XLI

There is no definite word for what they have (perhaps it has been erased from the national dictionary like so many other words have) but know this: Yongsun finds sanctuary in Moonbyul’s embrace, Moonbyul finds sanctuary in Yongsun’s embrace. Together they measure out each and every one of their insecurities, dividing them evenly on their shoulders, like that; they are each other’s world.

They steal kisses from each other in the corridors, get tangled in the hospital bed sheets, some nights Moonbyul holds Yongsun, other nights Yongsun holds Moonbyul, together they wander away from the capital and its steel walls to a place only they know. While in Yongsun’s arms, Moonbyul forgets that she is only half human and remembers that warm, thick blood travels beneath her skin.

Together they discover solace in the dark while the flashbombs in their dreams turn to dust.

After Moonbyul has been discharged, their lives begin to settle into normality (but Yongsun still believes the world is mad). Yongsun goes back to work in the office building with new ideas in her head on how to improve the city’s infrastructure. Moonbyul does not go back to the military, does not go into law or even attempt to dabble at the difficult game of politics. Instead, Moonbyul moves back to her family’s farm in the countryside. They say goodbye on the platform, Moonbyul plants a delicate kiss on Yongsun’s cheek before she leaves.