Moodboard by chimyra

Here's her tumblr.

The Joseon government had adopted a strict isolationist policy, but in 1897, the Korean Empire rose to power under Emperor Gwangmu and, during its brief period (until the Japanese Occupation), Korea began modernizing various industries. Several nations, including the US, all invested in the country, and sought to influence it politically. This story takes place in an Edwardian AU where the US and Korea are on the cusp of a reciprocally friendly relationship, sending diplomats to one another’s countries, in an effort to strengthen political ties, and miscegenation is not illegal.  Civil War still happened, though. You can probably guess the city.

PREVIEW:

"'Gentlemen, please allow me to introduce my daughter.”

The men turned, and your heart leapt into your throat.  Three of them were your father’s age, but the fourth… The fourth was young, and almost blindingly handsome.

You could barely hear your father as he made introductions.  “These men are diplomats from the Korean peninsula,” your father explained, mistaking your silence for puzzlement, “And this,” your father started, indicating the young man, “is Ambassador--”

The young man interrupted, holding up a hand, as he turned to your father, saying, “Sir?  If I may?” Turning back to you, he said, “My name is Monsieur Kim Jongin,” and bowed low, the movement almost inhumanly graceful.  As he stood, an impish light came into his eyes, and he said, “Ah, forgive me. I believe that you introduce yourselves like this…” Taking a step forward, he took you by the hand, and bowed again, this time, placing a warm, chaste kiss on your fingertips, as he looked up at you, eyes twinkling.  Lowering your hand, and stepping back, he smiled.

Turning to the men, your father said, “My daughter is something of a polyglot.  She already speaks English, French, Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, but has been casting about for a new language to learn.  

“Is that so?” Monsieur Kim replied, his eyes never leaving yours.  “Mademoiselle, it would be my pleasure to aid you in your endeavours, should you so wish it.”

Finally finding your voice, you answered, “Oh, I wouldn’t dream of stealing you from your duties, monsieur!”

“Nonsense!” One of the other men said, stepping forward to clap Jongin on the shoulder.  “They sent too many of us, as it is, and this one has been working tirelessly to strengthen our nations’ friendship for almost a decade!”  He turned to Monsieur Kim. “You can take a bit of time to thank our host for his kindness, by teaching his daughter if, of course, that’s amenable to her father.”

Your father glanced between you, and smiled knowingly.  “Certainly.'"