The Art of Villainy (SEVENTEEN)
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."
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