CHAPTER 16
1066 Words
He practically skips towards the cave.
"Chop chop! Last one there has to arrange thistles!"
He chuckles, following Gromgar at a more dignified pace.
"Careful, Chief. We wouldn't want you to trip and chop off that magnificent beard of yours."
One week later, the mountain bustles with activity as the Haemosu settle into their new home.
She surveys the transformed landscape from the mouth of their cave headquarters.
"Your Highness, I must admit, we've accomplished more in a week than I thought possible in a month."
He nods, gesturing to the newly planted fields below.
"Indeed. Who knew Gromgar's warriors had such green thumbs? Though I suspect their enthusiasm for 'chopping' had something to do with it."
He strides up, his pink mustache even more vibrant than usual.
"Chop chop! My men are masters of all trades. Why, just yesterday, we perfected our axe-tilling technique. The seeds practically planted themselves in fear!"
She raises an eyebrow.
"And I suppose next you'll tell me you've trained the rice to grow in the shape of flower arrangements?"
His eyes light up at the idea.
"Let's save that... innovative idea for next season, shall we? For now, how about we focus on our first strategy meeting in the new war room?"
"Your Highness, when you said we'd be incorporating Gromgar's customs, I didn't quite picture... this."
He pats a nearby bouquet of thistles.
"Bah! You haven't seen war until you've seen it through the lens of a well-arranged centerpiece. Now, where's that strawberry milk? Can't start chopping strategies without it!"
He unrolls a map on the flower-strewn table.
"we need to discuss our next move. The Gojhang Empire won't stay quiet for long."
She leans over the map, her brow furrowed.
"You're right, Your Highness. But before we dive into strategies, perhaps we should celebrate our progress? The Haemosu headquarters is finally complete."
He slams his axe on the table, scattering flower petals.
"Chop chop! A celebration, you say? I'll break out the special strawberry milk!"
He raises an eyebrow at Gromgar's enthusiasm.
"Well, I suppose a small gathering wouldn't hurt. It might boost morale."
Hours later, the cave headquarters is filled with laughter and the clinking of cups.
He sways, holding a flower-adorned axe aloft.
"To the Haemosu! May our enemies tremble at our flower-arranging skills!"
She watches Gromgar's antics from a corner.
"I never thought I'd see the day when fierce warriors celebrated with daisy chains."
He approaches Yuna, a rare smile on his face.
"Captain, you're not joining in the festivities? Even I've managed to let my guard down for once."
She looks away, trying to hide her blush.
"Someone has to keep a clear head, Your Highness. We can't all be doing interpretive axe dances like Gromgar over there."
He gestures towards the dance floor.
"Come now, Yuna. Even you deserve a moment of joy. Care to join me for a dance? I promise I'm better at it than strategy."
She hesitates, her heart racing.
"I... I'm not much of a dancer, Your Highness. Perhaps another time."
As Bimboryeo shrugs and moves away, Yuna's eyes follow him, a mix of longing and resolve in her gaze.
He crashes into Yuna, spilling strawberry milk on her.
"Oops! Sorry, Captain Serious! Here, let me clean that with my beard-"
She dodges Gromgar's helpful beard.
"Chief, I appreciate the offer, but I think I'll manage on my own. Why don't you go teach Bimboryeo your... unique dance moves?"
He brightens at the suggestion.
"Chop chop! What a brilliant idea! Prince Bimboryeo, prepare for the dance of a thousand swinging axes!"
He backs away from the approaching Gromgar.
"Now, Chief, let's not be hasty- Yuna, a little help here?"
She smirks, enjoying Bimboryeo's predicament.
"Sorry, Your Highness. I'm not much of a dancer, remember? I'm sure you and Gromgar will make a lovely pair."
As the night wears on, Yuna watches Bimboryeo laughing and stumbling through Gromgar's wild dances.
She whispers to herself, clutching her cup.
"Oh, Bimboryeo... if only you knew. But for now, this secret stays with me."
He collapses next to Yuna, out of breath.
"I think I've had enough 'chopping' for one night. Remind me never to challenge Gromgar to a dance-off again."
She chuckles, offering Bimboryeo a hand.
"Come on, Your Highness. We should get some rest. Tomorrow's training won't be any easier than Gromgar's dance moves."
The next morning, as the sun peeks over Mount Muhgol, the Haemosu gather for their intense rehearsal.
He surveys the warriors, his eyes sharp despite the late night.
"Alright, Haemosu! Show me what you've got. And please, no axe-dancing today."
She stands beside Bimboryeo, arms crossed.
"Remember, comrades, stealth is key. We're not here to chop down forests like some strawberry-milk-chugging chiefs I could mention."
As the warriors begin their drills, one figure stands out, moving with grace and deadly precision.
His eyes widen, tracking the skilled warrior's movements.
"Yuna, are you seeing this? That swordsman... he's incredible."
She nods, a hint of admiration in her voice.
"Indeed. His spearwork isn't half bad either. Seems we've found ourselves a prodigy."
The warrior finishes his demonstration with a flourish, bowing deeply to Bimboryeo and Yuna.
He steps forward, gesturing for the warrior to approach.
"You there! What's your name, soldier?"
He kneels before Bimboryeo, head bowed.
"Bunja, Your Highness. I am honored to serve the Haemosu."
He helps Bunja to his feet, grinning.
"Well, Bunja, I haven't seen swordsmanship like that since... well, since I last saw myself in a mirror!"
She rolls her eyes at Bimboryeo's boast.
"Your Highness, perhaps we should see how Bunja fares against a real opponent. Care for a friendly spar?"
He draws his sword with a flourish.
"Excellent idea, Captain! Bunja, prepare to face the might of Chongsan's second prince!"
He readies his stance, a glint in his eye.
"It would be my honor, Your Highness. Though I must warn you, I've been known to make princes work for their victories."
She steps back, giving them space.
"This should be interesting. My money's on the new guy, Your Highness. No offense."
He gasps dramatically.
"Yuna? Very well, I shall prove my worth!, Bunja!"
The clash of steel echoes through the training grounds as Bimboryeo and Bunja begin their duel.
She watches the match intently, whispering to herself.
"Hmm... Bunja's skill is undeniable, but there's something familiar about his style. Could it be...?"
- Writer
