Join V(Kim Tae-hung), a skilled archer and avid reader, as he discovers an ancient book in his grandparents' village. The book, filled with mysterious symbols and forgotten stories, leads him on a journey of time travel and romance. As V unravels th...
As the group settled in, Na-Rae's words from earlier echoed in Tae's mind. The way she had worried over him-her closeness, the warmth of her hands-he couldn't shake it. He sat next to Jungkook and watched as Minho sulked in the corner.
Jungkook leaned closer to Tae, whispering, "You really think she'll come tomorrow to help?"
Tae smiled, glancing at the doorway where Na-Rae had just left. "Oh, she'll come. She always does."
Meanwhile, Jimin walked into the room, throwing himself down on the couch with a sigh. "So, what's the plan now?"
Tae glanced around at the group, trying to focus on the conversation. "We'll head to the palace first thing tomorrow morning. Na-Rae said she'd help you, Jungkook, so we'll stick with her plan."
Jungkook's face softened at the mention of Na-Rae. He had seen her kindness, and it reminded him of Mi-Rae. He let out a deep breath. "I just hope she's safe, wherever she is."
As the night grew late, they decided to rest. Jimin turned off the lights as they all settled into their makeshift beds around the bedroom.
The morning sun peeked over the horizon, casting a warm glow on the palace grounds as Tae, Jimin, and Minho prepared for the day ahead.
As they gathered their things, Jimin looked over at Tae, his brow furrowed in thought. "Do you think this will work?" he asked, pulling his sword belt tight.
Tae nodded, though a flicker of uncertainty crossed his face. "Na-Rae has never let us down before. She'll come through."
Minho adjusted his uniform, looking slightly nervous but determined. It was his first time being brought into something so serious. "I still don't understand how I'm going to pass this test. What if Captain Yi sees right through me?"
Tae smirked. "Don't worry. Yi's got a soft spot for young warriors. Once you show him what you're made of, he'll accept you as part of the palace guard."
As planned, Tae escorted Minho to Captain Yi's chambers. The palace was a maze of marble hallways and grand wooden doors, each one seeming more imposing than the last. When they finally arrived at Captain Yi's office, the tension doubled. Tae introduced Minho, as discussed, and gave a nod, signaling that it was Minho's turn to prove himself.
Captain Yi, a tall man with a stern face, eyed Minho from head to toe. "So, this is the recruit you spoke of, Tae?"
"Yes, Captain. Minho is eager to prove his worth."
Yi narrowed his eyes but called for the practice swords. "Let's see if the boy has the skills you claim."
Minho stepped forward, nervous but resolute. The two men exchanged a few blows, and soon enough, Minho's skill became evident. The Captain, though tough, acknowledged Minho's proficiency with a curt nod. "You've got potential. We'll see how you fare with real enemies."
Minho let out a breath of relief. His place in the palace guard was secured.
Meanwhile in evening, Jungkook approached the gates of the palace.Jimin, stationed there, discreetly signaled him. Their plan hinged on Jungkook's ability to slip inside undetected. Jungkook gave a subtle nod in return. Jimin gestured toward Tae, who was loudly calling for assistance, creating a diversion for Jungkook to enter.
As Jungkook passed through the gates, Jimin and Minho played their roles perfectly, acting as though they were helping Tae with some mundane task. In the commotion, no one noticed Jungkook slipping into the palace.
Once inside, Na-Rae and her friend Soojin were already waiting for him. Na-Rae, looking regal as always, gave him a reassuring smile, while Soojin hurried to Jungkook's side.
Na-Rae whispered urgently, "We don't have much time. Soojin will act as your sister. Remember what we rehearsed."
Soojin stepped forward, fidgeting slightly before speaking. "I'll tell Captain Yi that you're my cousin from a distant town. He's bound to ask questions, so stick to the story."
Jungkook nodded. He had to trust in their plan.
Na-Rae arrived with Soojin and Jungkook by her side, determination etched on her face. They approached Captain Yi with purpose.
"Captain Yi!" Na-Rae exclaimed, her voice strong and commanding.
"Princess Na-Rae!" Captain Yi bowed deeply. "What brings you here?"
"This is Jungkook," Na-Rae gestured. "Soojin's brother from another town. He's looking for a position here. He's good with numbers and well-educated. I think he'll be useful for you."
Captain Yi eyed Jungkook suspiciously. "Soojin's brother, you say? Her brother is only ten years old. Who is this man?"
Soojin interjected, "He's my cousin-my aunt sent him here for better opportunities. Please consider him!"
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