Day 1. Arrival - Date Unknown, Mid-15th Century Joseon Dynasty
The initial shock of arriving in an entirely different era took a moment to wear off. As I stepped out into the surroundings, the first thing that caught my attention was the stunning architecture. The Hanok houses were everywhere, each structure delicately built, showing harmony between man-made designs and nature. Each roof curved elegantly, and the wooden pillars and intricate lattice work demonstrated the craftsmanship of this era. The courtyards within seemed to perfectly capture the spirit of the outside world, almost as if a small slice of nature was contained within each home.
Walking further, I realized I was in Hanyang. What once was modern-day Seoul now stood as a testament to history. The streets were bustling with people going about their day. They were dressed in hanboks, with vibrant shades of blues, reds, greens, and yellows. Children played in the streets, while elders chatted and merchants shouted about their wares.
The people couldn't help but gaze at me. My attire and demeanor must have been as outlandish to them as theirs was to me. Their eyes held curiosity, perhaps even suspicion, but also a warm hospitality. A few brave souls approached me, attempting to converse. The Korean language I heard was different from the one I knew. It held an older, more poetic cadence. Recognizing words was one thing, but understanding the full context of the archaic language was another challenge altogether.
I decided to immerse myself further in the culture by exploring the marketplace. Here, the vibrancy of the Joseon era was on full display. I saw stalls selling traditional medicines, silk fabrics, ceramics, and even early versions of Korean street food. It was hard to resist the aroma of the freshly prepared dishes, and I sampled a few. The flavors were both familiar and unique, reminiscent of dishes I knew but with an authentic, historical twist.
As evening approached, the streets took on a calmer hue. Families gathered in their courtyards, and the atmosphere was serene. I found a quiet spot to reflect upon the day. The sun setting against the backdrop of the Hanok rooftops created a picturesque scene.
Before retiring for the night, I practiced a few phrases in the older Korean dialect, preparing for further interactions in the days to come. The last thought before drifting into sleep was of the immense responsibility to respect and protect the sanctity of this time, ensuring my presence doesn’t disturb the natural course of events.
The night was filled with dreams of palaces, scholars, and stories of a great king who was bringing forth a new script for his people. The sights and sounds of Hanyang, the heart of the Joseon Dynasty, remained vivid even in slumber.