A Love Across Time

Chapter 13: Hidden Admiration

As Hera lay in her chamber, her mind buzzed with thoughts of the kingdom and its people. She longed to explore beyond the palace walls, to immerse herself in the lives of the citizens of Aerith.

But for now, she had to heed Chaeyoung's advice and focus on her recovery.

Chaeyoung's presence brought a sense of comfort to Hera. They chatted for hours, their conversations ranging from trivial matters to deeper reflections on life.

But amidst their banter, Hera couldn't shake off the smirk that tugged at her lips as she remembered the peculiar incident from the corridor.

Unable to contain her curiosity, Hera gently prodded Chaeyoung about her apparent distraction. With a mixture of surprise and reluctance, Chaeyoung confessed her feelings—or rather, her hidden admiration for Taehyung, the king's loyal guard.

She shared how she had known Taehyung since childhood, their occasional interactions dwindling as they grew older, leaving a void Chaeyoung couldn't quite fill.

Hera couldn't help but smile knowingly at Chaeyoung's admission. She reassured her friend, urging her to follow her heart and not let self-imposed barriers hinder her happiness. Chaeyoung's hesitance melted away in Hera's reassuring presence, and they shared a moment of genuine connection.

With a promise to keep Chaeyoung's secret safe, Hera reflected on the newfound friendship they shared. Despite their differences they found solace in each other's company, bound by the common thread of human emotion.

After Hera's reassurance to Chaeyoung about Taehyung, Chaeyoung couldn't help but inquire about Hera's opinion of Jungkook, addressing him as "Jeonha," meaning "your highness."

Hera's initial confusion quickly turned into a nervous smile as she stumbled over her words, attempting to explain her unfamiliarity with formal addressings.

She confessed to Chaeyoung about her chance encounter with Jungkook in the village, where she had lost her memories and found herself amidst the chaos of spies and secrecy.

As Hera recounted her story to Chaeyoung, detailing her journey from the village to the palace and her unexpected friendship with Jungkook and Taehyung, Chaeyoung listened intently, a knowing smile playing on her lips.

She explained how Jungkook had personally brought Hera to the infirmary, cradling her unconscious form in his arms, much to the shock of everyone present.

Chaeyoung described how Jungkook's usually composed demeanor had faltered in that moment of crisis, his worry and concern for Hera palpable to all.

Hera was taken aback by Chaeyoung's revelation. She couldn't believe that the king of Aerith, a figure of such authority and power, had shown such vulnerability and care towards her.

Gratitude swelled within her, mingled with a newfound sense of admiration for Jungkook. The realization that he had personally carried her to safety left Hera both humbled and intrigued, stirring a deeper curiosity about the enigmatic king.

As Hera processed this revelation, a subtle shift occurred within her. The spark of admiration towards Jungkook that had flickered hesitantly in her mind now glowed with a newfound intensity.

She couldn't deny the effect his actions had on her perception of him, igniting a desire to unravel the layers of mystery that surrounded the king of Aerith.

And as she pondered the significance of Jungkook's unexpected gesture, Hera couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead in her interactions with him, and how their burgeoning connection would shape the course of her journey in Aerith.

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As Hera stepped out of her chamber, she felt a rush of excitement at the prospect of exploring the kingdom. With Chaeyoung gone for lunch, she had some time to herself, and she intended to make the most of it.

Walking through the corridors of the palace, Hera couldn't help but marvel at the grandeur of her surroundings. The walls were adorned with intricate tapestries and paintings, each telling a story of Aerith's rich history. Sunlight streamed in through stained glass windows, casting colorful patterns on the marble floors. It was a sight to behold, and Hera found herself lost in its beauty.

Intrigued by the echoing sounds of clashing swords, Hera quickened her pace and followed the source of the noise. As she turned a corner, she found herself in a spacious training hall, its stone walls reverberating with the sounds of combat.

There, in the center of the hall, stood Jungkook, his figure illuminated by the flickering torches that lined the walls. He was engaged in a fierce sparring match with another warrior, their swords flashing in the dim light as they clashed and parried with skillful precision.

Hera watched in awe as Jungkook moved with fluid grace, his every movement calculated and deliberate. Despite the intensity of the fight, he seemed completely focused, his eyes sharp and alert as he anticipated his opponent's next move.

Mesmerized by the display of martial prowess before her, Hera couldn't tear her gaze away. There was something undeniably captivating about Jungkook in that moment, a raw power and determination that seemed to emanate from him.

As the duel reached its climax, Jungkook delivered a swift strike that sent his opponent's sword flying from his grasp. With a satisfied nod, he lowered his own weapon and turned to leave the training hall, pausing only when he caught sight of Hera standing in the doorway.