it was an event intended only for idols and actors, but gwi-ma didn't allow that to stop him from slipping on a fox mask very much like the one he'd worn all those years ago -- paired with an elegant silk hanbok. there was only two simple rules for the dress code: formal and a mask. and, while almost everyone chose modern formalities, gwi-ma felt most comfortable like this. this was the version of him that junyoung had cared for, the version of him worthy of a heart so great and good. and, just as he did so long ago, gwi-ma found his heart tucked away from the rest of the festivities -- away from the curious eyes that followed gwi-ma through the crowd. "hiding from your sorrows, or hiding them from everyone else?" he asked gracefully, bowing slightly. the balcony they stood on was illuminated by moonlight, giving junyoung a dreamy glow. for just a moment, gwi-ma believed he traveled back -- a chance to change what had happened.

gwi-ma easily shuffled through the festival goers of the palace, bright lanterns, loud music, and flowing alcohol serving as a mask -- second to the fox mask he already wore. he was here for one thing, and one thing only. if he could devour the soul of the prince, he would regain the fear and respect of all the mortals who dared to believe he no longer existed. he slipped into one of the hallways that was often used by the servants to discreetly pass from room to room. he searched the various rooms he came across -- most empty or filled to the brim with guests. however, there was one that held a single person. gwi-ma would have simply moved on, but there was something about this one that had him pausing in his mission. a simple servant would give him no real power, yet there gwi-ma stood. "even servants are enjoying themselves. why do you linger in such a dark corner? is your loyalty to the prince so great and grand?" he asked, voice deep yet soothing from behind his mask. "you carry something heavy."

clear notes rang through the small garden as jinu plucked the strings of his bipa, soft words sung and mingling in the air to create a melody only meant for jinu's ears. the night was quiet otherwise -- the rest of the inhabitants of the palace in another wing. it was hard to believe that he was invited to play here, though his heart hurt every time he thought about how he really managed it. his chords became sad and dissonant until he heard a creak of wood -- jinu jumping out of fear. however, when he registered who it was, his heart rate increased tenfold. he stood quickly and bowed deeply. "your highness, i was unaware you would be here. i would have prepared a more suitable song if i had been warned." be respectful -- you never knew what would upset the very sought-after, very handsome prince.

abby almost ran into the other, surprise passing over his features. he looked behind him, the rest of the group just around the corner and following him -- their patterns on display for anyone to see. he was quite fond of not seeing his own patterns, so he hadn't taken the opportunity to reveal them. "what are you doing here?" he hissed out a whisper. they weren't particularly close, but abby had found himself growing fond of them -- so much so that he couldn't envision himself sacrificing them to gwi-ma. he quickly glanced behind him, hearing the voices and footstep drawing nearer. without warning, he grabbed the other and pulled them into nearest room and pressed them against the wall -- hand pressing against their lips. "don't make a noise until they pass."