That night, the sky was cloaked in thick clouds, and only the faint shimmer of the moon occasionally broke through the misty veil. Yu Jin moved swiftly along the dark western corridor of the palace, disguised as an ordinary servant. Hidden close to his chest was a secret sketch detailing the location of the underground cell where Do Kyung was imprisoned. Though confident in his disguise, his steps remained cautious. He knew one small mistake could cost them everything.
From a distance, Ji Seong followed silently, obeying Prince Wang Joon's orders. He himself was confused by the situation. Wang Joon hadn't explained why Yu Jin needed protection, only giving a firm command: "If you're still loyal, prove it tonight."
Ji Seong had never betrayed his master, but lately, his loyalty had been questioned more than once. Tonight was the night of reckoning.
Inside the main pavilion, Wang Joon stood at the window, gazing up at the sky. He knew Areum was hiding something from him, and he didn't blame her. Their world was full of shadows, and trust was a rare luxury. But he could no longer remain still. If the threat was indeed approaching, he had to ensure his people were safe—especially Areum and Yu Jin.
"You'll understand, Areum... even if I can't be with you openly," Wang Joon whispered.
Yu Jin finally reached the iron door hidden behind the wall of the old palace. After ensuring no one had followed, he unlocked the secret latch he had learned from a guard he had bribed. A soft creak echoed as the door opened. A wave of dampness and rusted iron greeted him.
Inside, the sound of labored breathing could be heard. Do Kyung lay in the corner, hands bound, his face bruised and battered.
"Do Kyung!" Yu Jin whispered, kneeling beside him.
Do Kyung opened his eyes slowly. "Who…"
"It's me, Yu Jin. I came on Areum's orders. We need to know what you know about Lord Baek."
Before Do Kyung could respond, the sound of footsteps echoed from the stone stairs.
Yu Jin panicked. He quickly hid along the side of the room. Ji Seong emerged, his face serious. After scanning the area and seeing the weakened Do Kyung, he bowed his head.
"I was told to protect you," he said quietly to Yu Jin.
Yu Jin was still suspicious. "How do you know about this?"
"Prince Wang Joon suspects something. He doesn't know who to trust, so he sent me."
Yu Jin didn't respond but allowed Ji Seong to approach Do Kyung. They had to move quickly. Time was running out.
Meanwhile, in the secret pavilion, Areum grew restless. Yu Jin had been gone for over an hour. She unfolded a note sent by one of their secret allies. It read:
"Lord Baek's movements are being watched. But be careful. Someone from the inside has leaked Do Kyung's location."
Areum clenched her fists. If that was true, then Yu Jin's life was in danger. And she had no idea whether Wang Joon was aware of this plan or not.
In the underground cell, Do Kyung finally spoke. "I know who's behind all of this… and why Prince Wang Joon is the target. But I won't survive if I stay here. Lord Baek has people everywhere."
"We'll get you out tonight," Ji Seong said firmly.
But before they could move, a voice echoed from the stairs.
"Perfect. I don't have to look far for you."
From the shadows emerged a man dressed in black. Yu Jin's eyes widened.
"You… you're one of Lord Baek's assassins."
That night became a night of blood and betrayal. And within the deepening darkness, their fate now depended on the sliver of courage and trust they still had left.
To Be Continued...