Crown Thief ch 39
Title: Crown Thief
Fandoms: SS501, Super Junior, JYJ, SNSD, Epik High
Chapter: 39/40
Pairing: HyunJoong/YoungSaeng, RyeoWook/Zhou Mi, HyungJoon/JungMin
Rating: R overall
Warning: AU, violence, angst
Summary: Different lives converge in the city of Highport, where one innocent crime has the potential to destroy a kingdom.
Only a day had passed, but to YoungSaeng it seemed an eternity. Things were going to go back to normal, and that was important. Well, normal was relatively speaking for them, since their lives had been so changed from the past half a year that there was no going back to who they were before this whole mess had started.
It was a prospect that had YoungSaeng a little scared. Leaning up against one of the parapets at the top of a tower, he stared out at the countryside below. Since the return of SiWon, HyunJoong had been locked away behind doors in meetings all day. It was understandable that YoungSaeng wouldn't be allowed in, but that meant for a long boring day for him.
"Hey...what are you doing all the way up here, boss?" HyungJoon leaned out of the door to the tower, seeing him there. "I had to ask almost everyone to find where you were hiding." He stepped out of the stairwell, panting a little from the long flight of stairs as he leaned against the parapet beside YoungSaeng.
"Well I was enjoying some peace and quiet," YoungSaeng said, looking over at him with a smirk. "Just doing some thinking Joon. What are you doing looking for me?"
"Haven't seen you all day, and KyuHyun's locked himself up in a room with either a really good book or YeSung," HyungJoon shook his head, smiling at the older man. "Thinking? About?"
"About what's going to happen to us now," YoungSaeng said, blinking a bit and looking at HyungJoon. "With YeSung? What am I missing?"
"Those two have been spending a lot of time together, haven't you noticed?" HyungJoon chuckled. "I think they're staying in the same room now."
"No, I haven't noticed," YoungSaeng smirked, shaking his head. "That's good though, maybe YeSung can help with KyuHyun's constant crankiness. Didn't see it coming though. What of you and JungMin? Are things better between you?"
"Mhm," HyungJoon nodded, looking down at his hands clasped together on top of the stone. "We talked, and things are better now. It's pretty good. What about you and the knight?"
"That's kind of what I've been thinking about," YoungSaeng sighed. "RyeoWook and I are in kind of the same situation. We're in love with nobles... we don't fit the mold for noble life. I know he's worried about what's going to happen now, as am I. HyunJoong's a knight, I'm a thief. KyuHyun was right about one thing... we're not a good match."
HyungJoon frowned. "Since when do you listen to what KyuHyun says though...I think you're a brilliant match. And if he's gonna let being a noble get between that, he's not the kind of guy you want anyways."
"Doesn't make it any easier, you know that," YoungSaeng said quietly. "I haven't even seen him once since HeeChul was killed. Right after the King addressed the people, he and the other nobles went up to the highest tower and haven't left since. What would it be like for me to be with someone who was never around?"
"It's only been a day, Saeng..." HyungJoon sighed softly, slinging his arm around YoungSaeng's shoulder. "Staying up here alone isn't helping. You know you can always find me if you want company, right? You don't have to make me search the whole fortress first."
"Didn't say I wanted company," YoungSaeng countered, nudging him a little in the ribs. "Thank you though. I know it's only been a day, but now that this is over and HyunJoong and I have no need to work together anymore, has me wondering what it is we're going to do."
"I think everyone's wondering that," HyungJoon mused, wincing at the nudge as he looked out over the land. "You two made an awesome team all this time though. I don't see that going away."
"I'm glad you're on my side at least," YoungSaeng said, closing his eyes and taking in a deep breath. "I'm glad I was wrong about JungMin. He seems to really care for you."
"Yeah," HyungJoon smirked slightly, looking down. "It took me a bit to realize it too. He said he'd shut down the brothel, but well...we'll see. There's too much going on right now."
"He'd shut it down for you?" YoungSaeng blinked at that and looked over at him. "Wow, you really have him under your finger huh?"
"I wouldn't say that," HyungJoon laughed, shaking his head. "He's a good guy. Okay, yeah he's a jerk sometimes, but he is a good guy underneath."
"There's always more than one side to a person," YoungSaeng said. "So why are you up here rather than with him somewhere?"
"Just because we're together doesn't mean we have to be attached to each other every second," HyungJoon blinked. "He's checking out the situation back on the ground, and I was worried about my boss."
"Why would you be worried about me?" YoungSaeng chuckled. "You know I'm a survivor."
"Yes, you're tough, we get that," HyungJoon rolled his eyes, nudging YoungSaeng. "That doesn't mean you aren't a mere mortal along with the rest of us." He touched one hand to his neck, blinked, and chuckled softly as he shook his head. He forgot JungMin still had his dad's luck charm.
"What, are you laughing at me now too?" YoungSaeng scowled, shoving HyungJoon away. "I'm going back downstairs, don't trip and fall over the edge of the wall. It's a long way down."
"I'm not laughing at you," HyungJoon did laugh at that, hooking his arms around YoungSaeng's waist. "Come on~, don't you want to spend time with me?"
Footsteps reached the top of the stairs behind them then. "So, why did you have to pick the tallest structure to hide in again?" HyunJoong panted a little, rubbing his legs.
"Because no one would bother me here," YoungSaeng replied. "Or at least I thought. Go on ahead HyungJoon, we can talk more later."
"Oh fine," HyungJoon chuckled, stepping around HyunJoong to head back down the stairs.
Straightening, HyunJoong walked to YoungSaeng. "You must really not want to be found all the way up here." He wrapped his arms loosely around the other man's waist.
"I thought you were going to be locked behind tall doors the rest of the day," YoungSaeng said, putting his arms around HyunJoong's neck and leaning against him. "You're the only one I wanted to find me."
"Which still begs the question why you're in a tower," HyunJoong chuckled, pressing a kiss to the side of YoungSaeng's head. "I'm sorry I've been missing, there's a lot to figure out."
"Maybe I felt like being a damsel in distress for once," YoungSaeng sniffed. "What all was there to figure out? HeeChul's dead, let's go home."
"You'd be surprised, he left a huge mess for everyone," HyunJoong sighed. "But good news: we should be heading back to Highport within the week."
"And then what?" YoungSaeng asked, pulling back to look into HyunJoong's eyes. "Where do we go from there?"
HyunJoong lifted one hand to brush bangs behind YoungSaeng's ear. "That depends on you. I know I'd like for you to live with me, both in the inner ring and back in Prylea."
"And we both know that isn't entirely practical," YoungSaeng said. "I'm a commoner... a thief at that. What would I do in the inner ring or some castle in Prylea? I wouldn't know what to do with myself."
"You're a talented man YoungSaeng, I don't think you'd find much trouble looking for something to do," HyunJoong's lips quirked. "I just don't want to have to ask you to leave your life in the lower ring behind. Regardless of if you join me in the inner ring or not, I want to support you financially...so I don't have to worry about you getting your hand cut off some day."
YoungSaeng frowned at that. "I like what I do... Hyun I'm not some empty headed noble who can sit and do cross stitch all day. I would never want someone to have to take care of me, that's not who I am."
"I'm not suggesting you do that," HyunJoong sighed, tucking his fingers under YoungSaeng's chin to look into his eyes. "YoungSaeng, I'm worried about you. We can find something else for you, something where I won't spend every single night I'm away worrying you've been caught and will be dead before I can get back."
"You'd be worried about me? What about you?" YoungSaeng said, pulling away. "You'll be leaving me behind to do who knows what, risking your life... You're worried about me, but I'll be just as worried about you, being where I can't help protect you."
HyunJoong looked down at YoungSaeng, exhaling slowly as he looked out towards the mountains. "It would solve so much of our problems if they just let commoners be knights. We could watch each other's backs."
"But they don't, and I can't," YoungSaeng said. "And I wouldn't ask you to give up your life... so what do we do?"
"I don't know," HyunJoong murmured. "Well...I'm not going to be doing anymore knighting until I'm at a hundred percent again...so we have some time to figure it out."
"There's a lot of people in the outer ring that count on me Hyun," YoungSaeng said, looking up at him. "People like RyeoWook who would die if I didn't bring them food, or fuel in the winter. Who'll take care of them now?"
"I don't have those answers," HyunJoong replied. "I don't know the lower ring as well as you do. All I can do is try to make this work to the best of my ability, because the alternative isn't something I want to even consider."
YoungSaeng sighed, hugging his arms as he turned away from HyunJoong. "Now that this is all over, there's a few realities we're going to have to face. One being that our lives don't mesh well together, no matter how much we want them to. I want to be with you, and not just in name, but share my life with you. I just don't know how we're going to do that so we're both happy."
"We'll think of something." HyunJoong looked over at him. Sighing, he pushed away from the wall and stepped closer to YoungSaeng, wrapping his arms around him from behind and resting his chin on YoungSaeng's shoulder. "Neither of us are quitters...I'm not going to start now, are you?"
"Never," YoungSaeng said with a small smile, leaning back against him. "You don't have any meetings to go to for a while do you?"
"There's another one tomorrow around noon, but I'm free for the rest of the evening," HyunJoong murmured, pressing a kiss to YoungSaeng's jaw.
"Then maybe we should find a room to retire in and worry about these things for when they matter?" YoungSaeng said, turning his head slightly so he could look at HyunJoong out of the corner of his eye. "We really haven't had that much time together, just you and I with no problems to worry about."
"Guess we have a lot to make up for," the knight chuckled, smiling at YoungSaeng. He wrapped one arm around YoungSaeng's waist, stepping towards the stairs.
***********************
Everyone was itching to return home, even if the final preparations still hadn't been taken care of, as well as one of their own wasn't yet fit for travel. RyeoWook had examined YooChun again the following day after the incident, and it would still be several more days before he would have the strength to make it down the mountain. Everyone had visited the injured noble, even Zhou Mi. Except for one person.
Taking a deep breath, KyuJong knocked lightly at the door of YooChun's room before opening it and peeking his head in. "You awake?"
YooChun's eyes were closed, but they opened when KyuJong's voice filtered into the room. "Yeah," he murmured, turning his head towards the door. He was under threat of being chained to the bed if he so much as tried to sit up, so he didn't move much.
"Oh good, I didn't want to wake you," KyuJong said, slipping in and closing the door behind him. "Unless you were trying to fall asleep, but it seems like you've been getting more than enough of that lately."
"Not much else to do, besides count bricks," YooChun gave a pained smile, watching the other man. He hadn't seen KyuJong since HeeChul's death, not sure what was going through the other noble's mind. He hadn't thought KyuJong would even visit him. "You look...well."
"You look better than the last time I saw you," KyuJong replied, a bare hint of a smile. "I'm sorry if I haven't come to visit you... I've been really busy..." Shaking his head, he stepped closer to the bed and took one of the chairs to sit down. "No, that's just an excuse. I could have made time to see you, and I didn't."
YooChun's gaze lowered. "I understand. I made a horrible decision, and there's nothing I can do to unmake it. You don't have to pretend to want to be here for my sake, KyuJong."
"I tried to think what I would have done in your position," KyuJong said quietly. "I don't know if I wouldn't have tried to save at least one person if I thought the odds were so high. I just don't understand one thing... why me?"
YooChun looked up at him again. This wasn't exactly how he'd imagined his confession to go, preferring showing up with a bouquet of roses and a composition in hand, but the gods seemed to enjoy playing tricks on him. "Because for as long as I can remember, I've been in love with you," he said quietly.
KyuJong didn't reply right away, his expression unreadable even as he reached out to take one of YooChun's hands in his own. "YooChun... you are a true gentleman. Honest and loyal to a fault. Anyone would be honored to hear a confession from, and I know there's someone out there who will love you truly. But I can't return your feelings."
Exhaling softly, YooChun looked down at the hand holding his own before closing his eyes. He was silent for a long moment. "I had a feeling that was the case. But I had to try anyways," he opened his eyes to give KyuJong a pained smile, eyes slightly glassy.
"I am sorry," KyuJong said, squeezing his hand a little. "Truth be told, if I had that same inclination towards men, you would be my first choice. Right behind HyunJoong," he chuckled. "You're my closest friend YooChun, and I would hate to lose that friendship... because I have some news for you... I wanted you to be the first to know."
YooChun needed a moment to collect himself before he spoke again. "What news would that be?" he asked softly, looking up at KyuJong.
"That I am... betrothed," KyuJong said, smiling sadly at him. "To SooYoung."
Not expecting that, YooChun inhaled deeply, looking away from KyuJong's eyes. After a pause he returned the other man's gaze, slightly strained smile on his lips. "Congratulations. You're still alive, so I'm guessing you already have SiWon's blessings."
"I do," KyuJong nodded. "I want to ask you something, and I don't need an answer right now. But when the time comes, I would be honored if you would stand with me."
Blinking rapidly, YooChun nodded. "It would be my honor to stand with you," he murmured, closing his eyes.
"Thank you," KyuJong said, watching him with sad eyes. It may have not been an appropriate time to discuss it, but KyuJong wasn't one to hold things back or keep secrets. He felt bad about hurting YooChun, but there was only so much he could do about that.
"Sir?" There was another soft knock on the door, Xander poking his head in. "Oh... I'm sorry, I didn't realize you had company. I brought your meal..."
"It's okay Xander, I was just leaving," KyuJong said, squeezing YooChun's hand again before getting to his feet. "Heal quickly," he nodded at YooChun before turning to leave the room.
YooChun opened his eyes once KyuJong was gone, wiping at the tears before they could fall. "Thank you Xander, just set it to the side please," he murmured, looking up at the ceiling and exhaling slowly.
Setting down the tray, Xander frowned slightly as he looked from YooChun to the door and back. "Something wrong sir?"
"No...it was good news," YooChun smiled shakily at the servant, the heartbreak showing in his expression. "KyuJong's going to be married to SooYoung."
"Oh... sir," Xander sighed, sitting down in the vacated seat. "You don't have to pretend with me."
YooChun chuckled softly, wiping at his eyes again. "I'm glad for him...and he's the only noble who SiWon would trust to take care of his sister. He'll made a great prince." His voice cracked, hand falling over his eyes as his face crumpled.
"You just wanted him to be your prince," Xander said, watching YooChun sadly. "I know what it's like to watch someone you love look at someone else. To not even consider you... I know it hurts." Reaching over, he took YooChun's hand. "You know I'm always here for you if you need me."
The noble needed a minute to just let the grief out, crying quietly. Finally the tears slowed, and he wiped at them with his free hand, sniffing.
"I know," he said quietly, deep voice scratchy. "You were the only one who still trusted me...who still believed in me. Thank you Xander." He squeezed the servant's fingers lightly. "I won't forget that."
"They don't know you like I do, and your reasons for doing the things you do," Xander said. "I'll always trust you, and do whatever you need me to do. I'll walk to the shadow world and back for you if you asked."
"I wouldn't ask you to do that," YooChun chuckled tiredly at that, smiling slightly at the other man. "I'd rather have you here beside me."
"Nowhere else I'd rather be," Xander said, returning the smile. "If you pardon me sir, I think you're a better catch than any princess. Lord KyuJong missed out on something special."
"Now I know you're just trying to make me feel better." YooChun squeezed Xander's hand lightly. "I think I can eat now...would you help me sit up? The healer nearly took my ear off last time I tried myself."
"As well he should," Xander said, immediately getting up to help YooChun sit up. Making sure there were enough pillows to prop him up and he was comfortable, Xander returned with the tray of food. "You'll be up and out of this bed in no time if you follow the healer's orders."
"Can't wait for that...I don't know how HyunJoong handles it, being stabbed is a pain." YooChun leaned back against the pillows gratefully.
"You're lucky to be alive sir, pain is good," Xander said, placing the tray on YooChun's lap and sitting down on the side of the bed.
"I know," YooChun sighed softly. "What have I missed? I don't hear much in here." He picked up the chopsticks, starting to eat slowly.
"Nothing interesting," Xander said, sighing morosely. "The Lords were locked away in their meeting, YeSung seems to have disappeared completely, and the thieves keep hiding from everyone."
"Not really surprised by any of those...except for YeSung, where's he gone to?" YooChun blinked at his servant.
"Him and that hand magician, KyuHyun," Xander said, giving YooChun a look. "They're staying in the room next to mine and you wouldn't believe the noises I hear at all times of the day."
Surprised, YooChun choked out a laugh and winced at the pain in his chest. "Well...didn't see that one coming. From what I remember, they were barely talking to each other in HyunJoong's manor without getting into arguments."
"Some people are like that, fighting like cats and dogs one minute, then humping like rabbits the next," Xander shrugged. "They'll be back to fighting in a week."
************************
The day before they were scheduled to leave for Highport, SiWon left the meeting with the lords early and requested for YoungSaeng's presence.
He was waiting for the thief by Shadowrock's gardens, hands clasped behind his back and easy smile on his face. The King nodded in thanks to the servant who had found the elusive thief, and they were left alone. Guards were stationed at various points around the garden, keeping an eye on the young King, but they were given their space without chance of eavesdropping.
"Thank you for joining me on such short notice, YoungSaeng. I haven't had a chance to speak with you yet, and I apologize."
YoungSaeng bowed a little awkwardly towards him. Having had cups of ale with the man, YoungSaeng didn't see him as the King, but knew he had to bow anyway. "No need for apologies... m'lord. You're a busy man."
SiWon chuckled softly. "You don't have to be so formal to me, YoungSaeng. Who's here to notice?" He motioned with one hand for YoungSaeng to walk with him.
"The guards, the people up there," YoungSaeng pointed towards the castle where he knew more than one noble was watching the two talk. He did fall into step with the King though, glancing over at him. "Was something on your mind?"
"They can't listen in to us at this distance...I've had Daniel be sure of that," SiWon smiled, hands folding into the sleeves of his robes. Contrary to when they'd been on the battlefield, and he'd worn the same garments as everyone else, now he was dressed as the King of Atlya should be. "I've been toying with the idea of beginning something in Highport on our return, and thought you would be the best person to consult."
He looked up at the mountains surrounding them. "During my time in Saryra, I've seen what they call 'Rider' groups...squads of commoner and merchant-class men and women trained as first-response teams for any problems around the Empire. The army itself is too large and clumsy for certain operations, and my knights are stretched thin across the kingdom. Quite frankly, we're not ready for a true invasion: the luck god was smiling on us when Han Geng decided to help rather than follow through with the war."
SiWon looked at YoungSaeng beside him. "Han Geng was kind enough to let me see how the Riders work: they're trained on Palace grounds, near where pages are trained for knighthood. Knights and Riders compliment each other. I want to begin a Rider class in Atlya...but I'll be the first to admit I don't know my own people as well as I should. So I've come to ask your opinion. HyunJoong has told me you take care of those in the lower ring as if you were their king."
YoungSaeng blinked, nearly stumbling over a root in the path. "King? No, I would never, never presume... I just took care of people, got them food and stuff. I wasn't trying to... you have to believe me," he sputtered out.
Blinking, SiWon barked out a laugh and shook his head. "Relax, friend. I'm not upset...in fact, quite the opposite." He clapped one hand lightly on YoungSaeng's shoulder. "If even a fraction of Atlyans are like you...it is my honor to be your King."
"Oh... okay," YoungSaeng breathed a sigh of relief. "Apologies, thought I was in trouble and you were leading me to the gallows or something," he said with a nervous laugh. "What were you saying?"
"Rider groups, YoungSaeng." SiWon smiled patiently. "Would those in the lower ring be interested in joining? Teachers would have to be found of course. It is a nicely paid position, but beyond the pay, are there any you know who would seriously consider joining such a group? Consider it a Knight class open to all, not just nobility."
"It depends," YoungSaeng frowned, considering that. He knew a few that would want to, but anyone in the lower ring would be suspicious of working for the crown. "If you want people to join, I think conditions for those in the lower ring need to be improved. You'll get all the low lives and thugs who'll join for the coin, but they wouldn't be trustworthy."
"No," SiWon shook his head. "That isn't my intention." He sighed softly. "I'm well aware that my father and grandfather may have been great rulers, but they did a disservice to many living under the noble class. I want to fix things - and it's completely understandable if you won't take my word for it now. But I want to be the King to look after all my citizens, not just the ones with the most coin."
"Then you would be a greater King than your ancestors," YoungSaeng said. "Providing a way for the children to become more than peasants and beggars is something a great King would do. It will take time set up what it is you're considering, but I think it can be done."
"Good," SiWon smiled softly at that. "Then I have one more thing to say. I spoke briefly with a few others about the Riders beforehand." His eyes danced. "Daniel, HyunJoong, Han Geng... HyunJoong recommended someone who would be a strong, dependable addition to the Rider group once it is formed. He's already proven he can outpace a Knight, and think quick on his feet. Of course he would probably have to be paired with a Knight for a while until more Riders are trained, but that is of course entirely up to him."
"...Okay," YoungSaeng blinked in confusion. "Why are you...?" he started to question why he was being told when something clicked. "Wait, HyunJoong recommended... I'm going to kill him."
"Please don't, now I won't even be able to feign ignorance," SiWon chuckled, smiling at YoungSaeng. "Something to ponder over. If you'll excuse me, I need to return to the meeting...can't leave them alone too long or nothing will get done today."
YoungSaeng inclined his head, watching SiWon walk away for a moment before he started after him. "Okay, I'll do it, but I have one condition."
SiWon stopped and turned to face the thief. "And what would that be?"
"HeeChul owed me and my men money," YoungSaeng said, lifting his chin a little. "I'm sure you know why, but I want that payment we're owed."
The King frowned lightly in thought at that. "I do know why...I'm sure you can understand why I'd be hesitant to reward one for the dagger that killed my father."
YoungSaeng winced, looking away. "You know that wasn't what we had in mind when we took the job," he said quietly. "When we found out it is was because of us that King had been killed, we... I vowed to set it right. To cut that assholes throat and take every coin he had on him."
"I know. And I find it very noble of you to want to do so." SiWon rested his hands lightly on YoungSaeng's shoulders. "I will see to it you're reimbursed for your struggles in some way...but don't ask me to reward you for my father's death, please."
Lowering his eyes, YoungSaeng nodded. "Of course, I'm sorry I demanded that of you, it was thoughtless. I've spent my whole life fighting to get every copper I could." Frowning, he looked back up at SiWon again. "That money was to help HyungJoon's family... if you could just help them, that's all I'll ever ask of you."
The sad look on SiWon's face shifted into a soft smile as he looked down at YoungSaeng. "That is something I can do. You have my word." He squeezed YoungSaeng's shoulders before letting go.
"Thank you," YoungSaeng bowed again, a proper bow to his King. "I'll take my leave now, and go beat up a knight... except you didn't hear that," he winced, bowing again as he backed away.
"Hear what?" SiWon laughed, shaking his head. "Rest well tonight YoungSaeng, we leave for Highport in the morning."
"You as well, m'lord," YoungSaeng grinned before turning and heading back towards the castle.
**********************************
It was nearing dusk when SiWon called them all together again to one of the formal chambers in the castle. It was just their small group that had grown close over the past few weeks, none of the other nobility or even Han Geng though he and SiWon had seemed inseparable lately.
"What's this about?" RyeoWook asked Zhou Mi quietly as they stepped into the room, seeing a few of the others already there. SiWon was not.
"No idea," Zhou Mi said, glancing around the room. "I haven't seen this room in... well, years. My father used to use this as his study."
"A study?" RyeoWook blinked, looking around as well.
"Hey," HyunJoong quirked a smile at them, sitting with his back to a wall. "His Majesty will be here soon. Where've you two been hiding?"
"If we told you, then you could find us," Zhou Mi chuckled. "I could ask the same of you, but I probably don't want to hear any of the details."
"No, and RyeoWook doesn't either," YoungSaeng said as he approached where they were standing. "Why are we here?" he asked HyunJoong.
"You'll see as soon as SiWon gets here," HyunJoong smirked, hands out for YoungSaeng.
"So...you already know," RyeoWook frowned.
"Of course I do," HyunJoong snagged YoungSaeng and tried to pull him into his lap. "Daniel knows too." The mage made a humming noise in acknowledgement.
YoungSaeng muttered something about being pulled around like a mule, but sat down. "Seems like you know a lot of things and then fail to mention them," he said, scowling at HyunJoong.
"It all works out in the end," HyunJoong grinned, pressing kisses to YoungSaeng's jaw.
"We didn't come to watch them make out, right?" RyeoWook whispered to Zhou Mi, tugging him away.
"Hi!" HyungJoon waved as he and JungMin walked in. "What's going on?"
"We don't know, and those that do know aren't telling," Zhou Mi huffed. "We're waiting on SiWon."
"I hope you two can keep your pants on until SiWon gets here then," JungMin eyed HyunJoong and YoungSaeng with a raised brow. YoungSaeng made an obscene gesture at him but didn't pull away from HyunJoong's kisses.
KyuHyun and YeSung had shown up (the magician instantly snarking at YoungSaeng about the same thing as JungMin) before the King did. When SiWon walked into the room, it was with SooYoung and KyuJong behind him. "Thank you for coming," he smiled at them, heading to the front of the room. "There's an important announcement that needs to be made before we head back to Highport tomorrow."
"What is it?" Zhou Mi asked after he had bowed to SiWon and SooYoung. "I hope everything is okay?"
"Zhou Mi, sometimes you worry too much," KyuJong chuckled softly.
"Everything is fine, Zhou Mi," SiWon chuckled. He was holding papers in his hands when he stopped and turned to face them. He smiled at Mi. "I think it's time I gave something very important back to you...don't you?"
Zhou Mi shared a puzzled look with RyeoWook before looking up at SiWon again. "To me?" he shook his head slightly. "I don't understand."
"Your title, Mi," SiWon chuckled, holding up the unfolded scroll. "I have, right here, the deeds to Shadowrock and it's lands. All we're missing are two things...your signature, and your vow."
SiWon's words had Zhou Mi in shock, swaying a little. Everything he had lost, would be his again. His title, his lands, his family's honor. Trembling, he managed to let go of RyeoWook's arm to step closer to SiWon. Kneeling, he bowed his head to the floor in a formal bow before sitting back up. "Thank you..." he whispered, tears clear in his eyes.
SiWon smiled kindly, stepping forward. He held out one hand to the other man. "The vow, Mi."
"Right.. yes," Zhou Mi nodded, bowing again and sitting back up. "I, Zhou Mi, lord of Shadowrock, vow my fealty to you King SiWon, high ruler of Atlya. I pledge to you as a representative of my people, to serve you faithfully."
"And I, SiWon, 22nd ruler of Atlya, acknowledge one Zhou Mi as Lord of Shadowrock and it's surrounding lands." SiWon's voice echoed through the room. "This oath you will hold until your last day, to serve and protect both your people and your country. You may rise."
Getting back up to his feet, Zhou Mi beamed happily at SiWon, mouthing another thank you as he took the scroll from him. SooYoung held out a pen and Zhou Mi quickly signed his name to the title before handing it back. "Let's hope I don't have to do that again for a very long time."
"Let's hope for never," SiWon smiled at Zhou Mi, clasping Zhou Mi's shoulder and drawing him into an embrace. "Welcome back."
"Thought you could get away from us that easily, Mi?" HyunJoong chuckled, smiling widely.
"Easily?" Zhou Mi laughed dryly, glancing at HyunJoong when he'd pulled away from SiWon's embrace. "Nothing about this experience was easy... and I'll forever be grateful for it."
"Maybe it would be such a bad idea to have lords and ladies live as a commoner for a month or two," YoungSaeng mused. "Might make things a little better for all of us."
"I'm already trying to overturn the kingdom as they know it," SiWon remarked, chuckled. "Let's not give them another reason to want me back in Saryra."
"Wouldn't want to give the nobility too many heart attacks," KyuHyun said, and gave an 'ow' when HyungJoon knocked him on the head.
"Would you even mind going back to Saryra?" SooYoung mused thoughtfully, smiling sweetly at her brother.
"You know what this calls for?" YoungSaeng spoke up, looking to HyunJoong with a grin. "Good Prylean wine."
"You think everything called for wine," HyunJoong snorted, smirking at YoungSaeng.
SiWon slung his arm over SooYoung's shoulder at the remark. "Hush. Does this mean everyone's staying for a drink?"
"You don't think this calls for wine?" YoungSaeng wrinkled his nose at HyunJoong.
"I think we could all use a drink," Zhou Mi nodded, returning to RyeoWook's side. "We've all earned it."
"I do, but I'm from the capital of wine-making, so that doesn't say much," HyunJoong snorted, pecking YoungSaeng on the lips as SiWon called a servant in to bring them Prylean wine.
"Congratulations," RyeoWook smiled widely at Zhou Mi, hugging him.
"Thank you," Zhou Mi breathed, hugging RyeoWook back tightly. "There are so... so many things I want to do for you, to show you," he said, pulling back to smile down at him. "If you'll accept being with a noble that is."
RyeoWook smiled back up at him, fingers cupping Zhou Mi's cheek lightly. "If this noble can accept being with a commoner...I don't ever want to leave," he said softly.
"I love you, I don't care if you're a commoner," Zhou Mi said, leaning down to give him a light kiss before pulling back. "SiWon, could I speak to you for a moment?" he said, looking towards the King.
"Of course," SiWon nodded, smiling. He motioned to a door leading to a connecting room. RyeoWook blinked at them in confusion.
"Come with me, you'll want to hear this too," Zhou Mi said, taking RyeoWook's hand to pull him towards the door. Once SiWon was in and the door was closed, Zhou Mi took a deep breath. "Your Majesty, for the past few months I was living in the home of this man, RyeoWook, who is a healer for the people of the outer ring. He single handedly turned the tide against the plague that ravaged the people. But he's only one man, and the needs of the people are many. I propose we build a hospital, and not just for those that can pay, but for all people."
RyeoWook's mouth fell open, and he looked at Zhou Mi uncomprehendingly. "What?"
SiWon smiled thoughtfully, folding his arms across his chest. "A hospital for the lower ring...that has a nice ring to it. I was already planning to improve the quality of life in the lower ring, especially where the sewers and hygiene are concerned...I guess a hospital would be the next logical step. The funding?"
"Donations," Zhou Mi said, smiling a little. "Public and private. I think considering a hospital will likely be seen by many people from around the country, a portion of tax revenue from each of the landholders be set aside to fund the hospital and staff... and there should be a staff. I don't want RyeoWook to be running himself day and night to care for people. When we return to Highport, I can outline my plan better for you."
"Sounds promising," SiWon nodded. "Inform me as soon as your plan is ready, and we'll talk about it further. I'm very interested in this idea of yours." RyeoWook looked like he didn't know what to say or if he should be protesting or not, sputtering a little before shutting up.
"Of course, thank you," Zhou Mi said, bowing again. "Let's go see if that wine has shown up yet or not," he said, looking at RyeoWook with a wide grin.
Smiling at them both, SiWon left the room first. RyeoWook grabbed Zhou Mi's arm to stop him from leaving, the door closing behind the King.
"What...what was that?" RyeoWook asked, eyes wide in shock.
Zhou Mi blinked a little at him smiling. "That was me making good on the promise I made you," he said, taking up RyeoWook's other hand and holding both of them tightly. "I promised that I would help you if I had my land and title returned to me. This way... the people will still be treated, but you don't have to kill yourself to do it."
RyeoWook opened and closed his mouth, giving several false starts. "I didn't...think...a hospital," he whispered, fingers curling around Zhou Mi's in return. "Can it really be done?"
"It can," Zhou Mi nodded, leaning down to press a light kiss to RyeoWook's forehead. "I'll be there to help every step of the way, and I'll make sure you don't burn yourself out. From now on, you don't live your life based on the needs of others. Unless that other happens to be me."
The healer smiled widely at that, wrapping his arms around Zhou Mi and hugging him tightly. "Thank you Mi," he whispered, not letting go. "Thank you..." He leaned up to kiss the noble firmly.
"You don't have to thank me," Zhou Mi murmured, pulling away from the kiss after a moment. "This is my thanks to you, to give you the life you deserve. No more long hours at someones bedside. No more having to give up your own bed for a patient. You'll be able to do what you want to do, leave the city if you want to and just enjoy life. That's what I want for you."
"You're going to make me cry," RyeoWook laughed, wiping at his eyes lightly as he smiled widely up at Mi. "I don't want to go anywhere without you, ever."
"Same," Zhou Mi smiled, touching RyeoWook's cheek lightly. "We can talk more later about what we want to do.. we should probably rejoin them and have that glass of wine."
Nodding in agreement, RyeoWook leaned up to kiss him again, covering the hand against his cheek with his own. He really didn't know what he would do without Zhou Mi, his smiling noble. No...his smiling boyfriend, because RyeoWook couldn't have cared less what title Zhou Mi had. "Let's go." he pulled back to take Zhou Mi's hand properly, pulling him towards the door.
Fandoms: SS501, Super Junior, JYJ, SNSD, Epik High
Chapter: 39/40
Pairing: HyunJoong/YoungSaeng, RyeoWook/Zhou Mi, HyungJoon/JungMin
Rating: R overall
Warning: AU, violence, angst
Summary: Different lives converge in the city of Highport, where one innocent crime has the potential to destroy a kingdom.
Only a day had passed, but to YoungSaeng it seemed an eternity. Things were going to go back to normal, and that was important. Well, normal was relatively speaking for them, since their lives had been so changed from the past half a year that there was no going back to who they were before this whole mess had started.
It was a prospect that had YoungSaeng a little scared. Leaning up against one of the parapets at the top of a tower, he stared out at the countryside below. Since the return of SiWon, HyunJoong had been locked away behind doors in meetings all day. It was understandable that YoungSaeng wouldn't be allowed in, but that meant for a long boring day for him.
"Hey...what are you doing all the way up here, boss?" HyungJoon leaned out of the door to the tower, seeing him there. "I had to ask almost everyone to find where you were hiding." He stepped out of the stairwell, panting a little from the long flight of stairs as he leaned against the parapet beside YoungSaeng.
"Well I was enjoying some peace and quiet," YoungSaeng said, looking over at him with a smirk. "Just doing some thinking Joon. What are you doing looking for me?"
"Haven't seen you all day, and KyuHyun's locked himself up in a room with either a really good book or YeSung," HyungJoon shook his head, smiling at the older man. "Thinking? About?"
"About what's going to happen to us now," YoungSaeng said, blinking a bit and looking at HyungJoon. "With YeSung? What am I missing?"
"Those two have been spending a lot of time together, haven't you noticed?" HyungJoon chuckled. "I think they're staying in the same room now."
"No, I haven't noticed," YoungSaeng smirked, shaking his head. "That's good though, maybe YeSung can help with KyuHyun's constant crankiness. Didn't see it coming though. What of you and JungMin? Are things better between you?"
"Mhm," HyungJoon nodded, looking down at his hands clasped together on top of the stone. "We talked, and things are better now. It's pretty good. What about you and the knight?"
"That's kind of what I've been thinking about," YoungSaeng sighed. "RyeoWook and I are in kind of the same situation. We're in love with nobles... we don't fit the mold for noble life. I know he's worried about what's going to happen now, as am I. HyunJoong's a knight, I'm a thief. KyuHyun was right about one thing... we're not a good match."
HyungJoon frowned. "Since when do you listen to what KyuHyun says though...I think you're a brilliant match. And if he's gonna let being a noble get between that, he's not the kind of guy you want anyways."
"Doesn't make it any easier, you know that," YoungSaeng said quietly. "I haven't even seen him once since HeeChul was killed. Right after the King addressed the people, he and the other nobles went up to the highest tower and haven't left since. What would it be like for me to be with someone who was never around?"
"It's only been a day, Saeng..." HyungJoon sighed softly, slinging his arm around YoungSaeng's shoulder. "Staying up here alone isn't helping. You know you can always find me if you want company, right? You don't have to make me search the whole fortress first."
"Didn't say I wanted company," YoungSaeng countered, nudging him a little in the ribs. "Thank you though. I know it's only been a day, but now that this is over and HyunJoong and I have no need to work together anymore, has me wondering what it is we're going to do."
"I think everyone's wondering that," HyungJoon mused, wincing at the nudge as he looked out over the land. "You two made an awesome team all this time though. I don't see that going away."
"I'm glad you're on my side at least," YoungSaeng said, closing his eyes and taking in a deep breath. "I'm glad I was wrong about JungMin. He seems to really care for you."
"Yeah," HyungJoon smirked slightly, looking down. "It took me a bit to realize it too. He said he'd shut down the brothel, but well...we'll see. There's too much going on right now."
"He'd shut it down for you?" YoungSaeng blinked at that and looked over at him. "Wow, you really have him under your finger huh?"
"I wouldn't say that," HyungJoon laughed, shaking his head. "He's a good guy. Okay, yeah he's a jerk sometimes, but he is a good guy underneath."
"There's always more than one side to a person," YoungSaeng said. "So why are you up here rather than with him somewhere?"
"Just because we're together doesn't mean we have to be attached to each other every second," HyungJoon blinked. "He's checking out the situation back on the ground, and I was worried about my boss."
"Why would you be worried about me?" YoungSaeng chuckled. "You know I'm a survivor."
"Yes, you're tough, we get that," HyungJoon rolled his eyes, nudging YoungSaeng. "That doesn't mean you aren't a mere mortal along with the rest of us." He touched one hand to his neck, blinked, and chuckled softly as he shook his head. He forgot JungMin still had his dad's luck charm.
"What, are you laughing at me now too?" YoungSaeng scowled, shoving HyungJoon away. "I'm going back downstairs, don't trip and fall over the edge of the wall. It's a long way down."
"I'm not laughing at you," HyungJoon did laugh at that, hooking his arms around YoungSaeng's waist. "Come on~, don't you want to spend time with me?"
Footsteps reached the top of the stairs behind them then. "So, why did you have to pick the tallest structure to hide in again?" HyunJoong panted a little, rubbing his legs.
"Because no one would bother me here," YoungSaeng replied. "Or at least I thought. Go on ahead HyungJoon, we can talk more later."
"Oh fine," HyungJoon chuckled, stepping around HyunJoong to head back down the stairs.
Straightening, HyunJoong walked to YoungSaeng. "You must really not want to be found all the way up here." He wrapped his arms loosely around the other man's waist.
"I thought you were going to be locked behind tall doors the rest of the day," YoungSaeng said, putting his arms around HyunJoong's neck and leaning against him. "You're the only one I wanted to find me."
"Which still begs the question why you're in a tower," HyunJoong chuckled, pressing a kiss to the side of YoungSaeng's head. "I'm sorry I've been missing, there's a lot to figure out."
"Maybe I felt like being a damsel in distress for once," YoungSaeng sniffed. "What all was there to figure out? HeeChul's dead, let's go home."
"You'd be surprised, he left a huge mess for everyone," HyunJoong sighed. "But good news: we should be heading back to Highport within the week."
"And then what?" YoungSaeng asked, pulling back to look into HyunJoong's eyes. "Where do we go from there?"
HyunJoong lifted one hand to brush bangs behind YoungSaeng's ear. "That depends on you. I know I'd like for you to live with me, both in the inner ring and back in Prylea."
"And we both know that isn't entirely practical," YoungSaeng said. "I'm a commoner... a thief at that. What would I do in the inner ring or some castle in Prylea? I wouldn't know what to do with myself."
"You're a talented man YoungSaeng, I don't think you'd find much trouble looking for something to do," HyunJoong's lips quirked. "I just don't want to have to ask you to leave your life in the lower ring behind. Regardless of if you join me in the inner ring or not, I want to support you financially...so I don't have to worry about you getting your hand cut off some day."
YoungSaeng frowned at that. "I like what I do... Hyun I'm not some empty headed noble who can sit and do cross stitch all day. I would never want someone to have to take care of me, that's not who I am."
"I'm not suggesting you do that," HyunJoong sighed, tucking his fingers under YoungSaeng's chin to look into his eyes. "YoungSaeng, I'm worried about you. We can find something else for you, something where I won't spend every single night I'm away worrying you've been caught and will be dead before I can get back."
"You'd be worried about me? What about you?" YoungSaeng said, pulling away. "You'll be leaving me behind to do who knows what, risking your life... You're worried about me, but I'll be just as worried about you, being where I can't help protect you."
HyunJoong looked down at YoungSaeng, exhaling slowly as he looked out towards the mountains. "It would solve so much of our problems if they just let commoners be knights. We could watch each other's backs."
"But they don't, and I can't," YoungSaeng said. "And I wouldn't ask you to give up your life... so what do we do?"
"I don't know," HyunJoong murmured. "Well...I'm not going to be doing anymore knighting until I'm at a hundred percent again...so we have some time to figure it out."
"There's a lot of people in the outer ring that count on me Hyun," YoungSaeng said, looking up at him. "People like RyeoWook who would die if I didn't bring them food, or fuel in the winter. Who'll take care of them now?"
"I don't have those answers," HyunJoong replied. "I don't know the lower ring as well as you do. All I can do is try to make this work to the best of my ability, because the alternative isn't something I want to even consider."
YoungSaeng sighed, hugging his arms as he turned away from HyunJoong. "Now that this is all over, there's a few realities we're going to have to face. One being that our lives don't mesh well together, no matter how much we want them to. I want to be with you, and not just in name, but share my life with you. I just don't know how we're going to do that so we're both happy."
"We'll think of something." HyunJoong looked over at him. Sighing, he pushed away from the wall and stepped closer to YoungSaeng, wrapping his arms around him from behind and resting his chin on YoungSaeng's shoulder. "Neither of us are quitters...I'm not going to start now, are you?"
"Never," YoungSaeng said with a small smile, leaning back against him. "You don't have any meetings to go to for a while do you?"
"There's another one tomorrow around noon, but I'm free for the rest of the evening," HyunJoong murmured, pressing a kiss to YoungSaeng's jaw.
"Then maybe we should find a room to retire in and worry about these things for when they matter?" YoungSaeng said, turning his head slightly so he could look at HyunJoong out of the corner of his eye. "We really haven't had that much time together, just you and I with no problems to worry about."
"Guess we have a lot to make up for," the knight chuckled, smiling at YoungSaeng. He wrapped one arm around YoungSaeng's waist, stepping towards the stairs.
***********************
Everyone was itching to return home, even if the final preparations still hadn't been taken care of, as well as one of their own wasn't yet fit for travel. RyeoWook had examined YooChun again the following day after the incident, and it would still be several more days before he would have the strength to make it down the mountain. Everyone had visited the injured noble, even Zhou Mi. Except for one person.
Taking a deep breath, KyuJong knocked lightly at the door of YooChun's room before opening it and peeking his head in. "You awake?"
YooChun's eyes were closed, but they opened when KyuJong's voice filtered into the room. "Yeah," he murmured, turning his head towards the door. He was under threat of being chained to the bed if he so much as tried to sit up, so he didn't move much.
"Oh good, I didn't want to wake you," KyuJong said, slipping in and closing the door behind him. "Unless you were trying to fall asleep, but it seems like you've been getting more than enough of that lately."
"Not much else to do, besides count bricks," YooChun gave a pained smile, watching the other man. He hadn't seen KyuJong since HeeChul's death, not sure what was going through the other noble's mind. He hadn't thought KyuJong would even visit him. "You look...well."
"You look better than the last time I saw you," KyuJong replied, a bare hint of a smile. "I'm sorry if I haven't come to visit you... I've been really busy..." Shaking his head, he stepped closer to the bed and took one of the chairs to sit down. "No, that's just an excuse. I could have made time to see you, and I didn't."
YooChun's gaze lowered. "I understand. I made a horrible decision, and there's nothing I can do to unmake it. You don't have to pretend to want to be here for my sake, KyuJong."
"I tried to think what I would have done in your position," KyuJong said quietly. "I don't know if I wouldn't have tried to save at least one person if I thought the odds were so high. I just don't understand one thing... why me?"
YooChun looked up at him again. This wasn't exactly how he'd imagined his confession to go, preferring showing up with a bouquet of roses and a composition in hand, but the gods seemed to enjoy playing tricks on him. "Because for as long as I can remember, I've been in love with you," he said quietly.
KyuJong didn't reply right away, his expression unreadable even as he reached out to take one of YooChun's hands in his own. "YooChun... you are a true gentleman. Honest and loyal to a fault. Anyone would be honored to hear a confession from, and I know there's someone out there who will love you truly. But I can't return your feelings."
Exhaling softly, YooChun looked down at the hand holding his own before closing his eyes. He was silent for a long moment. "I had a feeling that was the case. But I had to try anyways," he opened his eyes to give KyuJong a pained smile, eyes slightly glassy.
"I am sorry," KyuJong said, squeezing his hand a little. "Truth be told, if I had that same inclination towards men, you would be my first choice. Right behind HyunJoong," he chuckled. "You're my closest friend YooChun, and I would hate to lose that friendship... because I have some news for you... I wanted you to be the first to know."
YooChun needed a moment to collect himself before he spoke again. "What news would that be?" he asked softly, looking up at KyuJong.
"That I am... betrothed," KyuJong said, smiling sadly at him. "To SooYoung."
Not expecting that, YooChun inhaled deeply, looking away from KyuJong's eyes. After a pause he returned the other man's gaze, slightly strained smile on his lips. "Congratulations. You're still alive, so I'm guessing you already have SiWon's blessings."
"I do," KyuJong nodded. "I want to ask you something, and I don't need an answer right now. But when the time comes, I would be honored if you would stand with me."
Blinking rapidly, YooChun nodded. "It would be my honor to stand with you," he murmured, closing his eyes.
"Thank you," KyuJong said, watching him with sad eyes. It may have not been an appropriate time to discuss it, but KyuJong wasn't one to hold things back or keep secrets. He felt bad about hurting YooChun, but there was only so much he could do about that.
"Sir?" There was another soft knock on the door, Xander poking his head in. "Oh... I'm sorry, I didn't realize you had company. I brought your meal..."
"It's okay Xander, I was just leaving," KyuJong said, squeezing YooChun's hand again before getting to his feet. "Heal quickly," he nodded at YooChun before turning to leave the room.
YooChun opened his eyes once KyuJong was gone, wiping at the tears before they could fall. "Thank you Xander, just set it to the side please," he murmured, looking up at the ceiling and exhaling slowly.
Setting down the tray, Xander frowned slightly as he looked from YooChun to the door and back. "Something wrong sir?"
"No...it was good news," YooChun smiled shakily at the servant, the heartbreak showing in his expression. "KyuJong's going to be married to SooYoung."
"Oh... sir," Xander sighed, sitting down in the vacated seat. "You don't have to pretend with me."
YooChun chuckled softly, wiping at his eyes again. "I'm glad for him...and he's the only noble who SiWon would trust to take care of his sister. He'll made a great prince." His voice cracked, hand falling over his eyes as his face crumpled.
"You just wanted him to be your prince," Xander said, watching YooChun sadly. "I know what it's like to watch someone you love look at someone else. To not even consider you... I know it hurts." Reaching over, he took YooChun's hand. "You know I'm always here for you if you need me."
The noble needed a minute to just let the grief out, crying quietly. Finally the tears slowed, and he wiped at them with his free hand, sniffing.
"I know," he said quietly, deep voice scratchy. "You were the only one who still trusted me...who still believed in me. Thank you Xander." He squeezed the servant's fingers lightly. "I won't forget that."
"They don't know you like I do, and your reasons for doing the things you do," Xander said. "I'll always trust you, and do whatever you need me to do. I'll walk to the shadow world and back for you if you asked."
"I wouldn't ask you to do that," YooChun chuckled tiredly at that, smiling slightly at the other man. "I'd rather have you here beside me."
"Nowhere else I'd rather be," Xander said, returning the smile. "If you pardon me sir, I think you're a better catch than any princess. Lord KyuJong missed out on something special."
"Now I know you're just trying to make me feel better." YooChun squeezed Xander's hand lightly. "I think I can eat now...would you help me sit up? The healer nearly took my ear off last time I tried myself."
"As well he should," Xander said, immediately getting up to help YooChun sit up. Making sure there were enough pillows to prop him up and he was comfortable, Xander returned with the tray of food. "You'll be up and out of this bed in no time if you follow the healer's orders."
"Can't wait for that...I don't know how HyunJoong handles it, being stabbed is a pain." YooChun leaned back against the pillows gratefully.
"You're lucky to be alive sir, pain is good," Xander said, placing the tray on YooChun's lap and sitting down on the side of the bed.
"I know," YooChun sighed softly. "What have I missed? I don't hear much in here." He picked up the chopsticks, starting to eat slowly.
"Nothing interesting," Xander said, sighing morosely. "The Lords were locked away in their meeting, YeSung seems to have disappeared completely, and the thieves keep hiding from everyone."
"Not really surprised by any of those...except for YeSung, where's he gone to?" YooChun blinked at his servant.
"Him and that hand magician, KyuHyun," Xander said, giving YooChun a look. "They're staying in the room next to mine and you wouldn't believe the noises I hear at all times of the day."
Surprised, YooChun choked out a laugh and winced at the pain in his chest. "Well...didn't see that one coming. From what I remember, they were barely talking to each other in HyunJoong's manor without getting into arguments."
"Some people are like that, fighting like cats and dogs one minute, then humping like rabbits the next," Xander shrugged. "They'll be back to fighting in a week."
************************
The day before they were scheduled to leave for Highport, SiWon left the meeting with the lords early and requested for YoungSaeng's presence.
He was waiting for the thief by Shadowrock's gardens, hands clasped behind his back and easy smile on his face. The King nodded in thanks to the servant who had found the elusive thief, and they were left alone. Guards were stationed at various points around the garden, keeping an eye on the young King, but they were given their space without chance of eavesdropping.
"Thank you for joining me on such short notice, YoungSaeng. I haven't had a chance to speak with you yet, and I apologize."
YoungSaeng bowed a little awkwardly towards him. Having had cups of ale with the man, YoungSaeng didn't see him as the King, but knew he had to bow anyway. "No need for apologies... m'lord. You're a busy man."
SiWon chuckled softly. "You don't have to be so formal to me, YoungSaeng. Who's here to notice?" He motioned with one hand for YoungSaeng to walk with him.
"The guards, the people up there," YoungSaeng pointed towards the castle where he knew more than one noble was watching the two talk. He did fall into step with the King though, glancing over at him. "Was something on your mind?"
"They can't listen in to us at this distance...I've had Daniel be sure of that," SiWon smiled, hands folding into the sleeves of his robes. Contrary to when they'd been on the battlefield, and he'd worn the same garments as everyone else, now he was dressed as the King of Atlya should be. "I've been toying with the idea of beginning something in Highport on our return, and thought you would be the best person to consult."
He looked up at the mountains surrounding them. "During my time in Saryra, I've seen what they call 'Rider' groups...squads of commoner and merchant-class men and women trained as first-response teams for any problems around the Empire. The army itself is too large and clumsy for certain operations, and my knights are stretched thin across the kingdom. Quite frankly, we're not ready for a true invasion: the luck god was smiling on us when Han Geng decided to help rather than follow through with the war."
SiWon looked at YoungSaeng beside him. "Han Geng was kind enough to let me see how the Riders work: they're trained on Palace grounds, near where pages are trained for knighthood. Knights and Riders compliment each other. I want to begin a Rider class in Atlya...but I'll be the first to admit I don't know my own people as well as I should. So I've come to ask your opinion. HyunJoong has told me you take care of those in the lower ring as if you were their king."
YoungSaeng blinked, nearly stumbling over a root in the path. "King? No, I would never, never presume... I just took care of people, got them food and stuff. I wasn't trying to... you have to believe me," he sputtered out.
Blinking, SiWon barked out a laugh and shook his head. "Relax, friend. I'm not upset...in fact, quite the opposite." He clapped one hand lightly on YoungSaeng's shoulder. "If even a fraction of Atlyans are like you...it is my honor to be your King."
"Oh... okay," YoungSaeng breathed a sigh of relief. "Apologies, thought I was in trouble and you were leading me to the gallows or something," he said with a nervous laugh. "What were you saying?"
"Rider groups, YoungSaeng." SiWon smiled patiently. "Would those in the lower ring be interested in joining? Teachers would have to be found of course. It is a nicely paid position, but beyond the pay, are there any you know who would seriously consider joining such a group? Consider it a Knight class open to all, not just nobility."
"It depends," YoungSaeng frowned, considering that. He knew a few that would want to, but anyone in the lower ring would be suspicious of working for the crown. "If you want people to join, I think conditions for those in the lower ring need to be improved. You'll get all the low lives and thugs who'll join for the coin, but they wouldn't be trustworthy."
"No," SiWon shook his head. "That isn't my intention." He sighed softly. "I'm well aware that my father and grandfather may have been great rulers, but they did a disservice to many living under the noble class. I want to fix things - and it's completely understandable if you won't take my word for it now. But I want to be the King to look after all my citizens, not just the ones with the most coin."
"Then you would be a greater King than your ancestors," YoungSaeng said. "Providing a way for the children to become more than peasants and beggars is something a great King would do. It will take time set up what it is you're considering, but I think it can be done."
"Good," SiWon smiled softly at that. "Then I have one more thing to say. I spoke briefly with a few others about the Riders beforehand." His eyes danced. "Daniel, HyunJoong, Han Geng... HyunJoong recommended someone who would be a strong, dependable addition to the Rider group once it is formed. He's already proven he can outpace a Knight, and think quick on his feet. Of course he would probably have to be paired with a Knight for a while until more Riders are trained, but that is of course entirely up to him."
"...Okay," YoungSaeng blinked in confusion. "Why are you...?" he started to question why he was being told when something clicked. "Wait, HyunJoong recommended... I'm going to kill him."
"Please don't, now I won't even be able to feign ignorance," SiWon chuckled, smiling at YoungSaeng. "Something to ponder over. If you'll excuse me, I need to return to the meeting...can't leave them alone too long or nothing will get done today."
YoungSaeng inclined his head, watching SiWon walk away for a moment before he started after him. "Okay, I'll do it, but I have one condition."
SiWon stopped and turned to face the thief. "And what would that be?"
"HeeChul owed me and my men money," YoungSaeng said, lifting his chin a little. "I'm sure you know why, but I want that payment we're owed."
The King frowned lightly in thought at that. "I do know why...I'm sure you can understand why I'd be hesitant to reward one for the dagger that killed my father."
YoungSaeng winced, looking away. "You know that wasn't what we had in mind when we took the job," he said quietly. "When we found out it is was because of us that King had been killed, we... I vowed to set it right. To cut that assholes throat and take every coin he had on him."
"I know. And I find it very noble of you to want to do so." SiWon rested his hands lightly on YoungSaeng's shoulders. "I will see to it you're reimbursed for your struggles in some way...but don't ask me to reward you for my father's death, please."
Lowering his eyes, YoungSaeng nodded. "Of course, I'm sorry I demanded that of you, it was thoughtless. I've spent my whole life fighting to get every copper I could." Frowning, he looked back up at SiWon again. "That money was to help HyungJoon's family... if you could just help them, that's all I'll ever ask of you."
The sad look on SiWon's face shifted into a soft smile as he looked down at YoungSaeng. "That is something I can do. You have my word." He squeezed YoungSaeng's shoulders before letting go.
"Thank you," YoungSaeng bowed again, a proper bow to his King. "I'll take my leave now, and go beat up a knight... except you didn't hear that," he winced, bowing again as he backed away.
"Hear what?" SiWon laughed, shaking his head. "Rest well tonight YoungSaeng, we leave for Highport in the morning."
"You as well, m'lord," YoungSaeng grinned before turning and heading back towards the castle.
**********************************
It was nearing dusk when SiWon called them all together again to one of the formal chambers in the castle. It was just their small group that had grown close over the past few weeks, none of the other nobility or even Han Geng though he and SiWon had seemed inseparable lately.
"What's this about?" RyeoWook asked Zhou Mi quietly as they stepped into the room, seeing a few of the others already there. SiWon was not.
"No idea," Zhou Mi said, glancing around the room. "I haven't seen this room in... well, years. My father used to use this as his study."
"A study?" RyeoWook blinked, looking around as well.
"Hey," HyunJoong quirked a smile at them, sitting with his back to a wall. "His Majesty will be here soon. Where've you two been hiding?"
"If we told you, then you could find us," Zhou Mi chuckled. "I could ask the same of you, but I probably don't want to hear any of the details."
"No, and RyeoWook doesn't either," YoungSaeng said as he approached where they were standing. "Why are we here?" he asked HyunJoong.
"You'll see as soon as SiWon gets here," HyunJoong smirked, hands out for YoungSaeng.
"So...you already know," RyeoWook frowned.
"Of course I do," HyunJoong snagged YoungSaeng and tried to pull him into his lap. "Daniel knows too." The mage made a humming noise in acknowledgement.
YoungSaeng muttered something about being pulled around like a mule, but sat down. "Seems like you know a lot of things and then fail to mention them," he said, scowling at HyunJoong.
"It all works out in the end," HyunJoong grinned, pressing kisses to YoungSaeng's jaw.
"We didn't come to watch them make out, right?" RyeoWook whispered to Zhou Mi, tugging him away.
"Hi!" HyungJoon waved as he and JungMin walked in. "What's going on?"
"We don't know, and those that do know aren't telling," Zhou Mi huffed. "We're waiting on SiWon."
"I hope you two can keep your pants on until SiWon gets here then," JungMin eyed HyunJoong and YoungSaeng with a raised brow. YoungSaeng made an obscene gesture at him but didn't pull away from HyunJoong's kisses.
KyuHyun and YeSung had shown up (the magician instantly snarking at YoungSaeng about the same thing as JungMin) before the King did. When SiWon walked into the room, it was with SooYoung and KyuJong behind him. "Thank you for coming," he smiled at them, heading to the front of the room. "There's an important announcement that needs to be made before we head back to Highport tomorrow."
"What is it?" Zhou Mi asked after he had bowed to SiWon and SooYoung. "I hope everything is okay?"
"Zhou Mi, sometimes you worry too much," KyuJong chuckled softly.
"Everything is fine, Zhou Mi," SiWon chuckled. He was holding papers in his hands when he stopped and turned to face them. He smiled at Mi. "I think it's time I gave something very important back to you...don't you?"
Zhou Mi shared a puzzled look with RyeoWook before looking up at SiWon again. "To me?" he shook his head slightly. "I don't understand."
"Your title, Mi," SiWon chuckled, holding up the unfolded scroll. "I have, right here, the deeds to Shadowrock and it's lands. All we're missing are two things...your signature, and your vow."
SiWon's words had Zhou Mi in shock, swaying a little. Everything he had lost, would be his again. His title, his lands, his family's honor. Trembling, he managed to let go of RyeoWook's arm to step closer to SiWon. Kneeling, he bowed his head to the floor in a formal bow before sitting back up. "Thank you..." he whispered, tears clear in his eyes.
SiWon smiled kindly, stepping forward. He held out one hand to the other man. "The vow, Mi."
"Right.. yes," Zhou Mi nodded, bowing again and sitting back up. "I, Zhou Mi, lord of Shadowrock, vow my fealty to you King SiWon, high ruler of Atlya. I pledge to you as a representative of my people, to serve you faithfully."
"And I, SiWon, 22nd ruler of Atlya, acknowledge one Zhou Mi as Lord of Shadowrock and it's surrounding lands." SiWon's voice echoed through the room. "This oath you will hold until your last day, to serve and protect both your people and your country. You may rise."
Getting back up to his feet, Zhou Mi beamed happily at SiWon, mouthing another thank you as he took the scroll from him. SooYoung held out a pen and Zhou Mi quickly signed his name to the title before handing it back. "Let's hope I don't have to do that again for a very long time."
"Let's hope for never," SiWon smiled at Zhou Mi, clasping Zhou Mi's shoulder and drawing him into an embrace. "Welcome back."
"Thought you could get away from us that easily, Mi?" HyunJoong chuckled, smiling widely.
"Easily?" Zhou Mi laughed dryly, glancing at HyunJoong when he'd pulled away from SiWon's embrace. "Nothing about this experience was easy... and I'll forever be grateful for it."
"Maybe it would be such a bad idea to have lords and ladies live as a commoner for a month or two," YoungSaeng mused. "Might make things a little better for all of us."
"I'm already trying to overturn the kingdom as they know it," SiWon remarked, chuckled. "Let's not give them another reason to want me back in Saryra."
"Wouldn't want to give the nobility too many heart attacks," KyuHyun said, and gave an 'ow' when HyungJoon knocked him on the head.
"Would you even mind going back to Saryra?" SooYoung mused thoughtfully, smiling sweetly at her brother.
"You know what this calls for?" YoungSaeng spoke up, looking to HyunJoong with a grin. "Good Prylean wine."
"You think everything called for wine," HyunJoong snorted, smirking at YoungSaeng.
SiWon slung his arm over SooYoung's shoulder at the remark. "Hush. Does this mean everyone's staying for a drink?"
"You don't think this calls for wine?" YoungSaeng wrinkled his nose at HyunJoong.
"I think we could all use a drink," Zhou Mi nodded, returning to RyeoWook's side. "We've all earned it."
"I do, but I'm from the capital of wine-making, so that doesn't say much," HyunJoong snorted, pecking YoungSaeng on the lips as SiWon called a servant in to bring them Prylean wine.
"Congratulations," RyeoWook smiled widely at Zhou Mi, hugging him.
"Thank you," Zhou Mi breathed, hugging RyeoWook back tightly. "There are so... so many things I want to do for you, to show you," he said, pulling back to smile down at him. "If you'll accept being with a noble that is."
RyeoWook smiled back up at him, fingers cupping Zhou Mi's cheek lightly. "If this noble can accept being with a commoner...I don't ever want to leave," he said softly.
"I love you, I don't care if you're a commoner," Zhou Mi said, leaning down to give him a light kiss before pulling back. "SiWon, could I speak to you for a moment?" he said, looking towards the King.
"Of course," SiWon nodded, smiling. He motioned to a door leading to a connecting room. RyeoWook blinked at them in confusion.
"Come with me, you'll want to hear this too," Zhou Mi said, taking RyeoWook's hand to pull him towards the door. Once SiWon was in and the door was closed, Zhou Mi took a deep breath. "Your Majesty, for the past few months I was living in the home of this man, RyeoWook, who is a healer for the people of the outer ring. He single handedly turned the tide against the plague that ravaged the people. But he's only one man, and the needs of the people are many. I propose we build a hospital, and not just for those that can pay, but for all people."
RyeoWook's mouth fell open, and he looked at Zhou Mi uncomprehendingly. "What?"
SiWon smiled thoughtfully, folding his arms across his chest. "A hospital for the lower ring...that has a nice ring to it. I was already planning to improve the quality of life in the lower ring, especially where the sewers and hygiene are concerned...I guess a hospital would be the next logical step. The funding?"
"Donations," Zhou Mi said, smiling a little. "Public and private. I think considering a hospital will likely be seen by many people from around the country, a portion of tax revenue from each of the landholders be set aside to fund the hospital and staff... and there should be a staff. I don't want RyeoWook to be running himself day and night to care for people. When we return to Highport, I can outline my plan better for you."
"Sounds promising," SiWon nodded. "Inform me as soon as your plan is ready, and we'll talk about it further. I'm very interested in this idea of yours." RyeoWook looked like he didn't know what to say or if he should be protesting or not, sputtering a little before shutting up.
"Of course, thank you," Zhou Mi said, bowing again. "Let's go see if that wine has shown up yet or not," he said, looking at RyeoWook with a wide grin.
Smiling at them both, SiWon left the room first. RyeoWook grabbed Zhou Mi's arm to stop him from leaving, the door closing behind the King.
"What...what was that?" RyeoWook asked, eyes wide in shock.
Zhou Mi blinked a little at him smiling. "That was me making good on the promise I made you," he said, taking up RyeoWook's other hand and holding both of them tightly. "I promised that I would help you if I had my land and title returned to me. This way... the people will still be treated, but you don't have to kill yourself to do it."
RyeoWook opened and closed his mouth, giving several false starts. "I didn't...think...a hospital," he whispered, fingers curling around Zhou Mi's in return. "Can it really be done?"
"It can," Zhou Mi nodded, leaning down to press a light kiss to RyeoWook's forehead. "I'll be there to help every step of the way, and I'll make sure you don't burn yourself out. From now on, you don't live your life based on the needs of others. Unless that other happens to be me."
The healer smiled widely at that, wrapping his arms around Zhou Mi and hugging him tightly. "Thank you Mi," he whispered, not letting go. "Thank you..." He leaned up to kiss the noble firmly.
"You don't have to thank me," Zhou Mi murmured, pulling away from the kiss after a moment. "This is my thanks to you, to give you the life you deserve. No more long hours at someones bedside. No more having to give up your own bed for a patient. You'll be able to do what you want to do, leave the city if you want to and just enjoy life. That's what I want for you."
"You're going to make me cry," RyeoWook laughed, wiping at his eyes lightly as he smiled widely up at Mi. "I don't want to go anywhere without you, ever."
"Same," Zhou Mi smiled, touching RyeoWook's cheek lightly. "We can talk more later about what we want to do.. we should probably rejoin them and have that glass of wine."
Nodding in agreement, RyeoWook leaned up to kiss him again, covering the hand against his cheek with his own. He really didn't know what he would do without Zhou Mi, his smiling noble. No...his smiling boyfriend, because RyeoWook couldn't have cared less what title Zhou Mi had. "Let's go." he pulled back to take Zhou Mi's hand properly, pulling him towards the door.