In a kingdom torn by power struggles and political intrigue, Jieun, the rightful heir to the throne of the East, finds herself sidelined as her brother, Jungwon, takes control. Determined to reclaim her birthright, Jieun seeks alliances and forms a...
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THE NEXT MORNING, as the sun's gentle rays filtered through the windows, Jieun and Riki sat at the breakfast table, breaking their fast in quiet companionship. The aroma of freshly baked bread and warm tea filled the air, offering a semblance of comfort amidst the weight of their responsibilities.
With a hesitant voice, Riki spoke up, interrupting the calmness of the moment. 'Jieun, there's something I need to discuss with you,' he began, his gaze meeting hers. 'I have to leave for Mistview today. There are matters that require my attention there, matters that cannot be delayed any longer.'
'You're leaving,' Jieun stated, her voice quivering slightly, the worry etched in her eyes.
Riki offered a comforting smile, his hand reaching across the table to gently grasp Jieun's. 'It's just for the day, my love,' he reassured her, his voice tender and filled with affection.
But Jieun's fears refused to be quelled so easily. Her thoughts raced, conjuring images of the past, of the pain and loss that had followed Riki's departure before. The memory of Kazuki's tragic fate loomed large, casting a shadow over her heart.
'No, but what if they come back?' Jieun's voice trembled with anxiety, her grip on Riki's hand tightening. 'What if. . . what if something happens again?'
Riki leaned forward, his eyes filled with understanding and empathy. 'Jieun, my love, I swear to you, I will do everything in my power to keep you safe,' he vowed earnestly. 'The men who sought to harm are gone, their threat extinguished. You are surrounded by loyal knights, and the castle is fortified. I will return to you as swiftly as I can.'
Despite Riki's reassurances, Jieun found it difficult to banish her fears. The scars of their past still lingered, their wounds tender to the touch. She understood the necessity of Riki's departure, the matters that called for his attention in Mistview, yet the fear of losing him gnawed at her heart.
He reached across the table, gently caressing Jieun's cheek. 'Trust in me, my love,' he implored, his voice filled with a mixture of love and determination. 'I will return to you, I promise. We have faced countless challenges together, and we will overcome whatever lies ahead.'
