#got7 royal scenarios
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Prince BamBam~ Royal!AU
WARNINGS: Fluff, Some Violence
A/N: heyo i’m back bitches also this is trash im so sorry i may redo this
Prince BamBam is very dashing, elegant, and confident.
He knew how good looking he was, but he never let it go to his head.
He takes very good care of himself, always wanting to look his best.
He was very skilled in hand to hand combat, as the King wanted him to learn for “just in case” purposes.
BamBam never thought he would have to use it one day
He seemed to take after the King in more ways than one.
The King was handsome, his looks and charismatic personality could captivate you; and he knew this.
The Queen was a marvelous woman, she was fierce, strong, and also very kind; which was unexpected to some.
BamBam was their pride and joy, they wanted the best for him...which is why they invited the royal family of a Princess they thought would be the best for him.
BamBam was shocked and upset when he found out about this, he didn't even like her, let alone want to marry and rule a kingdom with her.
He didn't have a love like that for anyone...well, he thought that he didn't.
You continued to stitch up your dress for your performance at the opera house later that night as your best friend, BamBam, paced back and forth, letting out a frustrated sigh as he ran his hand through his hair, “How could they do this to me? I thought I made it clear to them that I don't want to be with her!”
BamBam is supposed to be attending the Opera with his parents, the neighboring Princess, and the neighboring King and Queen.
After he was informed about it, he immediately fled to your home in the Kingdom, needing to vent to someone he could trust.
“How awful could she be?” you asked, curious about why he seemingly loathed this Princess.
BamBam started telling you about how stuck up and rude she is, how he couldn't stand being near her because she would link her arms with his, she already had it in her mind that BamBam was her future spouse.
You couldn't help but feel slightly jealous. You’ve always tried to suppress your feelings for your friend, I mean he is a prince; but they always come back in moments such as this one. “I just wish they would understand that I do not wish for this, I would rather rule alone.” BamBam sighed, his head falling down.
You stop what you’re doing and walk over to him, “It’ll all work out Bam, I know it will, I feel it. Just try to enjoy yourself tonight, okay? I’ll see after the show, behind the building.” He nods and sighs once more, “I should go back, I need to prepare myself for tonight anyway.” You both say your goodbyes and continue with your dress.
Hours later, as the night fell upon the sky, you paced backstage in the opera house, nervous about your song you were performing, nervous about BamBam hearing you for the first time.
Alas, your performance stunned everyone in the theatre, especially BamBam. You had found him in the crowd, locking eyes with him as you belted out the love song for the scene in play.
Neither noticed the Queen looking between you two and gesturing for the King to look, they realized that their son was already in love with someone, it was just a matter of getting you two together. But soon that would play out on it’s own
After the show, you had walked outside, behind the opera house where you were supposed to see BamBam. All of a sudden, a man had you pushed up against the wall, a man who wasn’t BamBam.
“Hello darling, I must say, you are absolutely to die for.” he breathed into your face.
You tried to push him away, “Leave me alone,” but he was starting to get forceful.
“I always get what I want, and I want you.”
Before another thing could happen, the man was ripped away from you and a fight had started, the other man apart of it being BamBam.
BamBam was beating this man almost to a pulp, before you knew it, the man was running away.
“Are you okay?” he asked, frantically. You just nodded.
“Bam...You saved me. Who knows what he could’ve done,” you almost whispered in a cracked voice, tears welling up in your eyes. BamBam immediately came up to you and hugged you, pulling back for a second to look at you, his hand caressing your face.
“Of course...I-...I love you”
#got7 scenarios#got7 imagines#got7 scenario#got7 imagine#got7 bambam#bambam imagine#bambam imagines#bambam scenario#got7!au#got7 prince!au#got7 royal!au#got7 au
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Royal Family of Morian Kingdom
THE RETURNED KING, KING MORIAN
“I will protect the kingdom till my last breath.”
name ― Aquilles Morian Nikolaus
species ― Titan God, Werewolf
titles(s)― King Morian
personality ― Considerate, Daring, Forgiving
PRINCE JAEBEOM
“I'm sorry.”
name ― Lim Jaebeom
species ― Wolf-Shifter, Alpha
titles(s)― Prince Jaebeom
personality ― Attentive, Dominating, Responsible
PRINCE MARK
“Look who's back.”
name ― Mark Tuan
species ― Wolf-Shifter, Beta/Warrior
titles(s)― Prince Mark
personality ― Attentive, Reserve, Supportive
PRINCE JACKSON
“I prefer to be single after seeing how Jaebeom's relationship is like.”
name ― Jackson Wang
species ― Wolf-Shifter, Delta/Warrior
titles(s)― Prince Jackson
personality ― Companionly, Fun-loving, Silly
PRINCE JINYOUNG
“Thank Wonderland you visit us. I'm getting a huge headache whenever we have to go back to work, which is the palace itself.”
name ― Park Jinyoung
species ― Wolf-Shifter, Beta
titles(s)― Prince Jinyoung
personality ― Caring, Empathetic, Possessive
PRINCE YOUNGJAE
“Please, please, please teach him. I think I'm going crazy the more I chase after him.”
name ― Choi Youngjae
species ― Wolf-Shifter, Healer (Professor)
titles(s)― Prince Youngjae
personality ― Empathic, Observant, Optimistic
PRINCE BAMBAM
“..Didn't know he grew up to be a rebel.. like his Dad...”
name ― Bambam
species ― Wolf-Shifter, Hunter
titles(s)― Prince Bambam
personality ― Charming, Sassy, Transparent
PRINCE YUGYEOM
“Give him some time, he is in the rebellious phase.”
name ― Kim Yugyeom
species ― Wolf-Shifter, Omega
titles(s)― Prince Yugyeom
personality ― Genuine, Loyal, Sentimental
PRINCE JUNO
“..I'm disgusted to be related to you.”
name ― Lim Leon Juno
species ― Demigod
titles(s)― Jaebeom’s Hidden Son, Son of The Unfortunate Princess
personality ― Energetic, Individualistic, Observant
THE HEAD GARDENER, IRIS
“I'm happy, thanks to King Morian and Queen Aerina!”
name ― Iris Reiter
species ― Nymph
titles(s)― Head Gardener of Morian
personality ― Daring, Focused, Patient
THE HEAD OF MORIAN'S ORPHANAGE, MIRIANA
name ― Miriana Amabel
species ― Amazon
titles(s)― Head of Morian's Orphanage
personality ― Carefree, Daring, Friendly
KINGDOM OF MORIAN [mood board], characters : Morian Royal Family
KINGDOM OF AERINA [mood board], characters : Aerina Royal Family
KINGDOM OF ATHENIAN [mood board], characters : Athenian Royal Family
KINGDOM OF NEO [mood board], THE JUNGS [mood board], characters : Neo Royal Family - 127, DREAM, WAYV
KHIONEA, THE FALLEN ICE KINGDOM [mood board], characters
her wonderland : for infinity [the 3rd adventure]
#her wonderland : for infinity#her 3rd adventure#got7 au#got7 fantasy#got7 royal au#got7 royal#got7 scenarios#got7 imagines
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The Palace / Got7
♔ Kingdom of Mark ♔
Taken to Tuan Kingdom as they are lacking of staff to treat sick people, Princess Aera has also learn to become a more respectful and lovable person - yet she still doesn’t want to associate herself with the royalties.
In The Royal House
the invitation, his time
♘ Extras ♘
About her
♖ Tags ♖
aesthetics
his stories
inspo
visage
♔ Kingdom of Jb ♔
Being force to follow her father's footstep of becoming a bodyguard, Hyesung has to work in the royal household. Unofficially, she tends to be the Prince Jaebeom's bodyguard and now, Hyesung is officially an employee of the royal household of the Kim after saving the prince from being killed.
In The Royal House
his feelings, his loyal friends
♘ Extras ♘
About her
♖ Tags ♖
aesthetics
his stories
inspo
visage
♔ Kingdom of Jackson ♔
Princess Minjung is a young woman who is well-known for her excellence in her swordsmanship and archery - but there was one flaw that she had to improve, her academic and her confidence towards facing her own feelings.
In The Royal House
the dance, the night
♘ Extras ♘
About her
♖ Tags ♖
aesthetics
his stories
inspo
visage
♔ Kingdom of Jinyoung ♔
Colonel Ahn has been working with King Park - being the King's bodyguard, hence both of them have been really close that they are best friends. After involving herself with wars, Lieutenant Yuna would join her journey on working with her father - in the Royal Household of The Park Kingdom.
In The Royal House
her body, his worries
♘ Extras ♘
About her
♖ Tags ♖
aesthetics
his stories
inspo
visage
♔ Kingdom of Youngjae ♔
Sailing to different parts of other kingdoms, Princess Jinae as well as her sister, has been claimed 'dead' by other royal families as they weren't aware that the princesses of The Hwang Kingdom are actually living in the sea.
In The Royal House
♘ Extras ♘
About her
♖ Tags ♖
aesthetics
his stories
inspo
visage
♔ Kingdom of Bambam ♔
Leaving her past behind, Princess Eunjung has also left her memories with a certain prince whom she made a lot of moments with - before leaving him behind to go to war.
In The Royal House
♘ Extras ♘
About her
♖ Tags ♖
aesthetics
his stories
inspo
visage
♔ Kingdom of Yugyeom ♔
Finding out that other royal families claimed that both of the princesses of Hwang Kingdom are dead, Princess Soojin decided to return back to the first kingdom where she starts her journey as one of the warrior princesses.
In The Royal House
♘ Extras ♘
About her
♖ Tags ♖
aesthetics
his stories
inspo
visage
#masterlist#got7 royal#got7 royal scenarios#got7 royal imagines#got7 imagines#got7 scenarios#got7 as princes#got7 jb#got7 mark#got7 jinyoung#got7 jackson#got7 youngjae#got7 bambam#got7 yugyeom#@yup-indecisive-girl-cece
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Pairing: (F)Reader x Jinyoung
Word count: 1k
Genre: Royal AU | Prince!Jinyoung | Princess!Reader | Fluff | Romance
Summary: Jinyoung teaches you how to ballroom dance
Warnings: -
Masterlist
A/n: I highly, highly, highly recommend that you listen to this while you read. It’s Studio Ghibli and it gave me the inspiration to write this so it’ll set the vibe uwu
[20:03]
“Quite the ball your parents have hosted.” The voice makes you turn around to see the prince from the neighbouring kingdom.
“They host quite grand events,” you hum.
“Prince Jinyoung,” he bows, introducing himself.
“I know who you are, your highness,” you chuckle. “The need to introduce yourself has passed.”
“I haven’t spoken to you in a while. Wouldn’t want you to forget me,” Jinyoung teases.
“You and your jokes,” you roll your eyes, a small smile tugging at your lips.
“Is it not a duty for me to make The Princess (Y/n) laugh at least a little bit?” He holds his chest to mock hurt. “For someone who claims their parents host quite grand balls, you look rather dull. Are you not enjoying the ball, princess (Y/n)?”
“You know I’m not one for balls. The only need for them is for my parents to find me a prince to court.” You take a sip from your drink, turning your attention to the crowd.
“I always thought balls were more fun with music,” he comments. As if on cue, the live band in the corner of the ballroom starts. The crowd scatters to form space in the centre. “Dance with me, your highness” Jinyoung extends his hand in your direction when the music starts playing.
“I’m not much of a dancer,” you shake your head. You were never one who cared much for balls since you didn’t really enjoy dancing.
“Just take my lead.” The young prince tugs on your hand despite your protests, leading you to the centre of the ballroom. His left hand is firm on your waist, his right holding your hand up, “follow my movement. If I sway left, then your left foot takes a step back. If I sway right, you take a right step back.” Jinyoung is slow at first, testing the waters while you carefully follow his movements. “There you go,” he praises once you seem to get the hang of it. “Soon you won’t even have to think about it. Relax your body. Just move with the music,” he hums.
Jinyoung guides you around the ballroom, in the centre of the crowd of other nobles who sway with the rhythm of the music. You start to understand why the balls your parents would host were such big things. You let your body do the moving, your mind solely focused on how Jinyoung’s body slowly relaxes the more accustomed you become to dancing.
“I’m going to twirl you now,” he tells you. When he twirls you around, you catch a glimpse of the jealous women watching you, glares directly towards you. Jinyoung lowers you, your left leg extending out naturally to balance yourself.
“Those ladies are giving me quite the glare,” you chuckle.
“Who are they to say anything when you’re the princess?” he grins cheekily as he pulls you back to your feet. You understand why they would be so jealous. Jinyoung is absolutely gorgeous. His dark red suit is perfectly tailored to fit the young prince, the fabric soft under your hand as he continues to bring you around the ballroom. “The tempo might get a bit faster,” Jinyoung warns you when he hears the music slow down, his face filling with worry that you might panic.
“Then let your rhythm carry mine, dear prince.” All traces of worry fades from his face. His grip tightens more securely. Just as he had predicted, the tempo became way faster than before. You follow the movement of his body, your feet starting to become lighter the more you dance. Every other being in the room seems to disappear when the tempo slows to become something more… romantic. You’re only focused on Jinyoung.
“You’re doing well for someone who said they don’t dance much,” he quips.
“Oh hush,” you roll your eyes, unable to stop the smile growing on your face. “I don’t enjoy dancing that much because I never seem to have a partner.” The tempo starts speeding up, but you barely even notice it. You only realise it when Jinyoung spins you around, stopping you when you’re right in front of him; faces inches apart.
The music has come to a halt as well, soft applause erupting from the crowd that was watching the dance. The both of you are breathing heavily. Your hand slowly slides down from Jinyoung’s shoulder, stopping above his heart where you feel his heart beating rapidly while he pants softly.
“You are quite the natural dancer, Princess (Y/n),” he praises.
“All with your guide, Prince Jinyoung,” you smile. “It’s quite warm in here,” you mutter as you look around. There’s a light sheen of sweat on your skin that would ruin the makeup you spent quite a while on.
“Shall we head to a balcony to get some fresh air?” Jinyoung suggests.
“That just might be what I need right now,” you smile.
“You mentioned that the reason you didn’t enjoy dancing was because you didn’t have a partner?” he questions once on the balcony, the two of you shying away from the crowd.
“The other princes are rather rude. More often than not, they act snobbish and treat me as though I’m not of royal blood. Princesses, on the other hand, refuse to dance with another princess because of competitive reasons.” You pause to let out a sigh. “The women that were glaring at me? A handful of them were princesses from other kingdoms.”
“Why care what the other princesses think?” he questions. You turn to him, your eyes silently asking to elaborate more on his question. “Forget I said that,” Jinyoung clears his throat, shaking his head lightly. “If I may, I would like to ask you to be my dance partner.” Your eyes widen, a blush creeping onto your cheeks. “You’re quite the dancer, (Y/n). I would like to have more dances with you if you would allow me to.” You check his eyes for any sign of mischief, but there’s only genuinity in his soft brown eyes.
“I would love that.”
#kwritersworldnet#got7creators#got7#got7 imagines#got7 scenarios#got7 timestamps#got7 drabbles#got7 fluff#got7 royal au#got7 romance#park jinyoung#park jinyoung got7#park jinyoung imagines#park jinyoung scenarios#park jinyoung timestamps#park jinyoung drabbles#park jinyoung fluff#park jinyoung royal au#park jinyoung prince au#park jinyoung romance#jinyoung#jinyoung got7#jinyoung imagines#jinyoung scenarios#jinyoung timestamps#jinyoung drabbles#jinyoung fluff#jinyoung romance#jinyoung royal au#jinyoung prince au
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ℭ𝔥𝔞𝔭𝔱𝔢𝔯 1
ℭ𝔥𝔞𝔭𝔱𝔢𝔯 2
ℭ𝔥𝔞𝔭𝔱𝔢𝔯 3
ℭ𝔥𝔞𝔭𝔱𝔢𝔯 4
ℭ𝔥𝔞𝔭𝔱𝔢𝔯 5 (Coming Soon)
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Jinyoung Royal Au?
🥺does anyone know any royal Park Jinyoung imagines, drabbles, scenarios, series?¿ im dying here
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Dogs playing poker
Reverse Royal AU
Part 2: Youngjae & Jaebum
Fandom: IGOT7// AHGASE
Pairing: Youngjae x princess!reader & Jaebum x princess!reader
Summary: Youngjae gets lost in the castle but someone finds him and leads him somewhere he didn’t know he needed to be. & Jaebum is introduced to the artist behind the hall of paintings. Reader is not the same character. Different characters but still reader insert.
*Will only make sense if you read part 1*
Youngjae got separated from the Maknae’s when he got distracted by a dog. The dog just looked so friendly so he couldn’t help himself but to pet it. And when he looked back it was only himself and the dog in the hallway, with BamBam and Yugyeom nowhere to be found. He felt a little uneasy at first, alone and lost in a strange place but it’s almost impossible to be upset around animals.
“I seem to be lost Mr doggy.” He said, scratching the dogs head. “Do you live here?” He asked. The dog whined in response, causing Youngjae to grin. On one side of the collar was a crown, on the other side a name.
“Zeus?” The dog barked in response. Youngjae laughed. The dog sniffed him a bit before getting up and walking to the end of the hall, Youngjae tilted his head at the dog, wondering if he wanted him to follow. The dog barked once more and Youngjae took that as the sign to follow. The dog lead him through the palace corridors, past many important looking rooms and even a large window that overlooked the garden. He stopped when he saw Mark, wandering around the garden. A few meters away, a girl stopped prancing around and noticed Mark. The dog barked, regaining Youngjae’s attention.
The dog led Youngjae out of the castle and to the stables.
“I appreciate the help Mr doggy but why did you bring me here?” Youngjae asked. The dog barked and a girl came out from one of the stalls, you. Your eyes lit up when you saw your dog. Zeus was known to roam the palace grounds but he usually stayed close, you were just about to go looking for him when he brought his friend.
“There you are.” You went up and crouched in front of him petting him generously. “Where have you been buddy?” You looked up to see a handsome boy standing next to him.
“I got lost in the castle and he lead me here.” He said scratching the back of his neck sheepishly. You giggled at the cute boy and looked at your dog with an eyebrow raised, Zeus just tilted his head at you. You stood up and held your hand out to the boy. “I’m Y/N.”
“Youngjae.”
“Ah so you’re one of the members of the band that my sister loves so much.” He looked away shyly, as he always did when someone mentioned his fame. One of the horses whined, Youngjae followed you to the stall and watched as you cooed to the large animal. The horse nodded under your touch making you giggle and Youngjae smile. The girl in front of him was so different than the princess he met earlier. Were you really royalty? With your muddy boots and hay sticking out of your hair.
“Do you want to pet him?” Youngjae looked uneasy. You fished a small apple out of your jacket pocket and held it out for him to take. “He’s really gentile I promise.”
Youngjae took the apple and held it out for the horse, slowly getting closer. You giggled, taking his wrist, “lay your hand flat.” You instructed and the horse took the apple from Youngjae's hand happily. Youngjae laughed and that's when you found out how contagious his smile was. Suddenly the horse reared, something unusual for other horses when they were happy but not your horse, so you were fine but it scared Youngjae. Instinctively, he pulled you away into his arms. Unconsciously you buried your face in his chest trying to hide your blush and when you realised what you were doing you blushed even harder.
“Are you okay?” Youngjae asked you. Even though you weren’t scared at all. It was just him. Someone cleared their throat, the both of you looked towards the same doors Youngjae and Zeus entered through. One of the palace staff stood by the door.
“Your highness, it is time for the welcoming dinner.”
Jaebum
“Where’s Jinyoung?” Mark asked. Jaebum shrugged.
“I was looking at one of the paintings and when I turned around he was gone.” Jaebum whispered back a little panicked, hoping his friend wouldn’t get into any trouble.
“I’m sure someone will be able to direct him to the dining hall. But first we have to make a pit stop.” The palace staff lead them through the palace then up to a tower. “Princess?” The person called. The boys looked at each other once more, this time with eyebrows raised. When the person heard no response, he entered the tower, motioning for the boys to follow, for if one was to wander off again, who knows how long it would take to find him. The four men entered the room cautiously, the staff looked around, searching for you while the boys mouths dropped in awe. The room was covered in sketches and paintings, aside from a large set of doors that opened up to a balcony. An easel was set up with a canvas and paint, and even though it was not finished it was still amazing.
“James.” You hissed, coming up behind them. “You know I don’t like people in here.” You scolded, eyeing the strange boy inspecting your walls.
“My apologies princess, I was told to inform you that it is time for dinner.” The man handed you a rag to wipe your hands as if that would do anything other than ruin the cloth.
“I’ll wash up and meet you there.” You waved him off, turning on your heel to go back to your latest project.
“I was informed to see to it that you come.” He stated. “We will accompany you to your room and wait outside as you wash up.” You sighed, knowing he was only doing his job by annoying you into dinner. So the five of you set off to your room, passing the hallway filled with your portraits. Jaebum noted that the techniques used were similar to the ones in the tower.
“I suppose I’ll have to change the whole display, I’m sure everyone is tired of looking at these by now.” You sighed, thinking out loud.
“I’m sure whatever you come up with will be genius again princess.” James spoke. You rolled your eyes knowing he had to say that but you thanked him anyways.
“These are all yours?” One of the boys, the cute one, asked. You nodded, making a point to stare daggers into the back of James’ head.
“They’re amazing.” The handsome one said. You smiled at him. “You’re very talented.”
You looked away shyly. “Thank you, you’re all very kind. I’m Y/N, the third princess.”
“It’s an honour, I’m Jaebum, this is Mark. ” The cute one spoke pointing to his friend who looked a little confused.
“Hi, uh, should we...bow?” Mark asked. You giggled.
“I would save the formalities for when you are in front of my father.” You say, James opened the door for you, and you slipped inside your room. As soon as the door closed you rushed to your mirror to check if you were as pink as you felt.
#got7 imagines#GOT7 fanfiction#got7 senarios#got7 reactions#youngjae imagines#choi youngjae imagine#got7 fluff#royal au#im jaebum scenario#im jaebum fanfic#im jaebum imagine#lim jaebeom imagine#im jaebum fluff
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royal au: im jaebum
i! don't! know! what! this! is! also everyone writes jaebum as a bad boy but im not buying it. he’s soft. his ideal date is eating ramen by a river, for gods sake. let the boy be soft.
jaebum is the youngest king in your kingdom’s history
and he hasn’t yet made himself look stupid or anything
which is pretty incredible considering how young he is
you’d think that he’d still be growing up, learning how to be the king his people need him to be
but he’s always impeccably composed… except for that one time he got mad at the senate and his chin grew two inches
to be fair, they were trying to cut funding to educational facilities
jaebum is silent and looks pretty intimidating, but he really does care about the people relying on him
he doesn’t care much for wearing any of the royal jewels
you’ll never catch him in a crown
but he does wear a few rings around his fingers and occasionally simple earrings will frame his face
and they look so good on him, but they also elaborate on the ‘rough around the edges’ look he has going
like, he’s a kind king who leaves his palace open to stray cats that need food and water, but he also looks like he would mess you up if you got into a fight with him
and you,,,, well, you’re not really sure what to make of him
but you were hired to paint his portrait, so... maybe you’ll figure it out?
to be honest, you’re not really sure why the palace decided to hire you, of all people
you’re just a young, aspiring artist who happens to live in the area
but it’s not like you were going to turn down a royal commission
you’re not crazy
shortly after you accepted the job, the palace sent a messenger to you with an envelope of money to fund your purchase of a canvas, paints, brushes, etc
but it was way more money than you needed
“um, should i just return the spare change?”
“no, the king insists you keep all of it”
you’re not complaining! money is nice!
so you do your job and find the best materials for the job
you always put your all into your work, but damn it y/n, you can not mess up even a little on this one
it has to be perfect. p e r f e c t.
and a few weeks later, you gather your materials in a bag, having already sent the canvas to the castle, and start the journey to the gates
you grab a danish on the way, the sweet pastry melting away some of your apprehensions
like what will the king be like? what if you make him mad? ahgdkhdsah
calm down, y/n, he’s dealt with more annoying people than you. he has to talk to senators on like, a daily basis
it’ll be fine
this will help your career so! much!
with that thought in your head, you come to the gates and state your name to a guard, who motions you inside
where a butler bows his head and asks you to follow him to the painting room
which is... definitely more grand than the usual places you paint in
your canvas is propped up in front of a plush chair facing a window
perfect! natural lighting! the palace knows its stuff!
the butler tells you that the king will arrive shortly, so you start to arrange your paints and brushes in a way that you can easily reach and see each one
you pull your hair back in a headband to be absolutely positive that you’re getting the best view of the king
as you steady your nerves once more with a few deep breaths, you hear the doors open and the sound of footsteps walking towards you
you turn and, upon seeing who it is, fall into a bow
when you come up, king jaebum is gazing at you without much expression in his face
so, off to a great start
“i’m y/n. i’m honored to have the opportunity to paint your portrait” you say, unsure of what else you could do
when he doesn’t respond, you offer a nervous smile
which softens something in his stare
“just don’t paint me on a horse, please”
and believe it or not, the smallest smirk is tugging at his lips
“roger that- no horses! actually, i was going to ask you to just sit on that chair and do whatever makes you comfortable. so, you could read a book or write or just look out the window if you wanted.”
and at first you’re kicking yourself for speaking so casually to him, but he doesn’t seem to mind at all
well... you are close to his age...... and it’s probably been a while since someone spoke to him like.... a person
“i’ll go with the window”
“alright! go ahead and sit, then, and i’ll adjust you if i need to”
and sure enough, when you go behind your canvas and look over his position, you decide to readjust
but instead of just telling him to move his head so that he was facing you a bit more and to hold his shoulder slightly off the seat like a normal person,
you walk over to him and lightly touch the side of his face to turn it towards your canvas
the butler clears his throat and you’re like woAH
“i’m sorry, i wasn’t thinking-”
“it’s fine” jaebum says, a small laugh escaping his lips
and heyheyhey he’s attractive as hell when he smiles
especially now that you’re so close to him
“....anyway, if you could hold you shoulder ever so slightly away from the chair and turn your head a bit more towards me- yes, exactly like that!”
and you start painting, unaware that between glances you take of him, the king takes his eyes off the window and watches you
the way you squint over the tiny details or shuffle around to get the right angle
how you brushed a piece of hair out of your face and unknowingly trailed just a tiny bit of green paint across your hairline
you’re... the most unique person he’s encountered in a long time
until two hours pass in this fashion and his butler announces that he has to get back to his more demanding royal duties
you finish up one last detail and step back, setting your brush on a table and bowing again to the king
“you don’t have to do that”
... what? did the king just tell you not to bow to him
he clears his throat a bit and elaborates “we’re going to be here for a week or so, so we may as well be friends.”
“i-i’m fine with that”
he smiles, his eyes squinting “then i’ll see you tomorrow, y/n”
it’s the first time he’s said your name and it feels like a shiver running slowly down your spine
oh no no y/n, you’re not developing a crush on the king, of all people. no nonononono
“you, too...”
“call me jaebum”
“i don’t think i shoul-”
“it’s an order”
and this time he’s not hiding his smirk or the mirth in his eyes
who knew the king was so mischievous?
“alright. jaebum”
he takes your hand and presses a kiss to the back of your palm, his eyes never leaving yours
and just like that- as if he hadn’t just left you stunned- he turns on his heel and walks out of the room
well, as far as first days at new jobs go, this one wasn’t terrible
not even a little bit terrible
also... can any job be that bad when you get to stare at someone as attractive as the king.... jaebum... and get paid for it?? that’s a pretty sweet deal
and then you get home and see the green paint on your hairline
you’re like Oh MY GOD this has been the most embarrassing day of my life
but like... jaebum doesn’t understand why he can’t get you, with that little dab of green paint on your face, out of his head
or the way your touch had felt against his face, so feather light
it’s been a while since anyone had the courage to touch him so blatantly... it’s cute
and over the next few days, you gradually grow more accustomed to and comfortable with jaebum
when you call for a break, not only for you but for jaebum (sitting that still is hard, ok), he orders some tea and cookies and talks with you
and you’re bewildered as to how you ever thought he seemed intimidating
because yeah, he can seem cold from afar, with his intense stare and quieter nature
the way he stoically delivers orders to his subordinates
or how he still greets you with just a thin-lipped smile and a nod
but then he’ll like... miss his mouth when eating a tangerine and just kinda boop his chin
and then he’ll give the tangerine a little glare
as if it’s the fruit’s fault
or he’ll see you shiver in the cool palace air and ask one of the butlers to fetch a jacket for you
lately, he walks you to the palace gates when you’re done with your session for the day
and it’s then, in those quiet moments to yourselves with no butlers around, that you get him to laugh and smile like he means it
once, you picked a dandelion and blew all the seeds into his face
“oops” you said, smiling
he blinked at you, breaking into a smile, himself
“did you at least make a wish?”
“a wish?”
“aren’t you supposed to make a wish when you blow those things away?”
the tips of his ears turned red
“i did make a wish, actually”
“what was it?”
“well, i can’t tell you! then it won't come true”
“i’m the king, i’m sure i could help it come true”
“it’s magic! you can’t mess with it! everyone knows that”
you bend down to pick another dandelion, handing it to jaebum “here, make your own wish”
he laughs “you want me to make a wish?”
“well, you’re the youngest king we’ve ever had- that’s got to be stressful. you might as well get to wish for a day off or a vacation or, i don’t know, maybe you just want me to finish that portrait already”
at that, he looks at you, a curious expression on his face “i don’t want you to finish it”
“what, never?”
he doesn’t answer, instead blowing the dandelion seeds into the air and takes a step towards you
and for a second you imagine his kiss against your lips, his hands roaming
how his hair would feel between your fingers
but then he takes your hand and kisses the back like he always does
“tomorrow, y/n”
“... right”
the next day, everything went how it usually did
jaebum sat, looking regal, and you painted him
you were nearly done, actually. probably only needed another session or two and you’d be done
you were going to miss it, if you were being honest
jaebum turned out to be a part of your day that you looked forward to
and now... would you ever talk to him again?
at the end of the session, jaebum ushered his butler out of the room with a telling glance and approached you
he was silent for a second, his tongue probing the corner of his mouth
“y/n- the palace is hosting a gala to honor a visiting diplomat next week. will you come?”
“oh! i’d be honored to attend!”
“to be clear, i was asking if you would attend at my side”
oh
oH
OH
“oh,”
“if you don’t want to, that-”
“i do, i do! and i will! go with you, i mean” you clarify, flustered
jaebum bites his lip, obviously trying to hold back a smile
“ah, good, i was hoping you’d say that”
but you have to know if this means what you think it means
“why me, though? not that im not excited-”
“i like you, y/n”
and now you’re really smiling, a blush dusting your cheeks
“ah, good,” you mimic his statement from earlier “i was hoping you’d say that”
he laughs, taking your hand to lay a kiss on it like he always does
but afterwards, instead of dropping your hand, he leans forward
and you can smell his cologne and feel the heat from his body and woooah boy
he tilts your head so that he’s looking into your eyes and your lips are practically aching with the thought of what could happen
he leans down so that his lips are brushing your ears
and he speaks, his voice low
“you’ve got paint on your face”
you pull back a bit, shocked, your hand flying up to find it
jaebum laughs, his hands pulling you back to him
“it’s right.... here”
and then he kisses your forehead
“tomorrow, y/n?”
“tomorrow.”
and you can’t wait.
#got7#got7 imagines#got7 scenarios#got7 reactions#royal au#got7 jaebum#im jaebum#im jaebum scenarios#im jaebum imagines#im jaebum fluff#jaebum scenarios#jaebum imagines#jaebum fluff#got7 jaebum fluff#got7 jaebum scenarios#got7 jaebum imagines#got7 jb#got7 jb scenarios#got7 jb fluff#got7 jb imagines
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Love of a Dragon
{Pt.2 }
{ Story beautifully written by @theboyswhomwelove and moodboard by @gucciprincekimtaehyung }
Dragon Fantasy story ft Jackson as the beautiful shapeshifting dragon and you as his unlucky newfound treasure
And so began your long ensnarement as the precious treasure of Jackson the dragon. You had a chamber to yourself, you were provided meals and the random conversation with Jackson but nothing could make you forget about your poor village. So every evening when the dragon went to find his supper, you would endeavor to escape.
You threatened his life with weapons to which he overpowered you easily. You attempted to lure him into a slumber with some mushroom tea but he shook it off once he transformed into his dragon form. Try and try as you may, Jackson was no simple man to trick or outmaneuver. He was an immortal dragon with enough magic and prowess to outdo any human, capable or not.
Something changed in your dynamic of capturer and captured, however. One day, just when you thought Jackson was preparing to leave for his meal, he ran up and grabbed you by your upper arms.
“I’ve got a deal for you,” He announced with glee, “If you can escape me, I will let you go. I’ll even give you a head start. But if I capture you again, I win a kiss from you.”
“A kiss?!” You exclaimed. Your mind went to a heartwarming place where you pecked his dragon form’s cheek. That was hardly a concession for finally being able to leave this place. “Fine. You’ve got a deal.”
“After you,” Jackson made a flourish with his hands.
You broke into a full out run out of the gates and across the drawbridge. You were into the forest before you knew it. You hopped gnarled roots and dodged outreaching branches. This was the farthest you had gotten. Perhaps you could get to that clearing; perhaps there was still time to save your village–
“Boo.”
You slammed right into Jackson’s chest. You curse yourself for being in your head instead of being on the lookout for your captor.
“So do I get my kiss now or…?” He grinned, his eyes dancing.
“You’ll get a kiss from my fists,” You can’t help but snarl.
Jackson chucks your chin with a finger, “That’s my girl.”
“I’m–not–what?!” You sputtered, unable to find your words. Your ears were hot with embarrassment. Without another word, you spin around on your heel and begin the long trek back to the castle.
“You won’t be able to get in. I drew the drawbridge back up.”
You can’t help but stomp your foot in frustration. “And so?”
His response is changing into his dragon form, gripping you gently in his talons and bringing you back the old fashion way. He took a different route this time. He followed a winding river and you glimpsed a herd of horses. Jackson dipped lower and you gasped. It was a herd of unicorns!
When you finally get released at the castle, it’s not in the courtyard but a wide entrance in the back to a tower that you had never been in before. You looked around and saw random piles of treasure. Ah, so this is where he was keeping his hoard.
Jackson changed back to his human form. “Now, before you can yell, I–”
“Thank you for showing me the unicorns. I’ve always wanted to see one since I was a little girl.” You cut off Jackson before he can finish his sentence.
“Uh…” Jackson looked a little dumb struck before showing a goofy smile, “Sure. Anything for my treasure.”
Your face is getting hot again. “I’m going to go eat.”
“I’ll join you! Besides, you don’t know where to go from here.”
That was odd, considering you always ate alone in a dining room fit for an emperor and his entire court.
You both eat at opposite ends of an impossibly long table. Jackson devoured anything within his reach as you nibbled on your silver fork, not sure if you were impressed or weirded out. No wonder he ate in his dragon form. You could only imagine what kind of appetite he had as a shapeshifter.
“Well, I’m going to retire now,” You excused yourself from the table.
“Goodnight!” Jackson beamed at you as you left.
#got7#jackson#jackson wang#got7 jackson#dragon!au#dragon!jackson#jackson imagine#jackson wang imagine#jackson scenarios#jackson wang scenarios#jackson moodboard#jackson wang moodboard#jackson wang aesthetic#jackson aesthetic#dragon aesthetic#dragon moodboard#white aesthetic#Royal aesthetic
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Prince/King au or mafia au
Ok so I have two ideas about a royal au or a mafia au and idk which one I should do or who to do it about?? It could possibly be a series of multiple guys.
So if y’all think I should do a royal or mafia au let me know and who I should do it about! Whoever name I see the most I’ll do!!!
#request#royal au#mafia au#ambw#kpop#jaemin#nct#bts#seventeen reaction#reactions#smut#fluff#scenarios#au#got7#imagines#ill actually be dedicated to this i swear#summer just started so im free for this!!!#V#suga#rm#jhope#mark tuan#jackson wang#jinyoung#taeyong#mark lee#jisung
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Prince Jackson Wang~ Royal!AU
WARNINGS: Narcissistic Parent, Angst, Fluff, Jackson Being A Brat, TW Violence. (I’m probably forgetting something)
A/N: Don’t ask me why this one is so long, I couldn’t stop writing for this one haha, although I feel like it could be better. I hope y’all enjoy it!
Prince Jackson was snobby, conceited, and arrogant.
Prince Jackson is brave, wise, and gentle.
He thought he was the best, and he only cared about himself.
But he humbled himself, and he is more caring towards his people now.
His mother was a very gentle woman, and she was able to keep the King from neglecting the Kingdom.
She wanted to teach Jackson how important it was to be kind and considerate.
Unfortunately, the Queen had died when Jackson was a child, leaving him to be raised by an egotisical man.
His father had spoiled him and imprinted a God-like complex in his mind.
He had made Jackson think that he was above everyone else, even their own people.
Jackson had grown up watching his father push around their servants and thought it was okay.
The King didn’t care for the Kingdom, even though there was a rising in crime.
The King let the Kingdom come to despair when the Queen died, for he did not care.
The King was obsessed with war and being the best, so Jackson was taught how to fence, handle a sword, spar, etc.
Jackson is very strong because of this; he can handle himself very well.
Fortunately, Jackson had never fought in a war, for others had managed to steer clear of his father.
The way Jackson was raised is something he is ashamed of, even if he is no longer the man he once was.
He changed a lot of his ways after getting his portrait painted by you.
Crime, poverty, and pain was something his Kingdom no longer had to suffer.
When you had been requested to paint a portrait for the Prince, you were nervous. You had always wondered what the Prince was like. Was he noble and sensitive? Or was he just like the King?
You had silently hoped it was not the latter, but to your displeasure, it was, you could tell he didn’t care about anyone except himself.
As you sit on a stool with a canvas in front of you, Prince Jackson sat proudly on a throne encrusted with jewels, you would’ve thought he was so dreamy...if he didn't have an annoyed look on his face.
“How much longer is this going to take?” he asks you, the insolent tone in his voice had you irritated. “Well, if you would have quit moving and just shut up, I would’ve been done by now.”
Jackson looked taken back by your words, it was clear no one had ever talked to him like that before. He squinted his eyes towards you as your paintbrush softly glided on the canvas, “Who do you think you are to talk to me like that?” he scoffed, “I am the Prince, and you will treat me with respect.”
You put the paintbrush down and stood up in a huff, “Respect, huh?” you begin while taking your art smock off, “You don’t even care, let alone respect your own people. Do you even understand what we all must go through while you live carefree up in that palace? No, you don’t, you’re just a spoiled brat who only cares about himself. Don’t you dare talk to me about respect, your Highness.”
You felt your blood boil as venom dripped from your words. You threw your smock over the stool and began walking towards the door, Jackson furrowed his eyebrows as he tried to process everything and quickly stood from the throne, “Where are you going?” he asks confused.
“I have been painting you for hours, I am hungry. You can either wait here for me or come back later,” you sighed.
Jackson followed you out the door but turned and started walking back to the palace.
The rest of the day your words replayed through Jackson’s mind, it distracted Jackson and made him mess up a few times while sparring. He felt guilty, no one had ever scolded him like that, he began questioning himself.
Was he truly so self-absorbed that he didn’t see how much their people were in need?
Why would his father tell him to not worry about the Kingdom?
He decided he needed to talk to you, so the next day he readied himself and started walking to your art studio, as he started walking up the few steps that lead to your door, he heard a noise coming from one of the alleys.
Curiosity got the best of him and he went to investigate, when he turned the corner, his eyes grew big. Some man had you cornered and was trying to rob you, “Come on, I know you have money, I saw the Prince leave your workshop yesterday, he must have paid you.”
“Please, I don’t want any trouble! Just let me leave!” you pleaded while slowly trying to move past him, you felt very intimidated by the man and knew that you were going to be beaten, if not killed, if you didn’t get out of there.
The man harshly grabbed your arm and slammed you against the wall, “You’re not going anywhere,” he growled and raised his fist.
You closed your eyes and braced yourself for the impact about to come but instead heard a grunt from him, you opened your eyes and see Prince Jackson fighting with the man, Jackson was dodging swings and skillfully landing his own, the man knew it was a losing fight, so he quickly took off.
Jackson wasn’t even panting, but his heart was definitely racing; along with yours. You stood there bewildered about the entire situation, “Are you okay?” he concerningly asks you.
You simply nod, “Thank you,” you softly let out.
“Can we talk?”
You agree and lead him into the Tavern you often go to, you ask the Tavern Keeper, Martha to bring out two orders of your usual and then sit at a table in the corner. Jackson looked tense; it was his first time in a place like this.
“What did you want to talk about?” you asked curiously, you could see something in his eyes but couldn’t make it out.
“I don’t know anything about what goes on in the Kingdom, my father had told me to not mind anything that happens to our people. Please, tell me what is going on, I need to know.”
You were taken back, he sounded sincere. He was no longer sitting proudly like he was the day before; and you could see what was in his eyes now, it was remorse.
“Well...as you saw before, crime is the biggest one, a lot of people have lost their home or their shop because they were robbed, trade caravans have stopped visiting here because they’re afraid, so we can’t even trade,” Jackson intensely listened as you explained, mentally taking notes of it. “Poverty is the second one, but I’m sure you can guess why. Everyone is in pain; people have died because they were too poor to afford food or medicine when they were sick,” you tell him with a heavy heart.
Jackson, who was clearly upset, grabbed your hand from across the table and held it in his own, his eyes locking with yours, “I promise you, I will do everything I can to make things right.”
Before you could respond, a servant had walked up with two plates, you pull your hand back and thank her as she places the plates down, then she quickly excuses herself to let you eat.
Jackson curiously looks at the food, he was so used to extravagant meals and wasn’t sure if he would like the food in front of him, “Just try one bite, if you don’t like it, I will gladly eat it,” you chuckle at the last bit.
He grabs his fork and takes a bite, he was delightfully surprised at how amazing the food was, it was enough for him to start devouring the meal, leaving his taste buds satisfied, “That was incredible, I’ve never had something so flavorful before!”
Martha walked over to you both and you smiled, “Hi Martha! How are things?” you greet her as you pull out a few coins for the meal. Her smile was sorrowful as she stopped you, “It’s on the house, consider it a ‘farewell’ gift,” she informs you, you could hear the pain in her voice, as well as Jackson.
“What do you mean?”
“I’m going to lose this place tomorrow because I can’t pay it off.”
You furrowed your brows, “But you told me the other day you were about to fully pay off this place?” you reminded her, not wanting to hear what she was about to say.
“I was, until someone broke in last night and stole all of my money. I can’t make it all back in a day, it took me months to save it all up. I have no choice but to go back to my parent’s farm,” she explained with her head hung low. You stood up and hugged your friend tightly, “I am going to miss you so much. I’ll visit you tomorrow before you leave.”
Suddenly, something hit the table with a small thud, you both look and see that Jackson had pulled out his coin pouch, “Will this be enough, or do you need more?” Jackson asked with a serious tone.
Martha realized who he was and stood there in shock, trying to find words before giving up and nodding. “Okay, wonderful! I would’ve hated to see my new favorite place to eat go so quickly,” he tells her with a smile.
Jackson took the throne as the rightful King very quickly and kept his word, crime vanished almost overnight, people had their homes and shops back, and trading caravans started visiting the Kingdom again.
Everything was as it should be.
Jackson had invited you to the castle to help him make decisions regarding the Kingdom, it wasn’t long until you both fell in love with each other. He loves you and always aims to be a better person because of you.
The portrait of Prince King Jackson hung in the great hall; showing a man who truly is the best.
#jackson wang imagine#jackson wang imagines#jackson wang headcanon#jackson wang headcanons#jackson wang scenarios#jackson wang scenario#got7 scenarios#got7 imagines#got7 scenario#got7 imagine#got7 headcanon#got7 headcanons#got7 au#got7 royal!au#got7 prince!au
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EPILOGUE
SUMMARY ― The three Kingdoms were puzzled with Aera’s disappearance while Aera finally returned back to earth as she continued her regular duties, but it seems her magic doesn’t stop in Wonderland, maybe.
CHARACTERS ― Gae Riana Aera, Saera Diamandis, Princess Aretha Anthia, Princess Ariana Aurelia, Neo Princes, Queen Aerina (The White Queen), Grandma Kim, Zen Alberto, Lim Jaebeom, Jackson Wang, Park Jinyoung
GENRE ― fantasy, got7!as!princes, got7!royalty, nct!prince, nct!royalty, nct!as!vampires, nct!as!wolves
WARNINGS/AUTHOR’S NOTE ― Sentimental. I’m sad. This is the end of Aera's 2nd Adventure in Her Wonderland!
WORDS ― 2965
Everyone, including Grandma Kim, Zen, Princess Anthia, Princess Aurelia, from Aerina royal household generals, the housemaids, the butler and the gardeners, gathered together as the Queen had an important announcement.
There were even journalists and media representatives who made themselves comfortable to capture the Queen’s words.
Aurelia looked around, noticing that someone was missing.
“Hey, Anthia. Where is―
Aurelia stopped midway, after meeting Anthia’s glossy eyes.
‘She’s gone.. I mean she returned back to earth.’
Aurelia heard Anthia’s voice in her head clearly. The older one didn’t need to know who the younger one mentioned.
That explains why the air has been heavy and the animal gardens seem down today. That’s what Aurelia feels.
'So that day was her saying goodbye..'
The young princess couldn’t say much. She could only give her older sister a tight hug, both knowing how each other would feel — to miss their other sister.
“Attention everyone.” Queen Aerina’s voice boomed slightly through the throne room. “I would like to informed regarding my 2nd born daughter, Princess Riana Aera, the wife of King Jaehyun.”
“My daughter, Riana Aera Morian was born in Wonderland, but she was raised on earth.” Queen Aerina paused. “So it was normal for her to feel like she belonged to both Wonderland and Earth itself.”
“Grandma Kim and I, and King Morian, along with the parents of King Jaehyun – King Ariston and Queen Rosabeth, have accepted that Princess Aera would eventually have to returned to back to her second home.”
There was a slight pause from Queen Aerina, as she turned towards the side to see the royal family – Grandma Kim and Zen, seeing them specifically Zen nodding, to support the Queen.
“Last night, we were informed that Princess Aera has returned back to earth—
Before Queen Aerina could finish her sentence, sounds of loud cries and sobs were already heard from the royal housemaids which caused the generals to shed tears too – hearing their deep cries.
“According to Grandma Kim, Princess Aera’s physical body has been left uncared for on earth and it could cause danger to her life. Returning back to earth does. not. mean she is dead nor. she wouldn’t come back to Wonderland.” Queen Aerina spoke slowly to clarify the misunderstandings that would be caused in the future.
“Princess Aera will return to Wonderland, but I, along with Grandma Kim and my other two daughters are not able to foresee the future, to see when Princess Aera will come back.”
Queen Aerina keeps on assuring the royal family household, telling them that their feelings are valid for being sad. The Queen could only tell them to keep Princess Aera in their prayers, to keep the princess safe and happy in the other universe.
“How are we supposed to say this to Violeta?” Aurelia mutters to herself as soon as they walk out of the throne room with Anthia beside her along with Zen behind them.
“Your highness, I believe the news would already be spread around by now.” Zen answered, earning nods from Anthia as she turned towards the butler.
“Zen, did you know that Aera was leaving?” Anthia turned towards him – seeing him shaking his head with a sad smile.
“....I heard it from King Morian… I didn’t have the chance to even say my farewells to her.” Zen whispered at the end, eyes went downcast as he remembered the old days he had spent time with Aera.
This caused him to let out a smile.
“..We’ll see her one day,” Anthia reassured the two of them, earning a side glance from Aurelia.
“..And how do you know that, my sister?”
Anthia looked away from the blonde one, smiling slightly as her gaze turned towards the open window – before turning towards the two individuals, gesturing to them to continue their day together.
“I just know it.”
“Princess Aera will return to Wonderland, but I, along with Grandma Kim and my other two daughters are not able to foresee the future, to see when Princess Aera will come back.”
The Neo Brothers’, specifically the Dream Boys and Wayv could only stare at the television with widened jaws. Most of them felt in awe from the sudden news.
All of them were aware that there would be an emergency announcement from Aerina’s Kingdom – for the first time that Queen Aerina would be addressing it instead of the royal representatives.
“I can’t believe the others are in different places when Princess Aera has returned to Earth.” Haechan commented as he lowered the voice down since it moved to a different topic.
“I can’t believe it.” Renjun whispered to himself, kind of not wanting to believe but the news had broken out.
Some of the Neo 127 brothers are in different parts of Wonderland by now, helping Jaehyun to sort out some last minute business meetings.
“Has she told anyone of you?” Ten voiced out, looking at the Dream boys. All of them shake their heads. Ten turned towards Kun with a slight frown, he was quite weirded out on her sudden disappearance.
“..Maybe she has her own reasons.” Kun added this time.
“..I heard Princess Aera had told Taeyong and Doyoung hyung about it.” Sungchan said and there were faces of disappointment from the others.
“Again,” Kun added, “..She might have her own reasons. I mean, we have to know that she has children now. Who knows she might have asked some help from the ones she told, that she had to leave.” Kun explained to the young ones.
“That made sense now..” Mark muttered, earning nods of agreement from Lucas and the other Dream Boys.
“Speaking of children…” Lucas trailed off, turning towards Chenle and Jisung for help, on how to rephrase the words respectfully.
Chenle decided to do the offer. “..How will Jaehyun hyung explain to his children about Princess Aera’s disappearance?”
“Not to mention that the princess.. well now queen.. is their mother.” Jisung added, earning sighs from the others.
Jeno and Jaemin could only look at each other, before turning towards the others who look like they are puzzled in this situation too.
“As what Queen Aerina had said,” Renjun paused, “We should keep Princess Aera’s name in our prayers, so that one day she would return to Wonderland safe and happily.”
Their short discussion had to end with the Neo royal housemaid calling them for their late breakfast.
Just as they turned to a corner, Ten was met with a weight on his leg and hearing a loud thud.
“Woah– Aeria!?! What’s with the rush?” Ten helped the little girl stand up. She is the 2nd born to Jaehyun and Aera. For a child, she looks too happy early in the morning.
“Uncle, I did it!” Aeria cheered happily, “I helped Papa with sending out a letter to Mama!”
Ten turned towards the others who looked bewildered as he was.
“What letter?” Kun questioned this time – then noticing Aeria’s face became paler as she tried to remember what it was.
“Oh..I…” The moment Aeria trailed off, Ten perfectly caught the little one on his arms – seeing her body somehow beginning to loosen up.
Hendery puts his palm on the girl’s forehead, his eyes widened twice to what he felt.
“She has a high fever.”
The older boys quickly get moving, which leaves the young ones to stay behind.
Jisung turned towards the others.
“...Wait, does that mean Aeria somehow went to Earth?!?!”
“Where is he!?!”
“I don’t know!”
“We have to hurry and tell him!”
Rushed footsteps were all over the hallways, trying to find the King.
But he was nowhere to be found, until they got information that the King was in the garden.
They quickly rushed their way, and indeed King Morian was in the garden. Surprisingly he was having morning tea.
“Your majesty!” Jaebeom quickly rushed towards the King, which kind of startled him at first. Jaebeom didn’t forget to greet the King first.
“Your majesty, I’m sorry to intrude but Princess Aera has―
King Morian let out a finger towards him, which sushed Jaebeom and coincidentally Jinyoung and Jackson had arrived too.
“I know, young one.” King Morian said softly, earning widened eyes from the three men.
“Y-you knew?” Jackson repeated, earning a chuckle from King Morian – telling the three men to have a seat with him.
“My assistant told me about a minute ago, before Jaebeom arrived. He was faster,” King Morian teased and Jaebeom could only look at the King apologetically.
“The three of you look sad.” King Morian gazed towards the three of them.
“Does it have to do with my daughter returning to Earth?” King Morian softly questioned them to which Jackson truthfully answered him.
“Now, now. You don’t have to be sad.” King Morian turned towards them. “..Instead, I think we should be thankful.” The King muttered, as he smiled to himself.
“Aera actually has two homes. One is here and the other is Earth.” King Morian smiled. “She can’t live with just one, Aera is destined to live that way.”
“Is there a way for her to just live in one way, your majesty?” Jinyoung politely asked, earning a playful smirk from King Morian.
“I see, you are being selfish.” King Morian teased, earning a sheepish look from Jinyoung himself and a teasing hit on his arm from Jackson.
“..Maybe.. But it requires great power.” King Morian’s tone turned serious.
“..It’s not me, neither Aerina and Grandma Kim had the ability to do that. Only a great being could unleash a power to separate themselves, or in this case erase themselves from one universe.”
Jaebeom frowns, slightly turning towards his two brothers who had the same answer too.
“It’s Aera herself.”
Children were giggling and screaming their hearts out, chasing the young woman in the open-garden right outside their cottage. Until a middle aged woman showed herself, causing the children to freeze.
“Why did you all….”
Aera looked towards where they were gazing at – brows raised in amusement on how her mother could just make them freeze with just her presence.
“Okay, everyone! Time to freshen up before continuing your lessons!” Saera clapped her hands, gesturing the kids to enter the cottage – at the same time hearing their little ‘aww’s and seeing their cute pouts showing up as they walked past Aera.
Once all the kids went in, Saera glanced towards Aera who looked exhausted but she looked cheery compared to other days. Actually, she looked livelier ever since they left the Jung residence.
“You look cheery,” Saera commented towards the young one, who was trying to catch her breath.
“Haven’t I always been cheery?” Aera answered with a little smile.
Saera shakes her head, chuckling slightly. “No, dear. You have never been this cheerful.” She paused, “..It’s been nearly a week. Ever since we got out of the Jung’s residence, you have been…”
Saera trailed off. She couldn’t say that Aera turned weird – but on a positive note.
Aera’ little smile slowly disappeared, as it turned into a slight frown.
Indeed it has been a week, and Aera couldn’t remember what exactly happened before the adventure she had in Wonderland. Yes, she remembered everything that happened in Wonderland.
She couldn’t exactly remember what happened before – she could remember after returning into the house that looked like a castle, that her mother and the butler were somehow exchanging words and they were led out of the house.
But at that moment, there was a strange feeling as soon as she stepped out of the house – her mother and the butler didn’t realise this but as they were talking, Aera felt like she was being watched.
Looking to where she sees, she saw a shadow on the second floor of a window.
As if someone was watching her. But she shook it off as they left the place.
“Come on,” Saera gestured to Aera to come in. “Help me cook for the kids.”
“Finally,” Aera closed the door of the last kids’ room.
She was in charge of their afternoon nap after their lunch – which Aera would sometimes have trouble doing previously, but now, it was as if she was a pro.
Reading one story would already make two to three kids in one room fall asleep.
Just as Aera was about to fully close the door, a memory suddenly passed by her.
‘Mama, you would be there when we need you, right?’
The child-like voice made Aera stand frozen, feeling her hands shake slightly that she closed her eyes to calm herself down.
Aera was surprised that the memory was still fresh to her – compared to her return now, her previous aftermath of her return in Wonderland ; she could remember that her memory started to slowly become foggy as she continued her days.
‘Is it because I became a mother that I still have the memory?’
She shook off her thoughts, walking down the hallway when her legs slowly stopped at its track. The reason why she stopped is because she felt a presence behind.
‘There is no way there’s someone there. The room is empty, it’s at the end and it’s my room.’
She didn’t dare to turn around.
‘Mother? Is that you?’
A familiar voice could be heard in Aera’s mind – a very familiar voice that she quickly turned around. Aera couldn’t help but gasp at the same time covering her mouth not to let out any shriek.
It was like in the movies, where magic was involved – there stood a bright silhouette of a kid, and she precisely looks like Aeria.
“Aeria?” Aera whispered, taking a step forward. A smile was formed on Aeria, the more Aera walked towards her.
“I don’t have much time, Mama!” She whispered, at the same time looking around. “I’m just a letter-girl here! I have been hearing Papa's thoughts and it seems this is what he wants to give you!”
It seems that Aeria isn’t fully aware that she isn’t in a human body or a human herself – Aeria let out her sparkling hands, which Aera guessed that she was holding a letter from the silhouette of her hands.
Aera grabbed the letter which slowly started to disappear.
“Oh no! I—
That’s when Aera realised that Aeria started to slowly disappear.
“Aeria! No..” Aera’s eyes started to well up with tears, at the same time kneeling down to her level.
Aeria’s hands that slowly started to vanish, cupped onto her mother’s wet cheeks.
“Mama… Don’t cry… We will see each other again..” Aeria caressed her mother’s cheeks, analysing her features one last time.
Aeria didn’t say anything, as she started to vanish with her sparkles that shaped like her silhouette started to slowly fall onto the wooden floor – leaving Aera all alone in the quiet hallways.
“Aera! Wake-up!”
“Gae Aera!”
The loud voice made her fall off from the sofa, hearing a loud thud and a loud groan from Aera herself. She snapped towards the owner of the voice while her hands were at her hurting back.
“What on― Why are you shouting, mother!?” Aera yelled slightly, at the same time looking around.
“I called you multiple times. You didn’t even budge!” Saera answered sheepishly, and Aera sighed frustratingly – her leaning back on the sofa.
‘So it is all just a dream, seeing Aeria..’
Saera shakes her head, “There is a bed for a reason, Aera.” She paused, “Sleep upstairs if you are tired,” She continued before leaving Aera alone.
Aera can’t help but start to tear up as she remembers the dream.
Where she sees her 2nd daughter.
‘There’s no way she could enter here. It’s impossible.’
Just as Aera was about to stand up, the doorbell of her house rang.
“You have mail!”
Aera wordlessly went towards the door, seeing a letter being slid down the door.
“Must be from that stupid land―
Her words were trailed off when she saw an unknown address.
“Who is it from Aera?” Saera walked towards the girl who was staring at the written address. Aera turned towards her mother confusingly.
“Do you know whose address is this, mother?” Aera showed the letter towards her. Saera shook her head firmly.
What’s interesting is that the handwriting of the owner is very traditional.
“No. I don’t think so. Open it! See who it’s from.” Saera hurried Aera, which Aera followed suit.
There were two papers in it, one that looks like a letter and the other is a document.
Love, Infinity and Beyond.
JJY
Aera frowned as she looked at the initials – she couldn’t believe it.
She wasn't sure if Earth and Wonderland are connected.
All she knows is that they are two different universe.
Aera was staring at the letter for too long that Saera was curioused at the other paper. As soon as she saw it clearly, there was a loud gasp from her mother.
“A-Aera! Look!” Saera showed her a document, which revealed to be a document receipt of a bill. Aera’s eyes landed on the last sentence of the paper and a signature.
This letter serves as evidence that an anonymous entity paid all orphanage expenses in full.
This letter is further evidence that Ms. Gae Riana Aera now owns the orphanage.
All rights will officially be turned to her.
“We’re debt free, Aera!” Saera cheered happily, at the same she was shocked to know someone had done this for them.
Aera didn't even listen to what her mother was rambling about, but all she knows is that both of them might have the same question.
Who on earth paid them?
While Saera was hugging Aera tightly in happiness, Aera could only look at the handwriting with a small smile – she could only think of one person in the other universe.
‘Thank you, Yoonoh. I’ll always remember you. ’
we have come to the end of Her Wonderland, Her 2nd Adventure.
;)
𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫
𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭
her wonderland : for infinity [the 3rd adventure]
#nct prince#nct royal au#nct prince au#nct au#nct scenarios#nct imagines#got7 au#nct royal#got7 prince au#nct dream royal au#wayv royal au#latest update !#nct dream x reader#got7 x reader#nct x reader
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Situation 11& Sentence 37 with Mark Yuen Tuan x Reader please ❤️
11 - Soulmates AU
37- “You’re stuck with me, like it or not.”
Soulmate AU where you have a bar on yourwrist that measures the danger your soulmate is in.
You wiped the blood off of yoursword and winced as you felt a sting in your arm. You hadn’t even noticed thecut right above your elbow until after the fighting was over.
It had been a tough battle forboth sides, losses racking up as both countries refused to back down. This onlymade things more intense on the battlefield.
Ultimately, the rival countryhad thrown up its white flag in surrender, but this had been one of the hardestfights you had ever fought. There were multiple times where other knights hadto intervene to help you out. Of course, you returned the favor, but beingunable to defeat the opponents on your own was saying something.
This war was far from over.
“Hey, you okay?” Jackson asked.You looked up at the captain of the Knights and gave him a wry smile.
“More or less…just this cut,nothing major,” you said, nodding to your arm. Jackson glanced at it and thennodded, telling you to head over to the medicinal tent for stitches if it wasdeep enough. You thanked him and he took his leave, cape flowing behind him.
You tore off some fabric fromyour shirt and began to wrap your arm. As you did, you glanced down at yourwrist and noticed that there was the number 3 written. You frowned and began toworry. Why was his number so high? Had he gotten sick again? Was he okay?
You shook your thoughts,reminding yourself that there was nothing you could do about it when you wereaway from the palace, and limped over to the medicinal tent. You remembered yourtraining and tried to focus on getting back to palace in one piece.
***
Once you were back within the citywalls, you wasted no time in taking the back roads to the main palace. You knewthat the army would be presented to the royal family the next day, but youcouldn’t wait that long. You followed the winding paths of alleyways, waving atfamiliar faces as you hurried along.
When you got to the palace, yousnuck into through the back door. You nodded at the guard who let you in andgave him a sheepish smile with a small thank you. He nodded with a knowing lookand told you that the prince was resting in his room.
You snuck through the halls andeventually came to Mark’s room. You tapped out a small rhythm that you and the princecame up with, and only had to wait a small moment before the door flung open.
“My prince, I – ” you were cutoff by Mark throwing his arms around you and squeezing you tight. You feltyourself crushed in his embrace and stifled a chuckle as you wondered whether hiswrist was showing a 2 from how tightly he was hugging you.
You felt his warmth and closedyour eyes briefly, not wanting him to let go. It felt as though you were in hisembrace for hours, but it couldn’t have been more than a few moments. When hefinally let you go, you took a short breath and opened your eyes.
“Thank god you’re here!” Mark exclaimedas he pulled away from you. He kept his hand tightly around your own as he shutthe door and then tuned to you. “Do you have any idea how worried I was?” he added,ushering you to the bed and then sitting down beside you.
You took in his appearance as heheld both of your hands and saw his eyes wide with worry. They were slightlyred and you wondered if he had been crying. His dirty blonde hair was disheveledand his lips were a brighter shade of red. He had been biting them again.
“Mark…” you trailed off,bringing a finger up to his chin and cupping his face in your hand.
“For the past few days all I’veseen is this number go from 4 to 5. 5! I’ve never seen it at a 5 before! Y/N,what happened out there?” Mark shouted. You heard no malice in his voice, butinstead deep concern and fear. You shook your head and squeezed his hand.
“It was just a bad battle, that’sall,” you whispered, looking deeply into his eyes. You saw worry there and disbelief,so you gently brought his hand to your lips, kissing them softly. “Hey, I’mhere. I’m okay. We’re okay.”
“I hate being here. I should beout there fighting to protect everyone,” Mark said, his voice shaking. Theprince closed his eyes and you felt a tingle in your wrist, glancing at itquickly to see it go back to 1. You let out a small breath and leaned yourforehead against his.
“I know, and I’m sorry,” you stated,barely above a whisper. “But it’s safer for you to be here in the city. Thepeople need you and if anything were to happen…” you didn’t finish thesentence. You didn’t need to.
There was a small moment ofpause before you chuckled. “I guess this means you’restuck with me, like it or not.”
Mark gave you a small, sad smileas he pulled you towards him, bringing his lips to your own. You let thetenderness flow through you and reveled in the safety you felt in his arms.
“It’s terrifying. But I’llalways like it, Y/N,” he stated, pulling you in once more.
#royal!au#soulmate!au#mark#mark tuan#drabble#drabbles#drabble game#two part drabble game#got7 drabbles#writings#scenarios#fics
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the invitation, his time
➳ Prince Mark has started to race against time as soon as the princess is being offered a hand in marriage with another princes.
characters ➵ Lee Aera, Mark Tuan
warnings ➵ none.
“Thank you, Princess Aera.” The old woman hurriedly bowed towards her but she was quick to stop her.
“It’s okay.. Please take care of your body. I’ll inform the general’s about your shop’s problem and assistance would be sent to you financially.
For the meantime, please take care of your health.” advised the princess, grabbing her usual travel medical bag with her.
The princess gave a small smile towards the old woman before exiting the small house.
“This is the last house, your highness.” The princess’s butler said as he looked up from the map.
“Alright, let’s go back to the palace then,” the princess sighed in relief as she took out her usual stethoscope that has been hanging around her neck for the whole day.
The princess who is also a royal doctor to the royal household of Tuan has been going around the kingdom, treating different people as sick citizens has been increasing causing a ruckus.
The princess herself voluntarily wanted to do this job, with the help of some of the generals helping to carry supplies to give to the citizens - and the help of her own kingdom, supplying the medicines since Aera’s kingdom is a kingdom that is filled with different kinds of medicines.
The princess was really happy to lend a helping hand but there is one particular person who isn’t too happy - it’s not that he didn’t want the princess to help, but he was just worried about the princess’s well-being.
Aera is still a princess after-all.
That would be Prince Mark as he remembered arguing with the generals, even with his own parents.
Everyone was so surprised when the prince started his reasoning.
No one has ever heard Prince Mark talk during meetings - usually he would only listen and do as he told.
He is a noble gentleman, which is why everyone loves him although he doesn’t say much which made the princess wonder more about what is inside the prince’s head.
“Your highness!” A familiar voice yelled as the princess and the butler were about to step foot into the royal palace, making the princess turn towards the voice to see a messenger from her own kingdom.
“Ji!” the princess waved beamly as she ran towards him with a hug - earning a slight shriek from the young man.
The royal household from her own kingdom described the youngest princess to be a stuck-up, rude and unappreciative kind of princess which made them dislike her.
Ever since living and working in the Tuan Kingdom, there has been a major change of the princess.
She was completely the opposite when she stayed in her own kingdom.
Being the royal doctor, she is someone who has lots of compassion and empathy. Most of all, the way she communicates with people has changed as she follows the rules of being one of the royalties.
But she still didn’t like how the royal household goes - with all that arranged marriage and wearing ridiculous big dresses.
The princess lets go of the messenger after hearing an awkward cough from the butler - causing her to look at the butler sheepishly. She then let the butler go, afraid that the messenger would be uncomfortable since it’s between the princess and her on kingdom’s news.
“It’s rare for you to come at this time, Ji. Did something happen?” the princess questioned as she watched the young man taking out a very familiar looking envelope.
“Not again,” groaned the princess as she lightly stomped her foot. She has been getting lots of invitations of marriage from different princes and Aera would instantly decline their offer - with the help of her family to reject with giving different sort of believable reasons.
Aera was actually trying to find ways to stop getting herself from being the centre of attention - which is the arranged marriage.
She thought moving to the Tuan kingdom would make them forget about her presence but instead it was the opposite.
“No, your highness. Not this time,” Ji muttered as he couldn’t meet the princess’s eyes as everyone in her kingdom knew what has been the talk of the town.
Aera frowns to see Ji’s expression as she slowly takes the card from him - her eyes still onto Ji as her fingers begin to open the envelope, taking out a small written card.
Dear Princess Aera,
This is your mother writing to you personally. We have spoken many times regarding your marriage as you are the last princess. The 2nd last masquerade will be held in 5 days. Aera, you have to find someone before princes’ makes a waiting line to be with you. We know you hate arranged marriages so are giving you a chance to find one. So far, Prince Jaeho is waiting for your acceptance regarding the marriage. Your father and I are trying our best to make an excuse on your behalf. We will see you on the day of the event.
Your sincerely,
The Queen of Lee Kingdom
“Prince Jaeho? I don’t even know him,” muttered Aera as she frowns, trying to remember every prince she has met.
She has met every single prince from different kingdoms back when she attended regular tea sessions with her mother and sister.
Most of the time, Aera would distract herself with the cupcakes while trying to make her older sister giggle and chuckle - trying to get the older one to be in trouble since her older sister is the first born and she would most likely to be the next ruler of the kingdom.
“I don’t think he fits to be with you, your highness,” Ji commented as his head hung low - afraid to say his reasoning.
“Not that I wanted to be with him but why not?” questioned Aera as she raised an eyebrow, her eyes then moved towards the card - analyzing every sentences, not knowing there was a certain royalty that made Ji to lower his gaze.
“Ji, why—
“That’s because he is known to be a player. How do I say this in a nice way? He throws away girls like toys,” A voice made Aera to widen her eyes, slightly looking to the side to see Prince Mark standing beside her with both of his hands placing his back.
Aera frowned slightly as she turned towards Ji.
“Is that true, Ji?”
“It is true, your highness. What Prince Mark had said is just half of it. There is more about Prince Jaeho but it would be inappropriate for you to hear more,” Ji answered and Aera completely knows what the young man was talking about.
She isn’t considered innocent as what people think about the youngest.
“If that’s the case, tell mother and father if they allow his hand of marriage to me, I will and surely, and I won’t hesitate to run away from my own kingdom. I mean it this time.” muttered Aera as her eyes widened slightly, still reading the card.
“Marriage? What marriage?” Prince Mark repeated as his eyes turned towards the red card.
Before his mind works, his fingers were fast enough to snatch away the card on the princess’s hands.
His eyes move quickly - not caring the messenger of the Lee Kingdom and the princess’s nervous looks as they see the prince’s expression turned sour and just pure mad.
Aera could see his ears turned red.
Prince Mark slowly looked towards Aera with a cold expression, quietly handing the card towards her.
The princess silently took the card and as soon as it was on her hands, Prince Mark turned his heel back - walking away from the 2.
Even from the back, they could tell the prince wasn’t too happy.
He isn’t too happy - Prince Mark was really really mad, pissed and just annoyed.
To sum it up, he was in rage.
Maybe because he was too shy to even reveal his own true thoughts to the princess.
There were lots of times when he wanted to approach the princess but he didn’t have the courage and the prince didn’t have the time since he was busy with his royal duties.
He knew he was running out of time.
Prince Mark has started to race against time, and in this moment, he would surely do something to prevent the princess from going to the wrong heart of an evil prince before it’s too late.
That’s when Prince Mark knew that he had fallen for Princess Aera deeply.
➳ masterlist
#got7 royal#got7 royal scenarios#got7 royal imagines#got7 royal au#got7 imagines#got7 scenarios#got7 mark#got7 mark scenarios#got7 mark imagines#mark tuan
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Royal Blue Yugyeom💙 -
#got7#kpop#kim yugyeom#yugyeom#got7 yugyeom#got7 scenarios#got7 reactions#got7 smut#got7 fluff#got7 kpop#got7 yugyeom smut#got7 yugyeom fluff#got7 reaction#royal#royal blue#blue#moodboard#blue moodboard#aesthetic#blue aesthetic#royal blue aesthetic#young-sook
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In chains of the Crown
The cast:
Yan An (Pentagon) as Prince, later King Yan An
Mark Tuan (Got7) as King Mark (also mentioned as Tuan Yien)
Cheng Xiao (WJSN) as the female lead
Setting: historical au, royal au
Genre: romance, angst
Warnings: violence, blood, minor character deaths, implied mature themes
Summary: Under the weight of the crown, will you break or will you bend?
(Inspired by: "Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown" - Henry IV by William Shakespeare)
Word count: 14.5k
Notes: takes place in China, during the sixteen kingdoms’ times but has nothing to do with the actual history. it’s basically scenes following each other with time gaps between them because i imagine this whole thing as a historical kdrama, #sorrynotsorry. Also, long live Chinese/Taiwainese idols, they deserve more love.
I hope you love it, my dearest @restlessmaknae! Wish you the happiest B-day!♥
There is a courtesan house deep in the forest behind the mountains of Jianfeng. It’s hidden from common eye and only exceptional people know about its existence. The place is a safe haven for girls who were left alone after the war because their own families who sold them for money or rather because they became orphans. The place is an institute as well. The inhabitants are taught vital things about the cruel world outside. They are trained to be the centre of attention: to be unearthly beautiful and talented in various fields. They are still slaves in the eyes of the society but once bought they are on a higher level. They worth plenty of gold because they ought to entertain, pleasure and practice all kind of arts: music, dance, poetry.
But unlike any other courtesan training institute, this one teaches the art of killing as well.
“Don’t worry, your Highness, she’s our best. She will take the Crown Prince’s life without a problem when the time comes,” the owner of the house claims in a loud voice, proudly. His tone is honeyed while he tries to sweet talk their newest potential client into buying their services or even better, one of the girls.
One of the courtesans of blossoming age sits in her room, listening to the conversation that’s going on in the hallways in front of her closed door. Maybe it’s on purpose as if the owner wanted her to hear it. The unique beauty with her golden locks blinks towards the dull voices, unfazed. The master of the institute has wanted to give her away ever since she came of age so it’s nothing new. But she’s still here because the price he set on her is too high, even for such a talented and gorgeous virgin. So the girl stays still and silent even though the polite form of address and the Prince’s mention piques her curiosity. Not many royals dare to set their foot into a courtesan house publicly, much less to talk about killing a prince. What Crown Prince anyway? The royal family only has the King left.
“I want to see her,” a deeper, thicker voice speaks up and the young courtesan looks up from her book when the lock of her door opens with a click.
Two tall men figure steps into her simple room. It mirrors the other courtesans’ small chamber. It has nothing more than a bed, a candle, an ink container and some books. The few dress she actually has hang in a wooden wardrobe. For work or when they have performances she gets expensive clothes to wear but just for then. She doesn’t have an income, all the money people pay for her services as a ballad singer, musician or story teller goes straight to the courtesan house’s owner because that’s how he keeps track of the costs her training caused and how much is left until she can set herself free.
The peculiar golden haired girl isn’t ashamed of the little she has but when she recognizes the King’s notorious uncle in her visitor, the colour of her rosy cheeks drains.
“Bow before His Royal Highness!” the owner orders and she does as he says. She always does as she’s told.
She sinks onto her knees, not caring about worsening the condition of her already strained dress and bows until her forehead touches the ground. It’s common courtesy in times like this, symbolizing that the slaves can never be good enough to be on one level with them. They can’t even touch their toes.
“How old is she?” she hears the royal ask about her and she gulps, closing her eyes, fingers digging into the fabric of her skirt. She’s scared for a reason because everyone heard the gossips about the older man. He had experience with women, a lot actually and most of them included various things that weren’t for eyes of an innocent girl. What happens if he really buys her? Would he use her, hurt her and force her to kill the Crown Prince so the throne would be his heritage after all?
“Turned eighteen not long ago,” the owner answers plainly, fully aware that this is well past the age virgins are usually sold.
“Perfect. She even has the same hair colour as the King,” the royal man claims and the girl in question furrows her brows. She doesn’t understand why this detail is important enough to point out. Commoners usually don’t even know about the late king’s son’s appearance. “What do they call you, slave?”
“The Nightingale, your Highness,” she lifts her head up because being finally directly addressed allows her to do that but she keeps her gaze fixed on the floor. The name they gave her tastes sour on her tongue no matter how long she has it. She knows the meaning behind it, the bird’s beautiful song that can almost only be heard at night even if it sings during daylight, too. Does she dare to hope to be different? To be heard whenever she wants?
“How fitting,” the man clicks his tongue in a satisfied fashion and steps back, away from the slave but he still talks to her when he continues: “From this moment on, you are Cheng Xiao, Princess of the Tuan Kingdom.”
The name rings familiar in every Chinese person’s ear, recalling stories of the rebellion against the Tuan court twelve years ago. The princess was only six years old when displeased commoners attacked the palace shedding noble blood on the white marble. The Queen entrusted a maiden to help the child escape the kingdom, to raise her far away from the intrigues so she can come back when she reaches adulthood. People have been hoping for her to come home and fulfil the promise her parents made: marry the Crown Prince of Yan dynasty, end the war and create a Great United China again. But as years passed, there were no news about the youngest jewel of Tuan dynasty and the tension between the two kingdoms was worse than ever. Rumour has it that she was killed immediately during the escape. Others claim that the maiden sold her for gold. It’s just like a shot in the dark, nobody has facts, nobody knows the truth.
“The… the lost princess?” the courtesan croaks out taken aback by hearing this name and she recklessly commits the fatal crime of looking a royal straight into the eyes. Yet, the late king’s brother doesn’t seem to care, he just smirks as he stares back openly.
“Yes, we will make everybody believe you are her so you can marry in her place. If you play your part well and do as I say, you’ll live in riches for all your life and you don’t have to be a slave anymore,” he promises light-heartedly, offering her the whole wide world on a silver plate as she nervously sucks in a breathe. She’s waiting for the ‘but’ in dreadful anticipation. There’s always a ‘but’ part because nothing’s free these days and she isn’t mistaken. “If you don’t, I will personally make sure to take your pretty head.”
The Nightingale gulps, she knows she can’t afford to fail now. If they get caught by anybody, she can end up dead easily but she doesn’t have a choice, she never does. This deal at least can make it worth it. If she can become a Cheng Xiao nobody doubts. She smiles slyly at the thought, confidently. She isn’t their best for nothing after all.
She is given two days to prepare: to pack everything she needs and to transform into somebody who can be mistaken to be a princess. Since her mission is a secret and nobody should know about it, she does everything alone. Her long, wavy golden looks already bear resemblance to the rare blondeness that runs in the Tuan family but she cuts her fringe to look similar to the late Queen who died during the attacks a decade ago. She powders the scar on her wrist and wears the dresses the rich client sent her. Each bodice, dress and cape is made of expensive silk, the purest pearls brought from the deepest part of the oceans human can reach and decorated by gold that worth more than the courtesan house with everything in it. Maybe it’s the clothes or the gossip that started not long ago about the lost princess but everybody gapes at her in awe as she steps into the carriage sent for her. Even her fellow courtesan friends believe that she’s the princess miraculously found.
“First, we are going to see the King,” her buyer declares as they approach the royal palace in Xianyang. “You don’t say a word until you’re asked. And you absolutely cannot speak about the murder we plan.”
Tuan Yien is a kind-hearted and wise king despite being only twenty-four years old. He has gotten sick with weak heart condition since the wars between the sixteen kingdoms started and the search expeditions for her sister proved to be nothing but waste of time and money. It hasn’t even crossed the courtesan’s mind that he has anything to do with the evil plan.
The plan that, if carried out well, is worse than being stabbed into the back. Because the uncle doesn’t want her to marry the other kingdom’s Crown Prince, the soon-to-be-king, just to make allies but he also wants to poison him not long after his coronation so the Tuan King and the ‘Princess’ can unite the two biggest kingdoms of China.
So it’s hard, standing in front of the King and lying to him by not saying anything. But she’s selfish enough to not want to die.
“Is she the one?” the newly-crowned young king asks stepping down from his high podium, walking closer as the thumps of his steps echo in the throne room. The Nightingale knows where she belongs in from of the monarch and she doesn’t look into his eyes even if she should act like they are siblings. No, the client would definitely not approve that bold move.
“Yes, Yien, isn’t it marvelous? Even I would believe she’s your sister if I didn’t know better,” the man’s suggestive tone sends chills down the girl’s spine. Talking about the lost princess like this? How dares he?
King Mark, who is only called by his birth name by his closest relatives and allies, doesn’t say a word. He wordlessly observes the girl brought in front of him. Someone who has the same blonde hair and fair skin the rightful princess bore when she was only six and taken away from the royal family. He wishes he would remember her better but sometimes he’s even afraid of forgetting his own parents’ faces. Yet, there’s something about this girl, maybe the way she stands tall or the golden powder is hinted over her lashes but she’s nothing like the innocent little sister that lives in his memories. However, he doesn’t voice it out loud. At least, not with several people watching their every move.
“Can you leave us alone, uncle?” he asks politely, yet there’s firmness in his tone and it’s obvious that he doesn’t take no as an answer.
“As you wish,” the older bows slightly and then leaves with a smirk hiding his offended expression.
“You, too!” the king orders his soldiers authoritatively, slightly implying that questions asked aren’t appreciated. When even the last man leaves, there’s only the two of them left. But they can never be truly alone, in the palace even the walls have ears, after all. They cannot behave around each other like they used to. Not yet.
“It’s been a long time, your Majesty,” the girl bows again with a shy smile, testing out the new name, searching for his gaze.
The skinny boy she once knew has grown up well since they last met. He was merely a teenager then but now he’s a man, leading a country, more handsome and confident than ever. She isn’t sure how she should act around him: a slave like she is legitimately or an old acquaintance?
“It has. You have gotten pretty.”
Mark’s sudden compliment makes the girl blush furiously. It’s been a time since anyone said something like this to her. And coming from the king of House Tuan, it makes it even more special. “Thank you.”
The young man takes a deep breath as he doesn’t take his eyes off of the girl as if he has been seeing a daydream and she could disappear in a blink.
“Look I know uncle plots something but if you don’t want to…”
“It’s okay,” the Nightingale does the unforgivable and cuts off the monarch. He, on the other hand, doesn’t seem to mind, he’s rather interested in what she has to say. He hangs on every word that rolls off her tongue. “I just have to marry the Crown Prince. It’s the least I can do for peace.”
There are way worse ways than marrying a prince who will be a king soon. She would have settled for worse so she’s grateful. Even if it means she would have to kill to take what hers: freedom. In times like this murder is everyday occurrence, only the reasons vary: fear, anger or greed? People have them all and sometimes they act on instinct. If they don’t die in the war, they will be stabbed in the back. They live in cruel decades and harsh times have hardened the heart like steel of those who want to stay alive.
The courtesan gulps, thinking back of her training, every step and movement of defence and attack. But she doesn’t move when the King steps into her personal space and touches her wrist lightly.
“Do you still have it?” he wonders thumb sliding across the small scar that burnt permanently in her skin. She sucks in a breathe.
“It only fades with time but doesn’t disappear.”
Just like memories. It crosses both of their minds but they don’t say it out loud. There’s no need. The I’ve missed yous are lingering in the air. The older boy clears his throat as he steps back. His voice is formal again when he speaks up.
“I hope I can see you soon.”
The cold tone makes the girl shiver but she has to play her part well.
“We will meet at the wedding, your Majesty,” she promises, yet, it feels like goodbye and those always taste bitter. Maybe that’s why both of them prolong the last moments.
Something insecure crosses the man’s face and he’s biting his lower lip nervously. A bad habit he seems unable to grow out of.
“Xiao... Should I call you that?” His voice is significantly warmer and gentler than earlier when he forms the vowels and consonant of his sister’s name.
“It would make me delighted, Yien,” the girl smiles brightly, eyes sparkled and lies don’t sour her words. She should get used to it anyway.
According to the tradition, the bride should be carried in a sedan from her family’s house to the future husband’s. Since the distance between the two royal palaces has grown too wide, the journey takes days. Until then a messenger notifies the Yan prince that they found the princess, the one he was engaged with at an early age. Since the agreement is already made, set by the late Kings, there’s not much formality left. The wedding day can happen anytime soon.
Cheng Xiao is grateful because at least she gets to meet the groom before the ceremony. It doesn’t make her less nervous though. So when she steps out of the sedan and her gaze slides through the glamourous palace, she’s holding her breath in anticipation. And then, a boy, merely a man comes down the stairs walking over to her. First, she mistakenly thinks he’s only a servant since royals rarely do such things as greeting the arrived guests in person. However, he wears a traditional black attire with a golden dragon on it, the Yan’s symbol for their Crown Prince.
“Princess Cheng Xiao, I’m glad to have you here. Finally,” the prince bows a little and the girl does the same without saying anything. She’s still astonished by the man she should marry.
He is much younger than she’s expected him to be: an old crackled prince with dozens of wife already. Somebody ruthless and evil enough to make the kingdom starve and force every last capable man to die for him. Yet, Yan An looks like a kid with too heavy shoulders and too much responsibility on them. The sparkles in his youthful eyes are fading but with his delicate features as smooth as silk, sleek hair coal black like moonless nights and genuine smile that holds wonders, he’s still as handsome as the gossips whisper.
“The pleasure is all mine, Your Highness,” the girl bows down deeply, gripping on the edges of her breathtakingly pearl white dress.
“You must be hungry after such a long journey. You should join me on dining. Of course, we provide food for your men, too,” the prince hurries to ensure her about his hospitality.
The princess nods in gratitude and orders the soldiers who accompanied her to take a rest. She’s not afraid at all to stay alone with the Crown Prince.
He leads her farther into the gorgeous monument of building among massive towers and bright blue lakes and pastel green gardens until they reach a decorated common place with a large table and two settings. It looks like nobody else will dine with them and Cheng Xiao comes to know of the reason by the whispering maidens: there’s no other royalty in the palace, just them since his younger brother is down the southern front line and the prince has not yet married. The thought of being the first one scares her a little because then there would be nobody to hind behind, nobody to turn to with questions. On the other hand, it’s a soothing thought that probably he has never been with a woman either. Maybe the plan will be already over by the time he dares to lay a finger on her.
The dinner is quiet even though the prince is trying to broach a conversation relentlessly. He’s nothing but polite and understanding, kind and gentle, someone who would make a great king one day but maybe it’s all an act. So she stays silent.
After they are well-fed, they ought to take different paths, the new guest should explore her suite, change her travelling clothes and prepare for the night-time. But Yan An can’t seem to let her slip away without knowing:
“Are you really the princess?” he asks bluntly, chewing on the bitter taste of suspicion.
He has every right to doubt her even though it’s a dangerous thing to accuse a royal with lying. But special events require special approach. Isn’t it strange that after all these years, the princess was suddenly found now, when he’s supposed to take the throne after his father’s unexpected death. But he isn’t harsh or rude about the question and he bashfully looks away as he apologizes. “I’m sorry, I heard you were kidnapped and kept in a courtesan house. You probably still haven’t gotten over the fact that they freed you and now they practically sold you just to strengthen our allies. I understand if you hate me.”
The girl’s eyes widen in surprise. She has never expected him to genuinely care for her, about what the princess supposedly went through. She has learnt that people only care if they can use you.
So she says “No.” firmly and with all honesty.
She can’t hate somebody who seems so observant yet so naively trusting that he welcomes her in the heart of his kingdom not going back on the late Kings’ promise and not questioning the Tuans’ intentions.
“Pardon?” he looks up at her again, confused with creased forehead while his eyes bright up that she finally spoke up.
“No, your Highness, I don’t hate you,” she repeats and boldly looks straight into his almond eyes. “I feel sorry for you.”
The young prince doesn’t understand what it means. He doesn’t even suspect that she will stab him in the back or poison him the first chance she gets. The poor boy has no idea how it’s going to end for him. That the Nightingale will kill the prince once he carries the heavy weight of the crown on his head. By that time, as his first wife, the queen, it makes her kill the king.
They are bloody and dark times. The Great Chinese Empire on verge of falling apart. Splitting into multiple little kingdoms out of which only two had real power: the Tuan and the Yan dynasty. The two of them are having wars without end, without break, without sparing lives. When the Tuan king died a few years ago, the Yan king wanted to take advantage of the foolishly young new monarch and take over the country. Without a fair deal, King Mark refused and a new war started.
The Yan kingdom has the money but no real military force that could devour countries. The Tuans’ people on the other hand have been nothing but great soldiers without enough supplies. Both parties were struggling yet neither of them stopped this insane and meaningless battling. It was the matter of pride, it still is. So when Yan An’s father died in an accident (or who knows?), he tried to make reasonable choices, sign the peace but even his younger brother, the general thought that even without fighting, they can win if they wait until the other army weakens enough. The counsellors all supported the idea and Yan An as a new and inexperienced ruler had no say in it. He could only watch in silence as his people died.
So when he heard that the Tuans found the lost princess and they are willing to renew the marriage contract, he took the chance immediately. Because it meant the end of the war, finally the peace he yearned so much. Even if he thought it was merely a desperate attempt of the enemy to save their own people from dying of hunger, he didn’t care. Even if the princess wasn’t the real one. They just needed to become allies so together they can become the greatest kingdoms without putting a sword to each other’s neck.
They are in the middle of having breakfast when they get the news that the fights stopped at the fronts and General Sicheng is heading back to the palace. Since the coronation and the wedding both has to wait until him, the younger prince comes back, the royal court is waiting. Some think that only him who was born by the late Queen is the rightful heir of the throne while the oldest son, a bastard born out of wedlock shouldn’t claim the crown. A few counsellor hopes they can convince him to turn against his brother and lead the kingdom to victory in the Great War.
Yan An knows this, he is aware that even his people doubt his place on the throne but this is responsibility, his burden to bear. A promise he made to his father on his deathbed: he will protect his brother, everyone's favourite prince and he will let him form his own destiny instead of driving him into becoming a king too soon.
A week later, a group of soldiers arrive greeted by flowers and clapping commoners who think this means the end of the fights. Perhaps they are right or this is just a sweet delusion they cannot escape.
"Your Highness, we have heard the wonderful news. Will you really marry our enemy’s sister? Congratulations!" the second in command chimes ironically but he earns a sharp glance from the general for his disrespect.
“They are not our enemies. We merely fight over a misunderstanding. There shall be peace once they comprehend that they are wrong,” Sicheng says softly, his tone is much lighter than you’d expect from a soldier. He seems delicate and fragile, yet he’s mastered martial arts since young age to the point he can blindfoldedly defeat his master. His strategy skills are excellent and he cares for his people so he’s a perfect general just like his father has always wanted him to be.
“Brother,” he bows in front of the Crown Prince and the other man follows as Yan An acknowledges their presence in the throne room.
“How was your journey, General?” he asks politely, formally like he should no matter how much it pains him to greet his younger brother so coldly after he hasn’t seen him for so long.
“Great, thank you. How is your fiancée? Are you treating her right?”
The older boy smiles. So typically Sicheng, always worrying about the ladies. Especially, since this one will save him from having to rule. The younger has never wanted the throne and the crown to himself. His brother has always known this but being born like they did, counsellors tend to choose sides: favouring either the older but bastard son or the true-blooded but younger prince.
“She hasn’t complained yet. You can see her at lunch.” Yan An promises, his smile faltering a little as he thinks about the princess who walks the hallways pridefully and alone, not caring about dangers at all. Her quiet shyness during their meals also comes to his mind. She rarely speaks up but when she does all the attention is on her. She’s smart, she’s good at board games but doesn’t want to win. During all the time he was watching her closely, the prince has come to the conclusion that she’s watching him too. The first words they have exchanged still echo in his ears: I feel sorry for you.
“I can’t wait to meet my soon-to-be sister-in-law, our future Queen. I heard the rumours about her. They say she’s more beautiful than all the stars of the sky.”
Yan An takes a deep breath as he recalls the princess’ appearance, her fluttering lashes, the black holes of her almond eyes, those rosy cheeks and pretty, shiny lips along with the thick blonde locks framing her heart-shaped, lovely face. She can most definitely be compared with the wonders of the celestial sphere.
“She is,” he agrees and wouldn’t dare to take his words back even when Sicheng uses this against him not much later.
“Princess Xiao, you are just as beautiful as my dear brother said,” he coos as he kisses her hand when they finally get to meet. The Crown Prince catches himself blushing when the girl’s curious, dark eyes wander to his face.
The coronation along with the wedding is held on the feast of the God of harvest. The palace is dressed in the colours of celebration: red and gold. Dragon patterns all around and the double xi character for happiness and richness. Chinese people are deeply religious people in the age of wars and death, afterlife is just as important as their life here so to hope for a better era, a great dynasty, they have to make sacrifices of all kinds in front of the statue of the gods on the marketplace. The golden temple behind them is full of royal guests and other influential people who are eager to see the new ruling couple.
One of the guests is the monarch of Tuans, King Mark himself and his delegacy. Their presence is both feared and admired. A lot of ladies gush and swoon over the famous king’s handsomeness while grieving families of dead soldiers blame him for their sufferings. However, no matter the rage and hate, to bring the ruthless war to an end is far more important for now, so nobody dares to make a move.
The ceremony is like every other, vows and speeches on the newly crowned king’s part while Cheng Xiao sits beside him in silence. Everybody in the temple bows before them, even the other king nods a little towards their direction. Yan An, now a legal King, steals a glance at his wife, the Queen and he isn’t surprised that her gaze is set on her brother and uncle instead of him. They are the family she never really knew and she will be separated from again from now on after all. He hates to think about how lonely she must feel. Surrounded by these walls and gold but all alone. Just like him.
Long ago, once he had a bird, a beautiful songbird. It was supposed to die because it fell out of the nest and broke a wing but he kept it and took care of it. He personally nursed it, fed it and helped it to learn how to fly. Yet, he cried so much when the bird finally flew away. But aren’t they all trapped birds in a golden cage? Even if he doesn't know her that well, how would he feel if she just left? Like everybody around him.
“The time has come,” as a king, he declares. “Peace is here. Thanks to my marriage with the lovely Princess… now Queen Cheng Xiao, the two greatest kingdoms of China are now allies and we will fight side by side against any shared issue of ours but not against each other.”
The guests are clapping and there’s no faking in their relieved smiles. The war is over, they can finally breathe. However, there’s always somebody who isn’t quite satisfied and while the cheering crowd tastes the fine wine, a young, reckless soldier steps forward.
“You are not worthy of that seat, bastard,” the kingdom’s own second in command protests and everybody gasps in shock. Even the guards are taken aback, not knowing what to do but they point their weapons towards him to protect the king at any suspicious movement. It doesn’t help their case that the reckless warrior is a son of a nobleman, one that respects the sacred bone very much so it doesn’t take anybody by surprise that he wants the General as the king.
“Step down, Yifan. It’s an order,” Sicheng commands despite being younger and he stands up from his seat not far from the new king and queen. He keeps his hand hidden, probably ready to strike his friend if he threatens the newfound peace.
“Sorry but for the sake of true pure blood, I can’t let him rule,” the man shakes his head but starts to walk backwards without taking his eyes off of Yan An. His cruel, crazy smile seems out of place until a swoosh sound resonates through the temple and screams fill the void.
Only inches from the king's face, his younger brother catches the flying arrow aiming to take his life. Sicheng’s often lovely face changes to the one he wears on battlefields, cold and distant, as he turns his head towards the traitor. He waves his men to stand by and not interfere while he throws away the arrow cutting his hand.
“We learned everything together. You have to be better to beat me,” he shouts after Yifan who is now in a circle of armed and masked men. One of whom tried to end the king’s life, a deadly crime.
“You two, get out of here,” the General looks at the royal couple one last time and then marches into the chaos of scared crowd with the king's soldiers to seize the traitors. The Tuan guards join him but even though their number is greatly outnumber Yifan’s, the stubborn rebel doesn’t give up. They start to fire more arrows and on cue, the royals are ushered into safety.
It doesn’t matter how fast they move, farther and farther away from the temple, Yan An stops on his tracks when he notices the abrupt halt in the light steps following him. Looking back, he sees the Princess - the Queen, he has to remind himself - calming down a crying kid and searching for his parents in the midst of tossing, sweating mess of bodies. Her tiara is halfway down as her always perfect hair is tangled and falling in front of her face. She doesn't pay attention to her surroundings so she isn't aware of the archer and his arrow pointed at her fragile figure from afar.
They don’t know each other yet and Yan An knows there’s nobody a king should die for. But he isn’t only the ruler of his kingdom but also a husband and a honourable man. He can’t just watch her die.
“Cheng Xiao,” he cries out when the bow snaps and the metal is on its way to pierce through her heart. The girl looks up, startled. Maybe because she thought he left without her or because he called her by her name for the first time but she doesn’t move and Yan An doesn’t think when he hurries to her side.
He doesn’t feel the pain at first, it hits him only when he has fallen to his knees and blood paints his coronation outfit where the arrow hit him.
“Your Majesty,” she gasps in a panicky voice and hurries to help him. She’s looking around to find the attacker but there’s nobody on the rooftops, not anymore. He has probably already fled away. “Come on, let's go,” she takes his arm and puts it around her shoulder not even giving him a chance to say no. She pulls him closer so she can help him carry his weight.
Because of the blood loss Yan An dizzily wonders how she can be so strong. While he is painfully aware that this is the closest they have ever been and what a pity that it happens like this. He’s dazed, his sight blurred and he’s sure that he has fainted a few times already when he wakes up from this nightmare.
The characteristic aroma of aloe vera and alcohol fills his nostrils but the sharp pain is gone. He feels numb yet he remembers the blood. Is he dead or dreaming? Both can be true if an angel like his wife looks at him with such saddened eyes.
“Your Majesty, you are awake! Uhm… sorry for my inappropriate behaviour but I had to cut your clothing so I can look at the wound and...” she’s rambling and takes her hands off the the herb leaves placed gently on the side of his ribcage. For somebody who should be used to being washed and dressed by maidens before rituals and ceremonies, he feels naked without the upper part of his formal attire because now, there are Cheng Xiao’s beautiful eyes on him. On his pale and weak body, one that shouldn’t be a king’s. Maybe Yifan’s right and Sicheng should rule instead. He’s more capable for sure and everyone would accept him as a rightful heir. But he’s doing this for his sake, so that his brother can have everything he can’t.
“Thank you,” he interrupts the bashful girl in a raspy voice, trying to sit up while looking around. Since he doesn’t recognise this dusty, old place, they are surely not in the palace. “Where are we?”
“In a pharmacy close to the temple. The owner helped me get you here. He’s gone to the palace to tell the General you are here,” Cheng Xiao answers putting one last layer of cream on his aching chest. Yan An exhales slowly as he watches her work.
“Where did you learned all this?” he asks curiously because he has never seen a royal know about such things.
“I wasn’t brought up as a princess, remember?” his wife reminds him with a soft smile and there’s something bittersweet in her tone. Her fingers don’t even tremble as she dress the wound and they brush against his delicate skin.
The king has to realize, again, that they don’t know each other at all. He knows it’s common with arranged marriages but he has never thought he would marry a stranger. If the princess hadn’t been lost all those years ago, they could have been raised together. They could have been friends. But what are they now?
“You should tell me about it one day.”
“Maybe, I will,” she says but it sounds like never. Something nobody dares to tell a king. Yan An knows that he has to be an iron-handed monarch if he wants to keep his place, if he wants his people to respect him and his choices. However, he doesn’t want them to fear him and it’s an almost impossible thing to do if even his own wife doesn’t tell him the truth. Maybe he will never know who she is for real.
“You are bleeding, too,” he blurts out too lost in her pretty features while she helps him arrange the pillows behind his back. She’s so close, he can almost taste the salt of her (or maybe his) sweat and blood but her flowers scent is the strongest, enchanting him. The king finds himself mindlessly moving even closer and his thumb brushes over the tiny wound on her rosy cheek.
Cheng Xiao doesn’t move, doesn’t avert her eyes and he feels his blood burning his veins as the starry night is looking back at him.
“You stopped to help a little boy. Somebody who wasn’t even your people. Why?” he asks, curious. Pure kindness of a heart was such a rare thing to see these times but the queen seems to have this quality. Even her answers sound sincere:
“They are humans, neither my people, nor yours,” she claims, oddly believing in the power of individuals. She seems fragile but also strong at the same time, hopeful and hopeless, a mystery of full moons as he stares at her. A riddle he may never solve.
“Why did you save me?” she asks pleading, barely above a whisper yet it sounds like a cry out in the silence settled between them. It's almost hypnotic, the intimate closeness of them and maybe between their immortal souls. too.
“You are my wife now, I have to protect you,” Yan An tells her, remembering his mother, a commoner artist’s words. She believed in goodwill and people and every year on his birthday when he could see her (until death did them apart), she told him to care about those who lean on him so in need, he can also lean on them. “But you saved me, too.”
“I barely did anything. The royal physician would have done much better job,” she protests but he shakes his head because he didn’t mean it like this.
“You could have left me there, on the square, but you didn’t.”
At that the queen turns her head to the side and walks away. As she stares out of the curtained window, she looks like the goddess of moon and Yan An is already dreaming when she whispers those fateful words: “Maybe I should have.”
But oh, the stars keep her secrets so well.
The Tuan king isn’t happy, to say the least, that his so-called blood sister was also endangered but he keeps a straight face at dinner. Luckily the rebellion got cut short as soon as they captured the instigator but they couldn’t earn safety and peace so easily. Fear and doubt poisoned the thick blood of people.
“My sister told me you saved her life. I wanted to thank you,” Mark breaks the uncomfortable silence settled in the gardens guarded by the temples of gods and guards.
Cherry blossoms are swirling in the air as if it was a day like any other but a lot of things changed since the morning. A prince became a king, a courtesan became his queen and they saved each other’s lives.
“No need to thank me. I didn’t do it because of our ally or some hidden intention. I simply don’t want her hurt.”
He is being nothing but genuine but in times like this, full of rage and blood, being so selfless is unheard of. Especially if the person is a king. They should be ruthless, strong-willed rulers, not caring about anybody before their country and themselves. But there’s a crack in Yan An’s perfection, a flaw so fatal, his enemies could strike him in one go if they knew: he cares too much and he bonds too easily. Because he’s trusting a traitor and a killer, the one who will draw his royal blood once a new chance arises. That’s the plan, right?
King Mark glances at the girl still dressed in her formal wedding clothes and watching the tint of blush on her cheeks while her expression is lifeless. Could she be the same girl they all have heard so much about? The best pupil in that courtesan house in the desert? Could she be the same he once knew? It feels like another life and maybe it was, looking at the distance between them. It feels as vast as the deep blue oceans and he’s not sure he can sail through the wild waves to set foot on her shores.
As things are currently, he might never find out the answer because being a King doesn’t mean he’s almighty. There are a lot of things he isn’t allowed to do, his hands are tied because of profane things like diplomacy and formalities. For one, having actual emotions is a luxury for people like him. They only complicate everything. But it seems, he isn’t the only one who is affected. Both him and the new Yan king are men of emotions unlike their brutal fathers. Maybe it’s the start of a new era, a peaceful one, he hopes but he doesn’t back out on their cruel plan. It’s for his people after all, for their safety he swore to protect.
It’s hard to say whether he could consider Xiao under his custody but he was more than delighted to hear that her husband means no harm to her. It also surprised him how gentle the boy was, especially in the way he looked at her. Oh a naive, young king, he will bring doom to his own kingdom.
It’s later that night, well after twilight when he can finally be alone. At least, almost alone since his guards are always following him in the shadows but in discrete distance. That’s all he needs because he doesn’t want anybody to disturb his conversation with the Queen of Yan kingdom. The maids before her chamber bow to him and fling the door open without question. The scene that welcomes him is dumbfounding and infuriating the least. He can see his uncle towering over the vulnerable girl ready to strike as a predator.
“I organized everything for you, but you still missed the perfect opportunity,” he growls and slaps her as quickly as a viper attacks its victims with a hit so hard, it makes her gasp. Before he could make another blow, Yien grabs his arm and twists it behind his back.
“Don’t you dare hit her again,” he snaps at him angered like a wild animal and grits his teeth, pushing his uncle away from the girl that’s supposed to be his sister. He is bitter and mad out of his mind which is certainly not good for his weak health.
The goodhearted king had no idea that it was his uncle who supported those rebels and didn’t even care about if the courtesan got hurt in the middle of the action. He even paid for them to make a chaos out of the celebration. Even better if she was targeted because then nobody would suspect that she’s his little doll. He never cared about those who are endangered, just him, only him.
“This little princess act isn’t the only thing what we got her for,” his uncle hisses and yanks his arm out of his nephew’s tight grip. His gaze is furious as if he was questioning how the younger dared to tell him off and humiliate him in front of a mere slave. Mark may be the king but his uncle has a big influence on his reign. He couldn’t just forget what he should thank him for and why he’s keeping him so close.
“No, but if he died without any other witness, everybody would suspect an attempt of dethronement. It wouldn’t help our reputation,” Yien protests calmly and shoos him away patiently like a parent would do with a child. “Patience.”
The man curses under his breath and strolls out of the suite like a madman. Neither the boy, nor the girl looks after him.
“Are you alright?” the king asks in a worried tone, stepping daringly close to examine the bruised area.
“Yes,” the courtesan answers bashfully, looking down so she could avoid saying the things she knows she shouldn’t. Like that if he didn’t come, she would have killed the older man. She wanted to slice his throat for humiliating her even if she knows she can’t. King Mark wouldn’t forgive her so easily if she did.
“He won’t stop until he gets what he wants. And now it’s Yan An’s head,” the king sighs disappointed because he spent the whole journey arguing with his uncle about the real plan he found out about. He wasn’t as stupid and naive as the older thought.
When the girl looks up at him from under her fringe, he looks so young. His blonde hair messily falling onto his forehead and his hand freezing in mid-air not sure if he should touch her or not. Would it be too inappropriate?
“Why is it so important for him?”
“Who knows? He just really wants me to unify the two kingdoms and to be honest, it would be better that way. We wouldn’t have to worry about wars anymore, at least not against an army as big as theirs,” the young man’s hand falls back to his side. “Are you sure you could do it? What he wants you to do?”
Before he could say another word, the girl moves. So quickly he can’t even react and in the next moment, there’s a sharp hairpin digging into the soft skin of his neck.
“Do you doubt me, Your Majesty?” she quirks an eyebrow, clearly not amused.
“Never, xiaojie,” he touches her cheek in endearment, fear never crossing his handsome face.
She smiles as she drops the pin and leans into his touch. “Good.”
King Yan An hisses in pain as the clothes detaches from his body tearing the skin and opening the wound again. Even if it’s only a surface scratch, thanks to his luck, it hurts and hardly heals. The royal physician is treating his bruise severely, taking it a lot more seriously than she should but maybe it’s understandable. Now, he isn’t just another crown prince in the line for the throne, he is the ruler of their kingdom. He shouldn’t be that careless to let it happen again but he doesn’t regret saving Cheng Xiao at all. If he let her get hurt, he wouldn’t be able to look in the mirror without despising himself. What kind of man that would have made him?
“Keep an eye on her,” Lady Meiqi warns him while changing the old bandage to a clean one after applying some heady smelling cream on the damaged skin. She doesn’t have to say the name out loud, Yan An already know who she’s talking about. Is it because of the recent events or that his wife is always on his mind nowadays? Who knows?
“Why?” he asks confused. Mostly because the physician doesn’t seem like she’s worried about Cheng Xiao’s well-being. More like that she’s worried about his, that maybe he will be stabbed in the back if he’s not looking. It’s an absurd assumption, isn’t it? What would she do to him? And why? Especially after she practically saved him? What’s more, the peace is a beneficial deal for both parties. So it just doesn’t make any sense.
“Don’t underestimate her just because she’s a girl, Your Majesty,” Meiqi explains vaguely and gulps. As the physician she was there when Xuanyi bathed and dressed her to the ceremony to examine her health. She saw the map of torture on her back: constellations made of scars. It was even more suspicious that she did an excellent job with the wound on His Majesty after the arrow hit him. How did she get those ugly scars? And where did she learn medical stuff?
“She isn’t our enemy, Lady Meiqi. Don’t forget, Cheng Xiao is your queen now,” the king warns her firmly with a slight edge in his usually soft voice. It isn’t a threat but it does sound like one and the girl bows deeply.
“I am sorry, I didn’t intend to make accusations,” she apologizes heartily and adds, even knowing her head could be taken for saying this out loud: “I just think you should be careful who you trust. The Tuans has never been trustworthy.”
Yan An opens his mouth to reply but nothing comes out, his words taste like bad wine and are swallowed by the dryness of his throat. After finished patching him up, Meiqi exits the room with a final bow, leaving him completely alone with his thoughts.
The palace is a colossus, big enough for two people to accidentally avoid each other but sooner or later, the king should meet with his legal wife especially if they didn’t consummate their marriage. They are both aware that they should soon since both kingdom is waiting for a heir, a future king to reign both lands with equal rights but Yan An busied himself with royal duties instead of husband ones. But they couldn’t keep it up forever. Weeks passed and rumours got around that the queen is always alone in her chambers. One day it even reaches the king’s ears and he’s ready to prove them wrong. Arranged marriages are always come to this point. Most of the times, sooner than later.
When he knocks on the gilded door, he’s surprised to be greeted by the queen dressed so little it’s almost obscene. He waves at the maids and guards to leave and they obey right away, pulling the door shut behind them.
Silence stretches in the spacious room as they look at each other. The king’s mouth is dry, the queen is fiddling with her clothes. Neither of them moves, not for a long time but then the girl is reaching out with her right hand, beckoning him closer. The silk robe she wears barely covers her breasts and only reaches her knees, showing off her ankles and Yan An can’t help but stare. He’s not sure how he’s still functioning when he takes her hand and let her guide him to the big, soft, baldachin bed.
“Did you...” he starts uncoolly and his breath hitches, “... know I was coming?”
Cheng Xiao looks him straight in the eye, standing up so they are only inches away. Her eyes seem blown and lips appear to be shiny and soft.
“The maidens, they told me to change. To look pretty for you.”
The king frowns bitterly, searching for her eyes.
“You are always pretty,” he says and he doesn’t lie. For him, it’s obvious just like the fact that the Sun is coming up every day. Yet, the girl looks taken aback as if she has never heard the compliment before, but she must have! A beauty like her should be showered with love.
She doesn’t answer. At least not with words as she leans closer and closer until there’s no more space between them and places her lips faintly on his. He trembles when she pulls back, catching her breath and Yan An automatically follows her body shift. It’s an entirely new sensation, something he hasn’t experience in all his life. Not even the innocent touch of lips.
Even as a prince, he has always been shy, never approaching any pretty lady while girls simply didn’t dare to approach him because of his lot higher class. He has only ever met with maids and relatives. He has never felt those sparks of flame when he looked into her eyes, his palms have never burnt to touch that honeyed skin of hers and adore her at the altar of her body. She tastes so sweet he believes he could get addicted on it, he’s already lightheaded when they fall onto the bed with a loud thud.
Cheng Xiao takes the side of his head into one hand guiding him to a better angle and Yan An couldn’t care less about the embarrassing noises he probably makes when she feels so good, so soft and warm against him. The smooth slide of their lips suddenly change into something more messy and desperate as she takes his hand into hers and places it on her bare thighs under the skirt and both of them gasps at the new feeling of hot skin on skin.
“Back then... did they force you to… you know...” Yan An’s panting barely an inch above her, searching for answers in the dark abyss of her eyes.
He’s selfish and he knows this but the thought of anybody else touching her this way makes him angry and sad. But otherwise, how could she know all this? That how and where to touch to make him all bothered? How to kiss him to take his breathe away?
“You mean to ask if I was a sex worker as a courtesan?” the girl mutters, not at all ashamed as she lies under him and receives a slight, uncertain nod as a reply. He may be the king but Yan An is just a boy, inexperienced with women, it’s pretty obvious. “They made me do a lot of things I didn’t want to do but my virgin price was too high for anyone. So no, Your Majesty, I was not.”
Everything she knows, she knows from stories of older courtesans and books a girl her age shouldn’t read under normal circumstances. But they made sure basically all her life that she was ready. However, she has always believed there would be no emotions, not even harmless fond ones.
“I’m sorry,” her husband whispers, a tight gut forming in his throat just from imagining what she had to have been through even if he didn’t know her back then.
“No need. You have every right to know,” Cheng Xiao shakes her head, her lips slightly brushing against his in the most intimate way, the puffs of her exhaled breath warming his already blushed cheeks.
“Not just that. But that you had to suffer,” the king corrects himself while stroking her jaw tentatively but oh so lovingly. “Now that you are here, I want to make sure you are happy.”
They live in such cruel times, selfless golden hearts are hardly heard of... but could it be? That the king of Yans is gentle like a cool breeze in spring? How could he rule a country then? How could she not getting weak for him?
“Why are you so kind to me?”
Don’t! You are just making it harder, she wants to scream at him from the top of her lungs but she can’t when he looks at her with those melancholic eyes.
“Because I know how it feels to be unwanted in the palace,” he says softly, genuinely and Cheng Xiao lets him kiss her everywhere, including that never-fading birthmark on her wrist.
Once upon a time, there was a golden haired girl. She had a tiara on her head, a brother by her side and crystal jewels all over her body making her a valuable target for any enemy. A victim or merely a show-off prey, because the more gold meant the bigger price on her head. So she was sent into hiding, waiting to reveal herself when the right times comes. But she had enough of lazing around, soon she will take back what’s hers.
"Have you heard the gossips, Your Majesty?" Chenle pries quietly at the next big family dinner. Relatives all over the continent from different kingdoms came back to congratulate on the coronation of the new king and discuss the tasks he had in mind for them. But somewhere along the way in-between drinks and majestic meals, the conversation’s topic soon changed.
"What?" Yan An looks up from his plate searching for the eyes of his second cousin. The younger doesn’t look at him, instead he shares a meaningful look with his brother, Yukhei who continues with a nonchalant shrug:
"They say that the Tuans just bought an orphan girl to play the part. That she’s not the princess we have all been looking and waiting for."
But yes, she is. The king argues silently. For him, she’s the one he searched for and didn’t even know. She was everything he ever wanted and more, a fair queen, a sincere but lovely woman and a passionate lover. He couldn’t help but fall for her. And the more times they spent together, the more he fell.
She’s still a mystery, an enigma nobody could ever solve. She’s quiet but observant, gives him good advice about not only household matters but politics, too. But sometimes, at night, she looks like the devil disguised as an angel with that fire burning in her eyes but he keeps letting her in to share a bed. Sometimes nothing happens, they just talk but on other nights, when the moon is out, they make love and he kisses each of her scars while telling her how beautiful she is.
"Never speak about the Queen like that, you hear me?" he fumes even though he is very well aware that the younger royal only voiced out the worry of people. They love their queen very much and maybe that’s exactly why they don’t want to acknowledge that she came from a house that led numerous wars against them. Still these kind of talks can be harmful, so Yan An would rather not have Cheng Xiao hear about these.
Since that night, the awkward tension between them has gone and been replaced by a different atmosphere. One that’s filled with fleeting touches and stolen glances.
"But... don’t you see? She has been manipulating you," Kun, one of his older relatives on a side-branch of Yan’s family tree, dares to add and everybody, even Sicheng eyes his reaction carefully. They all know what it means to have a puppet king controlled by a foreign queen. Maybe even the end of their kingdom.
“No, she hasn't,” Yan An objects and prorogue this ridiculous conversation by saying the wine tastes bad and it took away his appetite. Somewhere far away, the Tuans might smile in satisfaction because he really has no idea what they plan for him.
As the Moon Parade is coming up, Yan An suggests going to her home kingdom for the celebrations. Lately, he has seen Cheng Xiao looking quite down, so melancholically sad, especially after she read her brother’s letters. It’s only natural that she misses him, a sibling she only got back now and also lost him to the other king pretty soon. He just wants to make his wife happy, he reasons when he announces the journey to the eastern shore and the palace physician also approves. Meiqi told him that the queen is in good enough health physically to bear a child despite having being malnourished during her teen years and the reason why she hasn’t conceived yet may be in her head. The change of atmosphere might help.
But the queen is quieter than usual as they approach the place she was born in. She has sorrowful grey nostalgia in her eyes as she stares out of the carriages’ window, looking around, mapping the scenery as if she has never seen it before. However, Yan An doesn’t doubt her, doesn’t even want to. She has been lived away for more than ten years after all, these forests must be foreign to her even if she once knew the sprouts.
“Your brother...” Yan An’s gentle voice breaks through the silence and draws her moon eyes to him. “You two are quite close, aren’t you?”
Such a strange thing to ask, some might say but in royal houses tainted by the hunger for power, brotherly love is so rare. Not to mention that in their case, the miracle of finding his little sister was quickly followed by marrying her off. It was like he only used her as a property but the loving smile she kept just for him didn’t make sense.
“Yes, we are,” she whispers into the awaiting space and unconsciously touches her wrist. Now it's covered by her dress but they have spent together enough nights for the king to know that she has an ink spot-like scar there. “As a child, we played a lot in the gardens, just running around. I looked up to him, admired him but now we are both adults and we should stop playing hide-and-seek.”
That’s what you were doing? Hiding? Yan An wonders, marvelling at the lovely frame of her face. Of course, the courtesan house is the last place anybody would have searched for her. But… did it worth it?
The king brushes a thumb over his wife’s right cheek lovingly and she instantly leans into his touch, perfectly fitting like the yin to the yang. He almost makes the mistake of asking what it was like and how they found her but now and there it isn’t the time or place for questions like this.
“We are here,” the rider announces loudly as the horses halt and they make their way out of the carriage. The peasants welcome the royal couple with cheers.
Luckily, the reception is better than expected but they walk into the glorious palace with practiced smiles. When they are offered moonflowers in honour of the feast, Yan An takes both with a fond expression on his face and turns towards this beautifully dressed wife.
“May I?” he points at her hair that’s already decorated with diamonds and golden accerssories. What could a tiny white, trivial flower add to the sight? Still, she smiles, brighter than the Sun itself and nods.
Yan An’s fingers don’t shake anymore when he touches her. Yet, his breath still hitches when their eyes meet after he’s done with placing the flowers among her locks. The adornment she treasures the most out of all the jewels she wears.
The flowers are stepped on where they lay on the floor trashed and useless. Cheng Xiao is shoved to the ground as well while barbaric hands tear at her pretty outfit and the palace guards are nowhere to be found.
“Why can’t you just obey and do what you were ordered?” the man riots and the girl had always known that Mark’s uncle didn’t need much to snap.
Now, it seems like he certainly had enough of the games the courtesan played. Who did she think she was anyway? They had an agreement and if she didn’t keep her word and promise to fulfil her part of the deal, he might as well throw her into the dungeon she, as a slave, belongs. But he needed a plan, one that ensures that the reputation of the Tuan kingdom doesn’t get damaged. He wouldn’t want that merely because of a silly, silly girl. They can always make it seem like it was the Yans’ fault. But at those times they lived in, even a king killing his wife wouldn’t have been obnoxious So who cares?
“You can’t even do that much! I have to take the matter into my own hands, you stupid slut. You would deserve to have your tongue cut off for your lies and that bastard you protect so much, he should have an arrow through his heart before you could break it,” he growls into her face with so much spite, it makes her nauseate. “I made sure that he will be dead by tomorrow. Then Yien will rule and I will let you rotten in the dungeons. But first I will make you watch your precious husband die. Slowly. Painfully.”
The man grabs her hair and yanks it so hard she has to grit her teeth not to scream. But she won’t because she doesn’t need help. She has never been that weak, innocent thing they thought her to be.
“You don’t get to tell me what to do!” she glares at him just like a mad goddess full of fury and he doesn’t even feel the first stab, it happens so fast. He gasps and his grip turns into a desperate hold on her shoulders as he loses his balance. Blood already coats the girl’s hand scarlet red as she twists on the fancy hairpin, another gift from Yien, deep in his chest. Every tiny flick of her hand is emphasized by a word she hopes he will remember even in the afterlife. “I. Am. Your. Queen.”
She has fire in her eyes and a soul as black as the night. She’s the warrior now they raised up in the courtesan house. She’s like the man himself wanted her to be: a ruthless killer and she has become the ruin of him.
There’s still blood on her hands when the Tuan king finds her with a dead body at her legs. The guards following him draw their swords immediately but Mark stops them with the wave of his hand.
“I’m sorry,” Cheng Xiao looks at him pleadingly, not being able to read in his masked expression but the king calmly offers her a handkerchief. It’s white and clean. May it be the symbol of forgiveness?
“He would have never stopped,” he sighs looking over his glassy eyed uncle who has always been obsessed with the idea of their golden age. Look where it took him: defeated by a girl he dismissed.
“I know,” she agrees with a sigh and gets onto her two feet. Her left cheek is angry red where the man hit her earlier and the blow left scars across the pearl skin due to his rings. It will be so much trouble to cover it with makeup.
“You did the right thing. I don’t want war or rebellion. These previous weeks have been tranquil, we didn’t have it that way for so long,” the king says knowing fully well that his uncle worshiped chaos in the name of greatness. He would have done anything to take the throne from the Yans. No wonder why he despised the fact that the match for the marriage seemed prosperous.
Silence has never felt so odd between them before but now, they both are immersed in their own thoughts that somehow shift into the same direction.
“Will you tell him?” Yien asks and the queen knows right away that it’s not about the uncle anymore. Memories of big, bright, hopeful eyes appear in her mind and her heart threatens to break if that fond look turns into a frown. However, lately even him, the oh so loving Yan An seemed suspicious of her and he has every reason to be doubtful.
“I should. Even if it makes him hate me.”
Mark chuckles lightly.
“I don’t think that could happen. But just know that you’re always welcomed here,” he promises as generous as always but his serenity is sincere. He thinks of himself as someone who can read others well and he saw how the Yan king looked at Cheng Xiao. It would take a lot of him to push her away. Especially now.
“I have missed you,” she confesses, almost tearing up. She looks more like the 6-years-old girl that lives in his memories than a queen with cranberry red blood on her hands. Her beautiful doe eyes bore into his with the same adoration they held all those years before.
“I know. I missed you too, my little Nightingale,” he smiles at her sweetly and dips down to press a feather-like kiss to her forehead. Siblings should stick together after all, don’t they?
Another king stands tall in an all blue outfit in front of the wide window of the shining palace. His hands are curled into fists by his side, the letter he got earlier teared apart and burnt by the candles he found in the room. Chaos would arise as soon as its content got out and in this uncertain era, even a rumour would be enough to bring him doom. But what if it’s really nothing more than hearsay? Why should he believe somebody he has never spoken to? Well then why does he feel so unsure?
Maybe because the letter was right about a lot of things and suddenly everything makes sense. Still, he doesn’t want to believe it. Why would King Mark go through the trouble of paying for a high-level slave to marry him just to kill him? Why would he lie about his sister? But again it would explain a few things. For example, that mystery around her.
There’s no knock on the door, nor announcement, so he wouldn’t even heard the noises if he didn’t pay close attention. The girl comes from the shadows, like ghosts in old folktales but she’s real and solid like the marble she steps on.
“You are brave for coming here so boldly,” he speaks up firmly, not looking away from the window.
Nobody should disturb a king in his chambers without invitation. Nobody. So he tries to keep his tone cold but it sounds rehearsed instead. He doesn’t have to look, he has her portrayed in his head so detailed, he can literally imagine her standing in the corner in a dress fully black just as the night when there’s no moon up. Oh the irony.
Her long blonde hair falls onto her back and shoulder, the contrast so ethereal like a painting. Though, Yan An blames the gods that such beauty could even exist in human form. It’s weakening. Especially since she is here, it means the letter was right. Then why does he still has doubts?
He forces himself to stay put, accepting his fate but he has to ask that one tricky, heartbreaking question: “Are you here to kill me?”
The question takes Cheng Xiao by surprise and she almost slips. To the Hell with the slippery floors of these palaces. She tries hard not to tear her gaze away from his nostalgic form. He’s just standing there, not at all like a majestic king but a boy waiting for her next move. He doesn’t even try to defend himself or call the guards. Is it because he trusts her too much or because he’s okay with dying?
“Would you let me?” she asks fingers closing around the sin-tainted hairpin in her hand. It’s still wine red and sharp, ready to kill, yet her fingers tremble and her throat is closing in discomfort.
There’s nobody around. It would be the perfect opportunity to fulfil her original purpose but she can’t. She cannot bring herself to do it even though she did the same thing with cold-blood earlier.
Although Yan An has the answer on the of his tongue, he doesn’t reply but the slope of his shoulders goes rigid as he turn around to face the sudden visitor. There she is: oh so beautiful and more dangerous than ever.
“Why now? You could have killed me dozens of times,” the king inquires further, seemingly cannot drop the topic until he gets his own answers. He’s eager to know what happened, even if he doesn’t dare to hope that the reply will satisfy him. Especially if they only shoot questions back at each other.
“How do you know about this?” the girl furrows her brows, taking a few careful step closer, idly looking around in the majestic guest room her brother had prepared for the Yan king. Since only a handful of people knew about the plan, she wants to know who ratted them out. And what if he knows more?
“I got a letter from your uncle…” he says letting out an awkward laugh, “But he isn’t really your uncle, is he?” Yan An corrects himself quickly, back straightening. His voice is suddenly cold, formal and Xiao flinches at the unfamiliarity of it.
“What did he tell you?” she’s ignoring his question. Again, and it makes the king sigh exasperatedly. Always those damn secrets. It’s getting tiring.
“Just that you are an impostor,” he sums up the content of the letter he had read more than four times before burning it. The words engraved themselves into his brain haunting him, mocking him. They never found the real lost princess, just picked one of the girls who looked like her and paid her to play the part, the letter said and he wondered how could he love a liar?
Cheng Xiao takes a breath of air sharply at the accusation as the king watches her closely, drinking in every feature and wondering whether her smiles were genuine at all.
“Is it true?” he can hear that goddamn hope in his voice and he curses himself for being weak and love? But what if she says no and he’s being paranoid for no reason?
However, the queen has that sad look in her pretty eyes, It’s unfair, nobody should look so unearthly beautiful if they are guilty as charged.
“No,” she answers finally and looks straight into his eyes, voice steady and sure but isn’t all courtesans trained actresses, professional liars? Maybe she faked the whole thing just to trick him into loving her, getting high on her kisses and intoxicated by her scent. He’s burning in the inside to believe her but how could he? Where are the facts and proofs? And why would her uncle lie then?
“But he didn’t know,” she adds at last, answering his last silent question but the past tense makes the boy furrow his brows in suspicion.
“Where is he now?”
Despite the nonchalant look on her face, silence tells it all and it shatters into pieces when she drops the bloody pin.
“He was the one who wanted you dead, I had to,” she starts explaining when the tension becomes too much and too heavy on their chest. She isn’t that well put together queen anymore, she seems rather desperate to confess her sins. “I never really intended on killing you after I got to know you. If I did, you would be dead already. I just wanted back what I was taken away.”
“So you’re telling me that you’re the real princess but your uncle didn’t know and you went along with his crazy plan? Why would you hide in a courtesan house in the first place and why didn’t you just tell him you are the one? Why did you need me for getting back what was yours?” Yan An snaps at her, more confused than ever and he feels like yanking at his own hair in frustration. He should despise her for killing his relative since he shouldn’t love a killer after all. But it doesn’t matter at all because desperate times require desperate measures and everybody is a murderer on their own. He led a war against her kingdom that shed so much blood it could fill his bath. They are all monsters in the end.
According to King Mark, with the marriage offer they let him choose his own destiny. He could have rejected it and keep the rage and carnage going. But since he’s weak for young, pretty and innocent, his choice was obvious: he couldn’t say no to the lost and found princess who has been engaged with him since birth. He’s said to be a good man. He thinks he can save anyone but who will save him then? Will it be her?
“Once you asked me if I would tell you my story one day. I tell you now if you’re willing to listen,” she says slowly, hoping he would at least listen to her before kicking her out. He would have every right to do that and restart the war with their kingdom. Yet, he simply nods and ever so politely offers her a seat to take.
Cheng Xiao bows and sits on the sofa. Every movement of hers is tentative and respectful, with no intention to invade his place or offend him, so she doesn’t sit too close or too far. Still, it feels like they are strangers again.
“He wasn’t my uncle because I’m not the late king’s daughter,” she confesses the secret only a few people knew in the court. Affairs aren’t unusual in their class, but women keeping company for themselves seems a much more despicable thing rather than when men do the same. “But don’t worry, the queen was really my mother so it makes me a princess. I got my hair from her, Yien as well. Also, we both have a birthmark on our wrists here. That’s how he knew I’m really his sister,” she adds and to prove herself, she rolls up the sleeves of her dress to reveal her bare wrist. Even though she knows he has already seen it, he never asked what it is or why she keeps it hidden sometimes. But if it was the proof, wouldn’t it be the best to let the world see? What is she afraid of?
“I was never really lost, I was just in hiding,” the girl continues, gaze filled with nostalgia drifting afar. “When the rebellion broke out, a maid rescued me at my mother’s request. She took me to the courtesan house of Jianfeng because she knew the owner and paid him a lot of gold to keep my secret and train me. His job was to teach me how to protect myself until the time comes. So when Yien’s uncle came to get a girl to kill the Crown Prince, we knew my time is close but I couldn’t reveal myself, not until I was sure he or other traitors wouldn’t kill me if he knew the truth.”
“Why would he have done that?” Yan An suddenly interrupts her, confusion colouring his strict expression.
“Like I said: I’m not his brother’s child so I’m basically a danger to their bloodline if I claim the throne after Yien’s hopefully very far future death.”
“Alright, I get it,” the king nods and he really does but the little pieces still don’t make up the big picture. It seems too much work just to get him killed. “But... wouldn’t it have been easier to pay for an assassin to kill me rather than going through all this procedure to find somebody to marry me?”
Cheng Xiao gulps and looks at him sharply. It’s a warning look, the one that says he doesn’t want to hear the answer but he doesn’t take the question back. So she sighs.
“I think you know the answer already. If people believe that I’m pregnant with the king’s child, both kingdoms can be ruled by the Tuans.”
“Of course, it’s always about that damned crown,” the boy hisses looking wounded as if the words hurt him physically. This time, when he looks at her, he’s angrier than ever. Disappointment glowing in his eyes like never before and it’s a scary look on him. It might be the first time when the queen is afraid of him. “Did you feel anything for me or was it all just part of the plan, to bear a king's child?”
The blame burns and she retorts with equally hurtful words:
“And did you? Or you just wanted to become a king as soon as possible so you were okay with the first princess thrown at you?”
Yan An’s jaw tightens but he knows two can play this game.
“Well, somebody has to rule,” he says harshly because he won’t say sorry for doing the right thing no matter how selfish it sounds.
“And somebody has to fight for what they have,” the ex-courtesan argues, tone just as rigid.
They stare at each other, flames in their eyes, hearts beating fiercely and then the queen stands up. It happens so fast: she hears the movement of shuffling before she hears the bow’s snap and she turns, quickly like lightning and throws a small dagger, hidden under her sleeve, towards the unwanted visitor. It hits the masked figure straight in the chest and blood bubbles up from the dark haired girl’s mouth as she drops down dead. It’s been a while she had to use her skills but her aim is deathly, they used to say. It doesn’t look like it changed.
Cheng Xiao remembers the girl with glazy eyes from the courtesan house, always quiet and observant, great in archery but she also remembers the uncle’s words about making sure to end this. Of course, he didn’t do half work, he didn’t pay for only her to do the job. This is the reason why she doesn’t feel regret, only pity… and pain. A pain so awful that it makes her grasp and losing balance as her knees go out under her. It’s only then when she looks down on her own chest, staring at the dark dress getting darker and darker each passing second. The blood is like a waterfall going down, down, down and she feels like drowning.
“Xiao!” the king cries out in panic and crouches down beside her. With a hand holding her back, the other tries to suppress the bleeding from the fresh wound. “Somebody help!”
Even in the haze of pain, the girl feels warm all over. It’s not the first time he called her that but she considers herself lucky to be able to hear it again.
She coughs a little and her voice becomes raspy when she opens her mouth to speak. “They won’t come. I sent them away.”
The arrow just above her heart makes it hard for her to breathe and she’s grabbing on her chest to ease the sore but it’s like swimming against the current. Beyond reason.
“Ssh don’t talk, it’s alright. I will get help,” Yan An makes another promise he probably can’t keep but he cannot just sit and wait. He’s holding her close not wanting to let go and the frustration of his helplessness hits him hard. What’s the point of being a monarch if you can’t save those you care about?
“I love you,” Cheng Xiao forces out desperately, not to run out of time. She can barely keep her eyes open and her trembling fingers are closing around the king’s shirt as if he was her only anchor. Her blood-covered lips are quivering as she’s confessing. “You should know... It was a-all real. I loved you from the day y-you saved me. We are even now.”
She touches his face lovingly, a sad smile forming on her pretty features but instead of goosebumps, she’s only leaving bloody handprints behind.
“No. Don’t say it like you are saying goodbye,” the king, acting like a lovesick boy, can only protest and shake his head as he pulls her closer. No, it can’t be, it can’t end like this. There are still so many things left unsaid between them. “Please, don’t leave me. Not yet. I love you,” he whispers it like a prayer, kissing the words into her sweaty skin.
Maybe he has always loved her. The girl he was supposed to marry. But then he met her, the shy yet brave princess and when he fell, he fell hard. He knew it’s love when nothing could come between them anymore. When he read that letter and didn’t care who she was. For him, title doesn’t matter. She could be a queen, a courtesan or a commoner, he would love her the same.
“We are more alike than we originally thought, Your Majesty, we both have scars people can’t see,” Cheng Xiao mutters with her last breath hitting his cheek and then her lashes flutter closed. Darkness welcomes her with open arms as she loses consciousness, falling limply into the arms of the man she loved in secret but oh so dearly.
It’s a rare sight. The two kings in the same room, silent, waiting. Everything smells like herbs, even the heady air around them and it darkens the gloomy atmosphere even more until Yien can’t take it anymore.
“How is she?” he asks quietly but with loud concern. Without their crowns, they are just two young men who gave up a lot and lost even more in the process. Neither of them is ready to lose another loved one and nothing has ever brought the two kingdoms closer than their love for the same girl.
“According to the physician, it will take time but she’ll recover,” Yan An nods towards him, momentarily looking away from the unconscious girl lying on the cosy bedding. If there wasn’t a bandage on her chest, it would look like she’s only sleeping. Or hiding like summer’s beauty, the flowers, during the harsh, ice-cold winter.
“She is a survivor,” Yien notes relieved and turns to the younger king, putting a hand on his shoulder. “Take good care of my sister or I’m going to change my mind and agree with my uncle about killing you.”
He’s talking threateningly yet it feels like he’s giving his blessing and not only as the king of his country but also, as Cheng Xiao’s brother. It makes Yan An smile.
“We will take care of each other,” he promises and doesn’t let go of her hand.
Never again.
A year later, the Queen gives birth to a healthy son, the rightful heir of both Yan and the heirless Tuan throne. It takes almost two decades but with his reign, the era of sixteen kingdoms is coming to an end and they welcome the dawn of a new age. May it bring peace finally.
History books will remember the rule of Yan Yalun as one of the most flourishing era of China and the monument he built for his parents will make sure that people never forget: true love conquers all even under the weight of the crown.
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