Flower of Vengeance

the serene melodies of traditional instruments playing in the background. The air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the promise of a prosperous year ahead. In the heart of this j

altered. The happiness she cherished would be tested by the dark forces that lurked just beyond the edge of her perfect world. As the evening descended, the estate glowed with the soft light of lanterns. The entire family gathered for dinner in the grand dining hall, the air filled with the rich aromas of a feast prepared with love and care. Lord Hae Jin presided at the head of the table, his eyes twinkling as he observed his family enjoying the meal. "This year's New Year's Eve celebration will be grander than ever," he announced, his voice carrying the weight of his authority. "We will invite our friends and allies to join us in welcoming the new year." The family responded with enthusiastic murmurs. Do Hwa, always considerate and kind-hearted, smiled at her husband before adding, "We should prepare extra food, not just for the celebration, but also for the poor. It is our tradition to share our blessings with those less fortunate." "An excellent suggestion," Lord Hae Jin agreed, nodding. "We will make sure that no one in our village goes hungry this New Year." Dinner continued with lively conversation and laughter, the bonds of family and tradition weaving a tapestry of warmth and joy. After the meal, Do Hwa gathered the children around the hearth, their faces lit by the dancing flames. "Let me tell you a story," she began, her voice melodic and soothing. "It's about a magical flower that can be both a poison and a cure." The children leaned in, their eyes wide with anticipation. Do Hwa spun her tale, describing a flower of unparalleled beauty that grew deep within the enchanted forest. Its petals shimmered in the moonlight, holding the power to heal the gravest wounds or to bring about the swiftest death, depending on how it was used. "The flower teaches us that power itself is not evil," she concluded, her eyes reflecting the flickering firelight. "It is how we choose to use it that matters." The children sat spellbound, their imaginations alight with the possibilities of such a flower. As the story ended, a sense of wonder lingered in the room, but weariness soon took over. One by one, they retired to their rooms, the day's activities having taken their toll. Mi-hyang lay in her bed, staring at the ceiling. Despite her fatigue, sleep eluded her. An inexplicable sense of unease gnawed a