Chunho paused at the door, his eyes narrowing slightly as he considered Jeoyoon's request. "You want to come along?" he repeated, his tone slightly surprised. He glanced down at Jeoyoon, who was still holding onto his robe, his eyes wide with determination.
"Yes," Jeoyoon replied firmly, though his voice trembled slightly. "I don't want to be left alone here... Besides, I feel better now. I won't sleep or clingy to you too much."
Chunho studied him for a moment, weighing the pros and cons of bringing him along. It wasn't customary to bring someone in Jeoyoon's condition, especially given the sensitive matters at hand. But then again, Chunho was never one to follow customs rigidly.
"Alright," Chunho finally said, his tone softening as he relented. "But you must promise to stay quiet and not overexert yourself. We're heading to see the regional commander, and I can't have you collapsing on me halfway."
Jeoyoon nodded eagerly, grateful for the chance to accompany Chunho. Plus he got to see what the manor of a regional commander looked like. "I promise," he said earnestly.
Chunho couldn't help but smile at Jeoyoon's determination and shook his head. He turned back to adjust Jeoyoon's clothing, making sure he was properly covered and warm enough for the carriage ride. "Stay close to me," he instructed, his voice gentle but firm. "And if you start feeling unwell, you tell me immediately. Understood?"
Jeoyoon nodded again, feeling a warmth spread through him at Chunho's concern. "Understood. And can we get sweets on the way back? I want dumplings and rice cakes and also spicy noodle soup with ginseng chicken soup and bulgogi. We can exclude the kimchi, it's a bit too sour for me."
"…."
"Well you've certainly gotten your appetite back. Alright, let's have lunch after we see the regional commander. I know a good restaurant.."
With that, Chunho led Jeoyoon out of the room and toward the waiting carriage. The crisp afternoon air greeted them as they stepped outside, and Jeoyoon felt a shiver run down his spine. Chunho noticed and draped a heavy cloak over Jeoyoon's shoulders before helping him into the carriage.
"Its not even winter yet and you're already cold.."
"…"
Jeoyoon pouted, his body was very sensitive to cold during his cycle but he couldn't tell Chunho that.
"Winter's drawing close, it will be here before we know it. Chunho before it gets here is it possible to get some winter clothes for the servants? I know I'm asking for too much but it's uncomfortable to walk around when you're so cold.."
"…"
"Alright, since my little pet pities them I'll do as you say."
Jeoyoon smiled, now they wouldn't have to worry about spending money to buy paddings and can use it on their families.
"Thank you."
The ride to the regional commander's quarters was quiet, the rhythmic sound of the carriage wheels on the cobblestone roads lulling Jeoyoon into a calm state. Chunho remained close, his presence comforting as Jeoyoon leaned slightly against him.
As they neared their destination, Chunho spoke, breaking the silence. "The regional commander is a straightforward man, but don't be intimidated by his demeanor. He's loyal and has served the crown faithfully for years. And he couldn't dare to say anything out of order in my presence, so you have nothing to worry about."
Jeoyoon nodded, absorbing Chunho's words. He was curious about the man they were about to meet, but he trusted Chunho's judgment.
But why did he say he wouldn't be able to say anything out of order in presence, the only rank above a regional commander was the supreme commander.
"Don't tell me….no way! Are you the current supreme commander?"
Jeoyoon eyes widened at the thought, it was unbelievable that at Chunho's age he was already the supreme commander!
"Mhm…this is my fifth year."
"Fifth year!!"
When the carriage finally stopped, Chunho stepped out first, offering his hand to Jeoyoon. Jeoyoon hesitated for a brief moment before accepting, letting Chunho help him down. They approached the entrance, and Chunho glanced back at Jeoyoon, giving him a reassuring nod before they stepped inside together.
The regional commander awaited them in the main hall, his expression stern as he greeted Chunho with a deep bow. "Supreme Commander Kang and his company," he said in a deep voice, his eyes briefly flickering to Jeoyoon before returning to Chunho. "Welcome."
Chunho returned the bow with a nod. "Commander Woojin, thank you for receiving us on such short notice. This is Jeoyoon, a companion of mine. He'll be accompanying us today."
The regional commander's gaze lingered on Jeoyoon for a moment longer before he nodded in acknowledgment. "Of course, Supreme Commander Kang."
With formalities out of the way, Chunho led Jeoyoon further into the hall, his hand gently resting on the small of Jeoyoon's back as a subtle reminder of his presence.
"I've prepared tea in advance, it's Jasmine I hope you like it.."
As Chunho and Jeoyoon settled in the regional commander's quarters, the atmosphere grew more serious. The regional commander Woojin, a man in his late forties with a stern face lined from years of service, motioned for them to sit. Chunho took a seat at the low table, while Jeoyoon sat beside him, quietly observing the exchange.
"Commander Woojin," Chunho began, his tone authoritative, "I've received reports that the forces along the naval and east coast regions have been steadily decreasing. This is concerning, given the strategic importance of those areas. Can you explain the situation?"
The regional commander straightened, his expression growing more serious. "Supreme Commander, the situation has indeed become challenging. We've seen a rise in clashes along the eastern coast, particularly with pirate groups. The naval forces have been stretched thin, attempting to patrol these waters while still guarding against potential threats from neighboring regions."
Chunho's eyes narrowed slightly as he processed this information. "And the land forces? I've noticed a reduction in the number of soldiers stationed at key outposts along the coast."
The commander sighed, a hint of frustration in his voice. "We've had difficulties in recruitment recently. The eastern provinces have suffered from poor harvests, leading to widespread hunger and unrest. Many of the young men who would normally join the ranks have either left to seek work elsewhere or are too weakened by the famine to serve. We've been forced to reallocate troops from other regions, but it's left us vulnerable."
"…"