The Unspoken Vow - Chapter 1
The world shimmered in white. Tiny, delicate little things fluttered wildly in the wind, adorning the clear blue sky.
They resembled the snowflakes of a bitter winter. But when one reached out to touch them, they were not cold. Instead, they were soft.
They were petals.
A carefree young maid jumped up and down, trying to catch the falling cherry blossoms. Normally, an erratic scolding would have followed, but none among those gathered beneath the tall stone wall said a word. After all, they were mere servants, ones without a master to attend to— there was no need to stop her. Perhaps they even understood her, sharing a similar sentiment. It’s natural to be drawn to something beautiful and wanting to touch it, isn’t it?
Whether it’s a petal— or a man.
“How is it that you never get tired of looking at him?”
The maid, who had been craning her neck and sneaking peeks over the edge of the wall, muttered quietly.
“Well, I’ve seen him plenty, and it’s still killing me with anticipation.”
“Exactly! He even showed up in my dream last night.”
“Oh, for goodness’ sake… you’re so hopeless. Keep talking like that and you’ll regret it.”
As their voices grew louder, a petite maid standing nearby quickly intervened. Unfortunately, it was futile. There were too many of them. All the maids lined up in front of Lady Min’s residence had their attention drawn to one place— and for good reason. Among the maids accompanying their esteemed young ladies, there was an unexpected presence: a man, of all people. Naturally, he became the centre of attention.
Even if he had merely worn trousers, whispers would have spread like wildfire. But his striking appearance made it impossible for the maids—most of them past their prime—to not peek at him or stop gushing.
“What nonsense is this? Not just for a day or two, but endlessly disgraceful…”
Displeased by the cackling of the young maids, Old Lady Byeongdu clicked her tongue in disapproval.
“Why not? I think it’s good to have something to look forward to— it makes our lives interesting.”
“Exactly. It’s the little pleasures like these that make a servant’s life bearable, don’t you think?”
“Yes, that’s true.”
Old Lady Byeongdu’s scolding was easily brushed aside as everyone chimed in with agreement. Waiting out under the scorching spring sun for two full hours was far more bearable with some sort of spectacle to pass the time, given they weren’t even being punished.
“By the way, whose servant is he? He looks so handsome?”
Amidst the women sitting in a circle, a small head suddenly popped in. Although they were all acquaintances from nearby households, her face was unfamiliar. Rumour had it that a scholar who recently returned to the countryside had settled in the village— and it seemed that this maid was from his household. Her curiosity was evident as she fidgeted in place, a sight that amused the older maids, who chuckled softly.
“Oh, come on, don’t just laugh,” the maid protested.
“He’s probably so handsome because he’s not a servant,” remarked one with a knowing tone.
A grey-haired servant, who had been quietly observing, casually chimed in, “He’s no servant.”
“Really? He’s not a servant? Then does that mean he’s a slave?” the young maid’s eyes widened in surprise.
“And if he’s not a slave?” Old Lady Byeongdu interjected with a smirk.
What did that even mean? Was she teasing them, or trying to assert her dominance? The maid tilted her head in frustration.
Creaaak.
The heavy gate, which had been firmly shut, swung wide open. Elegantly adorned young noblewomen emerged, each carrying a book in their arms, and walked in one by one.
Madam Min, the esteemed aunt of the household, was renowned in the area for her gentle disposition. Her reputation extended not only to her refined character but also to her impressive knowledge of scholarly pursuits, embroidery, and painting—all essential qualities for a lady of high standing. She was also well-connected with the most reputable matchmakers and brokers in Hanyang, making her a valuable acquaintance.
As a result, prominent families often sent their marriageable daughters to study under her guidance. It was a special education program aimed at grooming future exemplary wives and wise mothers.
Every morning, without fail, the entrance to her household would be bustling with noblewomen seeking her tutelage. Their maids would linger outside, waiting for their young mistresses to finish their lessons. On fair-weather days, the wait was manageable, but when heavy rain poured, they would be left shivering, drenched to the bone. Madam Min’s gracious nature, it seemed, did not extend to servants.
At the sight of their mistresses appearing, the maids scattered swiftly, their chatter abruptly stopped. Amid the commotion, a figure, as imposing as a mountain, strode into the scene.
The man’s attire was simple. The faded indigo fabric fluttered in the wind. Though it was time for him to tie his hair up in a topknot, his unrestrained hair cascaded down to his broad shoulders. His appearance was anything but modest. His bold demeanour exuded an air of someone who lived according to his own rules, unbound by societal norms.
His aura should have made them avoid someone like him. Yet, the lowly maids and the noble ladies gazed at him with the same expression.
His long strides halted in front of the large stone steps beneath the gate. At the end of his slightly raised gaze stood a woman, poised and elegant, with a dignified smile on her face.
“Nanwoou-ya.”
***
Note:
Seoul, the capital of South Korea was referred to as Hanyang during Joseon Era.
Koreans use ‘ah’ or ‘ya’ after a name to show their closeness