I Love You, Your Majesty 8/10
Title: I Love You, Your Majesty
Chapter: 8/10
>> Character List ||| Chp: 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6a | 6b | 7 | 8 | 9a | 9b | 10
Genre: AU, Romance, Various
Rating: PG-13
Pairing: 2min, Onew/OC, JongKey
Disclaimer: I only own the story. :D
Summary: Once upon a time, there lived two lovable princes; Prince Onew and Prince Taemin. Everyone respects and looks up to them, they were the perfect role models. But really, there's more to them than just being Princes. (Omfg I seriously fail at giving summary ._.)
A/N: Before you read this chapter, I'd like to explain myself first (lol), I'm a fan of B2ST and (although I don't exactly fangirl over Sulli), I didn't mean anything bad by making them the bad characters. Yes, I already updated the character list. They actually have 'reasons' why they are bad in this chapter... (:
***
C H A P T E R E I G H T
Yoonhae would like to think that she has no more feelings for Minho. And in all honesty, no, she doesn’t love him that way anymore.
It’s just that she has spent more than half of her life looking after him and caring for him, and just the thought of her beloved ones being in danger made her heart dropped a few cm and she just wanted him to be safe, really.
Not to mention that Jinki’s important person - his brother Taemin, is in danger too.
“There are seven of them.” Jonghyun stated. They were both hiding on a tree and watching as the five men entered their once called ‘house’.
“Jjong, I have a plan.” Yoonhae proposed. “We can’t waste anymore time so please listen carefully.”
-*-
Taemin shuddered from head to toe. His hand sneakily grabbed the metal pipe he managed to find beforehand as a small attempt of self-protection. His other hand was holding onto Minho shakily. He thought about how the assistant always protected him and it was time for him to somewhat pay back.
The seven men were starting to ransack the whole house, stealing and grabbing anything that has some values - not that there were many since the house has been deserted for quite some time. For every single sound of movements, Taemin couldn’t help wincing and flinching.
He was extremely scared.
Minho frowned in his unconscious state and Taemin frowned along. He brought his hand to massage Minho’s temple tenderly, hoping it would soothe the pain. The tall man’s temperature was still increasing gradually.
I need to get him back to the castle. He’s going to die at this rate. Taemin thought. But how?
His train of thoughts was cut abruptly as a hand snatched his arm and tugged him harshly before yanking him to the centre of the room. Taemin yelped as his body hit the cold floor.
“Look what we found here.” Junhyung smirked. “It’s the little prince and his dying assistant.”
“No, stay away from Minho!” Taemin swung his ‘weapon’ towards them.
“Whoa, chill, prince.” Junhyung made a mocking face, “that’s a dangerous weapon you have there.”
Someone knocked Taemin from the back and the prince fell onto the floor clutching his shoulder. The metal pipe he was holding dropped onto the floor with a loud, echoing noise.
“Good job, Yoseob… Let’s tie the prince up and bring him back to the base.”
“And the assistant?”
“He’s poisoned anyway, let him die slowly and painfully.” Junhyung instructed.
Taemin struggled as Yoseob attempted to bind him with a rope and that earned him a punch in the face.
“Stay still, won’t you?” Yoseob grumbled. Taemin soon recognized him as the teenager who led him to the wrong place.
Taemin inhaled a great amount of air before shouting on top of his lungs.
“HEEEEEEELPPPPP! MURDERER! RAPIST! HELPPPPPPPPPPP!!!!!!!!”
“Yah, shut up!” Yoseob cupped Taemin’s mouth harshly, “I’m not a rapist! Yah!”
Taemin bit Yoseob’s hand until it bled. Shocked, Yoseob let out a cry of pain before glaring at him. “You bit me!”
“HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLPPPPPPPPPPPPPP!” Taemin screamed.
A loud crash snapped all their attentions - causing the men and Taemin to look towards the source. Someone has broken the front door and Taemin felt like he could thank all the Gods in the universe upon seeing who it was.
“Let go of the prince.” Yoonhae spoke with authority, narrowing her eyes at the hooligans.
“Whoa, now they sent a female warrior.” Junhyung made fun. “I know who you are. You’re the oldest prince’s assistant. This is getting more and more interesting.”
“Which part of my words do you not understand?” Yoonhae asked calmly.
She slowly stepped into the house while all of the men (except Yoseob) began creeping towards her. They didn’t exchange words, just staring at each other, waiting for someone to make a move.
Jonghyun made use of the situation to tiptoe his way towards the table, where Minho was. He quickly examined Minho in silence, and was glad that Minho’s condition was not as bad as he thought it would be. He lifted the assistant quietly - the gang still didn’t know that Yoonhae wasn’t alone.
Yoonhae caught a glimpse of Jonghyun’s blonde hair and knew that Minho was safe then. She only needed to get to Taemin and then they could flee.
“The man who carried a rifle from the other carnival… Was he one of you?” Yoonhae questioned, not really expecting any of them to answer.
“Ooh… You mean Hyunseung? Yes he’s one of us… I have no idea why is he so stupid, letting you all catch him just like that.” Junhyung replied casually, as if he didn’t care if someone killed his allies, “he better figures out how to save himself before he gets executed.”
“Why don’t you figure out how to save yourselves then.” Yoonhae finally stopped moving around and got into a fighting stance.
“Hm. You mind your own business.” Junhyung smirked.
A fight broke then - six versus one - and Taemin couldn’t help squirming again as Yoseob began tying him.
“Noona!” Taemin shouted. “Be careful, don’t hurt yourself… Yah! Let go you weird person!”
“Weird? Why am I weird?!” Yoseob pouted, offended. “You called me a murderer, a rapist, bit me and now you said I’m weird?!”
“Let me go! Let me go!” Taemin struggled again.
“Aish, don’t make me punch you aga-“ Just then, someone punched Yoseob. Taemin looked up and his face brightened considerably as he saw Jonghyun grinning on him, Minho slumped on his shoulder.
“You okay, Prince?”
“Jonghyun-ssi!”
“Okay let’s continue our dramatic reunion when we see Key later. He’s the drama queen and we can’t snatch the role from him.” Jonghyun grabbed Taemin with his free hand and helped the prince stand up. “Let’s go!”
Taemin followed Jonghyun running towards the door. Junhyung noticed the three trying to escape and signaled to his men to divide themselves - some handling Yoonhae and some trying to stop them.
“Oh no you don’t.” Jonghyun kicked one of their stomachs and he tried to touch Taemin, “Don’t you know it’s rude to touch pretty women?!”
“Jonghyun-ssi, I’m a man!”
“But you are pretty!”
Taemin eyed Jonghyun in disbelief. How could someone be so playful and calm when faced by this kind of situation was beyond him.
In a matter of seconds, Yoonhae managed to get to them.
“Go, get out of here, quick.” Yoonhae pushed Taemin towards the door. Jonghyun was moving once again - occasionally kicking and punching the approaching bad people. Yoonhae stuck by Taemin’s side, fighting most of the men while pushing Taemin forward and protecting him.
Jonghyun got onto the horse with Minho in front of him. He hugged the limp Minho to make sure that the taller one wouldn’t fall off the horse - and then without hesitation he took off.
“Get on the horse, Your Majesty!” Yoonhae brought the men down two at a time. Four of them were unconscious - the only ones standing were Yoseob, Junhyung, and another man she didn’t know the name of. “Now!”
Taemin hastily scrambled his way to the horse and got on it. He turned back to ask for Yoonhae to climb on but she suddenly slapped the horse’s backside.
The horse let out a high-pitched neigh before running away. Taemin’s eyes widened as he realized what was going on.
“Don’t you turn back for me, Prince!” Yoonhae shouted after him, “See you at the castle!”
-*-
“Penny for your thoughts, Prince Onew?”
Jinki blinked and cleared his throat, offering his kind smile to Princess Victoria. “I’m sorry, I was spacing out, wasn’t I?”
“Well, you sort of tuned out on me but it’s okay… Is something bothering you?” She returned his smile sincerely.
“No, it’s nothing big, don’t worry.” Jinki led her towards the dance floor. “May I have the honor?”
“We’re already heading there, aren’t we?” Victoria chuckled, “I’m the one who’s honored, getting the chance to dance with the one and only handsome Prince Onew.”
“You flatter me, Princess.” Jinki kissed the back of Victoria’s hand.
The guests of the ball eyed the prince and princess with envy. They both made a perfect couple to their eyes.
“I think this is the first time I’ve seen the Prince with another woman other than Lady Yoonhae.” Krystal commented.
“Same here.” Seohyun - Taemin’s tutor nodded. She took a glass of wine from Krystal’s tray. “And where is Prince Taemin and Sir Choi?”
“They haven’t got back yet, Lady Seohyun.” Krystal sighed, “I’m really afraid that something bad happened to them.”
“Don’t worry… I’m sure they can take care of themselves.” Seohyun gulped.
“Oh you should have been to the kitchen though.” Krystal sulked. “While everyone is afraid and worrying for their well being, the maids of this castles have been squealing in delight and creating their own stories about how Prince Taemin and Lord Choi are out to elope. They are even fantasizing about them going to another kingdom to start a life as commoners and get married!”
“That’s… interesting.” Seohyun raised an eyebrow.
“I know right.”
-*-
“Jonghyun-ssi! Jonghyun-ssi!” Taemin called. Their horses were running in a fast speed - Taemin had to hold on tightly in order not to fall, “Yoonhae Noona is behi-“
“I know, Prince Taemin, that was the plan.” Jonghyun replied without turning to look. He was gritting his teeth. That girl is going to be the death of me one day.
“W-What if something happened to her?” Taemin gulped.
“If I were you, I’d start worrying about what would happen to those guys instead.” Jonghyun chuckled. “And we’re here!”
As their horses made a turn around the corner, the castle was standing a few meters before them. Taemin never felt so grateful at the sight of the castle before.
They both stopped at the front gate where Kyuhyun was already anticipating them. “Your Majesty! I’m glad you are all right!”
“Please call for the castle’s physician!” Taemin requested, “And send a few men down to the alleys around the South of the town to find Lady Yoonhae.”
“At once, milord!” Kyuhyun immediately instructed his men to move. Only then did Taemin got off his horse and helped Jonghyun with Minho.
“Taemin…” Minho slurred.
“I’m here. You’re going to be okay, Minho.” Taemin spoke. Jonghyun whistled.
“Say, do you have some herbs in this castle?”
“There’s a herb garden next to the elite horses’ stable.” Taemin replied, puzzled.
“Okay. So get the physician to check on him and treat his wound, but tell him not to give Minho any painkillers or medicine to drink because that won’t cure him.” Jonghyun told Taemin. “I will join you at Minho’s room in thirty minutes.”
Jonghyun then took both horses towards the stable in hurry. Taemin - who was supporting Minho - watched Jonghyun’s back view, wondering what was the man up to.
“I’ll give you a hand.” Kyuhyun offered, and then Taemin’s attention was back on Minho once again.
-*-
“I didn’t know that this kingdom has three princes.” Sulli commented.
Of course you didn’t know… You’re an airhead. Kibum rolled his eyes mentally. “Um, yes, originally it’s only my cousins. I’d officially be a prince only tomorrow after the ceremony.”
“Oh, that’s wonderful. I’ll ask my sister if we can both stay behind to watch the important event!” Sulli clapped her hand excitedly.
NO. “Hmm, that’s a good idea. But wouldn’t you and your sister be missed by the King?”
“Oh, of course not. Our father is extremely pleased that we are maintaining the close relationship between the two countries.” Sulli chuckled. “I’m glad I met you, Prince Key.”
“Same here.” NOT. Key faked a smile.
“W-Where is Prince Taemin, anyway?” Sulli shyly questioned - and Kibum, having the sharp pair of eyes, didn’t miss the faint blush appearing on her cheeks.
“He’s currently handling some documents to prepare for an upcoming event.” Kibum lied smoothly. He and Jinki had decided to use the line to encounter such question for the night. “He said he’ll be dropping by before the ball ends…” Hopefully he comes back before the ball ends, though. He added mentally.
“Oh… Okay.” Sulli seemed disappointed. “I was really looking forward to meet him…”
Someone’s got the hots for my Taemin baby. Kibum thought, the castle’s maids are not going to be happy if they discovered that this princess is a ‘competition’ in their forbidden love scenario.
“You seem pretty close with Ta- I mean, Prince Taemin.” Kibum cleared his throat.
“But that’s just to be expected, right?” Sulli smiled sweetly (making Key wince inwardly) “I mean, my dad said to get to know my future fiancé better…”
“WHAT?”
Kibum immediately closed his mouth with his right hand. Sulli blinked in shock before breaking into a giggling fit.
“Well, I wasn’t supposed to leak that yet, but yes, my father is planning to arrange a meeting between Prince Taemin and I soon.” Sulli explained, “I suppose the dukes haven’t informed the princes yet?”
Kibum gaped at the princess for a moment before snapping out of it.
What in the name of Heaven - “No, they haven’t said a word.” Kibum tried to regain his composure but failing at it - “Y-You’re really lucky.”
“I know Prince Taemin is a great man. He looks stunningly adorable too!” Sulli was wearing a dreamy expression.
Kibum’s hatred on this lady just grew ten times worst.
-*-
Taemin didn’t even bother changing out of his dirty clothes. Once the physician entered Taemin’s room (they decided to put Minho there because Taemin insisted that he wanted to take care of Minho through the night), the young prince immediately asked him to treat Minho. Taemin himself has scratches here and there, but he stubbornly refused to be checked up first.
“Minho is dying, please treat his arm.” Taemin told the old man. The physician gave in and rushed towards the bed, where Minho was lying there panting.
“We will need to get him change into a clean set of clothes.” The physician said, “He’s covered with dusts and perspiration… He might get infected by bacteria.”
Taemin hastily ran to his cupboard and grabbed the biggest shirt he has before tossing it to the physician. He wasn’t even aware that the old man was now taking off Minho’s clothes. The young prince would probably blush his face off if Minho weren’t dying then.
Once Minho was cleaned (they cleaned him up with a warm wet towel), the physician disinfected and treated his arm. Taemin had never been a fan of blood (how was he coping so far, he couldn’t comprehend) but he stayed by Minho’s side throughout, hoping more than anything he could heal people with some magic or some sort. Obviously he was just a normal human so it was impossible.
“I’ve done what I could. Do you want me to prescribe him with pain killers?”
“No.” Taemin shook his head. “Jonghyun-ssi said not to give him any medicine to drink.”
“Who is Jonghyun? Wait.” The physician’s eyes widened. “You mean Kim Jonghyun is in this castle?”
“Well how do you know him? And yes, he’s here.” Taemin’s curiosity built up.
“He’s quite a well-known inventor, Your Majesty.” The physician announced. “Not as well known as some others, but he is special because he invented not only helpful tools and machines, but he makes medicines as well. He’s a genius at his age and physician like me often buy his self-made medicine at a very high price. They are very valuable and efficient to treat sickness or wounds.”
Taemin’s eyes widened. That dinosaur-like man who sneaked into his Kibum hyung’s bedroom every night was that great?
“I’m sure he’ll know better medicine to give Sir Choi.” The physician smiled sincerely and packed up. “I’ll take my leave then. Please summon me again if there’s anything…”
“Thank you.” Taemin followed the physician to the door before sending him off.
Few minutes later, Jonghyun entered the room with his hand holding a paper bag. Taemin simply eyed him and smiled a bit before returning his attention to wiping Minho’s face with a small towel.
“I know you are worried about him.” Jonghyun sat next to Taemin, “but if I were you I would go to the ball right now.”
“I can’t leave him-“
“Prince Taemin.” Jonghyun emphasized, “I’m sorry, your kingdom comes first. Besides, I’ll be here to look after him. I won’t let my childhood friend die, don’t worry.”
“Jonghyun-ssi…” Taemin’s face softened - a slight guilt evident. “I’m sorry.”
“Don’t apologize, and call me hyung.” Jonghyun grinned. “And by the way, you are a great prince. You should be more confident about yourself.”
Taemin’s cheeks flushed. “T-Thank you.”
The young prince then gave Jonghyun a big, warm smile before getting up from his seat. “I’ll go get changed now and go to the hall… Please look after Minho.”
“Of course, milord.” Jonghyun casually waved his hand off. Taemin rushed towards the bathroom and started to groom himself quickly before going to the ball.
-*-
“I can’t believe you just did that. You are one brave girl.” Junhyung stared at Yoonhae in disbelief. “You’re not scared being left behind with three guys? We obviously outnumber you.”
“So?” Yoonhae wiped the side of her lip. “Doesn’t mean I can’t win.”
“That’s right.” Junhyung smirked. “Except that you are not armed with a weapon, but we are.”
Junhyung took out a small pistol and aimed at her. Yoonhae licked her dry lips. This was something she had already predicted.
“I wouldn’t shoot if I were you.” Yoonhae raised her eyebrow. “People might start coming and you’ll get arrested.”
“No. We’ll run fast enough for them not to catch us.”
“And your unconscious subordinates?”
“Oh. May be they’ll get caught?”
“You don’t care about your men, do you?”
“Care?” Junhyung cocked his weapon, “You mean you castle people know what does care mean? You don’t even care about us, why use such word now?”
Yoonhae gave him a confused look, “What do you mean?”
“Maybe you people will start caring if one of you died.” Junhyung scoffed. Yoseob gave him a frightened look.
“H-Hyung, you are not going to-“
“SHUT UP, YOSEOB. I DIDN’T ASK YOU TO INTERFERE.” Junhyung shouted, his eyes filled with anger and - an emotion Yoonhae interpreted as - pain.
“So long, Mistress.”
Yoonhae’s eyes widened as Junhyung pulled the trigger off.
-*-
The glass in Jinki’s hand accidentally slipped off and shattered on the ground. Jinki stared at it - his heart suddenly felt really uneasy.
“Oh my goodness, are you all right?” Victoria quickly tugged on Jinki’s arm, ushering him to step away from the mess. Krystal came rushing to clean up after the broken glasses and mopped the spilled wine.
“Thank God you didn’t dirty your suit.” Victoria smiled at Jinki. They were both chatting after dancing two songs, but that was until the small accident Jinki caused.
No it wasn’t his sangtae, he was sure of it. His feelings told him something was wrong. He offered a small smile back to Victoria to cover up his uneasiness, before glancing out of the balcony, to the already dark sky.
Yoonhae?
Chapter: 8/10
>> Character List ||| Chp: 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6a | 6b | 7 | 8 | 9a | 9b | 10
Genre: AU, Romance, Various
Rating: PG-13
Pairing: 2min, Onew/OC, JongKey
Disclaimer: I only own the story. :D
Summary: Once upon a time, there lived two lovable princes; Prince Onew and Prince Taemin. Everyone respects and looks up to them, they were the perfect role models. But really, there's more to them than just being Princes. (Omfg I seriously fail at giving summary ._.)
A/N: Before you read this chapter, I'd like to explain myself first (lol), I'm a fan of B2ST and (although I don't exactly fangirl over Sulli), I didn't mean anything bad by making them the bad characters. Yes, I already updated the character list. They actually have 'reasons' why they are bad in this chapter... (:
***
C H A P T E R E I G H T
Yoonhae would like to think that she has no more feelings for Minho. And in all honesty, no, she doesn’t love him that way anymore.
It’s just that she has spent more than half of her life looking after him and caring for him, and just the thought of her beloved ones being in danger made her heart dropped a few cm and she just wanted him to be safe, really.
Not to mention that Jinki’s important person - his brother Taemin, is in danger too.
“There are seven of them.” Jonghyun stated. They were both hiding on a tree and watching as the five men entered their once called ‘house’.
“Jjong, I have a plan.” Yoonhae proposed. “We can’t waste anymore time so please listen carefully.”
-*-
Taemin shuddered from head to toe. His hand sneakily grabbed the metal pipe he managed to find beforehand as a small attempt of self-protection. His other hand was holding onto Minho shakily. He thought about how the assistant always protected him and it was time for him to somewhat pay back.
The seven men were starting to ransack the whole house, stealing and grabbing anything that has some values - not that there were many since the house has been deserted for quite some time. For every single sound of movements, Taemin couldn’t help wincing and flinching.
He was extremely scared.
Minho frowned in his unconscious state and Taemin frowned along. He brought his hand to massage Minho’s temple tenderly, hoping it would soothe the pain. The tall man’s temperature was still increasing gradually.
I need to get him back to the castle. He’s going to die at this rate. Taemin thought. But how?
His train of thoughts was cut abruptly as a hand snatched his arm and tugged him harshly before yanking him to the centre of the room. Taemin yelped as his body hit the cold floor.
“Look what we found here.” Junhyung smirked. “It’s the little prince and his dying assistant.”
“No, stay away from Minho!” Taemin swung his ‘weapon’ towards them.
“Whoa, chill, prince.” Junhyung made a mocking face, “that’s a dangerous weapon you have there.”
Someone knocked Taemin from the back and the prince fell onto the floor clutching his shoulder. The metal pipe he was holding dropped onto the floor with a loud, echoing noise.
“Good job, Yoseob… Let’s tie the prince up and bring him back to the base.”
“And the assistant?”
“He’s poisoned anyway, let him die slowly and painfully.” Junhyung instructed.
Taemin struggled as Yoseob attempted to bind him with a rope and that earned him a punch in the face.
“Stay still, won’t you?” Yoseob grumbled. Taemin soon recognized him as the teenager who led him to the wrong place.
Taemin inhaled a great amount of air before shouting on top of his lungs.
“HEEEEEEELPPPPP! MURDERER! RAPIST! HELPPPPPPPPPPP!!!!!!!!”
“Yah, shut up!” Yoseob cupped Taemin’s mouth harshly, “I’m not a rapist! Yah!”
Taemin bit Yoseob’s hand until it bled. Shocked, Yoseob let out a cry of pain before glaring at him. “You bit me!”
“HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLPPPPPPPPPPPPPP!” Taemin screamed.
A loud crash snapped all their attentions - causing the men and Taemin to look towards the source. Someone has broken the front door and Taemin felt like he could thank all the Gods in the universe upon seeing who it was.
“Let go of the prince.” Yoonhae spoke with authority, narrowing her eyes at the hooligans.
“Whoa, now they sent a female warrior.” Junhyung made fun. “I know who you are. You’re the oldest prince’s assistant. This is getting more and more interesting.”
“Which part of my words do you not understand?” Yoonhae asked calmly.
She slowly stepped into the house while all of the men (except Yoseob) began creeping towards her. They didn’t exchange words, just staring at each other, waiting for someone to make a move.
Jonghyun made use of the situation to tiptoe his way towards the table, where Minho was. He quickly examined Minho in silence, and was glad that Minho’s condition was not as bad as he thought it would be. He lifted the assistant quietly - the gang still didn’t know that Yoonhae wasn’t alone.
Yoonhae caught a glimpse of Jonghyun’s blonde hair and knew that Minho was safe then. She only needed to get to Taemin and then they could flee.
“The man who carried a rifle from the other carnival… Was he one of you?” Yoonhae questioned, not really expecting any of them to answer.
“Ooh… You mean Hyunseung? Yes he’s one of us… I have no idea why is he so stupid, letting you all catch him just like that.” Junhyung replied casually, as if he didn’t care if someone killed his allies, “he better figures out how to save himself before he gets executed.”
“Why don’t you figure out how to save yourselves then.” Yoonhae finally stopped moving around and got into a fighting stance.
“Hm. You mind your own business.” Junhyung smirked.
A fight broke then - six versus one - and Taemin couldn’t help squirming again as Yoseob began tying him.
“Noona!” Taemin shouted. “Be careful, don’t hurt yourself… Yah! Let go you weird person!”
“Weird? Why am I weird?!” Yoseob pouted, offended. “You called me a murderer, a rapist, bit me and now you said I’m weird?!”
“Let me go! Let me go!” Taemin struggled again.
“Aish, don’t make me punch you aga-“ Just then, someone punched Yoseob. Taemin looked up and his face brightened considerably as he saw Jonghyun grinning on him, Minho slumped on his shoulder.
“You okay, Prince?”
“Jonghyun-ssi!”
“Okay let’s continue our dramatic reunion when we see Key later. He’s the drama queen and we can’t snatch the role from him.” Jonghyun grabbed Taemin with his free hand and helped the prince stand up. “Let’s go!”
Taemin followed Jonghyun running towards the door. Junhyung noticed the three trying to escape and signaled to his men to divide themselves - some handling Yoonhae and some trying to stop them.
“Oh no you don’t.” Jonghyun kicked one of their stomachs and he tried to touch Taemin, “Don’t you know it’s rude to touch pretty women?!”
“Jonghyun-ssi, I’m a man!”
“But you are pretty!”
Taemin eyed Jonghyun in disbelief. How could someone be so playful and calm when faced by this kind of situation was beyond him.
In a matter of seconds, Yoonhae managed to get to them.
“Go, get out of here, quick.” Yoonhae pushed Taemin towards the door. Jonghyun was moving once again - occasionally kicking and punching the approaching bad people. Yoonhae stuck by Taemin’s side, fighting most of the men while pushing Taemin forward and protecting him.
Jonghyun got onto the horse with Minho in front of him. He hugged the limp Minho to make sure that the taller one wouldn’t fall off the horse - and then without hesitation he took off.
“Get on the horse, Your Majesty!” Yoonhae brought the men down two at a time. Four of them were unconscious - the only ones standing were Yoseob, Junhyung, and another man she didn’t know the name of. “Now!”
Taemin hastily scrambled his way to the horse and got on it. He turned back to ask for Yoonhae to climb on but she suddenly slapped the horse’s backside.
The horse let out a high-pitched neigh before running away. Taemin’s eyes widened as he realized what was going on.
“Don’t you turn back for me, Prince!” Yoonhae shouted after him, “See you at the castle!”
-*-
“Penny for your thoughts, Prince Onew?”
Jinki blinked and cleared his throat, offering his kind smile to Princess Victoria. “I’m sorry, I was spacing out, wasn’t I?”
“Well, you sort of tuned out on me but it’s okay… Is something bothering you?” She returned his smile sincerely.
“No, it’s nothing big, don’t worry.” Jinki led her towards the dance floor. “May I have the honor?”
“We’re already heading there, aren’t we?” Victoria chuckled, “I’m the one who’s honored, getting the chance to dance with the one and only handsome Prince Onew.”
“You flatter me, Princess.” Jinki kissed the back of Victoria’s hand.
The guests of the ball eyed the prince and princess with envy. They both made a perfect couple to their eyes.
“I think this is the first time I’ve seen the Prince with another woman other than Lady Yoonhae.” Krystal commented.
“Same here.” Seohyun - Taemin’s tutor nodded. She took a glass of wine from Krystal’s tray. “And where is Prince Taemin and Sir Choi?”
“They haven’t got back yet, Lady Seohyun.” Krystal sighed, “I’m really afraid that something bad happened to them.”
“Don’t worry… I’m sure they can take care of themselves.” Seohyun gulped.
“Oh you should have been to the kitchen though.” Krystal sulked. “While everyone is afraid and worrying for their well being, the maids of this castles have been squealing in delight and creating their own stories about how Prince Taemin and Lord Choi are out to elope. They are even fantasizing about them going to another kingdom to start a life as commoners and get married!”
“That’s… interesting.” Seohyun raised an eyebrow.
“I know right.”
-*-
“Jonghyun-ssi! Jonghyun-ssi!” Taemin called. Their horses were running in a fast speed - Taemin had to hold on tightly in order not to fall, “Yoonhae Noona is behi-“
“I know, Prince Taemin, that was the plan.” Jonghyun replied without turning to look. He was gritting his teeth. That girl is going to be the death of me one day.
“W-What if something happened to her?” Taemin gulped.
“If I were you, I’d start worrying about what would happen to those guys instead.” Jonghyun chuckled. “And we’re here!”
As their horses made a turn around the corner, the castle was standing a few meters before them. Taemin never felt so grateful at the sight of the castle before.
They both stopped at the front gate where Kyuhyun was already anticipating them. “Your Majesty! I’m glad you are all right!”
“Please call for the castle’s physician!” Taemin requested, “And send a few men down to the alleys around the South of the town to find Lady Yoonhae.”
“At once, milord!” Kyuhyun immediately instructed his men to move. Only then did Taemin got off his horse and helped Jonghyun with Minho.
“Taemin…” Minho slurred.
“I’m here. You’re going to be okay, Minho.” Taemin spoke. Jonghyun whistled.
“Say, do you have some herbs in this castle?”
“There’s a herb garden next to the elite horses’ stable.” Taemin replied, puzzled.
“Okay. So get the physician to check on him and treat his wound, but tell him not to give Minho any painkillers or medicine to drink because that won’t cure him.” Jonghyun told Taemin. “I will join you at Minho’s room in thirty minutes.”
Jonghyun then took both horses towards the stable in hurry. Taemin - who was supporting Minho - watched Jonghyun’s back view, wondering what was the man up to.
“I’ll give you a hand.” Kyuhyun offered, and then Taemin’s attention was back on Minho once again.
-*-
“I didn’t know that this kingdom has three princes.” Sulli commented.
Of course you didn’t know… You’re an airhead. Kibum rolled his eyes mentally. “Um, yes, originally it’s only my cousins. I’d officially be a prince only tomorrow after the ceremony.”
“Oh, that’s wonderful. I’ll ask my sister if we can both stay behind to watch the important event!” Sulli clapped her hand excitedly.
NO. “Hmm, that’s a good idea. But wouldn’t you and your sister be missed by the King?”
“Oh, of course not. Our father is extremely pleased that we are maintaining the close relationship between the two countries.” Sulli chuckled. “I’m glad I met you, Prince Key.”
“Same here.” NOT. Key faked a smile.
“W-Where is Prince Taemin, anyway?” Sulli shyly questioned - and Kibum, having the sharp pair of eyes, didn’t miss the faint blush appearing on her cheeks.
“He’s currently handling some documents to prepare for an upcoming event.” Kibum lied smoothly. He and Jinki had decided to use the line to encounter such question for the night. “He said he’ll be dropping by before the ball ends…” Hopefully he comes back before the ball ends, though. He added mentally.
“Oh… Okay.” Sulli seemed disappointed. “I was really looking forward to meet him…”
Someone’s got the hots for my Taemin baby. Kibum thought, the castle’s maids are not going to be happy if they discovered that this princess is a ‘competition’ in their forbidden love scenario.
“You seem pretty close with Ta- I mean, Prince Taemin.” Kibum cleared his throat.
“But that’s just to be expected, right?” Sulli smiled sweetly (making Key wince inwardly) “I mean, my dad said to get to know my future fiancé better…”
“WHAT?”
Kibum immediately closed his mouth with his right hand. Sulli blinked in shock before breaking into a giggling fit.
“Well, I wasn’t supposed to leak that yet, but yes, my father is planning to arrange a meeting between Prince Taemin and I soon.” Sulli explained, “I suppose the dukes haven’t informed the princes yet?”
Kibum gaped at the princess for a moment before snapping out of it.
What in the name of Heaven - “No, they haven’t said a word.” Kibum tried to regain his composure but failing at it - “Y-You’re really lucky.”
“I know Prince Taemin is a great man. He looks stunningly adorable too!” Sulli was wearing a dreamy expression.
Kibum’s hatred on this lady just grew ten times worst.
-*-
Taemin didn’t even bother changing out of his dirty clothes. Once the physician entered Taemin’s room (they decided to put Minho there because Taemin insisted that he wanted to take care of Minho through the night), the young prince immediately asked him to treat Minho. Taemin himself has scratches here and there, but he stubbornly refused to be checked up first.
“Minho is dying, please treat his arm.” Taemin told the old man. The physician gave in and rushed towards the bed, where Minho was lying there panting.
“We will need to get him change into a clean set of clothes.” The physician said, “He’s covered with dusts and perspiration… He might get infected by bacteria.”
Taemin hastily ran to his cupboard and grabbed the biggest shirt he has before tossing it to the physician. He wasn’t even aware that the old man was now taking off Minho’s clothes. The young prince would probably blush his face off if Minho weren’t dying then.
Once Minho was cleaned (they cleaned him up with a warm wet towel), the physician disinfected and treated his arm. Taemin had never been a fan of blood (how was he coping so far, he couldn’t comprehend) but he stayed by Minho’s side throughout, hoping more than anything he could heal people with some magic or some sort. Obviously he was just a normal human so it was impossible.
“I’ve done what I could. Do you want me to prescribe him with pain killers?”
“No.” Taemin shook his head. “Jonghyun-ssi said not to give him any medicine to drink.”
“Who is Jonghyun? Wait.” The physician’s eyes widened. “You mean Kim Jonghyun is in this castle?”
“Well how do you know him? And yes, he’s here.” Taemin’s curiosity built up.
“He’s quite a well-known inventor, Your Majesty.” The physician announced. “Not as well known as some others, but he is special because he invented not only helpful tools and machines, but he makes medicines as well. He’s a genius at his age and physician like me often buy his self-made medicine at a very high price. They are very valuable and efficient to treat sickness or wounds.”
Taemin’s eyes widened. That dinosaur-like man who sneaked into his Kibum hyung’s bedroom every night was that great?
“I’m sure he’ll know better medicine to give Sir Choi.” The physician smiled sincerely and packed up. “I’ll take my leave then. Please summon me again if there’s anything…”
“Thank you.” Taemin followed the physician to the door before sending him off.
Few minutes later, Jonghyun entered the room with his hand holding a paper bag. Taemin simply eyed him and smiled a bit before returning his attention to wiping Minho’s face with a small towel.
“I know you are worried about him.” Jonghyun sat next to Taemin, “but if I were you I would go to the ball right now.”
“I can’t leave him-“
“Prince Taemin.” Jonghyun emphasized, “I’m sorry, your kingdom comes first. Besides, I’ll be here to look after him. I won’t let my childhood friend die, don’t worry.”
“Jonghyun-ssi…” Taemin’s face softened - a slight guilt evident. “I’m sorry.”
“Don’t apologize, and call me hyung.” Jonghyun grinned. “And by the way, you are a great prince. You should be more confident about yourself.”
Taemin’s cheeks flushed. “T-Thank you.”
The young prince then gave Jonghyun a big, warm smile before getting up from his seat. “I’ll go get changed now and go to the hall… Please look after Minho.”
“Of course, milord.” Jonghyun casually waved his hand off. Taemin rushed towards the bathroom and started to groom himself quickly before going to the ball.
-*-
“I can’t believe you just did that. You are one brave girl.” Junhyung stared at Yoonhae in disbelief. “You’re not scared being left behind with three guys? We obviously outnumber you.”
“So?” Yoonhae wiped the side of her lip. “Doesn’t mean I can’t win.”
“That’s right.” Junhyung smirked. “Except that you are not armed with a weapon, but we are.”
Junhyung took out a small pistol and aimed at her. Yoonhae licked her dry lips. This was something she had already predicted.
“I wouldn’t shoot if I were you.” Yoonhae raised her eyebrow. “People might start coming and you’ll get arrested.”
“No. We’ll run fast enough for them not to catch us.”
“And your unconscious subordinates?”
“Oh. May be they’ll get caught?”
“You don’t care about your men, do you?”
“Care?” Junhyung cocked his weapon, “You mean you castle people know what does care mean? You don’t even care about us, why use such word now?”
Yoonhae gave him a confused look, “What do you mean?”
“Maybe you people will start caring if one of you died.” Junhyung scoffed. Yoseob gave him a frightened look.
“H-Hyung, you are not going to-“
“SHUT UP, YOSEOB. I DIDN’T ASK YOU TO INTERFERE.” Junhyung shouted, his eyes filled with anger and - an emotion Yoonhae interpreted as - pain.
“So long, Mistress.”
Yoonhae’s eyes widened as Junhyung pulled the trigger off.
-*-
The glass in Jinki’s hand accidentally slipped off and shattered on the ground. Jinki stared at it - his heart suddenly felt really uneasy.
“Oh my goodness, are you all right?” Victoria quickly tugged on Jinki’s arm, ushering him to step away from the mess. Krystal came rushing to clean up after the broken glasses and mopped the spilled wine.
“Thank God you didn’t dirty your suit.” Victoria smiled at Jinki. They were both chatting after dancing two songs, but that was until the small accident Jinki caused.
No it wasn’t his sangtae, he was sure of it. His feelings told him something was wrong. He offered a small smile back to Victoria to cover up his uneasiness, before glancing out of the balcony, to the already dark sky.
Yoonhae?