Blinking confusingly at the person presented in front of you, your brain seemed to have yet come to terms at the sudden event. The person — and his crew was supposed to arrive in three days but was now standing in front of you, even so triumphantly?

Guessing that your expressions have made him laugh, you presumed that he was having a little too much fun despite his rude actions.

I mean who wouldn't be annoyed by an unexpected guest who came on short notice and appeared days before the initial expected date? Especially if that person acts as an envoy between the two nations, as well as his own business.

Regardless, despite the major annoyance that was ticking you off, you continued to wait for the commotion to go down.

With the newly arrived guest, the palace seemed to have been lit with a new fire. From the great halls to even the tightest crevices, everyone is curious of the person's purpose of returning, especially when they have such an intimate relationship with you.

Though, you would like to admit that 'intimate' was a little too exaggerated and over the top.

Anyways, as expected, after sensing your unusual yet eerie silence, people began to quiet down, knowing to not piss get on your nerves and piss you off.

After everyone has calmed down and put their attention on him, the Merchant formally greeted you, the ruler.

" Greetings to the Emperor/Empress of Corea."

His smooth yet experienced way of taking was unmistakingly one of the reasons why you're so intrigued with him. Everyone knows that merchants are those who make a living by haggling the best price of a product using their mouth and skill. The Merchant, in some ways resembles that stereotype, however, he is also much more.

The way that he presents himself is full of confidence, making people think of him as more of a businessman rather than a lowly and sly stealer of the streets. There is this elegant yet comforting feeling whenever the Merchant open his mouth to speak, thus gaining your interest and soon after, friendship.

" Merchant of the South," you looked down nochantly at his folded form, " it has been a while."

Gracefully brushing your hands, you motioned him to stand up.

Standing up proudly, you could tell how much the Merchant values his own self just by the confidence that is radiating off him.

Grinning at your greeting, he gracefully replied, " Indeed, your majesty. The months that I've spent here in the capital went by abnormally fast that when the final date arrived, I could no longer believe it myself."

Smirking at his flattery response, you had to make sure that he knows that you are willing to join the game. After all, it does take two to tango right?

" The feelings are mutual," you said, leaning against the throne to showcase your dominance, " Since you've arrived in such short notice, is there a particular reason that I had yet been aware of?"

Contradicting to you wanting to follow the flow, you knew that there were more important things to talk about now. Also, you guys both have plenty of time to tease and flirt with each other so there is no worries on that part there.

Instead cowering in fear at at your sudden harsh question, the Merchant only looked at you. You also may or may not have detected a small smirk that was imprinted on his face.

Cheeky minx, he must have known that I wouldn't be able to do anything to him.

— for many reasons of course.

Aside from his obvious confident — arrogant aura, the sight opposite of you was definitely a sight you wouldn't expect from anyone but the Merchant.

With his infamous hobby of collecting whatever he finds interesting, it was a given he would be flaunting his newest valuable assets to the entire world. This time, also, was definitely not an exception.

From the simplest accessories that were embedded into his hair, to the silk robe he adorned in, anyone could tell that they were all made from top-quality products — probably custom made for his build.

" Answering your majesty's question, the purpose of this visit is similar to the last," he started, " However, unlike last time, I am here to act as an envoy between the Ecenyth Nation and Corea."

Immediately after, the atmosphere became cold and tense. Your humble expression no longer being found and instead is replaced with a confused, then emotionless, and finally discontent.

Tilting your head slightly to look over at Jungkook, who also looked baffled himself at the given news. Glancing over to your attendant who also shook his head, you couldn't help but grind your teeth in irritation.

" Envoy, you say?" You gritted out, " Why did I not get informed of such matters?"

Not only did the Ecenyths disrespect you as the current Emperor/Empress and your entire nation by miscalculating the arrival times, but they also dared to send an envoy without you having any say in this? And to employ the Merchant into this position, taking advantage of your friendship with him?

How daring of them!

Before the Merchant can answer your question, a servant from behind raised up from his spot and answered in his stead.

" We apologized, your majesty. There must have been some complications during the process of delivering the message about sending over an envoy. I reassure you that we did indeed send over a message a few months ago."

Shooting the servant who dared to talk in front of you a glare,making the servant cowered in fear at the distaste he was getting from both you and his master.

They even have the guts to let a servant retort back to me.

Biting back a sarcastic comment you didn't want to let out to further sour the relationship between the two nations, you slammed your hand in frustration.

Flinching at the sudden noise, everyone tensed up at your precarious action knowing that you weren't a person who would act rashly. Meaning that you must have been terribly offended that you have let your emotions win the best of you.

You must admit that connecting the two nations is what you originally wanted but why do they have to resort to this kind of method? You painfully wanted to ask but refrained, and swiftly waved your hand, dispersing the previous tense air.

It wouldn't benefit either side if I were to act up now, especially if we were the ones asking for this alliance.

" Forget it, it's no use to question a bystander. General Kim, go and investigate."

With just a mention of his name, General Kim stepped up from his spot and accepted your command.

Nodding slightly at his gesture, you set your attention back to the Merchant.

" Since the problem is under way, don't you think we have to celebrate successfully connecting the two nations, M— no I should say Envoy of Ecenyth?"

Noticing how the Merchant seems to wince slightly at his new title coming out of your mouth, he, nonetheless, enthusiastically nodded his head in agreement.

" Of course, your majesty. A luxurious banquet would greatly please the imperial family."

" I imagine so," pretending to take his comment in consideration, you innocently asked, " Say, Envoy of Ecenyth, what do you think will be appropriate for this upcoming memorable day?"

Catching on to what you were doing, Jungkook couldn't help but shook his head, knowing what you were up to. However, he couldn't help but feel a sudden itch in his chest, particularly near his heart.

After the initial scaring last night, Jungkook did indeed become more suspicious of your actual identity. Despite his ever-lasting curious mind wanting to know everything, what worried him more was you disappearing out of thin air. To top it off, you didn't even bother to tell him of you leaving the palace.

He gets it that you're mysterious, but as your bodyguard, he more than thinks that he should at least be informed of your departure. How would he be able to cope at the various possibilities of you getting hurt because of him not being present? He knows that you're strong but having him there decreases the chance of you getting injured.

As he continues to hear the witty exchanges between you and the Merchant, Jungkook's heart clenches uncomfortably. Unconsciously placing his hand on his chest, rubbing it hurriedly, Jungkook desperately wanted to get rid of such an uncomfortable feeling.

Sweat began to accumulate on his forehead when he thought of the possibility of him getting ill. However, he was snapped out of his chain of thought with the mentioned of his name.

" Good, good. I like your idea," you complimented, " Come to my private quarters tomorrow night. We will talk more about it there. Jungkook will be escorting you there when I deemed appropriate."

While Jungkook seemed flustered by your order, the Merchant was happily nodding his head in agreement.

Similar to Jungkook's reaction, the audience that were previously watching your interaction in curiosity, was bewildered by your sudden invitation but decided to be quiet and not question you.

" I shall follow your majesty's plan."

You nodded, waving your hand to dismiss the envoy.

After they have left, you continue the audience like any other day. Before you even know it, piles of scrolls were crowding up the trays.

Sighing, you definitely couldn't wait to start working on this new accumulated pile. However, before starting to dig through this pile, you better take a break and exercise.

☁️ ☁️ ☁️ ☁️ ☁️ ☁️ ☁️

Standing amidst the training ground, you stared at your opponent in silence, your right hand gripping a practice sword, ready to start attacking.

About 15 meters to your right, an eunuch was standing there, waiting for the both of you to go to your rightful place. After confirming that you were there, he shouted out a command, officially starting your duel.

Not waiting for him to react, you knew that you would have to initiate today's fight since you have just gained a new weakness; your injured arm being of no use and even creating an opening for the opponent to aim for.

Thankfully, with all the servants present, Jungkook inevitably has to be more polite and gentler when going against you since harming you can be seen as treason; and just with his identity, treason isn't something unexpected.

Darting towards him in swift movements, you quickly close the gap between the two of you. Swinging your blade, clashing against his own, you both continue to attack each other.

Ducking down at a slash aimed at your chest, you swing your leg in a circle, successfully bringing Jungkook to the ground. However to your dismay, Jungkook took the opportunity and brought you down with him.

Toppling on top of Jungkook, you snatched his weapon out of his grasp, Jungkook doing the same with yours, the both of you throwing your guys' weapon in opposite directions. You both smile at each other, surprised at how synchronized you both are.

Quickly applying pressure to his shoulders to hold him down, you offered him a sly smile.

" You're distracted today."

Eyes widening like a deer caught in headlights, Jungkook stared at you in disbelief. However, instead of normally finding it cute, you felt annoyance coursing through your veins.

Leaning down towards his right ear, you whispered, " Didn't I say that when we are outside, don't show any unneeded emotions?"

Feeling the warm air tickle his skin, Jungkook couldn't help but shuddered at the humidity. Feeling his face heating up at your close proximity, a flustered cloud began to corrupt his currently sobered mind.

Unconsciously licking his lips, he looked into your eyes, completely ignoring your question. You, however, were too far into your head to even noticed the gaze he was giving you.

" Hmm? Not answering me now?"

Unconsciously tugging his lips down forming a pout, he looked at you with such a deadly gaze making you unable to continue teasing him. Feeling the need to tease him melt away, you both were now left with an awkward air of silence, with you still pinning him down.

Hastily standing up, you pulled out your arm to offer him assistance. Grabbing your hand, Jungkook quickly stood up before distancing himself from you, still flustered from what had just happened.

Stealing glances at his direction, you acknowledged how similar he is to a tomato — as crimson as anyone can get, really. You were sure that you were on that route also, but you definitely won't let it affect you as much as Jungkook does.

Glancing over to one of the maids, you motioned them to come over. Grabbing one of the cloth that was prepared, you began to wipe your sweaty face with it before dismissing all the servants.

Finally, you can breathe normally with no potential spies.

" I think that's enough for today, Jungkook,' you said, turning around you, going to get both of yours and his swords, " Go back and rest for today."

Shaking his head in deny, Jungkook ran up to you, " Your majesty, who would prote—"

Despite his obvious resistance, you didn't look over to his direction and instead walk over to the cabin nearby, " Not you of course."

" But your majesty, I can continue t—"

Entering the cabin, you approached one of the nearby wooden shelves, carefully setting the swords to its original positions, " With you being this distracted, I would die before you would even be able to unsheathe your sword."

Turning around, you headed towards the small table while hearing all of Jungkook's excuses. Taking a seat facing opposite of him, you gestured for him to join you. Reluctantly, Jungkook took a seat in front of you. However, before he could even open his mouth to continue his speech, you were quick to start yours.

" So tell me, why are you so distracted today?"

Choosing to find interest in the swirls of the wooden table, Jungkook stayed silence at your questioning.

Seeing how quiet he suddenly became, you knew that something major must have happened if it would bother him this much.

" What happened? Did someone bully you again?"

Shaking his head, Jungkook diverted his attention to the various weapons displayed in the room.

" Then?"

Continuing to question him, you crossed your left leg over your right, leaning against the chair and patiently waited for his answer.

Soon enough, Jungkook became much more agitated, " If I tell you the reason, you promised to not yell at me?"

" Yell at you? Did you break something?"

" No, no, no, that's not what happened."

" Then what?"

Looking up to meet your eyes, he hesitantly answered, " It's about you disappearing yesterday's night."

" Hmm?... you were worried about me?"

Feeling his cheeks heat up at your comment, Jungkook wanted to dig up a whole and hide there forever. Letting out a nod as a response, you smiled amusingly at his answer.

" Don't worry. I won't kill myself," you mindlessly said.

At your statement, Jungkook immediately looked at you, stunned at what you just said.

" Kill yourself? That was a possibility? Did you get injured last night?"

" Of course not. How would I get injured if I was going out for a walk."

" A walk? Outside of the palace?"

" ... Is that a problem?"

Shaking his head, " Of course not, I wouldn't dare... but I would have preferred to go out with you."

Pretending to not hear what he said, you leaned closer, " I beg your pardon? Repeat that again."

Seeing him attempting to come up with coherent responses, you find yourself developing a need to pinch his cheeks.

Fidgeting with his fingers, he meekly rephrased his words, " If you may, the next time you go for an outing, especially during the night, please tell me. At least I would know where you are."

Satisfied with his reply, you reached over and gently patted his head soothingly, " I will try."

Even though your comment was not the best, it assured him that you will still put in the effort to tell him beforehand.

Deciding to end the conversation at that, you stood up and began to leave. Before fully stepping out of the shed, you stopped and waited for Jungkook.

Seeing that you were waiting for him, Jungkook swiftly stood up and approached you.

Staring at you, Jungkook couldn't help but be curious of your identity before entering the palace.

Who are you?

The walk back to your courtyard was silent yet comfortable. Though, that soon got cut short the moment you entered your study.

Your attendant, Chin-Hwa, who was busily organizing your workload but immediately came to your side the moment he sensed you coming in.

" Reporting to your majesty, the candidates for your future concubines have arrived."

Perking in interest at the newly given information, you gaze over at the scrolls already stacked on your desk. Heading over to the desk, you sat down on the chair and began to look through the pile of scrolls, knowing that Jungkook has already dismissed himself from your presence.

Mentally sighing at the tall pile in front of you, you begrudgingly took the top one and unfolded it. Untying the knot, you skillfully unroll the scroll and examine the portrait on it. Skimming through the little synopsis at the left corner, you were quick to roll it back and put it on the side, swiftly moving on to the next one.

" The ministers have gone through this?"

" Yes, your majesty. The ministers wanted the absolute best for the Empress/Emperor."

" Tch, more like to keep a collar around my neck," you muttered.

Continuing to go through the scrolls, one after another began to find themselves in the denied tray. Truthfully, at this point, you wouldn't really care who entered your harem. As a result, you were just mindlessly flipping through the scrolls for show.

About half way through the pile, you find yourself staring at a particular portrait. You can still identify the brush strokes that have left a warm beige color behind. High cheekbones that perfectly compliments his bright eyes, and cherry-liked lips to highlight his beautiful features.

For the first time in the entire evening, Chin-Hwa supervised the scroll's journey to the accepted tray, content that you have at least chosen one. This way, he, at least, doesn't have to hear the ministers complain about how the harem is so limited for a few weeks, better yet, a few months even.

The next candidate was chosen two-thirds of the way through. He was a son of a merchant that has recently entered high nobility after his debut. With both good looks and a wealthy background, he was sure a sight for the eyes.

Placing him to the still-empty tray, you tiredly rub your eyes, exhausted by today's events.

Aimlessly thrusting your arm out, you randomly picked out a scroll and threw it over to the tray, deciding to end the day.

" That's enough for today," you said, letting out a yawn.

Chin-Hwa, who was equally tired as you, sleepily nodded his head in agreement. Grabbing the trays, he began to compile them together.

" The ones I have chosen will enter the palace as concubines."

Chin-Hwa, who previously couldn't keep in a yawn, stopped himself in the process when he heard your words. Running around the table to your side, he gave you a looked to help him confirm what he had just heard.

Not wanting to answer him, you just nodded, getting ready to leave your study. Unfortunately, Chin-Hwa was quick to latch onto your clothes, desperately tugging you the opposite way.

" Your majesty, please reconsider. These candidates are sons of well known figures and nobles from foreign countries. They will act as the bridge to connect the two countries," he pleaded, " Making them concubines, with no official power will anger the countries."

Looking down at the pitiful figure, you let out a sigh and tried to get him to detangle his limbs with yours but to no avail. Combined with how exhausted you were, Chin-Hwa's stubbornness was beginning to get under your skin.

" Chin-Hwa, if you don't detach yourself from my leg, don't think I wil—"

Thankfully, knowing what you were suggesting, your attendant immediately jumped away from you, almost as if he was allergic to your presence.

" Do as I say," you ordered, " If any of the ministers say anything, direct them to me. I will speak with them personally if there is any problem."

Flinching at your sudden tone, Chin-Hwa knew to not get on your nerves and followed your orders. He hurriedly grabbed the scrolls, and headed out of the room to deliver them to the department who manages the harem.

Despite how constant the minister pesters him, he nonetheless prefers their annoying whines than your simple yet chilling stare.

Seeing him step out of the study, you felt as though a ton of bricks had been lifted off your chest, breathing becoming much easier than before. Bringing your hand to the top of your nose, you tiredly rubbed them hoping to rub away some of the strain.

Stepping out of the study, you proceeded to your private chambers, ready to get some rest. However, your gut was telling you that the moment the sun rises, chaos will ensue whether you like it or not.

☁️ ☁️ ☁️ ☁️ ☁️ ☁️ ☁️

Wincing at the rays of sunlight that have victoriously passed through your eyelids, you unconsciously raise your left arm to cover your eyes, leading to you letting out a silent groan. Immediately relaxing your arm, you let it drop to your side, doing the exact same move but with the only uninjured arm.

Tugging the blanket over your head, you let out a happy sigh, snuggling into the soft fabric comfortably.

Despite knowing that the sun is already on its way to the highest point, you continue to dismiss the idea and instead utilise this time to relax and stay in bed. Unfortunately, a knock had cut your time short with your blanket.

Letting out a curse, you groggily sat up, mindlessly yawning caused by your previous slumber. Mindfully stretching out your body, careful to not cause a strain to your injured arm, you looked over at the shadow glazing over the thin veils.

Leaning against the bed, you allowed the person to enter.

Gently pushing your doors open, Jungkook quickly entered, closing the doors after his entrance, eyes shaking in anxiousness.

Seeing his frantic state, you couldn't help but be intrigued at the upcoming news.

" What is it?"

" I apologize for interrupting your majesty in such an early time," Jungkook said, bowing down in greeting and apology, " However, there is currently a turmoil — commotion within the palace."

" For what reason?" You asked, despite you already having a feeling of knowing the reason.

Seeing how nonchalant you are, Jungkook gulped down a mouthful of air, and hesitantly answered, " ... Reporting to your majesty, the ministers as well as the harem appeared to have contradict opinions on admitt— expanding the harem."

Defeatedly sighing at your correct gut feeling, you no longer felt the want to relax in bed. Scooting over to the edge of the bed, you rise up to your feet before going over to the table, taking a seat facing a standing Jungkook. Pouring yourself a cup of tea to hydrate yourself while glancing over to the doors, imagining how chaotic it truly is behind those doors.

" What do they want to achieve by knocking on by door at this time of the day?"

" To my knowledge, many of the ministers have gathered for a personal audience with your majesty."

" Without notifying me beforehand?" you sarcastically said, " How desperate... What's the harem's response to this?"

" The harem has been silent about this matter but I guarantee you that none of the consorts are satisfied."

Looking down at your cup, seeing your image reflected on the surface, you smiled, " Satisfied? Is that really an appropriate word? Of course they wouldn't be happy with my decision. No sane person would want to share the same spouse, especially with how similar this relationship is to a life-contract."

Setting the cup down, you stood up and approached Jungkook, who only looked at you, stunned. Placing your right hand against his cheek, " You must be confused. Think of this as ... you applying what you have learned thus far. You might now understand what I'm doing, but when you piece these seemingly useless and reckless decisions together, I guarantee you that you will be surprised."

Retracting your hand, you chuckle at how flustered the boy looks. Turning around, you headed to the window before pushing the doors open, bathing in the warm sunlight.

" Sometimes, Jungkook, you have to sacrifice your personal feelings for a greater cause, a greater benefit," you explained, admiring how bright it is, " In these times, your personal feelings and emotions are what caused you to be vulnerable. Greedy — bad people feed off your vulnerability and benefit from your weakness."

Feeling him approach you, you momentarily stop your speech before continuing after sensing him stand a meter away from you.

" That's why, in order to prevent getting used as a shield or even control, you must hide that vulnerable side," turning around, you meet his confused gaze, "Better yet, destroy it even."

Seeing how distracted he has become, you quickly throw your arm out, unsheathing his sword, pressing it against his skin.

Not able to react in time, Jungkook could only stand there, completely paralyzed under your deadly stance.

" See this? I have just utilized your weakness and turned it into my killer move. If I really want you dead, your head would have been separated before you even bat an eyelash."

Continuing to press the blade against his skin, you applied more pressure until the skin began to break and blood ooze out. Withdrawing the sword, you wiped the blood with the towel nearby before putting it back to its case.

Bringing your hand up to hold his head in place, you examined the start change that you have inflicted on him.

" It's just a scratch. No need for a bandage," you said, " I've just shown you a very direct example. Most of the time, it won't be that obvious."

Jungkook nodded, bringing his hand up, rubbing his neck sheepishly.

" You don't have to understand what I mean instantly. Go back today, and think about what I just told you. Questions will be answered the next time we see each other."

At your words, Jungkook unconsciously tilted his head, " You won't be attending the audience today, your majesty?"

Walking back to your previous spot as you answered, " I won't be going. The more desperate they get, the easier they will make a major mistake..."

Grabbing a long ribbon, you began to tie up your hair, " You're dismissed."

Making a final bow, Jungkook quietly exited the door, bringing your words and orders with him. He definitely has to spend some extra time today going through your previous words to try and understand what you were hinting.

Meanwhile, you mentally thanked Jungkook for taking charge of dismissing all those people, not wanting any more distractions to interrupt your day.

Going over to your wardrobe, you began to dress up for the day.

Since you have canceled today's audience, you have adorn a more casual outfit.

Normally, you would have let the maid dress you up since that was the expected treatment of a monarch. However, with you being injured, you couldn't risk this information exiting your palace from an outsider's mouth.

You pride yourself in admitting only trusty people or allies, but you could never be too sure. What are the chances of them switching sides for a greater benefit?

After you finished your routine, you called the maids to begin serving breakfast. Soon enough, various dishes were brought in, quickly filling up the table. After dismissing the maids — to their dismay, you quietly ate your food in silence.

After the initial scares from the maid — terrified at the thought of you getting dressed on your own, you were more than glad to finally have some peace.

After breakfast, your day seemed to pass in a blur; with you changing schedules, you were quick to find yourself back in your study, once again going through the countless documents.

Chin-Hwa, who had quickly entered after your arrival, continued to stand by your side in case of you needing any assistance. He did try to mention the matter of the harem candidates multiple times, but was quickly shut down with you interrupting the conversation about another — more important subject.

You weren't in the mood to have someone lecture you about your harem, especially if you were bound to get told off by other people later on.

Before you knew it, you had finished going through the pile of various affairs with the accommodation of the sun reaching its highest point, signifying that it was time for a break.

Sipping on your tea, you ponder about the evening's events as you jot down a few ideas. Now that you have finished today's workload, you have the evening to yourself, without any work-related business to bother you. Instead of doing something productive, you ultimately decided to just go with the flow and see what the evening will present you with.

As if waiting for you to decide on that, a maid came into the study along with an unexpected announcement.

Bowing at your presence, the maid said, " Your majesty, there is a guest wanting to meet you."

Hearing that, you knew that this particular person wasn't an official since they wouldn't have the permission to even interact with Chin-Hwa with Jungkook guarding the gate. Meaning that this person must have some importance and have a close relationship with the servants.

" Who?"

" The Imperial Consort, your majesty."

Smiling at the title mentioned, you set down your brush.

Fate must really enjoy playing with me.