Daldal: Main story

Chapter 55

The courtyard buzzed with activity as the servants eagerly awaited the New Year's reward. They lined up, received their allowances one by one, and discussed how they would use the money.

The expressions of those who received the reward were noticeably bright, as they eagerly planned how to spend it.

With hopeful anticipation, Eun-oh also joined the line. Soon, it was Seo Hwa's turn, and the clerk, after confirming her name, handed her the allowance. Witnessing Seo Hwa's delighted expression, Eun-oh couldn't help but feel excited.

Finally, it was Eun-oh's turn.

"My name is Eun-oh."

"Hmm? I haven't heard that name before."

The clerk, puzzled by the name, looked at Eun-oh's face and checked the ledger.

"Your name isn't here."

"It's not?"

"No. You must have arrived recently. I feel like I'm seeing you for the first time today."

The clerk was responsible for managing the estate's finances and handling the distribution of allowances. Given the number of servants listed in Young Master's register, it was challenging for him to know everyone by name. However, since they distributed allowances twice a year, Eun-oh being completely unfamiliar was noticeable.

"Yes, I arrived not long ago."

"No wonder. Anyway, since your name isn't in the list, I can't provide you with the allowance. You should ask the Young Master. Next."

Unfortunately, it turned out as expected.

The unfulfilled anticipation turned into disappointment. After all, what did he expect? He dared to ask for money, thinking it was a mistake, yet Eun-oh couldn't help feeling disheartened.

Seo Hwa offered to lend him money for the gift willingly, though it came with the condition of repaying later, perhaps with interest.

Sad, Eun-oh returned alone to his room. Meanwhile, enticed by the promise of meat, the momentarily distracted Yeoul followed Seo Hwa. On the mountain, Yeoul, who used to be busy looking for food, now roamed freely and independently.

"It's me Eun-oh, Young Master. I'll come in."

Eun-oh no longer waited for permission to enter the inner room. He could even enter when Chae Yoon-sa wasn't around. Why bother with rumors about him taking over the inner room? However, the reality differed from people's expectations. Eun-oh wasn't treated as a favorite but rather as a decorative piece was more appropriate. It's also a decoration that can be used only occasionally.

"Hello."

In the room, Chae Yoon-sa wasn't alone; Yohwan was also present. While Yohwan acknowledged the greeting with a gentle smile, Chae Yoon-sa remained engrossed in his writing until Eun-oh took his seat.

"What does the message states."

Chae Yoon-sa spoke unexpectedly.

Yohwan immediately replied.

"In the Pavilion, we await Sir
Chae's response."

Chae Yoon-sa finished looking over the Sabon surveillance, rolled it into a scroll, and tossed it before Yohwan.

"Bring it and send it back."

"You're not responding?"

"Ignoring is the answer."

"Are you sure it's okay?"

The letter received by Chae Yoon-sa was an official document sent from the central military headquarters responsible for military affairs.