{Fanfic: In The Years Imja Was Gone} Chapter 2 and 3
In The Years Imja Was Gone
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Never behind his desk for longer than ten minutes, Choi Young sighed and continued to rest his head against his left hand. He wore comfortable every day clothes, having returned from the small holiday only the day before (very late at night) and wondered why he had to go through this. He’d told Imja he would be fine, that he would eat well and sleep well, but those were the last things he wanted to do when feeling like this. His hope was waning; his love hurting so back it stabbed his heart…
What were his last words to Eun Soo?
Had she even been real to begin with?
Outside he could hear the rustle of movement created by those three fools looking into the room, and sighing simply raised his head, eyes staring at the other direction they were. “I know you are there and if you don’t enter and excuse yourself I will punish you.”
The quick rustle, motion, murmuring and finally shouts of pain were heard and it made him frown and in amusement wait. The door opened and Dae Man entered, followed by the vice general and Deok Man.
“Vice General you…” And Choi Young turned away. “What were you three doing?”
“Sir, we…”
“We wanted to ask if you were alright, sir. But we turned out to be too scared of you.” The general attempted to get up, but the three of them cowered towards the door, making him smile, and sit down. “Sorry.” They voiced quickly, looking down. The general sighed again, and leaned his head away from them.
“Anything else to report?”
“No sir, all guards and units are running well.”
“Dismissed.”
“But sir…”
“Dismissed I said!” And Choi Young leaned against his left hand again, pondering away the reality of the High Doctor’s existence. As the men left, Choong-sik remained, eyes casted down. “Anything else to say, Vice General?”
“Sir, may I ask you a question?”
“Go ahead.”
“How can you stand it?” Asked the man, surprised. Choi Young’s eyes turned to him, lazily studying him.
“I don’t suffer much behind the desk, the chair is comfortable.”
“I meant the wait. Are you even sure she is returning?” That question on itself proved she’d been real. Choi Young straightened, hand lifting to invite the man to sit down; the man did so quickly, and the general set his arms over the desk. Then leaned forward, as if this conversation were to be secret.
“What else can I do Vice General? Do you know perhaps some secret way of finding her through the waves of time?”
“No, sir, I don’t.”
“Neither do I. For all I know this could be the craziest thing to ever happen to anyone at any time; but I know that all things will be well, if I wait patiently.” The Vice General said nothing for a moment, while some papers were pulled out of drawers, ink and thin brushes placed over the fine wood; Choong-sik wondered if the general would ever need something for this office they had been forced to construct, or if a window would benefit him more.
“But can your heart take it?”
“It has for a year, and a General’s heart is never of much consequence, It’s his sharp mind and fighting what really matters to any kingdom.”
“But sir…”
“If you are to make me ponder in these sort of subjects, don’t, I have much work to do and little time to do it. Remember we must leave for battle bgfore the month’s end.” His words were sharp, blunt even, making the vice general stand, albeit slowly.
“I am aware, sir…”
“Dismissed, Vice General.” And then silence fell between them, while the two men pondered away in their own worries. Choong-sik walked to the door but before leaving turned.
“Sir,” that got the man behind to finally lift his eyes. “I also want her to come back. She is a very special person to all of us.” The general nodded, and without words, agreed.
=
=
“But why must I learn this…?” Stuttered Dae Man, as his hand (“Already covered in ink, Dae Man, really?”) moved shakily over the paper. The General had set him into class; Chinese character, manners, speech, anything that would get the boy to grow into a proper man and probably just to get him off Choi Young’s back.
“Because it’s an order.” Said Lady Choi, who supervised the classes carefully, aware that even in the short time they were making great progress. The boy didn’t stutter as much, learned quick and was respectful. The Queen wondered if they would be able to marry him some day, and the thought only made the Lady laugh. “Careful, if the stroke is wrong it would mean something completely different… Didn’t I tell you to be careful!?” And a slap was delivered to the back of the boy’s head.
“I… I’m sorry!”
The door opened revealing the general, and the situation was studied. Choi Young neared the table where the boy worked and Dae Man lifted his head, smiled at the general and continued his work.
“How is he doing?”
“Although he is stupid, we are making slow progress.” Answered Lady Choi, making the tall general frown and then turn and walk away.
“And they ask me where I got it from…” He murmured to no one in particular, closing the door again. Lady Choi turned back to Dae Man.
“Is he still shutting himself in the office?”
“Sometimes, he doesn’t go near his room anymore, he likes to sleep with the men in the barracks.”
“That’s odd.”
“He said something about his bed smelling too sweet right now.” And understanding what the words meant Lady Choi shook her head.
“That fool…”
“So we set a room in the barracks, next to mine, for him.”
“He’s sleeping on the boards over the barracks?” She asked annoyed, but then gave it a thought and shook her head. “Doesn’t surprise me.” That punk could sleep wherever he pleased, moving or not, and have a good night’s sleep. He could sleep in mud and not mind. “And during the sieges and battles?”
“He doesn’t sleep much during those times, nor does he eat. But I keep him hydrated and bring him snacks.”
“Good boy.” The interrogation’s start had been subtle, and although there was nothing she could not find about, Lady Choi had been quite adamant on keeping up to date in Choi Young’s constant dealings. From battle to barracks the man was constantly monitored by her people, and his every step was recorded in her record of him. The lengths she went for that punk.
Beside if the Queen asked she would have something to give her.
“Does he speak anything, about her?”
“No, never.”
And the boy lifted his eyes, finding the woman staring at his writings, and frowning.
“I told you to watch the stroke didn’t I?”
Tired the boy simply slammed his forehead against the paper, not aware that the ink had not dried and it covered his face now.
=
=
The general joined them for lunch, what was on its own odd, and sat across the Vice General, beside Deok Man, who offered the general his untouched side dishes. Dae Man gave Choi Young his untouched bowl of rice and then moved to get another set, while the men tense ate.
“I wonder; should we go hunting?” He asked the Vice General, looking at the servings before them. Rice, veggies, noodles… “Is there no meat around here?”
“The supplies are two days late, and according to the information I got it’s because the carts are broken.” The General took a bite of the rice, and mixed in a bit of the veggies, tasting for its seasoning. Pleased he added more, looking down at his meal without minding the surprised soldiers who rarely got to see him eat.
“I want roasted meat,” It was the first time in over a year they had heard him talk about wanting something to eat, and Deok Man nodded at the Vice General, listening to the man. “And the pealed nuts I ate at the Suribang restaurant.” He tried another bite of the bowl and added more onions, frowning slightly. “Isn’t there any meat?”
“I guess we are going hunting.” Said the Vice General, smiling, making the men around him gather. “I’ll divide the men and have them hunt for the week.” Choi Young nodded, and continued to eat, while the men stood in a hurry to be selected for the hunting party. “Will you wait here for the bounty?”
“I’ll be at my office.” Answered Choi Young, not noticing his three usual companion’s stare, and continuing his meatless meal while waving at them goodbye. And sure enough five hours later he was at his office, one leg over the desk and chair leaned back to let him sleep peacefully, mouth slightly open and head thrown back.
“General! The Roasted Meat is ready!” Called someone from outside, making the man lift his head quickly and snort a snore, clearing his throath and listening ot the sound of soft laughter and music. The smell of grilled meat made his stomach rumble, thing that hadn’t happen in a while, and he stirred, fixing up and getting up without furniture or body falling to the ground. He stood and opened the door; to find a small dark haired woman in red and white standing outside his door, apparently about to knock on the thick wood. She wasn’t anyone he could remember, and frowning at her turned his head slightly to the left.
“Yes?”
“Are you Choi Young, General of the WooDalChi?” She asked, desperate, eyes pleading with his.
“Who is asking?”
“My name is Park Shin Yue, I am here so you can end my agony.” She said, taking hold of his hand, making his eyes widen.
Five minute later the general walked out of his office, quickly, the woman following and making the celebrating WooDalChi turn in surprise to watch the scene. “I’m sorry but I can do nothing for you.”
“But I was told you hold total control over all things WooDalChi, please. Please!” She begged, making the men watch in amazement, as their general neared the table covered with side dishes and with a bowl gathered some of the items; Dae Man delivered a big plate of roasted beef and place dit next to the General. The woman continued her insisting speech, while the General ignored her completely. “You hold the power to help me, why won’t you do so?”
“I am a general, a fighter, I don’t…” He sighed, and took a bite of the meat.
“I only want to marry your Vice General!” Half the table, including the General started to cough; surprised to the point of choking on their meal.
“What’s with this girl!”
“Is she nuts?”
“Where’s the Vice General!?” Barked Choi Young, angrily, turning to Dae Man and the others, making them shake their heads.
“He won’t come here if I’m around!” Said the woman, falling to her knees and crying.
“Listen, lady; this are the camping grounds of the WooDalChi not the house of a matchmaker, you should be leaving.”
“Then accept me as WooDalChi!” She begged, as from the back the Vice General finally made his appearance; eyes widening when they settled over the lady. The general made the other’s fall silent and sat back down, his eyes looking at the Vice General as he leaned, placing a large palm over the woman’s shoulder.
“Only one woman has been allowed to be WooDalChi, and it was because of extreme measure. I cannot help you, but I am sure that if you show your true heart to the Vice General he will understand it.” The woman listened ot him quiet, sniffling once he was done; Choi Young turned, and smiled at the Vice General, making her turn. The General asked for more meat, and rice and side dishes, while the woman stood and hurried to plea with the man. It took a while but they were walking together and quietly down the path that lead the direction she had come from. “Dae Man bring something to drink; I think we are celebrating an engagement before the night is out.
=
=
A month later they were holding a wedding celebration, while the WooDalChi were merry and dancing about the place with the joy of their Vice General now a married man; Choi Young sat at the head of the far table, lost in his own thoughts. There was a small cup filled with the celebratory wine, the music the talk and laughter, and the exquisite plates of food…
His eyes lifted and from across the room Lady Choi found him, her lips could not lift in a smile so they just pressed together, and she gave a quiet nod. Choi Young blinked, tears gracing his eyes, but unwilling to ruin the festivities, simply stood and walked quietly out the back door.
In The Years Imja Was Gone
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If there was something more disappointing that returning empty handed for the third year in a road, it was to return injured, wet, cold, and empty handed. It was a disgrace for humanity, really.
Shedding his armor and the first layer of garments he sat inside the small office, while the rain continued to fall loudly outside; thunder and lightning were hitting the ground far away announcing the thunder storm over their heads would go through the night. He found his injury, and groaned slightly. It wasn’t as deep as he first thought, and he wouldn’t require much assistant, except the need for bandages and Dae Man had already gone fetch them. This year, the wait by the tree had been slow and painful; he’d gone alone, only to discover a nest of rats and forced to flush it out on his own… The army would have to patrol the cities more closely, and in larger numbers to avoid such things from happening. At least those three fools always followed his steps, and were able to help him at the very end; bringing reinforcements and his armor.
The battle had been long, the rain hard and when he finally sat down to wait nothing happened. No Eun Soo and no sun.
The sad story of his current life.
Dae Man returned and quickly handed him some wet cloths to wash the injury, and waited as the General did so. Then some disinfectant was applied, which would be called Jang Bin’s brand by the High Doctor, and finally the boy stitched the injury carefully, not surprised by the General’s stoic face as he did so.
“Who taught you this?”
“I watched the High Doctor operate in you; I learned.” No wonder the movements were so soft, making the general frown. “I thought it would be useful, and it had.” His left side, exactly across the already scarred skin of his ribs, were thankful that the stitching was done. “You should lay down sir. You lost a lot of blood.”
“I’m fine.” He whispered, leaning his head back. “You can go.”
“But…”
“I just need rest and here will do.” And he waved his hand at the boy, knowing his words were a lie but requiring the silence.
=
=
Lady Choi walked to the barracks, worried, and pulled at the first guard she could find.
“Where is the commanding General?”
“We are searching for him Madam.” And with a bow the man left. Frowning slightly the woman hurried deeper into the camp and found Deok Man standing, hand over his head and looking from side to side.
“You!” She called loudly, making him turn; his face was stricken with worry and fear, and upon setting eyes on her the young soldier sighed. “What happened?”
“WE returned this morning, we were all wet and some were injured, among them the general.” He informed quickly, as they walked to the barracks Choi Young had been sleeping for the last two years. “Dae Man helped the General with his injury and told us he was at his office last he saw him, but when we went to check if he’d eaten something he was gone.”
The woman opened the door to said office, and indeed she found the place empty. The armor and clothes were the only indicator the general had been there. The Vice General approached her, gave a tight bow and lifted. “Madam, we confirmed no one saw him leave the office, but given the fact that most of us were getting a shower after three weeks of service…”
“Someone should always be with him! I’ve told you this before!” What if he went and did something stupid, like that time? Scoffing she turned and started to walk towards the stairs, opening the door and finding several more guards, some on their cots (asleep) and others searching about. The man was not there. “Tell the maidens to search the gardens and pagodas, he likes a particular one there.”
“Yes madam.”
“Punk where are you?” She asked softly, as outside the rain became even thicker and lighting hit the grounds somewhere. “Find me Dae Man!”
“Yes!”
The gardens were searched through and through; the medical office and even the King’s quarters. Curious about the movement of the guards around the palace the King left his quarters and walked to the hallways that lead to the gardens, but Do Chi wouldn’t let him walk towards the gardens because of the rain, using the excuse that he could get sick. Soon as they continued to walk the outside hallways they found Lady Choi, who gave a bow.
“What is going on?” He asked quickly, “Why so many WooDalChi running around?”
“Majesty, it’s nothing to worry about.” She started, but the way the Vice General tensed and pursed his lips, turning to the woman, made the King frown.
“Tell me what’s wrong at this instant.” He whispered to the woman, making her huff silently.
“The WooDalChi General is missing.”
“What? And only now you tell me!” The silence that followed was deafening, Lady Choi didn’t dare look up. “Have you searched everywhere? The barracks and gardens, what about the medical office?”
“We have Majesty. We are worried for we can’t find the General nor his shadow sir.” The last time something like this had happened at least the High Doctor could be fetched and sent tos top the punk from doing something stupid; but now… Had it been because she was not found? In desperation…
“Have you searched his room?”
“He has not been using his room since…” Said the Vice General, but stopped, and hurried away.
=
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The door burst open, making Dae Man turn and look at the Vice General entering. He dropped the cloth he was holding and hurried to the man, begging him in silent gestures to be quiet. The Vice General looked down at the bed, where the general laid curled and covered, and turned to Dae Man; slapping the back of the boy’s head.
“Have you any idea how worried we’ve been?”
“He… he didn’t want me to call for anyone. He just wanted to rest.” Sputtered the boy, making the Vice General turn away. Lady Choi entered the room, and upon setting eyes on her nephew seemed to lose the weight of desperation, but not of worry. “I’ve been keeping him hydrated, like the High Doctor teach us. He has a very high fever.”
“Go find Deo Gi and have her bring a fever reducer.”
“Yes.” And the boy, receiving a second more painful slap to the back of his head, followed the order. Lady Choi brought a small stool, and sat next to the man, taking the cloth and wetting his lips.
“Young-ah? Young-ah, can you hear me?”
His eyes were closed, and turning slightly she could see his lips trembling, pale. “Imja? Imja?” The words made the woman look up at the Vice General, who was as astonished as she was. The man turned away, probably conflicted as she felt, but not as strong.
“Shh, Young-ah, shh… She’ll be back. Now drink some of this water.”
“Aunt, don’t… tell her… don’t tell her about this…. Don’t worry Imja…”
“I won’t, punk, now drink this.”
=
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When the Queen heard all of this from Lady Choi she turned away. Her delicate hand lifted, and covered her trembling lips, her eyes closed as a stray tear fell down her cheek and was quickly cleaned.
“How can a love last this long? Without measure or hope?”
“Even if he ran out of hope he’s holding tight onto faith.”
“Is there something I can do? Probably a meal or… or…” The Queen had such a big heart, full of love and care for those around her; especially those who had touched her life in every special way. Choi Young had not only brought a woman doctor to save her, he’d also brought her from captivity, soothed away her fears and obeyed her every command even when it meant going against himself. And besides she owed taking care of the General for the High Doctor.
“The Suribang has already sent a pig bot of rice soup, and there is enough medicine to last him a lifetime thanks to Deo Gi.”
“I would like to do something for him.” She said, cleaning the stray tears. She looked around, her eyes setting on a large pot outside. “Flowers!”
“I’m sorry?”
=
=
Delicious rice soup was delivered to his lips and lazily he ate; when his pledged aunt had said this was the best soup in all of Goryeo she’d meant it. Hungry as he was, this the third plate, he had to agree. Lady Choi had helped Choi Young to a sitting position, the injury had been checked and with his fever down there was very little to do but feed him and wait till his strength returned. He’d laughed when he heard the wild goose chase that had issued when he’d vanished; wondering why it had happened.
“You fool, with all that’s happening and you still want to…” She halted his feeding, and watched him smiled. His lips were yet to regain color, as was his face, and he could only smile and nod. “Ate some more.” She said, softly, offering the spoon. “Tomorrow morning I’ll make you some milk porridge, just like you like it.”
“Thank you aunt.” He whispered, and opened his mouth to take the food. “I wanted to be near her.” He said suddenly, looking at her. “I know I can’t so I came to the place she last was, and it felt like she was here, taking care of me.”
“That was Dae Man and myself.”
“Yes, doing things she teach you to do; keep me warm, hydrated and find the fever reducer when the fever doesn’t break.” He lowered his eyes and swallowed hard. “She was here too aunt.” She watched him in surprise, as if realization sank for both of them. He laughed, dryly, and hid away his eyes with the back of his forearm. “What is wrong with me?” He said leaning back; he’d been pushed to the limit and this was it. His pain was raw and although he was the general, this woman right here was the only consolation he had. “I see her everywhere, I see her in my dreams and nightmares, in the middle of the street and strolling in the night, I can smell and almost touch her but she’s a mirage, and I am the man dying of thirst in the middle of the desert.” He turned to the large pot set right under his window, a small token of the Queen’s love, filled to the bring with yellow mums. “Even in those flowers I see her.”
Lady Choi could say nothing. This was a devastated man in love.
“Aigoo,” She produced as a tear slid down both their cheeks. “What am I supposed to do with you now?”
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Never behind his desk for longer than ten minutes, Choi Young sighed and continued to rest his head against his left hand. He wore comfortable every day clothes, having returned from the small holiday only the day before (very late at night) and wondered why he had to go through this. He’d told Imja he would be fine, that he would eat well and sleep well, but those were the last things he wanted to do when feeling like this. His hope was waning; his love hurting so back it stabbed his heart…
What were his last words to Eun Soo?
Had she even been real to begin with?
Outside he could hear the rustle of movement created by those three fools looking into the room, and sighing simply raised his head, eyes staring at the other direction they were. “I know you are there and if you don’t enter and excuse yourself I will punish you.”
The quick rustle, motion, murmuring and finally shouts of pain were heard and it made him frown and in amusement wait. The door opened and Dae Man entered, followed by the vice general and Deok Man.
“Vice General you…” And Choi Young turned away. “What were you three doing?”
“Sir, we…”
“We wanted to ask if you were alright, sir. But we turned out to be too scared of you.” The general attempted to get up, but the three of them cowered towards the door, making him smile, and sit down. “Sorry.” They voiced quickly, looking down. The general sighed again, and leaned his head away from them.
“Anything else to report?”
“No sir, all guards and units are running well.”
“Dismissed.”
“But sir…”
“Dismissed I said!” And Choi Young leaned against his left hand again, pondering away the reality of the High Doctor’s existence. As the men left, Choong-sik remained, eyes casted down. “Anything else to say, Vice General?”
“Sir, may I ask you a question?”
“Go ahead.”
“How can you stand it?” Asked the man, surprised. Choi Young’s eyes turned to him, lazily studying him.
“I don’t suffer much behind the desk, the chair is comfortable.”
“I meant the wait. Are you even sure she is returning?” That question on itself proved she’d been real. Choi Young straightened, hand lifting to invite the man to sit down; the man did so quickly, and the general set his arms over the desk. Then leaned forward, as if this conversation were to be secret.
“What else can I do Vice General? Do you know perhaps some secret way of finding her through the waves of time?”
“No, sir, I don’t.”
“Neither do I. For all I know this could be the craziest thing to ever happen to anyone at any time; but I know that all things will be well, if I wait patiently.” The Vice General said nothing for a moment, while some papers were pulled out of drawers, ink and thin brushes placed over the fine wood; Choong-sik wondered if the general would ever need something for this office they had been forced to construct, or if a window would benefit him more.
“But can your heart take it?”
“It has for a year, and a General’s heart is never of much consequence, It’s his sharp mind and fighting what really matters to any kingdom.”
“But sir…”
“If you are to make me ponder in these sort of subjects, don’t, I have much work to do and little time to do it. Remember we must leave for battle bgfore the month’s end.” His words were sharp, blunt even, making the vice general stand, albeit slowly.
“I am aware, sir…”
“Dismissed, Vice General.” And then silence fell between them, while the two men pondered away in their own worries. Choong-sik walked to the door but before leaving turned.
“Sir,” that got the man behind to finally lift his eyes. “I also want her to come back. She is a very special person to all of us.” The general nodded, and without words, agreed.
=
=
“But why must I learn this…?” Stuttered Dae Man, as his hand (“Already covered in ink, Dae Man, really?”) moved shakily over the paper. The General had set him into class; Chinese character, manners, speech, anything that would get the boy to grow into a proper man and probably just to get him off Choi Young’s back.
“Because it’s an order.” Said Lady Choi, who supervised the classes carefully, aware that even in the short time they were making great progress. The boy didn’t stutter as much, learned quick and was respectful. The Queen wondered if they would be able to marry him some day, and the thought only made the Lady laugh. “Careful, if the stroke is wrong it would mean something completely different… Didn’t I tell you to be careful!?” And a slap was delivered to the back of the boy’s head.
“I… I’m sorry!”
The door opened revealing the general, and the situation was studied. Choi Young neared the table where the boy worked and Dae Man lifted his head, smiled at the general and continued his work.
“How is he doing?”
“Although he is stupid, we are making slow progress.” Answered Lady Choi, making the tall general frown and then turn and walk away.
“And they ask me where I got it from…” He murmured to no one in particular, closing the door again. Lady Choi turned back to Dae Man.
“Is he still shutting himself in the office?”
“Sometimes, he doesn’t go near his room anymore, he likes to sleep with the men in the barracks.”
“That’s odd.”
“He said something about his bed smelling too sweet right now.” And understanding what the words meant Lady Choi shook her head.
“That fool…”
“So we set a room in the barracks, next to mine, for him.”
“He’s sleeping on the boards over the barracks?” She asked annoyed, but then gave it a thought and shook her head. “Doesn’t surprise me.” That punk could sleep wherever he pleased, moving or not, and have a good night’s sleep. He could sleep in mud and not mind. “And during the sieges and battles?”
“He doesn’t sleep much during those times, nor does he eat. But I keep him hydrated and bring him snacks.”
“Good boy.” The interrogation’s start had been subtle, and although there was nothing she could not find about, Lady Choi had been quite adamant on keeping up to date in Choi Young’s constant dealings. From battle to barracks the man was constantly monitored by her people, and his every step was recorded in her record of him. The lengths she went for that punk.
Beside if the Queen asked she would have something to give her.
“Does he speak anything, about her?”
“No, never.”
And the boy lifted his eyes, finding the woman staring at his writings, and frowning.
“I told you to watch the stroke didn’t I?”
Tired the boy simply slammed his forehead against the paper, not aware that the ink had not dried and it covered his face now.
=
=
The general joined them for lunch, what was on its own odd, and sat across the Vice General, beside Deok Man, who offered the general his untouched side dishes. Dae Man gave Choi Young his untouched bowl of rice and then moved to get another set, while the men tense ate.
“I wonder; should we go hunting?” He asked the Vice General, looking at the servings before them. Rice, veggies, noodles… “Is there no meat around here?”
“The supplies are two days late, and according to the information I got it’s because the carts are broken.” The General took a bite of the rice, and mixed in a bit of the veggies, tasting for its seasoning. Pleased he added more, looking down at his meal without minding the surprised soldiers who rarely got to see him eat.
“I want roasted meat,” It was the first time in over a year they had heard him talk about wanting something to eat, and Deok Man nodded at the Vice General, listening to the man. “And the pealed nuts I ate at the Suribang restaurant.” He tried another bite of the bowl and added more onions, frowning slightly. “Isn’t there any meat?”
“I guess we are going hunting.” Said the Vice General, smiling, making the men around him gather. “I’ll divide the men and have them hunt for the week.” Choi Young nodded, and continued to eat, while the men stood in a hurry to be selected for the hunting party. “Will you wait here for the bounty?”
“I’ll be at my office.” Answered Choi Young, not noticing his three usual companion’s stare, and continuing his meatless meal while waving at them goodbye. And sure enough five hours later he was at his office, one leg over the desk and chair leaned back to let him sleep peacefully, mouth slightly open and head thrown back.
“General! The Roasted Meat is ready!” Called someone from outside, making the man lift his head quickly and snort a snore, clearing his throath and listening ot the sound of soft laughter and music. The smell of grilled meat made his stomach rumble, thing that hadn’t happen in a while, and he stirred, fixing up and getting up without furniture or body falling to the ground. He stood and opened the door; to find a small dark haired woman in red and white standing outside his door, apparently about to knock on the thick wood. She wasn’t anyone he could remember, and frowning at her turned his head slightly to the left.
“Yes?”
“Are you Choi Young, General of the WooDalChi?” She asked, desperate, eyes pleading with his.
“Who is asking?”
“My name is Park Shin Yue, I am here so you can end my agony.” She said, taking hold of his hand, making his eyes widen.
Five minute later the general walked out of his office, quickly, the woman following and making the celebrating WooDalChi turn in surprise to watch the scene. “I’m sorry but I can do nothing for you.”
“But I was told you hold total control over all things WooDalChi, please. Please!” She begged, making the men watch in amazement, as their general neared the table covered with side dishes and with a bowl gathered some of the items; Dae Man delivered a big plate of roasted beef and place dit next to the General. The woman continued her insisting speech, while the General ignored her completely. “You hold the power to help me, why won’t you do so?”
“I am a general, a fighter, I don’t…” He sighed, and took a bite of the meat.
“I only want to marry your Vice General!” Half the table, including the General started to cough; surprised to the point of choking on their meal.
“What’s with this girl!”
“Is she nuts?”
“Where’s the Vice General!?” Barked Choi Young, angrily, turning to Dae Man and the others, making them shake their heads.
“He won’t come here if I’m around!” Said the woman, falling to her knees and crying.
“Listen, lady; this are the camping grounds of the WooDalChi not the house of a matchmaker, you should be leaving.”
“Then accept me as WooDalChi!” She begged, as from the back the Vice General finally made his appearance; eyes widening when they settled over the lady. The general made the other’s fall silent and sat back down, his eyes looking at the Vice General as he leaned, placing a large palm over the woman’s shoulder.
“Only one woman has been allowed to be WooDalChi, and it was because of extreme measure. I cannot help you, but I am sure that if you show your true heart to the Vice General he will understand it.” The woman listened ot him quiet, sniffling once he was done; Choi Young turned, and smiled at the Vice General, making her turn. The General asked for more meat, and rice and side dishes, while the woman stood and hurried to plea with the man. It took a while but they were walking together and quietly down the path that lead the direction she had come from. “Dae Man bring something to drink; I think we are celebrating an engagement before the night is out.
=
=
A month later they were holding a wedding celebration, while the WooDalChi were merry and dancing about the place with the joy of their Vice General now a married man; Choi Young sat at the head of the far table, lost in his own thoughts. There was a small cup filled with the celebratory wine, the music the talk and laughter, and the exquisite plates of food…
His eyes lifted and from across the room Lady Choi found him, her lips could not lift in a smile so they just pressed together, and she gave a quiet nod. Choi Young blinked, tears gracing his eyes, but unwilling to ruin the festivities, simply stood and walked quietly out the back door.
In The Years Imja Was Gone
*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*
If there was something more disappointing that returning empty handed for the third year in a road, it was to return injured, wet, cold, and empty handed. It was a disgrace for humanity, really.
Shedding his armor and the first layer of garments he sat inside the small office, while the rain continued to fall loudly outside; thunder and lightning were hitting the ground far away announcing the thunder storm over their heads would go through the night. He found his injury, and groaned slightly. It wasn’t as deep as he first thought, and he wouldn’t require much assistant, except the need for bandages and Dae Man had already gone fetch them. This year, the wait by the tree had been slow and painful; he’d gone alone, only to discover a nest of rats and forced to flush it out on his own… The army would have to patrol the cities more closely, and in larger numbers to avoid such things from happening. At least those three fools always followed his steps, and were able to help him at the very end; bringing reinforcements and his armor.
The battle had been long, the rain hard and when he finally sat down to wait nothing happened. No Eun Soo and no sun.
The sad story of his current life.
Dae Man returned and quickly handed him some wet cloths to wash the injury, and waited as the General did so. Then some disinfectant was applied, which would be called Jang Bin’s brand by the High Doctor, and finally the boy stitched the injury carefully, not surprised by the General’s stoic face as he did so.
“Who taught you this?”
“I watched the High Doctor operate in you; I learned.” No wonder the movements were so soft, making the general frown. “I thought it would be useful, and it had.” His left side, exactly across the already scarred skin of his ribs, were thankful that the stitching was done. “You should lay down sir. You lost a lot of blood.”
“I’m fine.” He whispered, leaning his head back. “You can go.”
“But…”
“I just need rest and here will do.” And he waved his hand at the boy, knowing his words were a lie but requiring the silence.
=
=
Lady Choi walked to the barracks, worried, and pulled at the first guard she could find.
“Where is the commanding General?”
“We are searching for him Madam.” And with a bow the man left. Frowning slightly the woman hurried deeper into the camp and found Deok Man standing, hand over his head and looking from side to side.
“You!” She called loudly, making him turn; his face was stricken with worry and fear, and upon setting eyes on her the young soldier sighed. “What happened?”
“WE returned this morning, we were all wet and some were injured, among them the general.” He informed quickly, as they walked to the barracks Choi Young had been sleeping for the last two years. “Dae Man helped the General with his injury and told us he was at his office last he saw him, but when we went to check if he’d eaten something he was gone.”
The woman opened the door to said office, and indeed she found the place empty. The armor and clothes were the only indicator the general had been there. The Vice General approached her, gave a tight bow and lifted. “Madam, we confirmed no one saw him leave the office, but given the fact that most of us were getting a shower after three weeks of service…”
“Someone should always be with him! I’ve told you this before!” What if he went and did something stupid, like that time? Scoffing she turned and started to walk towards the stairs, opening the door and finding several more guards, some on their cots (asleep) and others searching about. The man was not there. “Tell the maidens to search the gardens and pagodas, he likes a particular one there.”
“Yes madam.”
“Punk where are you?” She asked softly, as outside the rain became even thicker and lighting hit the grounds somewhere. “Find me Dae Man!”
“Yes!”
The gardens were searched through and through; the medical office and even the King’s quarters. Curious about the movement of the guards around the palace the King left his quarters and walked to the hallways that lead to the gardens, but Do Chi wouldn’t let him walk towards the gardens because of the rain, using the excuse that he could get sick. Soon as they continued to walk the outside hallways they found Lady Choi, who gave a bow.
“What is going on?” He asked quickly, “Why so many WooDalChi running around?”
“Majesty, it’s nothing to worry about.” She started, but the way the Vice General tensed and pursed his lips, turning to the woman, made the King frown.
“Tell me what’s wrong at this instant.” He whispered to the woman, making her huff silently.
“The WooDalChi General is missing.”
“What? And only now you tell me!” The silence that followed was deafening, Lady Choi didn’t dare look up. “Have you searched everywhere? The barracks and gardens, what about the medical office?”
“We have Majesty. We are worried for we can’t find the General nor his shadow sir.” The last time something like this had happened at least the High Doctor could be fetched and sent tos top the punk from doing something stupid; but now… Had it been because she was not found? In desperation…
“Have you searched his room?”
“He has not been using his room since…” Said the Vice General, but stopped, and hurried away.
=
=
The door burst open, making Dae Man turn and look at the Vice General entering. He dropped the cloth he was holding and hurried to the man, begging him in silent gestures to be quiet. The Vice General looked down at the bed, where the general laid curled and covered, and turned to Dae Man; slapping the back of the boy’s head.
“Have you any idea how worried we’ve been?”
“He… he didn’t want me to call for anyone. He just wanted to rest.” Sputtered the boy, making the Vice General turn away. Lady Choi entered the room, and upon setting eyes on her nephew seemed to lose the weight of desperation, but not of worry. “I’ve been keeping him hydrated, like the High Doctor teach us. He has a very high fever.”
“Go find Deo Gi and have her bring a fever reducer.”
“Yes.” And the boy, receiving a second more painful slap to the back of his head, followed the order. Lady Choi brought a small stool, and sat next to the man, taking the cloth and wetting his lips.
“Young-ah? Young-ah, can you hear me?”
His eyes were closed, and turning slightly she could see his lips trembling, pale. “Imja? Imja?” The words made the woman look up at the Vice General, who was as astonished as she was. The man turned away, probably conflicted as she felt, but not as strong.
“Shh, Young-ah, shh… She’ll be back. Now drink some of this water.”
“Aunt, don’t… tell her… don’t tell her about this…. Don’t worry Imja…”
“I won’t, punk, now drink this.”
=
=
When the Queen heard all of this from Lady Choi she turned away. Her delicate hand lifted, and covered her trembling lips, her eyes closed as a stray tear fell down her cheek and was quickly cleaned.
“How can a love last this long? Without measure or hope?”
“Even if he ran out of hope he’s holding tight onto faith.”
“Is there something I can do? Probably a meal or… or…” The Queen had such a big heart, full of love and care for those around her; especially those who had touched her life in every special way. Choi Young had not only brought a woman doctor to save her, he’d also brought her from captivity, soothed away her fears and obeyed her every command even when it meant going against himself. And besides she owed taking care of the General for the High Doctor.
“The Suribang has already sent a pig bot of rice soup, and there is enough medicine to last him a lifetime thanks to Deo Gi.”
“I would like to do something for him.” She said, cleaning the stray tears. She looked around, her eyes setting on a large pot outside. “Flowers!”
“I’m sorry?”
=
=
Delicious rice soup was delivered to his lips and lazily he ate; when his pledged aunt had said this was the best soup in all of Goryeo she’d meant it. Hungry as he was, this the third plate, he had to agree. Lady Choi had helped Choi Young to a sitting position, the injury had been checked and with his fever down there was very little to do but feed him and wait till his strength returned. He’d laughed when he heard the wild goose chase that had issued when he’d vanished; wondering why it had happened.
“You fool, with all that’s happening and you still want to…” She halted his feeding, and watched him smiled. His lips were yet to regain color, as was his face, and he could only smile and nod. “Ate some more.” She said, softly, offering the spoon. “Tomorrow morning I’ll make you some milk porridge, just like you like it.”
“Thank you aunt.” He whispered, and opened his mouth to take the food. “I wanted to be near her.” He said suddenly, looking at her. “I know I can’t so I came to the place she last was, and it felt like she was here, taking care of me.”
“That was Dae Man and myself.”
“Yes, doing things she teach you to do; keep me warm, hydrated and find the fever reducer when the fever doesn’t break.” He lowered his eyes and swallowed hard. “She was here too aunt.” She watched him in surprise, as if realization sank for both of them. He laughed, dryly, and hid away his eyes with the back of his forearm. “What is wrong with me?” He said leaning back; he’d been pushed to the limit and this was it. His pain was raw and although he was the general, this woman right here was the only consolation he had. “I see her everywhere, I see her in my dreams and nightmares, in the middle of the street and strolling in the night, I can smell and almost touch her but she’s a mirage, and I am the man dying of thirst in the middle of the desert.” He turned to the large pot set right under his window, a small token of the Queen’s love, filled to the bring with yellow mums. “Even in those flowers I see her.”
Lady Choi could say nothing. This was a devastated man in love.
“Aigoo,” She produced as a tear slid down both their cheeks. “What am I supposed to do with you now?”