Chapter 80: Gambit

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Captain Yi hesitated but ultimately nodded. "If the princess insists, I will have to oblige."

"Very well," Na-Rae said, a hint of satisfaction in her tone. "I'll speak with my father when he returns. But you can test him now."

"Of course, Princess," Captain Yi replied, motioning for Jungkook to follow him.

As they walked, Captain Yi warned Jungkook, "You're lucky today, boy. The princess gave you her recommendation, but don't think that will always save you. Palace accounts are serious matters. You need to be very careful with the information you handle."

Jungkook nodded, determination fueling his resolve.

When they reached the finance chamber[Hojo], Captain Yi bowed and introduced Jungkook to Lord Wang [Panseo], who was deeply engrossed in his work.

"Lord Wang this is Soojin's brother. The princess has requested he be given a position in your department," Captain Yi said.

Lord Wang looked up, scepticism in his gaze. "And what makes you think he's good with numbers?"

Without missing a beat, he handed Jungkook a thick ledger. "What's wrong with this balance sheet?"

Jungkook examined the book intently, flipping through the pages. Within a minute, he pointed out the mistake, showing Lord Wang the error with confidence. Lord Wang's eyes widened in surprise.

"Impressive. Here's another," Lord Wang said, handing over another sheet.

Jungkook took it and quickly identified another mistake, his confidence growing with each correction.

Lord Wang and Captain Yi exchanged glances, clearly impressed.

"Very well, young man," Lord Wang said, nodding. "You've earned yourself a position in the Finance department. You can come tomorrow. "

Jungkook bowed to Lord Wang and Captain Yi and left the chamber. He felt a rush of excitement. This was just the beginning of his journey, and he knew he had a critical role to play.

"Did you get it?" Na-Rae asked as Jungkook rejoined her and Soojin outside.

"I did! I'll be working in the accounts department," Jungkook replied, beaming with pride.

Na-Rae smiled, relief washing over her. "That's wonderful! I knew you could do it."

Jungkook felt a swell of gratitude for her support. "I couldn't have done it without you, Na-Rae. Thank you for believing in me."

Na-Rae shrugged, but her eyes sparkled. "It's what friends are for."

Tae, Jimin, and Minho, who approached with eager expressions.

"Hey, how did it go?" Tae asked, curiosity evident in his tone.

Jungkook grinned, the pride swelling within him. "I got the position in the accounts department! It's not always about swords and fights; sometimes, it's about numbers and talks too," he declared, making a bold statement.

"Good for you, businessman," Tae teased, a smile spreading across his face.

Jimin clapped Jungkook on the back. "We'll have to call you 'Sajok (Accountant) Jungkook' now. Just make sure to keep those finances in check!"

Amid their laughter and banter, Jungkook's gaze drifted down the hallway. His attention was caught by a middle-aged man dressed in a modern suit  his heart raced. "That's Mi-Rae's uncle..." he muttered under his breath.

Everyone followed Jungkook's line of sight, eyes narrowing as they recognized the man.

"What's Eunji's father doing here?" Minho and Tae asked in unison, surprise flickering in their expressions.

Jungkook turned to them, his brows furrowed. "Wait... how do you know Eunji?"

Minho exchanged a quick glance with Tae before answering. "She's our friend.

"Kookie," Tae interrupted, his voice firm, "we don't have time. He's leaving. Follow him and find out what you can about Mi-Rae. But don't let him catch on to you."

Minho stepped closer, his expression serious. "We need to know if he's portaled here like we were, or if he's using other means to get into this time. And more importantly, what his intentions are."

Jungkook nodded, determination settling in. "I'll find out. Just make sure you all cover for me while I'm gone."

Na-Rae's voice broke through the tension. "Be careful, Jungkook. He looks dangerous, and we have no idea what he's planning."

Jungkook shot her a reassuring glance before he began to trail after the man, his steps quiet and calculated. As he followed Mi-Rae's uncle through the dim palace halls, he kept his distance, making sure not to draw any attention. The man moved with a purpose, his pace quickening as he navigated through hidden corridors Jungkook hadn't seen before.

Jungkook's heart pounded as he stayed just far enough behind, peeking around corners and hiding behind pillars whenever the man turned his head. After what felt like an eternity, Mi-Rae's uncle stopped outside a secluded chamber. He glanced around cautiously before disappearing inside.

Jungkook crept closer, pressing his ear to the door, but this time, a better opportunity presented itself. He made a small hole in the changmun—the wooden frame of the chamber windows, covered with traditional hanji paper. He leaned forward carefully and peered inside.

 He leaned forward carefully and peered inside

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