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<h3 style="text-align:center;font-size:63px;">[[Prologue->Prologue.1]]</h3>
<br>
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<h1 class="story-title" data-passage="gameTitle"></h1>
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<h2 class="story-author" data-passage="storyAuthor"></h2>
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<span class="tooltiptext">Saves</span>
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<div id="story" role="main">
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<div id="passage-start" data-passage="start" class="passage">
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</div><<nobr>>
<!-- PLACE LINKS TO YOUR MENU BELOW, BUT REMEMBER TO WRAP IN <LI> TAGS -->
<li>[[Profile]]</li>
<li>[[Relationships]]</li>
<</nobr>><<set $hello = "hello">>
[[Next|More Styles]]<<set $hello = "hello">>
<<print $hello.toUpperFirst()>>
<<= $hello.toUpperFirst()>>
!!! Checkbox:
<<checkbox "$checkboxVar1" false true autocheck>> Checkbox option 1
<<checkbox "$checkboxVar2" false true autocheck>> Checkbox option 2
<<checkbox "$checkboxVar3" false true autocheck>> Checkbox option 3
!!! Cycle:
<<cycle "$cycleVar" autoselect>>
<<option "Option 1">>
<<option "Option 2">>
<<option "Option 3">>
<<option "Option 4">>
<<option "Option 5">>
<</cycle>>
!!! Listbox:
<<listbox "$listboxVar" autoselect>>
<<option "Option 1">>
<<option "Option 2">>
<<option "Option 3">>
<<option "Option 4">>
<<option "Option 5">>
<</listbox>>
!!! Radiobutton:
<<radiobutton "$radiobuttonVar" "option 1" autocheck>> Option 1
<<radiobutton "$radiobuttonVar" "option 2" autocheck>> Option 2
<<radiobutton "$radiobuttonVar" "option 3" autocheck>> Option 3
!!! Textarea:
<<textarea "$textareaVar" "Type text here..">>
!!! Textbox:
<<textbox "$textboxVar" "Type answer here">>When the Moon Bleeds
by <a href="https://www.tumblr.com/blog/whenthemoonbleeds-if" target="_blank">hanyeul</a><h1>Hong $playername</h1>\
<hr>
<h2>Appearance</h2>\
You are a <b>$playergender</b> of <b>$playerphysique</b> physique and <b>$playerheight</b> height. Your <b>$playerhairstyle $playerhaircolor</b> hair is <b>$playerhairlength</b>, and it nicely frames your <b>$playerskin</b> skin. And the most eye-catching among all of your traits being your <b>$playereye</b> eyes.
//<<if $playereye is "peach">>People avoid looking into your eyes in fear of being bewitched by your charms.<<elseif $playereye is "red">>People fear that you may truly be of demonic origins.<<elseif $playereye is "golden">>People like to wonder if you are the chosen descendant from the gods above.<<elseif $playereye is "violet">>People speculate whether you are able to use special powers like witches do.<<elseif $playereye is "pearlescent">>People search your eyes wondering whether you're a messenger from the heavens.<</if>>//
<h2>Personality</h2>\
<h3>Shy/Bold</h3><<showmeter 'Shy/Bold' $bold/$maxbold>>You currently lean neither towards being shy nor bold.
<h3>Stoic/Expressive</h3><<showmeter 'Stoic/Expressive' $expressive/$maxexpressive>>You currently lean neither towards being stoic nor expressive.
<h3>Sarcastic/Genuine</h3><<showmeter 'Sarcastic/Genuine' $genuine/$maxgenuine>>You currently lean neither towards being sarcastic nor genuine.
<h3>Pessimistic/Optimistic</h3><<showmeter 'Pessimistic/Optimistic' $optimistic/$maxoptimistic>>You currently lean neither towards being pessimistic nor optimistic.
<h3>Pragmatic/Emotional</h3><<showmeter 'Mind/Heart' $heart/$maxheart>>You currently lean neither towards being pragmatic nor emotional.
<br>
<h2>Reputation</h2>\
<<showmeter 'Reputation' $reputation/$maxreputation>><<if $reputation <= 20>>You aren't quite known. Perhaps that's for the better.<<elseif $reputation <= 40>><</if>>
<br>
<h2>Stats</h2>\
<h3>Physical</h3><<showmeter 'Physical' $physical/$maxphysical>>
<h3>Spiritual</h3><<showmeter 'Spiritual' $spiritual/$maxspiritual>>
<h3>Mental</h3><<showmeter 'Mental' $mental/$maxmental>>
<br>
<center><<button "Return to game" $return>><</button>></center><h1>Major Characters</h1>\
<hr>
<h2>Lee Do Hyun</h2>\
<<showmeter 'DoHyun' $DoHyunPlatonic/$maxDoHyunPlatonic>>Relationship: <<if $DoHyunPlatonic <= 20>><</if>>
Romance: <<print $DoHyunRomantic>>
<br>
<h2>Baek Yeon</h2>\
<<showmeter 'Yeon' $YeonPlatonic/$maxYeonPlatonic>>Relationship:<<if $YeonPlatonic <= 20>><</if>>
Romance: <<print $YeonRomantic>>
<br>
<h2>Hwang Yi Rang</h2>\
<<showmeter 'YiRang' $YiRangPlatonic/$maxYiRangPlatonic>>Relationship:<<if $YiRangPlatonic <= 20>><</if>>
Romance: <<print $YiRangRomantic>>
<br>
<h2>Haram</h2>\
<<showmeter 'Haram' $HaramPlatonic/$maxHaramPlatonic>>Relationship:<<if $HaramPlatonic <= 20>><</if>>
Romance: <<print $HaramRomantic>>
<br>
<center><<button "Return to game" $return>><</button>></center><<set $playername to "unknown">>
<<set $playergender to "unknown">>
<<set $playerphysique to "unknown">>
<<set $playerheight to "unknown">>
<<set $playerhairstyle to "unknown">>
<<set $playerhairlength to "unknown">>
<<set $playerhaircolor to "unknown">>
<<set $playerskin to "unknown">>
<<set $playereye to "unknown">>
<<set $yourhighness to "Your Highness">>
<<set $returnreaction to "neutral">>
<<set $playerweapon to "unknown">>
<<set $bold = 50; $maxbold = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Shy/Bold' $bold>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$bold%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $expressive = 50; $maxexpressive = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Stoic/Expressive' $expressive>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$expressive%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $genuine = 50; $maxgenuine = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Sarcastic/Genuine' $genuine>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$genuine%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $optimistic = 50; $maxoptimistic = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Pessimistic/Optimistic' $optimistic>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$optimistic%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $heart = 50; $maxheart = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Mind/Heart' $heart>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$heart%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $reputation = 0; $maxreputation = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Reputation' $reputation>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$reputation%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $goodrep = 0; $badrep = 0>>
<<set $physical = 20; $maxphysical = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Physical' $physical>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$physical%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $spiritual = 50; $maxspiritual = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Spiritual' $spiritual>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$spiritual%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $mental = 40; $maxmental = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Mental' $mental>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$mental%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $YeonPlatonic = 70; $maxYeonPlatonic = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Yeon' $YeonPlatonic>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$YeonPlatonic%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $YeonRomantic = 0>>
<<set $YeonGender to "none">>
<<set $YiRangPlatonic = 60; $maxYiRangPlatonic = 100>>
<<newmeter 'YiRang' $YiRangPlatonic>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$YiRangPlatonic%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $YiRangRomantic = 0>>
<<set $YiRangGender to "none">>
<<set $HaramPlatonic = 40; $maxHaramPlatonic = 100>>
<<newmeter 'Haram' $HaramPlatonic>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$HaramPlatonic%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $HaramRomantic = 0>>
<<set $HaramGender to "none">>
<<set $DoHyunPlatonic = 20; $maxDoHyunPlatonic = 100>>
<<newmeter 'DoHyun' $DoHyunPlatonic>>
<<colors '#9A2D2F' 'white'>>
<<sizing '100%''2em'>>
<<label '$DoHyunPlatonic%' black center>>
<</newmeter>>
<<set $DoHyunRomantic = 0>>
<<set $DoHyunGender to "none">>//Mocking laughter echoed throughout the barren imperial garden. What was once a beautiful safe haven, while under your mother's management, was now nothing but a graveyard.
Mangled bodies were sprawled out everywhere, and their blood coated the ground. Not a single patch of green could be seen.
The stench of death was thick, and countless of demons circled around you. They only approached so close as you allowed them, but even with the distance, you felt your stomach churn.//
[[Next|Prologue.2]]You've reached the current end of the demo.
Thank you for playing, hope you enjoyed! You can send feedback or keep up with progress on my tumblr.
!Heading 1
!!Heading 1
!!!Heading 1
Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. //emphasised text//. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. ''strong text''. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. __underlined text__ Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text.
* List item 1
* List item 2
<<button "Button" "More Styles">><</button>>//Amongst the sea of demons, you were able to make out the figure of a certain demon you've grown so familiar with.
The more you looked into their crimson red eyes, the more your resistance wore down. In the depths of their eyes, you could make out a swarm of emotions: Sadness, regret, confusion, rage, and...desperation.
You couldn't tell if your eyes were playing tricks on you or if it was your wishful thinking.
Demons couldn't possibly have feelings. Not when they did such terrible stuff to you for their selfish gains.
Not when they were the cause of your misery.//
[[Next|Prologue.3]]//But the more you looked into their eyes, you couldn't help but believe that it was true.
With the last of your resistance worn down, the demons began to swarm you. No strength to protect yourself, you simply waited.
The pain never came, and when you look up, you find that one demon standing in front of you.
The other demons were nowhere to be found, and the sudden silence rang loudly in your ears.
Your heart ached for the unnamed demon, and unbeknownst to you, your hand was already stretching out towards them.
Perhaps your heart was moved by their desperate cry? For some reason, you felt no fear.
Blood coated their scales, and the scarlet hue perfectly matched their crimson eyes. Was the color of blood always this beautiful?
As your fingers came into contact with the demon's muzzle, you felt a twisted kind of connection between the two of you.
The demon only pressed further into your palm, and you couldn't help but wonder if this was truly okay.
Disregarding your own concerns, you pressed your face closer to the demon's muzzle and closed your eyes.
You could only pray that this demon, who had helped you despite your circumstances, would be there when you reopened your eyes.
"Thank you..."
Your eyes made contact with the demon's once more.//
@@filter:blur(2.75px);[['"Haram"|Chapter 1.0]]@@<br>
<br>
<h3 style="text-align:center;font-size:63px;">[[Chapter 1->Chapter1.1]]</h3>
<br>
<br>You wake with a gasp.
You sit up, heart thundering within your chest. Your mind is still clouded by the hazy memories of the nightmare, but by the time you gained awareness of your surroundings, the details of the nightmare has already fled your mind.
Even with no recollection of the dream, some feeling of unease begins to gnaw at the back of your mind.
However, before you can contemplate on the matter, gentle knocks sound on the door of your chambers, pulling you out of your stupor.
A faint silhouette of a <<cycle "$YeonGender" autoselect>>
<<option "man">>
<<option "woman">><</cycle>> can be seen through the oriental doors.
"May I enter, $yourhighness?" Yeon's voice is soft, almost as if expecting you to still be asleep.
<<link [['"Yes, you may."'|Letting Yeon In]]>><<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 5>><</link>>
<<link [['"Wait just a moment!"'|Not Letting Yeon In]]>><</link>>
<<link [['"No, that's not necessary. I'll be ready soon."'|Not Letting Yeon In]]>><</link>><<if $YeonGender is "man">><<set $YeonThey to "he", $YeonThem to "him", $YeonTheir to "his", $YeonThemself to "himself">><<elseif $YeonGender is "woman">><<set $YeonThey to "she", $YeonThem to "her", $YeonTheir to "her", $YeonThemself to "herself">>
<</if>>"Yes, you may." Your voice is hushed as you try to calm your thundering heart. Yeon enters quietly, bowing slightly as $YeonThey closes the door behind $YeonThem.
"...Have you had another nightmare, $yourhighness?" Yeon asks, carefully closing the door behind $YeonThem.
Yeon is wearing $YeonTheir usual navy robes, tied at the waist with a black leather belt. Your eyes skim over the janggeom secured around Yeon's waist, the one that you had presented him the day you took over the throne.
It was yet another reminder of your past, and though you sometimes find yourself wishing that Yeon would use a different one, you have long since realized that Yeon had taken quite a liking to it.
"Just the usual," you say, shaking away the memories.
You watch $YeonTheir movement as $YeonThey navigates through the room to retrieve your garments.
Yeon says nothing more as $YeonThey carefully hands you your clothes, and you're painfully aware of the sympathetic look in $YeonTheir gray eyes.
<<print ucfirst($YeonTheir)>> eyes hold nothing but genuine concern and...
<<link [[You can't help but feel slightly flustered at their heartfelt solicitude. ♡|Yeon After Nightmare]]>><<set $YeonFlirt to "shy">><<set $YeonRomantic = $YeonRomantic + 1; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3; $bold = $bold - 3>><</link>>
<<link [[You grin at Yeon, your heart skipping a beat as you lean closer to your personal guard. ♡|Yeon After Nightmare]]>><<set $YeonFlirt to "bold">><<set $YeonRomantic = $YeonRomantic + 1; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3; $bold = $bold + 5>><</link>>
<<link [[You chuckle, waving off Yeon's concern lightly.|Yeon After Nightmare]]>><<set $YeonFlirt to "neutral">><<set $expressive = $expressive + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[You simply shrug.|Yeon After Nightmare]]>><<set $YeonFlirt to "neutral">><<set $expressive = $expressive - 3>><</link>><<if $YeonGender is "man">><<set $YeonThey to "he", $YeonThem to "him", $YeonTheir to "his", $YeonThemself to "himself">><<elseif $YeonGender is "woman">><<set $YeonThey to "she", $YeonThem to "her", $YeonTheir to "her", $YeonThemself to "herself">>
<</if>>You slowly slide yourself out of your bed.
Sluggishly pulling on your silk robes, you check yourself in the mirror.
Within the reflection of the full length mirror, you see a <<cycle "$playergender" autoselect>>
<<option "man">><<option "woman">><<option "person">><</cycle>> of <<cycle "$playerphysique" autoselect>>
<<option "ordinary">><<option "lanky">><<option "stocky">><<option "voluptuous">><<option "athletic">><<option "lithe">><<option "hulking">><<option "petite">><<option "frail">><</cycle>> physique, your robe nicely accentuating your <<cycle "$playerheight" autoselect>>
<<option "short">><<option "average">><<option "tall">><</cycle>> frame. You run a hand down your head, feeling your <<cycle "$playerhairstyle" autoselect>>
<<option "straight">><<option "wavy">><<option "messy">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$playerhairlength" autoselect>>
<<option "short">><<option "chin length">><<option "shoulder length">><<option "back length">><<option "waist length">><</cycle>> hair, the <<cycle "$playerhaircolor" autoselect>>
<<option "black">><<option "dark gray">><<option "midnight blue">><<option "chestnut brown">><<option "red brown">><</cycle>> strands pleasantly framing your <<cycle "$playerskin" autoselect>>
<<option "pale">><<option "almond beige">><<option "warm beige">><<option "olive">><</cycle>> skin.
And for a moment, you stare at your <<cycle "$playereye" autoselect>>
<<option "peach">><<option "red">><<option "golden">><<option "violet">><<option "pearlescent">><</cycle>> eyes. Yet another one of your many qualities that set you apart from everyone else.
Content with your appearance, you open the door to find Yeon smiling slightly, waiting patiently for you.
Yeon is wearing $YeonTheir usual navy robes, tied at the waist with a black leather belt. Your eyes skim over the janggeom secured around Yeon's waist, the one that you had presented him the day you took over the throne.
It was yet another reminder of your past, and though you sometimes find yourself wishing that Yeon would use a different one, you have long since realized that Yeon had taken quite a liking to it.
"Master Li Bai has returned and is waiting to speak with you," Yeon informs, brining you out of your memories.
When you pass, $YeonThey bows $YeonTheir head slightly, keeping $YeonTheir head low until you're walking in front of $YeonThem.
[[Next|Hallway Scene]]<<if $YeonFlirt is "shy">>You look away, face heating up. Yeon's gaze softens, $YeonTheir ears flushing red as $YeonThey awkwardly clears $YeonTheir throat. Yeon offers you a gentle smile, and $YeonThey turns around to let you get dressed.
Sluggishly pulling on your silk robes, you check yourself in the mirror.<<elseif $YeonFlirt is "bold">>Yeon's ears burn red, and $YeonThey jerks back, flustered by your sudden action. Yeon quickly regains $YeonTheir composure, however, and turns around to let you get dressed.
Sluggishly pulling on your silk robes, you check yourself in the mirror.<<elseif $YeonFlirt is "neutral">>Yeon sighs at your dismissive atttitude but doesn't comment any further. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> only turn around to let you get dressed.
Sluggishly pulling on your silk robes, you check yourself in the mirror.<</if>>
Within the reflection of the full length mirror, you see a <<cycle "$playergender" autoselect>>
<<option "man">><<option "woman">><<option "person">><</cycle>> of <<cycle "$playerphysique" autoselect>>
<<option "ordinary">><<option "lanky">><<option "stocky">><<option "voluptuous">><<option "athletic">><<option "lithe">><<option "hulking">><<option "petite">><<option "frail">><</cycle>> physique, your robe nicely accentuating your <<cycle "$playerheight" autoselect>>
<<option "short">><<option "average">><<option "tall">><</cycle>> frame. You run a hand down your head, feeling your <<cycle "$playerhairstyle" autoselect>>
<<option "straight">><<option "wavy">><<option "messy">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$playerhairlength" autoselect>>
<<option "short">><<option "chin length">><<option "shoulder length">><<option "back length">><<option "waist length">><</cycle>> hair, the <<cycle "$playerhaircolor" autoselect>>
<<option "black">><<option "dark gray">><<option "midnight blue">><<option "chestnut brown">><<option "red brown">><</cycle>> strands pleasantly framing your <<cycle "$playerskin" autoselect>>
<<option "pale">><<option "almond beige">><<option "warm beige">><<option "olive">><</cycle>> skin.
And for a moment, you stare at your <<cycle "$playereye" autoselect>>
<<option "peach">><<option "red">><<option "golden">><<option "violet">><<option "pearlescent">><</cycle>> eyes. Yet another one of your many qualities that set you apart from everyone else.
"Okay, I'm ready now." You allow Yeon to turn back around.
"Master Li Bai has returned and is waiting to speak with you," Yeon informs, escorting you out of your room.
[[Next|Hallway Scene]]<<if $playergender is "man">><<set $playerThey to "he", $playerThem to "him", $playerTheir to "his", $playerThemself to "himself">><<elseif $playergender is "woman">><<set $playerThey to "she", $playerThem to "her", $playerTheir to "her", $playerThemself to "herself">><<elseif $playergender is "person">><<set $playerThey to "they", $playerThem to "them", $playerTheir to "their", $playerThemself to "themself">>
<</if>>You walk down the long hallways with Yeon trailing close behind you.
The halls are quiet. The only thing you could hear being the soft chirping of birds. The abode is pretty big, and considering that it is being shared between only ten occupants, it is normal for the building to be quiet.
However, for some reason, the quietness of the building unsettles you.
Your thoughts echo in your mind, so loud you almost feel it ringing in your ears. It's even worse when there's no familiar, lighthearted banter of your fellow exorcists to sooth your unease.
Lost in thought, the trip feels all to short as your feet carry you to your destination.
Eventually, you find yourself standing in front of the large oriental sliding doors leading to the private study of your mentor.
After taking a moment to tame your storming mix of emotions, you take a deep breath and open the door.
[[Next|Mentor 1st Meeting]]“I’ve been waiting for you <<textbox "$playername" "">>"
<<button "confirm">>
<<set $playername to $playername.trim()>>
<<if $playername is "">>
<<replace "#playername-error">> Please enter a name.<</replace>>
<<else>>
<<goto "Chapter1.2">>
<</if>>
<</button>>
<span id="playername-error"></span>The owner of the voice none other but your mentor.
In the middle of the study stands Li Bai, your mentor, who's rather thin in physique. Li Bai's salt and pepper hair hangs loosely around his shoulders in a loose braid, and his purple eyes seem to carry a sort of eternal understanding that one could only achieve in the peak of their lifetime.
Your mentor's face breaks out in a smile, his eyes crinkling in the slightest.
It is only then that you allow yourself to let go of your accumulating anxiety.
"It's been a while." Li Bai laughs, gesturing for you to sit. "Please sit. I have some matters to discuss with you."
As you get seated on the other side of the tea table, your mentor proceeds to serve the both of you some tea and biscuits.
"When did you come back?" The question tumbles out before you can stop yourself, and before even more questions can fall out your mouth, Li Bai quickly raises a hand to stop you.
"I came back just a few hours ago." The man smiles. "I'm sorry that I couldn't be around recently. An emergency occured during my visit to the city."
Your mentor takes a long sip from his cup of tea, and you remain silent, waiting for him to say something more.
"Have you been well, <<print ucfirst($playername)>>?"
<<link [[“We've missed you.”|Chapter 1.3]]>><<set $reaction to "genuine">><<set $genuine = $genuine + 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“I've been feeling so great these days that I could barely sleep in concern of you.”|Chapter 1.3]]>><<set $reaction to "sarcastic">><<set $genuine = $genuine - 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“Nothing out of the blue...”|Chapter 1.3]]>><<set $reaction to "stoic">><<set $expressive = $expressive - 1>><</link>><<if $reaction is "genuine">>"We've missed you." You admit honestly. Li Bai's mouth quirks up in a small smile. "Everyone was getting worried when you didn't come back the day you were supposed to. The place feels too quiet without you around."
"Is that so?" Li Bai laughs. "I've missed you guys too."<<elseif $reaction is "sarcastic">>"I've been feeling so great these days that I can barely sleep in concern of you." You snort. Li Bai sighs and shakes his head, but you can catch a glimpse of the fond smile spreading across his face. "I certainly am doing well when my mentor disappeared for three weeks."
"I'm glad to see that you're attitude hasn't changed during those three weeks." Li Bai rolls his eyes. "It's truly comforting to see that your sarcasm isn't going anywhere."<<elseif $reaction is "stoic">>"Nothing out of the blue..." You mumble. Not wanting your mentor thinking that you didn't care for him, you quickly add, "What happened? Everyone was worried."
"It wasn't anything serious. A patient happened to appear, and I had to assist in nursing them back to health." Li Bai hums.<</if>>
Before you can ask any questions, or even open your mouth for that matter, your mentor is already shuffling through his pocket in a search for something.
"Well, I brought back a gift." As he says so, your mentor pulls out something wrapped with a piece of cloth from within his outer robes. "Hope that makes up for my absence."
<<if $reaction is "genuine">>"Really? You didn't have to." You gratefully accept the gift.
Without opening the wrapped cloth, you weigh it in your hands, hoping that it isn't one of the weirder presents that he's given you before.
"What is it?"<<elseif $reaction is "sarcastic">>"If that's the case, I just might forgive you." You grin, gratefully accepting the gift.
Before you open it however, you're reminded of some of the previous odd gifts he's given you. You eye the wrapped cloth suspiciously before weighing it in your hands.
"What is it?"<<elseif $reaction is "stoic">>"That wasn't necessary." You, nevertheless, gratefully accept the gift from your mentor.
Experience, with some of Li Bai's previous gifts, have taught you to be cautious in dealing with his gifts, considering how weird some of them may be, and you weigh the gift in your hands.
"What is it?"<</if>>
[[Next|Chapter1.4]]"It's to help with your next mission."
Those words effectively make you stop whatever it is that you are doing.
You stare at your mentor in disbelief, and it seems as though your expression conveys your emotions well enough that Li Bai lets out an apologetic sigh.
It's only been two days since you got back from your last mission. You don't know how to feel about news of having to go on another one.
"I'm really sorry to make you go on another mission after just coming back, but this matter is extremely time sensitive." Li Bai adds.
"Shouldn't you send more experienced people?" You ask.
After all, you are still only an outer disciple. If the mission is as dangerous and important as Li Bai is making it to be, then it would be far better for him to dispatch a group of inner or core disciples.
"I heard Senior Shin came back from her mission last week." You offer.
"She's gone into solitary training. I can't bother her until she returns on her own accord. It'd terribly mess with her physical and mental well-being if I were to disturb her during her spiritual awakening."
"Do you have an idea of when she'll be back?"
"No, spiritual awakenings differ for each individual." Li Bai explains. He avoids meeting your eyes as you stare at him. "I have no way of knowing when she'll be back."
Your mentor's expression seems sullen, and there is a hesitant look in his downcast eyes.
Your gaze falls to his hands.
His fingers have been fumbling with his tea cup, and with the way his hands are shaking, you could tell that Li Bai is nervous.
"And, your unique...heritage would help a lot with this mission." The man grimaces as the words leave his lips. Li Bai seems to be regretting even mentioning this mission to you. "Normal exorcists, no matter how experienced, can never compare to you in terms of raw power."
"What does that have to do with anything, though?" You find your voice rising with each word you say.
None of your previous questions have been provided a sufficient answer, and you are only getting more confused.
"My heritage was the exact thing that kept you from letting me go on more complex missions."
Li Bai pauses, an attempt to collect himself, and he appears to be searching for the right words to say.
"I've been doing some research as of late."
[[Next|Chapter1.5]]"I'm not sure if you've noticed...with your heightened sensitivity and all, but during the past three months, the demons have been running amok. Incidents involving demons have been increasing rapidly."
Li Bai makes brief eye contact with you to confirm you're listening. You can see a flicker of uncertainty within your mentor's purple eyes. You haven't seen him act like that in a while, not since he's taken you in five years ago.
"I know that much." You raise your brows. Your mentor's words do nothing to quell your anxiety.
Those incidents that Li Bai has mention is the reason you've been going on missions back to back without rest in the first place.
"Well, I looked into it, and I've learned that they've been acting in groups. Their assaults are becoming more and more coordinated."
Li Bai pauses, observing your reaction as he allows the new information to settle in. It takes you a while to fully digest it.
"That's impossible." Your reply comes as soon as you register your mentor's words.
You know that demons would rather die than work together. It's almost like a primal instinct within them to avoid each other. Additionally, most low and mid rank demons don't possess the intellect to coordinate anything.
"I know it's hard to believe, but I've considered this information over and over again thousands of times before concluding that it's true." Li Bai sighs.
You remain silent, waiting for your mentor to continue his explanation. Seeing the way the man constantly rubs his temples, you can tell there is more that he needs to tell you.
"Other than that...Demons have been showing a growth in power recently. I don't know how, but knowing that the Blood Moon is approaching, we have to take this information seriously."
Li Bai pauses only for a fraction of a second, and before you can finally find your voice, your mentor resumes his speech.
"If we continue on this way, ordinary exorcists won't even stand a chance against a single low ranked demon."
[[Next|Chapter 1.6]]As the last of your mentor's words register in your mind, you feel your face pale.
"It's that serious? Why hadn't you told me any sooner?"
"I wasn't sure if it was true. And I certainly didn't want to worry any of you."
You're in disbelief.
However, it's obvious from the way he looks at you, eyes holding a kind of desperation you've never seen before, that Li Bai truly means everything that he has said.
"I searched where the demons have been gathering. I thought that maybe we'd be able to get some information- any information- about the weird occurrences."
"And-"
"I want you to investigate it for me."
The realization dawns on you. Li Bai is being serious this time. You aren't being dispatched near the abode or the small towns close by that are still within the zone of safety your mentor has established years ago.
You are actually being sent to a place far from the comfort of this place in which you've found a home.
<<link [[Your heart flutters in anticipation.|Chapter 1.7]]>><<set $reaction to "heart optimist">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Bile rises in your throat in nervousness.|Chapter 1.7]]>><<set $reaction to "heart pessimist">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[You don't feel any particular emotion about the request.|Chapter 1.7]]>><<set $reaction to "mind">><<set $heart = $heart - 3>><</link>><<if $reaction is "heart optimist">>You feel your heart flutter in anticipation. This would be your first time taking on a major mission, and you can't help but get excited at the thought of leaving the comfort of your current home and set your feet back into the civilization you've left long time ago.<<elseif $reaction is "heart pessimist">>You gulp, feeling bile rise in your throat in nervousness. No matter how many missions you've been on before, now that you are having to leave the place you're nicely settled into, you can't help but get nervous thinking about the possibilities of everything that could go wrong.<<elseif $reaction is "mind">>You don't feel any particular emotion about the request. It can't be any different than the missions you've gone on previously, and it's your duty as an exorcist to fulfill these missions. There's no point in getting your emotions involved in this.<</if>>
"Of course, as much as it is your first major mission, I don't plan to send you off alone. This mission is pretty dangerous, after all."
Li Bai doesn't comment on your reaction, whether he finds it odd or not.
"Yi Rang will go with you. And of course, your personal guard will too."
Yi Rang, the one friend you've had ever since you ran away from your empire.
You haven't seen Yi Rang around recently, especially with the onslaught of mission the both of you had to go on during the past few weeks.
You figure that the mission wouldn't be so bad with two familiar faces around.
"So, where am I going?"
Li Bai hesitates, and he observes you warily, eyeing you as if you were a ticking time bomb, ready to explode any second. <<if $reaction is "heart optimist">>His reaction doesn't cease your excitement.<<elseif $reaction is "heart pessimist">>His reaction only makes you more nervous as you await for the news.<<elseif $reaction is "mind">>His reaction doesn't phase you much, other than to irritate you a bit.<</if>>
The next time he speaks, his voice is soothing, almost like he were singing a melodic lullaby, as he delivers the news to you.
"The Hwaryeon Empire."
[[Next|Chapter 2.0]]<br>
<br>
<h3 style="text-align:center;font-size:63px;">[[Chapter 2->Chapter2.1]]</h3>
<br>
<br>//"Your Highness, what have I told you about hiding away?" Do Hyun's voice, along with soft footsteps, draw you away from your wallowing.
When you look up, you find a young <<cycle "$DoHyunGender" autoselect>>
<<option "boy">>
<<option "girl">><</cycle>> standing in front of you.//
[[Next|Chapter 2.1-2]]//<<if $DoHyunGender is "boy">><<set $DoHyunThey to "he", $DoHyunThem to "him", $DoHyunTheir to "his", $DoHyunThemself to "himself">><<elseif $DoHyunGender is "girl">><<set $DoHyunThey to "she", $DoHyunThem to "her", $DoHyunTheir to "her", $DoHyunThemself to "herself">>
<</if>><<print ucfirst($DoHyunTheir)>> sharp blue eyes regard you in a way a predator would when assessing its prey. But even then, $DoHyunTheir eyes seem to betray a glint of concern, one that you're not sure whether is genuine or faux.
After all, Do Hyun was never the one to show emotions without purpose.
"Have those servants hurt you again?"//
<<link [[“I'm okay, really.”|Chapter2.1-3]]>><<set $genuine = $genuine + 3>><<set $reaction to "genuine">><</link>>
<<link [[“No, I got hurt on my own.” (sarcastic)|Chapter2.1-3]]>><<set $genuine = $genuine - 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>><<set $reaction to "sarcastic">><</link>>
<<link [[“It's not that big of a deal.”|Chapter2.1-3]]>><<set $expressive = $expressive - 3>><<set $reaction to "stoic">><</link>>
<<link [[“They've done worse before.”|Chapter2.1-3]]>><<set $optimistic = $optimistic + 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>><<set $reaction to "optimistic">><</link>>
<<link [[“Yes, when have they not?”|Chapter2.1-3]]>><<set $optimistic = $optimistic - 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>><<set $reaction to "pessimistic">><</link>>//Do Hyun raises an eyebrow. $DoHyunThey is pretty much accustomed to your attitude by now, but it seems as though it still amuses $DoHyunThem.
"...You've ought to start standing up for yourself." Do Hyun says, moving to sit next to you.
It is only then that you realize that $DoHyunThey is holding a small bottle of ointment and a basket of your favorite pastries.
Gently cupping your face, Do Hyun begins applying some ointment to the bruise on your cheek.
"It'd be a real pity if they scar that pretty face of yours." Do Hyun mumbles. You can't tell whether $DoHyunThey measnt for you to hear it.
"I can't have my fiance getting hurt now. I do have plans for you."//
<<link [["You...think I'm pretty?" ♡|Chapter2.1-4]]>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "shy">><<set $bold = $bold - 3; $DoHyunRomantic = $DoHyunRomantic + 1; $DoHyunPlatonic = $DoHyunPlatonic + 5>><</link>>
<<link [["Is that really the only reason why you tend to me?" ♡|Chapter2.1-4]]>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "bold">><<set $bold = $bold + 3; $DoHyunRomantic = $DoHyunRomantic + 1; $DoHyunPlatonic = $DoHyunPlatonic + 5>><</link>>
<<link [['"I know."'|Chapter2.1-4]]>><<set $genuine = $genuine + 3>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "neutral">><</link>>
<<link [['"Anything for you, puppeteer."'|Chapter2.1-4]]>><<set $genuine = $genuine - 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1; $DoHyunPlatonic = $DoHyunPlatonic + 3>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "neutral">><</link>>
<<link [['"Watch your tongue."'|Chapter2.1-4]]>><<set $expressive = $expressive + 3; $DoHyunPlatonic = $DoHyunPlatonic + 3>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "neutral">><</link>>
<<link [[Stay silent|Chapter2.1-4]]>><<set $expressive = $expressive - 3>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "neutral">><</link>>//<<if $DoHyunFlirt is "shy">>"You...think I'm pretty?"
Any other words Do Hyun said seem to escape your attention, and soon you find that your face has started to heat up.
Do Hyun's eyes observe you intensely, and you think you can see $DoHyunThem smirk. But it's gone as soon as it appeared, and you aren't too sure if you truly did see it properly.
"You should eat." Do Hyun chuckles.<<elseif $DoHyunFlirt is "bold">>"Is that really the only reason why you tend to me?" You drawl, mouth curling into a subtle smirk.
Do Hyun freezes for a moment, eyes widening only for a fraction of a second, before quickly regaining $DoHyunTheir composure.
"Of course...What other reason would I have?" <<print ucfirst($DoHyunThey)>> clears $DoHyunTheir throat, glancing away from you.
After a moment, Do Hyun looks back at you, $DoHyunTheir usual emotionless mask back on their face.
"You should eat." Do Hyun mumbles.<<elseif $DoHyunFlirt is "neutral">>"You should eat." Do Hyun sighs.<</if>>
Do Hyun hands you the basket of pastries, almost forcefully even. You accept the basket, but you glance at $DoHyunThem. You are surprised at $DoHyunTheir caring behavior, but you decide that you are too hungry to question it for now.
<<if $DoHyunRomantic gte 1>>"I've been informed by your...'guard'," Do Hyun's jaw tenses for a moment, and the word sounds foreign and forced coming from Do Hyun's mouth. "That you haven't been eating much these days."<<elseif $DoHyunRomantic lte 0>>"I've overheard from a few servants that you haven't been eating much these days."<</if>>
You grunt, letting out an annoyed huff. You grab a honey-rice cookie, taking in its floral design before taking a bite out of it.
"They've been keeping me from eating the past few days." You answer after swallowing down your first cookie. "Said some occassion is coming up, and I have to start tending to my appearance."
As you say that, Do Hyun tenses. While you stuff your mouth full of the delicacies, Do Hyun simply watches. <<print ucfirst($DoHyunThey)>> seems bit restless as if $DoHyunThey had something to say and is just waiting for a proper time to break the ice.
After a while, Do Hyun opens $DoHyunTheir mouth, letting out a large sigh.
"My father has arranged for us to get married next week."//
[[Next|Chapter2.1-5]]//You nearly choke on the food in your mouth.
It was a part of your agreement to get married eventually, but you certainly didn't expect Do Hyun to break the news to you like this.
"I know it is quite sudden, and I apologize." Do Hyun continues upon seeing your reaction. "It wasn't in my intention to get married this early, but my father and the Emperor have been in a hurry to get us wed."
The Emperor...
Your father and also the cause of your misery.
You never expected him to play the role of a loving father now after he's been neglectful all your life, but hearing that he's been insisting on you getting wed to Do Hyun feels as though you were being sold off by your own father.
Taking you silence as devastation, Do Hyun gently shakes you out of your shock. Do Hyun's expression betrays no indication of whatever emotion $DoHyunThey may be feeling currently, but for some reason, you can feel that $DoHyunThey is offering, or at least trying to offer, a sort of comfort.
<<if $DoHyunRomantic gte 1>>"If you truly do not wish to get married right now," Do Hyun pauses, a conflicted, maybe even a yearning look flashing over $DoHyunTheir face before being replaced by $DoHyunTheir usual nonchalant expression. "I can ask for the Emperor to delay it for a while...Until you're comfortable."<<elseif $DoHyunRomantic lte 0>>"If you truly do not wish to get married right now, I can ask for the Emperor to delay it for a while."<</if>>//
<<link [[“No! I mean- It's fine.” ♡|Chapter2.1-6]]>><<set $bold = $bold - 1; $DoHyunRomantic = $DoHyunRomantic + 1; $DoHyunPlatonic = $DoHyunPlatonic + 3>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "shy">><</link>>
<<link [[“No, I don't mind.” ♡|Chapter2.1-6]]>><<set $bold = $bold + 1; $DoHyunRomantic = $DoHyunRomantic + 1; $DoHyunPlatonic = $DoHyunPlatonic + 3>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "bold">><</link>>
<<link [[“Really? You really mean it?”|Chapter2.1-6]]>><<set $genuine = $genuine + 3>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "neutral">><</link>>
<<link [[“Since when did you care about my feelings?”|Chapter2.1-6]]>><<set $genuine = $genuine - 1>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "neutral">><</link>>
<<link [[“It's fine. We were going to get married anyway.”|Chapter2.1-6]]>><<set $expressive = $expressive - 3>><<set $DoHyunFlirt to "neutral">><</link>>//<<if $DoHyunFlirt is "shy">>"No! I mean- It's fine." You rush to reply, face burning in embarrassment. In all honesty, you didn't think that this marriage would be too bad.
"Are you sure?" Do Hyun raises an eyebrow. Upon seeing your flustered state, a frown settles on $DoHyunTheir face. "...You can tell me if you don't want to. I'm not going to force you to marry me right now."
You feel a bit disappointed at Do Hyun's response, but you aren't sure what you were expecting. It was Do Hyun. <<print ucfirst($DoHyunThey)>> has never shown any sort of romantic feelings towards you, and even when knowing that, you couldn't help the feelings that bloomed in your chest whenever you saw $DoHyunThem.
"Really?" You ask, swallowing down your disappointment.
<<elseif $DoHyunFlirt is "bold">>"No, I don't mind." A small grin dances on your lips as you lean closer to Do Hyun. Your grin only widens when you see Do Hyun jerk back. "Why do you ask? Not sure that you can handle me?"
"Of course not." Do Hyun scoffs, pushing you away. You think you can see a faint red hue dusting $DoHyunTheir cheeks. "I just wanted to make sure you're comfortable."
<<if $genuine gte 51>>"I'm perfectly comfortable, don't worry." You say. A small smile graces your lips. "I didn't take you to be such a...considerate person, though."<<elseif $genuine lte 50>>"How kind of you." You snort, rolling your eyes. "I didn't know you cared for me this much."<</if>>
<<elseif $DoHyunFlirt is "neutral">><</if>>"Why, of course."<<if $genuine gte 51>> Do Hyun lets out a soft chuckle.<<elseif $genuine lte 50>> Do Hyun rolls $DoHyunTheir eyes.<</if>> "I'm not going to force you to do anything you don't want to."
You study Do Hyun's face, looking for any trace of a lie. You're surprised when you find none.
Disregarding the suspicious expression you were giving $DoHyunThem, Do Hyun simply flashes you one of $DoHyunTheir rare genuine smiles.
<<if $DoHyunRomantic gte 2>>One of those sincere, understanding smiles that makes you feel safe and at home. One of those smiles that makes you feel wanted. Needed. Loved, even.
"I wish for you to become an irreplaceable pillar of this empire and live the rest of your life without having to lower your head to anyone ever again. So that this nation doesn't function without you."
You remain silent even as Do Hyun moves closer to you, in fear that the slighest noise might break this moment.
Do Hyun gently holds your hand in one of $DoHyunTheir own, rubbing your palm tenderly. <<print ucfirst($DoHyunThey)>> leans down, bringing your hand up, and $DoHyunTheir lips find the back of your hand.
"I'll make that happen. Until then, I'll never let go of your hand."
Do Hyun looks back up, slowly bringing $DoHyunTheir other hand to caress your face.
"I promise."
With the way Do Hyun looks at you, with so much sincerity and care, you can't help but fall deeper into $DoHyunTheir eyes.
And for a moment, just a moment, you want to believe that $DoHyunThey truly loves you.
<<elseif $DoHyunRomantic lte 1>><</if>>A moment passes, and a comfortable silence falls upon the two of you. Do Hyun looks over at you, and $DoHyunTheir eyes are kind. You're not sure if you can handle this type of attention from $DoHyunThem.
Do Hyun's eyes never leave your face, even when you look away.
@@filter:blur(0.5px);"I'm not a monster, <<print ucfirst($playername)>>. I'll never hurt you."@@
@@filter:blur(1px);"You can trust me."@@
@@filter:blur(1.75px);"I'm on your side."@@
@@filter:blur(2.5px);"I promise."@@//
@@filter:blur(1.5px);''[[Liar->Chapter 2.2-1]]''@@@@filter:blur(1px);''[['"-ness...Your Highness!"'|Chapter 2.2-3]]''@@"Huh?"
You want to slap yourself for how stupid you sounded.
It takes a while for you to actually regain your composure from the shock of the recollection. You blink a few times, and when you finally see the trees all around you, you remember where you are.
"I was asking whether you want to set up camp now." Yeon explains. There's a hint of concern in $YeonTheir eyes when $YeonThey looks at you. "Is that okay with you?"
You scan the area.
Yeon has chosen a pretty good spot, not too many trees to be hard to navigate, but just enough for you guys to take cover if needed. Your attention is then taken by the sun bleeding into the horizon, and you decide that it is in fact a good time to set up camp.
"Yeah, that sounds good..." You mutter.
Yeon doesn't say anything at your short response. The distant tone in your voice only makes $DoHyunThem more worried.
"...How do you feel about returning, $yourhighness?" Yeon asks softly.
You fumble with a response, thinking on what to say. Yeon never says so, but you know that $YeonThey knew whenever you were lying or hiding something. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> just never pursued the truth in fear of stressing you.
Yeon brings $YeonTheir horse to a stop, and you watch as $YeonThey slides off of it gracefully.
<<link [[“Just a bit nervous.”|Chapter2.2-4]]>><<set $returnreaction to "nervous">><<set $heart = $heart + 5; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“I missed home.”|Chapter2.2-4]]>><<set $returnreaction to "missing home">><<set $heart = $heart + 5; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“Can't wait to see how much has changed.”|Chapter2.2-4]]>><<set $returnreaction to "moved on">><<set $optimistic = $optimistic + 5; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3; $heart = $heart + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“I'm scared.”|Chapter2.2-4]]>><<set $returnreaction to "scared">><<set $heart = $heart + 5; $optimistic = $optimistic - 3; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“I couldn't care less if they all died.”|Chapter2.2-4]]>><<set $returnreaction to "hate">><<set $heart = $heart + 5; $badrep = $badrep + 1; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic - 7>><</link>>
<<link [[“It's just another mission.”|Chapter2.2-4]]>><<set $returnreaction to "neutral">><<set $heart = $heart - 5>><</link>><<if $returnreaction is "nervous">>"Just a bit nervous."
You haven't set foot in that kingdom since five years ago, when you ran away. You weren't sure if you were truly ready to return. You're not sure if you can handle the memories.
Yeon's eyes soften, and you feel your nerves calm down, even if just a litte. The familiarity of $YeonTheir presence alone seems to pacify most if not all negative thoughts in your mind.<<elseif $returnreaction is "missing home">>"I missed home."
You think back wistfully. Images of familiar streets and scenery of your home, or what used to be your home, appear in your mind.
Yeon gives you a sympathetic smile, and $YeonThey hum softly, as if $YeonThey could relate to you. It feels nice to know that someone could understand how you felt for once.<<elseif $returnreaction is "moved on">>"Can't wait to see how much has changed."
You have moved on from the tragedy. After all, it's the reason you are the person you've become today. You might not have been able to fully utilize your abilities had you remained in the kingdom.
Yeon looks shocked, $YeonTheir eyes widening for a moment. Yeon's expression soon melts into a smile, and $YeonThey even seems proud of you for having moved on.<<elseif $reaction is "scared">>"I'm scared."
Your people have been eager to have you dead back when you were their ruler. Who knows what they might do now that you're not of any special position?
Yeon's eyes soften, and you feel your nerves calm down, even if just a litte. The familiarity of $YeonTheir presence alone seems to pacify most if not all negative thoughts in your mind.<<elseif $returnreaction is "hate">>"I couldn't care less if they all died."
They betrayed you. They tore you down from your rightful place that you earned. They were so eager to kill you. Surely, they didn't expect you to help thtme now.
Yeon frowns. You can tell $YeonThey disapproves, and for a moment, it seems as though $YeonThey wants to say something. But instead, Yeon simply bites back $YeonTheir words and nods at you.<<elseif $returnreaction is "neutral">>"It's just another mission."
You're not particularly keen about returning, but it is a mission after all. You might as well just come to terms with it. There is no point in complaining about it anyways.
Yeon laughs but quickly recovers $YeonTheir composure. Yeon has known you long enough to know that your sense of duty can overpower any sense of emotion you feel, but it seems $YeonThey still finds it admirable. Or amusing. You can't quite decipher the look in $YeonTheir eyes.<</if>>
"Whatever happens, I'll be here. I won't let anyone harm you..." Yeon says, offering $YeonTheir hand to help you down from your horse.
<<link [[“Umm...Thanks.” ♡|Chapter2.2-5]]>><<set $reaction to "shy"; $YeonFlirt to "true">><<set $YeonRomantic = $YeonRomantic + 1; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3>><<set $bold = $bold - 3>><</link>>
<<link [[“Ah, my Prince Charming!” ♡|Chapter2.2-5]]>><<set $reaction to "bold"; $YeonFlirt to "true">><<set $YeonRomantic = $YeonRomantic + 1; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3>><<set $bold = $bold + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[“Thanks, I appreciate it.”|Chapter2.2-5]]>><<set $reaction to "genuine"; $YeonFlirt to "false">><<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3>><<set $genuine = $genuine + 3>><<set $expressive = $expressive + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“Really? How nice of you.” (sarcastic)|Chapter2.2-5]]>><<set $reaction to "sarcastic"; $YeonFlirt to "false">><<set $genuine = $genuine - 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“I can get down on my own.”|Chapter2.2-5]]>><<set $reaction to "stoic"; $YeonFlirt to "false">><<set $expressive = $expressive - 3; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic - 1>><</link>>@@filter:blur(3px);''[[“Highness...”|Chapter 2.2-2]]''@@<<if $reaction is "shy">>"Umm...Thanks." You mumble as you gently accept Yeon's hand. Warmth envelopes your chest as Yeon carefully helps you down.
The moment feels special, almost like time was slowing down, and though Yeon struggles to look you in the eyes, you can feel the sincerity behind $YeonTheir promise.<<elseif $reaction is "bold">>"Ah, my Prince Charming!" You pretend to swoon. The corners of your lips perk up into a teasing smirk, and you take Yeon's hand in yours.
Before Yeon can help you down, you pull $YeonThem close, leaning down to look into $YeonTheir eyes. Your smirk widens when you see Yeon's face flush red.
"Or perhaps you'd prefer to be my knight in shining armor?"<<elseif $reaction is "genuine">>"Thanks, I appreciate it." You smile, accepting Yeon's hand.
"Of course, you are my master. I live to serve you." Yeon gives you a smile, nodding as $YeonThey help you down.<<elseif $reaction is "sarcastic">>"Really? How nice of you." You tease, accepting Yeon's hand.
Your teasing tone is enough for Yeon to begin bracing $YeonThemself for your oncoming sarcasm.
"I mean, it's literally your job, but thanks I guess."<<elseif $reaction is "stoic">>"I can get down on my own." You mumble.
Yeon sighs, chuckling a little at your stoicism. Yeon doesn't seem to mind, at this point $YeonThey was already used to it, but you can see a bit of a disappointed frown forming on $YeonTheir face.
"...Thanks though." You add quietly.
"No problem." Yeon says, $YeonTheir expression brightening immediately.<</if>>
Before either of you can do anything else, a rustle of leaves draw both your attention towards the shadows of the forest.
"Glad to see you're feeling better." A voice interrupts the tranquil quiet of the forest. There's a hint of teasing in the playful, cheery voice.
You turn to face a slender figure of a <<cycle "$YiRangGender" autoselect>>
<<option "man">>
<<option "woman">><</cycle>> emerge from within the shadows.
[[Next->Chapter 2.2-6]]<<if $YiRangGender is "man">><<set $YiRangThey to "he", $YiRangThem to "him", $YiRangTheir to "his", $YiRangThemself to "himself">><<elseif $YiRangGender is "woman">><<set $YiRangThey to "she", $YiRangThem to "her", $YiRangTheir to "her", $YiRangThemself to "herself">><</if>>\
Yi Rang’s steps are light, and the way $YiRangThey moves reminds you of an agile cat. Yi Rang’s eyes seem to gleam even in dim light of the fading sun as $YiRangThey looks at you.
“Last time I saw you, you were stuck in bed because you got beat by some crow demon.” Yi Rang hums.
“Oh please. That was one time.” You fire back. “Besides, that was two weeks ago.”
“Hmm, but still.” Yi Rang hums, stretching $YiRangTheir arms behind $YiRangTheir head dramatically “Who gets beat by a crow demon?”
You only roll your eyes. You decide to stop yourself before you can point out the numerous times Yi Rang got hurt $YiRangThemself.
“Yi Rang, since when have you been watching anyway?” You ask.
<<if $YeonFlirt is "true">>“Since the two of you started getting all lovey dovey.” Yi Rang fake gags.<<elseif $YeonFlirt is "false">>“Since a few moment ago.” Yi Rang shrugs.<</if>>
[[Next|Chapter2.2-7]]“Just getting back from your solo mission?” You observe Yi Rang.
Thankfully, this time, Yi Rang appears to have returned without much injuries. Maybe except the one concerning wound running along $YiRangTheir shoulder, Yi Rang seems completely fine.
Considering how reckless Yi Rang could be, you’re just glad that you won’t have to be pulling the weight of 2 people on your own during this mission.
“Do you have any new information regarding our objective?”
No response follows your question, and you turn towards Yi Rang to see the cause of the silence. You find Yi Rang standing there, glaring at you.
“That’s the first thing you ask me?” Yi Rang pouts.
“What else is there to ask?” You ask.
“Well, you could’ve certainly asked if I’ve been well.” Yi Rang whines. “I haven’t seen you in three days!”
“Didn't you miss me?” Yi Rang grins, sauntering over to you. There is a playful skip in $YiRangTheir steps, and any worries you’ve had seem to fade away in the light of Yi Rang’s jest.
<<link [[“Maybe...A little?” ♡|Chapter2.2-8]]>>
<<set $reaction to "shy">><<set $YiRangRomantic = $YiRangRomantic + 1; $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 3>><<set $bold = $bold - 3>><</link>>
<<link [[“Not as much as you missed me, I'm sure.” ♡|Chapter2.2-8]]>>
<<set $reaction to "bold">><<set $YiRangRomantic = $YiRangRomantic + 1; $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 3>><<set $bold = $bold + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[“Of course!”|Chapter2.2-8]]>>
<<set $reaction to "genuine">><<set $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 5; $genuine = $genuine + 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“Oh, certainly not.”|Chapter2.2-8]]>>
<<set $reaction to "sarcastic">><<set $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 5; $genuine = $genuine - 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>>
<</link>>
<<link [[“It's only been three days.”|Chapter2.2-8]]>>
<<set $reaction to "stoic">><<set $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic - 3; $expressive = $expressive - 3>><</link>><<if $reaction is "shy">>“Only a little?” Yi Rang purrs, leaning in close. In your flustered state, you fail to notice the teasing smirk on $YiRangTheir face. A fondness deeper than you’ve ever seen can be found within the pools of chocolate brown staring at you. “Why, you truly wound me. I thought I was going to die without you around. To think I mean so little to you.”<<elseif $reaction is "bold">>“Oh, you seem pretty sure about that.” Yi Rang trails a finger down your jaw. Yi Rang quickly withdraws however, clearing $YiRangTheir throat. If you were to look close enough, you’d be able to see the slightest bit of a blush dusting $YiRangTheir cheeks. And although Yi Rang now sports a flustered look, the grin never leaves $YiRangTheir face. If anything, it seems to widen a bit. “It’s true. I did, indeed, miss you. Quite a bit, may I add.”<<elseif $reaction is "stoic">>“Only three days?!” Yi Rang lets out a faux gasp. “It felt like three centuries to me, and you’re telling me it was only three days to you?!”<<elseif $reaction is "genuine">>“Well, I missed you too!” Yi Rang’s grin softens into something more sincere, shedding $YiRangTheir usual playful front.<<elseif $reaction is "sarcastic">>“Are you sure about that?” Yi Rang hums. “And here I thought you’d like some company during your travels. I mean, who else would contribute joy to your gloominess?”<</if>>
You give Yi Rang a look and open your mouth to retort to Yi Rang's pouting, but Yi Rang shushes you by placing a finger near your lips.
“Anyways, I do have some new info.” Yi Rang starts. “Not sure if it’ll be of any help.”
“Any information would be of help right now.” You reply.
Yi Rang seems like $YiRangThey is about to say something witty, but you give $YiRangThem a knowing look and Yi Rang immediately shuts $YiRangTheir mouth.
<<print ucfirst($YiRangTheir)>> expression then changes into something more serious, but even then, you can still see a glint of mischief in $YiRangTheir eyes.
“I met a vigilante group, just a bunch of rogues and outcasts, orphans even, who are currently helping citizens of numerous cities.”
[[Next|Chapter2.2-9]]A moment of silence passes.
You share a glance with Yeon, and $YeonThey appears as though $YeonThey harbors the same confusion as you.
This was supposed to be new info?
“Why is this information significant? There are plenty of vigilante groups nowadays,” Yeon speaks up. “…with how the Royal Council is running the kingdom.”
You have to resist the urge to groan. The news about what used to be your empire makes you want to grimace. Not really because of the memories of what could have been yours, but more because of the state of the nation.
Those advisors have the audacity to strip you of your title, yet they can’t even run the kingdom properly.
<<if $returnsreaction is "nervous">>You hope that maybe the chaos would help your current situation. Perhaps the officials would be too focused on quenching their greed that they wouldn’t notice your reappearance after your supposed “death.”<<elseif $returnreaction is "moved on">>Of course, it didn’t really concern you anymore, but you certainly didn’t feel happy about hearing innocent civilians dying in cold blood.<<elseif $returnreaction is "missing home">>Of course, it didn’t really concern you anymore, but you certainly didn’t feel happy about hearing innocent civilians dying in cold blood.<<elseif $returnreaction is "scared">>You hope that maybe the chaos would help your current situation. Perhaps the officials would be too focused on quenching their greed that they wouldn’t notice your reappearance after your supposed “death.”<<elseif $returnreaction is "neutral">>You felt bad about their current predicament, but you hoped that it wouldn’t get in the way of your mission. You already had enough on your hands.<<elseif $returnreaction is "hate">>It was delighting to hear that the empire was going to ruins. You didn’t care for them, not now. It was no longer your empire, and after what they’ve done to you, you don’t think they deserve any of your sympathy. It was a pity that their downfall wasn’t by your hands.<</if>>
[[Next|Chapter2.2-10]]“Ah, that’s true. But this group is different.” Yi Rang’s voice brings you out of your thoughts. “They seem to be able to face off a small low ranked demon.”
Silence ensues after Yi Rang says so. You scan $YiRangTheir face to see if $YiRangThey was joking.
“Are they exorcists?” You ask eventually.
Yi Rang glances at you before looking away, and $YiRangTheir tongue flickers out to wet $YiRangTheir lips. You haven’t seen Yi Rang look so unsure and uneasy before.
“No, that’s the thing.” Yi Rang sighs. All of $YiRangTheir previous playfulness were gone by now. “I couldn’t feel any kind of aura from them.”
You want to argue that it was impossible. Even exorcists sometimes had trouble going against low ranked demons.
How could normal human beings face off demons without any form of magical capabilities?
But at this point, can you truly determine what is impossible and what’s not? Your life has been flipped upside down since your mentor assigned you the mission two days ago.
[[Next|Chapter2.2-11]]“...And you’ve confirmed this information to be true?” Yeon asks hesitantly.
“Of course!” Yi Rang proudly states. “Why would you even ask?”
You give Yi Rang a pointed look.
“Because you’re not really credible when it comes to information.”
“Shush! I’m still better than you.” Yi Rang grumbles. <<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> animatedly crosses $YiRangTheir arms and narrows $YiRangTheir eyes at you. “My abilities are far better in gathering information than yours. Besides, I’m a core disciple. Show some respect to your senior!”
“You sure don’t act like one.” You state.
Yi Rang gasps. Before $YiRangThey can retort, Yeon swiftly cuts off any more small talk.
“So is that all we have to know? We already got most of the details...”
Yi Rang nods, still huffing in indignation. “Yes, that’s all you need to know. And-!”
Yi Rang pauses, $YiRangTheir face pulled into a dramatic expression. Yi Rang raises a finger, pointing it at you.
“For your information, I do act like a Core Disciple...when it matters.”
You roll your eyes.
“Sure, sure. Whatever floats your boat.”
[[Next|Chapter2.2-12]]The sun is setting, its orange hue bleeding through the blue sky. The camp is now properly set up, credit to Yeon’s hard work. You have some free time left before you need to sleep, and you wonder what you should do.
//You have time for two activities.//
<<link [[Sparring with Yeon]]>>
<<set $YeonSparring to true>><</link>>
<<link [[Treating Yi Rang's wound]]>>
<<set $YiRangWound to true>><</link>>
<<link [[Meditate]]>>
<<set $meditate to true>><</link>>
<<link [[Scout the area]]>>
<<set $scout to true>><</link>>“Hey, Yeon.” You call out.
Yeon is training in a secluded area near camp, and it took a while for you to find $YeonThem.
Yeon turns back to look at you, a thin coat of sweat glistening over $YeonTheir skin. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> gives you a warm smile as $YeonThey brings a cloth up to $YeonTheir face to wipe some of the sweat away.
“How may I help you, $yourhighness?” Yeon asks, sheathing $YeonTheir sword.
You examine Yeon’s state. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> doesn’t seem too tired, you are sure Yeon wouldn’t mind one spar.
“Spar with me.” You say. When Yeon hesitates, you add, “Winner gets to ask the loser for a wish.”
“I’m not against the bet but…” Yeon raises $YeonTheir brows. Yeon seems amused by your offer. “Are you sure?”
<<link [[“Of course! I've beaten you before.”|Sparring with Yeon.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "skilled">><<set $physical = $physical + 20>><</link>>
<<link [[“Yes, I'll beat you this time.”|Sparring with Yeon.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "intermediate">><<set $physical = $physical + 10>><</link>>
<<link [[“Not really, but I do need training.”|Sparring with Yeon.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "beginner">><</link>>“Are you okay?” You ask as you approach Yi Rang.
Yi Rang is sitting on a large rock, peeling off $YiRangTheir outer robes. You can see blood seeping out of the long gash on $YiRangTheir shoulder.
You look at Yi Rang, a silent request to observe $YiRangTheir wound, one which Yi Rang only replies with a nod.
“…Surprisingly I didn’t get hurt much this time.” Yi Rang jokes.
You send Yi Rang a slight glare, as if to signal that $YiRangTheir jokes won't help $YiRangThem worm out of this this time.
“I thought you promised to not get hurt during missions?” You let out an exasperated sigh.
“We promised each other,” Yi Rang pauses, a low hiss escaping $YiRangThem when your fingers graze over $YiRangTheir wound. “That we would try not to get hurt. //Try//.”
You give Yi Rang a stern look, and you carefully work to stitch $YiRangTheir wound. Yi Rang lets out a breathy whine, giving you a pout when you work on a particularly painful stitch.
A silence ensues between you two, and Yi Rang fidgets, unable to deal with the quiet, solemn atmosphere. <<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> had never been good at dealing with such scenarios.
“Sorry…” Yi Rang says sheepishly after a while. Yirang scratches at the back of $YiRangTheir neck. “For worrying you…”
<<link [[“You should be sorry...” ♡|Treating YiRang's Wound.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "shy">><<set $YiRangRomantic = $YiRangRomantic + 1; $bold = $bold - 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“Wow, I never knew you could apologize.” ♡|Treating YiRang's Wound.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "bold">><<set $YiRangRomantic = $YiRangRomantic + 1; $bold = $bold + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“You did worry me.”|Treating YiRang's Wound.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "genuine">><<set $genuine = $genuine + 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“Oh, I just didn’t want any dead weight on this mission.”|Treating YiRang's Wound.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "sarcastic">><<set $genuine = $genuine - 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>><</link>>
<<link [[“Just be careful next time.”|Treating YiRang's Wound.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "stoic">><<set $expressive = $expressive - 3; $genuine = $genuine + 1>><</link>>Deciding to train your spiritual finesse during the free time you have, you settle down nearby underneath the small shade of a tree. You close your eyes and try to connect with the nature surrounding you, and soon enough, you feel energy building up in your core.
Your senses sharpen as your meditation continues. The wind brushes your skin, and the smallest noise tickles your ears.
You can faintly sense Yeon’s presence behind a nearby tree, probably standing guard in case of any danger or sudden contingency that may occur during your meditation.
Despite your great efforts to focus on your meditation, your current mission and worries lead your thoughts lingering elsewhere.
You find your thoughts drifting towards...
<<link [[Yeon|Meditate.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeon">><</link>>
<<link [[Yi Rang|Meditate.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yirang">><</link>>
<<link [[Do Hyun|Meditate.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyun">><</link>>
@@filter:blur(3px);<<link [[Haram|Meditate.2]]>>@@
<<set $reaction to "haram">><</link>>You glance about the forest surrounding your little camp, and feeling watched and more than a bit uneasy, you decide to scout the area.
After getting your weapon and thoroughly preparing yourself for any dangers that may occur, you head off into the forest after briefly informing Yi Rang and Yeon.
"You should stay here. It's dangerous, $YourHighness." Yeon says. "If the woods truly make you feel uneasy, I can scout the area for you."
"I'm fine. Just think of it as taking a walk." You say, shrugging off Yeon's concerns.
"You know, I have to agree with your guard with this one." Yi Rang adds. "We're no longer in the old man's territory. The barrier ended several kilometers back. You haven't been out of that territory since your exile, haven't you? It's pretty dangerous. Even I have trouble out here sometimes."
"I'll be fine, really." You say. "I can protect myself. And if anything happens, I still have that protection amulet that Master gave me a few months ago."
Yi Rang accepts your words, and $YiRangThey gives you one last warning before going off to mind $YiRangTheir own business. Yeon remains a bit worried, but backs off your case, probably not wanting to come off as too overprotective.
[[Next|Scout the area.2]]<<if $reaction is "shy">>“You should be sorry. You mean a lot to me.” You mumble, frowning as you look up at $YiRangThem.
You gaze into Yi Rang’s eyes, and you begin to feel increasingly flustered as Yi Rang grins at you.
"Really? Then I'll make sure to stay careful from now on." Yi Rang drawls.<<elseif $reaction is "bold">>“Wow, I never knew you could apologize.” You grin playfully as you lean closer to $YiRangThem.
You look deeply into Yi Rang’s eyes, and $YiRangThey looks back at you with wide puppy eyes, seemingly caught off guard by your sudden proximity.<<elseif $reaction is "genuine">>“You did worry me. But you do this every mission, I don’t know why I’m ever surprised.” You sigh.
Yi Rang averts $YiRangTheir gaze, scratching $YiRangTheir cheek awkwardly, seemingly ashamed of the fact that $YiRangThey worried you again.<<elseif $reaction is "sarcastic">>“Oh, I just didn’t want any dead weight on this mission.” You quip.
Yi Rang looks at you with a subtle pout, rolling $YiRangTheir eyes, but you can see $YiRangTheir lips quirk up in a small smile.<<elseif $reaction is "stoic">>"Just be careful next time." You huff.
You want to say something more, but seeing the way Yi Rang seemed so dejected, you decide to keep quiet.<</if>>
Yi Rang doesn't say anything more, and you continue to patch up Yirang's wound. After a moment of silence, you finally relent to your curiosity.
“What was it this time?” You ask.
You wait for Yi Rang’s answer, but Yi Rang only looks at you with obvious confusion on $YiRangTheir face.
“Why did you get hurt this time?” You clarify.
Yi Rang always seemed to have a reason as to why $YiRangThey got hurt. Even on missions that are completely safe, or the missions that $YiRangThey is fully capable of completing without injury, Yi Rang manages to get hurt in one way or another.
You wonder what it was that caused $YiRangThem to get hurt this time around, considering the mission was fairly simple.
[[Next|Treating YiRang's Wound.3]]<<if $YiRangPlatonic gte 61>>“…There were a bunch of bandits that were threatening a mother and her child.” Yi Rang huffs. “I couldn’t just walk away after seeing that.”
You listen to Yi Rang silently, gently healing $YiRangTheir wound. You couldn’t quite get mad at $YiRangThem, especially not when $YiRangThey was simply acting by $YiRangTheir moral code.
“Oh, but I did get into a fight with a member of that vigilante group I told you about.” Yi Rang with a dorky grin.
Before you can land a reprimanding smack on Yi Rang’s back, $YiRangThey has already gotten up, jumping away from you and onto a nearby tree branch.
“You’re not planning to hit your patient, are you?” Yi Rang laughs.
As if sensing your annoyance, Yi Rang turns to flee, getting ready to jump into the forest. Before actually leaving, though, $YiRangThey glances back at you and tosses you a pouch.
You open it carefully, praying that it wasn't one of Yi Rang's prank bombs. You're pleasantly surprised to find some of your favorite pastries in the pouch instead.
When you look back up, you find that Yi Rang is no longer near.<<elseif $YiRangPlatonic lte 60>>"It's nothing." Yi Rang shrugs. <<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> doesn't say anything more, and you understand that it's a sign not to push for more.
After you finish stitching $YiRangTheir wound, Yi Rang turns to flee, getting ready to jump into the forest. Before actually leaving, though, $YiRangThey glances back at you and tosses you a pouch.
You open it carefully, praying that it wasn't one of Yi Rang's prank bombs. You're pleasantly surprised to find some of your favorite pastries in the pouch instead.
When you look back up, you find that Yi Rang is no longer near.<</if>>
[[Next|Chapter2.2-13]]You return to camp. The sky is pitch black, save for a few stars decorating it. The rather void atmosphere of the silent forest is now filled with the dim lights of fireflies and the quiet chirping of crickets.
//You have time for one more activity.//
<<link [[Cooking with Yeon]]>>
<<set $YeonCooking to true>><</link>>
<<link [[Stargazing with Yi Rang]]>>
<<set $YiRangStargazing to true>><</link>>
<<if not $meditate>><<link [[Meditate|Meditate2]]>><<set $meditate to true>><</link>>
<<else>><</if>><<if not $scout>><<link [[Scout the area|Scout the area2]]>><<set $scout to true>><</link>><<else>><</if>>Leaving the two behind, along with their worries, you venture into the forest. You maintain your guard, staying alert to any noise and movement.
Nothing really happens during your short walk, and you turn to head back to the camp.
Just as you approach near the camp, a faint rustling of leaves catch your attention, and you quickly turn your head, only to see a fleeting silhouette disappearing into the shadows.
You think you see a flash of red, but within the second you blink, any trace of the red object is gone, only rustling leaves where the figure once stood.
You can’t quite identify the figure, though it appears humanoid. You can only make out a glimmer of silver as the figure disappears into the forest and the faint sound of a crow’s squawk. Though you can’t shake off the lingering unpleasant suspicion you return to camp, keeping a mental note of the occasion.
[[Next|Chapter2.2-13]]You approach Yeon by the campfire. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> looks up as you approach and gives you a gentle smile.
"What are you cooking?" You ask. You glance at the meat and vegetables laid out nearby.
"Ah, it's nothing impressive." Yeon chuckles. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> looks back towards the campfire, and you think you can see a rather nostalgic look in $YeonTheir eyes. "Just some beef stew."
You sit down next to Yeon.
<<link [[“I didn't know you could cook.”|Cooking with Yeon.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "genuine">><</link>>
<<link [[“Do you like cooking?”|Cooking with Yeon.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "genuine">><</link>>
<<link [[“Do you need help?”|Cooking with Yeon.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "help">><</link>>
<<link [[“You're not trying to poison me, are you?”|Cooking with Yeon.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "sarcastic">><</link>>You step through the forest, following the little trail of magic Yi Rang left behind. After a while, you arrive at a clearing, and you see Yi Rang laying on the grass, staring at the starry sky above.
"Yi Rang." You call out.
Yi Rang sits up upon hearing your voice, and $YiRangThey grins. "Hey!"
Yi Rang pats the grass next to $YiRangThem, inviting you to sit with them. <<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> doesn't say anything else until you are sitting nearby, and Yi Rang falls back onto the fresh grass.
"Isn't the sky beautiful?" Yi Rang asks after a while.
<<link [[“Yeah...Very beautiful.” ♡|Stargazing with Yi Rang.2]]>>
<<set $YiRangRomantic = $YiRangRomantic + 1; $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 3; $bold = $bold - 3>><<set $reaction to "shy">><</link>>
<<link [[“Not as much as you.” ♡|Stargazing with Yi Rang.2]]>>
<<set $YiRangRomantic = $YiRangRomantic + 1; $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 3; $bold = $bold + 3>><<set $reaction to "bold">><</link>>
<<link [[“It is.”|Stargazing with Yi Rang.2]]>>
<<set $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 5; $genuine = $genuine + 3;$expressive = $expressive + 1>><<set $reaction to "genuine">><</link>>
<<link [[“Well, it's always like that.”|Stargazing with Yi Rang.2]]>>
<<set $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 3; $genuine = $genuine - 3; $expressive = $expressive + 1>><<set $reaction to "sarcastic">><</link>>
<<link [[“I suppose.”|Stargazing with Yi Rang.2]]>>
<<set $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 1; $expressive = $expressive - 3>><<set $reaction to "stoic">><</link>>Deciding to train your spiritual finesse during the free time you have, you settle down nearby underneath the small shade of a tree. You close your eyes and try to connect with the nature surrounding you, and soon enough, you feel energy building up in your core.
Your senses sharpen as your meditation continues. The wind brushes your skin, and the smallest noise tickles your ears.
You can faintly sense Yeon’s presence behind a nearby tree, probably standing guard in case of any danger or sudden contingency that may occur during your meditation.
Despite your great efforts to focus on your meditation, your current mission and worries lead your thoughts lingering elsewhere.
You find your thoughts drifting towards...
<<link [[Yeon|Meditate2.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeon">><</link>>
<<link [[Yi Rang|Meditate2.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yirang">><</link>>
<<link [[Do Hyun|Meditate2.2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyun">><</link>>
@@filter:blur(3px);<<link [[Haram|Meditate2.2]]>>@@
<<set $reaction to "haram">><</link>>You glance about the forest surrounding your little camp, and feeling watched and more than a bit uneasy, you decide to scout the area.
After getting your weapon and thoroughly preparing yourself for any dangers that may occur, you head off into the forest after briefly informing Yi Rang and Yeon.
"You should stay here. It's dangerous, $YourHighness." Yeon says. "If the woods truly make you feel uneasy, I can scout the area for you."
"I'm fine. Just think of it as taking a walk." You say, shrugging off Yeon's concerns.
"You know, I have to agree with your guard with this one." Yi Rang adds. "We're no longer in the old man's territory. The barrier ended several kilometers back. You haven't been out of that territory since your exile, haven't you? It's pretty dangerous. Even I have trouble out here sometimes."
"I'll be fine, really." You say. "I can protect myself. And if anything happens, I still have that protection amulet that Master gave me a few months ago."
Yi Rang accepts your words, and $YiRangThey gives you one last warning before going off to mind $YiRangTheir own business. Yeon remains a bit worried, but backs off your case, probably not wanting to come off as too overprotective.
[[Next|Scout the area2.2]]Leaving the two behind, along with their worries, you venture into the forest. You maintain your guard, staying alert to any noise and movement.
Nothing really happens during your short walk, and you turn to head back to the camp.
Just as you approach near the camp, a faint rustling of leaves catch your attention, and you quickly turn your head, only to see a fleeting silhouette disappearing into the shadows.
You think you see a flash of red, but within the second you blink, any trace of the red object is gone, only rustling leaves where the figure once stood.
You can’t quite identify the figure, though it appears humanoid. You can only make out a glimmer of silver as the figure disappears into the forest and the faint sound of a crow’s squawk. Though you can’t shake off the lingering unpleasant suspicion you return to camp, keeping a mental note of the occasion.
[[Next|Chapter2.2-14]]After having exhausted yourself today with the long travel and extra activities, you get ready to sleep. You had offered to stand guard tonight, but neither Yeon nor Yi Rang seemed to be okay with that.
You eventually had to retreat to the tent due to both Yeon and Yi Rang's persistent nagging, leaving the two to sort out sleeping arrangements and guard duty on their own.
[[Next|Chapter2.2-15]]<<if $reaction is "genuine">>"...It's something I picked up back in my childhood." Yeon hums in response. "I don't particularly enjoy it, but I think I'm the only one out of the three of us who can cook a decent, edible meal."<<elseif $reaction is "help">>"No, it's fine.You shouldn't have to lift your fingers for such a thing..." Yeon chuckles, glancing at you with a soft gaze. Yeon's lips quirk into a small smirk. "If you can even prep the ingredients."<<elseif $reaction is "sarcastic">>"No, it won't poison you." Yeon replies with a small laugh, $YeonTheir shoulders relaxing at your comment. "I might have thought of it though."<</if>>
<<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> waits for the water to boil before dropping in some fresh vegetables. "I often cooked for my siblings when my mother was too busy."
You glance at Yeon, who seems entirely focused on the boiling pot sitting in from of $YeonThem. Seeing $YeonThem like this, sitting side by side, and a somewhat lonely expression reflected on $YeonTheir face, lit by the dim light of the campfire, you become aware of just how little you knew about Yeon despite spending so much time with $YeonThem.
"There's a lot that I don't know about you."
Yeon only smiles, a soft sigh escaping $YeonTheir lips.
"You are my master, and you have my unconditional loyalty." Yeon answers, handing you a bowl of stew. "You have no obligation to initiate a more personal relationship with me."
<<link [[“But I want to know more about you.” ♡|Cooking with Yeon.Romance]]>>
<<set $YeonRomantic = $YeonRomantic + 1; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 10>><</link>>
<<link [[“Is it hard to talk about?”|Cooking with Yeon.Other]]>>
<<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3>><<set $reaction to "platonic">><</link>>
<<link [[“Okay, if you say so.”|Cooking with Yeon.Other]]>>
<<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic - 3>><<set $reaction to "dismissive">><</link>>"But I want to know more about you." You say. "You mean more to me than just a personal knight."
Yeon doesn't say anything in response to your words. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> only stares at the bowl of beef stew in $YeonTheir hands. The look in $YeonTheir eyes are one you haven't ever seen on $YeonThem before.
For the first time ever, Yeon seems a bit...vulnerable.
"Can you tell me?" You ask carefully. "If it's too sensitive of a topic, you don't have to answer me."
"No, it's not that bad." Yeon mumbles. <<print ucfirst($YeonTheir)>> voice sounds wistful as $YeonThey says this.
Yeon pauses. $YeonThey appears hesitant about revealing their past, for what reason, you're not sure. Yeon eats a spoonful of the beef stew, and only after swallowing the first spoonful of stew does Yeon start talking.
<<if $YeonPlatonic gte 71>>[[Next|Cooking with Yeon.RomanceGood]]<<elseif $YeonPlatonic lte 70>>[[Next|Cooking with Yeon.RomanceBad]]<</if>><<if $reaction is "platonic">>"Is it hard to talk about?" You ask.
"Not really." Yeon smiles. "But, please understand, $yourhigness. I'd rather not talk about it now. There are plenty of problems we have to deal with already, no?"
You can't help but feel that Yeon's answer was a bit evasive even with $YeonTheir hesitation, but you nod.
"Can you tell me next time?" You ask.
"Of course." Yeon smiles. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> glances at your untouched stew. "You should eat now, $yourhigness. It doesn't taste all too good when it's cold."<<elseif $reaction is "dismissive">>“Okay, if you say so.” You mumble.
Yeon only nods, and though (he/she) visibly relaxes at your dismissal, there is a glint of pain and disappointment in (his/her) eyes.<</if>>
[[Next|Chapter2.2-14]]"I was born from a poor family. Despite my father being one of the greatest war generals, our family wasn't quite welcomed around anywhere. I'm not sure why..." Yeon explains.
"My father would be out on patrols nearly everyday, and my mother had fallen sick by the time she had birthed my third sibling." A tired smile pulls the corners of Yeon's mouth. You think you can even see a glimmer of tears in $YeonTheir eyes. "I was only 6 years old when my father went off to war. My mother was bedridden by then, and I had to take care of most household chores."
You can see the fire dancing in Yeon's grey eyes, which now seemed murky, tired, perhaps even conflicted. It was scarce for you to see such emotions in $YeonTheir eyes; those steel eyes always seemed to hold confidence and an aura of strength to them it felt foreign to see Yeon like this.
"The war ended two years later, but my father never came home. Instead, his sword was the only thing that was returned to my family. They couldn't even recover his corpse."
Yeon pauses, $YeonTheir eyes flickering towards you in a short moment of hesitance, and $YeonThey bites $YeonTheir lips.
"My mother lost her mind after hearing of my father's death. She died not too long after, and then I set off to become a knight to support my siblings."
<<link [[“I'm sorry.”|Cooking with Yeon.RomanceGood2]]>>
<<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3>><<set $reaction to "sorry">><</link>>
<<link [[“Thank you for telling me.”|Cooking with Yeon.RomanceGood2]]>>
<<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 5>><<set $reaction to "thank">><</link>>
<<link [[Give Yeon a hug|Cooking with Yeon.RomanceGood2]]>>
<<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 7>><<set $reaction to "hug">><</link>>"My father was a general. He would be out on patrols nearly everyday, and my mother was busy trying to nurture me and my three siblings." Yeon starts, $YeonTheir eyes fixed on the fire before $YeonThem.
You can see the fire dancing in Yeon's grey eyes, which now seemed murky, tired, perhaps even conflicted. It was scarce for you to see such emotions in $YeonTheir eyes; those steel eyes always seemed to hold confidence and an aura of strength to them it felt foreign to see Yeon like this.
"I was only 6 years old when my father went off to war. My mother was busy...and I had to take care of most household chores." Yeon pauses, and though $YeonThey gives you a smile, the uncomfortable pinch of $YeonTheir brows tell you that $YeonThey isn't quite revealing everything to you.
"That's about it. Nothing special." Yeon mumbles, slightly shifting away from you.
From the way that Yeon was smiling, you get the sense that $YeonThey don't want to talk about this any longer. You decide it might be best to drop the matter for now.
[[Next|Chapter2.2-14]]<<if $reaction is "sorry">>"I'm sorry for your loss." You say, looking towards your guard carefully.
"It's fine. They were good people but I never got to know them very well." Yeon says softly but $YeonTheir voice trembles everso slightly. "It happened when I was young. It doesn't affect me now."
Despite $YeonTheir words, you can see a bit of tears in $YeonTheir eyes, which Yeon quickly wipes away. But Yeon quickly pulls on a smile, and this time, you feel a bit better, seeing the genuine comfort in Yeon's steel grey eyes.<<elseif $reaction is "thank">>"Thank you for telling me." You say, looking towards your guard carefully. "It must've been hard to keep this all to yourself."
Yeon seems a bit surprised at your words. A smile is all $YeonThey can manage before $YeonTheir eyes blur with tears.
You simply sit next to $YeonThem as $YeonThey calm $YeonTheir feelings, hoping that your presence might provide $YeonThem the smallest bit of comfort.
"Thank you, $yourhigness." Yeon laughs, $YeonTheir voice ringing like the musical chime of jingle bells.
You've never heard $YeonThem laugh like that, and hearing such clear joyful sound from $YeonTheir lips makes your heart warm.<<elseif $reaction is "hug">>Yeon's tears start to flow as soon as you wrap your arms around $YeonThem. It was rather awkward, never having so intimately bonded with Yeon before, but seeing $YeonThem in such vulnerable mood, you feel your heart wrench for $YeonThem.
It takes a while for Yeon to calm down, but when you see $YeonTheir eyes again, so clear of doubts and rid of any pains, you feel as if you're flying, free and light within the depths of the steel grey of Yeon's eyes.
"Thank you, $yourhighness." Yeon smiles softly, tenderly taking your hand in $YeonTheir calloused ones. "I really appreciate it."
[[Next|Chapter2.2-14]]<<if $reaction is "shy">>“Yeah...very beautiful.” You say, staring at Yi Rang instead.
Yi Rang looks at you, sensing your rather distracted tone. Upon catching you staring at $YiRangThem, Yi Rang’s lips stretch into one of $YiRangTheir signature lopsided grins, and a playful glint dances in $YiRangTheir eyes.<<elseif $reaction is "bold">>“Not as much as you.” You grin, giving Yi Rang a sly look.
"Is that so?" Yi Rang chuckles, rather shakily, and though $YiRangThey continues to stare at the sky, you can see a bit of a red hue burning $YiRangTheir ears in the faint moonlight.<<elseif $reaction is "genuine">>“It is.” You hum as you look at the sky.
Yi rang smiles, glancing at you. <<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> continues to chatter as you both stare at the sky.<<elseif $reaction is "sarcastic">>“Well, it’s always like that.” You comment.
Yi rang takes $YiRangTheir eyes off the sky, directing $YiRangTheir attention to you with a slight glare.<<elseif $reaction is "stoic">>“I suppose.” You mumble.
Yi rang chuckles, and $YiRangThey falls silent, only letting out a small sigh, as if $YiRangThey expected your blunt response.<</if>>
<<if not $YiRangWound>><<else>>"Thanks for the pastries, by the way." You say. “Didn’t think you’d remember it.”
“It’s nothing.” Yi rang responds. <<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> glances at you with a dorky smile playing on $YiRangTheir lips. “Consider it a sort of…apology. For worrying you.”
<</if>>Yi Rang thinks for a while, a moment of rare silence. <<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> then turns to you.
“Remember when we’d used to stargaze back when you first arrived?” Yi Rang says, sitting up and perching upon $YiRangTheir elbows. “You were so unstable back then.”
Before you can even respond, Yi Rang resumes.
“I used to envy you sometimes...Well, before I knew that you were betrayed.” Yi Rang confesses. “I always wished I had a family, you know?”
<<link [[“Isn't Li Bai your grandfather?”|Stargazing with Yi Rang.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "grandfather">><</link>>
<<link [[“I thought you liked it here?”|Stargazing with Yi Rang.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "like">><</link>>
<<link [[“What do you mean?”|Stargazing with Yi Rang.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "what">><</link>><<if $reaction is "grandfather">>“Isn’t (mentor) your grandfather?”
“He adopted me. We’re not blood related.” Yi Rang says. Yi Rang grins, $YiRangTheir nose scrunching up in habit as $YiRangTheir lips stretch into a wide smile. “I thought you’d know by now. Isn’t it obvious? How can such attractive face come from the old man?”<<elseif $reaction is "like">>“I thought you liked it here?”
“I do…But I sometimes I wished I could’ve known my mother too.” Yi Rang sighs.<<elseif $reaction is "what">>“What do you mean?”
“The fact that you at least have seen your mother’s face. Hear her voice.” Yi Rang mumbles.<</if>>
Yi Rang goes silent for a while before abruptly sitting up and looking at you.
“I’m not from this nation. The one you had once ruled over.” Yi Rang says.
You look over at $YiRangThem. This was the first time $YiRangThey opened up to you, despite knowing you for more than a few years.
And for a short moment, Yi Rang’s defenses seems to have completely crumbled down. <<print ucfirst($YiRangTheir)>> eyes reflect the array of stars, but you can see a depth of wistfulness in $YiRangTheir usually bright sparkling eyes.
Perhaps the mood of the moment has compelled Yi Rang to open up to you, more than $YiRangThey usually does.
Whatever it was, you didn’t really want to break this frail moment of vulnerability and trust. So you stay quiet.
Yi Rang glances at you, as if gauging your reaction, almost searching for permission to continue.
<<link [[“What happened to your mother?”|Stargazing with Yi Rang.4]]>>
<<set $reaction to "words">><</link>>
<<link [[“Can you tell me?”|Stargazing with Yi Rang.4]]>>
<<set $reaction to "words">><</link>>
<<link [[Grab Yi Rang's hand|Stargazing with Yi Rang.4]]>>
<<set $reaction to "touch">><<set $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 3>><</link>><<if $reaction is "words">>Yi Rang is silent for a while, eyes searching the sky. You can see $YiRangTheir hesitance, but despite everything Yi Rang smiles at you.<<elseif $reaction is "touch">>Yi Rang stiffens slightly, but $YiRangThey relaxes. <<print ucfirst($YiRangTheir)>> eyes seem to glaze over, glistening with a layer of tears you only know to be foreign on Yi Rang’s face.
Sensing $YiRangTheir hesitance, you give $YiRangTheir hand a subtle squeeze, becoming increasingly aware of $YiRangTheir warmth in your hands.<</if>>
“My mother was a widow. My father died in war before I was even born...Or so, that's what the old man tells me.” Yi Rang starts. “I was born in the neighboring nation, but the year I was born, the nation was overcome with many monsters.”
<<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> talks as if weaving a story with broken threads, full of holes and missing pieces, and $YiRangTheir recollections of $YiRangTheir childhood- mother and birthplace- are entirely based on the words of someone else, blurry and mismatched.
“The nation broke out in hysteria due to the sudden occurrence of monsters, and many people were killed.” Yi Rang continues.
Despite talking about $YiRangTheir own childhood, many pieces appear ill-sorted, and you could tell Yi Rang was withholding some details.
You don’t push for more. If Yi Rang didn’t want to tell, you’d simply have to wait.
“My mother smuggled me over here, but then she died trying to protect me.” Yi Rang concludes. “The old man found me. Apparently, he knew my mother from before, and took me in by her request.”
There is a silence between you. You look towards Yi Rang, and (he/she) looks at you.
“Did I surprise you?” Yi Rang chuckles airily, appearing to have recovered $YiRangTheir usual cheeriness. “That I’m from your enemy nation?”
<<link [[“No, I'm just glad you told me.” ♡|Stargazing with Yi Rang.5]]>>
<<set $reaction to "romance">><<set $YiRangRomantic = $YiRangRomantic + 1; $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 5>><</link>>
<<link [[“I never expected that.”|Chapter2.2-14]]><<set $spiritual = $spiritual + 5>><</link>>
<<link [[“A little, I guess.”|Chapter2.2-14]]>><<set $spiritual = $spiritual + 5>><</link>>
<<link [[“I sort of expected it.”|Stargazing with Yi Rang.5]]>>
<<set $reaction to "expected">><</link>>
<<link [[“I don't care.”|Stargazing with Yi Rang.5]]>>
<<set $reaction to "care">><<set $YiRangPlatonic = $YiRangPlatonic + 3>><</link>><<if $reaction is "romance">>“I’m just glad you told me.” You say.
“What?”
“This means you feel comfortable around me right?” You say. “I couldn’t care less about your origin, I’m just happy you’re here with me.”
Yi Rang’s eyes widen. Yi Rang’s stiff body relaxes at your words, and $YiRangThey smiles.
“...You’re too good to me. You’re too good //for// me.” Yi Rang laughs.
You’ve seen many of Yi Rang’s smiles, but this smile appeared to glow the most. You think you see a glint of tears in $YiRangTheir eyes, but you feel a bit at ease, knowing that maybe tonight, Yi Rang could sleep well, having all those secrets off $YiRangTheir chest.<<elseif $reaction is "expected">>“I sort of expected it.” You say. “Your birthplace I mean.”
Yi Rang looks at you, perking $YiRangTheir eyebrows.
“How? I don’t think I’ve ever acted in anyway to prompt that thought.” Yi Rang says with a hum.
You glance up at Yi Rang’s hair, the blonde strands bristling softly in the cool night air. Yi Rang follows your gaze, and after a while bursts out into a laugh.
“There’s not many people with blonde hair in our nation, you know. You stick out like a sore thumb.” You point out.
“Oh, yeah.” Yi Rang laughs. “I tend to forget.”<<elseif $reaction is "care">>“I don’t care. I don’t care of your birth place. You’re my friend.” You say.
Yi Rang’s eyes widen.
“Besides, what they’ve done is before my time.” You add quickly.
Yi Rang smiles, laughing at your reassurance. <<print ucfirst($YiRangTheir)>> body has visibly relaxed, $YiRangTheir breathing more even and the trembling of $YiRangTheir fingers no longer present.
“Thanks, I really needed that.”<</if>>
<<link [[Next|Chapter2.2-14]]>>
<<set $spiritual = $spiritual + 5>><</link>>You've reached the current end of the demo.
Thank you for playing, hope you enjoyed! You can send feedback or keep up with progress on my tumblr.<<if $reaction is "yeon">>Yeon.
Your trustworthy, loyal guard who has always been there for you.
<<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> had been the one who so adamantly urged you to survive, protecting you throughout your rough childhood, guarding you during your reign, and even betraying $YeonTheir own nation for the sake of your safety.
Yeon was the one to catch you as you fell and stay by your side, all the while helping you piece yourself back together.
At the remembrance of Yeon's sacrifices, you feel...
<<link [[Loved ♡|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeonlove">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Grateful|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeongrateful">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Sorry|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeonsorry">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Scared|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeonscared">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Nothing|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeonnothing">><<set $heart = $heart - 5>><</link>><<elseif $reaction is "yirang">>Yi Rang.
Your friend of 5 years. Always so cheery and optimistic, yet so full of mysteries.
<<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> had been the one to ease the pain of your fall, always bringing you gifts, pranking you when you least expect it.
Though $YiRangThey never lets you within arms length of $YiRangTheir life, $YiRangThey had been the one friend you could rely on after all that has gone on. Perhaps, even your first and only friend you've ever had.
At the remembrance of Yi Rang's friendship, you feel...
<<link [[Loved ♡|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yiranglove">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Grateful|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yiranggrateful">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Curious|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yirangcurious">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Scared|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yirangscared">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Nothing|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yirangnothing">><<set $heart = $heart - 5>><</link>><<elseif $reaction is "dohyun">>Do Hyun.
<<if $DoHyunRomantic gte 2>>Your first love.<<elseif $DoHyunRomantic lte 1>>Your ex spouse.<</if>>
<<print ucfirst($DoHyunThey)>> had not been the best person you knew, but $DoHyunThey were certainly something.
<<print ucfirst($DoHyunThey)>> had been the one to notice your struggles and extended a hand. Whether that hand was a your highway to freedom or your one-way ticket to doom, you couldn't quite determine.
Still the bittersweet memories of $DoHyunTheir company rouses a complicated feeling within you.
Amidst those, the most prominent feels to be...
<<if $DoHyunRomantic gte 2>><<link [[Love ♡|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyunlove">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Regret ♡|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyunregret">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<</if>><<link [[Forgiveness|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyunforgiveness">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Hate|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyunhate">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Nothing|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyunnothing">><<set $heart = $heart - 5>><</link>><<elseif $reaction is "haram">>@@filter:blur(2.5px);Haram@@
The blurry mysterious figure of your memories.
There aren't much you recall about them. Most you can recall is the fact that it had been your childhood friend, if you can even call that relationship anything close to friendship.
Still, in all your recollections, though your memories may be blurry, your feelings towards the being had mostly been positive.
It gave you a feeling of safety and belonging, just by the thought of their eyes.
Now, unsure of where it even is, you feel...
<<link [[Loved ♡|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "haramlove">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Grateful|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "haramgrateful">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Curious|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "haramcurious">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Scared|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "haramscared">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Nothing|Meditate.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "haramnothing">><<set $heart = $heart - 5>><</link>><</if>><<if $reaction is "yeon">>Yeon.
Your trustworthy, loyal guard who has always been there for you.
<<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> had been the one who so adamantly urged you to survive, protecting you throughout your rough childhood, guarding you during your reign, and even betraying $YeonTheir own nation for the sake of your safety.
Yeon was the one to catch you as you fell and stay by your side, all the while helping you piece yourself back together.
At the remembrance of Yeon's sacrifices, you feel...
<<link [[Loved ♡|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeonlove">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Grateful|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeongrateful">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Sorry|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeonsorry">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Scared|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeonscared">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Nothing|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yeonnothing">><<set $heart = $heart - 5>><</link>><<elseif $reaction is "yirang">>Yi Rang.
Your friend of 5 years. Always so cheery and optimistic, yet so full of mysteries.
<<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> had been the one to ease the pain of your fall, always bringing you gifts, pranking you when you least expect it.
Though $YiRangThey never lets you within arms length of $YiRangTheir life, $YiRangThey had been the one friend you could rely on after all that has gone on. Perhaps, even your first and only friend you've ever had.
At the remembrance of Yi Rang's friendship, you feel...
<<link [[Loved ♡|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yiranglove">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Grateful|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yiranggrateful">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Curious|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yirangcurious">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Scared|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yirangscared">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Nothing|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "yirangnothing">><<set $heart = $heart - 5>><</link>><<elseif $reaction is "dohyun">>Do Hyun.
<<if $DoHyunRomantic gte 2>>Your first love.<<elseif $DoHyunRomantic lte 1>>Your ex spouse.<</if>>
<<print ucfirst($DoHyunThey)>> had not been the best person you knew, but $DoHyunThey were certainly something.
<<print ucfirst($DoHyunThey)>> had been the one to notice your struggles and extended a hand. Whether that hand was a your highway to freedom or your one-way ticket to doom, you couldn't quite determine.
Still the bittersweet memories of $DoHyunTheir company rouses a complicated feeling within you.
Amidst those, the most prominent feels to be...
<<if $DoHyunRomantic gte 2>><<link [[Love ♡|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyunlove">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Regret ♡|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyunregret">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<</if>><<link [[Forgiveness|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyunforgiveness">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Hate|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyunhate">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Nothing|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "dohyunnothing">><<set $heart = $heart - 5>><</link>><<elseif $reaction is "haram">>@@filter:blur(2.5px);Haram@@
The blurry mysterious figure of your memories.
There aren't much you recall about them. Most you can recall is the fact that it had been your childhood friend, if you can even call that relationship anything close to friendship.
Still, in all your recollections, though your memories may be blurry, your feelings towards the being had mostly been positive.
It gave you a feeling of safety and belonging, just by the thought of their eyes.
Now, unsure of where it even is, you feel...
<<link [[Loved ♡|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "haramlove">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Grateful|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "haramgrateful">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Curious|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "haramcurious">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Scared|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "haramscared">><<set $heart = $heart + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[Nothing|Meditate2.3]]>>
<<set $reaction to "haramnothing">><<set $heart = $heart - 5>><</link>><</if>><<if $reaction is "yeonlove">>The thought of Yeon's sacrifices for you makes you feel loved.
For someone to give up so much for you makes you feel wanted. The thought of someone actually caring for you affected you more than you can put into words.<<elseif $reaction is "yeongrateful">>The thought of Yeon's sacrifices for you makes you feel grateful.
It's not often that you can find such a loyal and respectful guard who would give up their life for you. The fact that Yeon was so willing to do that made you feel infinitely grateful of $YeonThem.<<elseif $reaction is "yeonsorry">>The thought of Yeon's sacrifices for you makes you feel sorry.
You weren't the best person to serve, for sure. You weren't of a high position even within your family, and worse, most people scorned you for your "curse."
You felt bad that Yeon would have to sacrifice so much for the sake of you when you could provide $YeonThem no more than even more problems.<<elseif $reaction is "yeonscared">>The thought of Yeon's sacrifices for you makes you feel scared.
You couldn't quite place what made you feel so scared. Perhaps it was the fact that you've become so dependent on someone, or it was the underlying paranoia you've fostered ever since being betrayed.
Whatever it was, you didn't like the feeling that bloomed in your chest.<<elseif $reaction is "yeonnothing">>The thought of Yeon's sacrifices for you makes you feel nothing.
It was supposed to be Yeon's job to protect you. You don't know what you're supposed to feel about Yeon doing $YeonTheir job dutifully; you honestly thought it was supposed to be a given thing.<</if>>\
<<if $reaction is "yiranglove">>The remembrance of Yi Rang's friendship makes you feel loved.
Yi Rang had always known how to cheer you up. <<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> have always cared so much about you, and you've found comfort within $YiRangTheir arms after the bitter pain of betrayal.
The emotion Yi Rang evoked from you felt almost overwhelming.<<elseif $reaction is "yiranggrateful">>The remembrance of Yi Rang's friendship makes you feel grateful.
<<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> had extended a hand out to you in your new, foreign environment, and $YiRangThey helped you adjust.
Just the little favors Yi Rang had done for you are more than you can count, and the remembrance of it always fills you with a sort of gratefulness.<<elseif $reaction is "yirangcurious">>The remembrance of Yi Rang's friendship makes you feel curious.
Despite always being so outgoing and expressive, Yi Rang had never been the type to so openly expose $YiRangThemself. Even behind $YiRangTheir seemingly meaningless smile, you've found on occasions that you knew close to nothing about $YiRangThem.<<elseif $reaction is "yirangscared">>The remembrance of Yi Rang's friendship makes you feel scared.
You've once been betrayed by someone you trusted.
You knew Yi Rang was not someone to take such lowly, backstabbing measures, but the lingering paranoia of the bitter experience renders you vulnerable to the underlying fear of another betrayal.<<elseif $reaction is "yirangnothing">><</if>>\
<<if $reaction is "dohyunlove">>The thought of your first love fills you with love.
Despite everything, the sweet memories you've had with Do Hyun seems to overpower all the other bitter ones. How $DoHyunThey had helped you, the smallest bit of considerations $DoHyunThey would show you, and $DoHyunTheir rare subtle smiles that always melted your heart.
And just like the first time you met, you find yourself falling in love all over again.<<elseif $reaction is "dohyunregret">>The thought of your first love fills you with regret.
You loved Do Hyun. You believed $DoHyunThey loved you too. Yet, in the end, you were the only one so miserable, and $DoHyunThey were back in the palace, probably living $DoHyunTheir best life.
You couldn't tell whether you still loved $DoHyunThem or not, but you knew for sure that you regretted ever falling in love with $DoHyunThem.<<elseif $reaction is "dohyunforgiveness">>The thought of Do Hyun fills you with forgiveness.
The betrayal had hurt. But based on your memories with Do Hyun, you want to believe that $DoHyunThey had a reason for $DoHyunTheir betrayal.
And besides, it happened five years ago, and you no longer wanted to grasp onto any lingering emotions regarding an event from long ago.<<elseif $reaction is "dohyunhate">>The thought of Do Hyun fills you with hate.
You had trusted $DoHyunThem. Even if you didn't love Do Hyun, you had a deal and you certainly believed that $DoHyunThey would keep that deal.
But here you were, betrayed, and you vowed that you will never fall for $DoHyunTheir deceitful tricks again.<<elseif $reaction is "dohyunnothing">>The thought of Do Hyun fills you with nothing.
You no longer felt any emotion when thinking of $DoHyunThem.
It no longer mattered to you anymore, what happened of $DoHyunThem. And you decided it would not benefit you to so easily be swayed by emotions regarding someone that doesn't even care about you.<</if>>\
<<if $reaction is "haramlove">>The thought of the mysterious entity fills you with love.
You don't remember much of them, nor have you interacted with them enough. But they had been the rock you had leaned on during your most miserable times.
You can't help but realize that your heart had been yearning to meet them again.<<elseif $reaction is "haramgrateful">>The thought of the mysterious entity fills you with gratefulness.
They had always seemed to linger around you. Not harming you, but rather protecting you from whatever unknown threats you had.
And the memories of their warm limb holding you when you cried fills you with a sense of gratefulness.<<elseif $reaction is "haram curious">>The thought of the mysterious entity fills you with curiosity.
You never got to know much of them. You never even had the change to properly see the mysterious being. They never once spoke to you, and the vast sea of facts that you have yet to explore about them fills you with a sense of curiosity.<<elseif $reaction is "haramscared">>The thought of the mysterious entity fills you with fear.
You haven't feared the being when you were younger, but thinking back on it now, you realize just how dangerous of a being the mysterious entity is.
And with the pressure of the mission looming over your shoulders, you feel even more fearful of a possible encounter with such entity.<<elseif $reaction is "haramnothing">>The thought of the mysterious entity fills you with nothing.
You might have shared some memories, but all those memories have been too foggy to move your emotions. You doubt that you would ever see it again, so you push any emotion you may have harbored away from your mind.<</if>>
After taking a moment to collect your thoughts, sort out your emotions, and filter through your memories, you begin to pull your mind back to the present.
Before you even know it, an hour has passed, and you find that the energy collected in your core increased by a decent amount.
<<link [[Next|Chapter2.2-13]]>>
<<set $spiritual = $spiritual + 7>><</link>><<if $reaction is "yeonlove">>The thought of Yeon's sacrifices for you makes you feel loved.
For someone to give up so much for you makes you feel wanted. The thought of someone actually caring for you affected you more than you can put into words.<<elseif $reaction is "yeongrateful">>The thought of Yeon's sacrifices for you makes you feel grateful.
It's not often that you can find such a loyal and respectful guard who would give up their life for you. The fact that Yeon was so willing to do that made you feel infinitely grateful of $YeonThem.<<elseif $reaction is "yeonsorry">>The thought of Yeon's sacrifices for you makes you feel sorry.
You weren't the best person to serve, for sure. You weren't of a high position even within your family, and worse, most people scorned you for your "curse."
You felt bad that Yeon would have to sacrifice so much for the sake of you when you could provide $YeonThem no more than even more problems.<<elseif $reaction is "yeonscared">>The thought of Yeon's sacrifices for you makes you feel scared.
You couldn't quite place what made you feel so scared. Perhaps it was the fact that you've become so dependent on someone, or it was the underlying paranoia you've fostered ever since being betrayed.
Whatever it was, you didn't like the feeling that bloomed in your chest.<<elseif $reaction is "yeonnothing">>The thought of Yeon's sacrifices for you makes you feel nothing.
It was supposed to be Yeon's job to protect you. You don't know what you're supposed to feel about Yeon doing $YeonTheir job dutifully; you honestly thought it was supposed to be a given thing.<</if>>\
<<if $reaction is "yiranglove">>The remembrance of Yi Rang's friendship makes you feel loved.
Yi Rang had always known how to cheer you up. <<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> have always cared so much about you, and you've found comfort within $YiRangTheir arms after the bitter pain of betrayal.
The emotion Yi Rang evoked from you felt almost overwhelming.<<elseif $reaction is "yiranggrateful">>The remembrance of Yi Rang's friendship makes you feel grateful.
<<print ucfirst($YiRangThey)>> had extended a hand out to you in your new, foreign environment, and $YiRangThey helped you adjust.
Just the little favors Yi Rang had done for you are more than you can count, and the remembrance of it always fills you with a sort of gratefulness.<<elseif $reaction is "yirangcurious">>The remembrance of Yi Rang's friendship makes you feel curious.
Despite always being so outgoing and expressive, Yi Rang had never been the type to so openly expose $YiRangThemself. Even behind $YiRangTheir seemingly meaningless smile, you've found on occasions that you knew close to nothing about $YiRangThem.<<elseif $reaction is "yirangscared">>The remembrance of Yi Rang's friendship makes you feel scared.
You've once been betrayed by someone you trusted.
You knew Yi Rang was not someone to take such lowly, backstabbing measures, but the lingering paranoia of the bitter experience renders you vulnerable to the underlying fear of another betrayal.<<elseif $reaction is "yirangnothing">><</if>>\
<<if $reaction is "dohyunlove">>The thought of your first love fills you with love.
Despite everything, the sweet memories you've had with Do Hyun seems to overpower all the other bitter ones. How $DoHyunThey had helped you, the smallest bit of considerations $DoHyunThey would show you, and $DoHyunTheir rare subtle smiles that always melted your heart.
And just like the first time you met, you find yourself falling in love all over again.<<elseif $reaction is "dohyunregret">>The thought of your first love fills you with regret.
You loved Do Hyun. You believed $DoHyunThey loved you too. Yet, in the end, you were the only one so miserable, and $DoHyunThey were back in the palace, probably living $DoHyunTheir best life.
You couldn't tell whether you still loved $DoHyunThem or not, but you knew for sure that you regretted ever falling in love with $DoHyunThem.<<elseif $reaction is "dohyunforgiveness">>The thought of Do Hyun fills you with forgiveness.
The betrayal had hurt. But based on your memories with Do Hyun, you want to believe that $DoHyunThey had a reason for $DoHyunTheir betrayal.
And besides, it happened five years ago, and you no longer wanted to grasp onto any lingering emotions regarding an event from long ago.<<elseif $reaction is "dohyunhate">>The thought of Do Hyun fills you with hate.
You had trusted $DoHyunThem. Even if you didn't love Do Hyun, you had a deal and you certainly believed that $DoHyunThey would keep that deal.
But here you were, betrayed, and you vowed that you will never fall for $DoHyunTheir deceitful tricks again.<<elseif $reaction is "dohyunnothing">>The thought of Do Hyun fills you with nothing.
You no longer felt any emotion when thinking of $DoHyunThem.
It no longer mattered to you anymore, what happened of $DoHyunThem. And you decided it would not benefit you to so easily be swayed by emotions regarding someone that doesn't even care about you.<</if>>\
<<if $reaction is "haramlove">>The thought of the mysterious entity fills you with love.
You don't remember much of them, nor have you interacted with them enough. But they had been the rock you had leaned on during your most miserable times.
You can't help but realize that your heart had been yearning to meet them again.<<elseif $reaction is "haramgrateful">>The thought of the mysterious entity fills you with gratefulness.
They had always seemed to linger around you. Not harming you, but rather protecting you from whatever unknown threats you had.
And the memories of their warm limb holding you when you cried fills you with a sense of gratefulness.<<elseif $reaction is "haram curious">>The thought of the mysterious entity fills you with curiosity.
You never got to know much of them. You never even had the change to properly see the mysterious being. They never once spoke to you, and the vast sea of facts that you have yet to explore about them fills you with a sense of curiosity.<<elseif $reaction is "haramscared">>The thought of the mysterious entity fills you with fear.
You haven't feared the being when you were younger, but thinking back on it now, you realize just how dangerous of a being the mysterious entity is.
And with the pressure of the mission looming over your shoulders, you feel even more fearful of a possible encounter with such entity.<<elseif $reaction is "haramnothing">>The thought of the mysterious entity fills you with nothing.
You might have shared some memories, but all those memories have been too foggy to move your emotions. You doubt that you would ever see it again, so you push any emotion you may have harbored away from your mind.<</if>>
After taking a moment to collect your thoughts, sort out your emotions, and filter through your memories, you begin to pull your mind back to the present.
Before you even know it, an hour has passed, and you find that the energy collected in your core increased by a decent amount.
<<link [[Next|Chapter2.2-14]]>>
<<set $spiritual = $spiritual + 7>><</link>><<if $reaction is "skilled">>“Of course! I’ve beaten you before.” You say tauntingly.
You were pretty adept at physical combat yourself, rivaling one of the highly trained knights you’ve met back in your mentor’s abode, and although Yeon had majority of the victories, you are determined to shorten the gap between you two.
“What use am I if my own master is better at combat than I am?” Yeon chuckles softly.
“You wish I was weaker than you?” You tease.
Yeon’s eyes widen, and you can see panic flashing through $YeonTheir gray eyes. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> quickly averts $YeonTheir gaze, looking instead at the hilt of $YeonTheir sword.
“T-That’s not it...I just want to be of use to you.” Yeon says awkwardly, a hint of a blush dusting $YeonTheir ears.
“You’re of plenty of use to me.”
Yeon looks back at you. Yeon’s eyes widen at your statement, and you can see $YeonTheir blush darken for a while. Yeon quickly regains $YeonTheir composure though, and when $YeonThey looks at you again, $YeonTheir expression is far more relaxed and tender than before.
“I won’t go easy on you just because you said that.” Yeon says, a playful tone in $YeonTheir voice. <<print ucfirst($YeonTheir)>> fingers wrap around the hilt of $YeonTheir sword, swiftly unsheathing it.
The sword glimmers in the setting sun, and you watch as Yeon takes a proper fighting stance.
“I don’t expect you to.”<<elseif $reaction is "intermediate">>“Yes, I’ll beat you this time.” You state.
You were about average in physical combat, harboring the skills that most knights your age would have. But you have yet to beat Yeon in a sparring match.
“I’ll be looking forward to it.” Yeon smiles. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> unsheathes $YeonTheir sword. “I’ll surrender the first move.”
“Don’t underestimate me. I’ve grown since the last time we sparred, you know?”
Yeon laughs. <<print ucfirst($YeonTheir)>> eyes sport a rare playful look, and you can see the slightest quirk of $YeonTheir lips.
“Is that so? I guess we’ll just have to see if your words hold truth.”<<elseif $reaction is "beginner">>“Not really, but I do need training.” You shrug.
You weren’t best at physical combat, and your mentor often chastised you for ignoring your physical well-being.
“That is true...I worry that your lack of physical finesse will get to you one day.” Yeon says with a worried sigh.
“Are you saying that I’m weak?” You raise your brows at $YeonThem.
“...Are you not?” Yeon asks.
<<print ucfirst($YeonTheir)>> question doesn’t hold any sarcasm, only sincerity, and the concern in $YeonTheir eyes melt away any annoyance you may have harbored at $YeonTheir statement.
You only huff at $YeonTheir words. You couldn’t refute anything Yeon said. It was entirely true, and you hadn’t a single piece of evidence to support your case.
“Don’t go too easy on me now. How else will I learn?”<</if>>
[[Next|Sparring with Yeon.3]]You draw your <<cycle "$playerweapon" autoselect>>
<<option "sword">>
<<option "polearm">>
<<option "whip">>
<<option "talisman">>
<<option "staff">>
<<option "tome">><</cycle>> and ready your stance.
Yeon similarly assumes a stance across from you. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> waits for you to make the first move.
[[Next|Sparring with Yeon.4]]<<if $playerweapon is "sword">><<set $physical = $physical + 5>><<elseif $playerweapon is "polearm">><<set $physical = $physical + 5>><<elseif $playerweapon is "whip">><<set $physical = $physical + 5>><<elseif $playerweapon is "talisman">><<set $mental = $mental + 3; $spiritual = $spiritual + 3>><<elseif $playerweapon is "staff">><<set $mental = $mental + 3; $spiritual = $spiritual + 3>><<elseif $playerweapon is "tome">><<set $mental = $mental + 3; $spiritual = $spiritual + 3>><</if>>\
Yeon stands tall and focused, adorned in $YeonTheir casual robes, ready to face you.
With a swift motion, Yeon lunges forward, aiming to strike you with a powerful blow.
<<if $reaction is "skilled">>You effortlessly dodge the attack, swiftly countering the blows with a series of precise strikes. Yeon parries your blows with skill and agility, matching your every move.<<elseif $reaction is "intermediate">>You dodge the attack, countering some of Yeon's blows with a series of strikes. Yeon parries your blows with skill and agility, matching your every move.<<elseif $reaction is "beginner">>You clumsily dodge the attack, nearly tripping over your own feet as you do so. You manage to counter some of Yeon's blows with a series of your own strikes, but rarely do they land a precise blow. Yeon doesn't even have to parry your blows due to half of it missing the target.<</if>>
<<print ucfirst($YeonTheir)>> movements are fluid and graceful, as if $YeonThey were dancing with the wind. Each strike $YeonThey delivers is precise and calculated, aimed at exploiting any opening in your defense. Despite Yeon's agility, each of $YeonTheir blows are heavy and strong, enough to shake your balance.
As the sparring intensifies, the air crackles with your energy, and the sound of clashing weapons fills the air. Yeon's eyes gleam with determination, perhaps even amusement, $YeonTheir focus unyielding as $YeonThey anticipates your every move. Yeon seamlessly transitions from defense to offense, easily weaving between your strikes and launching $YeonTheir own in rapid succession.
The sparring soon becomes a dance, a symphony of strikes and parries, as you both push each other to the limits of your abilities.
Time seems to stand still as you engage in this dance, each strike and parry a testament to your skill and determination. The intensity of the battle is palpable, as the clash of steel and the sound of heavy breathing fill the air.
But in a rare moment in Yeon's lapse of judgment, or perhaps a pity move, you see an opening.
<<link [[You strike at the opening with your weapon.|Sparring with Yeon.5]]>>
<<set $physical = $physical + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[You use a bit of your magic to accelerate your movements.|Sparring with Yeon.5]]>>
<<set $spiritual = $spiritual + 3>><</link>>
<<link [[You kick up some dirt to disrupt Yeon's sight.|Sparring with Yeon.5]]>>
<<set $mental = $mental + 5>><</link>><<if $physical gte 36>>You manage to land your final blow, your weapon digging into $YeonTheir opening, relying purely on your physical finesse, catching Yeon off balance. Yeon goes stumbling back, but before falling down $YeonThey grabs your arm, pulling you down with $YeonThem.
With a soft look of what you can only describe as an almost parental pride, Yeon concedes defeat, acknowledging your skill.
"You've certainly grown since I've last seen you spar." Yeon compliments. "Maybe not entirely perfect, but it's progress."
Yeon throws you a towel and a water pouch as $YeonThey comment, "It's quite comforting to know that you can protect yourself."<<elseif $spiritual gte 55>>You manage to land your final blow, your weapon digging into $YeonTheir opening as you propel yourself with your magic, catching Yeon off balance. Yeon goes stumbling back, but before falling down $YeonThey grabs your arm, pulling you down with $YeonThem.
With a soft look of what you can only describe as an almost parental pride, Yeon concedes defeat, acknowledging your skill.
"You've certainly grown since I've last seen you spar." Yeon compliments. "Maybe not entirely perfect, but it's progress."
Yeon throws you a towel and a water pouch as $YeonThey comment, "It might be better if you could train to rely on your powers less."<<elseif $mental gte 45>>You manage to land your final blow, your weapon digging into $YeonTheir opening, thanks to your little trick, catching Yeon off balance. Yeon goes stumbling back, but before falling down $YeonThey grabs your arm, pulling you down with $YeonThem.
With a soft look of what you can only describe as an almost parental pride, Yeon concedes defeat, acknowledging your skill.
"You've certainly grown since I've last seen you spar." Yeon compliments. "Maybe not entirely perfect, but it's progress."
Yeon throws you a towel and a water pouch as $YeonThey comment, "At least I don't have to worry about you getting scammed somewhere."<<else>>Yeon easily dodges the strike, and closing the distance between you two, $YeonThey grab your hands, rendering you helpless.
<<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> grabs your weapon out of your hand, and after making sure you've completely surrendered, Yeon laughs as $YeonThey returns your weapon and sheathes $YeonTheir own.
"I believe we can work on some skills." Yeon mumbles as $YeonThey throws you a towel and water pouch.<</if>>
<<if $physical gte 36>>[[Next|Sparring with Yeon.Win]]<<elseif $spiritual gte 55>>[[Next|Sparring with Yeon.Win]]<<elseif $mental gte 45>>[[Next|Sparring with Yeon.Win]]<<else>>[[Next|Sparring with Yeon.Lose]]<</if>>After resting for a while, Yeon turns to look at you.
Even with all the sweat-drenched hair sticking onto $YeonTheir face, Yeon seemed, for some reason, fresh and lively, as if you guys hadn't sparred at all.
"So, you've won the bet, $yourhighness." Yeon starts. A soft smile adorns $YeonTheir lips. "What is it that you wish for me to do?"
<<link [[“Call me by my name.” ♡|Sparring with Yeon.Win2]]>>
<<set $YeonRomantic = $YeonRomantic + 1; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3>><<set $reaction to "romance">><<set $yourhighness to $playername>><</link>>
<<link [[“Drop the honorifics.”|Sparring with Yeon.Win2]]>>
<<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3>><<set $reaction to "honorifics">><<set $yourhighness to $playername>><</link>>
<<link [[“Tell me about yourself.”|Sparring with Yeon.Win2]]>>
<<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 5>><<set $reaction to "platonic">><</link>>
<<link [[“I don't really have anything right now.”|Sparring with Yeon.Win2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "neutral">><</link>>
<<link [[“Just forget it.”|Sparring with Yeon.Win2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "neutral">><</link>>After resting for a while, Yeon turns to look at you.
Even with all the sweat-drenched hair sticking onto $YeonTheir face, Yeon seemed, for some reason, fresh and lively, as if you guys hadn't sparred at all.
"So, it seems I won the bet, $yourhighness." Yeon starts. A soft smile adorns $YeonTheir lips. "Am I allowed to make a small wish as my reward?"
<<link [[“Anything for you.” ♡|Sparring with Yeon.Lose2]]>>
<<set $YeonRomantic = $YeonRomantic + 1; $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3>><<set $reaction to "romance">><</link>>
<<link [[“Go ahead.”|Sparring with Yeon.Lose2]]>>
<<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic + 3>><<set $reaction to "neutral">><</link>>
<<link [[“Am I allowed to take it back?”|Sparring with Yeon.Lose2]]>>
<<set $reaction to "neutral">><</link>>
<<link [[“No.”|Sparring with Yeon.Lose2]]>>
<<set $YeonPlatonic = $YeonPlatonic - 3>><<set $reaction to "no">><</link>><<if $reaction is "romance">>"Pardon?"
Yeon looks at you with wide eyes, and you can't help but see a puppy-like resemblance from the way $YeonThey was looking at you.
"Call me by my name." You repeat. "I want to hear you say my name."
Yeon laughs awkwardly, scratching at $YeonTheir neck.
"T-That is inappropriate, Your Highness." Yeon stammers, $YeonTheir face slowly blooming red.
"But I want you to say it. It's my wish." You press on, stepping towards Yeon as $YeonThey step back. "I won the bet, and you said you'll grant me my wish. This is my wish."
The two of you continue on with this little tug-of-war until Yeon finally backs up into a tree, leaving $YeonThem with no other place to go.
You stand in front of $YeonThem, looking at $YeonThem rather impatiently.
And as if sensing your increasing impatience, Yeon looks away once, and after a moment $YeonThey returns $YeonTheir gaze to you, and you can see the redness on $YeonTheir cheeks.
"I-I...<<print ucfirst($playername)>>." Yeon mutters quietly to the point you could barely hear it.
You give $YeonThem a pointed look, and Yeon's face burns even brighter. <<print ucfirst($YeonTheir)>> eyes are wide, akin to a frigthened puppy's, so wide and full of what you can only identify as embarrassment and, you dare say, love. As the seconds pass, you can even see the blush grow all the way down Yeon's neck and up $YeonTheir ears, and it would've been adorable if not hilarious seeing $YeonThem so flustered like this.
"<<print ucfirst($playername)>>!" Yeon says, louder this time.
Satisfied for now, you step back with a smile playing on your lips, and Yeon slumps back into the tree, hiding $YeonTheir blushing face with $YeonTheir wrist.
"S-Since you've got what you wanted, let's return to the camp, Your Hi-"
"<<print ucfirst($playername)>>." You interrupt, leaning closer to Yeon once again. "You'll call me <<print ucfirst($playername)>> from now on. Till forever."
"...Let's go, <<print ucfirst($playername)>>." Yeon sighs, another blush, a softer one, taking over $YeonTheir face.
Yeon pulls away disappointingly fast, but you refrain from reaching out to $YeonThem. You watch as Yeon collects $YeonTheir stuff and turn around to leave, but just as you expect $YeonThem to head back to the camp, Yeon looks back at you, waiting for you.
"Come on...<<print ucfirst($playername)>>." Yeon says hesitantly, still obviously flustered about the new conditions. "You didn't think I was going to leave without you, did you?"
"Coming!" At Yeon's words, you hurriedly catch up to $YeonThem.
And as the two of you approach the clearing, Yeon stops and looks at you again, leaning closer than ever and peering into your eyes.
"...<<print ucfirst($playername)>>, <<print ucfirst($playername)>>." Yeon tests your name out for a bit more, as if tasting the way it felt on $YeonTheir tongue. After a few more practices, $YeonThey looks at you, $YeonTheir ears still burning bright red. "I-I'll see you at dinner, <<print ucfirst($playername)>>."
And with that, Yeon leaves you alone, striding off towards the campfire.<<elseif $reaction is "honorifics">>"Pardon?" Yeon asks, eyes widening in bewilderment.
"You heard me. I want you to call me by my name from now on." You say.
Yeon seems to hesitate, but seeing your adamant expression and expectant eyes, $YeonThey sighs and relents.
"<<print ucfirst($playername)>>. Is that better?" Yeon says softly, slowly starting to pick up $YeonTheir belongings.
When you nod, a gentle smile overcomes Yeon's features.
"And till when is this condition valid?" Yeon asks as $YeonThey leads you back to the campsite.
"Forever." You reply.
Yeon pauses for a moment, but just as you two reach the clearing of the forest, Yeon bites down $YeonTheir words and simply nods.
"Alright, <<print ucfirst($playername)>>." Yeon smiles. "I'll see you at dinner."<<elseif $reaction is "platonic">>"There's not much to tell..." Yeon muses at your request.
"There must be something." You press on. "It doesn't have to be huge. Just stuff like everyday things, or something."
Yeon falls silent at your words, $YeonTheir brows pinching together in thought. A soft tune escapes $YeonThem as $YeonThey continue to think, and eventually, Yeon pulls out of $YeonTheir thoughts.
"...There really isn't anything to tell." Yeon mumbles, scratching $YeonTheir cheek as $YeonThey gives you an awkward smile.
Seeing your eyes though, Yeon musters up one final response. "If you must know..." Yeon starts as $YeonThey begin to guide you back towards the campsite. "I like $playereye colors."
<<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> muses as $YeonThey looks at you. Yeon peers into your eyes as $YeonThey says this, and a charming smile tugs on $YeonTheir lip corners.
Just as you two reach the clearing of the forest, Yeon halts.
"I always found it charming to me." Yeon whispers.
And after giving you a friendly bow, $YeonThey excuses $YeonThemself as $YeonThey wander off towards the campfire.<<elseif $reaction is "neutral">>Yeon raises a brow at your words.
"Are you sure, $yourhighness?" Yeon asks, $YeonTheir voice filled with what you assumed to be amusement. Or concern. Perhaps even both. You couldn't quite tell.
"Yes, but I'll let you know if I change my mind." You reply. "I just can't think of anything right now."
Yeon laughs.
"Alright, if you say so."
Yeon doesn't say anything more, nor does $YeonThey wait for you. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> only offers $YeonTheir signature charming smile before collecting $YeonTheir stuff and returning to camp.<</if>>
[[Next|Chapter2.2-13]]<<if $reaction is "romance">>Yeon looks at you. <<print ucfirst($YeonTheir)>> soft smile is gone, and in its place was a subtle frown, maybe even a sort of pout.
Under your watchful gaze, Yeon's face blooms into a soft shade of pink, and your knight averts $YeonTheir gaze, clearing $YeonTheir throat awkwardly as $YeonThey fishes for the right words to say.
When Yeon looks back at you, $YeonTheir calloused hands wrapping around yours, $YeonTheir eyes are full of concern and a sense of longing.
"Stay close by my side." Yeon mumbles softly. <<print ucfirst($YeonTheir)>> voice is almost inaudible.
After another moment of thoughtful pause, Yeon continues while looking into your eyes with an intense gaze you've never felt from $YeonThem.
"I fear that I one day, I might not be able to protect you." Yeon whispers, bringing your hands up to $YeonTheir lips. You can see $YeonTheir throat tremble as $YeonThey takes in a deep breath. "I fear that...I may lose you."
A part of you doubts whether Yeon meant any of $YeonTheir words in an intimate way, but the desperate, yearning look in Yeon's stormy grey eyes rid of any doubts you may have harbored.
Before Yeon can pull away, you give $YeonTheir hands a small squeeze.
Feeling the squeeze, Yeon's expression melts into something softer, and a beautiful smile of relief and, you dare say, love graces $YeonTheir features.
Yeon pulls away disappointingly fast, but you refrain from reaching out to $YeonThem. You watch as Yeon collects $YeonTheir stuff and turn around to leave, but just as you expect $YeonThem to head back to the camp, Yeon looks back at you, waiting for you.
"Come on, $yourhighness." Yeon laughs joyfully. "You didn't think I was going to leave without you, did you?"
"Coming!" At Yeon's words, you hurriedly catch up to $YeonThem.
And as the two of you approach the clearing, Yeon stops and looks at you again, leaning closer than ever and peering into your eyes.
"I'm your guard, $yourhighness." Yeon whispers.
"My loyalty...My heart belongs to you."
And with that, Yeon leaves you alone, striding off towards the campfire.<<elseif $reaction is "neutral">>Yeon chuckles, an affectionate gaze in $YeonTheir eyes.
<<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> sigh as $YeonThey turns away from you to pick up $YeonTheir belongings.
"Just, be careful." Yeon says. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> pauses to look at you. "That's all I ask. It's not too much, is it?"
Yeon doesn't seem to wait for your answer. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> only offers $YeonTheir signature charming smile before collecting $YeonTheir stuff and returning to camp.<<elseif $reaction is "no">>Yeon frowns, seemingly taken aback by your answer.
You couldn't quite tell whether $YeonThey was surprised or disappointed. In situations like this, $YeonThey had been quite good at masking $YeonTheir emotions. Perhaps, even better than Yi Rang or Do Hyun.
<<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> sigh as $YeonThey turns away from you to pick up $YeonTheir belongings.
"Just, be careful." Yeon says. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> pauses to look at you. "That's all I ask. It's not too much, is it?"
Yeon doesn't seem to wait for your answer. <<print ucfirst($YeonThey)>> only offers $YeonTheir signature charming smile before collecting $YeonTheir stuff and returning to camp.<</if>>
[[Next|Chapter2.2-13]]