Daldal: Main story

Chapter 38

On a clear day where not a single cloud was in sight, the winter stubbornly sent a chill through the air, yet spring refused to yield, announcing its presence with warm sunlight.

Today, once again leaving the slumbering young master behind, Eun-oh ventured out early, skillfully preparing a hearty breakfast in the half-light. His diligent chewing, with a bowl full of rice and side dishes, reached a point that could even captivate the taste buds of onlookers. Returning the empty bowl to the kitchen, Eun-oh was met with approval from Mrs. Ok as he held the spotlessly emptied dish.

"No need for a separate dishwashing for this."

Was it a compliment? It was a bit confusing, but Eun-oh couldn't find fault in it, smiling broadly. They say you can't spit on a smiling face, and even Mrs. Ok, who had regarded the somewhat aloof Eun-oh with indifference, couldn't help but chuckle at Eun-oh's sunny smile without reservation.

With a filled stomach, it was now time for work.

With a clear task ahead, Eun-oh's confident steps hurried towards the main house, avoiding any unnecessary hesitation.

Upon reaching the expansive courtyard, coincidentally, Chae Yoon-sa was emerging from the main house. Eun-oh hurriedly approached, hands clasped, and offered a respectful greeting.

"Hello, young master."

Whether lingering drowsiness remained or not, Chae Yoon-sa's response was sluggish. Slowly closing his eyes, he muttered

"You mouse."

A mouse? No matter the interpretation, it resonated as an insult. Eun-oh, feeling tense and wondering what he might have done wrong, blinked nervously with a worried expression. All he had done in the morning was roll around in front of the sleeping young master, trying not to wake him up, and then coming outside to prepare and eat breakfast.

What could be the problem?

Unable to fathom the situation, Eun-oh decided to delve into the events of the previous night.

Last night...

Last night seemed devoid of any issues. After assisting Kang-hee in closing the main court's assembly hall, he went to offer evening greetings to the young master before returning to his side small room. At the young master's request, he kneeled and diligently read aloud from a book. Then, in a moment, the young master fell asleep, and as Eun-oh admired his sleeping face, he too drifted off after the lantern went out. No matter how he examined it, he couldn't recall doing anything deserving of the insult "You mouse."

"I... What did I do wrong, young master?"

Chae Yoon-sa remained silent. In truth, his muttered words of "You mouse" held no negative intent. It was merely an observation of Eun-oh, who exited the room so quietly and effortlessly

With languid, unfocused eyes, Chae Yoon-sa briefly scanned Eun-oh's face before passing by. Eun-oh gazed perplexedly at the retreating figure of Chae Yoon-sa.

What's going on? Haven't I done anything wrong? Are you expecting me to figure it out on my own?

His contemplative expression was undeniably serious, but that seriousness didn't last long. The positive interpretation provided some relief. After all, if he wasn't scolded, that was good enough-why bother dwelling on it?

With a lighter heart, Eun-oh turned his steps back towards the main court.

"Alright, let's give it a try."

Rolling up his sleeves to his elbows, Eun-oh surveyed the inner room. Kang-hee had suggested finishing within two hours, considering the usual morning routine of the young master. Although the inner room was quite spacious, with diligent effort, there was ample time. He started by pulling out the disheveled bedding, shaking off the dust, and neatly arranging it. Placing yesterday's book on the writing desk, he meticulously cleaned each item, from the elongated door panels to the decorations above them.