The Last Imoogi

Head Mistress Had Served Her Purpose

Anyone who passed by the Cherry Blossoms House would instantly be enthralled by the view and scent of soft pink and fragrant petals showering the entire premises. Entering the main gates, a long uphill path lined with plum and cherry blossom trees would take you to the main receiving hall of the institution. The plains on each side were lush with green, soft grass, with tiny colorful buds and flowers accentuating it.

In short, it seems that it had always been spring at the Cherry Blossoms House.

As the group went past the picturesque view, Sandara couldn't help but boast it to her husband who had his one hand securely holding her by her waist, the other holding the reins of the horse. Kwon Jiyong would only nod as she told him stories about her stay at the place. Despite his cold and stern look, he at least returned her energetic story telling by paying attention and listening closely.

"Daegam, it's so beautiful here, isn't it?"

"Do you see that tree over there? I used to read books under that tree a lot!"

"Daegam, do you know that former royal concubine Sun Hee used to study here as well? Fortunately, she only stayed for a year. She'd always bully me back then just because she's from the capital and I'm only a country bumpkin."

Kwon Jiyong let out a half suppressed laugh. Of course he knew about it. The tension between the two women were quite obvious. As always, Kwon Jiyong had his means to find out.

"Daegam... Do you know, I tried several times to run away from here? I felt like a prisoner. Imagine staying here for six long years like a captive. While women my age were getting married, I spent all my youth in this place. I used to feel lonely being separated from my parents. But Head Mistress treated me really nicely. I learned to truly like this place in the end."

But Sandara only felt like the iceberg behind him wasn't interested in her stories after gaining no reaction from him at all. She wished he would at least voice out his thoughts.

But what's really new with that? Kwon Jiyong had always been a man of few words except when he's mad. She could only be thankful that somehow, Kwon Jiyong accepted Head Mistress' invitation.

When they reached the main hall, the servants and the two assistant mentors all lined up to welcome His Excellency and of course, their pride, Park Sandara. Kwon Jiyong swiftly went down the horse then lifted Sandara down. As the latter greeted everyone with her sweetest smile, the former stood loftily, cold and distant as he's always been.

Kwon Jiyong came here with a purpose and not just to mingle with these unfamiliar faces. Taking Sandara's hand into his, he strode towards the woman at the seat of honor.

The two parties were separated by a black screen curtain that concealed Head Mistress' features, but still allowed her movements and gestures to be seen.

Sandara broke free from Kwon Jiyong's grasp and was about to pay her respect when Head Mistress stood up and lowered herself on her knees, bowing deeply until her forehead reached the cold marble floor.

"This humble one greets His Excellency and Manim. It is this one's honor to welcome you in my humble abode,"

This!

How could her well respected mentor bow like this before her?

Sandara immediately fell down to her knees as graceful as she could, not wanting to disappoint her former mentor. But even before she could lower her head, Head Mistress spoke in a low voice.

"Didn't this mentor teach you about order and hierarchy?"

Sandara froze to her spot. What was her status again?