Chapter 8: A Merchant’s Heart & A Mysterious Encounter

As the evening deepened, the sky bathed in hues of orange and purple, Han Seohan soared above the town, his crimson wing gleaming in the dimming light. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of baked bread and burning wood from the chimneys below.

After spending some time exploring, his attention finally landed on Ronan, the young merchant he had been observing for the past few days. Ronan was a man of average build, his brown hair slightly tousled from a long day of work, and his sharp hazel eyes filled with determination. He had recently arrived in town, setting up a modest trade stall where he sold various goods.

Seohan followed him subtly, watching as Ronan interacted with customers, exchanged pleasantries with townsfolk, and settled into his temporary residence near the marketplace. After gathering enough information on Ronan's daily routine, Seohan realized that night had already fallen.

Deciding he had seen enough for one day, he flew back to the female knight's quarters. Upon entering, he was immediately met with a sharp glare.

"Where have you been all this time?" she asked, crossing her arms.

Seohan casually waved a hand. "Oh, nothing much. Just taking a tour of the town."

The knight narrowed her eyes. "You better not be plotting something behind my back."

He smirked. "Relax. If I really had any bad intentions, I would have acted on them already."

She scoffed, choosing to ignore him as she climbed into bed. "Hmph. Whatever. Just don't cause any trouble."

Seohan shrugged and found a spot to sit. And so, the routine continued.

---

The days passed in a rhythmic flow.

Each morning, the female knight led her subordinates in rigorous training, barking orders with precision. Her soldiers respected her greatly, admiring her skill and dedication. After training, she would don her lighter patrol uniform and ride into town, checking on the people and ensuring peace was maintained.

Seohan observed everything—her interactions with Ronan, the way she casually conversed with him, the ease with which they exchanged words. The merchant was friendly and warm, his smile never faltering when speaking to her. But even though their conversations seemed lighthearted, Seohan noticed something beneath Ronan's expressions—hesitation, uncertainty, and longing.

Then came the night that changed everything.

---

That evening, Seohan spotted Ronan heading toward a tavern with a few of his companions. The lively establishment was filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and the rich scent of ale. Seohan, invisible to the crowd, slipped inside and hovered near their table, listening in on their conversation.

One of Ronan's friends nudged him with an elbow. "So? Have you told her yet?"

Ronan let out a deep sigh, running a hand through his hair. "How can I? Things were different when we were kids. Back in the village, we were just close friends. But now… she's a knight, someone admired by many. She's out of my league."

His friend frowned. "Come on, didn't you come all the way here just for that? To tell her how you feel?"

Another chimed in. "At least try, man. You've been carrying that pendant of hers for ages. If nothing else, at least return it to her."

Ronan's eyes widened slightly before he patted his pouch. "Oh yeah, I almost forgot about that…"

His friend smirked. "See? This is your perfect chance. When you return the pendant, just confess already."

Ronan sighed again but gave a small nod. "Alright, alright… I'll think about it."

From his spot, Seohan crossed his arms, deep in thought. So, Ronan has feelings for her? A smirk tugged at his lips. This might be easier than I thought.

As he left the tavern, Seohan found himself in a quiet alleyway, the dim moonlight casting elongated shadows on the cobblestone path. He leaned against the cold brick wall, piecing together everything he had learned.

Ronan has feelings for her but is too hesitant to act… Seohan mused. If I play my cards right, I can push things in the right direction.

Just then, a voice interrupted his thoughts.

"Hey, kid."

Seohan froze.

His heart skipped a beat as he turned to see a shadowed figure standing at the alley's entrance. His face was partially obscured by the darkness, but his tone carried a mix of curiosity and suspicion.

"What are you doing here all alone?" the man continued, taking a slow step forward. "You lost or something?"

Seohan's eyes widened.

Wait… he can see me?

And just like that, the chapter ended.

Who was this man? And how was he able to see Seohan when no one else could?

Find out in the next chapter!