Jimin's steps were light, almost floating, as she retraced the familiar path as Jimin made her way back to her garden. The blooming flowers greeted her with vibrant colors and delicate fragrances, setting the stage for another meeting with her friend. Jimin's heart fluttered in her chest, beating in sync with her growing excitement.

As she settled herself on a bench in the tranquil garden, she found herself waiting in peaceful anticipation for Minjeong's arrival. The air was still, carrying the gentle whispers of nature that surrounded her. A soft breeze rustled the leaves, and the sun cast a warm glow upon the serene setting. Jimin took a moment to immerse herself in the beauty of her surroundings. She observed the vibrant hues of the flowers that bloomed with grace and elegance, their petals swaying delicately in the breeze. She listened attentively to the melodious chirping of birds perched on branches, their harmonious tunes creating a soothing backdrop.

Jimin occasionally glanced around, eagerly anticipating Minjeong's arrival. She smiled, knowing that when they reunited, their conversation would flow effortlessly, filling the garden with laughter, sincerity, and the promise of new revelations. 

But as the hours drifted by and the sun began its descent towards the horizon, Jimin's anticipation slowly transformed into a flicker of concern. With each passing moment, her worry deepened, and the garden's serene tranquility seemed to echo the absence of her dear friend. Questions swirled in her mind, threading a delicate tapestry of uncertainty. Unable to ignore her growing unease, Jimin resolved to take action. She rose from the bench and made her way through the winding pathways of the garden. The vibrant colors of the flowers and the scent of blooming petals became a meaningless background as worry enveloped her heart.

Jimin retraced the paths they had walked together, the memories of them together serving as guiding beacons. With each step, she hoped to catch sight of her friend, to ease the growing worry that gnawed at her. But the training grounds, where Minjeong often honed her skills alongside her fellow knights, seemed like the most logical place to begin her search. 

As Jimin approached the training grounds, the resonating clanging of swords and the grunting of men grew louder. A momentary hesitation washed over her, unsure if she should interrupt their training, however, her worry for her friend eclipsed any reservations she had. Determined, Jimin stepped forward, her footsteps steady and purposeful, drawing the attention of the knights who momentarily paused to observe her arrival. Their curious glances did little to deter her from her mission, her gaze fixed on finding Minjeong amidst the dynamic flurry of motion.

Her eyes scanned the chaotic scene, searching for Minjeong, but nothing could have prepared her for the sight that unfolded before her. There, on the ground, lay Minjeong, her once immaculate armor now a testament to the ferocity of the training. Dents marred its surface, the deep gashes oozed a mixture of blood and sweat, and the weight of her injuries was etched upon her contorted face. The twisted expression of pain on Minjeong's face was a stark contrast to the vibrant and determined warrior she knew.

Without a second thought, Jimin rushed to her friend's side, her voice filled with a mixture of worry and urgency. "Minjeong!" she cried out, her voice carrying the weight of her concern. "What happened? Are you alright?"

Minjeong's gaze met hers, pain clouding her eyes as she struggled to respond through gritted teeth. "I...I got into a fight with one of the other knights," she managed to say, her voice strained with each word. "I...I think I might have broken a rib."

Jimin's heart ached at the sight of Minjeong's suffering. The guilt washed over her like a crashing wave, realizing that her desire to spend time together had momentarily blinded her to the dangers inherent in the life of a knight. But her remorse only fueled her determination to make amends, to offer her unwavering support to her injured friend."Come on," Jimin said, her voice filled with compassion as she helped Minjeong rise to her feet. "Let's get you back to the castle. The healers will take care of you."

As they walked, a sense of remorse gnawed at Jimin's conscience. She had allowed her eagerness to spend time with Minjeong to blind her to the harsh realities of the knightly path. "Minjeong, I'm so sorry," she said, as they made their way to the infirmary. "I should have been more mindful of the risks you face as a knight. Please forgive me."

Minjeong looked up at her, her expression softening. "It's not your fault, Princess," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I knew what I was getting into when I decided to become a knight."

Jimin nodded, understanding. She knew that Minjeong was strong, but seeing her like this made her realize just how much strength it took to be a knight. Every few steps, Minjeong's strength wavered, her legs threatening to buckle beneath her. Jimin would reach out, wrapping a steadying arm around her friend's waist, offering a lifeline of support.

Finally, with a collective surge of strength, they reached the entrance of the infirmary. Jimin eased Minjeong down onto a waiting stretcher, their eyes locked in a silent exchange of shared exhaustion and relief. The healers sprang into action, their skilled hands tending to Minjeong's needs, as Jimin stood nearby,

After getting Minjeong treated in the infirmary, Jimin settled herself by her friend's bedside, keeping her company. She watched as the healer tended to Minjeong's injuries, marveling at their skill and expertise. As the healer finished up and left the room, Minjeong's gaze lifted to meet Jimin's, her eyes filled with a mix of pain and gratitude. "Thank you for staying with me," she murmured, her voice still weak from the lingering ache.

Jimin returned the gesture with a soft smile. "Of course," she replied, "I'm not going anywhere."

A comfortable silence enveloped them for a brief moment, the air thick with unspoken thoughts and shared emotions. However, Jimin couldn't help but feel a knot of unease tightening within her. The sight of Minjeong wounded and in pain reminded her of the inherent dangers that came with being a knight. The thought of losing her dear friend sent a shiver down her spine.

The two friends sat in silence for a few moments, with Jimin's presence bringing comfort to Minjeong. Breaking the silence, Minjeong's voice trembled with vulnerability as she spoke once again. "I'm sorry for making you stay here with me for so long," she expressed, a touch of regret tainting her words.

"Promise me something," she interjected, her tone serious and heartfelt. "Promise me that you'll be careful. Promise me that you'll do everything in your power to stay safe."

Minjeong looked at her. "I promise," she affirmed, "But you have to promise me something too."

"What is it?" she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity and concern.

"You have to promise me that you'll stay here, in the castle," Minjeong said, her voice firm. "You can't keep putting yourself in danger like this. You're the princess, Jimin. You're too important to risk your life."

Jimin's mouth parted, ready to voice her objections, but Minjeong's upraised hand halted her words, silencing her protests. "Please," she said, her voice pleading. "I can't bear the thought of something happening to you. Promise me that you'll stay safe."

Jimin looked at her friend, caught between conflicting emotions, guilt creeping up within her. She understood Minjeong's reasoning all too well. As the princess, she carried a weighty responsibility to her people, and her impulsive actions could jeopardize not only her own life but also the kingdom's well-being. While Minjeong's plea resonated within her, she couldn't shake the restlessness that came with being confined to the castle, feeling helpless in the face of adversity.

However, as their gazes locked, Jimin knew deep down that a choice had to be made. In that moment, clarity washed over her, and she knew what she had to do.

"I promise," she declared firmly, her voice laced with determination. "I promise that I'll be careful and that I'll stay safe. But I can't promise that I won't do everything in my power to help my people. That's what being a princess is all about."

Minjeong nodded in understanding, her expression reflecting empathy. "I know," she acknowledged, her voice filled with a quiet understanding. "But promise me that you'll think before you act. Promise me that you won't rush into danger without considering the consequences."

Jimin smiled at her friend, feeling grateful for her wisdom and guidance. "I promise," she said. "I'll always think before I act."

As the weight of their conversation settled upon them, silence embraced their presence, becoming a testament to the unyielding bond they shared. In those quiet moments, Jimin gazed at Minjeong, knowing deep within her heart that their friendship would only grow stronger, emboldening them to face any challenges that lay ahead.

Suddenly, breaking the silence, Jimin's voice filled the air, a glimmer of a mischievous idea taking shape. "Hey, Minjeong, why don't you sleep over in my chamber tonight? You shouldn't have to return to those cramped quarters for the knights."

Minjeong's cheeks flushed a bright crimson, flustered by the suggestion. "I couldn't possibly, Princess Jimin," she stammered, "I appreciate the offer, but it wouldn't be proper."

Raising an eyebrow, Jimin challenged the notion. "Proper?" she echoed, her tone playful yet resolute. "Minjeong, we're friends. There's nothing improper about two friends sharing a room."

Minjeong's protest continued, her voice tinged with self-doubt. "But I'm just a knight," she interjected once again, her uncertainty palpable. "And you're a princess. It wouldn't be right for me to—"

Jimin's gentle interruption cut through her friend's hesitation. "Stop," she interjected softly, her words infused with reassurance. "You're more than just a knight, Minjeong. You're my friend. And I want you to stay here tonight."

Minjeong searched Jimin's eyes, seeking any sign of insincerity, but all she found was warmth, and genuine kindness. It was in that moment she realized that there was nothing she desired more than to stay by her friend's side, basking in the safety and solace of their connection. "Alright. I'll stay."

Jimin beamed at her, relieved. "Great. I'll have the servants prepare the bed for you."

The next morning, Minjeong's eyes fluttered open, greeted by the sight of Jimin already dressed and prepared for the day. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, Minjeong slowly sat up in bed, feeling a slight twinge in her side. She gingerly clasped her injured area. 

"Good morning," Minjeong mumbled, still feeling a little groggy from her sleep.

"Good morning," Jimin replied, her tone more formal than usual. "The doctors told you need to rest for a few more days."

Minjeong's grogginess quickly transformed into concern . The thought of being sidelined from training, of falling behind her fellow knights, sent a surge of panic through her veins. She felt the urgency to prove her worth, to be prepared for any impending battles that might arise. "But Princess Jimin, I can't rest," Minjeong protested, "I have to-"

"You will do as you're told," Jimin asserted, her voice leaving no room for argument. "I've already spoken to your commanding officer. You'll be excused from training until you've fully recovered."

Minjeong looked at Jimin, taken aback by the sudden shift in her friend's demeanor. It was as if a different side of Jimin had emerged, one that finally embodied the responsibilities and authority of her position as a princess. The weight of her words hung heavy in the air, momentarily stifling Minjeong's protests.

"I'm sorry, Princess Jimin," Minjeong said, feeling ashamed. "I didn't mean to disobey you."

"It's not about obedience," Jimin replied. "It's about your health. You're important to me, Minjeong. I can't afford to lose you."

Minjeong suddenly felt her heart skip a beat at Jimin's words. She had never heard her friend speak so openly about her feelings before. It was like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders, and she suddenly felt more at ease with the situation. "I'm sorry, Princess Jimin," Minjeong said, her voice filled with a tinge of shame. "I didn't mean to disobey you."

Jimin's response was swift, and her words carried a depth of emotion that Minjeong had not anticipated. She spoke not as a princess but as a friend who genuinely cared. "It's not about obedience," Jimin explained, her voice softening. "It's about your health. You're important to me, Minjeong. I can't afford to lose you."

Minjeong's heart skipped a beat at the heartfelt declaration. The walls she had unknowingly built around her heart long ago were beginning to crumble, and she felt a surge of warmth envelop her. Jimin's concern and affection were laid bare, melting away Minjeong's previous shame and replacing it with gratitude.

"Thank you, Princess Jimin," Minjeong whispered, "I'll do as you say."

"Good," Jimin responded, a warm smile gracing her lips as she approached the bed. "Now, raise your shirt."

Minjeong's eyes widened in surprise, a mixture of playfulness and apprehension filling her expression. She couldn't help but let out a scoff, trying to lighten the mood. "At least buy a girl dinner first," she joked, playfully covering her chest. "What if someone catches us?" Minjeong's remark evoked a mischievous playfulness, deftly evading a playful slap from Jimin.

"I just want to see your ribs, dummy. Don't get the wrong idea," Jimin laughed, taking a seat beside Minjeong. "I don't even know why you're acting like this. Last night you were all over me."

Minjeong grumbled, a hint of embarrassment coloring her cheeks. "I was knocked out, so I didn't even know. Besides, the beds here are comfier than the ones on the training grounds! I warned you about it, but you insisted on it anyway." She slightly lifted her shirt, averting her gaze, too flustered to meet Jimin's eyes.

"Hmm, still cute," Jimin remarked, her voice carrying a faint hint of playfulness. She trailed her fingertips lightly over the bruised skin peeking from beneath the tight bandages on Minjeong's torso, unintentionally drawing out a shiver from her. She watched as Minjeong visibly tensed her stomach, a mixture of discomfort and pain evident in her reaction. "The doctors said you'd be fine in a few. Nothing too bad." Jimin's gaze shifted up, but her expression turned slightly icy when she noticed Minjeong's lack of attention. She leaned closer, her hand moving to firmly grasp Minjeong's chin, redirecting her gaze back towards her.  "Hey there, don't ignore me," Jimin said with a soft yet commanding tone, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Who even did this to you?"

Minjeong's breath hitched at the intensity in Jimin's gaze and the firm touch of her hand. She met Jimin's gaze, her own eyes reflecting a strange feeling. "Just some guy who thinks he's the big thing," she replied, her voice slightly strained. "I still have to report his behavior to the king. That is if he hasn't figured it out by now."

Jimin slowly released her grip on Minjeong's chin, her touch softening. She withdrew her hand, allowing Minjeong to regain her freedom and compose herself, "Make sure you do. No one should get away with harming one of our knights. Your safety is important, Minjeong."

Minjeong's eyes briefly flickered away from Jimin's gaze, her breath catching as she struggled to regain her composure. She fidgeted with the hem of her shirt, the fabric slipping through her trembling fingers, a nervous gesture that betrayed her feelings. "Thanks," she stammered, her voice slightly shaky. "I... appreciate your concern, Jimin."

"Hey, why don't you freshen up a bit?" Jimin suggested, "You know...before it gets to noon."

Minjeong hesitated for a moment, then nodded, grateful for Jimin's thoughtfulness. She slowly got up from the bed, softly clutching her side as she steadied herself. Jimin stepped closer, offering her arm for support.

"Lean on me," Jimin said, her voice gentle. "I'll help you."

Minjeong tentatively looped her arm through Jimin's, feeling a mixture of gratitude and lingering fluster. As they walked towards the bathroom, Jimin couldn't resist teasing her friend. "Careful now," Jimin said with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. "I wouldn't want you to fall and hurt yourself even more. You know, I could always help you in there if you'd like."

Minjeong's face turned an even deeper shade of red,  embarrassed. She playfully nudged Jimin's shoulder. "I think I'll manage on my own, thank you very much," Minjeong replied, feigning annoyance. "I don't need the princess's royal assistance every step of the way."

Jimin chuckled, playing along with Minjeong's act. "Alright, alright. I'll back off, but remember, my offer still stands."

Upon reaching the bathroom, Minjeong gently pushed Jimin away, pretending to be apologetic. "I appreciate your concern, Princess, but I can take it from here. Please, go about your royal duties."

Jimin feigned hurt, placing a hand over her heart dramatically. "Oh, the rejection stings," she said, feigning disappointment. "But I suppose a princess must respect her knight's wishes."

Minjeong couldn't help but laugh, her earlier fluster fading as their playful banter lightened the mood. "I'll be fine, Jimin. Don't worry about me."

With a final teasing smile, Jimin backed away, giving Minjeong the space she requested. "Alright, I'll leave you to it," she said, a glimmer of affection in her eyes. "But don't hesitate to call for me if you need anything."