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For some reason, Hugeng felt like home.
From the very first moment he had appeared before young master of Kongsang, he gave away that comforting feeling that made you want to run up to him and hide in his embraсe, as if it would erase every problem that young master had to face. Hugeng’s words of support, his unconditional loyalty and willingness to help made young master feel safer, stronger. With the very first Food Soul of Kongsang at their side, the loneliness they felt became a little less, and the pain of losing bonds with precious friends dulled.
In a sense, Hugeng was also young master’s hope and strength.
Back when they sat there, on the floor, like a lost child, Hugeng was the one to extend his hand and help the young master stand up. He was the one who remembered, the one who, by pure chance, was left at their side at the time of need.
Hugeng knew how important it was. And, perhaps, that's why his reassurance worked so well — he, himself, was forgotten and left in a slumber for a long time.
Hugeng felt like home, and the young master of Kongsang was more than willing to believe his new — old — attendant's every word. Even though they did not remember their past with him, young master felt the familiar bond between them. The warmth of Hugeng’s hand felt quite nostalgic, too.
"Just as Hugeng always remembers me, and I will always remember Hugeng from now as well", — it was but a mutter, a vow to oneself said aloud to act like a charm as the young master enjoyed the tea served by his loyal attendant.
Hugeng smiled, a faint blush spreading across his cheeks at the sudden comment. Was the young master reminiscing on their first meeting? It was not too long ago, so, perhaps, they still felt a pang of guilt from not remembering him. It was not the young master’s fault, of course, as they were simply too young to remember, but Hugeng knew they would not listen to this reason.
Just as he knew what to say next.
"It is a promise, then. No matter what happens, we will always have each other in heart and mind", — he plucked a feather from his wing so effortlessly, making the young master wince — it must have hurt a lot, but Hugeng placed the feather into their hand so readily, as if he was ready to offer himself in all entirety should young master wish it.
"This feather in your hands will be the symbol of our promise."
For some reason, this readiness always made young master sad.
As much as Hugeng was their home, they wanted to be his shelter, too.
If only he would let them.