Standing beside her fellow stars, Minjoon couldn't conceal the astonished expression adorning his face. Initially, he had anticipated that the majority of the scenes would rely on the assistance of cutting-edge technology and special effects. However, the budget allocated to this production appeared to surpass even his initial estimations. Resting gracefully close to the captivating Namhansanseong Fortress, within a realm of undying splendor, one discovers the resplendent two-story pavilion renowned as The Ten Thousand Scent Pavilion. This architectural marvel blends traditional Korean design with an air of refined elegance.
As Minjoon approached The Ten Thousand Scent Pavilion, a meticulously landscaped garden welcomed him, adorned with vibrant flowers and verdant foliage. The entrance, marked by an arched gate, showcases intricate carvings reflecting the essence of its surroundings. Inside a world of enchantment unfolds. The first floor reveals a spacious hall adorned with masterfully painted murals depicting legendary heroes and mythical creatures. Soft lanterns cast a warm glow, setting the stage for captivating performances. Skilled artists, masters of dance, music, and storytelling, weave their talents into a mesmerizing tapestry of entertainment besides courtesans. Traditional melodies resonate through the air, as graceful dancers enrapture onlookers with their rhythmic movements. Ascend the staircase to the second floor, where serenity and intimacy flourish. This level of The Ten Thousand Scent Pavilion beckons with refined indulgence. Each room, adorned with ornate Korean furnishings, showcases embroidered silk tapestries and delicate porcelain artworks. Within these private chambers, guests engage in intellectual conversations, partake in tea ceremonies, or meet an alluring courtesan. Seclusion and relaxation permeate the atmosphere, fostering meaningful connections.
Clad in a white cotton robe adorned with meticulously embroidered peachy-golden lotus flowers and purple butterflies, Minjoon stood still, observing the spectacle unfolding before his eyes. Countless extras meandered in and out, their cheerful countenances reflecting a touch of inebriation, yet genuine smiles adorned their faces. He noticed the cameras diligently capturing the scene from all angles, encompassing a comprehensive 360° perspective, both inside and outside the set. As he immersed himself in the enchanting ambiance, his senses were beckoned by a resonant voice, deep and rich, tinged with an electrifying thrill. He turned slightly to his right, as the towering figure before him surpassed his own height, in an attempt to capture the source of the captivating voice.
"CUT! We have captured an ample number of scenes. It appears satisfactory for the time being," announced an elderly man, relying on his cane for support. Covered in an attire befitting his age, he sported sunglasses that obscured his facial expression from Minjoon's view. "Are the actors for the next scene prepared? I have no intention of waiting any longer. Just because that woman married into wealth, she believes she is superior to everyone," Director Kim Minjae remarked, scanning the surroundings for Actress Yoon Soyeon. Minjoon overheard him muttering something, though the words were incomprehensible as they belonged to a foreign language. Amidst Director Kim's vehement outburst, the term nouveau riche reached Minjoon's ears, likely carried by the wind to the ears of those nearby as well.
Lost in his own thoughts, Minjoon observed the bustling set as he stood at the end of the row. Conversations buzzed around him, and then he heard a familiar whisper. "Hey, isn't that Actress Yoon Soyeon? It seems like we will shoot a scene soon," one of the crew members murmured, drawing Minjoon's attention to the stunning woman who had just arrived on set.
Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.
Actress Yoon Soyeon appeared with a radiant vision amidst the controlled chaos. She wore an exquisite purple gown that accentuated her elegance and grace, adorned with delicate lotus flowers, which added a touch of ethereal beauty. Her fair, porcelain skin seemed to glow under the lights, enhancing her natural allure. The meticulous application of her makeup further highlighted her features, leaving an impression of exquisite refinement. As Minjoon's eyes followed her, he couldn't help but notice the intricate hair accessories that adorned her flowing locks. Intricately designed hairpins and delicate flowers graced her hair, emphasizing her captivating presence. At that moment, Minjoon witnessed the convergence of artistry and reality, as the enchanting world of the film overlapped with the on-set atmosphere. The lines between fiction and reality blurred, and he found himself captivated by the allure of Yoon Soyeon's appearance, marveling at the seamless harmony between the fictional world and the captivating actress who brought it to life. Had Minjoon not witnessed her alter ego, he might have been one of her ardent admirers, but he recognized that true beauty extends far beyond surface appearances. As an argument unfolded between the actress and director, Minjoon, having no involvement, endeavored to shut out their discordant voices and instead directed his focus towards envisioning the forthcoming scene in his mind's eye.
As they proceeded along with the rest, they soon arrived at the second floor of the pavilion and positioned themselves in the middle of the fifth door. This particular location would serve as the backdrop for capturing the second appearance of The Silver Shadow. "Now, could everyone kindly proceed to their assigned positions? And where is the vase that was supposed to be here? Fetch it immediately," Director Kim instructed, reproaching the individual close to him. "Is everyone familiar with their lines? Let us commence." said the director.
Standing resolutely before the door, Minjoon inhaled deeply, aligning his posture with precision. His gaze fixated on the actors cast as the guardians, awaiting their cue. Given that the scene was shot from inside the room, the hallway remained devoid of anyone except for the sentinels and Minjoon. "Act 4, Scene 6. Action," the director's command resounded, signaling Minjoon to seamlessly slip into character. The guards swung open the doors, bowing their heads deferentially as The Silver Shadow entered, subsequently shutting the door behind him. With his head still lowered, The Silver Shadow patiently awaited a response from his master, while a cold, deliberate voice pierced the air, asking, "Why are you here, Number 4, and why are you alone?" The Silver Shadow, maintaining his bowed posture, spoke with a sense of urgency, "Master, an unexpected and peculiar occurrence has transpired."
"You may raise your gaze," commanded the voice. The Silver Shadow complied, lifting his eyes to meet the piercing gaze of The Maiden of Unyielding Noble Virtue, who stood before the bed, engrossed in smoke from her kiseru pipe, her focus unwaveringly fixed on him. "During the mission, we were ambushed by unknown assailants, and they left behind this," The Silver Shadow explained, retrieving a message concealed within his sleeves and presenting it to his master. As she exhaled the smoke into the air, The Maiden of Unyielding Noble Virtue spoke, her words drifting with the wisps of smoke. "It seems we have stumbled upon an intriguing situation. Proceed to Shadow's Judgment and receive your punishment for arriving without the desired intelligence," she declared, her grip holding The Silver Shadow's chin as she exhaled another puff of smoke. "You are fortunate, Number 4. Without a face like yours, you would not have survived in this realm. It appears I must refine your training." A sinister smile curved her lips.
"What are you waiting for? Inform Number 2 to bring me some refreshments. I have not had my fill today." Yin Essence Palm of Ninefold Renewal is the formidable martial art wielded by The Maiden of Unyielding Noble Virtue. By forcibly harnessing the Yin energy of living beings, the user's palm emanates a resplendent blue-white glow, imbuing them with youthfulness, vitality, and rejuvenation. This explains why The Maiden of Unyielding Noble Virtue, despite having traversed eight decades in this world, appears as if she were in her mid-twenties.
"CUT! We are going to reshoot the scene. Ensure everyone is in their designated positions. Time is of the essence. The actor Kang Minwoo and actress Yoon Hyewon will be here soon. Take your positions. NOW!"