The Art of Villainy (SEVENTEEN)
A Silent Awakening
Author
This is my first time writing a system villain story
Author
I’m really excited to share it with you all! It’s a fun and thrilling ride, and I hope you enjoy the twists and turns along the way.
Quick Disclaimer:
This story is actually inspired by a plot I came across a while ago. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find the original author or story to give proper credit. Please note, I am not directly copying the original work but rather taking inspiration from its outline. The story will unfold according to my own writing style, so while some elements may resemble the original, everything will evolve in a direction of my own making.
I hope you all enjoy the story and join me on this journey!
The palace was quiet, hidden under the early morning mist.
A soft wind moved through the empty hallways, making the old wooden floors creak and the silk curtains dance slowly. The smell of burnt wood and old incense hung heavy in the air. The faint light from the lanterns shook with the breeze, casting long, strange shadows along the walls.
Far away, a large bell rang — a deep sound that echoed through the cold air, marking the hour before sunrise.
Inside a room in the east wing, everything was still.
The bed in the center of the room stood tall and grand, made of dark wood, carved with dragons and flowers. It was covered with many layers of silk blankets, soft and heavy, like they were meant to keep the outside world away.
On the bed, someone was moving — caught in a some kind of nightmare.
An omega, young and beautiful, tossed and turned under the covers. His skin, pale like snow, was wet with sweat. His hands clutched the sheets tightly as soft, broken words slipped from his mouth.
Outside, the wind let out a sharp howl. At the same time, the omega jerked awake, sitting up fast with a loud gasp.
His chest rose and fell quickly, struggling for air. His brown eyes were wide.
He wiped his forehead with a shaking hand, trying to calm his racing heart.
A soft noise made him freeze — a floorboard creaking near the door.
He turned his head sharply.
Maid
(gentle voice) Master Jisoo?
The door slid open, and a young maid stepped inside, bowing deeply. She wore a simple but tidy jeogori and chima, her expression warm yet filled with caution.
Maid
Are you alright, Young Master Joshua?
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
I’m fine (said after a pause, voice rough and quiet)
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
Just a dream.
Maid
Young Master I will inform the Master at once of your waking, and have your bath prepared.
She said quickly, casting one last worried glance at him before hurrying from the room.
Silence returned once again.
omega sat still on the bed, feeling the soft sheets around him
He closed his eyes and spoke in his mind.
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
Details !
System
《System Activated》
《Loading Memory... 98%... 100%》
《Mission World: Earth 0137 — Omegaverse — The Forbidden Bloom》
《Identity: Joshua Jung — Omega — Son of Minister》
《Mission Goal: Survive and Change Fate》
The cold, familiar voice of the system filled his mind.
And then the story unfolded.
“The story takes place in an ancient kingdom, where strict traditions govern the roles of alphas, betas, and omegas. In this world, omegas are expected to be soft-spoken, obedient, and hidden behind veils of modesty. But one omega defied it all—Baek Hana, the female lead.”
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(Smirk weakened slightly at the word husband)
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
My future husband falling for someone else? How delightful (murmured)
System
(Unbothered, the System went on)
“Prince Mingyu, Seungcheol, and Hana become an inseparable trio. Both alphas fall deeply for Hana, but it is Prince Mingyu who captures her heart. They marry, and Hana ascends as Queen, while Seungcheol willingly steps back, remaining a loyal friend to them both.”
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(Tilted his head, amber eyes narrowing) And where does Jung Jisoo fit into this charming little play?
System
(Whispered, its voice as cold and inexorable as fate itself)
"Jung Jisoo is the only son of Minister Jung, an influential figure at the Imperial Court,"
"Born a rare male omega to a powerful bloodline, you were treasured beyond reason — and thus, spoil by it."
System
(Tone dropped, growing heavier)
“The original Jung Jisoo fell for Seungcheol at first sight. Used to getting anything he desired, he mistook obsession for love. Despite Seungcheol’s clear refusal—his heart belonging fully to Hana—Jisoo couldn’t accept it. Driven by desperation, he pressured his father, Minister Jung Hoseok, who leveraged his power at court to arrange a forced marriage between you and Seungcheol.”
“After the forced marriage, Jisoo quickly realized a cruel truth. Though Seungcheol honored him with formal respect, his true gentleness, his rare smiles, and his unwavering protection were reserved only for Baek Hana. Toward Jisoo, there was only polite coldness—distant and unreachable.”
“Jealousy and bitterness began to fester in Jisoo’s heart. Watching Seungcheol’s every tender glance toward Hana, every moment of quiet care, made him feel invisible, unwanted. Unable to bear it, Jisoo’s obsession took a darker turn. He began plotting against Hana, believing that if she disappeared, Seungcheol would have no choice but to turn to him.”
“But no matter how carefully Jisoo wove his schemes—poisoned tea, rigged accidents, whispered rumors—Hana was always saved, whether by mighyu or Seungcheol’s vigilance or by pure fate. Each failure pushed Jisoo further into desperation and madness, until finally, in a final reckless act, he tried to take her life with his own hands.”
“He was caught, and in the end, stripped of his titles and imprisoned. Not long after, Jisoo, once the pampered heir, was executed for his crimes, and everyone leaved happily everafter."
Joshua didn’t answer right away. Instead, he strolled toward the window, gazing out at the misty estate gardens. His voice dropped to a low whisper, almost like a secret carried by the morning fog.
Beneath his breath, so quietly the System almost missed it
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(muttered)
Seungcheol...
A name spoken like a wish—and a warning.
The System fell silent, sensing the shift in the air.
The doors swung open with a loud crash.
minister Jung Hoseok
Jisoo!
Minister Jung Hoseok rushed in, his silken robes flying behind him. He crossed the room in seconds, reaching Joshua and cupping his face with trembling hands.
minister Jung Hoseok
My precious boy
minister Jung Hoseok
Did you have a nightmare? Why didn’t you call for me?
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(Smiled sweetly, a smile he had perfected over the years)
I’m fine, Father. Just a strange dream.
Hoseok sighed, brushing Joshua’s hair back with soft, loving hands. His eyes held nothing but warmth.
minister Jung Hoseok
You’re everything to me, Jisoo. I’ll protect you from anything — always.
Joshua nodded obediently, leaning into his father’s touch.
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
I know, Father (murmurs)
For a while, they stayed like that — a father and son, wrapped in quiet warmth. The room, heavy with velvet curtains and golden morning light, seemed to hush itself to listen.
And for now, in that peaceful moment, Joshua allowed himself to simply be a son
But how long would this peace last?
Joshua’s lips curled into the faintest of smiles, eyes glinting with an unspoken thought.
The storm was always closer than it seemed.
Author
Hope you're enjoying the story!
Author
Cheolsoo is my comfort ship
Author
Hope you're loving it as much as I am!
Whispers of Change
The air in the chamber was still warm from Minister Jung Hoseok’s visit. His scent—rich like spring sandalwood and worn parchment—lingered long after he had left.
Jisoo sat quietly, letting his fingers press into the soft embroidered bedding, eyes unreadable.
A gentle knock came moments later.
Jisoo rose slowly, letting a yawn curl past his lips like a kitten stretching in sunlight. He moved with graceful laziness, letting the act sink in just a little deeper.
The bathhouse was connected to his quarters, The bathing chamber was serene, wrapped in a gentle warmth that seeped into the aged wooden walls and floor.
A deep pinewood tub sat proudly at its center, its polished surface glistening softly under the amber glow of hanging lanterns. The scent of damp wood and rising steam filled the air, calming and clean. Steam curled upward in delicate tendrils, dancing toward the rafters, as if savoring the peaceful silence.
He stepped in gently, the warm water licking over pale skin, his lashes fluttering down.
Attendants respectfully bowed and stepped out, leaving him alone in the silence.
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(closed his eyes and spoke inwardly.)
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
When does the heroine meet the male leads?
System
Age 16. She disguised herself as a noble alpha boy and snuck into the Imperial Hunting Grounds at Cheongho. She rescued a royal hound caught in a trap. Seungcheol and Crown Prince Mingyu were impressed. They became fast friends—but later, both figured out she was actually an omega in disguise.
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(Small smile curved)
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
So she didn’t fool them for long.
System
No host you can say they immediately find out after 2 to 3 day of there original meet
System
Then they were drawn to her boldness. As time passed, they let her stay with them. They believed she was exceptional.
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(Lifting a wet hand to watch water stream through his fingers) That sounds like fun.
Time in the estate passed like a calm river. Day by day, season’s edge crept toward spring.
Jisoo smiled more. He stopped throwing tea cups. He took up embroidery—badly—and giggled when he pricked his finger. His tantrums were replaced by soft sighs and dazed blinking. Even during formal readings, he sat cross-legged with a gentle frown of focus that made tutors feel proud.
Main while, side corridor near the laundry yard, the two senior maids leaned close over folded linens, whispering with wide eyes and half-covered mouths.
Maid 1
Have you noticed, truly noticed, how the young master has changed?
Maid 2
Of course I have. Just yesterday, he thanked me for bringing his shoes. Thanked me. Can you believe it?
Maid 1
Months ago, he would’ve flung them at your head if the ribbons weren’t tied to his liking.
The other giggled softly behind her sleeve
Maid 2
He looks softer now too, like those porcelain dolls in the capital markets. The ones you’re afraid to breathe near.
They both snickered quietly until a low, gruff voice interrupted them.
Butler Hwan
If you have time to gossip like chickens, perhaps the laundry has folded itself.
The maids jumped, spinning to face Head Butler Hwan, the strict man with gray streaks in his neatly tied hair and eyes that saw everything, even through walls.
But instead of scolding harshly, he folded his arms and nodded thoughtfully.
Butler Hwan
you’re not entirely wrong.
He glanced toward the hall that led to the young master’s quarters.
The butler sighed and lowered his voice.
Butler Hwan
During the young master’s last monthly health check, the physician informed the Minister that he’s entering the early stages of puberty.
Butler Hwan
He’s only thirteen, changes come early—physically, emotionally. The physician said his temperament may shift as well.
The two maids stared, wide-eyed, until the butler turned toward the hallway.
Butler Hwan
Now get back to work.
The maids bowed quickly, hiding their smiles.
Maid 2
Yes, Head Butler-nim!
With a final sharp look, he walked away.
The two maids were silent for a beat. Then one whispered:
Maid 2
(Suddenly flushed)That means... oh lord, he’s going to start—changing. Like we did at that age...
They glanced toward the main estate wing where Jisoo’s quarters were.
Maid 2
He really is growing up…
In the dim hush of the study, Minister Hoseok sat beneath the soft flicker of a lantern, a sealed scroll resting heavily in his hands. The wax bore the crimson insignia of the royal court—urgent, unmistakable.
He broke the seal with a deliberate motion, eyes scanning the elegant calligraphy within. A sigh left his lips, slow and tired.
minister Jung Hoseok
(murmurs)The capital summons me again
minister Jung Hoseok
Affairs of court, fragile alliances, and shadows too old to ignore.
A knock sounded at the door before the head butler Hwan entered, bowing low.
Butler Hwan
A royal message, my lord
minister Jung Hoseok
I’ve read it
minister Jung Hoseok
(Folding the letter) They’ve requested my presence before the Lantern Festival begins. The emperor never lets his spectacles go to waste—always mixing politics with celebrations.
He turned his gaze toward the open lattice window. In the distant garden, Jisoo knelt beside a peach tree, brush in hand, quietly sketching its blossoms. His pale sleeves fluttered in the breeze, and the soft look on his face was almost serene.
Hoseok watched in silence for a moment before speaking, more to himself than to the butler.
minister Jung Hoseok
Perhaps it’s time Jisoo saw the capital for himself… the lights, the noise, the masks people wear when the moon is full.
minister Jung Hoseok
He’ll like the Lantern Festival—it might bring a spark to his eyes again. A change of air may do him good.
The butler’s brows twitched slightly, but he said nothing.
minister Jung Hoseok
Prepare the household. We leave in three days (said firmly)
Butler Hwan
As you wish, my lord
"The quietest changes often echo the loudest in the hearts that notice."
A Question in the Evening Wind
The morning sun broke through the thin clouds like a golden promise as a grand lacquered carriage, pulled by four white horses, moved steadily along the imperial stone road. Riding in the carriage was Minister Jung Hoseok, seated beside his beloved only son, Jisoo. With them followed a small caravan of loyal servants, carrying embroidered trunks and delicately packed parcels. Inside the carriage, the scent of jasmine lingered, and silken curtains swayed gently with each turn of the road.
The capital city of Hanseong grew clearer in the distance—a majestic sprawl of curved tiled roofs, towering city gates, and bustling roads paved in stone. Plum and cherry trees lined the entranceways, their blossoms falling like soft snow onto the heads of travelers. The streets buzzed with life as citizens prepared for the annual Spring Moon Festival. Crimson banners hung between wooden beams, vendors sold candied fruits and silk fans, and laughter echoed from every tea house and lantern shop.
Inside the carriage, Hoseok leaned toward Jisoo, eyes fond and voice rich with affection
minister Jung Hoseok
Ah, you'll love it here, my flower. The Spring Moon Festival is a marvel. Lanterns of every color. Dancers in the street. And the pastries—oh, the pastries!
minister Jung Hoseok
(Grinned, placing a sweet in Jisoo's palm) These are made only during the festival. You must try it.
Joshua, dressed in soft rose robes and a pale jade belt
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(Appreciative smile) Thank you, Father.
minister Jung Hoseok
(Beamed) You look so beautiful today. Like your mother did when she came to court for the first time. I only wish she were here to see you
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(Looked down, touched) I only hope I make you proud.
minister Jung Hoseok
You already do
minister Jung Hoseok
Now remember, General Choi is an old friend of mine. He and his family will take good care of you while I handle affairs at court.
The carriage gradually came to a halt in front of a large estate, nestled within one of the city’s central noble districts. The house was stately but warm, with climbing ivy curling around columns and golden lanterns hanging at the entrance. Waiting at the steps were two figures: a tall alpha in dark robes with sharp eyes, and a beautiful omega dressed in soft lavender silks.
As soon as the carriage door opened, Lord Hoseok stepped out and turned to offer his hand to Joshua
minister Jung Hoseok
Come, sweetheart
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(Accepted the hand and stepped down gracefully, bowing in traditional noble fashion)
Greetings, General Choi and Madam Omega choi. I’m honored to be in your home.
General Choi Namjoon
(Raised an impressed brow) Such poise for someone so young.
Choi seokjin
(Beamed) And so polite too. Please, come in. The tea is waiting.
minister Jung Hoseok
Ah, Namjoon
minister Jung Hoseok
(Laughed as the two alphas clasped arms in greeting) Your house hasn’t changed. Still smells like cherrywood and Seokjin’s baking.
General Choi Namjoon
Some things are too good to change
As the men stepped aside to talk, Seokjin gently guided Jisoo through the spacious halls and into a side wing of the house.
Choi seokjin
(Smiled) I thought I’d take you to meet someone special
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
Who? (curious)
Choi seokjin
My mother-in-law. Namjoon’s grandmother.
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(Laughed softly) Then I hope I don’t disappoint.
They entered a sunlit sitting room where an elderly woman with silver hair and wise eyes sat with embroidery in her lap. She looked up, surprised as Joshua bowed deeply.
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
Lady Choi, it’s an honor to meet you.
Choi seokjin
(Respectfully) There’s someone I’d like you to meet.
At the sound of the voice, she looked up—her expression calm, composed, and discerning. But when Jisoo stepped forward and bowed with perfect etiquette, she paused, her eyes narrowing with interest.
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
Elder Lady Choi
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
(Gracefully, voice light and sweet) It’s an honor to meet you. I am Jisoo, son of Lord Jung Hoseok.
At that, a flicker of recognition crossed her face, and a rare smile tugged at her lips.
Grandma Choi
(Murmured, setting aside her needle) So this is the boy
Choi seokjin
(Chuckled softly) The very one.
Lady Choi studied Jisoo with quiet intensity, then gestured to the cushion beside her.
Grandma Choi
Come. Sit with me.
Choi seokjin
go (whispered softly)
Jisoo did as he was told, his movements fluid and gentle.
Grandma Choi
Can you embroider?
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
I’ve been practicing
Grandma Choi
(Modestly) Would you like to assist me ?
At her nod, Jisoo unfolded a square of silk from his pouch. The fabric was a soft ivory, and delicate cherry blossoms, hand-stitched with pink and white threads, bloomed across it.
The room fell silent for a moment.
Grandma Choi
(Leaned in, inspecting it) Delicate, but steady. You have a good hand.
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
Father said My mother was gifted at it
Jung Jisoo/Joshua
After she passed, I continued on my own. It brings me peace.
Grandma Choi
She must have been beautiful
Choi seokjin
And you can see her in him
They fell into a peaceful silence, watching Jisoo carefully guide the thread along a plum blossom petal on Lady Choi’s embroidery hoop. Time passed gently.
Later, when Jisoo stepped out to wash his hands before tea, Grandmother Choi glanced toward Seokjin with a knowing look.
Grandma Choi
(Quietly) That is Hoseok’s child.
Choi seokjin
(Tilted his head) You seem… pleased.
Grandma Choi
Much more than I expected to be
Choi seokjin
They say he’s arrogant. High and mighty. But I see a gentle heart, a fragile soul and he respects elders
Grandma Choi
(smiled fondly) Hoseok has raised him with love and dignity—and it shows.
Just then, Jisoo’s soft footsteps returned from the corridor, his eyes bright from washing and his sleeves carefully rolled back down.
Lady Choi looked at him again, then returned to her embroidery.
But this time, when she passed him the thread, it wasn’t just instruction—it was trust.
As Jisoo walked back through the corridors, he made his way toward the rear wing of the estate. The warm conversations with Seokjin and Lady Choi still lingered gently in his mind, but he needed a moment to himself—to breathe, to gather his thoughts.
The evening light had begun to settle over the mansion, casting soft gold and amber hues across the wooden floors. Shadows stretched long through the halls as the sun began its slow descent behind the distant hills.
Jisoo quietly slipped through a side door and stepped into the private back courtyard.
Jisoo sat beneath the largest tree, his hanbok soft and pale against the deepening twilight. The falling petals clung to his sleeves, to his hair, as if nature itself couldn’t help but adorn him. In the fading light, his features looked almost unreal—gentle, distant, like a spirit caught between worlds.
He closed his eyes, breathing in the evening stillness, the quiet lull of wind through branches.
“He asked, ‘Who are you?’ Strange—I’ve been wondering the same."
Author
what do you think who is this Unknown 🤔
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