🌸 WON HAEJIN'S POV 🌸

In the Transition Lounge, as I waited for my turn to re-enter the narrative, I found solace in the knowledge that Jina and I were united in our mission, ready to face whatever the intertwined stories had in store for us.

I took a deep breath, reflecting on the events of the day and the challenges that lay ahead. The holographic screen before me flickered and dimmed, leaving me in a serene silence.

“What if... what I saw back then wasn't a vision but... something else?” I muttered to myself, the weight of my thoughts pressing heavily on my mind. The more I pondered, the more tangled my thoughts became.

After what felt like an eternity, I decided to let it go for now and refocus on the narrative. There was no use getting lost in the labyrinth of my mind when the story demanded my attention.

With a sigh, I summoned my Holo-Tab and tapped the Tale-Tracker icon.

The interface lit up, displaying a plethora of updates and notifications.

“Wow! A lot has happened in the narrative,” I exclaimed, my eyes widening as I skimmed through the latest developments.

“Jina fainted and Prince So carried her to the sky tower,” I read aloud, feeling a mix of relief and curiosity.

“Does this mean that the horse was saved? Yes!”

“Okay, onto the next scene.”

“Go Ha Jin realized she's in Hae Soo's body.” I could almost see the bewildered look on her face as she grappled with her new reality.

“I wonder if the next scene will be the court scene.” As if in response to my words, the tracker automatically scrolled itself.

“It does! The princes stopped the Crown Prince's deposition,” I read, nodding my head in satisfaction.

“Okay, next.”

“Prince Junso informed Doo Na and Yong about Jina's fainting.” I read it again, furrowing my brows.

“Prince Junso? There wasn't any Prince Junso in the drama though.”

“Merged. The stories are merged.” A moment later, I reminded myself.

“He's probably someone from Jina's story then. I'll ask her later."

“The talk between Queen Yoo and Minister Wang,” I muttered, leaning closer. “Hmm... I hope Wang So didn't visit her.”

“Prince So threatened the physician to find the reason behind Jina's fainting.” I shook my head in disapproval.

“Well, technically, you were the reason!”

“Prince So threatened Doo Na and Yong to find out about the Spirit Split.” My eyes widened in surprise.

“Heol! Did he find out?”

“Prince Junso stopped Prince So from further threatening Jina's people.” I sighed in relief, feeling the tension ease.

“Oh, so he doesn't know.*

“Jina regained consciousness.” I nodded my head again.

“We're halfway through episode one,” I murmured. “Now, Jina just needs to reach Wook's residence on time, so I can stop the Soo-Wook moment.”

The pressure of ensuring everything went according to plan weighed heavily on my shoulders. The delicate balance of the narrative hinged on this crucial step, and I couldn't afford any mistakes.

🌸 POV CHANGE 🌸

After hours of waiting, Jina finally woke up, her eyes fluttering open.

Her vision was initially blurry, the dim light of the room slowly coming into focus. The familiar scent of herbal incense filled her nostrils, grounding her in the reality of her surroundings.

Time to follow the plot. She reminded herself and carefully sat on the bed.

Doo Na was the first to reach her, her face etched with concern. She gently placed a hand on Jina's forehead, her touch cool and reassuring.

“Miss! Thank the heavens you are awake,” she said softly.

Yong followed closely behind, his usually stoic expression softening with relief as he saw Jina's eyes open.

“We were worried,” he said, his deep voice carrying the weight of his concern.

Wang So and Wang Junso, who had been in the room the entire time, followed next.

Wang So's eyes were filled with a mixture of worry and relief as he stood at the foot of the bed, his gaze never leaving Jina's face.

He wanted to say something, but it was as if the words got stuck in his throat, his emotions rendering him momentarily speechless.

Wang Junso, who was standing beside Yong, looked down at Jina, his eyes scanning her face for any signs of distress.

“Are you alright, Lady Jina?” he asked, his voice betraying a hint of unease as he addressed his wife formally.

Jina gave a faint nod, her lips curling into a reassuring smile. “I'm alright, Your Highness,” she replied, feeling a similar unease at the formality between them.

Her heart ached at the distance the words created, even though she knew it was necessary.

It's all for the sake of the plot. Jina reminded herself, trying to shake off the discomfort.

She shifted slightly, testing her strength, and then asked, “How long have I been unconscious?”

Wang So stepped forward, his expression softening. “About seven hours,” he answered, his eyes reflecting his concern.

Shock flashed across Jina's face. “S…seven hours? What hour is it?”

“It's the hour of the Dog (7:00 PM to 9:00 PM),” Doo Na replied, her voice steady.

I need to hurry, or else Haejin-ssi won't be able to prevent that Soo-Wook moment.

Jina knew that moment was a crucial point in the drama and she was determined to help Haejin stop it at any cost.

With resolve, she stood up from the bed, her movements swift and purposeful.

“We need to leave for Prince Wook's residence immediately,” Jina instructed, looking at Doo Na and Yong with urgency in her eyes.

“You should stay for the night, Lady Jina,” Wang So suggested, stepping forward. His voice was gentle, but there was an unmistakable undertone of concern.

“It's already night, and you're not well. It'll be best to rest and leave in the morning,” he reasoned, swiftly hiding the depth of his worry behind a mask of calm.

“Prince So is correct,” Doo Na sided with So, her expression mirroring his concern.

She placed a reassuring hand on Jina's arm, her eyes pleading.

“You should stay for the night, Miss,” Yong too, tried to persuade Jina. His voice was steady, but there was a hint of anxiety.

“Our people have already retreated for the day and are resting in a nearby inn,” he informed, hoping the practical argument would convince her.

Jina looked between them, their concern palpable, but her determination unwavering. She knew the gravity of the situation and the importance of reaching Wook's residence on time.

Prince Junso, who too was an Awakened Character like Jina, understood why she was so eager to reach Wook's residence.

While he sympathized with the concerns of his fellow characters, who were simply worried for Jina's well-being, he also knew the consequences of failing in their tasks.

He stepped forward, his expression resolute.

“Lady Jina should leave,” Prince Junso said, earning mixed glances from Doo Na, Yong, and Wang So.

“We all know how capable Lady Jina is. This small collapse is nothing for her,” he replied, his tone firm and reassuring.

“Also, Wook's residence is barely thirty minutes away by foot. Fifteen, if you take a horse,” he added, glancing around the room to ensure everyone understood the urgency.

Jina stood tall, her resolve shining through her determined expression.

“The Second Prince is right. This collapse is not going to stop me,” she declared, her voice steady.

“Also, Gomo-nim (fraternal aunt) must be worried,” Jina gave them another reason for her quick departure.

“Yong-ah, arrange some horses. We are leaving for Prince Wook's residence.”

“Yes, Miss,” Yong bowed deeply and dashed out of the room, swiftly moving to execute Jina's command.

Jina turned to the princes, her expression softening with gratitude.

“Thank you, Your Highnesses, for looking after me when I collapsed,” she said sincerely, her voice carrying a warmth that reached out to them.

She first looked at Wang So, her eyes reflecting her appreciation for his concern and care.

Wang So gave a brief nod, his stern features softening for a moment.

“It's our duty to ensure your well-being, Lady Jina,” he replied, his tone formal yet gentle.

Then, Jina's gaze shifted to Wang Junso.

Her eyes met his, and for a brief moment, the room seemed to hold its breath.

She didn't need to speak; her eyes conveyed a depth of gratitude and affection that words could not capture. It was a silent conversation, filled with unspoken words and mutual understanding.

Wang Junso nodded subtly, acknowledging her silent thanks with a small, reassuring smile. He understood the weight of her gratitude, and the silent bond between them felt stronger than ever.

Jina gave a slight bow of her head, a final gesture of appreciation.

The princes watched her, each feeling a mixture of admiration and respect for the determined woman who stood before them.

Yong returned, slightly out of breath but with a determined look on his face. “The horses are ready, Miss,” he informed.

Jina nodded, acknowledging his efficiency. “Thank you, Yong-ah.”

She turned to the princes once more.

“We must take our leave now,” Jina said, her tone formal but tinged with the urgency of their mission.

The trio—Jina, Doo Na, and Yong—greeted the princes with respectful bows.

“Take care, Lady Jina,” Prince So said, his voice carrying a hint of concern.

Jina sensed something was off.

She knew that Wang So in the drama was cold and quite dangerous in the earlier episodes. His piercing gaze and ruthless demeanor made him a formidable presence to be around.

She recalled how he treated Soo, his female lead, with an almost chilling indifference, his harsh words often laced with a hidden edge.

Yet, his behaviour with Jina was quite the opposite.

She noticed the way his eyes softened when he looked at her, his tone became gentler, almost protective.

What is it about me that makes him act so differently? Jina thought, her mind racing.

As thoughts swirled in her mind, Jina couldn't help but feel a flicker of curiosity.

However, she quickly pushed those musings aside.

Right now, stopping the Soo-Wook moment was her top priority.

She couldn't afford to be distracted by personal mysteries, not when the plot was at such a crucial juncture.

I can't let myself get sidetracked. She reminded herself. I need to focus on keeping the story on its intended path. Soo and Wook can’t end up together.

Jina took a deep breath, steeling herself for the task ahead.

I’ll figure out why So’s different towards me later. Right now, I have a job to do.

Jina's eyes met Prince Junso’s one last time, a silent promise passing between them and she exited the room.

Yong escorted Jina, while Doo Na followed closely behind.

They mounted their horses, the night air crisp and filled with the scent of the earth.

Jina felt a surge of determination as she settled into the saddle.

The trio rode out, the sound of hooves thundering against the ground as they made their way to Prince Wook's residence.

The journey ahead was crucial, and Jina was determined to reach their destination on time.

🌼~🌼~🌼

In Wook's residence, Ha Jin shut herself in her room, trembling with fear.

The memory of the water engulfing her played repeatedly in her mind, convincing her that she had indeed died back in the 21st century.

The idea that Hae Soo would've also died in the water haunted her thoughts.

Then, am I Go Ha Jin, or am I Hae Soo? she wondered.

The room felt cold and unwelcoming, a stark contrast to the life she had known.

Ha Jin wrapped her arms around herself, seeking comfort in the small, enclosed space.

She decided to view this as a stroke of fortune and a new chance at life. It meant she ought to stick it out as Soo, to live in this body and this time.

Yet, the glaring reality of her situation was hard to ignore.

It was obvious that she wasn’t Soo, and the gaps in her knowledge about Goryeo were vast and troubling.

The constant knocks on the door by Chae Ryung only seemed to intensify Ha Jin's fear.

Her mind raced as she tried to recall any details about the era, but even the succession of kings eluded her as she wasn’t sure which king came after Taejo, and her guesses were wrong.

🌼~🌼~🌼

After fifteen minutes of galloping, Jina, Yong, and Doo Na found themselves in front of Prince Wook's residence.

The imposing structure loomed in the moonlight, its grand architecture casting long shadows across the courtyard.

The tall, intricately carved wooden gates stood as silent sentinels, a testament to the residence's nobility.

Lanterns hung from the eaves, their soft glow illuminating the path with a warm, flickering light.

Jina's horse snorted and pawed at the ground as she dismounted hurriedly.

Yong and Doo Na followed suit.

The urgency in Jina's eyes was unmistakable, a fire that burned with purpose.

“Welcome, Lady Jina.” A nearby-guard came forward, his voice steady and composed. “I'll inform Prince Wook about your arrival.”

Jina nodded her head in acknowledgement. The flickering light of the lanterns casted a warm glow on her determined expression.

She spotted a nearby servant, a young woman whose face reflected both surprise and curiosity at their sudden arrival.

“You there!” Jina called out, her voice a blend of authority and desperation. “Escort us to my aunt, Lady Hae, immediately.”

The servant, taken aback by her commanding tone, quickly composed herself and bowed deeply. “Yes, my lady. Please, follow me.”

As they made their way through the winding corridors of the residence, Jina's mind raced with thoughts of the impending moment she and Haejin had planned to prevent.

Her heart pounded in her chest, each beat a reminder of the time slipping away.

The five-minute walk felt like an eternity, and Jina finally reached near Hae Soo's room.

Her breath hitched as she took in the scene before her.

Her sixth fraternal aunt, Lady Hae, was leaning heavily against a pillar, her frail form shaking with violent coughs while Chae Ryung was standing nearby.

Just on time. Jina sighed internally.

“Gomo-nim!” She cried out, her voice filled with urgency as she rushed towards her.

Yong and Doo Na maintained their distance and stood near the pillar.

Jina wrapped a steadying arm around Lady Hae's shoulders, her touch gentle yet firm.

Lady Hae's coughing continued, each gasp for air a painful sound that echoed through the corridor.

“Buin!” Just then, Lady Hae's husband, the Eighth Prince Wang Wook, arrived. His robes billowing as he hurriedly rushed towards his sick wife.

No, I will not let that moment happen. Jina declared in her mind.

She bowed respectfully to the Eighth Prince, her movements swift and fluid as she removed her hand from her aunt's shoulder.

She stepped aside, allowing Prince Wook to take her place.

His hands immediately reached out to support Lady Hae, his touch tender yet strong.

“What is going on?” Prince Wook asked, his eyes darting to Chae Ryung for an explanation.

“It’s Miss Soo,” Chae Ryung replied, panicking.

“Hae Soo?” the prince questioned, a mix of confusion and concern crossing his features.

“She fell into the water and didn’t come out for two hours,” Lady Hae managed to say between pants, her breathing labored. “According to the doctor... she stopped breathing.”

“Then, are you saying Soo died?” Wook asked, his tone incredulous, a frown deepening on his forehead.

“She died and came back,” Chae Ryung informed, her eyes wide with fear. “Maybe that’s why she lost all her memories and doesn’t even know her name.”

“I’m worried that she will do something dangerous at this rate,” Lady Hae replied, her voice strained with anxiety.

Now's the chance!

“Your Highness, let me try to console Soo,” Jina suggested, her voice steady but urgent.

Prince Wook looked at Jina, his eyes reflecting a mixture of concern and trust.

He gave a slight nod, allowing Jina to proceed with her plan.

“Gomo-nim, I'll safely bring Soo out. Please return to your chamber and rest,” Jina tried to assure Lady Hae.

Lady Hae nodded and Jina turned to Chae Ryung and Doo Na, her expression softening.

“Chae Ryung-ah, Doo Na-ya, please stay with Gomo-nim and attend to her needs.”

Chae Ryung nodded, her eyes filled with concern for Lady Hae. “Yes, Miss Jina. I will stay by her side,” she replied.

“As you say, Miss,” Doo Na replied, bowing her head.

Turning back to Prince Wook, Jina said, “Your Highness, kindly stay with Gomo-nim. She needs your presence and support.”

Prince Wook looked at Lady Hae, his gaze heavy with worry.

After a moment, he decided to agree, “Very well. I will stay with her.”

He gently placed a hand on Lady Hae’s shoulder, offering her a comforting presence.

Chae Ryung, Wook, Doo Na and Lady Hae then began to move towards Lady Hae's chamber.

Once they were out of sight, Jina turned to Yong, her determination unmistakable in her eyes. “Yong-ah, come here.”

Yong nodded respectfully and approached Jina, his face set with concentration as he awaited her instructions.

Jina stepped infront of Soo's door and noticed it was locked from the inside.

“Break it down,” she ordered, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Yong swiftly moved to the door, his hands braced against the wood.

With a few powerful strikes, the door splintered and crashed open, sending one side crashing on the floor.

The sound reverberated through the corridor, a sharp contrast to the tense atmosphere.

“Leave us,” Jina instructed Yong, her voice softening as she addressed him.

Yong bowed his head in acknowledgment. “I’ll check on Lady Hae and return shortly,” he promised, his tone earnest.

Jina nodded resolutely.

As she watched Yong leave, she tapped her right ear, activating RealmLink.

Haejin-ssi, I've done my part.

“Yes! Lets…switch.” Haejin replied, clearly thrilled.

Jina snapped her fingers once, switching places with Haejin.

🌸 WON HAEJIN'S POV 🌸

“Yes! Let's…switch,” I replied, clearly thrilled.

My form started to fade, and the next moment, I was back in the narrative.

Let's do this!

My eyes fell on Hae Soo, who was sitting on the ground in front of the bed, her knees pressed tightly against her chest.

The room was dimly lit, casting long shadows that danced eerily around her trembling form.

Her rapid breathing was audible in the silence, each breath shaky and filled with fear.

Tears glistened in her eyes, expressing her overwhelming terror.

Don't be scared of me, female lead. I'm here to help you. I thought, my heart aching at her vulnerability.

I'm sure she's just following the plot, unknowingly of course.

“Hi,” I waved my hand and gave her a gentle smile, hoping it would reassure her.

But she averted her gaze, ducking her head low as if trying to make herself as small as possible, her shoulders quivering.

Maybe Wook's lines are the only ones that'll work on her. I wondered.

Wang Wook, just this once, let me steal—borrow your lines.

“Soo-ya, do not be afraid. I brought you to this place. So... I'll help you until the very end.” My voice was calm and steady, echoing the reassurance she desperately needed.

Hearing this, Hae Soo lifted her head slightly, her eyes meeting mine with a mixture of confusion and hope.

The soft light caught the tears on her cheeks, making them shimmer like tiny crystals.

You brought me to this place? I know you are thinking this.

I watched the drama so many times that I practically heard her inner monologue.

Continue, Haejin!

“Avoiding this will not change anything,” I smiled gently, trying to infuse my words with warmth and encouragement. “You have to be strong.”

Taking a step forward, I extended my right hand towards her, my heart pounding with determination.

The air between us seemed to crackle with the weight of the moment.

“Won't you trust me and come outside?” I asked softly, my hand steady and inviting.

Slowly, Soo raised her hand towards my extended hand, her fingers trembling as they inched closer.

When our hands finally met, a surge of relief washed over me.

Her touch was cold, but there was a spark of trust in her eyes.

While Wook might not have kept his promise. I swear to help you until the very end, Go Ha Jin.

🌼~🌼~🌼

The Transition Lounge was bathed in a warm, golden light, creating an inviting atmosphere.

The air was filled with the soft hum of music, blending perfectly with the laughter and clinking of glasses.

“To many more successful changes,” I said, raising my glass to Jina and clanking it with hers.

The sound rang out cheerfully, echoing our triumph and the camaraderie we shared.

Jina's eyes sparkled with excitement, her smile wide and genuine.

The table before us was laden with an assortment of snacks and drinks, a mix of modern and Goryeo-era delicacies, symbolizing our unique journey.

We toasted and laughed, savouring the sweet taste of victory and the promise of more adventures to come.

What I didn't realize was that new troubles were brewing in the narrative, lurking just beyond the joyous atmosphere of our celebration, waiting to disrupt our hard earned peace.