Our Queen Aera's soulmate and to our King Jaehyun, Aera will always be his greatest and forever love
but at the same time, she is his greatest sorrow
Jaehyun is, and has always been lucky that he had support from the people he loves - he received helping hands on raising his 6 kids, the people who helped him has been personally approached by Aera herself, back when she was still in Wonderland
Aera and Jaehyun are like star-crossed lovers, circumstances doesn't allow them to be together
honestly, Jaehyun doesn't take it well for like a few years - according to the Neo royal housemaids and royal knights, whenever they walked passed King Jaehyun's room, there are days that they could hear muffled cries and other days they would hear objects being thrown here and there followed by loud screams of frustration.
everyone kind of knew what or whom made him all crazy and thank goodness the children weren't in the palace during these days - those days were called as 'one of those nights' by Jaehyun
and those nights continued until his condition got worse with Jaehyun falling really sick and somehow his 'vampire' side out of nowhere came alive which was him craving for blood so bad for unknown reason
hence he unknowingly drank blood of the royal housemaids in result of killing them - as traumatizing as this sounds, the twins Jinyoung and Junyoung who were just 16, kind of figured out what their father has been going through after noticing more royal housemaids going missing
with the help of the twins along with Aeria as the older sister guided them with the studies of healing from cosmic energy, as well Jia's cordial, Jaehyun finally felt much better - receiving the positive energy thanks to the his children
fast forward, because of that incident, Jaehyun felt guilty of what he has done at the same time, he felt like he made Aera and the kids disappointed - so he decided to do what Aera has always been doing, even when she settled down
which was to help the people all around Wonderland who are suffering with different issues, hence Jaehyun brings along with the eldest two of the Jung siblings to help settle issues that was occuring in Wonderland - they sail all around Wonderland and went to wars (and this was after defeating the great battle of the Ice Warlock)
and also, with the help of his brothers - mainly Yuta, Winwin, Lucas, Renjun, Jeno and Jaemin, he set up a business & law firm known as JUNG Corporation.
The company provides services regarding accounting and consultations, providing assistance to the ones in need regarding healthcare and education.
♥ Jung Junwon Peter
Jung Junwon Peter, well-known as both Prince Peter and Prince Junwon, is a remarkable young man with a striking appearance and a sense of responsibility beyond his years. As the firstborn son of King Jaehyun and Queen Aera, he carries the weight of expectations and the role of leader for the Jung siblings. At 23 years old, Junwon embodies the title of "golden boy," originally bestowed upon him due to his naturally golden hair, which has since transformed into a slightly dirty blonde shade.
Physically, Junwon is a blend of his parents' features, creating a captivating and unique appearance. While he inherited Jaehyun's eyes initially, over time, they have taken on a resemblance to Aera's, causing confusion even among the other members of the royal family. It is as if Junwon embodies the best qualities of both his parents, both in terms of appearance and strength. He shares his mother's fortitude and his father's determination, which has proven invaluable in his participation in numerous battles alongside his father and sister.
Despite being revered by many as the golden boy, Junwon remains humble and clueless when it comes to matters of the heart. While his good looks may lead others to assume he has been in relationships, the truth is that he is completely inexperienced and often oblivious to romantic advances. His sisters, Aeria and Jia, worry about his lack of knowledge in this area and have taken it upon themselves to offer guidance through personal discussions.
A gentleman and mature man in public, Junwon's true nature shines through when he is with his family. Although he can be a bit rough with his brothers, he deeply cares for them. His softer side emerges when he interacts with his sisters, but it is Jia who holds a special place in his heart. Junwon's affection for Jia is evident, and he finds himself acting like a fool for her.
Brave and adventurous like his mother, Junwon has proven his mettle by fighting in countless battles alongside his father and sister. One particular accomplishment he takes pride in is his involvement in the slaying of the red-eyed alpha king. He once used to be a Mummy's boy, but with Aera's return to Earth, Junwon has found solace and inspiration in looking up to Jaehyun. Despite his mother's absence, Junwon never resents her, believing that she is always watching over him from afar.
While Junwon is initially destined to follow in his father's footsteps as the next crowned prince, his future path remains uncertain. Although he is expected to assume the role, Jaehyun, recognizing his son's potential, encourages him to pursue further studies instead, given his own good health and vitality. As a result, Junwon finds himself in a state of confusion, torn between his duty and his personal aspirations.
♥ Jung Aeria Venusia
Publicly known as both Princess Venusia or Princess Aeria, Jung Aeria Venusia is a captivating and radiant young woman who exudes beauty and possesses extraordinary powers, much like her mother, Queen Aera. As the first daughter of King Jaehyun and Queen Aera, Aeria, at 22 years old, embodies her mother's youthful traits, characterized by her breathtaking appearance and a touch of rebelliousness.
Inheriting her mother's force-field generation ability and cosmic energy, Aeria's powers were no surprise to her family, as Aera had forewarned them of her daughter's unique abilities. Physically, Aeria is a mirror image of her mother during her younger years, which only enhances her allure. However, as she grew older, Aeria also developed a nurturing and motherly nature, taking on the responsibility of caring for her younger siblings, Yoel, Jia, and the twins.
Aeria's childhood was marked by her love for cooking and a fondness for gardening, which showcased her nurturing side and her connection with nature. She stepped into her mother's shoes to provide care and guidance for her siblings, especially during challenging times when her brother Yoel faced difficulties with his home-schooling. A fierce advocate for her brother, Aeria fearlessly confronted the professors in Neo, unknowingly revealing her glowing pink eyes—a testament to her immense power.
Being a spitting image of her mother, Aeria possesses a deep admiration for Aera, which earned her the title of a true Mummy's girl. She constantly looks up to her mother, even during Aera's absence, thanks to the stories shared by their father and the support of their extended family, including the Neo uncles and Morian aunties. Consequently, Aeria harbors no resentment or hatred toward her mother, fostering a deep sense of love and respect.
At the tender age of 14, Aeria experienced a powerful connection with her mother when she managed to communicate with her while Aera was on Earth. However, the strain of channeling such immense power resulted in Aeria falling gravely ill the next day. Determined not to succumb to sadness, Aeria believes that expressing sorrow weakens her powers, a belief reinforced by past experiences when her powers diminished after her first heartbreak involving Prince Jaebeom's son.
Aeria's resemblance to her mother extends beyond her physical appearance, as she has also engaged in battles alongside her older brother and father. However, her powers manifest in a distinctive pinkish glow, setting her apart from Aera's signature red glows. Despite her exceptional abilities and adventures, Aeria has also experienced the ups and downs of teenage romance. She was in a relationship with Prince Jaebeom's son, Lim Leon Juno, which was marked by their on-again, off-again dynamic, becoming the talk of their school before Aeria set sail for other parts of Wonderland, leaving her education behind.
♥ Jung Yoel Evander
Jung Yoel Evander, publicly known both as Prince Evander and Prince Yoel, the second son of King Jaehyun and Queen Aera, possesses a striking resemblance to his mother and holds a unique place within the royal family as the middle child. At 20 years old, Yoel is shy around strangers but maintains impeccable politeness, earning him admiration from royal princesses and girls in general. His demeanor exudes a prince-like quality, characterized by his reserved nature and the ability to speak only when necessary.
While Yoel may be reserved with outsiders, he displays a different side with his own family. Known for his sharp wit and sarcastic comments, he doesn't hesitate to engage in banter or share his opinions. This occasionally leads to stubbornness, especially when clashing with his older brother, Junwon. Yoel possesses his father's deep laughter and the frowns that reflect Jaehyun's contemplative nature.
Yoel plays a vital role as Junwon's right-hand man and has proven himself to be a skilled swordsman, earning the approval of both Junwon and their father, King Jaehyun. During their school days, Yoel would stand by Junwon's side, supporting him in fights that arose due to others mocking the belief in their mother's existence. This unwavering loyalty showcases Yoel's strong bond with his family.
In addition to his familial relationships, Yoel shares a close friendship with Lee Yujin Anaria, the daughter of Taeyong and Aurelia, as well as Moon Taegeun Scorpio, the son of Taeil and Queen Zelenia. His polite and gentlemanly demeanor adds to his charm, reflected in his habit of placing his hands behind his back.
Yoel possesses extensive knowledge of mystical creatures and has a special connection with them. His childhood best friends include a dragon named Green, a gift from Grandma Kim, and a gryphon named Speed, bestowed upon him by Queen Aerina. These mythical creatures have become a significant part of Yoel's life, offering companionship and aid when needed.
Participating only in the great battle against the Ice Warlock and Aerina's royal household, Yoel proved his mettle alongside his older siblings. This battle held immense significance as many of Aerina's citizens from previous generations were lost. Yoel's life was nearly taken during this encounter, saved by Green the dragon and supported by Speed the gryphon, as well as the intervention of the twins. Although injured deeply, Yoel's life was saved through Jia's healing powers and Junyoung's assistance.
However, due to the traumatic experience, King Jaehyun forbid Yoel from returning to the battlefield. Unaware of the true reason behind his father's decision, Yoel believes he is being treated as a child, leading to disagreements between him and Jaehyun. These conflicts further fuel Yoel's desire to prove himself as a capable and independent individual.
Furthermore, Yoel serves as an assistant to Jia in caring for the twins, the sons of King Jaehyun and Queen Aera. This responsibility demonstrates Yoel's nurturing side and his commitment to supporting his family in any way he can.
♥ Jung Jia Valentia
Known as Princess Valentia and Princess Jia, Jung Jia Valentia, the second and youngest daughter of King Jaehyun and Queen Aera, is a 19-year-old with a unique blend of characteristics inherited from both her parents. With a face shape and nose resembling her mother's, Jia holds a special place in Jaehyun's heart, who fondly bops her nose as a child. Her appearance reflects a mixture of both her parents, showcasing their shared traits.
Jia possesses a charming and slightly flirtatious nature, which makes her charismatic and captivating to others. However, she also experiences moments of introversion, becoming more reserved. Her casual demeanor towards everyone often requires Yoel's guidance in matters of royal etiquette.
Compassion and empathy define Jia's character, as she is filled with a deep concern for the well-being of others. She demonstrates a shy nature but displays a boost in confidence when she feels comfortable in her surroundings. Jia is also known to be somewhat sensitive, making her highly attuned to the emotions of those around her.
Faith plays a significant role in Jia's life, particularly when it comes to magic and her belief in her mother's return. Jia vividly dreams about her mother, witnessing Aera surrounded by children. Seeking answers, she visits the Athenian palace to consult her cousin and best friend, Moon Taeri Celeste, daughter of Taeil and Queen Zelenia. Taeri confirms the truth of Jia's dreams, explaining that Aera is currently on Earth but it is not yet time for her to return to Wonderland. This revelation strengthens Jia's faith, and she patiently awaits her mother's eventual return, even if it takes centuries.
Currently on a break after graduating from high school, Jia aspires to assist the royal family while planning to continue her education next year. Her desire leads her to enroll in her Uncle Doyoung's renowned school, where she intends to study astronomy, inspired by her sister, and delve into the studies of magical creatures and magic in general.
Jia's love for animals is boundless, including even the creatures that many dislike, such as snakes, spiders, and insects. She shares a passion for caring for and understanding animals, drawing her towards a future career as a veterinarian. Despite people assuming she would pursue prestigious roles like a royal doctor or high-class jobs, Jia's true calling lies in nurturing and healing the animal kingdom.
Not only is Jia known for her unique appearance, particularly her naturally born orange hair, but she has also gained recognition for her exceptional academic achievements. Throughout her high school years, Jia consistently earned straight A's, establishing a reputation for academic excellence.
♥ Jung Jinyoung Jonah
Jung Jinyoung Jonah, also known as Prince Jonah and Prince Jinyoung, is an 18-year-old fraternal twin to Jung Junyoung Joel, who is known as 'Jinnie' by his twin. With a striking resemblance to his father Jaehyun, Jinyoung carries a blend of Jaehyun's features with a touch of Aera's sharpness. He exudes a bad boy persona, being labeled as the tsundere and mysterious one among the Jung siblings.
Sporting full sleeve tattoos on his arms, Jinyoung intimidates everyone around him, including the royal housemaids. His piercing gaze and perpetually clenched jaw give him an air of unhappiness, leading others to fear his presence. However, behind this façade, Jinyoung is exceptionally observant, often saving the housemaids from potential trouble caused by royal guests, a role they are unaware he fulfills.
The garden holds a special place in Jinyoung's heart, where he finds solace and ease. It was a space he and his siblings once shared, spending time together, having tea, and indulging in gardening activities. Resembling his father, Jinyoung possesses Jaehyun's intense eyes, which can mirror cold gazes and annoyance, much like a viral video of Jaehyun at an airport, enduring fan invasions.
Jinyoung frequently finds himself in trouble with professors, particularly during his time at Neo Palace. He shares a strong dislike for the royal system, knowing that his mother was forced to return home, which fuels his resentment towards the royal family. However, he remains unaware of the circumstances surrounding his mother's departure.
Like his oldest sister and mother, Jinyoung possesses extraordinary powers. Specifically, he wields cosmic energy, similar to his sister Aeria, but his abilities mainly revolve around manipulating others. He possesses formidable telepathic powers, distinguishing him from his older siblings. Jinyoung's reservations with strangers, particularly those from royal families, translate into an indifference towards nobles and royal highnesses, earning him labels such as "rude," "arrogant," and a "heartbreaker."
Currently residing in Athenian Palace, where his uncle Taeil and his family reside, Jinyoung enjoys a break from school. He attends the School of Neo, along with his twin, as members of the House of Aerina. The strained relationship with his father, King Jaehyun, serves as another reason for his stay in Athenian Palace. Jinyoung feels that Jaehyun has been absent during critical moments in his life, though Jaehyun persistently attempts to soothe his son's heart. Interestingly, Jinyoung possesses the power to manipulate his father mentally, adding another layer of complexity to their relationship.
While he may project a rough and closed-hearted exterior, Jinyoung shares a deep bond with his siblings, albeit in his own unique ways. He listens to Grandma Kim, Aeria, and Jia, valuing their guidance. Despite enjoying teasing Jia, he is exceptionally close to her. Additionally, his similarities with Yoel bring them closer, though Yoel embodies a softer personality, contrasting Jinyoung's roughness. Lastly, Jinyoung's twin, Junyoung, holds an irreplaceable place in his life, as Jinyoung cannot imagine a day without his presence.
Ultimately, only those closest to him truly understand Jinyoung's character. Behind the rough exterior lies someone who harbors a deep desire to help those in need, a trait that emerges when given the opportunity to showcase his true nature.
♥ Jung Junyoung Joel
Publicly known as both Prince Joel and Prince Junyoung, JungJunyoung Joel, also affectionately known as "Junnie," is the youngest of the Jung siblings and the younger twin of Jung Jinyoung Jonah. With his bright-colored hair, particularly platinum blonde, Junyoung stands out as the brighter and more carefree twin. In his early years, there were jokes about him being swapped with one of Doyoung's children due to his unique hair color. However, his resemblance to his parents became evident as he grew older, sporting Aera's eyes during infancy, which eventually transformed into a resemblance to Jaehyun.
Known for his fashion sense, Junyoung inherits his father's impeccable style. He is also the more exuberant and boisterous twin, often heard laughing or loudly expressing himself while playing board games or video games with the generals. His infectious laughter and passionate outbursts are reminiscent of Jaehyun to the extent that Neo royal housemaids mistook Junyoung's presence for that of King Jaehyun himself.
Junyoung assumes the role of mediator between Jinyoung and those with whom his twin has conflicts. Whenever Jaehyun and Jinyoung argue, Junyoung finds himself in the middle, utilizing his powers to separate and defuse the situation. However, he often faces scolding for using his powers on his father, even though he takes it lightly and doesn't let negative or disheartening words affect him. Junyoung possesses an uncanny ability to let negative words pass through one ear and out the other, refusing to let them take root in his heart.
The bond between Junyoung and Jinyoung is unbreakable, as wherever Jinyoung is, Junyoung is sure to follow. They are inseparable, despite Jinyoung occasionally complaining about Junyoung being a troublemaker. Both twins possess the same powers: cosmic energy manipulation, but Junyoung is less skilled in the manipulation aspect. However, his exceptional ability lies in clairvoyance, granting him the power to see things from a distance and perceive events beyond his immediate surroundings. This ability allows him to catch glimpses of their mother on Earth, though he is aware of the dangers of interfering in the mortal realm.
In addition to clairvoyance, Junyoung has inherited his mother's healing abilities, capable of restoring health to living beings. He also shares strong telepathic powers with Jinyoung, enabling him to hear his twin's thoughts from a distance. Their connection runs deep, and Junyoung can sense Jinyoung's presence even when they are physically apart. Together, they possess remarkable power, as demonstrated when they intervened to stop their father, Jaehyun, from succumbing to his bloodlust during a period of intense grief. Jinyoung forcefully put Jaehyun to sleep, while Junyoung expended tremendous energy to heal their father, enduring physical strain in the process.
Currently residing in Athenian Palace, where their father, Junwon, and Aeria have sailed to different parts of the islands, Junyoung and Jinyoung remain inseparable. Junyoung frequently visits Yoel and Jia in Neo Palace, participating in various activities and social gatherings with his cousins. He often brings Jinyoung along, particularly for grand dinners or birthday celebrations organized by their extended family.
Junyoung serves as the bridge between Jinyoung and everything that Jinyoung deems unnecessary to know. While Jinyoung maintains a rocky relationship with Jaehyun, Junyoung harbors deep affection for his father. He acts as a messenger, conveying Jinyoung's feelings and health updates to Jaehyun. Junyoung also endeavors to help Jaehyun soothe Jinyoung's heart, although he sometimes struggles to understand his twin's emotions due to Jinyoung's self-imposed mental barriers.
Pairing : prince!jeno x princess!reader. Lee jaein - Lee jeno's twin!
Genre : fluff, angst , modern royalty! Arrange marriage au, Strangers to ??? Smut? Would think abt it bt if it's there, I'd make sure it's nt connected to any scene and easily skippable.
Word count : ~ 5k? Certainty of surpassing the projected word count. YES THE TEASER IS LONG.
Prompt :: I never meant to hurt you.
A/n : this is a modern royalty piece written as a part of candy heart Collab by dear @127-mile .
Taglist : @/ncteaxhoe @/hunjins. Send ask/dm/comment if u wish!
Release date : lover's day. Edit : on 15/16 bcs i got sick
Summary : y/n was supposed to be married to Lee jaein, the oldest prince and the heir to the throne. Her heart didn't yearn for him but she knew that one day, it would definitely. Thoughts and suppressed unknown feelings were all she had while preparing to be a queen of the small kingdom. The day ending her wait never comes, the news of death does.
Bind by the customs and duties, how she would find peace when she's married off to the twin brother of the man who's portrait she had cherished for two years.
Was Lee jeno ready to replace his brother?
Was she ready to give her piece of heart to someone who was never meant to have it?
( italics are memories)
Apparently, the progression into the twenty-first century is not good enough of an excuse for absolving the old practices.
Royals are born in traditions, they live with them and die too. Royals bend for none. So do their customs.
This, the rationale you were raised with, had never been the object of contention in your family. Royalty was a crown in itself and you had lived wearing it and you’d die carrying it. There was no escape and not that you sought any.
The only phenomenon you had been taught to bow to was nature and that was the very reason why you were standing in front of your exotically dark finished, extraordinarily carved ivory wood dressing mirror, fitted in a beautiful masterpiece crafted from the finest silk and satin. To make your wedding dress royal worthy, precious gemstones that were hardly visible on white and a white gold diamond embellished the hand stitched zari embroidered piece. The cathedral train and boat neck were doing nothing but complimenting the details.
It looked ethereal.
You looked like the prettiest bride.
But the way the emerald drop necklace sat on your bare neck, it felt like a noose. All that glitters is not gold, as taught by your grandfather, has always acted as the driving force for the deferential life you lived but in the current moment, the proverb has hit you right in the gut, the reason being the strict interpretation of the words in your situation. You were adorned in glitters and gold. Always had been. Nothing of the heaviness of the dress or jewellery was new yet it was weighing tons, as if you were robbed of the metallic senses you grew up with. The corset, strangling your rib cage, wasn't letting you breathe.
"Sit y/n."
Following your mother's command, you sat down on the cushioned vanity chair and the spare cloth was sidelined by the maids. Looking through the mirror, you watched her fingers caressing the queen's emerald crown. Gently picking it up from the maroon velvet case, her hands reached atop your head. A maid tucked some strands of your hair behind your ear for comfortable access.
The crown, once placed on your hair, was shifted with minimum force for required adjustments.
The new addition weighs you down even more as your shoulders slump in indescribable defeat.
You always knew the day would come.
Then why this unknown feeling was so irrepressible.
Is this what the wedding jitters were called?
Or was it something else?
Were you even allowed to feel anything?
What would your mother say if she identified the cause of your frequent disconnection with reality.
Your own mirror seemed to be mocking you.
or was it the portrait that stared you down?
Three years ago
"Why does this portrait have to be here? Do you want me to replicate it for the wedding night gift?"
Eighteen year old you has shouted her lungs out at her mother upon seeing a random canvas in your room. Well, it was not random. It was jaein's. Prince jaein's! The man you were destined to marry. You had no problem with the man himself, given that you were aware of your marriage arrangements. But why you had to be reminded of something everyday that you were going to face anyway. It was not like the absence of the portrait would have ended the fixed fate. You never intended to do so. After all, you loved your status and the respect it gave you. Having an affair or marrying a civilian had never ever crossed your mind. The mere thought of leaving everything behind was simply scary and being the oldest daughter of the king, you were obliged not to taint the honour of your father's crown.
You were not an ordinary citizen so your life wasn't just yours and you were never concerned about that either. But why should you be seeing the face of a man daily when you'd not be able to communicate with him?
"Have some authority in your voice while speaking. The maids are still here to witness your imprudent behaviour. And you know it's a tradition to have the portrait of the prince to be placed in the bride's chambers. Don't forget you chose him yourself. Let him occupy some space in your room and maybe in your heart too."
You had obliged. Throughout your home graduation, you had spent every day and night with the smiley portrait of the handsome prince. Occasionally, you'd find yourself immersed in his dark brown eyes, his boyish features pulling you in to touch the dried paint with a faint hope that maybe he'd come alive. You used to laugh at yourself for such petty thoughts. Sometimes you'd think if your portrait had managed to lure him just as his did to you.
Were you perhaps falling for a pair of eyes, devoid of any emotion.
No, you weren't.
He was just a portrait but with a future.
With you.
As you got busy with educating yourself with the responsibilities you'd be faced with as the wife of the oldest son, you found yourself immersing in the world you were yet to become a part of.
One year ago.
"Prince jaein expired last night in a helicopter clash. The public is requested to participate in a week-long mourning."
For that day, you forgot how to even breathe. The news that had flashed in every device of your chambers had forced you to lock yourself in your room for that night. Blankly staring at the man sized painted photo, you made no attempt at hiding the grief you felt for the man you had never met. Nothing but a mutual expectation of a union had stringed you both into each other's heart. No affections. No romance. No longing.
But something was there.
The Ending of one has ripped the stitches from both sides.
At the end of the next day, the portrait was removed and the space was left empty again.
After a month, a new painting had entered your peaceful abode. Amusingly, replacements were not hard to find! Even of humans.
Head tilted, you found yourself staring into the same pair of eyes. The similarity with the previous one was almost dangerous. They were the same yet distinct.
Under the foot of the canvas were the signatures, another reminder of the new future you were getting thrown into.
Lee jeno,
The prince.
"You look beautiful y/n. Be mindful of your steps while walking. You cannot afford to lower the prestige of the family." She ordered in a stoic manner.
Biting your lip, you couldn't stop yourself from asking the one question.
"Mom. Would I be able to do it?" The nervousness was melting through your words.
"Queen, y/n. Not mom. You are going to be one as well. Learn to not disrespect the title ever and certainly not in front of civilians."
You mentally scoffed at her professionalism that seemed to eclipse her responsibility as your mother.
Raising yourself from the chair, you turned to face your mother, a low smile gracing your lips.
"Shall we go y/n. King is waiting for you." She addressed you. Gulping down the embarrassment, you, towering over her with the length of your heels, replied courteously,
"Princess, your highness. And a queen to be. Respect for my title is the last thing I ask of you."
Without gauging her reaction, you picked your dress up with your fingers and trudged outside with grace.
To the man who was waiting for you.
To the man who was never meant to wait for you.
If u wish to be added to the taglist, please comment/send ask/dm me.
Genre: Uhm. Kinda everything, from angst through fluff to smut
Word count: 10k
Pairing: Prince!Jaehyun x Mafia!Reader
Warning: Cursing, underage smoking, drinking, use of drugs, even more cursing, smut in upcoming chapters. There’s a lot and I might have left some out oops.
Summary: You were polar opposites. He was royalty, you were a criminal. You hated him, he hated you. This mission was the last thing any of you wanted, but you had to make it work. But could you?
TW: domestic abuse, violence
a/n: hello to every single one of you<3 so here we are again. me being ridiculously late, and you being like “wait whats this fanfic again i dont remember” hnng. SO here is part 5 of dangerously:) i promised a double update - which is going to happen. this is part 5, and i think next week ill upload part 6. i hope that’s alright:) (the whole chapter was 20k but i think its more reasonable if i upload it in two parts). Thank you so so so much for all the people that reminded me to keep going and keep writing. to everyone who likes this mess of words i manage to put together. i love you all, from the bottom of my heart.
also, i put a keep reading thingy on. i pray it works.
Previously:
It all went down in slow motion. The dancefloor of the gigantic room cleared out, the remaining guests pushing themselves up against the walls. Pure terror was written all over their faces, at the scene that played in the very middle of the room.
Prince Chenle stood there.
With a knife at his throat.
And at the end of the knife, the person who was holding it… Junhui.
You stopped breathing as you took in his face, took in that familiar, sharp smile. As your eyes met with Yukhei’s from across the room, you were certain he was horrified, just as much as you.
They were here.
The Black Spade was here.
The air was stiff, tense; you felt the droplet of sweat on your neck before it had a chance to slide down. You were aware of everything suddenly, the sharp breaths of the elite guests, the faint clinking of your jewellery, the clamminess of your palms as you tightened your fist. You were in deep shit and you had a vague idea of what the outcome might be if you didn’t think of a solution quick enough.
It’s been three years since you saw any member of the Black Spade.
Not like you regretted it, or that you had wished to see them. It simply made you nervous, made you hyper-aware of your surroundings. Now, that one of them – if not all – is in the same room as you, some sort of perverse euphoria took over your brain, that they see you, and they want to kill you, and they have no idea how much can be done in the span of three years.
“Long time no see, beautiful,” drifted Junhui’s voice, and you swore the blood froze in your veins. His ashy hair fell into his eyes as he tilted his head slightly, his cupid’s bow-like lips curling into a vicious, Cheshire-cat smile. He looked different since the last time you saw him, but if it surprised you, the feeling slid away into a secluded, subconscious part of your brain. It was not the appropriate time to think about the appearance of a conman. It was never the same.
Even though he was standing far away from you, you felt feather-light touches caress your arms, ice-cold breath brushing your neck and even colder lips linger above your shoulder.
Mirroring his expression, you placed your weight on your right leg and cocked your waist out. The dress shifted around your legs, the slit moving so that your left leg was let bare. You replaced your shocked expression with one of confidence, of piercing ice.
“Let the prince go, Junhui,” you breathed as you kept eye-contact with him, no matter the amount of memories and even more regrets flashing into your mind.
His grip tightened on the knife and Chenle hissed as a droplet of blood slid down on the front of his neck.
For fucks sake.
The youngest prince was supposed to be down in the basement along with his brother Donghyuck and Winwin…where are they? What happened to them?
You did not dare glancing up at the balcony, where Taeyong and Doyoung lay, scared that a single look might serve as a clue to the one of the conmen of the Black Spade.
“Come and take him, assassin,” mused Jun and you tilted your head to the side as invitation.
“Where is the rest of your precious little gang, Jun?” you asked, masking your voice with the similar silky tone the conman sported. He ran his eyes over your figure then, something like bizarre satisfaction flashing in the dark orbs.
“Three years ago,” Junhui purred, ignoring your question, as he flattened the blade on Chenle’s neck, “you pulled an impressive stunt.” You felt all eyes on you and him, the guests remaining backed up until the ivory and gold embroidered walls. You kept yourself straightened, focused on your breathing and let your hand linger around the dagger hidden under your dress.
“Don’t evade,” you said then, icy edge wedging itself between your words, “let the prince go and show your faces so we can settle this properly.”
A beat of silence, then Junhui craned his neck back as he let out a booming laugh. The knife tightened on Chenle’s neck and his panicked eyes searched yours.
“Settle this properly?” crowed Jun then before his lips curled back in a vicious snarl. You felt the whole room tense at the sheer animosity. “And what does this ‘settling’ mean for you, huh, dear? Shooting someone in the head? Or stabbing them in the neck, maybe blow their guts up with the help of your little arsonist?” his eyes narrowed into slits as he drank up your facial expression, “or does spreading your legs nice and wide does the job for everyone?”
You stopped breathing.
Talk.
This is all talk, and he talked too much –
Stalling. Was he stalling?
You didn’t dare look up at the balcony, it would just give him an idea of Taeyong’s and Doyoung’s whereabouts…
“That’s quite enough, Jun,” a voice sounded then, echoing through the deadly silent ballroom.
A figure emerged, muscular and clad in black. His hair was smoothed back onto his scalp, revealing a creaseless forehead and bedroom eyes, wide and dark. An easy, light-hearted smile coated his lips and his name flashed in your mind immediately.
Seungcheol.
Then you felt a presence at your back, a whiff of spicy cologne and smoke – Taeyong stepped beside you. You felt a wave of relief wash over you, with enough force to blacken your senses for a single second. But Taeyong didn’t look at you, didn’t even graze his fingers against yours, his gaze was fixated on the rival gang’s leader and conman.
Rage rippled off him – you felt it, Jun felt it, and you reckoned that the entire room felt it too. It was quiet and icy, cold enough to freeze lakes over.
“We didn’t come to fight tonight,” Seungcheol said then. His voice was deep and rough, embers of arrogant authority sizzling. You cringed and watched the knife at Chenle’s neck.
“Of course, you didn’t,” breezed Taeyong, his crimson hair smoothed back, emphasizing his elegantly tilted cat-like eyes, flashing, “you hold daggers to princes’ necks for the laugh.”
Seungcheol let out a deep chuckle and Junhui grinned, tightening his grip.
“You are slick ones, you know,” the Black Spade’s leader said, leisurely placing his hands in his pockets. A move of superiority. A move of arrogance. “We managed to catch this little one here only, the rest – “
He looked at you then, his depthless black eyes raking over your form smoothly and you forced yourself not to flinch.
“– scattered. Like underground rats.”
As if on command, tiny red dots flashed up on their skin – not yours or Taeyong’s but the others, and it took them a whole ten seconds to realize it.
And when they did, you managed to grin as if you had been planning it all along.
“Rats, you say?” you hummed and dared a glance behind Seungcheol and Junhui – where Yukhei was supposed to be but you found nothing other than an empty macaron plate. He managed to get out – through the servant corridors.
“Let go of the prince, Junhui,” Taeyong said then, his voice barely louder than a faint whisper, but much, much more powerful.
The conman and his leader exchanged a quick glance before Jun lifted the dagger from Chenle’s neck and pushed the princeling away from him. He stumbled but didn’t fall and his eyes found yours immediately. It took Chenle no time to be at your side, his breathing and legs shaky. You grabbed his wrist and manoeuvred yourself in front of him.
“Consider this a warning,” Seungcheol murmured then, “we see and hear everything, and remember, the blade of the spade cuts the snake’s head off.”
You fought the urge to roll your eyes.
“Just take the rest of your ragtag and fuck off,” grumbled Taeyong and turning on his heels, walked out of the ballroom.
For a second you held Junhui’s eyes, then turning around you followed your leader, not letting the prince’s hand go.
You flinched, hard, when the double-winged door banged closed behind your back.
Three and a half hours, four shots of whisky and an entire pack of cigarettes later your fingers still seemed to tremble, and you considered chopping them off with one of Doyoung’s crooked daggers. This was after you finally stopped running your eyes over your family and the princes, looking for hidden injuries, panicked flashes in the eyes or a shaky breath – which you had found plenty. None of you changed out of your elegant clothing. If someone had walked into the suite with no knowledge or context regarding your history, they would have perceived the situation as something beautifully morbid. Suits were crumpled – the immaculacy only a tell-tale of what was supposed to happen, and the weapons scattered around the velvet sofas did not seem as intimidating as they should have been.
Chenle was sitting on a big, plush sofa – his entire body shaking, sweat dripping off his brows – Renjun and Jungwoo sat by him, encasing him with their bodies, wiping the cold beads from his eyes and neck. You swore you saw Jungwoo’s hand tremble the entire time.
Johnny ran his fingers through his hair – once brushed elegantly, now hanging low into his brows. His eyes kept going to his youngest brother, guilt glinting there now and then.
“We were right then,” he murmured, his voice hushed yet it seemed like a shout in the painfully quiet room, “it has been the Black Spade all along.”
Ten and Jeno exchanged glances and you hummed. The only noise coming out of you since you collapsed onto a couple-sofa with Winwin.
Maybe that was why Prince Yuta’s sharp eyes cut to your features immediately.
“Miss Assassin seemed to have a moment there,” you thought he wanted his voice to be threatening and reckoning but you felt nothing other than a hollow sort of static noise.
Taeyong turned towards the prince before exhaling a thick cloud of smoke that encased his face for a second.
“She owes no explanation, even for Your Highnesses.”
“Maybe she doesn’t,” Johnny said, his eyes now set on you hesitantly and you stared back with an empty expression, “but what if it has significance?”
Doyoung squinted.
“It doesn’t.”
“Maybe it does.”
“Trust me, it does not.”
Jaehyun drew in a sharp breath.
You didn’t look at him. Didn’t dare to or didn’t want to, that did not matter. You still felt the warmth of his breath on the tip of your nose.
“It might have some, though,” you interrupted, and everyone looked at you. Tilting your head back entirely, you rested it against the head of the loveseat and Winwin reached underneath the nape of your neck. You let out a small, thankful smile.
Sitting in the crossfire of burning gazes, you began to tell a story.
Everything has a start. The creation of Earth, the start of civilisations, kings and queens begin their lives as toddlers like everyone and everything else. Gangs, mafias don’t emerge the way they are now. They are not born as complete, safe empires. They crawl out as muddy and clawed hands; they pull themselves through sewers and tunnels and they scratch and cut themselves in the process – but it doesn’t matter because the purpose is stronger than the circumstance.
The journey is long – never ending. Your growth never stops, there is no limit of being better – or worse. And you believe you haven’t gone down the right path. But does being good mean being right? No one knows the answer to that.
You took a deep, deep breath before starting.
“There hasn’t always been war between the Black Spade and the Diamond Snake. In fact, it started off as something as close as a brotherhood. It crumbled three years ago – I believe people have heard about it. It was all over the media. Before that happened… Dear heavens, we were inseparable, we even thought about merging our gangs. I was nineteen at the time it all fell apart…an age where you ardently believe you are mature enough for whatever might come your way. The age when life seems to throw its heaviest and sharpest stones at you. Three years ago, our family was thriving already…but only because of Seungcheol’s – the Black Spade’s leader’s – help.”
“The Black Spade is a bit older than us. Even though we are around the same age, they began their businesses much earlier. They were already dealing serious things when we only ran around, wreaking havoc, stealing and just…living life at its fullest. In the foulest ways possible. It was Seungcheol who told Taeyong that he should get into similar business like him. I remember, he said something along the lines of: “There is potential in you, brother. Great potential.”
I was thirteen then. Taeyong was barely sixteen. We admired the way he built up something like a kingdom, we were there when the fundamental stones were placed down. So, we began to do the same. We built up bases, created businesses, recruited people. He stood with us the whole time, helping us, advising when we needed it.
For two years, everything went smoothly. I was already good at fighting – living on the streets isn’t the best thing for a girl. Especially in that part of the city. But Doyoung and I began to train, to be weapons, irreplaceable assets. We were trained by ex-assassins, spies, conmen, any person who has once been great, and had enough skill and power to make empires crumble into pieces. Working on the streets and in the underworld had its perks.
During those two years, the two gangs shared dreams. We had great plans…overly ambitious at the time but we were so determined – it was impossible to keep us down, to make us give up on those ambitions. It didn’t stray us that their gang structure was different from what we planned.”
You inhaled deeply and let out a shaky laugh. Winwin squeezed your shoulder.
“The Black Spade has a unique way of…working. I will try my best to tell you what I know about it.”
You looked around the room, sweeping your eyes over the princes and gang members. They huddled around you and drank up each word you said. As you looked at them you realised – for the first time, there was no place for anger, prejudice or even disgust in the room. The princes and gang members sat by each other one by one, brushing shoulders, crossing legs. Not enemies. Something close to acquaintances. Not friends yet, no… but you felt like you were on the right path towards that. Maybe this mission which became a catastrophic mess, the embodiment of your mutual enemy – this was perhaps what you needed most to be pushed together, to begin acting like an alliance instead of two reluctant parties forced into working together.
You continued with a small, bitter smile and tucked your trembling hands under your thighs.
“The Black Spade hits and runs, without lingering. When you realize what they have done…you feel numb and out of place. They work and move in sync, through careful planning and execution of strategy. In and out. They work for money, for men of status and they are not afraid to do the dirty work. They work long-term, taking down their prey over periods of times, working their ways into systems and hearts. This is exactly what they were becoming after that year. The inner circle had roles and jobs – just like us. But they are trained to do the dirtiest and foulest of works. We have spies – but they have conmen. Their names are Jeonghan and… and Junhui.”
You said the last name with a dying breath. Pressure held your throat together as you fought the urge to shake. Winwin’s pinkie finger began to trace calming patterns on your shoulders.
“They are worse than spies, they don’t get the information like us – by listening carefully and paying attention to details, or even hacking. No. They deceive you; they make you trust them; make you believe that they are more important than what you are truly protecting. They take the information, and they make sure to destroy you afterwards. Slow and steady. That was the path they started to follow. Their ambitions took a dark turn, one we were not willing to follow. Taeyong wasn’t, at least. More complications arose and more fights broke out between the two gangs. The last one was between Doyoung and Wonwoo, one of the Spades’ assassins. It turned bad…Both Yukhei and Taeyong were needed to hold Doyoung back, and Mingyu – another Spade assassin and Seungcheol, their leader, to keep Wonwoo from throwing daggers at Doyoung. It was a mess. Pure chaos.
That was when things turned around for us, we strayed apart from each other, went on different paths, different parts of the city. After another half a year, we started a race. To see who has more territory, more assets and influence over wealthy people. It was obvious, after a while, that they worked against us on purpose, but it was too late for them. We grew stronger, we knew their ways of working and we developed ours – a new system, something that was unfamiliar for them. That went on for…I believe I was almost eighteen when I met Junhui again. The last time I saw him was two-three years before that.”
Another breath. You felt your heart hammer against your chest as you tried desperately to calm it down by taking deep breaths. But it did not seem to work, and the dress started to feel tighter, more open – too revealing.
“I’d always found him attractive. So, when we met again accidentally on a mission, where both of us had the same target…those old emotions re-surfaced. For me, at least. One thing led to the other…The next thing I knew I was sneaking out of the Viper’s Pit, our home and headquarters, to meet up with him. I believe the thrill that we were lovers like Romeo and Juliet, from two families who have developed hatred toward one another, fired our emotions up. He was irresistible. I knew I was doing the wrong thing, deep inside me, but I felt like for once, I would be young and foolish. That I could afford it and could get away with it later. That even if it ends, if emotions die or our families find out, we have learned something new from each other, from the whole situation.”
“So, we continued meeting up. Secret rendezvous. We shared everything. Our pasts, our feelings, our deepest secrets and doubts.
Then one day, he started asking about things that weren’t related to my own feelings…he asked about the Snakes, first about how my relationship was with them, then slowly about how we work. And I was so in love, I was so sure that he wanted to know where I come from, where and how I live…I gave him everything he wanted to know.”
You took a breath. Then another. Then another.
And you swallowed back the lumps in your throat, because thinking about the mistakes you have made was much, much harder than you thought it would be. The barricades, the walls you have placed between your memories and your thoughts seemed to weaken as you talked about him. You saw a mixture of emotions when you looked around the room, ran your eyes through the princes and your family.
The young princes…their eyes were filled with held back emotions, sympathy and sorrow and something like understanding. They were young, too young to fully understand how it must have felt like to go through these things but…they were smart enough to comprehend other aspects of it. The choices, the danger of trusting and the importance of keeping vital information to yourself. To not let emotions come in the way of that.
Then you glanced over at the four older royals…their expressions were a haze, a mess of swirling emotions. It was so clear, in that moment, what each of them felt. As if everyone had dropped down their guards along with you.
Prince Johnny swallowed; you saw his throat bob as he looked away from your face – to stare at his own feet instead. Was it pity? You didn’t know, and you weren’t sure you desired to find out. Yuta’s expression was perhaps the most shocking one. He was leaning back on an armchair, his legs crossed and his head resting in his palm. In his eyes – a sharp glint of understanding. His bone-chilling attitude seemed to have melted in that moment. The edge didn’t leave his eyes but was joined with something new. Something soft and forgiving. Prince Jungwoo had a similar calculating look in his sweet, brown eyes. Although he wasn’t looking at you only. His eyes kept sweeping over your family, their expressions while listening to your story. The big picture.
Finally, you let yourself glance at Prince Jaehyun.
He stared at you, his face radiating nothing but pure curiosity and painful realisation - the information seemingly took its place in his brain like the piece of a puzzle. The key to the lock. They understood where you were getting at. They knew what it cost you to love a rival.
Your voice descended into a quiet, but steely whisper.
“After I learned all the things he’d done, how he used me for the information…I visited their nest. The Spades’ nest.”
And when you looked up again, you felt like the entire weight of a cliff rolled off your shoulders.
“And I burned it to the ground.”
“You shouldn’t have shared this much.”
These were Ten’s first words, barely a minute after the princes left Taeyong’s suite, with something like incredulous haze dwelling in their eyes. Your story was followed by a heavy silence, and you noted the quiet tears in Jaemin’s eyes. He was the most reluctant to leave, but Jaehyun pulled him along gently with a last look at you over his shoulder. You met his gaze. And let it linger.
You slid your eyes towards the spy, and it barely surprised you how much energy you had to muster for it.
“I placed the youngest prince in danger. I owed them this much.”
Ten clicked his tongue.
“You could’ve told them all this with half as much detail. Something about you and the Black Spade conman fucking, him betraying you and you taking revenge. It would’ve also taken less time.”
Winwin groaned.
“Why is it that when you open your mouth, only negative things manage to leave through it?”
“You’re one to talk.”
Kun interrupted, “We need them to trust us.” He shot you an approving look before frowning.
“You did not have motives other than that, right Z?” he looked at you more carefully.
“Of course, I didn’t, what are you talking about?” you murmured and stared at the ceiling in a rather determined manner. Jeno sat up straighter.
“Oh my god, is it because of one of the princes? You like one of them?” he grinned, his eyes contracting into half-moons.
“How did you come up with that? What does it have to do with it all? I don’t like anyone,” you hissed at no one in general. But that wasn’t enough for your family, who had entered a state of frenzy.
“It’s Johnny, isn’t it?” Winwin glanced down at you, his lips tightened so he doesn’t burst out laughing.
“No what the fuck, Win -”
“I mean I wouldn’t blame you,” Ten shrugged and you arched one of your freshly plucked eyebrows. You did not like the direction of the conversation.
“You have a daddy kink, don’t you Z? And Johnny is the daddy,” Yukhei was nodding deep in thought, as if he was a doctor writing a prescription for you. You gaped again.
“Excuse me – “
“No, I think Johnny is way too soft to be a daddy,” Doyoung shook his head and the others murmured in agreement. You were at a loss for words. Just minutes ago, you were discussing your tragic past love-story and now they were dissecting the chances of who you might fancy and their kinks-
“Nah,” Taeyong spoke up then, the one who did not render his eyes from your face ever since you finished talking about Junhui, “I don’t think it is Johnny.”
Whipping your head at your leader you shot him a betrayed look. He just stared at you with ever-knowing eyes.
“You don’t like anyone,” he tilted his head and placed his chin in his palm, “but you do find one of them fascinating, don’t you, dear?”
You squinted.
“You wouldn’t know – “
“Yes, I would,” Taeyong’s voice was hard and you clumped your mouth shut, “I have known you your entire life. Gives me enough time to figure you out.”
Shrugging, you hoisted yourself up from the sofa and stalked towards the door. You needed sleep. A day’s worth, at least. You didn’t want to listen useless talk.
“Z, wait,” Taeyong called after you regretfully. Tightening your grip on your heels, you turned around, glanced at your leader, at the rest of the Diamond Snake.
“Stay here for the night, please. Everyone will.”
He hesitated, as if saying these words caused him physical pain. He was disappointed, too. Shaken up by the night’s events like the rest of you. On the edge.
“I don’t think it is…safe yet. For us to walk around here alone. We also heard Seokjin’s words – about his office being near here. And he disappeared along with the Spades. No one knows where he might be, what he might be planning along with these little shits.”
You saw his point, and you hated to admit that you agreed with him. A part of you wanted to say that you’re fine off alone, that you can protect yourself… but tonight’s events upset you, too. The moment of realisation, while Seokjin held your hair wrapped around his finger, that you knew nothing, that you stalked straight into a trap in golden stilettos. And that you had no idea.
With a sigh, you dumped your heels back on the ground.
“Fine. But I want the bed.”
Tae let out a sigh of relief.
But not even the soft privilege of the bed was enough to lull you into sleep that night.
The next few days, most of your group retreated into a nerve-wrecking calm, even Yukhei was quieter and less lively than usual. It was nice to see that you were not alone in this pit of…lethargic feelings because of the ball. The next week was spent in solitude, the entire inner circle gathering up in Taeyong’s suite, eating and sleeping together. If anyone else saw you, they would have straight up called you miserable. The usual teasing, yelling and disastrous attitude towards the cleanliness of the place was nowhere to be seen.
“We haven’t been that lucky while being here, have we?” Doyoung piped up one evening, with Taeil and yourself sitting on the balcony, smoking in silence. You placed your legs in Taeil’s lap.
“What do you mean?” the eldest of the group asked as he smashed the remnants of his cigarette.
Doyoung shrugged.
“Well, look at the first mission. That wasn’t carried out so well either,” his voice sounded sarcastically cheerful, but you caught the tone of disappointment. Doyoung has always been the type to be adamant on succeeding on the events and actions and whatever objective you had in mind. You hardly failed. And it has never happened two times in a row, until now.
You wanted to say something soothing, but the words got caught in your mouth.
Taeil drew circles absently on the skin of your ankle.
“Well the first mission was good to earn the Royals’ trust, no?” he said then. The raven assassin inclined his head.
“Yeah, but Z got injured,” he countered, and you groaned, “so the two cancels itself out.”
Taeil chuckled.
“Based on what?”
“PEMDAS?”
You chucked the pack at Doyoung’s head. He threw it right back.
“We have to come up with something. We can’t keep going on like this,” you said after tugging out a new piece from the pack.
“What do you mean?”
“I feel like we have been feeling around in the dark so far. We weren’t sure who stood behind the attacks, we could only play a role as bodyguards. But now we know it is the Black Spade for sure. Just think, what would we do normally?” you straightened up while talking, folding your legs underneath yourself.
“We need to sniff around the Spades… find out the location of their headquarters, their current customers and deals,” Taeil caught up with your thinking and you nodded.
Doyoung’s eyes shone as he leaned forward.
“On the other hand, we need to get ready for any following attacks. We need to recruit more Snakes for this job, the inner circle can’t stay the only ones working on this case,” he thought out loud, “Ask for a new place from the Royals, and no one should know about it… not even the princes. Then we need to visit the Headquarters, see who can be used for the job. And then we need spies stuck onto the Spades… but I’m not so sure about that. Remember what happened last time?” he grimaced.
You shuddered as you recalled what happened the first and last time you set three of your spies onto the Black Spade. You could hardly identify them two days later, when you found them at an abandoned bus stop by an empty road.
Taeil let out a pained sigh.
“That means we will need to hire someone who does not belong to us and is further independent from other gangs… and who knows how things work in the Underworld, knows people, has connections… Doyoung, all the people who would be perfectly up for the job belong to us.”
“Not really,” you spoke up then, a triumphant grin stretching on your face, “there is someone who would be perfect for the job. Or more like someones.”
Doyoung’s mouth hanged open after a minute of silence.
“Z no. I don’t want to see those little shits ever again.”
You slammed your hands on the arms of the wooden chair and shooting up on your legs, you smashed the cigarette that was not done simmering.
“Z yes. I’m gonna talk to Tae. Call the rest of the Snakes together,” was all you said before you hurried inside the suite.
Luckily, all of the members were inside already. You agreed not to roam around at night, especially alone, so it became a fixed routine, that all the Snakes are back in the suite around early evening, doing their own things, scattered around the place.
As usual, Jisung and Winwin were on the floor in one of the living room’s corners, surrounded by cables and computers. Ten, Jeno and Yukhei were watching a video on one of their phones – something violent, judging by the crashing sounds blasting on full volume. Taeyong and Kun were bent over a pile of papers, thrown messily around on the coffee table. You sauntered over.
“I have an idea.”
Both of them flinched at the unexpected voice and the victorious cheer it held. Kun squinted.
“What have you cooked up now, Z?”
You jerked your head towards the couches and armchairs arranged into a half circle in the middle of the living room. That area became the core of the preparations, the talks, the planning.
Shortly after the Snakes got comfortable, you began sharing your idea. Summing Taeil’s, Doyoung’s and your own ideas, you drew up the problems that you stand against – and how you should solve them. The attitude you should adjust to. When you finished with the problem-solution speech, you went quiet, waiting to see if they followed you, to see if they understood.
After a beat of silence, Yukhei’s head shot up.
“You’re gonna suggest we talk to the Shenanigans?”
Taeyong’s eyes widened. Winwin let out a sound that might have been called a whimper. Jeno and Jisung grinned.
You nodded.
“I say we talk to the Shenanigans. Listen, if anyone knows the Underworld and its dealings better than us and other gangs, it’s them,” you ran your eyes over the members.
“They are so disrespectful,” Doyoung whined.
“What do you expect from a bunch of outcast kids?” Jeno shot back before looking at you and Jisung, who hasn’t said anything the entire time.
“I like Z’s idea. I’m in. And you know what guys? You old people won’t even need to see them. Jisung and I can go talk with them, we are the same age anyways.”
You let out an impressed hum and swung your legs over into Yukhei’s lap.
“The two of you is not enough. You need more people, so maybe you should take Yukhei as well. They seemed to like him last time,” Taeyong tilted his head, “maybe you could bring the young royals with you too.”
“Okay no need to go overboard now – “Kun spoke up, but you interrupted him.
“Wicked. I like it. And maybe one elder for added authority and to show it’s a serious case.”
“No more adults though. Yukhei and an older royal is borderline intolerable for the Devil’s spawns,” Doyoung drawled as he ran through a hand through his hair.
Everyone looked at Taeyong, waiting to see what he says. Jeno and Jisung exchanged a quick glance and Yukhei played with the nail polish on your toes. You could see your leader mulling over the exchanged ideas and propositions, saw him weigh each of them.
“We will need to execute these things as quickly and as quietly as we can,” he murmured then, drawing his cut eyebrow up. Kun and Taeil agreed with grunts of their own.
“Then we will need to divide ourselves and the royals up. One team goes to the Viper’s Pit to recruit more Snakes, the other team goes with the young princes to talk to the Shenanigans,” you jerked your head towards Jeno and Jisung.
Taeyong straightened up and said, “okay,” before heading towards the phone on the nightstand by the bed.
Before you knew it, you were on your way to Prince Johnny’s suite with Taeyong and Doyoung flagging either side of you. Following the eldest prince’s instructions, you ducked into a hidden pathway that connected all the wings of the palace and was kept a secret even from most of the servants. It is the safest mean of travel for all of us from now on, he said.
You chuckled to yourself as you listened to the loud echoes of your breaths with your leader and your fellow hitman. When exactly did you get to the point where you were allowed to visit the private suite of the Crown Prince? And exactly when did the royals stop worrying about the fact that with a single movement you could hurt them in unimaginable ways? You wanted to add ‘without feeling remorse’ but…that would have been a blatant lie. You wiped the thoughts out of your brain.
“Did you tell him to get the princes together?” Doyoung whispered over your head to Taeyong, who nodded in response.
The walls around you were painted hastily in old fashion, and because of the damp, it started to fall off in some places.
“Ceremonious,” Doyoung groaned as he inched sideways into a corner, so that he wouldn’t touch the blight, “is this really the means by which we’re gonna have to move around in the palace?”
“Since when are you such a diva?” Taeyong murmured and you snickered.
“He’s always been like this. How can you forget it?” you countered, then shuddered when a cold breeze kissed the back of your neck. Placing your hands in the pockets of Yukhei’s hoodie, you hurried your steps.
“It’s getting colder here. Let’s hurry.”
In about five minutes you arrived at the Crown Prince’s suite and as soon as Doyoung lifted his hand to knock, the door swung open. Johnny had a slightly dishevelled look, but you didn’t have time to observe him because he ushered you inside with hurried, frantic movements. With a frown, all three of you stepped inside the –
You had no words.
You had gone speechless.
You doubted you had the appropriate vocabulary to describe the eldest prince’s suite.
Staring, you took in the spotless interior. The walls were ivory white, and the entire place had a theme of black and white. The entrance led to a small foyer, where there was a spacious closet in which you could place your shoes and coats. He then led you into the living room and as you walked inside you could feel your feet sinking into the soft, white carpet that covered the entirety of the room. You wanted this material at your place too. You were going to have to Taeyong about it later on. The living space was huge. Enormous.
There was a spacious kitchen to your right, as you stepped inside, and to your left – half of the living room was sunken into the floor, with a circle of black velvet couches, providing an intimate and cosy atmosphere to the people sitting there.
It was so luxurious and clean, you felt reluctant to touch anything so you wouldn’t smear …. yourself on it. This was ridiculous.
There are people on the street, you thought, who are starving and begging for money every day and these people have half their living room sunken inside the floor?
You heard a low scoff beside you and concluded that Doyoung must have had similar thoughts.
“Do you think the toilet flushes itself here?” he murmured into your ear and you had to clamp your hand to your mouth, so you don’t snort out loud.
“Make yourselves at home,” Johnny said then and gestured towards the couches, “The others are here.”
Indeed, the princes were scattered around the circle, wearing casual clothes. Yet again, you were glad that you wore a hoodie and sneakers instead of a full body tunic and heels. It would have been a little overkill. Placing your hands back inside the pockets, you stalked towards the royals, Tae and Doyoung following.
Yuta, who had his back to you, turned around then, and glared your way.
“We do have things to do, you know. You can’t just order us around to your conveniences.”
Doyoung glared right back.
“If it concerns your survival, damn yes we can order you around Highness. Unless, you find pompous meetings with ass-lickers more important than your skin, you are obliged to do nothing of course.”
You clamped your mouth shut when you saw the expression on Yuta’s face. But he didn’t say anything else. That was perhaps the courtesy of Jaehyun, who placed his hand on his brother’s arm. You noted that his face was grimmer than usual and the skin under his eyes were a shade darker than usual. Not that you’ve observed him before.
The other princes were sitting seemingly relaxed, chatting casually, but you caught their eyes following your every movement. Oh well. Turns out you generalised the thought that they began trusting you. Putting a light swagger in your step you flashed them a grin.
The three of you sat on a segment that was left empty by the princes.
You caught Jaemin’s eyes and he gave you an eye-smile.
“So, what is the reason for this emergency call-together?” Johnny asked as he leaned forward.
“We came to share an idea and plan we just came up with. We thought it was an emergency because it is important that we take action as soon as we can,” Taeyong said with authority in his voice. He smoothed his flaming hair out of his forehead and ran his eyes over the royals, “we will need to involve Your Highnesses in the implementation of the next task.”
Jungwoo tilted his head, “which would be?”
Doyoung took over.
“Our team will have to be divided into two. We know that the previous missions resulted in more failure than success because how little men and information we had.”
“One of the teams will have the task of heading to the Diamond Snake headquarters, the Viper’s Pit, and the other team will have to take a small trip outside the city to talk with the Shenanigans,” you explained, placing your chin on the back of your hand. You fought the urge to cringe from having all the princes’ eyes fixated on you. Especially now, after you spilled so many things from your past. Ten was right. You shouldn’t have said so much. The last thing you needed from them was their pity.
“Who are the Shenanigans?” Mark piped up, pushing his circular glasses up on his nose.
Doyoung hissed, “A group of little fu – “
“The Shenanigans are a group of boys,” you interrupted him with a pointed look in his direction, “they are a fairly young group who were outcasts. I wouldn’t say they are a gang or mafia because they don’t do dealings or jobs for higher class people. But they know how the Underworld works, where you can find gangs, mafias, how you can get to them. They know how to get information without anyone noticing, they are exceptional at blending in and working their ways through crowds and events.”
“What is our role?” a low baritone voice spoke up then, sending chills down your spine. You glanced in Jaehyun’s direction but avoided eye contact. Taeyong took over.
“We would divide both our inner circle and You Highnesses. The younger ones – Princes Mark, Renjun, Jaemin, Donghyuck and Chenle would be accompanied by Prince Jaehyun and Yukhei, Jeno and Jisung from our team. It is known that the Shenanigans don’t take too much liking to older people. We are certain that they have taken a liking to Jeno and Jisung because they are the same age, and also Yukhei who is…Yukhei, and he is liked by anyone. We thought to add Prince Jaehyun as well to take extra caution. One adult wouldn’t hurt anyone. That is, if it is alright with Your Highness,” your leader finished with a long breath.
Jaehyun thought for a while and glanced at Johnny. There was a wordless conversation between them – something most siblings shared. You knew the feeling well.
“Alright,” he said then, “I will go with them.”
The young princes nodded vehemently. Their eyes shone brightly, and it made you believe that they were enthusiastic about having a chance to go on a mission and not staying in the shadow of their older brothers. You smiled at Jaemin who returned it with a wide grin of his own.
Taeyong inclined his head.
“Prince Jaehyun and our Jeno will then join the other team at the Viper’s Pit. We will be heading to the headquarters, as we mentioned earlier, to talk with the rest of the Diamond Snake members and recruit people who are trustworthy and fit for the job. The people going there will be Z, Kun, Ten, Princes Johnny, Jungwoo, Yuta and myself. We will need to stay there for a couple of days to make sure everything goes smoothly and without complications.”
“What about the rest of your gang?” Yuta drawled.
“I will need to stay here, as I am the Taeyong’s Second,” Doyoung answered, unfazed by Yuta’s icy tone, “Winwin will monitor everything from his computers and Taeil will assist me in sorting through materials for the next mission and other precautions we will need to take.”
“Precautions?” Johnny asked. Taeyong nodded.
“We were not careful enough previously. No mistake like that will happen ever again.” his voice held solid authority, even when he apologised. In his own way.
The princes were quiet for a while, each deep in his own thought and the three of you waited patiently. Somewhat. Doyoung kept playing with the embroidery on one of the pillows until you slapped his hand away. He was this close to tearing it.
Then to your surprise, Yuta spoke up.
“When are we leaving?”
The following morning’s cold breeze sent shivers down Jaehyun’s spine. He groaned as he pulled the covers further up on himself, so it was only his eyebrows and the top of his ruffled hair that was visible. Yuta had stayed in his suite for a long time the day before and honestly, now he wished he had kicked his brother out sooner than three in the morning. He gave himself three more minutes of snoozing, though he was everything but relaxed. Jaehyun knew that if he actually relaxes in that time period, he’s going back to sleep for the next couple of hours.
With another groan he fought the covers back and sat up. He was not a morning person, and on some days, he was thankful that he was a prince with duties, otherwise he would have wasted his entire life lying in bed all day. It was 7.35 by the time he flung his jacket over his black button-up and left to join his brothers and the three Snakes at the circular driveway of the castle.
He saw that his younger brothers had taken up on his advice the previous night - that wearing something casual but elegant might be the golden middle way, to stay true to themselves without offending the Shenanigans – who openly judged adults and lived life by their own rules. Unapologetically. He’s done all the research he could last night with Yuta, but this was all he could find online, in the darkest pits of the internet. He will have to interrogate Jeno more on who exactly they were going to see.
The youngsters set a great tone, his brothers were joking around with the Snakes, and as he headed over to them, occasionally he heard Chenle’s high-pitched giggles and Yukhei’s boisterous laughter. There were only three bulletproof-ed cars waiting for them, not a police car or motorbike could be seen anywhere near them. Interesting. The first one to notice him was Mark. The younger one tilted his head to the side, so his light brown locks fell over his brows.
“Brother,” he said as a way of greeting, “we were waiting for you. I thought we agreed to meet at 7.30?” his voice was not accusatory, only confused. Jaehyun sighed as he raked his fingers through his hair and glanced back at the castle.
“Yuta came over to mine at ten.”
Mark’s mouth shaped a silent ‘o’ and he nodded understandingly. He knew that if Yuta visited someone…it led to a discussion that went on for hours at least.
Jeno stalked over and Jaehyun had to fight down the urge to wince. The Snake’s steps were near silent, even on the pebbles of the driveway, and he moved with serpentine grace. It sent chills down Jaehyun’s spine.
“Are we ready to go?” he asked and cast an eye-smile at Jaehyun, “I just told your brothers that we will be divided into three, so we fit into the cars. Princes Jaemin and Donghyuck will be with Yukhei. Mark and Renjun will be going with our Jisung and Your Highnesses Jaehyun and Chenle are with me.”
Mark and Jaehyun nodded and a quiet voice in the back of Jaehyun’s mind told him that he should consider himself to be lucky – one Snake in one car, and two Royals with them. If it came to anything unfortunate…no. It is not the time to think about betrayals or conspiracies. The Snakes were there to protect them. Not to divert the cars and crash.
So, he followed Jeno to the car at the very front and with a reluctant gaze, he waited until all his brothers were inside. And then he got in.
“I’m really excited,” Chenle said as soon as he buckled himself in, “I have heard more about the Shenanigans after yesterday.”
Jaehyun flicked his eyebrows up and looked at Jeno who was sitting at the passenger seat. The motor whirred into life underneath them.
“You have?” he asked his youngest brother. Chenle grinned at him, his eyes narrowing into cheerful slits.
“Yeah! Jeno, do you want to tell Jaehyun more about the Shenanigans?” he grabbed the seat in front of him and leaned as far as his belt allowed him. Jeno shifted so he was sitting sideways and could look at them both.
“What has Your Highness heard so far?” his voice was casual but his ebony gaze penetrated Jaehyun. The prince shrugged.
“Not much. I have done a little research. The only thing I know from the internet is that the Shenanigans are rather young, and they don’t take kindly to adults.”
Jeno nodded.
“They are known as outcasts, kids who had nowhere to go because no one wanted to take them in, but that is a false myth. They have taken up the role of outcasts on their own will. The boys who join the Shenanigans were once abused by their families. Parents, mostly,” he’d glanced at Jaehyun who forced a mask of calm on his features, “many young people know about the Shenanigans, some consider them a legend, a myth, though. Too good to be true. The ones who were able to stand up to their parents and leave – or get away one way or another, searched for the group. But they were never successful. Instead it was the Shenanigans who found them.”
Chenle squirmed in his seat but Jaehyun tried to hide his astonishment. To be able to stand up to abusive parents…and leave. How brave does one have to be? How bad does the abuse have to be in order to make teenagers flee their home? Jaehyun shuddered.
“The Shenanigans are the modern Robin Hoods for the young generation that has lost hope and are scared to stand up for themselves. They embody freedom and independence. Defiance. Us, the gangs and mafias…we are tied down by our businesses, by deals and bets.”
Jaehyun placed his elbow on the windowsill as he listened to the young spy. He felt like he was beating around the bush.
“What is it that they do?” Jaehyun asked and Jeno’s eyes cut to him as he gave him an eerie grin.
“They do many things. Firstly, they defy the gangs. They refuse to swear loyalty to any of them other than themselves. Secondly, they steal. They steal from the higher ups. Lastly, they gather information about everyone and everything. Nothing misses their eyes and when I say all the gangs have been trouble figuring out how they do it, I don’t exaggerate. It is impossible to get a hold of them.”
There was pride in Jeno’s voice and maybe a little longing. Jaehyun wasn’t exactly sure. Chenle looked at him with bright eyes.
“Aren’t they terrific? Donghyuck and Jaemin and the others think so too.”
The eldest frowned.
“Why do they steal? And what do they do with the money?”
The spy shrugged and laughed quietly.
“I have absolutely no idea,” he mused, “it is their business. We haven’t tried figuring it out.”
The rest of the car ride was spent in silence, neither of them talking. Jaehyun caught Chenle smiling softly as he stared out through the windows and it didn’t take him a lot of work to figure out why. The last thing we need is a national scandal that the youngest prince has joined a bunch of thieves, he thought bitterly.
He had to admit, the Shenanigans did sound appealing to a certain extent. To be free of all duties, to swear loyalty for no one but your family and friends…to be independent from it all. Curiosity burned in the pit of his stomach. He wanted to know more. He wanted to see it all. See how mafias operated, the deals, the missions – even the assassinations, as morbid as it sounded.
His thoughts screeched to a halt and changed directions. Assassins… he thought of her, with teeth made of razors and eyes like simmering embers. Was she abused as well? Did she have to run away? Or was she born into it all? He thought of the times he watched her train – the way she moved. The sharpness and the precision – the same serpentine grace he saw and still sees in the other members of the Diamond Snake. But it was training – he longed to see it all in action. He longed to see her lunge and twist and stab and – why the fuck was he thinking about all this? Since when did he want to see someone end lives?
But a voice whispered to him; she is not all edge and defiance.
He thought of the look on her face when she saw the Black Spade conman with Chenle in the middle of the dancefloor that night…remembered his own rage and how he was glued to the floor, unable to move, to think. How he lost control and went with the flow. Got lost in it. And how she did not. He remembered the way her eyebrows spiked up in that pure, horrified expression. And the way it cleared out in the span of a single second, morphing into a look of murderous calm and arrogance. How she did not let go of his youngest brother’s hand until they were out of sight.
As he stared at splotches of green, orange and yellow passing by, he realised he knew nothing.
That there was more underneath it all. Hearing her story about the conman and the intertwined history of the two biggest rivalling gangs of the country showed them all, him and his brothers, that there was so much more to these criminals.
That there is a reason for why things happen. How people turn out to be.
And how wrong they were for judging them.
But then again, what if they chose this path…?
He groaned and pinched the bridge of his nose. Jeno looked back with a surprised look.
“Something wrong?”
Jaehyun shook his head and sighed.
“Just…there’s a lot on my mind,” a blatant understatement. The spy tilted his head as he continued to look at him with calmly. Calculating. Wondering. Jaehyun avoided his gaze. Tried not to cringe when Jeno smirked.
“We are almost there,” was all he said before turning back.
“Where are we meeting them?” Chenle piped up and leaned forward.
“Outside the capital. That is all you need to know,” he looked back at the eldest from the corner of his eyes, “you can trust us. There is no conspiracy. If that’s why your head is so heavy, Your Highness.”
Jaehyun didn’t know whether to feel insulted or amused.
The warehouse by which they stopped, was gigantic, and isolated. Both irked Prince Jaehyun. It was ran-down, rusty and almost fell apart and he saw nothing or no one that would have indicated that the Shenanigans were there, waiting for them.
As he stepped out of the car, a breeze of the early autumn air ruffled his hair. He took a deep breath. It has been a long while since he visited the outskirts of the capital – or the countryside, and he needed to take a moment to take in the solemnity and quietness of it all.
“Oi, Chenle, I got fucking chills!”
As soon as Donghyuck’s voice got to him, Jaehyun’s eyes snapped open. In the span of seconds, ten forms of irritation ran through his brain as he swirled in his brother’s direction. Then froze as he saw the way Donghyuck bounced in his youngest brother’s and Jeno’s direction – and threw his arms around both of them. Jaemin joined him from Jeno’s side. In the friendliest of manners. Without hesitation. Jaehyun could only gape as he looked around for someone who could be as outraged as him but…
Mark got out of the third car along with Renjun and both of them were listening intently to something Jisung was murmuring to them. Nothing on their faces other than concentration and fascination as clear as the pond nearby.
His eyes found Yukhei’s, and found the arsonist already looking at him. Yukhei gave him a challenging grin.
Look what happens when status and prejudice doesn’t get in the way.
Jaehyun felt his ears warm up and he cleared his throat.
Their steps were quick as they neared the doorless entrance of the warehouse, the younger ones leaving Jaehyun and Yukhei behind. The Snake had long, lazy steps, as if he was never in a hurry, had all the time in the world. Jaehyun, on the other hand, was tense as always when it came to a sudden meeting with a bunch of criminals. He had just started getting used to the Diamond Snake. He had to get his mind off this.
“It’s curious,” he turned to Yukhei, “how you and my brother Mark are almost the same age, yet he doesn’t count as an elder like you do.”
Yukhei shrugged and his eyes widened with a mischievous glint.
“I guess it counts a little different. Your brother is seen mostly around the young ones and they seem to give off a really harmonised vibe, if Your Highness gets what I mean. Meanwhile I am a part of the inner circle, the oldest and most trusted part of the Diamond Snake gang. I guess that puts a little more to my age.”
Yukhei glanced at the prince who watched him carefully.
“Y’know, there is more to age than just numbers. Our family prefers not to distinguish based on age. That barely gives you valuable assets. Look at our Jisung. He’s a teenager, like Jeno, they would still be in high school… but they’ve been through things, Prince. Terrible things. And that makes them cautious, makes them listen and work hard so they do not have to endure those things again.”
Jaehyun swallowed and had the same chill run down his spine when he heard the story of the Shenanigans. He dared not to ask what the two youngest members of the inner circle went through. He stayed silent and gave an understanding nod to Yukhei.
The arsonist gave him an encouraging grin and lifted his arm, as if he wanted to slap Jaehyun in the back but he decided otherwise and dropped it. A pang of disappointment hit the prince.
As they stepped through the eerie opening of the warehouse, many things came into Jaehyun’s mind. The first being that the warehouse was actually not empty and abandoned; it was filled with iron containers of many sizes, having gods know what inside them. The second was the stuffy smell, nearing on mouldy, and suddenly he did not want to know what was inside those containers.
The third was that other than the two people sitting by a table in the middle of the main paved way through the containers, there was no one else.
As Jaehyun looked closer, there were a bunch of chairs in front of the single table, Jeno and Jisung leading his brothers straight for them. He opened his mouth to object but Yukhei placed a hand on his shoulder.
They stopped a few feet away from the chairs, giving Jaehyun time and space to take in the two figures waiting for them.
The one who was sitting on a wooden chair was clad in a leather jacket, jeans and black combat boots. His hair was a tousled, curly mess of dark blond and his mouth was quirked in a pleasant, almost welcoming smile. His head was tilted, watching them carefully.
Jaehyun fought his eyebrow so it doesn’t shoot up in the skies.
The other person, the one who perched on the edge of the table, gave off a more mysterious and serious aura – this one reminded Jaehyun of the Snakes. The man – boy? – was not smiling like his partner, he had his eyes set dead on the princes entering. His arms were crossed tightly, but his legs were hanging loosely on the edge of the weathered table. He was clad in black, similarly to the other person, even his hair, which was so dark it was almost blue. His fingers were adorned with rings, all silver, all capable of leaving a nasty mark if he was to punch someone. He was not smiling. There was nothing on his face other than…boredom? He seemed bored out of his mind, even as his eyes zig zagged between the younger princes.
Only two? I thought there were more people in the Shenanigans’ group. Did they just send representatives?
Yukhei must have noticed Jaehyun’s confused glare because after nudging him, he nodded his head around them, towards the top of the containers. Following his nod, Jaehyun looked and his heart almost stopped.
From the shadows and darkness, without a sound, figures emerged.
They were everywhere, scattered around the warehouse, on tops of the containers, between them, hiding out in the shadows. They stood still. They only watched. But it gave Jaehyun the impression that if he was to do anything reckless, they would not hesitate to lunge down, up onto him. He placed his hands deep into his pockets so he wouldn’t loosen his shirt that suddenly felt a bit too tight.
Then the blond one spoke up, with a voice surprisingly soft and pleasant.
“Jeno,” he said, “it has been a while. You got us all worried with your absence.”
The spy smiled and his eyes scrunched up into their usual moon slits. He lifted his hand slightly to stop the younger princes a step away from the chair laid out. Yukhei and Jaehyun did not go nearer, and there was a container’s length left between them and the others.
“You out of everyone should know, that it is way too difficult to get a hold of you, Chan.”
Chan laughed, his plump lips widening.
“I would have thought that the infamous Diamond Snake spies would at least try. We might have let you, right Minho?” he glanced up at his partner. The boy, Minho, only gave Chan a quick glance before continuing to observe them, but his arms loosened a bit.
“How rude of me,” Chan continued as he finally stood up, and waved at the chairs, “please, guests, sit down.”
Then, for the first time, Jaehyun thought, he looked over at the eldest prince and Yukhei. After giving a quick nod and a flash of a smile to Yukhei, Chan’s eyes settled on Jaehyun.
“I’m afraid we have no more chairs. I hope that is not taken as personal insult to the throne,” his eyes did not leave Jaehyun’s and his voice suddenly took on a mocking, challenging tone. Jaehyun did not break his look away from his.
“By all means,” he said coolly, “pretend I am not here. I have no role in this meeting other than being an elder brother.”
Chan held his gaze for a second and then his smile went back to warm.
“Perfect. Now, let me introduce myself and my boys,” he sat back down and casually waved his hand around, “My name is Chan and I am the leader of the Shenanigans. I welcome you princes, Snakes.”
His eyes ran through the boys perching on the chairs. Jaehyun could swear Chenle and Donghyuck shook slightly from excitement.
“This here is Minho, my Second and my advisor,” he continued, “and soon, if the situation demands, I’ll call the others forward. But that’s it for now.”
Jeno grinned and Jisung smirked at Chan, who leaned forward, placing his elbows on his knees.
“Now tell me,” he breathed, “the reason why you called us together.”
You were hanging laundry up to dry on clothespins when you saw Jaehyun and his advisors and planners with him in the garden, picking out what flowers to use for the decorations. When they caught your eye, you curtsied and allowed them to continue. However, you felt Jaehyun's eyes lingering upon you, gazing at your features and beauty. Jaehyun was so distracted that he almost fell into the fountain.
"Prince Jaehyun, please look where you are going," said his royal advisor, Taeyong.
"R-right, thank you."
You smiled as you walked back into the castle to finish cleaning before helping the needs of Jaehyun. You cleaned and organized his room, closet, and office and eventually met up with Jaehyun around noon. You went to serve them lunch, and they were discussing the guest list.
"The Lees, Suhs, Moons, Kims, Wongs, and Parks have RSVPed so far."
"Fantastic. Hopefully, everyone else will as well."
"Prince, I am required by law to invite princess-"
"Yes, I know, and I am fully aware that she and her family have RSVPed."
"Now that everything is in order, you still have a tasting of the food and outfit fittings left for the Prince Jaehyun."
"Thank you for your kindest services, now let's eat."
When you walked away, you wanted to know who the lucky princess is. You hoped some of the other maids in the kitchen had heard anything. From what you heard, they said that she was a flirt and slept with wealthy men to reach the top, which is how she became a prospect for Jaehyun. You felt sick by this and hoped that Jaehyun wouldn't fall for her, but he might have to marry her.
Jaehyun finished his lunch but still had to taste the food for the midnight ball. You walked out to see him sitting by himself, awaiting food with a list and quill in his hand. He notices you walking in and smiled at your presence. You walked over to him, and he immediately gave you a quick peck on the lips.
"Is this the first course I'm tasting?"
You laughed while blushing.
"Because this tastes REALLY sweet."
He pulled you in for another kiss that was longer than the first one, but you pulled away in fear that someone would see.
"I'll go get your actual course."
"Come back quick before I perish from loneliness."
"Don't be so dramatic."
You brought out some hors d 'oeuvres such as deviled eggs, stuffed mushrooms, and pate. Jaehyun ate and checked off or crossed out the foods he wanted for the ball. But he had been talking about 10-15 minutes with each hors d'oeuvre, and you still had more food for him to taste.
"y/n, tell me what you think of this"
"b-but Jaehyun, it's caviar, you should be tasting these things."
"Yeah, but I need another outside opinion, you know?"
"I don't know…"
"Do it for me?"
"Fine…"
Jaehyun put some caviar on a cracker and fed it to you. You swear it was the best thing you have ever tasted in your life, and you wanted more of it.
"Jaehyun…This is really good, and it's creamy and salty. I like it."
"Do you know what's also creamy and salty?"
"Oh, shut up."
"Here, try the smoked salmon with cream cheese."
Jaehyun fed it to you again, and you smiled back as you tasted the smokey fish and cream cheese touch your tastebuds. It was a perfect combination of food.
"Hey you got a little cream cheese on your face, let me get it for you."
Jaehyun licked his thumb and rubbed it against the spot on your cheek where the cream cheese was, and you felt your face turning red.
"I-is it gone?"
"Nope. I missed a spot."
"Whe-"
Jaehyun pecked your lips, which made you throw your head into his lap out of embarrassment. Jaehyun caressed your hair and attempted to calm you down while smiling at your shy figure.
"Ahem."
You and Jaehyun turned to see his mother staring at you and Jaehyun intently to intimidate you.
"I understand that both of you are close friends, but you must not act this way at the ball, we have guests and a reputation to uphold. Jaehyun, your father would not be too pleased to see you like this infant of your potential wives. If you both continue to fool around, then you won't be matching this year, understand?"
"Yes, mother, I understand, I'll continue tasting now."
"y/n?"
"Yes?"
"Can you please go to the fitting room, to kill two birds with one stone so that Jaehyun can focus and that you can get fitted for your dress."
"Of course, enjoy the rest of your afternoon."
You bowed to both of them and walked up to the seamstress' room where they took your measurements and fitted you for the dress. They also took notes on what hair and makeup you'll be doing to accommodate the dress as well. You noticed a suit that looked similar to the fabric the seamstress was working on.
"Is that Jaehyun's suit?"
"Yes ma'am, would you like to peak?"
"If I may?"
"Of course."
She pulled to mannequin out from behind the divider, and you saw a beautiful royal blue suit with black detailing, symbolizing the colors of the kingdom, meaning confidence, wisdom, intelligence, and strength. You felt the soft fabric and saw on Jaehyun's suit a sash with all of his badges from the military and inherited ones from his ancestors. Each badge was perfectly polished and shined brightly in the light. You admired Jaehyun, and he had accomplished so much for an (almost) 18-year old. However, one badge caught your eye; it was an amber gemstone in the center of what appeared to be a flower or a daisy. That badge was a badge you gave to Jaehyun for helping him pick flowers with you, it was a cute badge at the time, but now you look back and realize it was a badge Jaehyun never took off. The seamstress noticed you were staring at the badge for a long time and decided to give some input.
"Ever since Jaehyun was young, he refused to take off that badge. It was very special to him. I also heard that he never took it off in battle too, whenever it was becoming rusty or old he constantly wanted it polished and fixed right away, it was very sweet. When I asked him about it, he said someone very special gave it to him, and it motivates him that he can do anything as long as he has his heart set on it."
You smiled and have never felt warm and fuzzy about something in your life. But it only made it bittersweet when you realized that Jaehyun was going to be courting people wearing your badge. You said your goodbyes and thanks to the seamstress and continued your daily routine. Preparing bread and food for dinner, cleaning and dusting several parts of the castle, and having to assist Jaehyun when he needed it. You were helping Jaehyun with selecting flowers, and he asked for your opinion.
"y/n, roses or lilies?"
"roses, they look more elegant and fitting for the ball."
"hm, good choice."
Later that night, it was dinner time, and you were helping serve dinner as usual, due to this, you were always exposed to the daily conversations at the dinner table.
"Did you see if your suit fits?"
"It does mother."
"How about the food is everything suitable, presented perfectly, and tastes lavish?"
"Of course."
"Have you looked at the list of princesses attending tomorrow evening?"
"…no.."
"Jung Jaehyun! I told you look at that weeks ago! You must have done some research in the library!"
"My darling, leave him alone, I didn't even research you because there was no need once I spoke with you."
"Can you stop being so irrational right now! I just want what's best for our son!"
"He will choose what is best, I've taught him to have a good heart."
"Have you heard of the rumors of some of these princesses? If my son marries, please excuse my language, but a whore, I won't be able to breathe."
"Mother, will you please relax, there's nothing to worry about."
While Jaehyun's mother looked in distress, she saw you fill her glass with more water, and she turned to you and began to speak.
"Ah, y/n, since you are attending, can you please make sure that Jaehyun stays clear of the troublesome princesses? I trust you because you know as women, we know how vicious we can be."
"Of course, my queen, I will try my best."
Great, picking Jaehyun's future wife while you are secretly dating, doesn't sound like a bad idea at all. You turned to Jaehyun, giving him a small smile before returning to bring out dessert, raspberry tarts.
After dinner, you helped clean up when you saw Jaehyun waiting so you could help him with his nighttime routine of bathing, getting dressed, and going to bed. You walked up to his room to see him sitting against his window, still looking out into the starts.
"I'm not ready, y/n."
"I don't think anyone is ever ready."
"It's a big moment in my life. I don't think I'll be able to do it, especially when you are going to be there."
"Don't worry about me. I'll be okay."
"But it's not okay!"
"…"
"I- I love you, y/n! to have you watch me go off with another girl is just wrong! I-I don't want to hurt you!"
"Jae, it's fine, we both knew this day would come eventually….trust me, I'll be okay."
"Are you sure, my daisy?"
"Of course, I will always love you, no matter how many times you could break my heart."
"I promise I will find some way for us to be together, and I promise I will have a dance with you at the ball."
Jaehyun kissed your hand as you bitterly smiled, and you went to go prepare his bath filled with rose petals and lavender. The aromatics in his bathroom were warm and florescent. Jaehyun noticed how monotone your face was while filling his bath, so he came behind you, only in a robe hugging you from behind.
"Join me."
"W-wh-"
"Please, it might the last time we have this chance together."
"B-but Jae I'm just a maid I'm not supposed to- let alone see you naked."
Jaehyun looked at you with puppy-like eyes begging you to take a bath with him, and you couldn't resist.
"Fine, but you are getting in first."
Jaehyun smiled as you turned around because you were too shy to see Jaehyun naked, your mind would go lewd places. Jaehyun laughed as you heard him, slowly dip into the bath. You started to strip your clothes and tie up your hair with a black ribbon so your hair would not get wet. You hesitated to turn around once you removed all of your clothes, but Jaehyun encouraged you to turn around. You turned around slowly looking at the floor, but you could sense the smile forming on Jaehyun's face. He reached out a hand for you to join him, but you were still looking at the floor when you walked to the edge of the bathtub. You looked at Jaehyun's loving gaze as you slowly dipped into the bath, now only looking at the candles around you trying to avoid looking at Jaehyun and his body. Your back met Jaehyun's chest, and you felt Jaehyun pull his head down into your neck. His hands started to rub your arms and legs lightly, massaging them. You felt your cheeks blush, and your whole body feeling hot.
"J-Jae-"
"Shh, let me love you, my daisy."
Jaehyun started to kiss your neck softly, and his hands moved all over your body, making you become breathless under his touch. You turned your head to meet his eyes, kissing him delicately while the bright candles and warm water hug both of you. It was as if time stopped, and you turned your whole body to straddle Jaehyun deepening every kiss. Jaehyun wrapped his arms around you hugging your waist tight, wanting you to be closer to his body.
"God, you are so beautiful," Jaehyun moaned.
You felt his member get harder against your thigh begging to enter inside you, and you felt hungrier for Jaehyun. You looked at Jaehyun's eyes filled with lust, pleading for you. Jaehyun whispered in your ear.
"I'm going to put it in, okay? Relax, you'll be okay love,"
With that, he entered inside you, kissing you every second of the way and whispering words of encouragement to keep you relaxed. You felt the pain and pleasure scratching Jaehyun's shoulders, moaning loudly like music to his ears. Tears streamed from your eyes from the pain, and Jaehyun lifted your head from his neck and wiped them away, kissing your neck.
"Is it okay for me to move?"
"M-maybe one more- ah- second- mmh-"
"Of course, take all the time you need."
You took about 2 minutes before you told him that it was okay for him to move, and he began moving at a slow pace, for you and him. Jaehyun eventually picked up the pace while kissing you and caressing your entire body, splashing water, petals, and moans scattering all over the bathroom. It eventually led to Jaehyun, making you both reach your climaxes at the same time. You both panted, taking deep breaths to relax your breathing. You straddled off of Jaehyun, sitting in between his legs, and you laid against his chest, fiddling with his fingers.
"Are you alright, my little Daisy?"
"Yes, Jae, I love you so much."
"I love you too, y/n."
Jaehyun got up from the bath and carried you out, knowing that your body would be a little sore, and you would not be able to walk. He wrapped you in a towel and laid you down on his bed, letting you dry off and relax.
"Wait, Jae, I'll clean- the bathroom- ah-"
"No, no, no, you've cleaned up after me several times, let me."
"But-"
"Please rest, for once, let me take care of you now."
So, you laid on the plush bed as Jaehyun started to clean up the bath, throwing the petals out the window and draining the tub and cleaning the floor with a cloth. Once he finished, he kissed your forehead to wake you up from your small nap. You smiled, looking at Jaehyun, who smiled back and left to get your nightwear from your room. He removed the towel and helped you get dressed. He also prepared clean clothes for you the next day when you woke up. You could barely walk, so you stayed with Jaehyun for the night. Jaehyun changed out of his robe and into his pajamas, cuddling up next to you, kissing your neck.
"Goodnight, my daisy."
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Description:The NEO bloodline is said to be decendant from the gods, that is why they rule as royals in a place known as The NEO kingdom.
The bloodline has always tried to stay pure to it's blood heritage but with the next generation growing up and no NEO bloodline females being born, the king and queen turn to drastic measures which eventually landed them with not one, but four NEO female heirs, all who were gifted with abilities of the elements.
Wind, Fire, Earth, Water
But when you tip a scale one way, it always has to dip in the other direction before levelling out again.
this must happen
but at what cost?
《Let the games begin》
"I'll do it"
"Pardon?" The queen spoke
"I agree to it" Haru spoke as she kept her arms folded behind her back as she stood in front of both her parents.
Currently in the room was all nine of the Lee children, both their parents plus a couple of guards and maids.
The queen stood across from her daughter, with her hands clasped in front of her, she held her head up high, the light in the room hitting her cheek bones perfectly.
The queen was a beautiful women, who had a petite, equally sized figure, the corset she wore thinned her waist, setting the standards high for a queen to be.
Haru was nothing like her mother, she knew that, she did love her mother, the women who raised her was kind and gentle but her mother, the queen was not one to be messed with.
She was smart enough to take out and entire kingdom right under their noses with out anyone realising until it was too late, that is why she was picked to be the queen, picked to be the kings wife, she had NEO blood in her and she was by all means perfect.
Surprise was evident on the queens face, she never expected Haru to comply with the idea.
The queen relaxed her features again, holding her chin up as she rolled her shoulders back effectively putting out her chest, the way she stood drew attention and demanded the utmost respect .
"Well then I shall send some maid to your room shortly to help you prepare, I presume our guest will be arriving soon"
Everyone in the room watched, waiting for what Haru would do next. The girl knew she was being watched, of course she was going to put on an act.
"of course mother" She spoke in a soft tone, smiling as she bowed slightly before turning and walking away.
All eight of Haru's siblings looked to each other, confusion riddled their expressions. Haru the only Lee child who ever put up a fight had just willingly agreed to marry another, of whom she had never officially met yet.
Mirae looked for her brother Donghyuck, the two were Haru's best friend, they were all super close because of their age. Donghyuck caught his sister gaze and almost immediately knew what she was thinking, Mirae communicated through her eyes, gesturing in diffrent direction, using her eyebrows for emphasis.
After communicating her thoughts to him, Mirae stepped away and began to follow after Haru, Donghyuck following shortly after.
The others watched them as they met at the archway of the throne room, they didn't stop as they continued on after Haru.
Haru was met with a cool breeze as she walked outside of the walls connected to the palace.
She took in the colourful sights and vibrant smells of the garden as she made her way along the paths.
She greeted some of the maids and gardeners with polite smiles as she passed, she may dispise her life and go against it all day long, but she was a good person,
She was polite to others and thought of everyone as equals, she hated the suffering of other especially those less fortunate then herself.
Her pace slowed down as she came to the end of the path, slipping her shoes off she stepped onto the cool grass, a shiver ran up her spine at the sudden coldness.
She stood still, wriggling and embedding her toes into the small blades of grass. She continued onwards heading further away from the paths.
Her gaze feel upon the calming waters of a loch which was in the centre of the royal gardens, while walking towards it she came across an old sakura tree.
The tree had bright pink flowers blossoming from little buds, the sun's rays peaked and streamed through the cracks in the branches .
Haru stood under the tree looking out over the loch, digging her feet into the dirt, closing her eyes she took deep breaths, in through her nose then out again through a big sigh.
keeping her eyes shut she relished in the feeling of it all, the light breeze tickling her skin, the heat of the sun's rays, the noise of the water rippling, the feeling of the cool grass and dirt beneath her feet.
The shock of cold water touching her cheek made her open her eyes, she saw a firm stream of water flowing up from the loch, it hung in the air rapping and curling in on itself.
Haru spun around and spotted two figures stood side by side on the grass, Mirae stood with her hands held out in front of her.
Donghyuck stood on her left, his eyes flicked between Mirae's out stretched hands and the water flowing in the air.
"did you two follow me here?" Haru asked as she lowered herself down to sit on the grass in the shadow of the sakura tree.
"well I wouldn't call it following" Donghyuck said finally looking away from Mirae's hands as she lowered them back down to her sides.
"so stalking then?" Haru looked back up to them as she spoke.
"No! I was coming out for a walk, Donghyuck just wanted to come" Mirae defended herself as she came closer to where Haru sat.
"mhmm" Haru hummed as she turned back in the direction of the loch.
"did Mark send you?" Haru questioned watching a small group of ducks as they bobbed on top of the water.
"what? no we just wanted to-"
"question me on my decision?" Haru spoke cutting Donghyuck off.
"yes we did" Donghyuck spoke catching the attention of Haru's gaze.
She hadn't been expecting them to admit it that quickly.
"well?" Donghyuck pushed
Calmly Haru turned back to face the water once more.
"what do you want me to say?, that I didn't make the decision myself?" Haru inquired as she leaned her head back, as so it was resting upon the trunk of the tree.
"so you are going along with it?" Mirae asked
"did I agree to it? Yes , though I don't recall saying I was going to do it with out putting up a fight" Haru said without turning or acknowledging her two siblings stood behind her.
Donghyuck looked down, smirking, he coughed to try and hide his ammusment as Mirae stood with her mouth hanging open.
" now if you will excuse me I have to be ready for the arriving guests" Haru spoke as she got up, stopping in front of the two.
She brought a hand up and with one finger she gently placed her fibger under Mirae' chin, she carfully shut Mirae's mouth.
"let the games begin" she spoke with a smirk, before walking off, going back to the pathway which would lead her back up towards the palace.
《~~◇~~》
"why so tight, Jina?" Haru gasped, lowering her head down, Her hands were supporting her by holding onto the wooden post of the bed.
Jina, her maid, was stood behind her tightening the strings to the corset which hugged her figure.
"I'm sorry princess, but her majesty, suggested it may be more proper to tighten the corset up for tonight's events" Jina spoke as her fingers got back to work on the strings at the back of the corset.
Haru closes her eyes as the tightening of the strings brought her ribs closer together. Jina stepped away, giving Haru time to adjust her breathing.
Haru looked up to the ceiling as she panted out deep breaths. Loosening her grip on the wooden post she ran a hand down the from of the corset.
She stepped away from the bed, taking stiff steps towards the window in her room.
She rested her hands on the window sill, looking out she spotted the multiple guests arriving, all dressed to impress, with their fancy dress clothing.
Haru watched as Ara, Taeyong and Ten came out from the entrance of the castle, they stood upon the stone steps, smiling and welcoming the arriving guests.
The thick wooden door on the other side of the room opened as an elegant figure strolled in, standing by the door with a poised posture.
Haru continued to look out the window as her mother came in.
The queen dismissed Jina, the closing of the door made Haru finally acknowledge her mother, her body still faced the window she watched her mother over her shoulder.
"You should have the corset tighter" her mother spoke coming away from the door.
Haru turned her head back, looking outside, Mark now stood with Ara, Taeyong and Ten, he was also suites in his best clothing. He stood with his hands behind his back, his smile captivated her attention.
These guest were some of his friends, and they hadn't seen each other in a while, most of the regions stuck to themselves through the winter, only really contacting each other in times of emergency, Haru knew Mark, Jeno and Donghyuck had been sending letters to the other princes to keep in contact, but it was not the same.
"Haru, come over here" The queen spoke, cutting through the silence.
Slowly Haru turned to face her mother, who stood beside the bed, where Jina had been fastening up the corset beforehand.
Walking over the queen held out her hands, she circled her index finger indicating for Haru to turn around.
Haru gritted her teeth at the thought of not putting up a fight, though she began following her mother's instruction she turned around, placing both her hands back on the bed post. Her posture drew rigid again as she felt her mother's fingers grasp and tug at the strings at the back of the corset.
Haru's body involuntarily shifted forwards and backwards as her mother tugged and tightened the corset. She hissed as her mother finally finished pulling the strings as tight as they would go.
She was momentarily breathless, she closed her eyes once again as black specks danced and dotted around her vision. Her grip on the bed post was the only thing holding her to reality, she swayed on her feet.
slowly, as she took calm calculated breaths, her sight began to come back.
She shook her head as she came back to her senses. She spotted a dress now sat upon her bed. The dress was a viridan green. It had lace crisscrossing along the chest with gold material embroidered around the waist, it held gems and crystals, which sparkled in the light bursting in from the windows.
She took her right hand off the bed post and leaned forward, her fingertips brushed against the material of the dress. The dress was made of the finest linen.
She plucked the dress up off the bed. She held It up in front of herself.
With the thin material gripped between her fingertips, she ran her hand lightly over the gold patterns on the front of the dress.
Haru spotted the queen had stilled her movement from the corner of her eye
"it was my dress when I was younger, I thought it would suit you best" she spoke, Haru's eyes looked to her before flicking back to the dress, which she still held out at arms length in front of her.
The queen gestured for Haru to pass the dress to her. Haru obliged passing the dress gently off to her mother, carefully the queen helped Haru slip the dress on, it fitted Haru perfectly.
The queen took a couple steps back to admire the dress which hugged Haru's figure in all the right places, defining and emphasising all her curves.
The queen brought a hand up to her mouth as she looked to the second youngest heir to the throne.
The queen looked at the princess for a few more seconds before she moved towards one of the dresser in the room, she opened a small wooden box which was placed on top of the mahogany wood drawers.
Haru tried to peer over the queens shoulder to see what vacated the box,, but her efforts were futile
The queen pulled her hands back up, grasped between her fingertips was a necklace. It had a golden chain and held a green emerald at the end of it.
The queen looked at the peice of jewerly in her hands, her head turned back up in Haru's direction, she walked towards the girl with the necklace held out infront of her.
Haru brought her hands up to grab her hair, she bunched it up and held it off her neck as the queen clasped the necklace around the back of her neck, the queen trailed her hand down the necklace, her finger rolled down the chain until it reached the bottom of the necklace, which lay on Haru's chest.
The queen took shuffled steps back to admire her daughter once more.
"You will be a beautiful bride and queen" she spoke reaching up her sleeve, she pulled out a handkerchief, she brought it up to tap under her eye before bringing it in front of her mouth. as she began to tear up.
"mother" Haru spoke reaching out to her mother. The queen simply edged away, she straightened back up as she brought her arms down to her sides once more.
"prepare yourself, I will be sending someone up to escort you" the queen says as she turned to go towards the door, she gripped the door handle, pulling the door open she walked out, leaving the room once again in silence.
Haru stood still as she turned her head back towards the window, she watched as the clouds in the sky flowed in the same direction of the wind. As Haru unfocused her eyes her gaze caught her own reflection, she looked to the sight of her figure in the full length mirror.
Stepping forward she looked her reflection up and down a couple of times, the dress did fit perfectly, Jina had also worked with Haru's hair, her hair was in a half up half down style with braids cascading through her hair.
Her eyes caught onto the necklace which rested upon her chest, her hands came up as her fingers rap around the necklace, the metal of it was cold to the touch, she gripped her fingers around it, she took in the detail embedded into the metal.
She lay the necklace back on her chest as her eyes drifted down to her waist. There was a visible difference. She naturally had a thin waist, but without the corset Haru doubted the dress would ever fit the same way ever again.
She trailed her hands down the front of the dress, her fingers dipped in between the strings crisscrossing the chest area of the dress, running her hands down further, her fingertips took in the feeling of the many material that had been stuck together to make the dress, the feeling was rough but smooth.
Haru eyes slowly travelled back up, she looked herself straight in the eyes for a few seconds she saw them flicker a deep luminescent green. Haru squeezed her eye shut, lightly shaking her head
Upon re-opening them her eyes were back to normal, she sighed, closing her eyes once more, she tried to bring herself peace.
"Its for the good if the kingdom" Haru said to herself in a whispered tone.
She tilted her head up. She could do this, no she would do this. She was strong enough to go through with this
At least that's what she continued to tell herself
A knock at the door made Haru turn around a figure slowly pulled them through the space between the door and it's frame.
"I've come to escort you downstairs" Jeno spoke to his sister who still stood across the room, next to the window.
Haru sighed as she walked closer, Jeno held out his arm, she slipped her arm into his.
"let me guess mother dressed you?" Jeno spoke. The silence that followed his question gave him all the answers he needed.
He turned his head to look at Haru. Jeno scanned her eyes for any sights of resentment or angry.
But all he saw was determination and fear.
She was scared.
Jeno do not expect Haru of all people to fear her decision , yes she has made bad decisions but she never feared and regretted any of them until after she did them.
"Haru you don't hav-"
"don't Jeno" Haru said closing her eyes as she turned her head. "I know what I'm doing, don't disagree with me on this" she added slowly opening her eyes once more.
Clearing his throat Jeno began to lead Haru out of her room, down towards the guest which stood waiting for the princesse's arrival.
10:44pm: rebel spy!you say nothing as crown prince!jeno’s eyes straighten out and widen as he registers the knife you hold against his throat, your beaming smile long gone, replaced with a stone cold look of piercing intent. royal guard!jaemin watches in horror, unable to act without risking jeno’s life that now hangs so precariously in your hands, as jeno scans the memories you made together from months and months prior for hints of your betrayal. were all the laughs, the sunsets, the teasing and tears mere lies? were those all part of an act? did he mean nothing more than a target to you?
WARNINGS/AUTHOR’S NOTE ― Mention of Blood and Stab Wound.
SUMMARY ― Aera finds herself in a surrounding where she isn’t too familiar.
Aera falls in a thud as soon as the portal opens – with her basically rolling out with a loud groan coming out from her.
“Argh..” Aera let out a groan with a mixture of a sigh. She thanked the gods that she was literally being transported to a bush rather than a concrete floor – since she is feeling a sharp pain somewhere below her body.
Slowly opening her eyes, the bright skies greeted her which explained why her sight was quite bright even if her eyes were closed.
As she tried to sit up, she was met by a sharp pain on her hip. Aera looked down and let out a sharp gasp – to see a knife basically stuck onto her own flesh.
“That explains the pain.” She muttered to herself, gulping her own lump on her throat. She wasn’t afraid of the pain, she was afraid of the redness she is seeing now – which is her own blood basically trickling down the stabbed wound.
“Freaking—
She cursed herself after taking the small knife out of her – now feeling the tremendous pain, throwing it aside as she tried to get her breathing to a normal speed.
‘It hurts to move,’
Aera tore out a part of her inner shirt – to make a bandage for the meantime for her wound. After finishing the small problem, Aera now fully looked around. She couldn’t tell if she was in Aerina.
She didn’t even know if she was in Wonderland or not.
But all she knows is that she is somehow in a garden, a back garden – seeing a small statue surrounded by bushes leading to a path. Aera slowly stood up though it hurt.
Sighing, Aera took a step at a time while clutching onto her wounded part as she ventures out.
‘It looks like nobody's around..?’ Aera looked around again, trying to see if there is anyone around but after seeing every corner, there is literally no one.
Shrugging slightly, she followed the path and that’s when she was met by a short garden maze.
But her eyes followed to the front as her gaze met up. Though it was foggy, she could tell that she had stepped foot in a castle. Aera looked behind, and her eyes went slightly wide to see more fog appearing to where she was previously.
Aera quickly went ahead without looking back, and now her sight turned hazy the more she stepped forward – causing her to let out small coughs.
“Why does it turn foggy all of a sudden?” Aera commented, as she was swatting around the air. Now she thinks the surroundings were playing with her – it turns foggy purposely.
The more she walked ahead, the more her sight turned hazy.
Just as she took a step forward, she felt a tip of sharp blade right behind her back – which caused her to stand frozen. All of a sudden, the haze that was surrounding her started to disappear slowly.
Now revealing where she is standing.
In front of her, she could see the inside castle through the huge clear window.
Now she didn’t dare to look behind – not knowing what or whom is literally pointed at her. But she knows there is someone.
“Didn’t know someone had the guts to enter here, usually they would be killed instantly if trespassers come by.” Whoever this person is, he is sure is taunting Aera just by how his voice sounded.
Aera slowly held up both of her hands - though she felt a sharp pain on her wounded hip which caused both of her hands to gripped onto the wound, that’s when she felt the sharp blade again at her back.
“Okay, okay! Relax! I’m hurt!” Aera groaned annoyingly, at the same time turning back slowly while gripping onto her hip.
As soon as she turned around, she met with the man who was somehow taunting her.
It wasn’t just one. There were two.
One of them gasps with his eyes widening the more he stares at Aera, “Oh my god, Binnie…”
Aera looks at the both of them – judging how they were dressed. She could see an emblem on their collars, now she knows she is literally in a kingdom. But she couldn’t tell which kingdom it was.
She couldn’t even remember the previous kingdoms in Wonderland.
‘I’m so dead.’
She could only gulp in fear while one of her hands was gripping onto her wound.
As she was staring into these two men hardened, she could feel her stance becoming nauseous. Aera could guess it’s either because of her getting weaker or because of the wound.
“I..” Just as she was trying to let out a word, she could feel her body collapse.
And before her vision turns into darkness, she could see one of the figures catching her – feeling herself in someone’s arms before she fully passed out.
“Thank you for the breakfast, I’ll get going now.” Jia thanked the royal housemaids as soon as she finished her breakfast, as always, before excusing herself as she grabbed her book. This was her usual routine.
Breakfast, have a walk around the castle, read the book by the back-garden, lunch, horse-riding, reading again, dinner, and head to bed.
This has been going on for nearly a month since she just graduated from royal school.
She had been granted the green light by her father – by writing through letters if she could switch school to a public one, which was to her Uncle Doyoung’s school named School of Neo.
She wanted to go since most of her cousins enrolled there, and knowing soon all of her own siblings will be enrolling there too.
Just as she had her usual walkabouts, Jia heard rushed footsteps coming from the back.
“Jia!” A familiar knowing voice called, and as she turned behind, she saw two familiar faces.
“Minhyung! Royoung!” Jia called, waving towards the two boys who were running towards her. Minhyung and Royoung are Queen Anthia and Prince Doyoung’s sons, they are the first born and they are twins.
“What are you doing here? Is Auntie Anthia here?”
Minhyung smiled slightly, “No. We are here with our father.”
Jia’s face fell slightly, “Oh…”
“Don’t be sad, Jia. You’ll see her soon, she’s just busy for now. Right, Min?” Royoung turned towards his twin who was nodding. The twins knew that Jia had looked up to the twins’ mother as a mother figure ever since Queen Aera left.
“Right.” Minhyung nodded, “Anyway, did anything happen yesterday?”
Jia frowned slightly towards his question. “What do you mean?”
Minhyung glanced towards his twin – Royoung frowning down towards his cousin.
“Yesterday, in Aerina, the stars in the skies.. They were being.. Odd..” Royoung said slowly, head tilted slightly. Jia’s eyes widen slowly, now she gets his question.
“Oh!” Jia exclaimed. “In Neo too! I mean, yesterday, the stars were playing hide and seek too!” She explains, causing Minhyung and Royoung to look at each other.
“And I assume the barrier too..?” Minhyung looks at Jia with a slight wince, seeing her nodding.
Royoung clicked his tongue in confusion, “..But nothing bad happened yesterday, so why did the barrier appear?”
“That’s the thing, Ro.” Minhyung turned towards his twin. “..It means something happened. Don’t you listen to your history lessons’ in Dad’s school?” Minhyung looks at him in disbelief.
“..The barrier only appears when dark magic is involved. That was what the barrier is for. Protection from dark magic that Queen Aera had done before… she left.” Minhyung explains softly at the end, his eyes falling towards Jia who’s eyes were downcast.
“I miss her.” Jia muttered – she wasn’t afraid to be vulnerable in front of her cousins. In fact, they had seen the Jung siblings break down in Aerina’s tradition of celebrating Queen Aera’s birthday.
“We all do, Jia.” Minhyung ruffled the young one’s hair, while Royoung had his arm on her shoulders’ – pushing her slightly into his arms, as he hugged her.
The twins had heard stories about Queen Aera – most of the stories were heroic, but most were quite funny regarding her everyday lives in the palace. Which is why she is loved by many, especially by King Jaehyun.
The twins accompany Jia on her walkabouts as they go to the main floor – that’s when she sees Yoel running towards their way.
“Jia! Jia!” Yoel yelled out, with Jia basically frowning towards the older one. “You know if the royal housemaids caught you running—
“Father is back! C’mon!” Yoel didn’t waste any time to grab Jia’s hand, as they ran off from the twins – which they decided to run after the Jung siblings.
“You sure it’s her? What if it’s the Ice Warlock doing—
“We’ll know if it’s his doing, MJ.”
“And besides, no one can duplicate a human’s blood. Look, and I don’t think it’s the Ice Warlock this time.”
“Eunwoo’s right. And look at her finger….”
“..She is really pretty not gonna—
“MJ!!!”
Aera frowns at the voices that didn’t even bother to whisper. It was as if they were having a full conversation, not minding she was there. She could feel her eyes fluttering, her vision starting to focus as well as seeing faces basically looking down at her.
Once her vision has turned focused, Aera out of nowhere sat up which caused some of the unrecognisable faces to shriek while taking a step back.
Her eyes went downcast, seeing that she had fully changed into a white pyjamas-dress. Pyjamas in a dress. Aera frowned slightly, kind of little concerned about the fact that men had changed for her.
“Don’t worry, we had a female housemaid changed for you.” One of them states her worries, causing Aera to widen her eyes slightly.
“You can read minds?” Aera speaks quietly, the others kind of look towards each other.
“Well, we’re not vampires.” Another spoke, “..We are Estelleans. We are fairies, each one of us has powers and mind reading is one of them.”
‘Estelle… Which century is this?’
“Century sounds old, your majesty. First thing first, allow us to introduce ourselves. My name is Myungjun, in short, MJ.” He introduced himself first, flashing a wide smile.
“I’m Rocky, or you can call me Minhyuk. This is Eunwoo,” He pointed towards the prince-like looking one.
“..And this is Moonbin..” Eunwoo pointed towards an individual at the back who was leaning against the door – Aera could only look towards them, kind of in awe.
She quietly had her feet landed on the cold floor, she tried to stand up but her stance was wobbly causing some of the guys to go towards her – the first to reach her was Eunwoo since he was nearer to her.
“I’m afraid you have to lie down for now, your majesty. Your wound is kind of deep.” Eunwoo warned, eyes deeply gazed onto hers. Aera sighed softly as she was being sat on the bed.
“...How were you stabbed anway? How did you get into that situation in the first place?” MJ asked casually, earning a few disbelief looks from his own members. They were giving him the look of respect since he is literally speaking to the Queen of Wonderland.
Aera looks at him with a small smile – before sighing. “..By the Dark-Elf. I was stabbed by the Dark-Elf in my museum.”
Moonbin’s eyes widened, his eyes meeting his other members.
“W-wait, you’re saying the Dark-Elf was on Earth?” Rocky questioned in awe, which Aera nodded. “In-fact he disguised himself as Jaehyun – which got my attention.”
Eunwoo was now staring at Aera with full of concern – before he turned towards MJ who was already looking worried then turning towards Moonbin and Rocky who were standing at the back, mirroring the look of MJ.
“I think you need to inform the rest.” MJ turned towards Rocky and Moonbin who gave a nod towards the older one – before bowing towards Aera as they excused themselves.
Aera watched them leave. “Where are they going?”
“Writing to Neo, Athenian and—
“So I am in Wonderland!” Aera exclaims happily, earning a shocking look from Eunwoo as he chuckled to see how elated she is.
“Yes, your maj–
“Call me, Aera.” She turned towards MJ. “All of you, call me Aera. We are way past the titles, after you saved me.” Her gaze turned towards Eunwoo who looked like he was in a daze.
Now he knows why everyone loves Aera – it’s her personality.
“For the meantime, you can’t move.” MJ winced as he looked at her hips. “So maybe we could tell you stories of what happened in Wonderland while you are here till you fully recover?”
“We know you would want to return to Aerina as soon as possible.” Eunwoo continued with a small smile, which Aera nodded with a wide smile.
“Something went wrong with the constellations last night. Has been fixed by God Leon. Apologies from the Athenian household, written by the twins, Prince Jonah and Prince Joel.” Anthia read from the neat-handwriting that was from the Athenian household.
“I wonder what happened.” Anthia muttered to herself as she folded the paper, looking towards the bright sky. The Queen of Aerina was sitting on her usual desk – going on her royal routine which was checking on the reports.
She checks on each update from different parts of Wonderland – seeing if Aerina needed to support some parts but so far, there was none thanks to King Jaehyun who had been travelling around Wonderland for the past few months by sea.
Anthia puts away the documents and letters neatly as a sign that she had concluded her day when her eyes travelled towards various moving picture frames.
There were pictures of the big family of Neo and Aerina together, pictures of her own children with Aurelia and Aera’s children, and lastly pictures of herself and her two younger sisters. Anthia could feel herself smiling as she went through the pictures, with memories behind them.
The last picture, was a moving picture of Aera basically laughing, standing at the back-garden of Aerina. She was wearing a simple dress – she wasn’t in her Scarlet Witch form.
Anthia grabbed the picture frame of Aera, analysing her face that looked too happy in the future – it made Anthia smile naturally.
‘I hope you are happy out there, Aera.’
Sighing shakily, Anthia quickly put down the picture frame as she stood up from her office chair – Anthia quickly got out of the office room, to already see a familiar figure waiting for her down the hallway.
“Everything good?”
Anthia’s voice made the figure turn towards her way – seeing a small smile as she bowed towards Anthia.
“Yes, I called one of the general’s in Neo Kingdom. They said everything is back to normal.” Violeta reassured with a smile, walking beside Anthia as they headed down the stairs.
“It’s kind of weird, don’t you think?” Anthia turned towards Violeta. “The stars are fading, and it reappears again. Not to mention the barriers activated itself..?”
Violeta sighs a little loudly, “.... To think about it, Wonderland has always been weird so I can’t say much about the stars. The Athenians are the ones responsible for that.” Violeta paused, as her steps started to slow down.
“As for the barriers,” As Violeta trailed off, this caused Anthia to turn towards the General with a small frown.
Anthia started to work with Violeta ever since Aera left Wonderland – and now she understands why Aera trusted Violeta so much, even Aera had put her life in Violeta’s hands when she needed saving.
“...Jaehyun said it only activates when dark magic is involved.” Violeta whispered slightly, not wanting the housemaids that were walking passed by them to hear their conversation.
“I heard even Morian’s barrier has opened too, father called me just now.” Anthia informed quietly, which Violeta nodded. Now this made both of them frown deeply.
“..But, nothing bad happened yesterday.. So why...?” Anthia continued, while Violeta stood in front of the Queen.
“Maybe someone or something wanted to break into the castle, but failed to do whatever they were trying.” Violeta guessed, which Anthia shook her head while sighing through her nose. She was frustrated because it has been a while since this happened.
The last time it happened, she received direct news from Jia, one of Jaehyun and Aera’s children. It was revealed that the Ice Warlock was trying to enter Aerina but failed due to Aera’s protection barrier.
“It can’t be the Ice Warlock,” Anthia said in disbelief and Violeta was about to reply when rushed footsteps were heard – seeing a very familiar figure walking towards them.
“Zen, you look like you were being chased by maidens.” Violeta teased, wiggling her brows towards the Queen – seeing Anthia shaking her head to Violeta’s forever teasing towards Zen who was glaring towards the General.
“What is it, Zen?” Anthia looked towards Zen who was gripping onto a letter a little too hard. Zen’s composure straightens, he looks a little too nervous to say the next words.
“It’s from Athenian.” Zen said – Anthia gesturing Zen to continue his words. “They said that Queen Aera is in Wonderland.”
Anthia froze on the spot, while Violeta was looking towards the letter – she didn’t even ask Zen for the letter as she snatched it away from his grip. Her eyes moved left and right in a speed where no one had seen her read before.
There was a smile coming from Violeta as she turned towards Anthia, “Anthia, Aera is back! She’s finally back!”
Anthia’s eyes fluttered in tears, as she broke out into a smile. “..Where is she now? H-How..?”
“That’s the thing, your majesty.” Zen quietly said before pulling another letter out towards the two ladies which Anthia quickly got ahold of.
Just like Violeta, she reads at a fast pace, causing her to gasp – a worried frown was shown on her face.
“What? What happened?” Violeta questioned at the same peering onto the letter – a look of concern formed slowly as she reads the letter.
I received a letter from the Athenian Kingdom that the Gods and Goddes of Constellations were supposed to transport Queen Aera to Athenian, but they made a mistake on transporting the Queen to Estellea.
Queen Aera is in Estellea castle right now under Prince Eunwoo, Prince Rocky, Prince Moonbin and Prince MJ’s care.
I have examined the wound from Queen Aera’s and it was from the Dark Elf.
Prince Eunwoo has also told me that Queen Aera has been attacked by the Dark-Elf on Earth, which was impossible. As we have lived in Wonderland for centuries, we only know a powerful being could travel to Earth.
Perhaps our greatest fear has come true?
If it is, we have to get ready, your majesty.
Do visit Estellea to see Queen Aera as she is waiting for you.
