I Am Dead, Am I? (HWARANG X Male Reader)

X : Royal Guard

Y/N POV

It took a moment for our hug before he let go. He's going through the toughest time of his life, but I believe he'll bounce back stronger, fueled by a sense of vengeance. As we locked eyes, inching closer, I suddenly snapped out of it and gently pushed him away. It should be me leaving to let him find peace with his troubles.

"I should get going. Hopefully, we'll meet again under better circumstances," I said, about to depart, but he held my hand once more.

"Wait, may I ask your name? In case we cross paths again," I weakly smiled.

"I'm M/N. Let's hope for that," I replied, releasing his hand and bowing. I left, still carrying guilt, but certain sacrifices had to be made for the story to progress, even if reluctantly.

The next day, Ga Young and I had a day off from work, and we headed to the royal post where the royal guards were assembling. I recognized some faces and covered mine to avoid suspicion.

"What are they posting now? Another tax hike for merchants? I hope not. Uncle-boss is still furious after the Queen rejected his proposal for tax relief on the gambling house," Ga Young remarked. The royal post... Could this be what I think it is? Yes, this is where the Queen is recruiting royal guards called 'Hwarang.' As we approached, I noticed individuals who would play pivotal roles in the drama. Ga Young excused herself when she spotted her friends, and I let her go. I tried to steer clear but was spotted by Su-ho, who smiled and waved.

"Hey M/N, how are you? I hope our last meeting didn't leave a bad taste?" Su-ho greeted me.

"It's fine, actually. What's happening at the post?" I replied, avoiding complications.

"The Queen is seeking royal guards from noble families, likely to serve the unknown prince," one of Su-ho's friends informed me as Su-ho nudged him.

"It's called Hwarang. I'm quite a fascinating name," Su-ho added. Just then, we noticed Han-sung (played by Kim Taehyung of BTS), looking incredibly handsome.

"If you want to be the Queen's lapdog, you'll be more interested," Ban-ryu chimed in snarkily, earning a glare from Su-ho.

"Why don't you join, Ban-ryu? Seems like you're itching to be a well-trained dog," Su-ho teased back.

"Forget it, Su-ho. I don't need this nonsense to prove myself," Ban-ryu retorted, clearly irritated, and left with his entourage.

Su-ho and his friends chuckled at their victory. I stepped back and continued reading the post, glancing over at Han-sung, who smiled back.

"Are you new here? I know most folks around," Han-sung asked me.

"I'm M/N. I work at a gambling house in the city," I replied.

"No wonder I haven't seen you. Only these guys behind you visit to splurge," he chuckled.

"Have you explored the shops here? They're quite exquisite."

"I wish I could, but work keeps me tied up, and my cousin is as lazy as a sloth," Han-sung chuckled.

"I'd be happy to show you around and hope you'll consider joining Hwarang," he suggested.

"I'm afraid I'm not a noble's son. I don't even remember my parents," I admitted, a hint of sadness crossing his face.

"If you can't join, how about I give you a tour now? I'm free until evening, and I'd love to get to know you better," Han-sung proposed, taking me by surprise. I nodded, and without hesitation, he led me into the bustling city.

This day was full of unexpected turns.