Soldier's Wife

002

The next day started as usual. You got up from bed and headed to Sunghoon's room to wake him up. Just as you were about to cross his room, you heard the town's announcement bell clanging repeatedly. Feeling uneasy, you rushed first to the window on the second floor, where you could see the bell and the town's square.

“Have consideration for us...” you whispered, your eyes roaming over the sights.

Sunghoon, suddenly awakened by the sound, got up and left his room. He saw you there and tapped your shoulder from behind.

“Don't panic. You'll be fine,” he reassured you.

You looked up at him and tapped his hand.

The announcer began to speak, “Attention, everyone. We have an urgent announcement. The Eastern opponents have suddenly attacked our location. Therefore, we must all be vigilant and alert at all times. It has also been reported that they have planted scattered bombs in various areas.

Please avoid any suspicious objects or packages, report any unusual activities to the authorities, and stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. Follow all safety instructions from officials. Your cooperation is crucial for everyone's safety. Stay calm and stay safe.”

For the past weeks, your kingdom’s military has been fighting against the Eastern forces, who want to forcibly conquer your land. Hearing the announcement makes you panic, but you hold yourself together. Surely, this time, they have pinpointed several locations within the kingdom, and it’s high likely percentage that your location will be the next target.

“Can I come with you to the campsite?”

Sunghoon thought for a minute, weighing the importance of your safety and well-being. However, he decided it would be best to keep you close and stick with him all times.

“You sure about that?” You nodded at him.

“Very well. We can go after we have breakfast. Gather your things, and I'll do the same,” he ordered with a smile.

“Okay,” you replied, holding his hand.

You and Sunghoon arrived at the campsite, which was bustling with activity as soldiers prepared for the upcoming battle.

As soon as you settle in, Sunghoon spots the leader of the military team he is a part of and excuses himself for a brief moment.

“Love, I'll be right back. Stay here, don't wander around too much,” he tells you, leaving you with a kiss on your forehead before walking over to where his military leader waiting.

You take note the Sunghoon's advice from earlier, but you couldn't help feeling restless where you stood. So, you secretly followed Sunghoon. You saw him go inside the tent, but on you, you had decided to stay outside. There, you stood by, listening carefully to their conversation.

The military leader speaks first, “We need to be especially vigilant today. The Eastern troops have been relentlessly attacking our defense lines and have already breached our territory in several areas.”

“I've noticed that too. We've suffered significant casualties and supply losses. Our troops are dwindling, and fatigue is starting to set in.”

“There's something else, Sunghoon.”

“What is it?”

“Earlier, I received news from our messenger that the Eastern troops may have a secret weapon that could turn the tide of the war in their favor.”

“Have our men located any information about it?”

“Unfortunately, no... not yet. And to be honest, we're uncertain about this one.”

“Seems like they’re taking advantage of our weaknesses, Captain.”

“They really have. Now, we need to switch our attack strategy.”

Sunghoon nods, “Are our lands still safe for anyone?”

“I can’t answer that. I think Prince Evan should be the one to address it. He’s arriving soon.”

“Alright. Let’s see what comes next,” Sunghoon said, turning away. He sighed, “This all feels so wrong, full of cruelty and no mercy.”

Hearing those all tell-truths made your heart sink. Not wanting to hear any more harsh says, you ran away, clutching your chest and trying to hold back your tears.