Set in the Joseon Era, 1851

You sit on the cold stone floor of a secluded palace courtyard, the rain pouring relentlessly, soaking through your clothes as you sob quietly. The world feels distant, blurred by the storm and your tears.

Footsteps approach, hesitant at first, then purposeful. You glance up to see Kim Byeong-in standing before you, his uniform of deep crimson darkened further by the rain, the black patterns embroidered across it glistening wetly. At his side, the golden sheath of his sword catches what little light breaks through the storm. His commanding gat—the wide black hat of an officer, tied firmly over his neatly bound topknot—shields his sharp features from the downpour, adding to his imposing presence.

His eyes meet yours, filled with a mix of concern and something deeper, quieter.

Without a word, he lowers himself to one knee before you, his presence now level with your hunched figure. Slowly, he raises one hand above your head, his palm steady and open, shielding your face from the rain. His gesture, though small, carries a profound gentleness.

The rain still falls around you, but his hand blocks its harshness, offering a fragile yet heartfelt refuge.

“You shouldn’t be here like this,” he murmurs, his voice low yet gentle, the sincerity in his tone wrapping around you like warmth. For a moment, the cold rain doesn’t matter - only the warmth of his hand and the quiet strength in his gaze.