Seokjin glanced back intermittently as he walked, ensuring the Wolfian kept pace with him. Taehyung was crouched low to the ground, moving in an animalistic manner, yet when he sensed Seokjin's gaze, he paused, lifting his head.

Their eyes met, and Taehyung let out a soft huff. It was as though he was attempting to communicate, perhaps to show a trace of trust or familiarity—a silent acknowledgment of the man walking before him. Seokjin's lips curved in response, unable to resist the curiosity sparking within him. He found himself wondering if Wolfians like Taehyung truly existed, so tamed yet still untamed.

There was a gentleness in Taehyung's presence that defied the fierce, dangerous reputation Wolfians carried. His movements softened in Seokjin's company, as if he had learned to follow his lead, revealing a rare tamed quality in his wild nature. Yet, beneath that calm exterior, his gaze remained sharp, his instincts finely tuned—every reaction measured, a creature poised between loyalty and primal caution. And perhaps the most remarkable thing of all was that, in all their days together, not once had he shown a hint of aggression toward Seokjin. The restraint, the trust—it was as if Taehyung had willingly bridged the space between his untamed self and the quiet, steady bond they had formed.

Facing forward again, Seokjin continued his stride, though a sudden halt from behind caught his attention. Taehyung's ears twitched, his body frozen, eyes wide with alertness. The city's bustling sounds drifted toward them from a distance, an overwhelming tide of noise that seemed to ignite his unease.

The path they had been traveling on slowly transitioned into cobblestone, a prelude to their entry into the city. Taehyung halted at the edge of the grassy terrain, his gaze fixed anxiously ahead, and his nose quivered, sniffing the array of new scents that filled the air—each one foreign and intimidating. A soft whine escaped his lips as he pressed closer to the familiar safety of the wilderness behind him.

Sensing Taehyung's hesitation, Seokjin turned back with a gentle expression. Recognizing the need to shield him from the unfamiliar sights and sounds, he removed his durumagi—the outer robe worn over the hanbok—and, bending down, carefully draped it over Taehyung's trembling form. The robe cascaded over him like a protective shield, engulfing him entirely, covering even his head in a cocoon of warmth.

Taehyung's eyes widened, momentarily distracted by the unfamiliar weight of the robe. The subtle scent of cedarwood from Seokjin's clothing filled his senses, soothing him as he looked up at Seokjin, catching the calm reassurance in his gaze.

It was enough to ease his worries, at least for the moment. But as Seokjin's gaze shifted to the road ahead, he couldn't shake the thought of how unusual they'd appear once they reached the city gates. Taehyung, entirely unclothed beneath the oversized robe, would be crouched low and moving on all fours. This strange sight would undoubtedly raise suspicion, sparking rumors and drawing attention they could not afford.

Determined, Seokjin steadied himself, exhaling as he turned to Taehyung. "Forgive me for the impropriety," he murmured, his voice a gentle blend of warmth and resolve. Without hesitation, he stepped closer, sliding one arm beneath Taehyung's knees while the other wrapped firmly around his back, lifting him smoothly off the ground.

The suddenness of it startled Taehyung, who let out a surprised yelp, instinctively squirming in protest. His legs kicked, his arms flailed, and a small growl of panic escaped him as he tried to break free, the foreign sensation of being lifted setting off every alarm in him.

"Steady now; you're safe," Seokjin said in a soothing tone. But Taehyung's panic persisted, his movements restless. With a patient sigh, Seokjin tightened his hold, pulling Taehyung closer against his chest, using gentle strength to still him. Finally, Taehyung's resistance waned, his struggle subsiding as he began to recognize the unwavering hold Seokjin had on him.

"Please, stop moving," Seokjin urged softly, his voice low and soothing as he steadied his hold. "The road ahead will be too rough on you otherwise." He paused, glancing down at Taehyung's uncertain gaze, sensing the flicker of anxiety there. "And the city... I know it's unfamiliar to you, but I promise you'll be safe here in my arms."

Another reason drove Seokjin's protective gesture—Taehyung's unmistakable appearance as a Wolfian. His wolf-like ears and tail were in plain sight, a striking feature that would undoubtedly draw attention and fear from those around them. Ordinary citizens seldom encountered those with such traits, and Seokjin understood well that leaving Taehyung exposed would only invite unwanted stares, whispers, and possibly chaos within the city.

As Taehyung's feet dangled, he looked up at Seokjin, his ears drooping and a soft whine escaping his lips. There was a confused vulnerability in his gaze, as though questioning if he had done something wrong to be held this way.

Seokjin, hearing his faint whimper, softened his tone even further. "Have no fear. I will see to it that no harm comes to you," he murmured, ensuring the robe fully covered Taehyung's head and face, hiding his features from any watchful eyes. He adjusted the fabric to conceal Taehyung's tail, then resumed their journey, cradling the Wolfian carefully in his arms.

"Rangjae, come along," he called to his horse, who obeyed with a gentle whinny and trotted alongside them.

As they approached the city gates, Taehyung's heartbeat quickened. Although his sight was blocked by the robe, every sound felt amplified in his ears—the footsteps, the distant voices, the bustling murmur of the crowd. His ears twitched under the cover, absorbing every unfamiliar noise, each one adding a fresh wave of tension.

Upon stepping through the gates, a group of young women quickly noticed Seokjin's arrival and hurried over with smiles and lively voices. "My Lord Kim, you have returned!"

"How was your journey, my Lord?" they inquired eagerly, their voices light and friendly.

Seokjin offered them a courteous smile, inclining his head in greeting. "It was uneventful, thankfully," he replied, his tone warm yet composed.

One of the women's gaze shifted curiously to the bundle in his arms. "And who might this be, my Lord?" she asked, leaning forward as if to catch a glimpse of what lay beneath the robe.

Gently, Seokjin shifted his arm to shield Taehyung's face more securely, his fingers adjusting the fabric to hide him entirely. He could feel Taehyung trembling, and it pained him to think of the Wolfian's fear. Yet, Taehyung's attention gradually turned inward, tuning to the steady beat of Seokjin's heart—a rhythm that pulsed with calm strength, calming him even as he shivered.

"This child was wandering near the city gates alone," Seokjin explained, his voice steady and unflinching. "I thought it best to bring him here and see that he is properly cared for."

One of the women sighed, her eyes soft with admiration. "Our Lord truly has the heart of a saint, always offering kindness to those in need."

"Indeed! His benevolence is matched only by his handsome face," another agreed, a smile of admiration lighting her features.

Seokjin responded with a polite smile, acknowledging their praise without basking in it.

Under the robe, Taehyung's restless curiosity began to bubble up. Though fear still gripped him, he found himself drawn to the sounds around him, wanting to see where they were, to glimpse what was making the noises, and to understand who was causing the strong, fragrant scent that filled his nose.

Seokjin noticed Taehyung attempting to peer out from behind the robe. But with a swift yet gentle motion, Seokjin placed his palm over Taehyung's face, shielding him once more. Darkness returned to Taehyung's world as he withdrew beneath the cover.

A bustling crowd soon gathered around them, eager and animated. Familiar voices filled the air as townspeople vied for Seokjin's attention, many curious about what new goods he had brought back this time.

"I have rich brocade, exquisite ceramics, and rare medicinal herbs," Seokjin replied, maintaining a polite but warm smile. "Though I regret to inform you, the medicinal herbs are bound for Jinjuseong, not for sale here." His voice held a note of gentle sincerity. "The people there are in greater need of these remedies; their apothecaries¹ often struggle to find such ingredients. It would be unfair to withhold these herbs when they could ease so many lives there."

The crowd murmured in understanding, some nodding with newfound respect. Though disappointed, they couldn't fault his compassion for those in distant towns, knowing his heart sought to help where the need was greatest.

"We wish to purchase the brocade and ceramics!" someone from the crowd called out eagerly, eyes gleaming with desire.

Seokjin's eyes softened with a hint of apology as he bowed. "I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I must inform you that business will resume tomorrow. Please return then, and I will be more than happy to serve you."

After one last respectful nod, Seokjin tried to make his way through the crowd, but the townsfolk lingered, reluctant to part from his presence. He was known far and wide as a man of honor and fairness, held in great esteem here. With his family's lands stretching across the city, the people benefited from low taxes for the poor and fair ones for the affluent, ensuring prosperity for all.

Just as Seokjin found himself completely surrounded by lingering admirers, his loyal horse, Rangjae, let out a spirited neigh, sensing his partner's plight. The horse nudged through the crowd with ease, creating a path for Seokjin to escape. Smiling, Seokjin murmured, "Well done, dear friend," grateful for the timely intervention.

The crowd parted reluctantly to allow the horse and cart to pass, their faces a mix of admiration and envy. Rangjae's stride was as sure as ever, guiding them smoothly through the bustling streets of the city. With each step, the horse's hooves echoed against the cobblestones, blending with the lively chatter of vendors and townspeople, creating a familiar symphony that accompanied their journey home.

Everywhere they went, people greeted Seokjin with enthusiasm, bowing or waving as he passed. Seokjin returned each greeting with a respectful bow, embodying the grace and stature expected of someone of his rank.

Finally, as they neared his estate, Seokjin noticed the servants moving forward, ready to assist. As he approached, two of them stepped forward, astonishment flashing across their faces when they saw him carrying an unknown guest wrapped in his robe. Yet, they held their tongues, trusting Seokjin's judgment without question as they quickly shifted into action to help with the entrance.

"Take Rangjae to the stables," Seokjin requested, his tone warm and appreciative. Two servants sprang into action, one carefully unhooking the cart and the other leading Rangjae toward the stables, where other horses whinnied softly in welcome.

With Rangjae in capable hands, Seokjin entered his estate, a small entourage of servants following behind. "Shall I ready a guest room, my Lord?" one servant inquired, noticing Seokjin's unexpected guest.

"Yes, that would be appreciated," Seokjin replied, though he continued walking toward his own quarters. To the servant's surprise, he noticed that Seokjin was not bringing Taehyung to the guest chamber but was heading straight into his private room.

Realizing Seokjin's intent, the servant marveled silently. "Our Lord truly has a generous heart," he thought as he moved to prepare the guest room with utmost care, knowing it would now be for Seokjin himself.

In the solitude of his chambers, Seokjin gently lowered Taehyung into a sturdy wooden chair, finally uncovering his face. Taehyung blinked, squinting slightly at the warm glow of the lanterns, which cast gentle flickers around the room. Yet, barely a moment passed before he slid off the chair, tumbling to the floor with a soft thud when Seokjin moved a step back.

Taehyung released a low, irritated growl, as though scolding Seokjin for abandoning him. Before Seokjin could reach out, Taehyung had already scrambled to a corner, warily eyeing his surroundings. The room's distinct scent, the orderly furniture, and the lingering warmth of incense were far removed from the open, earthy atmosphere of his forest home. His nose wrinkled, and his ears flicked with agitation as he adjusted to these unfamiliar sensations.

"This is my chamber," Seokjin began, his tone gentle and inviting. "It's the largest and safest room here." Yet, he paused when he noticed Taehyung's discomfort, the Wolfian's wary gaze darting around the room.

Hoping to ease the tension, Seokjin went over to a low table where an incense burner rested. He replaced the fading candle with a fresh stick, lighting it and allowing the fragrance of calming pine—a scent valued in the Joseon era for its soothing properties—to fill the air. Slowly, Taehyung's shoulders relaxed, and his expression softened as the familiar earthy aroma enveloped him. Curiosity sparked within him as he started to inch around the room.

His attention soon fell upon the small flickering flame of a candle on the nearby candlestick. Mesmerized by its glow, he leaned closer, intrigued. In his mind, he recalled the crackling fires he had seen Seokjin start in the forest, yet this flame was so delicate and small that he wondered if it might be edible.

He opened his mouth, about to test his curiosity, when Seokjin's firm voice cut through. "Do not touch it," Seokjin cautioned, stepping forward.

However, Taehyung seemed determined, oblivious to the warning. He reached out and clasped his hand over the flame. A yelp escaped him as the sudden pain bit into his skin, and he quickly withdrew his hand, eyes wide with surprise. His tail twitched sharply, swatting the candlestand, which toppled over with a loud clang. Alarmed, Taehyung retreated, baring his teeth and letting out a low growl, as though scolding the offending object for its betrayal.

Suppressing a sigh, Seokjin carefully lifted the candlestand and restored it to its place. Just then, a knock came from the door. "My Lord, is everything all right within?" came the concerned voice of a servant.

Seokjin glanced back at Taehyung, who was still eyeing the candlestand with suspicion, before responding, "Yes, all is well. Please bring me clean bedding."

The servant acknowledged his request with a respectful, "Yes, my Lord," before footsteps faded down the hallway. Seokjin turned back to Taehyung, who now appeared more curious than fearful. Approaching slowly, he gestured toward the candlestand. "This is fire," he explained gently, adopting a patient tone as though addressing a young child. "You must not touch it, nor attempt to consume it. Though fire may seem beautiful, it brings pain if mishandled—"

Before he could finish, Taehyung lost interest and darted away, his focus shifting to the rest of the room. He began to sniff around, taking in the warm cedarwood scent that lingered, a smell that reminded him of Seokjin's presence.

Just then, a second knock echoed from the doorway. Seokjin opened it to find the servant holding a neatly folded set of bedding. He accepted it with a soft smile, positioning himself to shield the room from the servant's prying eyes. "I am grateful for your assistance," he said respectfully, then gently closed the door.

When he turned back, he found Taehyung scratching the side of his intricately carved wooden wardrobe with sharp, untrimmed claws. The gentle, rhythmic sound of claws against wood was oddly reminiscent of a cat sharpening its claws. Seokjin chuckled under his breath; for a wolf, Taehyung's behavior was endearing.

Unfazed by the small damage, Seokjin set about changing the bedding. Once finished, he placed the old bedding in a basket, setting it aside to be washed. As he turned, he spotted Taehyung now perched atop the wardrobe, crouched down and peering at him with keen, observant eyes, like a creature surveying its territory from a treetop.

Amused, Seokjin softened his expression. "Come down," he coaxed gently, glancing toward the bed nearby. "It offers much greater comfort than the wardrobe."

However, Taehyung's incomprehension was evident as he attempted to recline on the wardrobe, his long limbs dangling precariously off the edge. Concern knitted Seokjin's brow, and he stepped forward, poised to catch him if he fell. "That is not a suitable place for rest. Please, come down," he urged, his voice steady yet gentle.

Dissatisfied with the cramped space, Taehyung decided to choose another sleeping spot. With a graceful leap, he sidestepped Seokjin and landed on the floor, his movements fluid and animalistic.

As Seokjin observed him, he couldn't help but notice the exposed curves of Taehyung's bare form. It struck him how accustomed he had become to Taehyung's nudity, yet in the bustling city around them, such a state demanded a certain decorum. It would be inappropriate for Taehyung to remain uncovered, and a sense of urgency washed over Seokjin to ensure he had proper attire to shield him from the eyes of the onlookers.

He opened the wardrobe and searched for garments—something smaller to fit Taehyung's lean frame. At last, he retrieved a pale blue jeogori, its silk fabric shimmering softly under the lantern light. The garment was adorned with delicate patterns of blooming plum blossoms, symbolizing resilience and beauty. He turned around, only to find Taehyung curiously gnawing on the edge of the bedding mat.

Seokjin approached, his voice gentle yet authoritative. "Come now; I know you are not yet accustomed to such customs, but in the city, it is proper for you to wear clothing."

Taehyung seemed oblivious to his words, ignoring Seokjin as he continued gnawing on the bedding mat, his sharp fangs poking through the fabric and leaving small holes in their wake. Seokjin gently grasped his arms, pulling him away from the tattered mat, and Taehyung looked up at him, curiosity shining in his wide, brown eyes. Seokjin extended the clothing, offering it with an encouraging smile. Taehyung sniffed at it, his brow furrowing in confusion.

"This is for wearing," Seokjin explained patiently.

Taehyung tilted his head, his expression perplexed. The fabric didn't smell of meat, so why was it being offered to him? He swatted the jeogori aside, watching as it landed on the floor, his disinterest clear.

Seokjin sighed softly, picking up the garment as he followed after Taehyung, who appeared resolute in evading the matter of attire. "You must wear something. You are no longer in the wild; it is important that you learn the ways of civility," he stated in a measured tone, hoping to convey the importance of social customs.

Taehyung cast a glance back, annoyance briefly flickering across his features at the persistent chase. With a swift leap, he bounded back onto the wardrobe, fully aware that his height granted him an advantage. Seokjin, hands resting on his hips, looked up at him, feeling a mix of exasperation and amusement.

"Very well, as you wish," Seokjin finally conceded, returning the clothing to its place within the wardrobe. "Perhaps it is still too soon for you to wear clothing."

After Seokjin closed the wardrobe, Taehyung remained perched atop it, his gaze fixed on Seokjin with an inquisitive look. Seokjin gestured toward the bed nearby, his tone gentle yet firm. "You should rest there; it is meant for you."

Taehyung stared at the bed, tilting his head as he pondered its purpose. With an instinctive leap, he descended and padded over to the soft bedding, sniffing them carefully. However, he appeared uncertain of what he was meant to do with the space before him.

Seokjin took the lead, sitting on the edge of the bed and patting the empty space beside him, inviting the Wolfian to join him. Taehyung recognized the gesture—Seokjin had done the same during their rainy night in the forest. Mimicking him, Taehyung patted the floor beneath him.

Seokjin stifled a chuckle at the adorable imitation and gently pulled Taehyung up to sit beside him. As Taehyung settled onto the bed, his eyes widened in surprise at the softness beneath him. It was a welcome change from the harshness of cold floors and hard tree branches he had endured for his whole life. Overwhelmed by the comfort, he couldn't help but wag his tail slowly in delight.

"This shall be where you rest tonight," Seokjin said, his voice soothing, his heart swelling with satisfaction as he watched Taehyung discover the comfort of the bed.

Suddenly, Seokjin rose and made his way toward the door, but Taehyung, sensing the shift, promptly followed, moving swiftly on all fours.

Seokjin shook his head, turning back to the bed and pointing firmly. "Do not follow me. You shall rest here. We will determine what to do with you tomorrow." His tone was gentle yet resolute, hoping to convey the need for Taehyung to settle down.

Taehyung merely gazed up at him, his innocent brown eyes wide and filled with curiosity. Seeing such a tender expression, Seokjin found it hard to reconcile this sweet boy with the fearsome creature he had first encountered in the wild. The Wolfian before him was undeniably adorable, and an overwhelming urge surged within Seokjin to ruffle the boy's tangled hair, to share a moment of warmth and connection.

Hesitating, Seokjin compromised and gently patted Taehyung's head. The touch elicited a startled flinch from the Wolfian, which quickly morphed into enjoyment, as if their connection spoke in the language of touch. Taehyung instinctively pressed his head closer to Seokjin's hand, yearning for the comforting caress that conveyed unspoken reassurance.

Seokjin smiled warmly but soon withdrew his hand. In response, Taehyung bounded back to the bed, leaping onto it once more. He eagerly patted the space beside him, using the same gesture he had just learned, inviting Seokjin to return.

With a light sigh, Seokjin decided to indulge Taehyung once more, feeling sympathy for the wild child. He returned to sit on the bed, and silence settled between them. Taehyung's attention remained fixed on Seokjin, his curiosity apparent as he took in every detail of the man beside him.

Taehyung's gaze wandered over Seokjin's features, taking in the large, warm brown eyes, the thick eyebrows that framed his expressions with strength, the long lashes that accentuated his gaze, and the straight nose that complemented his plump lips. The strong curve of Seokjin's neck drew Taehyung's attention further, and he marveled at how strikingly handsome Seokjin appeared, even more so than the reflection he had glimpsed in the river.

Suddenly, something peculiar caught Taehyung's interest—an unfamiliar trait Seokjin possessed that he had never noticed on himself. Driven by curiosity, he leaned in closer, his nose gently brushing against Seokjin's Adam's apple as he sniffed. It was an odd sensation, and Taehyung attempted to discern the strange yet intriguing sight before him, eager to understand this new aspect of the man who had become his protector in this unfamiliar world.

The contact sent a shiver racing up Seokjin's spine, prompting him to instinctively move back. The thought of Taehyung's fangs so close made his heart race, but the more he retreated, the more Taehyung pressed forward, drawn by curiosity.

In a moment of surprise, both of them tumbled back onto the bed, and Seokjin found himself in yet another precarious position. He wondered what Taehyung intended to do this time. Whatever it was, he just hoped his neck wouldn't be harmed.

Taehyung continued his inquisitive exploration, the tip of his nose tickling Seokjin's skin as he breathed in the man's scent. Unable to detect anything particularly different, Taehyung darted his tongue out and licked Seokjin's Adam's apple, an innocent gesture born from his curiosity.

Seokjin's eyes widened in shock, and he instinctively pushed Taehyung back, scrambling to sit upright while touching his throat as if to reassure himself. "Um..." he stammered, gathering his thoughts and struggling to regain his composure. "This... this is known as an Adam's apple," he explained, his voice steadier now. "All men possess it. You do not have one yet because you are still young, but as you mature, you will develop one like mine." He hoped this explanation would redirect Taehyung's curiosity from his neck.

However, Taehyung's curiosity remained unquenched as his gaze fixated on the palm of Seokjin's hand, which concealed the unfamiliar Adam's apple. Tentatively, he reached out, his fingers hovering with a desire to touch, but when Seokjin noticed the sharpness of Taehyung's nails, he swallowed hard, standing up from the bed with a sense of urgency. "It is time for the little one to rest," he announced, his voice firm yet tender.

Taehyung instantly hopped down from the bed; his curiosity piqued. He wondered if they were heading out to hunt, as the darkening sky hinted at dinnertime.

"No, do not leave the bed," Seokjin urged, gently attempting to guide Taehyung back onto the soft surface. After a brief struggle, he managed to lift Taehyung back into place, carefully tucking him under the bedding mat with a sense of finality.

Taehyung inspected the bedding mat enveloping him, pondering its purpose. Despite his uncertainty, he found the warmth comforting and chose not to resist.

"Go to rest," Seokjin murmured, patting Taehyung's head before stepping back. Yet, he barely moved away when the sound of rustling reached his ears. Turning, he saw Taehyung rising from the bed once more.

It became clear that tonight, Taehyung would not allow him to depart easily. With a resigned sigh, Seokjin returned the Wolfian to the bed, settling down on the floor beside him. He hoped that by mimicking slumber, Taehyung might understand that it was indeed time for rest.

Seokjin closed his eyes and turned away, his breaths gradually slowing to a tranquil rhythm. However, after a few moments of stillness, he heard the sound of movement again. With one eye cautiously opened, he found Taehyung circling him on the floor, resembling a predator assessing its prey.

A tense apprehension gripped Seokjin, worries swirling in his mind about Taehyung's instincts possibly leading to an attack.

Fortunately, Taehyung halted his circling and settled down beside Seokjin on the floor. But instead of surrendering to sleep, he maintained his gaze upon the older man, observing closely how someone so similar in appearance could appear in slumber.

Feeling the weight of Taehyung's unwavering scrutiny, Seokjin finally abandoned his pretense of sleep and sat up. Startled by the sudden movement, Taehyung jumped back, emitting a soft growl, as if to implore Seokjin to return to rest.

Seokjin sighed heavily, realizing the night was stretching endlessly before him, and he had yet to attend to his responsibilities. He needed to review the week's transactions, tally the profits and losses, and prepare reports for the merchants awaiting his updates. Additionally, there were pending matters regarding the shipment of goods, along with the accounts that required his meticulous attention.

"Please, take your rest," Seokjin said gently, gesturing towards the bed once more.

Understanding the meaning behind the gesture, Taehyung obediently leaped back onto the bed. Seokjin did not hesitate, swiftly tucking him in with gentle care. The entire process left Seokjin feeling as though he were coaxing a reluctant child to sleep.

"Do you feel uneasy with me here? Is that why you cannot rest?" he asked gently, trying to understand Taehyung's feelings.

Yet Taehyung remained silent, his inability to express himself leaving Seokjin feeling increasingly helpless in this situation. Seokjin took a seat on the edge of the bed, his gaze steady on the young Wolfian, searching for any sign of understanding.

After a moment of exchanging silent glances, the calmness of the room began to wrap around Taehyung like a gentle embrace. Gradually, he curled up beneath the blanket, his body relaxing into the warmth as he surrendered to the exhaustion that had overtaken him.

Seokjin observed in quiet contemplation as the Wolfian drifted into sleep. He pondered whether Taehyung simply lacked experience with the world or if he was overly confident in his abilities. The fact that Taehyung could rest so openly without an ounce of vigilance in the presence of someone he scarcely knew, was truly remarkable.

Exhaling a breath of relief, Seokjin quietly slipped out of the room. He instructed the servants to remain vigilant throughout the night, ensuring they would alert him immediately should Taehyung awaken.

After receiving their acknowledgments, Seokjin took a quick bath prepared by the servants, changing into a fresh set of garments that felt revitalizing against his skin. Refreshed, he retired to the study, ready to catch up on the work that had awaited him earlier in the day.

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¹ Apothecaries were historical practitioners who prepared and sold medicines and herbal remedies.