NAM YONGDAM IS JOINING THE SOCIAL SEASON。 (open to collabs)
NAM, YONGDAM
"She's pretty enough...assuming you like that cold, judging you sort of countenance. Also trousers. What kind of lady wears trousers?"
— Ha Kwang, artist, freeloader, and pain in the arse
— Ha Kwang, artist, freeloader, and pain in the arse
FACECLAIM Binnie, Oh My Girl
BACK UP SinB, Gfriend
BACK UP SinB, Gfriend
WARDROBE In public, her mother ensures Yongdam is only ever seen in the prettiest dresses. Repeating patterns, aesthetically pleasing geometric type patterns, she, her mother, loves them. Despite her name and calling the daughters of the Count of Ganghwa "Nam's Three Flowers", floral patterns aren't common. (Examples of the patterns you might see: 1 2 3). Colorwise, she prefers neutrals over louder, more vibrant colors unless an occasion might require it. She wants her daughters to always be the image of purity. She does discern carefully any more "gaudy" accessories. She doesn't shine them in too many jewels or the like. Instead, she picks one or two very expensive pieces. One only need to look at these to know they are of noble rank and fortune.
Note this is all her mother. Yongdam doesn't have an eye for fashion. She goes along with it easily enough, but behind closed doors at the Count of Ganghwa County's home? Yongdam is wearing her older brother's old trousers, modified to fit her more comfortably along with old men's shirts. Odd? Certainly. But Lady Nam figured out early on that allowing this little bit of rebellion at home saved her headaches in public since Yongdam was a child. So Yongdam just does it out of habit now. These days its relegated to when she gardens in her families greenhouse and conservatory
"My sweet blossom, I know as a personal choice, trousers make sense when you are in the dirt. But please, for heaven's sake, do not wear them to greet guests."
Note this is all her mother. Yongdam doesn't have an eye for fashion. She goes along with it easily enough, but behind closed doors at the Count of Ganghwa County's home? Yongdam is wearing her older brother's old trousers, modified to fit her more comfortably along with old men's shirts. Odd? Certainly. But Lady Nam figured out early on that allowing this little bit of rebellion at home saved her headaches in public since Yongdam was a child. So Yongdam just does it out of habit now. These days its relegated to when she gardens in her families greenhouse and conservatory
"My sweet blossom, I know as a personal choice, trousers make sense when you are in the dirt. But please, for heaven's sake, do not wear them to greet guests."
"It's certainly not becoming of a lady to be a know-it-all. Her father may be amused by it, but I most certainly do not care about radishes and their value outside of our country."
— Lady Nam Youngja, Countess of Ganghwa and Yongdam's mother
— Lady Nam Youngja, Countess of Ganghwa and Yongdam's mother
PERSONALITY Introspective, Intelligent, Curious, Adventurous, and yet Dutiful, Realist/Pessimist, Opionated, but so, so conflicted, and surprisingly awkward despite her polite nature.
Any and all facts and learning are her bread and butter, her life's oxygen. Yongdam will talk your head off about random facts and information whether you like it or not. What are manners and polite society compared to sailing on oceans, reading new books, or meeting new cultures and societies? Had she not been a woman, she'd have been a second son and could have gone to see the world on a ship without a care. Ah yes, Yongdam dreams of such things. Perhaps it's the influence of her fathers many books: she'd gladly stay home buried in a pile of books by her father's desk than attend a soiree. Yongdam loves nothing more than a lively conversation of current events or really just anything not about her sewing or dancing or anything ladies should do that she is just so, so bad at.
Generally, Yongdam is lively and attentive when engaged. She is well aware of how to engage in most social siituations, even if she does not care for it. However, Yongdam is not entirely comfortable, and before long her pleasantries often lead to clumsy attempts at maintaining an elegant, ladylike image. Which she fails at. Be it dancing or trying to communicate with a fan, being demure and modest is hard for her. If she knows something to be the truth, you can expect her to speak it 9/10. But even words tempred in politeness, if not managed well, can come off as judgementa or rude, which Yongdam often finds she does inadvertently. It's less about being rude and simply not always reading the proper social cue. So sometimes, for Yongdam, it's easier to act cool and distant than chance the embarassment.
However, Yongdam is still a dutiful daughter, despite dreams of not being so tied to her status. Dutiful and loves her family, so she is constantly balancing being a good daughter and her personal desires. Why can't she just choose to not marry and instead find a patron so she can write and study? Share her findings with the world to help elucidate everyone from the wealthy to the poorest dock worker? Alas, her only lot in life should be to marry, and to marry well. She can't blame her mother's efforts to find her a match, nor can she be entirely happy about it. Yongdam finds herself in a constant, confused flux within her own mind. The heart wants to pack up what she can and run away to China or Thailand, maybe even to beyond te sea; but to do so would be shameful on her family...and she can't do that no matter how she wishes she could.
She wants to scream at others for their assumptions and reliance on sometimes archaic traditions, Yongdam is of a mindset that there is so much out in the world that to not be open and to be constricted by traditions that don't always benefit herself or others. She wants so much to be someone aside from what is expected of her...but she swallows her pride and has to think realisitcally...and accept what she is given.
Or so she thinks until a certain suitor comes around.
1 part Belle, 1 part Mary Bennett, 1 Part Eloise Bridgerton
Any and all facts and learning are her bread and butter, her life's oxygen. Yongdam will talk your head off about random facts and information whether you like it or not. What are manners and polite society compared to sailing on oceans, reading new books, or meeting new cultures and societies? Had she not been a woman, she'd have been a second son and could have gone to see the world on a ship without a care. Ah yes, Yongdam dreams of such things. Perhaps it's the influence of her fathers many books: she'd gladly stay home buried in a pile of books by her father's desk than attend a soiree. Yongdam loves nothing more than a lively conversation of current events or really just anything not about her sewing or dancing or anything ladies should do that she is just so, so bad at.
Generally, Yongdam is lively and attentive when engaged. She is well aware of how to engage in most social siituations, even if she does not care for it. However, Yongdam is not entirely comfortable, and before long her pleasantries often lead to clumsy attempts at maintaining an elegant, ladylike image. Which she fails at. Be it dancing or trying to communicate with a fan, being demure and modest is hard for her. If she knows something to be the truth, you can expect her to speak it 9/10. But even words tempred in politeness, if not managed well, can come off as judgementa or rude, which Yongdam often finds she does inadvertently. It's less about being rude and simply not always reading the proper social cue. So sometimes, for Yongdam, it's easier to act cool and distant than chance the embarassment.
However, Yongdam is still a dutiful daughter, despite dreams of not being so tied to her status. Dutiful and loves her family, so she is constantly balancing being a good daughter and her personal desires. Why can't she just choose to not marry and instead find a patron so she can write and study? Share her findings with the world to help elucidate everyone from the wealthy to the poorest dock worker? Alas, her only lot in life should be to marry, and to marry well. She can't blame her mother's efforts to find her a match, nor can she be entirely happy about it. Yongdam finds herself in a constant, confused flux within her own mind. The heart wants to pack up what she can and run away to China or Thailand, maybe even to beyond te sea; but to do so would be shameful on her family...and she can't do that no matter how she wishes she could.
She wants to scream at others for their assumptions and reliance on sometimes archaic traditions, Yongdam is of a mindset that there is so much out in the world that to not be open and to be constricted by traditions that don't always benefit herself or others. She wants so much to be someone aside from what is expected of her...but she swallows her pride and has to think realisitcally...and accept what she is given.
Or so she thinks until a certain suitor comes around.
1 part Belle, 1 part Mary Bennett, 1 Part Eloise Bridgerton
BACKGROUND Ganghwa county has seemingly always been blessed by good fortune and favor since the Nams have been in charge: well liked in court and social circles alike. Count Nam is a scholar and lord in that order. Ganghwa is a beautiful county and he oversees it to ensure it remains as such, but the count always fancied himself as a hobbyist scientist at the very least. Regardless, as a very learned man, he wasnted equally learned children. His son, while not as scholarly as his father, took to learning easily as did his youngest daughter. But in his eldest daughter, Yongdam, did th count find a compatriot in his quest for knowledge. Thus, Yongdam had a childhood of learning and education far more than some of her peers. Her mother would blame this sort of learning and entitlement to why Yongdam has failed in 2 seasons to find a husband.
Yongdam never took to sewing, music, or other things ladies were expected to excel out. She was a fantastic reader, a well mannered, polite, and lively conversationalist, but ask her to dance and she will fail. She can't hem a dress for anything and her piano skills are sub par at best. Yongdam did better at drawing, though painting was never her forte. Yongdam would rather be in her father's study, at an art exhibition, or in the garden or countryside over a ball or soiree. Aside from being slightly unconventional, Yongdam's life was uncomplicated until she was set to debut for her first season.
First Season: Yongdam gains the initial reputation as a polite, intelligent young lady who is lively in conversation. Wonderful! But then...dancing starts. Extended plesantries start. Playing to coy and demure noble lady, pure and charming, starts. Yongdam fails and inevitably drives away most potential suitors. She does not recieve any during her first season.
Second Season: Yongdam is growing restless and tired of the season as she has to once again try and find a husband. Her mother tries so hard, and even her father attempts to find her a match. But it's to no avail. That awkwardness she is so good at hiding during first impressions, that penchant for speaking too quickly, all the bruised and broken toes...well, it doesn't surprise her when she comes out of her second season a single woman still.
Third Season: Yongdam is dreading this. But the pressure is on. With her father's sickness, the reality of her being burden is too close. She has to try...but with her inner desires not aligning with expectations, Yongdam is dreading it all the same.
Yongdam never took to sewing, music, or other things ladies were expected to excel out. She was a fantastic reader, a well mannered, polite, and lively conversationalist, but ask her to dance and she will fail. She can't hem a dress for anything and her piano skills are sub par at best. Yongdam did better at drawing, though painting was never her forte. Yongdam would rather be in her father's study, at an art exhibition, or in the garden or countryside over a ball or soiree. Aside from being slightly unconventional, Yongdam's life was uncomplicated until she was set to debut for her first season.
First Season: Yongdam gains the initial reputation as a polite, intelligent young lady who is lively in conversation. Wonderful! But then...dancing starts. Extended plesantries start. Playing to coy and demure noble lady, pure and charming, starts. Yongdam fails and inevitably drives away most potential suitors. She does not recieve any during her first season.
Second Season: Yongdam is growing restless and tired of the season as she has to once again try and find a husband. Her mother tries so hard, and even her father attempts to find her a match. But it's to no avail. That awkwardness she is so good at hiding during first impressions, that penchant for speaking too quickly, all the bruised and broken toes...well, it doesn't surprise her when she comes out of her second season a single woman still.
Third Season: Yongdam is dreading this. But the pressure is on. With her father's sickness, the reality of her being burden is too close. She has to try...but with her inner desires not aligning with expectations, Yongdam is dreading it all the same.
TRIVIA
She doesn't paint, but her sketches are very detailed and accurate. But her subjects akew more towards scientific studies. She'll draw a rabbit she's seen out the window accurately, flowers by the stream, and so on. This is really the only artistic pursuit she is good at and enjoys.
Her name refers to a gentian flower, and she owns a hair pin with gentians on it. Her father commissioned them for each of his daughters after each flower they were named for.
Her handwriting is impecable. If only her dancing was the same. Someone with no feet would still probably dance better than Yongdam.
Also quite tone deaf. Cannot sing or play music at all.
Botany is her passion. If Yongdam could spend her entire day in their greenhouse and conservatory, or out in the country catergorizing and studying flora, she would. She has a small vegetable and herb garden that she insists she tend to, and not their servants. Unconventional, but no one in their home seems to mind really. Sans the trousers. Her mother hates those.
She is terribly fond of sweets. Its a quick way to her heart.
Is wary of horses. One kicked her as a child. It makes getting into carrages harrowing in her head each time.
Countess Nam has a dream her daughters will be like Lady Suji: beautiful, gentle, marry well...it's not uncommon for her to tell her daughters to be more like her...at least, until they are married.
She doesn't paint, but her sketches are very detailed and accurate. But her subjects akew more towards scientific studies. She'll draw a rabbit she's seen out the window accurately, flowers by the stream, and so on. This is really the only artistic pursuit she is good at and enjoys.
Her name refers to a gentian flower, and she owns a hair pin with gentians on it. Her father commissioned them for each of his daughters after each flower they were named for.
Her handwriting is impecable. If only her dancing was the same. Someone with no feet would still probably dance better than Yongdam.
Also quite tone deaf. Cannot sing or play music at all.
Botany is her passion. If Yongdam could spend her entire day in their greenhouse and conservatory, or out in the country catergorizing and studying flora, she would. She has a small vegetable and herb garden that she insists she tend to, and not their servants. Unconventional, but no one in their home seems to mind really. Sans the trousers. Her mother hates those.
She is terribly fond of sweets. Its a quick way to her heart.
Is wary of horses. One kicked her as a child. It makes getting into carrages harrowing in her head each time.
Countess Nam has a dream her daughters will be like Lady Suji: beautiful, gentle, marry well...it's not uncommon for her to tell her daughters to be more like her...at least, until they are married.
RELATIONSHIPS
"It's a terrible shame about Count Nam's first daughter. She's pretty enough and is pleasant in conversation. One has to wonder why she is yet to be married after 2 seasons already. It is surely not for lack of trying from what I see of her mother. And her little sister already receiving suitors? Tsk tsk."
— Queen Sujeong from Imperial House of Kim
— Queen Sujeong from Imperial House of Kim
Queen Sujeong / Imperial House of Kim / 5/10
— The Count of Ganghwa has some favor with the queen certainly. He is lively and engaging to speak with in court, as is his wife. When the countess was pregnant, Count Nam was expressing their frustration in naming their child, and it was Queen Sujeong who actually said upon remembering the Count's fondness of plants, "Why not after a flower? Surely giving your daughters such names could bring them some good fortune?" While the count and countess of Ganghwa enjoy favor with the queen, Yongdam herself is not nearly as close. Neutral is the most it is at this moment, though she is always told by her mother to never allow herself to appear dull, dumb, or dense around the queen. As such, Yongdam enjoys some recognition from her, and an appreciation that Yongdam is a polite young woman. Beyond that, Yongdam is moderately terrified of the queen: should she decide it so, her family could be out of favor so quickly.
— The Count of Ganghwa has some favor with the queen certainly. He is lively and engaging to speak with in court, as is his wife. When the countess was pregnant, Count Nam was expressing their frustration in naming their child, and it was Queen Sujeong who actually said upon remembering the Count's fondness of plants, "Why not after a flower? Surely giving your daughters such names could bring them some good fortune?" While the count and countess of Ganghwa enjoy favor with the queen, Yongdam herself is not nearly as close. Neutral is the most it is at this moment, though she is always told by her mother to never allow herself to appear dull, dumb, or dense around the queen. As such, Yongdam enjoys some recognition from her, and an appreciation that Yongdam is a polite young woman. Beyond that, Yongdam is moderately terrified of the queen: should she decide it so, her family could be out of favor so quickly.
Count and Countess Nam / House of Nam /Parents / 10/10
— Hongdo and Youngja are extraordinarily active and present in their children's lives. They are known for their warm natures, and still very clearly in love with each other.
Yongdo fancies himself more of a scholar than noble, and his vast library and conservatory on his property speak to this. The house of Nam often hosts travellers and scholars from all over, delighting in their luncheons where conversation and science and adventure are the key topics in discussion. Beyond that, they are a kind and compassionate couple, and it's well known they do not quarrel or feud with other families often if at all.
Whereas Hongdo is the slightly chatty scholar, Youngja is the more business and formal minded one. Oh she can talk your ear off, but she is better at the more social engagements and expectations. If you compare the two, at first impression you might think Youngja is too preoccupied with having her daughters married and keeping appearances. To her credit, she is just very aware of how this game in the ton works, and also so, so aware of what women have been dealt in their lives. She was firtunate in her arranged marriage to Hongdo that they became a loving, to this day, husband and wife. So as much as you may see Youngja pushing her daughters to a lord when she can...you best believe she is shrewd and calculating in her judgement of said man's character.
Both of them love their children dearly, and will fight tooth and nail for them. Sadly, the count's health has been poor lately, and while they don't expect it to be death's door any time soon, his weakness has further pushed the family to marry and/or be prepared for the future.
Yongdo fancies himself more of a scholar than noble, and his vast library and conservatory on his property speak to this. The house of Nam often hosts travellers and scholars from all over, delighting in their luncheons where conversation and science and adventure are the key topics in discussion. Beyond that, they are a kind and compassionate couple, and it's well known they do not quarrel or feud with other families often if at all.
Whereas Hongdo is the slightly chatty scholar, Youngja is the more business and formal minded one. Oh she can talk your ear off, but she is better at the more social engagements and expectations. If you compare the two, at first impression you might think Youngja is too preoccupied with having her daughters married and keeping appearances. To her credit, she is just very aware of how this game in the ton works, and also so, so aware of what women have been dealt in their lives. She was firtunate in her arranged marriage to Hongdo that they became a loving, to this day, husband and wife. So as much as you may see Youngja pushing her daughters to a lord when she can...you best believe she is shrewd and calculating in her judgement of said man's character.
Both of them love their children dearly, and will fight tooth and nail for them. Sadly, the count's health has been poor lately, and while they don't expect it to be death's door any time soon, his weakness has further pushed the family to marry and/or be prepared for the future.
Nam Muyeol / House of Nam / Older Brother / 9/10
— Muyeol is not a scholar, but he would do well as a soldier or similar if he'd been of lower rank. Alas, he is to be the next Count of Ganghwa, so he makes do with what he has by learning the politics of the nobility and running a county. If you were to actually ask he he resembles in personality more, it is very clear he is like his mother. He is currently courting a viscount's daughter across the country, and thus spends a lot of time there trying to finalize his proposal to her. Yongdam and Muyeol don't see each other as much these days, but they write long, affectionate correspondence to each other frequently. He has tried in the past to match his sister with noble men he was acquainted with, but in his eye, none were ever quite right for her. Muyeol doesn't want his sister in loveless marriage, and is just as discrening as his mother when it comes to matches. Maybe a bit too much, especially when he rushes home to meet and greet potential suitor Eo Sunsin...who he instantly thinks is not suitable. Oh boy.
Nam Gukhwa / House of Nam / Younger Sister / 7/10
— Oh how opposite Gukhwa is to Yongdam. Bright, cheerful, and ever so sociable, she is already catching the eye of possible suitors even before her official debut this year. While she and Yongdam aren't always seeing eye to eye, she appreciates her sister and really just wants her to be happy. Gukhwa and Yongdam are very close, and Gukhwa always tries to point potential suitors at Yongdam first if she can. She feels bad for her sister.
tldr of the Nam family: very loving and warm despite the expectations of society they must follow. Yongdam loves them dearly.
Collabs~
tldr of the Nam family: very loving and warm despite the expectations of society they must follow. Yongdam loves them dearly.
Collabs~
Jung Byul / House of Jung / Long time friend and confidante / 8/10
— Meeting years before either joined the season, they've been opposites while at the same time seemingly able to read the other's mind with ease. Despite their differences, you can often find the pair outside getting 'air" during balls when they just need a moment away from each other. Their letters to each other are lively and entertaining, with both often going on and on on topics the ther probably doesn't care about, but still read with apt attention anyways for the value the words of their friend.
Jeon Yoonhak / House of Jeon/ Long time friend and confidante's paramore? / 3/10 > later closer to 6
— To say Yongdam had reservations about Yeonhak is an understatement. 1. He took her "air' partner, so when she doesn't have Sunsin or Kijo, she is often left alone. Also, she is just not certain that Yeonhak is good for Byul. She loves her friend and wants to see her happy, so seeing he with him worries her. Perhaps as her own situation changes and she opens up more, they may develop more understanding s Yongdam sees he makes Byul happy. And maybe he'll appreciate her support in their endeavors.
Su Kijo / Knight of Eo/ Sunsin's knight and future friend/ 8/10
— Meeting with Kijo through Sunsin at first was, as usual with Yongdam, awkward and a little strained. It is not in their nature to be the warmest, most welcoming to new comers, so theirs is a slowburn until one day they realize that while Sunsin humors Yongdam's long winded intellectual tirades, Kijo actually appears interested and vested in the knowledge she gives. From there, they basically form the "logic" line of their household/future household with Sunsin. It's nice for Yongdam to have someone to relate to on a more mutual level, and she hopes the feeling it mutual with Kijo.
EO, SUNSIN
"Foppish Lord of the Dandies, I say."
"Hongdo!"
"Hongdo!"
— Count and Countess Nam of Ganghwa
"What critical flaw has kept you want of a wife? You have title and lineage, Lord Eo. Forgive my forwardness, but I am to trust you with one of my daughters, and I cannot discern your character as of yet."
— Count Nam Hongdo of Ganghwa
— Count Nam Hongdo of Ganghwa
"I'd never met another person so ready and able to laugh and smile at what should have been a disaster. I'm sure he'd be even more entertained that it remained part of the gossip for weeks after."
— Nam Yongdam
— Nam Yongdam
THEIR STORY It was another country ball. Arguably, Yongdam appreciates country balls and what they offer: socializing, food, drinks. Aside from the dancing. How Yongdam detests dancing. She's already bad kicked some poor viscount's shin earlier (poor man was still limping a little as he tried to put on a smile and dance on with some other lucky girl). After that, and she's sure her grim expression doesn't help in this, Yongdam has been sitting silently watching others enjoy the festivities. This was fine for her she supposed. She's definitely not trying to keep the despair and guilt in her gut swallow her up as she watches her sister dance the night away while catching her mother's worried glances her way. No, she must appear as though she is not thinking of how should her father get sicker, who will ensure she is cared for when she cannot just go out and do it herself-
Yongdam is not prepared when someone suddenly asked her to dance. She doesn't know him, but he introduces himself as Lord Eo Sunsin and asks her to dance. Despite herself, Yongdam accepts, seeing both her mother and sister staring in astonishment. And bless Lord Eo's heart, she is terrible. She must step on his toes so many times in just the first few steps. Yongdam can feel eyes on her, and she wants to hide, laughing at how absurd she must be making them look-
But then, Sunsin is telling her the right cue. He ceaselessy reminds her what the next step should be. But most importantly: he's smiling and laughing. Not at her: WITH her. Feeling at ease immediately, Yongdam just stops worrying. For a few perfect moments, Yongdam is laughing along with him at her missteps, as he has to somehow divert them from running right into another couple. They look absolutely chaotic and ridiculous, but for Yongdam it's the best dance she has ever had. She can't recall the last time she'd had so much fun! at a ball. They part after, Yongdam thanking him.
It's not until she's back with her mother and sister that she discovered Sunsin was the Duke of Jeolla.
And it shocks everyone even more when he calls on her the next day.
From there its flowers sent to her and her mother and sister. A promenade follows next, and then at another ball he asks her again to dance with him, yet again teaching her even when she steps on his toes.
Yongdam can't remember having so much fun while out in society. She was enjoying the duke's company. He was never stuffy or overbearing, never made her feel like she was doing something wrong, he just made her laugh and just feel comfortable...and happy. They'd walk and just talk about...really anything. He listens when she talks about adventures and dreams of maybe being more than just a noble's wife, even if it's not realistic. Sunsin never makes her feel silly for sharing these thoughts. Even her "hobbies" like botany aren't dismissed. She even finds her becoming friendly with his bodygaurd, Kijo, who more often than not listens and learns from her than even Sunsin. Her mother and sister are estatic. Her brother and father? Eh...a little less so since honestly, Sunsin wasn't what they expected in a possible suitor for their first daughter/sister, but they'll come around. Her sister and mother are expecting a proposal at any moment!
And Yongdam? Well...it doesn't feel...romantic to her honestly. She wants the feelings to be there, but what can she do when she looks at Sunsin and sees a soulmate in some ways, but not really a husband? Everything she could want in a suitor: respectful of her sentiments and time, considerate of her awkwardness and dislike of the more formal affairs, a handsome man with wealth and title? Why isn't she head over heels right now? But if anything, Yongdam is a pragmatist. With her father sick and her options limited, why should she not want to marry someone who is steadily becoming her best friend? Sunsin is literally perfect for her.
So when the proposal does come, she says yes, very happily. This would be th start of something new in her life with someone she cares for very much.
And then one day after their engagement, she finds Sunsin and Kijo together. Not just as close friends...but in a way she knows two men aren't expected to be. Intimate. She rushes home, feeling everything all at once and her heart breaks.
The cat's out of the bag and Yongdam's mind is in chaos. She feels first betrayal, then a brief moment of anger, then sadness. Why ask her to marry him? Why lead her on as if this marriage was to mean something? Was she being used? All these questions run through her mind and she is heartbroken and angry...but once those fade, which happens fairly quickly to her surprise, Yongdam comes to a conclusion: this isn't as bad as some might think. Yongdam trusts Sunsin enough to not think he was merely using her the entire time. She cares enough to at least hear what he has to say about their predicament.
And she does. With that, Yongdam comes to a final decision on the matter,
Why shouldn't she marry Sunsin anyways and they both get what they want? She helps him, he helps her, she ensures someone she truly cares about is set for life and she is not in a loveless marriage. Marriage is a construct afterall: they will make it what they want it to be. The hard part will be navigating that and ensuring she and her "husband" are not discovered. Navigating the social arena is going to be a whole new challenge...
Not helped at all once Ha Kwang enters the picture.
Yongdam is not prepared when someone suddenly asked her to dance. She doesn't know him, but he introduces himself as Lord Eo Sunsin and asks her to dance. Despite herself, Yongdam accepts, seeing both her mother and sister staring in astonishment. And bless Lord Eo's heart, she is terrible. She must step on his toes so many times in just the first few steps. Yongdam can feel eyes on her, and she wants to hide, laughing at how absurd she must be making them look-
But then, Sunsin is telling her the right cue. He ceaselessy reminds her what the next step should be. But most importantly: he's smiling and laughing. Not at her: WITH her. Feeling at ease immediately, Yongdam just stops worrying. For a few perfect moments, Yongdam is laughing along with him at her missteps, as he has to somehow divert them from running right into another couple. They look absolutely chaotic and ridiculous, but for Yongdam it's the best dance she has ever had. She can't recall the last time she'd had so much fun! at a ball. They part after, Yongdam thanking him.
It's not until she's back with her mother and sister that she discovered Sunsin was the Duke of Jeolla.
And it shocks everyone even more when he calls on her the next day.
From there its flowers sent to her and her mother and sister. A promenade follows next, and then at another ball he asks her again to dance with him, yet again teaching her even when she steps on his toes.
Yongdam can't remember having so much fun while out in society. She was enjoying the duke's company. He was never stuffy or overbearing, never made her feel like she was doing something wrong, he just made her laugh and just feel comfortable...and happy. They'd walk and just talk about...really anything. He listens when she talks about adventures and dreams of maybe being more than just a noble's wife, even if it's not realistic. Sunsin never makes her feel silly for sharing these thoughts. Even her "hobbies" like botany aren't dismissed. She even finds her becoming friendly with his bodygaurd, Kijo, who more often than not listens and learns from her than even Sunsin. Her mother and sister are estatic. Her brother and father? Eh...a little less so since honestly, Sunsin wasn't what they expected in a possible suitor for their first daughter/sister, but they'll come around. Her sister and mother are expecting a proposal at any moment!
And Yongdam? Well...it doesn't feel...romantic to her honestly. She wants the feelings to be there, but what can she do when she looks at Sunsin and sees a soulmate in some ways, but not really a husband? Everything she could want in a suitor: respectful of her sentiments and time, considerate of her awkwardness and dislike of the more formal affairs, a handsome man with wealth and title? Why isn't she head over heels right now? But if anything, Yongdam is a pragmatist. With her father sick and her options limited, why should she not want to marry someone who is steadily becoming her best friend? Sunsin is literally perfect for her.
So when the proposal does come, she says yes, very happily. This would be th start of something new in her life with someone she cares for very much.
And then one day after their engagement, she finds Sunsin and Kijo together. Not just as close friends...but in a way she knows two men aren't expected to be. Intimate. She rushes home, feeling everything all at once and her heart breaks.
The cat's out of the bag and Yongdam's mind is in chaos. She feels first betrayal, then a brief moment of anger, then sadness. Why ask her to marry him? Why lead her on as if this marriage was to mean something? Was she being used? All these questions run through her mind and she is heartbroken and angry...but once those fade, which happens fairly quickly to her surprise, Yongdam comes to a conclusion: this isn't as bad as some might think. Yongdam trusts Sunsin enough to not think he was merely using her the entire time. She cares enough to at least hear what he has to say about their predicament.
And she does. With that, Yongdam comes to a final decision on the matter,
Why shouldn't she marry Sunsin anyways and they both get what they want? She helps him, he helps her, she ensures someone she truly cares about is set for life and she is not in a loveless marriage. Marriage is a construct afterall: they will make it what they want it to be. The hard part will be navigating that and ensuring she and her "husband" are not discovered. Navigating the social arena is going to be a whole new challenge...
Not helped at all once Ha Kwang enters the picture.
Ha, Kwang
"Ha Kwang is one of those fellows who cleans up real nice. The trouble is that he knows it and still doesn't care.I'd find it charming if he had anything else to his name aside from a pretty picture."
— Nam Maehwa, daughter of Count Nam of Ganghwa
FACECLAIM Shinwon, Pentagon
BACK UP Harin, Onewe
BACK UP Harin, Onewe
APPEARANCE Tall of broader shouldered sort but still the sort of slender that makes you know he doesn't do hard work hard work for a living. Kwang's hair usually hangs about his face without a care. That's just the general aura around Kwang: carefree and lofty.
WARDROBE Thrifty and uncomplicated. Kwang rarely worries about cost or who made an article of clothing. And to be perfectly fair, he rarely has his own means of buying the most tailored clothing until he is taken on by a noble family for his art. His simple roots are present with simple clothing one might find any young man having. When he does dress for te occasion, there is always something quite atrocious on him pattern or color though. He could be wearing the darkest of suit only to have a checked tie or floral lining on his jacket.
"You're a lot more tolerable than you give yourself credit for, Mr. Ha. I daresay your eccentricities are...rather endearing."
— Nam Yongdam
— Nam Yongdam
PERSONALITY Eccentric, Spirited, Humorous, Passionate, Romantic, Rather Dramatic really, Sensitive, Creative, Flighty, Airy, yet suprisingly savvy
Here, and there, and maybe over there, Kwang is the sort to use the most flowery of words, the most descriptive of adjectives for something as simple as breakfast. Prone to random tangents and whims, it's no surprise that Kwang is a wanderer and rarely stays put for very long. His flights of fancy run deep and far, so one can never quite know what to expect from him. It's all part of his mystique of you ask him! Some might find his moments of randomness charming, while others are out off. But at least you can't say Kwang is boring by any means. He has big dreams and is not one to ignore those when he can help it.
And how he loves social situations and people. If he can be the center of attention, he will be. Give him a chance to talk to others and he will do so for hours tirelessly. He thouroughly enjoys making the people around him laugh, appreciating the positive feedback this gives him. Kwang has learned one thing that has kept him in popular society: how to navigate social norms and how to get away with it despite his low bith. Snappy with comebacks and banter, taling with Kwang is yet again, never boring. When Kwang speaks, he engages with you as if you were the single most important person at that moment. He tends to know more than he lets on, but it's all part of the game: play it well, and he may have another patron to support his artistic endeavors.
This all stems from a deep well fo emotions Kwang is drawing from. His art is beautiful because he pours his everything into it. And that's how he lives his life. As frivolous as he seems at times, Kwang once dedicated is all in 100 percent. He was never one to swallow emotions as if they don't exist and to forget about them. His emotional well runs deep, and he does take offense rather easily with hurt feelings to boot. He wants positive attention, but negative attention hurts him terribly. To be disliked is one thing he hates more than anything.
However, he is prone to being over dramatic...to the point that you would think him losing his one of many brushes was a world ending catastrophe. He will go on and on about what woes him, arms moving for emphasis, and then he's convinced himself the world shall end thusly because of said paint brush-oh nevermind, he found it. All is well again! Kwang is a character.
Here, and there, and maybe over there, Kwang is the sort to use the most flowery of words, the most descriptive of adjectives for something as simple as breakfast. Prone to random tangents and whims, it's no surprise that Kwang is a wanderer and rarely stays put for very long. His flights of fancy run deep and far, so one can never quite know what to expect from him. It's all part of his mystique of you ask him! Some might find his moments of randomness charming, while others are out off. But at least you can't say Kwang is boring by any means. He has big dreams and is not one to ignore those when he can help it.
And how he loves social situations and people. If he can be the center of attention, he will be. Give him a chance to talk to others and he will do so for hours tirelessly. He thouroughly enjoys making the people around him laugh, appreciating the positive feedback this gives him. Kwang has learned one thing that has kept him in popular society: how to navigate social norms and how to get away with it despite his low bith. Snappy with comebacks and banter, taling with Kwang is yet again, never boring. When Kwang speaks, he engages with you as if you were the single most important person at that moment. He tends to know more than he lets on, but it's all part of the game: play it well, and he may have another patron to support his artistic endeavors.
This all stems from a deep well fo emotions Kwang is drawing from. His art is beautiful because he pours his everything into it. And that's how he lives his life. As frivolous as he seems at times, Kwang once dedicated is all in 100 percent. He was never one to swallow emotions as if they don't exist and to forget about them. His emotional well runs deep, and he does take offense rather easily with hurt feelings to boot. He wants positive attention, but negative attention hurts him terribly. To be disliked is one thing he hates more than anything.
However, he is prone to being over dramatic...to the point that you would think him losing his one of many brushes was a world ending catastrophe. He will go on and on about what woes him, arms moving for emphasis, and then he's convinced himself the world shall end thusly because of said paint brush-oh nevermind, he found it. All is well again! Kwang is a character.
BACKGROUND Son of fishermen and dock workers from Jeju, Kwang had always hated the smell of fish guts on his parents hands and clothing after a long day at work. He never felt like he fit in amongst the men of the sea all around him, nor the farmers and their orchards. He never felt at home in Jeju, and was the thorn in his family's side most of his young life. They meant well: they wanted him to be a hard worker, and sometimes just didn't understand him. Kwang craved something beyond the menial life he was clearly not suited for. So at a young age, he took wha little he saved, stowed aboard a ship, and made for mainland to find his way beyond Jeju and fisherman life.
Fortunately, Kwang will tell you he is blessed or just extraordinaly lucky. How many othe poor, common sons of a fisherman can say they somehow managed to impress one Lord Yeo, an aged bachelor viscount and artist with no sons or direct heir? So into his household he goes, as unconventional as it could be, and Lord Yeo teaches Kwang all about art, manners, nobility, and everything Kwang had been wanting and was lacking back in his home.
Fast forward and Yeo has passed on, his estate separated to his relatives. A suitable amount was bequeathed to Kwang and he began his journey of becoming the well known young upstart of a painter and travelling house guest he is today. He does send monies home to his parents when he can, but otherwise he is living a free and good life now. He is quite talented in still life and portraits, and tells some of the bst stories. Whether they are true or not, it does not matter. You just want to sit and be entertained by him.
He is certainly not a lord, but if the ton is interested in him enough to keep him in work and comfort? Well then, all the better for Kwang. So he lives a life mving from home to home, sometimes staying at local inns and taverns when he is between jobs, and even sometimes hosting small showings of his art. Ladies seem to love him, so he is never lonely, and men don't seem particularly threatened by him. Kwang knows how to play the delicate game of being interesitng enough to be kept around but not to step on his patrons toes. Angry nobility is something he doesn't need.
Then he gets a job with the Lord of Ganghwa County and damn...his easy free life just gets too complicated. After thinking these lords and ladies are just stuffy, mostly predictable creatures, he meets a dirt covered girl and now everything is complicated.
Fortunately, Kwang will tell you he is blessed or just extraordinaly lucky. How many othe poor, common sons of a fisherman can say they somehow managed to impress one Lord Yeo, an aged bachelor viscount and artist with no sons or direct heir? So into his household he goes, as unconventional as it could be, and Lord Yeo teaches Kwang all about art, manners, nobility, and everything Kwang had been wanting and was lacking back in his home.
Fast forward and Yeo has passed on, his estate separated to his relatives. A suitable amount was bequeathed to Kwang and he began his journey of becoming the well known young upstart of a painter and travelling house guest he is today. He does send monies home to his parents when he can, but otherwise he is living a free and good life now. He is quite talented in still life and portraits, and tells some of the bst stories. Whether they are true or not, it does not matter. You just want to sit and be entertained by him.
He is certainly not a lord, but if the ton is interested in him enough to keep him in work and comfort? Well then, all the better for Kwang. So he lives a life mving from home to home, sometimes staying at local inns and taverns when he is between jobs, and even sometimes hosting small showings of his art. Ladies seem to love him, so he is never lonely, and men don't seem particularly threatened by him. Kwang knows how to play the delicate game of being interesitng enough to be kept around but not to step on his patrons toes. Angry nobility is something he doesn't need.
Then he gets a job with the Lord of Ganghwa County and damn...his easy free life just gets too complicated. After thinking these lords and ladies are just stuffy, mostly predictable creatures, he meets a dirt covered girl and now everything is complicated.
TRIVIA
Absolute emotes with his hands and arms as much as his face. His stories are full of flourishes, his moods are accentuated with waves of his hands, and no he doesn't always realizes he does it since it gets worse when he's nervous.
Has never just used a woman for a one and done thing. He at least romances them a little or buys them dinner thank you very much. Both parties are aware it won't be long term: he respects humans enough to not be cruel.
Is an amazing dancer despite his poor background. Thank you Lord Yeo.
Kwang is well versed in manners. He knows how far he can push something before its outright rude or out of propriety. It's how he's kept himself out of trouble.
Definitely a lover, not a fighter. He's been challenged to duel once...and thank goodness the fool's gun was lost in a pond...not that Kwang had ANYTHING to do with that.
Absolute emotes with his hands and arms as much as his face. His stories are full of flourishes, his moods are accentuated with waves of his hands, and no he doesn't always realizes he does it since it gets worse when he's nervous.
Has never just used a woman for a one and done thing. He at least romances them a little or buys them dinner thank you very much. Both parties are aware it won't be long term: he respects humans enough to not be cruel.
Is an amazing dancer despite his poor background. Thank you Lord Yeo.
Kwang is well versed in manners. He knows how far he can push something before its outright rude or out of propriety. It's how he's kept himself out of trouble.
Definitely a lover, not a fighter. He's been challenged to duel once...and thank goodness the fool's gun was lost in a pond...not that Kwang had ANYTHING to do with that.
"Freeloading, infuriating, pain in the-pardon me, I didn't realize someone could hear me."
— Nam Yongdam
— Nam Yongdam
THEIR STORY What started as a job turns into a slight obsession with one Lady Nam Yongdam.
Ha Kwang has been steadily building a name for himself amongst the nobility in Korea. His portraits and still lifes are all the rage and it's not uncommon for him to be invited to parties and soirees despite his low birth because having a portrait by him is considered trendy and peak fashion. Kwang eats this all up. He basically gets to live like a minor celebrity without all the drama of being some lord worried about his lineage or some other annoying expectation. He finds a patron who usually take him on for a half year to a year at a time. Kwang is known to be a lively houseguest, if a bit odd at times.
That's how he found himself at the Count of Ganghwa's home for the last month. The Count hd commissioned him to paint individual portraits of each of his family, culminating in a family portrait to be completed befoe end of the season. And if there was a marriage for his eldest daughter or maybe his son by then? The Count would recommend him for that portrait as well.
Unfortunately for Kwang, he one day finds himself in front of a dirt covered Yongdam in men's trousers, hair looking frazzled and unkempt. This was not the young woman that had been sitting for him this last week for her portrait. That woman was cold, judging his choices in colors and attempts as small talk about her upcoming season. That Yongdam is exactly what he expected a boring "lady" to be. This woman covered in dirt in front of him, so proud of a onion bulb in her hand, smiling so freely however...
Kwang feels his heart flutter and he already knows he's in for trouble.
On Yongdam's end, when Kwang arrives at their home, she is put off with how freely he just...fits into their household. Her father enjoys his company, and aside from being his patron, the Count honestly treats Kwang more like a companion. Yongdam simply does not like how it feels like this Mr. Ha is taking advantage of her father nad his love of this man's long winded stories. Ha Kwang also insists on asking her personal questions, ones she;d rather not answer. Had Yongdam not be indignant at this "artist" taking her father's favor from her (which she denies is her being jealous), she'd have realized he was just trying to get to know her and be friendly.
And then he catches her one early morning in her garden and...Yongdam feels like she might die from embarassment.
But Kwang doesn't pass judgement on her, nor does he bring it up maliciously. Instead, he's asking her about what she's doing, what about working in the dirt is so appealing, and so forth. Once bland conversations during her sittings now have changed to lively discussions on his travels, her dreams, and hopes for the future. He even encounters her at a art show or dinner from time to time, and finally convinces her it would be okay for him to maybe join her occasionally in the garden.
Ha Kwang has been steadily building a name for himself amongst the nobility in Korea. His portraits and still lifes are all the rage and it's not uncommon for him to be invited to parties and soirees despite his low birth because having a portrait by him is considered trendy and peak fashion. Kwang eats this all up. He basically gets to live like a minor celebrity without all the drama of being some lord worried about his lineage or some other annoying expectation. He finds a patron who usually take him on for a half year to a year at a time. Kwang is known to be a lively houseguest, if a bit odd at times.
That's how he found himself at the Count of Ganghwa's home for the last month. The Count hd commissioned him to paint individual portraits of each of his family, culminating in a family portrait to be completed befoe end of the season. And if there was a marriage for his eldest daughter or maybe his son by then? The Count would recommend him for that portrait as well.
Unfortunately for Kwang, he one day finds himself in front of a dirt covered Yongdam in men's trousers, hair looking frazzled and unkempt. This was not the young woman that had been sitting for him this last week for her portrait. That woman was cold, judging his choices in colors and attempts as small talk about her upcoming season. That Yongdam is exactly what he expected a boring "lady" to be. This woman covered in dirt in front of him, so proud of a onion bulb in her hand, smiling so freely however...
Kwang feels his heart flutter and he already knows he's in for trouble.
On Yongdam's end, when Kwang arrives at their home, she is put off with how freely he just...fits into their household. Her father enjoys his company, and aside from being his patron, the Count honestly treats Kwang more like a companion. Yongdam simply does not like how it feels like this Mr. Ha is taking advantage of her father nad his love of this man's long winded stories. Ha Kwang also insists on asking her personal questions, ones she;d rather not answer. Had Yongdam not be indignant at this "artist" taking her father's favor from her (which she denies is her being jealous), she'd have realized he was just trying to get to know her and be friendly.
And then he catches her one early morning in her garden and...Yongdam feels like she might die from embarassment.
But Kwang doesn't pass judgement on her, nor does he bring it up maliciously. Instead, he's asking her about what she's doing, what about working in the dirt is so appealing, and so forth. Once bland conversations during her sittings now have changed to lively discussions on his travels, her dreams, and hopes for the future. He even encounters her at a art show or dinner from time to time, and finally convinces her it would be okay for him to maybe join her occasionally in the garden.
Poor Mr. Ha is smitten by her...and is tormented he can't ever act on his emotions because of propriety and his status, lest he ruin her. But he can't help himself, and instead carries on with their conversations, and even flirts with her in as subtle a manner as he can while she sits with him for her portrait. Unknown to him, Yongdam has begun to see him in a more romantic sense as well, though she does not realize it quite yet. They chat, smile, and essentially flirt every time they are together even if she doesn't wuite realize she's reciprocating. Kwang is convinced he could remain like this with her forever...
...and then Yongdam is engaged to be married.
He can't do this anymore. He can't pine after a soon to be married woman, a woman he can never have or be with...so he quickly finishes her portrait and takes his leave without telling her good bye. Yongdam is still realing from her own revelations *see Sunsin and Kijo*, so his sudden disappearance on her hurts her more than she lets on. In the revelation of Sunsin and Kijo, Yongdam has opened her eyes a bit more and realizes she's harbored some love for Kwang for some time now. But much like her marriage, it is not to be as she would have hoped initially.
Nursing his own broken heart, he needs new work or a patron. Fortunately, Count Nam reccomends him to another patron, Lord Eo, the Duke of Jeolla. It never occurs to him that Sunsin is Yongdam's bethrothed until he arrives to work. Kwang is ready to move on with life...until he realizes he wont be escaping the love of his life so easily.
And then Yongdam is there and then its all starting again. He tries so hard to fight his feelings. In the end, Kwang knows he'd follow Yongdam wherever she may go if she is willing to have him...even if it means just being the eccentric artist Lord Eo supports. But now it's navigating this complex love quad that he doesn't even realizes exists, and if he gets the girl, how do they keep it under wraps?
"I must be the moth to Yongdam's flame: forever circling and wanting to get close. But if I come too close, I shall burn in an inconsequential burst of firey death. I can not escape her even when I tried. I am doomed to this fate...and yet I would follow this love of mine to the fiery pits of hell if it meant being graced by her smile even moments! Cursed is my fate! I shall love no other!" - Overdramatic Kwang is overdramatic.
...and then Yongdam is engaged to be married.
He can't do this anymore. He can't pine after a soon to be married woman, a woman he can never have or be with...so he quickly finishes her portrait and takes his leave without telling her good bye. Yongdam is still realing from her own revelations *see Sunsin and Kijo*, so his sudden disappearance on her hurts her more than she lets on. In the revelation of Sunsin and Kijo, Yongdam has opened her eyes a bit more and realizes she's harbored some love for Kwang for some time now. But much like her marriage, it is not to be as she would have hoped initially.
Nursing his own broken heart, he needs new work or a patron. Fortunately, Count Nam reccomends him to another patron, Lord Eo, the Duke of Jeolla. It never occurs to him that Sunsin is Yongdam's bethrothed until he arrives to work. Kwang is ready to move on with life...until he realizes he wont be escaping the love of his life so easily.
And then Yongdam is there and then its all starting again. He tries so hard to fight his feelings. In the end, Kwang knows he'd follow Yongdam wherever she may go if she is willing to have him...even if it means just being the eccentric artist Lord Eo supports. But now it's navigating this complex love quad that he doesn't even realizes exists, and if he gets the girl, how do they keep it under wraps?
"I must be the moth to Yongdam's flame: forever circling and wanting to get close. But if I come too close, I shall burn in an inconsequential burst of firey death. I can not escape her even when I tried. I am doomed to this fate...and yet I would follow this love of mine to the fiery pits of hell if it meant being graced by her smile even moments! Cursed is my fate! I shall love no other!" - Overdramatic Kwang is overdramatic.
...
HI, I'm Hani~
mandewit / 8/10
mandewit / 8/10
POST SCRIPT Apologies for our wholesome foursome.I hope it's not too complicated or convoluted. We really wanted to have a good, wholseome forsome in a way that somehow make it work so that each party gets what they want. We wanted to explore platonic soulmates and their actual loves while at the same time including how they deal with their unconventional lives where if they're discovered. Liv talks a lot about the thought process on her app, so I won't repeat it, but please feel free to adjust or focus on any part of their process that you'd like to explore.
PASSWORD Rather Be
SCENE REQUESTS
- Dance lessons! Namely Yongdam and Kijo are terrible and the antics that ensue from Sunsin, and maybe Kwang, trying to teach them.
- Dance lessons! Namely Yongdam and Kijo are terrible and the antics that ensue from Sunsin, and maybe Kwang, trying to teach them.
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