Jin-Ho knelt before a plain gravestone, his sword lying across his knees while the wind rustled through the woodland. Jin-Ho felt the burden of a lifetime resting on the little stone that marked the grave.
Although Yun Zhen was no longer visible, his sacrifice endured. The hilt of Jin-Ho's blade, the identical sword that had previously collided with Zhen's, was still in his hand. As a reminder that every battle left wounds that time could not heal, it now slept peacefully by his side.
Jin-Ho muttered to the wind, "I continued." "Exactly like you stated. I had higher goals in life.
He stood slowly, bringing Zhen's memory with him as he left the past behind.
Tae-Min unfolded a map of the kingdom in the prince's quarters and used his finger to trace its borders. "We will be put to the test by the nobles," he replied quietly. "They will seek retribution for Seo Kyung's ordeal."
With the knowledge that the prince was correct, Jin-Ho listened silently. Power never remained motionless.
Tae-Min looked directly at Jin-Ho and stated, "I need your sword." "We must use the blade of fate with caution if we are to bring about peace because it cuts both ways."
Although he was aware that the path ahead would not be simple, Jin-Ho nodded. With each step forward, the unknown grew larger.
Sitting together on the palace wall, they observed the stars as they dispersed into the night sky. There was no urgency, no battle awaiting fight, for the first time in a long time.
Mei Lin placed her head on Jin-Ho's shoulder and murmured, "You could go, you know." "Start anew at a distant location. Nobody would hold you accountable.
Jin-Ho gave a small smile. "I've spent my entire life jogging. I should have stayed.
They sat in silence as Mei Lin's hand found his, allowing the burden of the past to weigh on them both. Together, they would confront whatever lay ahead.
The palace was not at rest for long. A royal scout came bearing bad news: there were reports of activity from the assassin guild's surviving members. There was a gap left by Kaida's passing, and new groups were emerging to fill it.
Jin-Ho grimaced as he folded the message. Peace was merely a brief respite between storms and was never really achievable.
He was aware of what needed to be done. He couldn't afford to put down his sword just yet if the kingdom was to survive.
With his sword back at his side, Jin-Ho stood at the palace's gates. He had no idea what the future contained, only that it would be shaped by his decisions, whether positively or negatively.
It was okay that the way was no longer obvious. The blade of fate was designed to cut through uncertainty, dread, and regret, not to be wielded with assurance.
Jin-Ho gripped his sword's hilt tighter as he took one more glance at the rising sun. He was prepared for what lay ahead this time.