Citadel of Hearts: The Emperor's Triumph | JC

Chapter 24: Love's Labyrinth

The clouds, like wisps of cotton candy, began to dim slightly as the radiant sun gracefully descended behind their billowy veils. Its fading rays cast a warm, golden glow over the landscape, illuminating the scene with a soft, ethereal light. Amidst the tranquil beauty of the setting sun, the air was alive with the exuberant energy of celebration.

Loud cheers and jubilant hoots reverberated through the atmosphere, intertwining with the rhythmic beats of traditional drums that echoed like a heartbeat, pulsating with the rhythm of the festivities. Each drumbeat seemed to resonate with the collective excitement of the crowd, infusing the air with a palpable sense of anticipation and joy.

As Jeonghan stood amidst the throng of revelers, a euphoric sense of joy enveloped him, suffusing his spirit with warmth and contentment. His gaze swept across the scene before him, taking in the sight of children frolicking across the field with carefree abandon. They darted to and fro, their laughter ringing out like melodious bells, as they chased one another with vibrant hues clutched tightly in their hands. Each burst of laughter seemed to paint the air with an invisible brush, creating a tapestry of happiness that enveloped all who were fortunate enough to witness it.

"Come on!" Jeonghan's voice rang out amidst the lively spectacle, his wrist seized in a playful gesture by Jisoo, who pulled him away with an infectious grin. Jeonghan laughed in response, turning to gaze at his companion with a mixture of curiosity and excitement.

"Where are you leading me?" Jeonghan inquired, his curiosity piqued as Jisoo motioned for silence and presented him with a scarf, its vibrant colors shimmering in the fading light.

"What's this?" Jeonghan queried, inspecting the scarf with genuine interest as Jisoo adorned his own face with a similar garment, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

"This," Jisoo explained with a playful grin, "is a traditional game of Sel." He gestured toward the crowd, where groups of revelers were engaged in a spirited game, their faces alight with laughter and mischief.

Jeonghan nodded in understanding, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he realized the nature of the game. It was a game steeped in tradition, a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and camaraderie.

"It sounds delightful," Jeonghan remarked, allowing Jisoo to help him secure the scarf around his person. He felt a surge of excitement coursing through his veins, eager to join in the festivities and experience the thrill of the game for himself.

"Between partners," Jisoo continued, his voice tinged with amusement, "the first to be adorned with colors must heed their spouse's commands for eternity. I refuse to let Seungcheol emerge victorious; you shall reign over him," he declared with a chuckle, eliciting laughter from Jeonghan.

"Do you truly believe he will spare me?" Jeonghan teased, casting a playful glance in Seungcheol's direction, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"May I also participate in coloring him?" Jeonghan inquired eagerly, observing as Jisoo rummaged within his hanbok layers.

"Indeed," Jisoo replied with a grin, producing two packets of crimson hues. Jeonghan grinned in anticipation as he accepted one, his heart pounding with excitement.

"This promises to be a delightful diversion," he remarked, tearing open the packet and scattering the vibrant pigment into his palm, swirling and mixing it with gleeful anticipation.

"Indeed," Jisoo agreed, mirroring Jeonghan's actions with equal enthusiasm. "Hence, you must bestow color upon Seungcheol the moment you spot him, understood?" he instructed, his tone filled with determination.

Jeonghan nodded eagerly, his eyes shining with excitement as he prepared to immerse himself fully in the joyous spirit of the occasion.

"But why do we hide?" Jeonghan queried, his curiosity getting the better of him as he glanced around their concealed vantage point.