but here, here. Use your arm.”febfe3a6afc57749

“Is, is this sudden increase in weight a punishment because I wasn’t concentrating?”81a0631afdaff6ce

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“It’s commendable that you know you weren’t concentrating. But this isn’t a punishment.”ff8b2e23428ea258

Taerok fetched his bow. Meanwhile, Nanyoung had to 1abbb12a0c stand holding the sword ab08a5e46a as if he were 8289738299 being punished. The eunuch anxiously hovered 37f310392d behind him, repeatedly telling b61be1c30a him to be careful 5bd2eac972 not to strain his 8ed71bf849 wrist. His wrist was bound to 17a0128505 buckle from the strain, but d5b769c43e simply being told not to 850f19b62b do so wouldn’t make a ca5198d1f9 difference.2000bac3bb75feac

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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.9388788f30c84309

“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.”b5722a0e7ed5e1f1

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“…….”16183a1dcfe72ca4

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.4a80f5a6d973ec12

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“I’m nineteen… and you’re only six, so don’t be too impatient.”6055c5982d17a497

Taerok took the 545a94126f bow back from ab064b6846 Nanyoung.7e99c93b36fbc898

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Nanyoung felt frustrated. He was frustrated c674ad260a that he was 3a033b2406 only six, and d56ba6156e envious of his 39fc1fadc6 uncle’s age.2db7ca579239435e

With a drooping a3effe8f30 mouth, Nanyoung asked bc620d9c4b Taerok,8007ff79177399d8

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“Uncle, are you getting married…?”5bf7a9871186f73a

Where did that come from?ae09da673f8e6dfb

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“Well… I suppose so. When the time comes.”509a67683900cb78

“Why didn’t you tell me…?”baa65739428b86c1

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“What’s so celebratory about it?”98b4a79d2f4067d6

“It’s a happy occasion…”c6afd1fadd1a2a9e

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A child is a child. Taerok often felt 0e732c035b suffocated when he 62c8a45f41 was with Nanyoung. Suffocated… Perhaps it would 06afcb1d9c be better for him 0b1edd54d2 to leave the palace fd707e3071 and live outside. He was too innocent for 940d815953 this place. Too weak to 72568dd773 bear the heavy 9a4b73c8a0 burden of succession f0e6de1e97 within the royal 3a1c4d49da family.9c9ad27511c078ef

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.c25deb098445487c

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“Young prince. Listen carefully. I’ve already said 27e337f084 this, but it 15d704f5d0 seems you’ve forgotten, b7ecbdf2ad so I’ll say 631bdf15e3 it again.”16df597c8a82756e

Nanyoung gulped.1bb95065becc77e9

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“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?”3116ebf9c3c083e7

“…I think they would be in danger.”03e2aac7b0572eea

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“Indeed. Monsters always covet 6c5d2aab65 the noble position.”c83215b72860ba26

“Uncle, have you ever seen that monster?”1900d78348ceda16

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“…….”3394172741aacbf2

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.c5f7e0d0b0201143

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“Yes. I have seen it.”d24c2bf82e692410

“Is it scary? So scary it 218e7c92a3 makes your legs abad2492a7 tremble?”65e3093204f305ad

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Taerok looked at his reflection 631cdfc280 in Nanyoung’s eyes. And he answered, looking 11926dd9d3 not at Nanyoung, but 7d1d3f0386 at himself in those a6cb7175ca eyes.fc8c24eb38501c8e

“No. It looks remarkably human.”3e93d173d83976fc

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“Then how do you tell the difference?”6d64a3a799d2b968

“…….”bcbd5bdc67d52da7

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Even Taerok couldn’t answer that. He, too, didn’t know yet. Perhaps, in their eyes, 4262c56895 he looked like a dd9a4526bb monster. Who decided who was 60505abe0a a monster, who was 8c6335e75a human?6d6155e3fd9b8ca8

“I don’t know. But I do know 1009ec624c that my marriage isn’t 645fb8c177 between two people. Therefore, it’s not ce746e7759 a happy occasion.”269c4a9c1c4900ca

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“…….”b7430ba66a211346

It meant that the f580c05df3 aunt Nanyoung had imagined 6f127c145a wouldn’t exist.04a6c4d9899e67df

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Nanyoung’s expression was one 48089e2945 of confusion. He bit his plump 88a674b672 lip for a moment, 8f16b86376 his gaze darting around b06387d3d2 before settling on Taerok. His own blurry 2189bd625c reflection sharpened again.4b00831d86d4b5b4

“Uncle, are you alright?”a8128bff20c032fb

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What was he talking about 151b4dccc2 now? Taerok found conversations with 25fdac7082 Nanyoung difficult. Was it because b9ee651b86 he was a 7806b8a74f child?47036ffa8d25e9b8

“Aren’t you upset? I heard marriage… d713b20ff5 is supposed to 924c88f422 be a good 8b5543791c thing, but it’s 8ca7d4be61 not.”9588eb460f908373

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How simple… However, 3b22d03f06 instead of being 42ae0cda3b annoyed by the 24ad82a080 naive remark, Taerok cf080516fd laughed.7fd6c5ce62292e41

“Are you worried about your uncle? Are you?”c2188f484ecfaa80

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“Yes… Is that wrong?”90337a263cf4329f

“Yes. Don’t do that.”d673128efb09421a

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