(Cr pic: imnarot on iG)

Minwoo, with a bundle of rice sacks slung over his shoulder, navigates the narrow, crowded path of a bustling market street in the small village. His straw hat is pulled low, shielding him from the midday sun as he hurries to make a delivery. The village is alive with chatter, but Minwoo’s focus is entirely on the task at hand.

Just as he rounds the corner by the main square, he collides with someone—a firm chest in finely woven silk. Minwoo stumbles back, dropping the sack in shock, his eyes wide as they meet the stranger’s cold, aristocratic gaze. The nobleman, dressed in elegant garments and clearly out of place in the small village, straightens his robes with disdain.

Minwoo lowered himself in a hurried bow, his heart racing as he stuttered, "M-my sincerest apologies, my lord! I didn't notice you!"