The Fifth Prince (1/2)
Pairing: Seungyoon/Taehyun
Word Count: 18k-ish
Rating: R
Warning: …it’s long?
Summary: Taehyun hates being a prince, until he falls in love with one. (WINNER as Princes!AU)
Author’s Note: I just want to say I’m not proficient in royalty AU, I haven’t read a lot of royalty AU fics so I’m a total noob but I tried my best! Also I realize I’m totally incapable of writing short oneshots but I hope you give this a chance anyway! Everything in this story is 100% made up. Except the feels. The feels are real. LOL.
MAP OF THE REALM (by the awesome Master Gaia kocch)
Princes are the worst.
A conclusion not many would make, blinded by the veneer of elegance and wealth and fancy robes and beautiful faces and who doesn’t like royalty? It’s those silly fairytales that cultivate the idea of “prince charming’ and brainwash everyone from childhood to think that these royals are perfect specimens on horsebacks with values like courage and valor on top of genetically handsome looks, who never lose at swordfights and are somehow always eligible.
It’s stupid. Taehyun knows as much because he has twenty years experience of having to mingle with princes and are people so far off base. Princes are conceited spoiled brats who never had to work a day in their lives, think they’re god’s gift to humankind, who prefer carriages over horses, spend their days trying to look good instead of doing anything good and by god, if any of them can actually pick up a sword without poking anyone in the eye, then it’s considered a good day.
Taehyun hates princes, most of all, because he is one. And he has to live with that embarrassment.
The sound of breaking glass fills the den and Taehyun looks up from his book, The History of the Sea Gypsies, only to find Mino and Seunghoon in another one of their stupid games that always involve destroying things, intended or not. Taehyun usually wouldn’t care, he’s used to the two always leaving a trail of destruction in their wake, but it’s his turn to host this royal brunch and they just broke a family heirloom without batting an eyelid, eyes fixed intensely at each other while beads of sweat roll down their foreheads, grunting like animals.
They’re in the middle of a war and these idiots are arm wrestling.
“That was a priceless vase,” Taehyun deadpans, his words falling on deaf ears as Mino and Seunghoon continue their match as if their lives depended on this victory. Taehyun supposes it’s always been their ‘thing’ - try to one up each other strength-wise, and he takes a little comfort in the fact that it’s perhaps to make up for what they lack in everything else, if their marks at the Royal Academy are anything to go by.
Mino’s howl pierces the quiet as he does a victory taunt over Seunghoon who is now slumped in his seat looking about ready to murder. Taehyun rolls his eyes, and he hears a small snicker from Seulgi, one of his servants and favorite. He shakes his head in disapproval and she offers him an encouraging nod as if to say just endure it. Taehyun heeds her silent advice and turns to his book again.
It’s hard to believe that a large part of the fate of The Victorem - the alliance of the four kingdoms - rely on these insipid monthly gatherings where they do nothing but eat, drink, argue, and in the case of Mino and Seunghoon, act like six year old boys. One would think that as the Crown Prince of Vatra, Taehyun would be more occupied putting into practice what he learned at the Academy in preparation to ascend into the throne one day, and yet here he is, powerless, spending time he could use to help end this war with a few of the people in the realm he dislikes the most.
Taehyun doesn’t look up from his book again until Jinwoo strides into the den with the announcement Taehyun wishes he never has to hear again.
“They are ready for us,” the prince says, giving Mino and Seunghoon a repugnant look for the mess they’ve caused in the space before turning his attention to Taehyun. He gives him a long, hard stare that has Taehyun jutting his chin out in a challenge, but Jinwoo only scoffs.
“Are you wearing that?”
Taehyun looks down at his brown tunic before he eyes Jinwoo’s forest green robe with silver trimmings - the banner colors of the Kingdom of Zemia. Jinwoo looks immaculate, as always, and Taehyun would have been enamored by him like the rest of the realm if not for his exceeding vanity. And that creepy-looking cat, Taehyun adds as an afterthought at the hairless creature purring against Jinwoo’s leg.
“Your kingdom is the wealthiest, Taehyun. At least dress like it.”
“I will wear whatever I want to wear,” Taehyun snaps back, but before he can give Jinwoo a haughty smirk, one of his servants approach him, holding up a scarlet robe with golden tassels for Taehyun to put on. Jinwoo doesn’t hide his smugness as he leaves the den, Mino and Seunghoon following him not long after. Taehyun breathes out the frustration, giving his servant a cutting look. Nonetheless, he allows her to put the robe on him.
Contrary to popular belief, there are several drawbacks to being a prince. And the biggest one is that they are relegated to the inane job of being puppets.
Five years ago, at the height of the war against the Kingdom of Voda, the general masses were distraught and paranoid, afraid that the power of The Victorem cannot protect them, not when the alliance itself was riddled with internal conflicts between the four kingdoms.
At that time, the princes were only young boys quietly attending the Royal Academy. Rumors of a fight between Prince Mino and Prince Seunghoon circulated in the four kingdoms, which only fueled the anxiety of the people. In order to quell these talks, the Victorem decided to stage an outing among the princes, to show the realm that they are not fighting, and in fact, are friends.
First it was a trip to a Metali theatre. Then a Zemian market.
The response was more immense than they had expected. People from all walks of life talked and were captivated by the princes who are all almost of the same age. It was a strange phenomenon they’ve stumbled upon. More effective than pronouncements of solidarity from the Kings were the proof that the four Crown Princes were the best of friends. They were objects of fantasy, of fairy tales. People began to care less about the moral consequences of the war and stopped questioning the intentions of The Victorem.
For a war that was being slowed down by fluctuating public opinion, it was a breakthrough for the strategists. And a dark day for Taehyun.
As soon as they saunter out into the palace gardens, they hear the chatter of conversations and laughter and the collective oohs and ahhs that fill the air. That’s Taehyun’s cue to smile widely, walking into a large tea party where they’ve invited Vatran nobles, merchants, and some farm workers, even guests from the other three kingdoms. Seunghoon is beside him, as instructed by their advisers.
The heightening tension between Vatra and Metali regarding the ownership of the River Haute that lie in between the two kingdom’s borders means that Taehyun and Seunghoon, as the respective princes, have to play nicer than usual to ease the animosity their people may feel. To show that the royal families are very much friends and the alliance is stronger than ever.
Going by the script, Taehyun playfully nudges Seunghoon’s shoulder, to which Seunghoon lets out an exaggerated laugh. In return, Seunghoon ruffles Taehyun’s hair and Taehyun winces, but tries to control his expression right away. He can already sense the people around them lapping this up. Before the day ends, most villages will be talking about how Taehyun is closest to the prince of Metali.
“I told you to keep your hands off my hair,” Taehyun hisses behind a heavy smile.
“You better play along, Taehyun. Your Father’s money is no match for our militia,” Seunghoon grins, giving his hair another ruffle, rougher, to annoy Taehyun some more. “You don’t want to be on the wrong side of this war.”
Taehyun reaches for Seunghoon’s hand on his head and tugs it down sharply. The older prince looks panicked for a moment - it’s always been Taehyun who has the tendency to rebel at these gatherings - but Taehyun only pulls him to where Mino and Jinwoo are already sitting on the circular table reserved for them under a pear tree. They smile and nod at the people they pass, accepting cheerful greetings.
Taehyun hates being no different than a marionette that puts on a show. But if it’s in the name of peace, then to play along is all he can do for now.
“General Choi believes Voda is going to surrender in less than a week,” Mino says quietly, biting into an apple and giving a little wave to two maidens who pass by with a coquettish smile. Taehyun tears his eyes away from the pie crumbs he’d been pushing around his plate to the Dravosi prince. They’re only made aware of the war’s progress during sessions with the Victorem Court - these lengthy discussions about the politics of the realm which the princes are required to attend but never to contribute - but Mino always gets information first because the General of the Victorem army is from Dravos and a close friend of Mino’s father.
If only for his generosity with secrets, Taehyun thinks Mino is tolerable.
“Their forces are too weak, and the rebels in Zemia have been incapacitated, cutting off the supply of grains to the Vodan army. Their warriors aren’t going to last long in the battlefield with no food.”
“About damn time,” Jinwoo says, stroking his cat. Taehyun grimaces when it lets out a purr directed at him that sounds a lot like a curse in feline language. He turns his attention to Jinwoo instead, detecting pride in the prince’s striking features. Taehyun can read their kingdom’s headlines now, Zemian King: responsible for victory over Voda.
Jinwoo inherited his Father’s conceit.
“Thirteen years of resistance, all for nothing. They’ve run their own kingdom to the ground because of their arrogance. How dare they think they can stand against The Victorem?”
“Arrogance?” Taehyun lets out a dry laugh before he can stop himself, putting his fork down and turning to Jinwoo. He really can’t get through any of these gatherings without flaring up at least once. “Or survival? May I remind you that it’s your kingdom that threatened their existence. Your grandfather was going to wipe Voda off the map by assimilating them into Zemia by force.”
“And it was your grandfather, Taehyun, who signed the articles of war first - killing two thousand Vodans in one day,” Seunghoon adds without looking up from his cup of tea. “Don’t act so clean, my Vatran prince. You have as much blood on your hands as the rest of us do.”
“Stop it,” Mino raises his voice, scanning the gardens. “The guests are still here.”
Taehyun grips the armrests of his chair with all the strength he should be using to punch Seunghoon in the face. Instead, he settles down and straightens his expression. Nothing good comes out of antagonizing any of the princes further, not when they never change their minds anyway.
Taehyun reaches for his own cup and takes a sip. “If anything, we should be glad the war is soon over. No more bloodshed and unnecessary spending.”
“Like I said,” Jinwoo throws Taehyun a venomous look. “They should have surrendered sooner.”
“What’s going to happen to the Vodan King?” Seunghoon asks, turning to Mino. “I hear he’s very ill.”
“I’m not sure, but I have a theory,” Mino replies, bending down as if to tell them it’s something no other soul should hear. They mimic Mino’s movement and lean closer. “Last month the Vodan King’s brother sold secrets to the Victorem army that were instrumental in breaching the wall.”
“What?” Taehyun pipes, nearly letting go of his cup. “How come we weren’t informed of this?”
“Only the Kings and the highest officials know. If you were the traitor that caused your kingdom’s defeat but you plan to rule your people, the last thing you want is for word to get out that you traded their freedom for a throne.”
“This is a war but we still live by basic ethics,” Taehyun spits, the slow burn of anger igniting his convictions. “Like the Victorem Court can ever seat a treacherous man as king?”
“You’re far too naïve, Taehyun,” Seunghoon snipes. “It’s cute.”
Taehyun glares at him, but Jinwoo is quick to speak first. “What of the King’s son? You all remember him, right? From before the war broke out?”
Taehyun faintly recalls a boy from Voda at a gathering of royals, back when the kingdoms were at peace. But he doesn’t remember his face or his name.
Mino shakes his head. “That, I do not know. No one has heard about the crown prince in a while. Some say that he’s fighting as a warrior, some say he and his queen mother fled to the sea gypsies west of Voda. He could have been a casualty of the war for all we know.”
“Poor lad,” Jinwoo offers as he sips on his tea. Taehyun sees no sympathy on his face.
Their conversation is cut short when a few nobles approach their table for a chat. Taehyun puts on a smile and tells himself for the hundredth time that day to endure it. It will all end soon.
*
Taehyun is at the high tower, crouched on the floor between a shelf and a window, sifting through a book he’d found about ancient Vodan mythology that were never taught to them at the Academy, at least not the way they were educated in the allegories of Dravos, Vatra, Zemia, and Metali.
It had been so easy for their tutors to downplay the last sovereign kingdom in their region, and only talk of its impoverished state and archaic ways to emphasize the Victorem’s superiority. But Taehyun had always believed there’s more to the secrets that lie beyond the Vodan wall. He gathers as much when he stumbles upon books on Voda - their rich culture and history.
He’s immersed in a tale about full moons and mermaids that reside in the deep waters of the Sapphire Sea when he hears the trumpets, followed by jovial cheers that have him springing to his feet, walking to the window ledge. Looking down, he sees palace workers in what seems to be a celebration. As Taehyun decides to go down and discover what the fuss is all about, Seulgi is beside him in an instant.
“Your highness,” she says, a smile enhancing her delicate features. Taehyun could tell she is brimming excitement, ready to deliver good news. “The war is over. Voda has fallen.”
At that moment, Taehyun is overcome with an emotion that doesn’t come close to that felt by the people rejoicing below. It’s a strange brand of sadness, mixed with relief. And perhaps disappointment. For the longest time, Taehyun had wanted this war to end, but never really gave much thought to who he wanted to emerge victorious.
It seems as if Seunghoon was onto something. Maybe a part of Taehyun has always been on the wrong side of this war.
*
Taehyun wakes up to sunlight seeping through his windows and a sense of exhilaration at the pit of his stomach. It’s the day the officials from the three kingdoms arrive for the Victorem Court, the first session that shall not only comprise of Dravos, Vatra, Zemia and Metali. The surrender of Voda meant allegiance to The Victorem, and today they are about to welcome the Vodans that have travelled past the now defunct wall that has separated Voda from the rest of the realm for more than a decade.
The Vodan delegation, made up of what is left of the highest royal and military officials, is set to enter Vatra for the first time in thirteen years. The whole palace had been buzzing with preparations for the past week, and while they have hosted many a Victorem Court sessions before, everybody knows this one is special. As though it is a momentous occasion in their history, an honor for the host kingdom, and it certainly shows in the lavish planning. In true Vatran fashion, everything must be perfect.
Taehyun doesn’t wait for his servants and dresses himself up with the first articles of clothing he sees, already filled with excitement as he treads down the marble steps. The Dravosi party arrived at dawn, and as much as he isn’t really looking forward to seeing Mino again, he’s eager to learn what he could about the Vodan delegation, and he has an inkling Mino would possess that information.
As expected, he sees him loitering by the kitchen where several female servants are quite flustered and mildly amused to have a prince pillaging through breakfast preparations.
“Always impatient,” Taehyun chides as he steals the piece of bread Mino is about to eat, earning him a scowl from the prince. Taehyun signals at the kitchen workers and they all scurry away, leaving the two to freely talk.
“I could say the same about you,” Mino grumbles, reaching for a bowl of fireberries that are sweetest in Vatra. “Can’t even wait until breakfast before you squeeze information out of me.”
“I am feeding you, aren’t I?”
“I can get fed anywhere, Taehyun. The secrets I hold, however, are exclusive to me.”
“Fair enough,” Taehyun takes a seat on the wooden stool across from Mino. “What do you want?”
Mino smirks, his dark eyes glinting. “Seulgi.”
Taehyun scoffs, wishing he’d poured himself a glass of water so there was something ready to throw on the prince’s face. “She is not that kind of girl and I’m insulted that you would ever think I would whore my own serv-“
“What?!” Mino chokes on a mouthful of berries, effectively cutting Taehyun short. “I do not mean in that way! I just wish to borrow her for the duration of our visit to assist me,” Mino clarifies, grabbing himself his own glass of water. “I know we barely get along but you’ve known me since we were children. I never expected you to think so low of me.”
Taehyun feels guilt rise to his throat and he doesn’t hold back an apology. “I’m sorry. It’s just… Seulgi is a friend.”
“I know,” Mino answers, his face more solemn. “I’m a Dravosi. I don’t have friends like you have here in your palace. And I thought maybe while I’m here in Vatra, Seulgi wouldn’t mind being one to me, too.”
Taehyun gives him a rare smile. Sometimes Mino isn’t bad, if he isn’t trying to destroy priceless ornaments. “Deal. In any case, that girl can take care of herself and I doubt you can touch her even if you tried.”
Mino returns the smile and pushes the bowl of berries closer to Taehyun. It’s the closest to a truce he’s ever shared with any of the other princes.
“If it’s information you want then I have a good one for you,” Mino starts, his tone more serious. Taehyun shifts in his seat and pays close attention. “The King of Voda passed away three nights ago.”
Taehyun’s eyes widen, but before he could say anything, Mino holds up a hand. “That’s not the most interesting part. It turns out the Vodan prince wasn’t in hiding, and had been, in fact, leading his own men in the war since he turned eighteen two years ago. None of the Victorem officials knew because their group worked discreetly, in the shadows. I heard they took down three Metali ships in one night by burning them down. Ask me how many warriors are in the prince’s group.”
“How many?”
“Six. Including him.”
“You’re lying,” Taehyun shakes his head. It’s not so much the unlikelihood of it all, but the fact that there is a prince in their realm that did more than sit in sessions where they never get to speak, or parade in front of people in fancy garb to maintain peace. A chill runs down his spine as Taehyun imagines himself wielding a sword and living the tales he only reads about.
“Not even General Choi can give me such information,” Mino shrugs. “It’s his squire. Quite a talent for eavesdropping and digging around.”
“Wow,” Taehyun breathes, his heart pounding for reasons he can’t quite put his finger on. “And is the Crown Prince…”
“Yes,” Mino says with a nod. “Yes, he’s coming.”
They both turn to the door when they hear the blare of trumpets that signal the arrival of yet another delegation. “My guess is Seunghoon,” Mino suggests disinterestedly, biting into another piece of bread. “You know Zemians like to be fashionably late. Jinwoo probably won’t be here until midday.”
*
Taehyun sits in between Jinwoo and Mino at the Victorem sessions, on fancy thronelike wooden chairs with their kingdoms’ insignias. None of them is nearly as interested in these proceedings as Taehyun is, and most of the time he would catch Mino dozing off, or Jinwoo scribbling away on a piece of paper to pass the time. He doesn’t even want to know what Seunghoon does.
But today he can tell they’re as keen as every individual in the Victorem Court for this session to start.
“Did you see him?” Jinwoo whispers as he settles beside him.
“The prince? No,” Taehyun answers, unable to hide the disappointment in his tone. When the Vodan party arrived earlier, they’d all been wearing navy blue hoods with the Vodan emblem, and no way to take a peek at their faces or tell the prince apart.
“I hear he’s a brutish man,” Jinwoo says with distaste. “Then again, it’s to be expected of Vodan royalty. They probably conduct themselves no better than common folk.”
Taehyun ignores Jinwoo and eyes the leaders of the court. Four thrones that seat four kings, surrounded by advisers and military officials all in their respective colors. Even to Taehyun who has grown up in the Victorem, It’s a daunting sight. Taehyun wonders with great interest how the Vodans are going to handle themselves.
Not a moment too soon, the Vodans are announced into the Great Hall, and Taehyun could almost hear a pin drop at the tense silence that envelops the large space. He fixes his eyes on the doors, a thrill coursing through his bones in anticipation.
Two men lead the pack, tall and muscular with auras that give off the impression they’ve seen far too many battles in one lifetime. Military officials, Taehyun thinks. More people enter, all looking more stern than the last. Their clothes are not so much different from the rest of the Court, but the majestic hues of cerulean, cobalt, and sapphire are foreign and exotic, certainly more intimidating than the colors Taehyun had grown up with.
Taehyun could feel the leaders tense in their seats. He, himself, is about to burst with intrigue while waiting for the mysterious prince. It’s when the Vodans suddenly disperse and neatly part into two straight lines facing each other, that Taehyun holds his breath.
The young man that walks in is every bit the prince Taehyun imagines princes should be. His dark blue tunic is almost green when hit by the sun trickling through the windows, a contrast to the pale skin that glows against the material of his clothes. Dignified, with an air of affluence and grace that could only be characteristic of royalty, no different from the princes beside him. But there’s an intensity there that he will never find in himself, or Mino or Seunghoon or Jinwoo, in his dark eyes, in the clench of his sharp jaw, in the taut line of his lips.
The Vodan prince looks like someone who has seen suffering, who has been in battles Taehyun could only dream of, but still holds his head high despite defeat. Taehyun thinks he’s never seen anyone more captivating, more breathtaking with every step he takes that doesn’t show fear or trepidation even in the presence of kings.
The delegation walks to the farthest end of the Hall, all eyes glued to them as they take their seats. Taehyun notes how different the Court looks - how complete it somehow feels.
Once they’ve settled down, General Choi walks to the platform in the center of the hall and begins his speech about the triumph of The Victorem. Taehyun, however, doesn’t take his eyes off the prince, who shows no signs of discomfort despite the general’s narration of the alliance forces’ victory.
There’s thunderous applause when the man finishes, and Taehyun squirms in his seat when one of the Vodan delegates stands up.
“Prince Seungyoon of the Kingdom of Voda,” the man announces and silence cloaks the hall, all eyes on the prince once again.
Seungyoon, Taehyun repeats the name under his breath as he watches the prince rise from his seat and walk toward the thrones to bow before the Kings. They all return it with curt nods.
“Your majesties,” the prince starts to say, and there’s a shiver that runs down Taehyun’s spine when his voice fills all corners of the Great Hall. There’s something about him that definitely commands everyone’s attention, more than the unfamiliarity of his presence or the depth of his voice.
Seungyoon turns around once, his eyes seemingly scanning every face. Taehyun gasps quietly when he thinks they’ve made eye contact, but it’s much too short.
“And all the reputable members of the Victorem Court,” he continues. “I humbly come before you today to acknowledge our kingdom’s surrender. It was a war none of us truly wanted. We, Vodans, only sought autonomy - the independence to govern our territory, our people, and our pride.”
At that moment, a low hiss fills the hall and frowns appear on the Kings’ faces. Taehyun could feel his heart beating faster, suddenly worried for the Vodan prince. But before the hiss turns into anything else, Seungyoon speaks again.
“But do not misunderstand - Voda is prepared to enter The Victorem as a consequence of our loss, but also an acknowledgment that times have changed. There are tremendous advantages to being part of this esteemed alliance. There is a reason why The Victorem is feared even across our seas.”
Taehyun nearly scoffs at the smug Kings. It seems Seungyoon is an eloquent politician, too.
“I only ask that you afford our kingdom the same rights and privileges as Dravos, Vatra, Zemia, and Metali, and in return, we shall fulfill the same duties and obligations. Treat Vodans with the same respect that you would give your own people, and I can vow on my honor as the future King of Voda, that we will be compliant, and no war will befall this realm once more.”
“The terms of the submission shall hold,” the Dravosi King says. “We only seek for Voda to be an ally that will possess the same aspirations for the realm as the rest of The Victorem. Together, we can make the alliance of the five kingdoms not only the most flourished, but the most formidable in all of the seven seas.”
“Then you have my loyalty and my word that Voda will be part of the new Victorem,” Seungyoon declares, looking over at his delegation. Taehyun sees something in his expression change, almost imperceptible if one isn’t paying attention. Taehyun instinctively edges forward in his seat.
“However, there is another thing I wish to request of the Court.”
“Speak, young prince.”
“I have been made aware that my Uncle is currently hiding in Metali. Give him to me, your majesties, and he will be dealt with by the Vodan law for committing treason against our King.”
“Damn,” Jinwoo whispers to Taehyun as murmurs fill the hall once more. “He’s a feisty one, I’ll give him that.”
Jinwoo’s statement snaps Taehyun out of his trance and he’s all too aware of the commotion starting. It doesn’t bode well for the prince.
“Silence!” General Choi bellows, glaring at Seungyoon. “Prince Seungyoon, you are out of bounds. This accusation-“
“It is not an accusation, my Lord. Rather, a plea.” Seungyoon’s voice comes out strained, the first time Taehyun is hearing some composure leave him. “I understand that I am too young to ascend the throne my Father left behind, I do not even know where to begin picking up the pieces of a kingdom that has been ravaged by war for thirteen years. But I am here now, at your mercy. I implore you to respect my father’s dying wish that I be his successor. This war that we did not start has taken away everything from my people. Do not entrust our kingdom to that cowardly traitor who will not think twice about betraying your highnesses, the way he betrayed his own blood, if the situation were beneficial for him.”
“Shit. I know that look,” Mino says quietly, looking as if he’s ready to flee. “Choi is not pleased.”
Before Seungyoon could respond, an unfamiliar voice booms in the hall.
“General. Take a step back from the Prince,” a large man from the Vodan delegation speaks suddenly, a hand hovered over the hilt of his sword.
It’s hard to decipher the Kings’ expressions after that and everything is a blur when members of the Court are talking over each other and the Dravosi General looks as though he could beat up Seungyoon right then and there. Even the Vodans are up on their feet, ready to protect their prince in case things get out of hand.
The next thing Taehyun knows, they’re being ushered out the doors of the Great Hall. He looks over at Seungyoon and the last he sees of him is how he’s hauled behind some of the Vodan guards. Taehyun finds himself hoping fervently that no harm comes to him.
*
Taehyun walks the cobblestone steps up the tower, running on what little sleep he could get the night before. Certainly not from the lack of trying. He had decided to slip into his chambers as early as was allowed so he wouldn’t have to be stuck entertaining the princes all night. And since the Vodans kept themselves scarce after what happened at the Great Hall, opting to stay within their allotted section of the Vatran palace, Taehyun didn’t have any reason to stick around.
He’d tried several things to expense his energy: read the most unexciting book he could get his hands on, practice calligraphy, he’d even taken to looking up at the night sky until the drowsiness comes, and yet he still found himself tossing and turning in bed, chasing elusive sleep.
The truth is, burned in his mind was the image of Prince Seungyoon talking to the kings with bravado he had not seen in any other high ranking official, not even General Choi. It made Taehyun wonder about how Seungyoon was raised as a prince. Vodans are known for their integrity and an unbending sense of virtue. He’d expected Seungyoon to be stubborn as a result, but he did not expect him to be fearless. Or stupid, as Jinwoo would probably describe Seungyoon’s behavior at the Court.
As soon as Taehyun reaches the library, he breathes in the scent of old books and parchment and smiles to himself. No matter how many times he comes back to this place, it doesn’t lose its charm. It’s certainly his sanctuary away from the mundane tasks of a prince. Here, he can be anyone he desires while exploring different worlds in his mind.
He approaches the shelf where the book on Vodan Mythology he has yet to finish awaits, but Taehyun suddenly stops in surprise when he sees a figure hunkered down, on his favorite spot.
Prince Seungyoon is surrounded by several books, stacked haphazardly or strewn wide open, Taehyun could feel his eyebrows twitch at the disarray his usually neat space has become. The irritation only lasts about a second before nervous anticipation washes over him.
Seungyoon has one leg outstretched, the other folded, his thigh holding the book up. His windswept hair covers his eyebrows; a finger runs across the edge of the cover repeatedly, like an endearing habit.
Taehyun considers leaving before Seungyoon senses his presence, but he’s too late to take a small step back, because the Vodan prince looks up from the page he is reading.
“Hello,” Seungyoon says casually, his brown eyes peering up at Taehyun. The morning sunlight casts a shadow of eyelashes over his cheeks and Taehyun sucks in a breath at how stunning he looks up close. Taehyun never expected he’d still be floored by anyone else’s looks, not when he’s constantly surrounded by princes the people have collectively deemed as the most attractive men in the realm. Sure, Seungyoon doesn’t have Jinwoo’s eyes, or Seunghoon’s cheekbones, or Mino’s nose, but Seungyoon has a strong jaw and full lips that curve into a captivating smirk. There’s an easy confidence to him that is undoubtedly royalty, isn’t excessive, very, very charming.
“Hello,” Taehyun says back, hoping he doesn’t look like the gawking fool he is in his head. He would ask Seungyoon why he’s there sitting on his special spot, but his voice fails him.
“Prince Taehyun,” Seungyoon says after a beat more of silence, pushing the book aside and rising to his feet. Taehyun’s stomach lurches at the sound of his name, and perhaps at the fact that Seungyoon knows who he is. Being as tall as him, he faces Taehyun easily, their eyes leveled with each other without effort. “I get the feeling I’m invading your territory. I apologize.”
“This high tower is open to everyone, especially to guests.”
“Do guests get mark the precious books, too?”
“What are you-” Taehyun pauses, biting down on his lower lip at the realization. His eyes flit to the books spread on the floor.
Following his line of sight, Seungyoon picks one up and opens to the last page. Taehyun watches with a flush at the way Seungyoon thumbs over the surface of the page where Taehyun had inscribed his name. It’s a habit Taehyun doesn’t think much of, a system he began when he was twelve because he sometimes forgets which books he’d already read - and so he marked the books as a reminder.
“It’s a beautiful name,” Seungyoon remarks, looking up. “And this symbol?”
“Fire,” Taehyun replies, tries not to dwell on the compliment about his name. “For Vatra.”
“Of course. And I suppose if I were allowed to leave my name on these books I’d add a symbol for water. Voda.”
“You’re welcome to do so if you want. I wouldn’t stop you.”
“Vatran hospitality is warmer than I anticipated. Even from their crown prince,” Seungyoon snaps the book shut, the sound echoing in the library. The atmosphere shifts as Taehyun notes a lace of sarcasm in Seungyoon’s tone. His body tenses, like it does when something feels off. True enough, Seungyoon’s smile disappears, his face darkening, and Taehyun tries not to shrink under his glare.
“Have I done anything to offend you, your highness?” Taehyun speaks to slice through the tension.
Seungyoon’s chuckle is acerbic to his ears. “Let us not pretend you think of me any higher than you would your servants. After all, we Vodans are just war prisoners to you.”
Taehyun frowns, not quite understanding where Seungyoon’s hostility comes from. As far as Taehyun knows, they’ve welcomed the Vodans with utmost sincerity. “You must be mistaken-”
Before he could finish, Seungyoon takes a step forward and suddenly he’s too close for Taehyun’s comfort. He gulps, feeling a mixture of panic and something else entirely he can’t distinguish. For a few seconds they just hold each other’s gaze, only broken off when Seungyoon pushes the book he’s holding into Taehyun’s hands.
“Relax, your highness. I’m unarmed,” Seungyoon says, his eyes dropping to Taehyun’s mouth, lingering there for a beat too long before he steps back. Taehyun feels heat rise to his cheeks, humiliated that the prince had sensed his nerves, and that he isn’t more composed in his presence.
He searches for something to say, his pride on the line and yet his voice betrays him again. It isn’t like him. He never experienced this predicament with the other princes. In fact, he’s always been known to have the sharpest tongue.
Seungyoon runs a hand over his tunic, squaring his shoulders before meeting Taehyun’s eyes once more. “Tell your King and his friends that I will not be reduced to a puppet the Victorem can dangle around to deceive people that all is well. Not when you lot don’t even have the decency to give me what is rightfully mine.”
Seungyoon’s words echo in the silence of the library, as loud as the hatred in his voice. This is not how Taehyun had imagined meeting the Vodan prince. He foolishly thought they’d be kindred spirits somehow, having found someone he sees himself aspiring to be.
Taehyun could only watch wordlessly as Seungyoon turns for the door, letting out the breath he’d been holding. He had always thought himself better than the monarchs in The Victorem, and it takes a lot to shatter what little dignity he has in that fact. But over the course of minutes, and without needing many words, Seungyoon had unraveled him for the feeble prince that he is.
Taehyun cannot argue with the truth Seungyoon speaks.
“I’m sorry,” he hears himself say, looking down at the book in his hand. It’s the book he’d been reading. What a coincidence.
“What did you say?”
Taehyun looks over his shoulder and sees Seungyoon leaning by the doorframe with an unreadable expression on his face. He didn’t think Seungyoon would hear him, his weak and cowardly apology was only meant for the wind.
“I’m sorry,” he repeats.
“For what? Be specific,” Seungyoon challenges. “For starting the war more than a decade ago? Invading my kingdom? Threatening my throne - what?”
“I’m sorry about your Father,” Taehyun says, surprised at the sincerity in his own voice. “It must be difficult to lose him at this time.”
Taehyun senses the subtle change in Seungyoon’s demeanor - he’s still guarded, but his face softens by a fraction. He doesn’t say anything and just looks at Taehyun like he’s trying to figure him out, read between the lines. But Taehyun doesn’t mean anything else other than he’s truly sorry, and he wishes things were different.
“He was a great king,” Seungyoon finally says, his voice filled with respect and a hint of longing. “An even better man.”
Taehyun wishes he could say more, but Seungyoon doesn’t wait for his reply and turns to leave, his footsteps sounding eerily distant as Taehyun sags against the wall, feeling all the energy drained out of him.
*
The next Court sessions drag on without a conclusion, and Taehyun is starting to get frustrated at how obstinate the Kings are when Seungyoon’s request is reasonable enough. The Vodan adviser to the deceased King is known as one of the most brilliant thinkers in the realm, and also Seungyoon’s loyal godfather, capable enough to be interim ruler until Seungyoon is of age to be King.
But Taehyun isn’t so naïve to think there aren’t politics behind this, and perhaps all these sessions are being held to put up a façade of impartiality, but are designed to dissuade Seungyoon from fighting for his place. Even Taehyun who had seen importance to attending the Victorem Court even when he never contributes to the dialogue finds the debates exhausting now.
Seungyoon, on the other hand, seems as steadfast as ever, which is admirable, if not moving. Witnessing passion and fire in a prince isn’t a common occurrence for Taehyun. He only wishes he could have had the opportunity to meet Seungyoon in a different circumstance.
They make eye contact at the fourth session, after Taehyun yawns while listening to General Choi recount, for what seems like the hundredth time, how he had led the forces to win the war. Taehyun’s eyes stray to the Vodan delegation unknowingly, only to see Seungyoon already looking at him.
Taehyun snaps his mouth shut, mortified at his un-princelike behavior, and he thinks he sees a faint, amused smile peeking at the edges of Seungyoon’s usually tight lips. It makes Taehyun’s neck heat up in embarrassment, but Seungyoon had already looked away when Taehyun tries for a more dignified look.
It’s mid-afternoon when the session ends, and Taehyun quickly gets up to avoid running into Seungyoon in the corridors, (they hadn’t talked again after that unfortunate first meeting at the tower), and maybe escape from the other princes before he lets them drag him into spending quality time at the courtyard. He’d already had a close call yesterday because Seunghoon was bored and somehow the prick thinks it’s less fun without Taehyun to annoy.
“Why does the Vodan prince keep staring at you?”
Taehyun is already halfway to his chambers when Jinwoo steps in front of him with his trademark devious scowl that people often mistake for a delightful smirk because they can’t accept that someone with an angelic face can actually be the devil’s spawn. Nonetheless, Taehyun rolls his eyes. Seungyoon looked at him once and already Jinwoo is asking why the attention isn’t on him.
“What?”
Jinwoo narrows his eyes, arms crossed. “Prince Seungyoon keeps staring at you. You haven’t noticed?”
“He doesn’t stare at me,” Taehyun frowns. Jinwoo must be exaggerating.
The older prince sighs, patting Taehyun’s shoulder.”You might not know this because of your questionable taste but Prince Seungyoon is quite handsome, so I’ve taken a liking to looking at him out of boredom. Believe me, he’s always stealing glances at you every session.”
Taehyun blinks in confusion, he hadn’t noticed at all - nor can he think of any reason why. Perhaps Seungyoon is still angry at him for what happened at the tower?
“I don’t understand either,” Jinwoo continues, reading the expression on Taehyun’s face. “Unless you’re secretly friends and have been spending time with him behind our backs. Is this why you don’t meet with us anymore? I’m a little hurt.” Jinwoo fakes a frown and Taehyun can’t help but let out a dry laugh.
“You don’t want to spend time with me any more than necessary. And I’m not friends with the Vodan prince. We barely even acknowledge each other.”
“If you say so,” Jinwoo shrugs. Taehyun takes that as the end of this strange conversation, but before he could leave, Jinwoo speaks again. “I invited him to a private dinner tonight with Seunghoon and Mino. I thought it would be nice for us to get to know each other. If you can grit your teeth long enough to last a meal, you’re welcome to join us.”
“Wait. Prince Seungyoon agreed to this dinner?”
“Of course. He wouldn’t turn down the prince of Zemia.” And with that, Jinwoo walks away, leaving Taehyun to wonder what kind of hell Jinwoo had just arranged. If his conversation with Seungyoon at the tower is any indication, Seungyoon is not fond of the princes at all.
And if only for that, Taehyun is definitely coming.
*
Taehyun couldn’t be sure what he’s secretly laughing at more, the appalled look on Jinwoo’s face after Seungyoon insinuated that his cat is ugly or Mino’s tortured grimace as he chews on a Vodan candy made of seaweeds Seungyoon had ‘graciously’ offered. Maybe it’s the fake, diplomatic smile Seunghoon is forced to put on after Seungyoon made a snide joke about Metali’s penchant for hiding treacherous uncles or how Seungyoon declared the best food in Vatra tasteless, making all his servants gasp in offense.
Regardless, Taehyun is hiding his face behind his dinner napkin, trying so hard not to make noise as he wheezes in between chokes of laughter, because everything about tonight is funnier than that time Seunghoon fell into a puddle of mud behind Mino’s palace and Taehyun remembered laughing at that for a whole hour.
Knowing this is inappropriate behavior, he bites the insides of his cheeks to stop himself, and it takes a lot of effort before he manages a straight face and pulls down his napkin. When he does, however, he’s met by the baffled faces of the princes, save for Seungyoon who’s looking down at his plate, suspiciously looking like he’s also about to laugh.
“What, pray tell, is funny?” Seunghoon asks across from him, his displeasure evident in the scowl he wears.
Taehyun sucks in his lips and shakes his head. “You don’t want me to answer that.”
“Well,” Jinwoo rises from his seat, dabbing his mouth with his napkin. Taehyun claps a hand over his mouth when he accidentally lets out a chortle at seeing Seungyoon make a face when Jinwoo picks up his cat from the chair beside him. Jinwoo’s ears are tinged pink and he looks about ready to explode. “I think this dinner is over. I’ve certainly had enough.”
“It was an honor and a pleasure to share a meal with you, Prince Seungyoon,” Seunghoon says before he stands up to follow Jinwoo. “Maybe we could have tea sometime.”
“A politician,” Seungyoon replies, giving Seunghoon a wink. “You’ll make a suitable king.”
Taehyun laughs again and he doesn’t miss the glare Seunghoon gives him as he’s walking out.
“For what it’s worth, I like you,” Mino grins, giving Seungyoon a pat on the arm before, he, too stands up. “I’d stay but I really would rather not.” He walks to Taehyun’s seat and leans down to whisper that he and Seulgi are going to visit the Waif pond, if Taehyun wants to come. When Taehyun shakes his head, Mino shrugs. “See you for another tedious session tomorrow, your highnesses.”
Mino’s fading footsteps echo in the silence between Taehyun and Seungyoon. Taehyun supposes Seungyoon would probably like to be alone now, so he gives him a curt nod and moves to stand up.
“Would you like to take a walk with me?”
Taehyun is frozen for a second. “Pardon?”
“Your garden is stunning at night,” Seungyoon glances out the window before turning to look at him again. “Would you like to take a walk with me?
Taehyun thinks there are a hundred reasons to say no, half of which concern his safety (the Vodan prince made it very clear he can’t stand him), but curiosity gets the better of Taehyun, and maybe he’s also a little hopeful that he can somehow mend their strained acquaintance.
His feet take him outside the palace walls, beside Seungyoon as they stroll under the blanket of stars - what could have been a relaxing scene if Taehyun isn’t too on edge. A few steps behind them, Taehyun and Seungyoon’s personal guards follow stealthily, but that doesn’t ease Taehyun’s nerves.
They don’t say anything to each other, and Taehyun glances at Seungyoon whenever they pass by night torches to gauge the expression on his face. He gathers nothing except that Seungyoon must really like trees (and his features are more striking in flickering light). Seungyoon’s silence makes him wonder why he even wanted to walk with him, but Taehyun can’t bring himself to say anything either. It’s all very confusing.
They’re across the pavilion at the heart of the garden, when Seungyoon suddenly stops walking. Taehyun glances over his shoulder just to make sure the guards are still there, a shaky exhale escaping his lips when he spots the silhouettes out of the corner of his eye. It’s a little too much to think Seungyoon would ever risk harming him in his own palace, but one can never be too cautious, especially if one is royalty.
When he turns to Seungyoon again, however, he doesn’t expect the look the prince gives him.
“Forgive me,” Seungyoon begins to say, remorseful. “It was ill-mannered of me to behave the way I did the first time we met. I let my emotions get the better of me, but that does not excuse my insolence. I’m sorry, your highness.”
“Uhh,” Taehyun draws a blank, still unsure if this is a joke, a prelude to a string of accusations Seungyoon plans on throwing at him. But there is no trace of spite on Seungyoon’s face, so Taehyun decides to give him the benefit of the doubt.
“I didn’t take it to heart,” Taehyun says. “You need not apologize. I cannot assure you of what others think but I hope you know that I respect you. As the prince of Voda and as a human being. I see no war prisoners here.”
Seungyoon’s expression reads guilt, but he smiles anyway. “I should have known you’re an honorable man from the books you’ve read. Not a lot of people in your kingdom take an interest in getting to know mine.”
“It’s their loss,” Taehyun replies, returning Seungyoon’s smile. His unease ebbs a little. “From what I’ve gathered, Voda is wonderful. It’s always been a dream of mine to visit one day.”
“Our castle doors are open for your highness, in return for your hospitality, and as a token of my sincere apology for misjudging you, Prince Taehyun.”
Something swells in Taehyun’s chest and on instinct, he holds out a hand. This is a much better introduction than the last time. “Just Taehyun.”
Seungyoon looks down at his outstretched hand and takes it. Taehyun tries not to gasp at the sensation of his cold, calloused palm, but gentle all the same. There are a hundred stories it holds, Taehyun can tell.
“Then I’m just Seungyoon.” He doesn’t let go of Taehyun’s hand right away, gives it a light squeeze that shoots warmth up Taehyun’s palm, travels all the way to his face. Thankfully, the night hides the blush on his cheeks.
Taehyun withdraws his hand first before his knees grow any weaker at the prolonged contact. Without a word, he begins walking again, and Seungyoon quietly falls in step beside him. “Does this mean you’re going to apologize to Jinwoo for ruining his dinner?”
“No,” Seungyoon shakes his head, already biting back a smirk. “It made you laugh, didn’t it?”
“It’s the best time I remember spending with those three.”
“Then Prince Jinwoo’s wrath was worth it,” Seungyoon grins so openly it makes Taehyun’s stomach flutter and his hands tingle once more. He thinks he wouldn’t mind being on the receiving end of these grins on a regular basis. “Although I may have to sleep with a dagger under my pillow from now on.”
“You insulted his cat, Seungyoon,” Taehyun stops, facing him. “You should prepare two daggers.”
Seungyoon chuckles into the night, and for some reason Taehyun is reminded of the mermaids he’d read about and the sound they make when they lure fishermen at sea. It’s said to be so beautiful one cannot help but be entranced.
They head back after a while, Seungyoon graciously insisting that he doesn’t want to take any more of Taehyun’s time. Although if Taehyun is going to be honest, he doesn’t mind so much. It’s been a while since he’s found anyone a joy to talk with.
They bid each other good night at the palace foyer, and Taehyun watches Seungyoon head to the left wing where the Vodans are billeted. Taehyun nods to his guard and heads for his room with a smile plastered on his face.
His last thought before slipping into slumber is of the torch lights reflected in Seungyoon’s irises. Jinwoo is right. Seungyoon really is quite handsome.
Part Two
Word Count: 18k-ish
Rating: R
Warning: …it’s long?
Summary: Taehyun hates being a prince, until he falls in love with one. (WINNER as Princes!AU)
Author’s Note: I just want to say I’m not proficient in royalty AU, I haven’t read a lot of royalty AU fics so I’m a total noob but I tried my best! Also I realize I’m totally incapable of writing short oneshots but I hope you give this a chance anyway! Everything in this story is 100% made up. Except the feels. The feels are real. LOL.
MAP OF THE REALM (by the awesome Master Gaia kocch)
Princes are the worst.
A conclusion not many would make, blinded by the veneer of elegance and wealth and fancy robes and beautiful faces and who doesn’t like royalty? It’s those silly fairytales that cultivate the idea of “prince charming’ and brainwash everyone from childhood to think that these royals are perfect specimens on horsebacks with values like courage and valor on top of genetically handsome looks, who never lose at swordfights and are somehow always eligible.
It’s stupid. Taehyun knows as much because he has twenty years experience of having to mingle with princes and are people so far off base. Princes are conceited spoiled brats who never had to work a day in their lives, think they’re god’s gift to humankind, who prefer carriages over horses, spend their days trying to look good instead of doing anything good and by god, if any of them can actually pick up a sword without poking anyone in the eye, then it’s considered a good day.
Taehyun hates princes, most of all, because he is one. And he has to live with that embarrassment.
The sound of breaking glass fills the den and Taehyun looks up from his book, The History of the Sea Gypsies, only to find Mino and Seunghoon in another one of their stupid games that always involve destroying things, intended or not. Taehyun usually wouldn’t care, he’s used to the two always leaving a trail of destruction in their wake, but it’s his turn to host this royal brunch and they just broke a family heirloom without batting an eyelid, eyes fixed intensely at each other while beads of sweat roll down their foreheads, grunting like animals.
They’re in the middle of a war and these idiots are arm wrestling.
“That was a priceless vase,” Taehyun deadpans, his words falling on deaf ears as Mino and Seunghoon continue their match as if their lives depended on this victory. Taehyun supposes it’s always been their ‘thing’ - try to one up each other strength-wise, and he takes a little comfort in the fact that it’s perhaps to make up for what they lack in everything else, if their marks at the Royal Academy are anything to go by.
Mino’s howl pierces the quiet as he does a victory taunt over Seunghoon who is now slumped in his seat looking about ready to murder. Taehyun rolls his eyes, and he hears a small snicker from Seulgi, one of his servants and favorite. He shakes his head in disapproval and she offers him an encouraging nod as if to say just endure it. Taehyun heeds her silent advice and turns to his book again.
It’s hard to believe that a large part of the fate of The Victorem - the alliance of the four kingdoms - rely on these insipid monthly gatherings where they do nothing but eat, drink, argue, and in the case of Mino and Seunghoon, act like six year old boys. One would think that as the Crown Prince of Vatra, Taehyun would be more occupied putting into practice what he learned at the Academy in preparation to ascend into the throne one day, and yet here he is, powerless, spending time he could use to help end this war with a few of the people in the realm he dislikes the most.
Taehyun doesn’t look up from his book again until Jinwoo strides into the den with the announcement Taehyun wishes he never has to hear again.
“They are ready for us,” the prince says, giving Mino and Seunghoon a repugnant look for the mess they’ve caused in the space before turning his attention to Taehyun. He gives him a long, hard stare that has Taehyun jutting his chin out in a challenge, but Jinwoo only scoffs.
“Are you wearing that?”
Taehyun looks down at his brown tunic before he eyes Jinwoo’s forest green robe with silver trimmings - the banner colors of the Kingdom of Zemia. Jinwoo looks immaculate, as always, and Taehyun would have been enamored by him like the rest of the realm if not for his exceeding vanity. And that creepy-looking cat, Taehyun adds as an afterthought at the hairless creature purring against Jinwoo’s leg.
“Your kingdom is the wealthiest, Taehyun. At least dress like it.”
“I will wear whatever I want to wear,” Taehyun snaps back, but before he can give Jinwoo a haughty smirk, one of his servants approach him, holding up a scarlet robe with golden tassels for Taehyun to put on. Jinwoo doesn’t hide his smugness as he leaves the den, Mino and Seunghoon following him not long after. Taehyun breathes out the frustration, giving his servant a cutting look. Nonetheless, he allows her to put the robe on him.
Contrary to popular belief, there are several drawbacks to being a prince. And the biggest one is that they are relegated to the inane job of being puppets.
Five years ago, at the height of the war against the Kingdom of Voda, the general masses were distraught and paranoid, afraid that the power of The Victorem cannot protect them, not when the alliance itself was riddled with internal conflicts between the four kingdoms.
At that time, the princes were only young boys quietly attending the Royal Academy. Rumors of a fight between Prince Mino and Prince Seunghoon circulated in the four kingdoms, which only fueled the anxiety of the people. In order to quell these talks, the Victorem decided to stage an outing among the princes, to show the realm that they are not fighting, and in fact, are friends.
First it was a trip to a Metali theatre. Then a Zemian market.
The response was more immense than they had expected. People from all walks of life talked and were captivated by the princes who are all almost of the same age. It was a strange phenomenon they’ve stumbled upon. More effective than pronouncements of solidarity from the Kings were the proof that the four Crown Princes were the best of friends. They were objects of fantasy, of fairy tales. People began to care less about the moral consequences of the war and stopped questioning the intentions of The Victorem.
For a war that was being slowed down by fluctuating public opinion, it was a breakthrough for the strategists. And a dark day for Taehyun.
As soon as they saunter out into the palace gardens, they hear the chatter of conversations and laughter and the collective oohs and ahhs that fill the air. That’s Taehyun’s cue to smile widely, walking into a large tea party where they’ve invited Vatran nobles, merchants, and some farm workers, even guests from the other three kingdoms. Seunghoon is beside him, as instructed by their advisers.
The heightening tension between Vatra and Metali regarding the ownership of the River Haute that lie in between the two kingdom’s borders means that Taehyun and Seunghoon, as the respective princes, have to play nicer than usual to ease the animosity their people may feel. To show that the royal families are very much friends and the alliance is stronger than ever.
Going by the script, Taehyun playfully nudges Seunghoon’s shoulder, to which Seunghoon lets out an exaggerated laugh. In return, Seunghoon ruffles Taehyun’s hair and Taehyun winces, but tries to control his expression right away. He can already sense the people around them lapping this up. Before the day ends, most villages will be talking about how Taehyun is closest to the prince of Metali.
“I told you to keep your hands off my hair,” Taehyun hisses behind a heavy smile.
“You better play along, Taehyun. Your Father’s money is no match for our militia,” Seunghoon grins, giving his hair another ruffle, rougher, to annoy Taehyun some more. “You don’t want to be on the wrong side of this war.”
Taehyun reaches for Seunghoon’s hand on his head and tugs it down sharply. The older prince looks panicked for a moment - it’s always been Taehyun who has the tendency to rebel at these gatherings - but Taehyun only pulls him to where Mino and Jinwoo are already sitting on the circular table reserved for them under a pear tree. They smile and nod at the people they pass, accepting cheerful greetings.
Taehyun hates being no different than a marionette that puts on a show. But if it’s in the name of peace, then to play along is all he can do for now.
“General Choi believes Voda is going to surrender in less than a week,” Mino says quietly, biting into an apple and giving a little wave to two maidens who pass by with a coquettish smile. Taehyun tears his eyes away from the pie crumbs he’d been pushing around his plate to the Dravosi prince. They’re only made aware of the war’s progress during sessions with the Victorem Court - these lengthy discussions about the politics of the realm which the princes are required to attend but never to contribute - but Mino always gets information first because the General of the Victorem army is from Dravos and a close friend of Mino’s father.
If only for his generosity with secrets, Taehyun thinks Mino is tolerable.
“Their forces are too weak, and the rebels in Zemia have been incapacitated, cutting off the supply of grains to the Vodan army. Their warriors aren’t going to last long in the battlefield with no food.”
“About damn time,” Jinwoo says, stroking his cat. Taehyun grimaces when it lets out a purr directed at him that sounds a lot like a curse in feline language. He turns his attention to Jinwoo instead, detecting pride in the prince’s striking features. Taehyun can read their kingdom’s headlines now, Zemian King: responsible for victory over Voda.
Jinwoo inherited his Father’s conceit.
“Thirteen years of resistance, all for nothing. They’ve run their own kingdom to the ground because of their arrogance. How dare they think they can stand against The Victorem?”
“Arrogance?” Taehyun lets out a dry laugh before he can stop himself, putting his fork down and turning to Jinwoo. He really can’t get through any of these gatherings without flaring up at least once. “Or survival? May I remind you that it’s your kingdom that threatened their existence. Your grandfather was going to wipe Voda off the map by assimilating them into Zemia by force.”
“And it was your grandfather, Taehyun, who signed the articles of war first - killing two thousand Vodans in one day,” Seunghoon adds without looking up from his cup of tea. “Don’t act so clean, my Vatran prince. You have as much blood on your hands as the rest of us do.”
“Stop it,” Mino raises his voice, scanning the gardens. “The guests are still here.”
Taehyun grips the armrests of his chair with all the strength he should be using to punch Seunghoon in the face. Instead, he settles down and straightens his expression. Nothing good comes out of antagonizing any of the princes further, not when they never change their minds anyway.
Taehyun reaches for his own cup and takes a sip. “If anything, we should be glad the war is soon over. No more bloodshed and unnecessary spending.”
“Like I said,” Jinwoo throws Taehyun a venomous look. “They should have surrendered sooner.”
“What’s going to happen to the Vodan King?” Seunghoon asks, turning to Mino. “I hear he’s very ill.”
“I’m not sure, but I have a theory,” Mino replies, bending down as if to tell them it’s something no other soul should hear. They mimic Mino’s movement and lean closer. “Last month the Vodan King’s brother sold secrets to the Victorem army that were instrumental in breaching the wall.”
“What?” Taehyun pipes, nearly letting go of his cup. “How come we weren’t informed of this?”
“Only the Kings and the highest officials know. If you were the traitor that caused your kingdom’s defeat but you plan to rule your people, the last thing you want is for word to get out that you traded their freedom for a throne.”
“This is a war but we still live by basic ethics,” Taehyun spits, the slow burn of anger igniting his convictions. “Like the Victorem Court can ever seat a treacherous man as king?”
“You’re far too naïve, Taehyun,” Seunghoon snipes. “It’s cute.”
Taehyun glares at him, but Jinwoo is quick to speak first. “What of the King’s son? You all remember him, right? From before the war broke out?”
Taehyun faintly recalls a boy from Voda at a gathering of royals, back when the kingdoms were at peace. But he doesn’t remember his face or his name.
Mino shakes his head. “That, I do not know. No one has heard about the crown prince in a while. Some say that he’s fighting as a warrior, some say he and his queen mother fled to the sea gypsies west of Voda. He could have been a casualty of the war for all we know.”
“Poor lad,” Jinwoo offers as he sips on his tea. Taehyun sees no sympathy on his face.
Their conversation is cut short when a few nobles approach their table for a chat. Taehyun puts on a smile and tells himself for the hundredth time that day to endure it. It will all end soon.
*
Taehyun is at the high tower, crouched on the floor between a shelf and a window, sifting through a book he’d found about ancient Vodan mythology that were never taught to them at the Academy, at least not the way they were educated in the allegories of Dravos, Vatra, Zemia, and Metali.
It had been so easy for their tutors to downplay the last sovereign kingdom in their region, and only talk of its impoverished state and archaic ways to emphasize the Victorem’s superiority. But Taehyun had always believed there’s more to the secrets that lie beyond the Vodan wall. He gathers as much when he stumbles upon books on Voda - their rich culture and history.
He’s immersed in a tale about full moons and mermaids that reside in the deep waters of the Sapphire Sea when he hears the trumpets, followed by jovial cheers that have him springing to his feet, walking to the window ledge. Looking down, he sees palace workers in what seems to be a celebration. As Taehyun decides to go down and discover what the fuss is all about, Seulgi is beside him in an instant.
“Your highness,” she says, a smile enhancing her delicate features. Taehyun could tell she is brimming excitement, ready to deliver good news. “The war is over. Voda has fallen.”
At that moment, Taehyun is overcome with an emotion that doesn’t come close to that felt by the people rejoicing below. It’s a strange brand of sadness, mixed with relief. And perhaps disappointment. For the longest time, Taehyun had wanted this war to end, but never really gave much thought to who he wanted to emerge victorious.
It seems as if Seunghoon was onto something. Maybe a part of Taehyun has always been on the wrong side of this war.
*
Taehyun wakes up to sunlight seeping through his windows and a sense of exhilaration at the pit of his stomach. It’s the day the officials from the three kingdoms arrive for the Victorem Court, the first session that shall not only comprise of Dravos, Vatra, Zemia and Metali. The surrender of Voda meant allegiance to The Victorem, and today they are about to welcome the Vodans that have travelled past the now defunct wall that has separated Voda from the rest of the realm for more than a decade.
The Vodan delegation, made up of what is left of the highest royal and military officials, is set to enter Vatra for the first time in thirteen years. The whole palace had been buzzing with preparations for the past week, and while they have hosted many a Victorem Court sessions before, everybody knows this one is special. As though it is a momentous occasion in their history, an honor for the host kingdom, and it certainly shows in the lavish planning. In true Vatran fashion, everything must be perfect.
Taehyun doesn’t wait for his servants and dresses himself up with the first articles of clothing he sees, already filled with excitement as he treads down the marble steps. The Dravosi party arrived at dawn, and as much as he isn’t really looking forward to seeing Mino again, he’s eager to learn what he could about the Vodan delegation, and he has an inkling Mino would possess that information.
As expected, he sees him loitering by the kitchen where several female servants are quite flustered and mildly amused to have a prince pillaging through breakfast preparations.
“Always impatient,” Taehyun chides as he steals the piece of bread Mino is about to eat, earning him a scowl from the prince. Taehyun signals at the kitchen workers and they all scurry away, leaving the two to freely talk.
“I could say the same about you,” Mino grumbles, reaching for a bowl of fireberries that are sweetest in Vatra. “Can’t even wait until breakfast before you squeeze information out of me.”
“I am feeding you, aren’t I?”
“I can get fed anywhere, Taehyun. The secrets I hold, however, are exclusive to me.”
“Fair enough,” Taehyun takes a seat on the wooden stool across from Mino. “What do you want?”
Mino smirks, his dark eyes glinting. “Seulgi.”
Taehyun scoffs, wishing he’d poured himself a glass of water so there was something ready to throw on the prince’s face. “She is not that kind of girl and I’m insulted that you would ever think I would whore my own serv-“
“What?!” Mino chokes on a mouthful of berries, effectively cutting Taehyun short. “I do not mean in that way! I just wish to borrow her for the duration of our visit to assist me,” Mino clarifies, grabbing himself his own glass of water. “I know we barely get along but you’ve known me since we were children. I never expected you to think so low of me.”
Taehyun feels guilt rise to his throat and he doesn’t hold back an apology. “I’m sorry. It’s just… Seulgi is a friend.”
“I know,” Mino answers, his face more solemn. “I’m a Dravosi. I don’t have friends like you have here in your palace. And I thought maybe while I’m here in Vatra, Seulgi wouldn’t mind being one to me, too.”
Taehyun gives him a rare smile. Sometimes Mino isn’t bad, if he isn’t trying to destroy priceless ornaments. “Deal. In any case, that girl can take care of herself and I doubt you can touch her even if you tried.”
Mino returns the smile and pushes the bowl of berries closer to Taehyun. It’s the closest to a truce he’s ever shared with any of the other princes.
“If it’s information you want then I have a good one for you,” Mino starts, his tone more serious. Taehyun shifts in his seat and pays close attention. “The King of Voda passed away three nights ago.”
Taehyun’s eyes widen, but before he could say anything, Mino holds up a hand. “That’s not the most interesting part. It turns out the Vodan prince wasn’t in hiding, and had been, in fact, leading his own men in the war since he turned eighteen two years ago. None of the Victorem officials knew because their group worked discreetly, in the shadows. I heard they took down three Metali ships in one night by burning them down. Ask me how many warriors are in the prince’s group.”
“How many?”
“Six. Including him.”
“You’re lying,” Taehyun shakes his head. It’s not so much the unlikelihood of it all, but the fact that there is a prince in their realm that did more than sit in sessions where they never get to speak, or parade in front of people in fancy garb to maintain peace. A chill runs down his spine as Taehyun imagines himself wielding a sword and living the tales he only reads about.
“Not even General Choi can give me such information,” Mino shrugs. “It’s his squire. Quite a talent for eavesdropping and digging around.”
“Wow,” Taehyun breathes, his heart pounding for reasons he can’t quite put his finger on. “And is the Crown Prince…”
“Yes,” Mino says with a nod. “Yes, he’s coming.”
They both turn to the door when they hear the blare of trumpets that signal the arrival of yet another delegation. “My guess is Seunghoon,” Mino suggests disinterestedly, biting into another piece of bread. “You know Zemians like to be fashionably late. Jinwoo probably won’t be here until midday.”
*
Taehyun sits in between Jinwoo and Mino at the Victorem sessions, on fancy thronelike wooden chairs with their kingdoms’ insignias. None of them is nearly as interested in these proceedings as Taehyun is, and most of the time he would catch Mino dozing off, or Jinwoo scribbling away on a piece of paper to pass the time. He doesn’t even want to know what Seunghoon does.
But today he can tell they’re as keen as every individual in the Victorem Court for this session to start.
“Did you see him?” Jinwoo whispers as he settles beside him.
“The prince? No,” Taehyun answers, unable to hide the disappointment in his tone. When the Vodan party arrived earlier, they’d all been wearing navy blue hoods with the Vodan emblem, and no way to take a peek at their faces or tell the prince apart.
“I hear he’s a brutish man,” Jinwoo says with distaste. “Then again, it’s to be expected of Vodan royalty. They probably conduct themselves no better than common folk.”
Taehyun ignores Jinwoo and eyes the leaders of the court. Four thrones that seat four kings, surrounded by advisers and military officials all in their respective colors. Even to Taehyun who has grown up in the Victorem, It’s a daunting sight. Taehyun wonders with great interest how the Vodans are going to handle themselves.
Not a moment too soon, the Vodans are announced into the Great Hall, and Taehyun could almost hear a pin drop at the tense silence that envelops the large space. He fixes his eyes on the doors, a thrill coursing through his bones in anticipation.
Two men lead the pack, tall and muscular with auras that give off the impression they’ve seen far too many battles in one lifetime. Military officials, Taehyun thinks. More people enter, all looking more stern than the last. Their clothes are not so much different from the rest of the Court, but the majestic hues of cerulean, cobalt, and sapphire are foreign and exotic, certainly more intimidating than the colors Taehyun had grown up with.
Taehyun could feel the leaders tense in their seats. He, himself, is about to burst with intrigue while waiting for the mysterious prince. It’s when the Vodans suddenly disperse and neatly part into two straight lines facing each other, that Taehyun holds his breath.
The young man that walks in is every bit the prince Taehyun imagines princes should be. His dark blue tunic is almost green when hit by the sun trickling through the windows, a contrast to the pale skin that glows against the material of his clothes. Dignified, with an air of affluence and grace that could only be characteristic of royalty, no different from the princes beside him. But there’s an intensity there that he will never find in himself, or Mino or Seunghoon or Jinwoo, in his dark eyes, in the clench of his sharp jaw, in the taut line of his lips.
The Vodan prince looks like someone who has seen suffering, who has been in battles Taehyun could only dream of, but still holds his head high despite defeat. Taehyun thinks he’s never seen anyone more captivating, more breathtaking with every step he takes that doesn’t show fear or trepidation even in the presence of kings.
The delegation walks to the farthest end of the Hall, all eyes glued to them as they take their seats. Taehyun notes how different the Court looks - how complete it somehow feels.
Once they’ve settled down, General Choi walks to the platform in the center of the hall and begins his speech about the triumph of The Victorem. Taehyun, however, doesn’t take his eyes off the prince, who shows no signs of discomfort despite the general’s narration of the alliance forces’ victory.
There’s thunderous applause when the man finishes, and Taehyun squirms in his seat when one of the Vodan delegates stands up.
“Prince Seungyoon of the Kingdom of Voda,” the man announces and silence cloaks the hall, all eyes on the prince once again.
Seungyoon, Taehyun repeats the name under his breath as he watches the prince rise from his seat and walk toward the thrones to bow before the Kings. They all return it with curt nods.
“Your majesties,” the prince starts to say, and there’s a shiver that runs down Taehyun’s spine when his voice fills all corners of the Great Hall. There’s something about him that definitely commands everyone’s attention, more than the unfamiliarity of his presence or the depth of his voice.
Seungyoon turns around once, his eyes seemingly scanning every face. Taehyun gasps quietly when he thinks they’ve made eye contact, but it’s much too short.
“And all the reputable members of the Victorem Court,” he continues. “I humbly come before you today to acknowledge our kingdom’s surrender. It was a war none of us truly wanted. We, Vodans, only sought autonomy - the independence to govern our territory, our people, and our pride.”
At that moment, a low hiss fills the hall and frowns appear on the Kings’ faces. Taehyun could feel his heart beating faster, suddenly worried for the Vodan prince. But before the hiss turns into anything else, Seungyoon speaks again.
“But do not misunderstand - Voda is prepared to enter The Victorem as a consequence of our loss, but also an acknowledgment that times have changed. There are tremendous advantages to being part of this esteemed alliance. There is a reason why The Victorem is feared even across our seas.”
Taehyun nearly scoffs at the smug Kings. It seems Seungyoon is an eloquent politician, too.
“I only ask that you afford our kingdom the same rights and privileges as Dravos, Vatra, Zemia, and Metali, and in return, we shall fulfill the same duties and obligations. Treat Vodans with the same respect that you would give your own people, and I can vow on my honor as the future King of Voda, that we will be compliant, and no war will befall this realm once more.”
“The terms of the submission shall hold,” the Dravosi King says. “We only seek for Voda to be an ally that will possess the same aspirations for the realm as the rest of The Victorem. Together, we can make the alliance of the five kingdoms not only the most flourished, but the most formidable in all of the seven seas.”
“Then you have my loyalty and my word that Voda will be part of the new Victorem,” Seungyoon declares, looking over at his delegation. Taehyun sees something in his expression change, almost imperceptible if one isn’t paying attention. Taehyun instinctively edges forward in his seat.
“However, there is another thing I wish to request of the Court.”
“Speak, young prince.”
“I have been made aware that my Uncle is currently hiding in Metali. Give him to me, your majesties, and he will be dealt with by the Vodan law for committing treason against our King.”
“Damn,” Jinwoo whispers to Taehyun as murmurs fill the hall once more. “He’s a feisty one, I’ll give him that.”
Jinwoo’s statement snaps Taehyun out of his trance and he’s all too aware of the commotion starting. It doesn’t bode well for the prince.
“Silence!” General Choi bellows, glaring at Seungyoon. “Prince Seungyoon, you are out of bounds. This accusation-“
“It is not an accusation, my Lord. Rather, a plea.” Seungyoon’s voice comes out strained, the first time Taehyun is hearing some composure leave him. “I understand that I am too young to ascend the throne my Father left behind, I do not even know where to begin picking up the pieces of a kingdom that has been ravaged by war for thirteen years. But I am here now, at your mercy. I implore you to respect my father’s dying wish that I be his successor. This war that we did not start has taken away everything from my people. Do not entrust our kingdom to that cowardly traitor who will not think twice about betraying your highnesses, the way he betrayed his own blood, if the situation were beneficial for him.”
“Shit. I know that look,” Mino says quietly, looking as if he’s ready to flee. “Choi is not pleased.”
Before Seungyoon could respond, an unfamiliar voice booms in the hall.
“General. Take a step back from the Prince,” a large man from the Vodan delegation speaks suddenly, a hand hovered over the hilt of his sword.
It’s hard to decipher the Kings’ expressions after that and everything is a blur when members of the Court are talking over each other and the Dravosi General looks as though he could beat up Seungyoon right then and there. Even the Vodans are up on their feet, ready to protect their prince in case things get out of hand.
The next thing Taehyun knows, they’re being ushered out the doors of the Great Hall. He looks over at Seungyoon and the last he sees of him is how he’s hauled behind some of the Vodan guards. Taehyun finds himself hoping fervently that no harm comes to him.
*
Taehyun walks the cobblestone steps up the tower, running on what little sleep he could get the night before. Certainly not from the lack of trying. He had decided to slip into his chambers as early as was allowed so he wouldn’t have to be stuck entertaining the princes all night. And since the Vodans kept themselves scarce after what happened at the Great Hall, opting to stay within their allotted section of the Vatran palace, Taehyun didn’t have any reason to stick around.
He’d tried several things to expense his energy: read the most unexciting book he could get his hands on, practice calligraphy, he’d even taken to looking up at the night sky until the drowsiness comes, and yet he still found himself tossing and turning in bed, chasing elusive sleep.
The truth is, burned in his mind was the image of Prince Seungyoon talking to the kings with bravado he had not seen in any other high ranking official, not even General Choi. It made Taehyun wonder about how Seungyoon was raised as a prince. Vodans are known for their integrity and an unbending sense of virtue. He’d expected Seungyoon to be stubborn as a result, but he did not expect him to be fearless. Or stupid, as Jinwoo would probably describe Seungyoon’s behavior at the Court.
As soon as Taehyun reaches the library, he breathes in the scent of old books and parchment and smiles to himself. No matter how many times he comes back to this place, it doesn’t lose its charm. It’s certainly his sanctuary away from the mundane tasks of a prince. Here, he can be anyone he desires while exploring different worlds in his mind.
He approaches the shelf where the book on Vodan Mythology he has yet to finish awaits, but Taehyun suddenly stops in surprise when he sees a figure hunkered down, on his favorite spot.
Prince Seungyoon is surrounded by several books, stacked haphazardly or strewn wide open, Taehyun could feel his eyebrows twitch at the disarray his usually neat space has become. The irritation only lasts about a second before nervous anticipation washes over him.
Seungyoon has one leg outstretched, the other folded, his thigh holding the book up. His windswept hair covers his eyebrows; a finger runs across the edge of the cover repeatedly, like an endearing habit.
Taehyun considers leaving before Seungyoon senses his presence, but he’s too late to take a small step back, because the Vodan prince looks up from the page he is reading.
“Hello,” Seungyoon says casually, his brown eyes peering up at Taehyun. The morning sunlight casts a shadow of eyelashes over his cheeks and Taehyun sucks in a breath at how stunning he looks up close. Taehyun never expected he’d still be floored by anyone else’s looks, not when he’s constantly surrounded by princes the people have collectively deemed as the most attractive men in the realm. Sure, Seungyoon doesn’t have Jinwoo’s eyes, or Seunghoon’s cheekbones, or Mino’s nose, but Seungyoon has a strong jaw and full lips that curve into a captivating smirk. There’s an easy confidence to him that is undoubtedly royalty, isn’t excessive, very, very charming.
“Hello,” Taehyun says back, hoping he doesn’t look like the gawking fool he is in his head. He would ask Seungyoon why he’s there sitting on his special spot, but his voice fails him.
“Prince Taehyun,” Seungyoon says after a beat more of silence, pushing the book aside and rising to his feet. Taehyun’s stomach lurches at the sound of his name, and perhaps at the fact that Seungyoon knows who he is. Being as tall as him, he faces Taehyun easily, their eyes leveled with each other without effort. “I get the feeling I’m invading your territory. I apologize.”
“This high tower is open to everyone, especially to guests.”
“Do guests get mark the precious books, too?”
“What are you-” Taehyun pauses, biting down on his lower lip at the realization. His eyes flit to the books spread on the floor.
Following his line of sight, Seungyoon picks one up and opens to the last page. Taehyun watches with a flush at the way Seungyoon thumbs over the surface of the page where Taehyun had inscribed his name. It’s a habit Taehyun doesn’t think much of, a system he began when he was twelve because he sometimes forgets which books he’d already read - and so he marked the books as a reminder.
“It’s a beautiful name,” Seungyoon remarks, looking up. “And this symbol?”
“Fire,” Taehyun replies, tries not to dwell on the compliment about his name. “For Vatra.”
“Of course. And I suppose if I were allowed to leave my name on these books I’d add a symbol for water. Voda.”
“You’re welcome to do so if you want. I wouldn’t stop you.”
“Vatran hospitality is warmer than I anticipated. Even from their crown prince,” Seungyoon snaps the book shut, the sound echoing in the library. The atmosphere shifts as Taehyun notes a lace of sarcasm in Seungyoon’s tone. His body tenses, like it does when something feels off. True enough, Seungyoon’s smile disappears, his face darkening, and Taehyun tries not to shrink under his glare.
“Have I done anything to offend you, your highness?” Taehyun speaks to slice through the tension.
Seungyoon’s chuckle is acerbic to his ears. “Let us not pretend you think of me any higher than you would your servants. After all, we Vodans are just war prisoners to you.”
Taehyun frowns, not quite understanding where Seungyoon’s hostility comes from. As far as Taehyun knows, they’ve welcomed the Vodans with utmost sincerity. “You must be mistaken-”
Before he could finish, Seungyoon takes a step forward and suddenly he’s too close for Taehyun’s comfort. He gulps, feeling a mixture of panic and something else entirely he can’t distinguish. For a few seconds they just hold each other’s gaze, only broken off when Seungyoon pushes the book he’s holding into Taehyun’s hands.
“Relax, your highness. I’m unarmed,” Seungyoon says, his eyes dropping to Taehyun’s mouth, lingering there for a beat too long before he steps back. Taehyun feels heat rise to his cheeks, humiliated that the prince had sensed his nerves, and that he isn’t more composed in his presence.
He searches for something to say, his pride on the line and yet his voice betrays him again. It isn’t like him. He never experienced this predicament with the other princes. In fact, he’s always been known to have the sharpest tongue.
Seungyoon runs a hand over his tunic, squaring his shoulders before meeting Taehyun’s eyes once more. “Tell your King and his friends that I will not be reduced to a puppet the Victorem can dangle around to deceive people that all is well. Not when you lot don’t even have the decency to give me what is rightfully mine.”
Seungyoon’s words echo in the silence of the library, as loud as the hatred in his voice. This is not how Taehyun had imagined meeting the Vodan prince. He foolishly thought they’d be kindred spirits somehow, having found someone he sees himself aspiring to be.
Taehyun could only watch wordlessly as Seungyoon turns for the door, letting out the breath he’d been holding. He had always thought himself better than the monarchs in The Victorem, and it takes a lot to shatter what little dignity he has in that fact. But over the course of minutes, and without needing many words, Seungyoon had unraveled him for the feeble prince that he is.
Taehyun cannot argue with the truth Seungyoon speaks.
“I’m sorry,” he hears himself say, looking down at the book in his hand. It’s the book he’d been reading. What a coincidence.
“What did you say?”
Taehyun looks over his shoulder and sees Seungyoon leaning by the doorframe with an unreadable expression on his face. He didn’t think Seungyoon would hear him, his weak and cowardly apology was only meant for the wind.
“I’m sorry,” he repeats.
“For what? Be specific,” Seungyoon challenges. “For starting the war more than a decade ago? Invading my kingdom? Threatening my throne - what?”
“I’m sorry about your Father,” Taehyun says, surprised at the sincerity in his own voice. “It must be difficult to lose him at this time.”
Taehyun senses the subtle change in Seungyoon’s demeanor - he’s still guarded, but his face softens by a fraction. He doesn’t say anything and just looks at Taehyun like he’s trying to figure him out, read between the lines. But Taehyun doesn’t mean anything else other than he’s truly sorry, and he wishes things were different.
“He was a great king,” Seungyoon finally says, his voice filled with respect and a hint of longing. “An even better man.”
Taehyun wishes he could say more, but Seungyoon doesn’t wait for his reply and turns to leave, his footsteps sounding eerily distant as Taehyun sags against the wall, feeling all the energy drained out of him.
*
The next Court sessions drag on without a conclusion, and Taehyun is starting to get frustrated at how obstinate the Kings are when Seungyoon’s request is reasonable enough. The Vodan adviser to the deceased King is known as one of the most brilliant thinkers in the realm, and also Seungyoon’s loyal godfather, capable enough to be interim ruler until Seungyoon is of age to be King.
But Taehyun isn’t so naïve to think there aren’t politics behind this, and perhaps all these sessions are being held to put up a façade of impartiality, but are designed to dissuade Seungyoon from fighting for his place. Even Taehyun who had seen importance to attending the Victorem Court even when he never contributes to the dialogue finds the debates exhausting now.
Seungyoon, on the other hand, seems as steadfast as ever, which is admirable, if not moving. Witnessing passion and fire in a prince isn’t a common occurrence for Taehyun. He only wishes he could have had the opportunity to meet Seungyoon in a different circumstance.
They make eye contact at the fourth session, after Taehyun yawns while listening to General Choi recount, for what seems like the hundredth time, how he had led the forces to win the war. Taehyun’s eyes stray to the Vodan delegation unknowingly, only to see Seungyoon already looking at him.
Taehyun snaps his mouth shut, mortified at his un-princelike behavior, and he thinks he sees a faint, amused smile peeking at the edges of Seungyoon’s usually tight lips. It makes Taehyun’s neck heat up in embarrassment, but Seungyoon had already looked away when Taehyun tries for a more dignified look.
It’s mid-afternoon when the session ends, and Taehyun quickly gets up to avoid running into Seungyoon in the corridors, (they hadn’t talked again after that unfortunate first meeting at the tower), and maybe escape from the other princes before he lets them drag him into spending quality time at the courtyard. He’d already had a close call yesterday because Seunghoon was bored and somehow the prick thinks it’s less fun without Taehyun to annoy.
“Why does the Vodan prince keep staring at you?”
Taehyun is already halfway to his chambers when Jinwoo steps in front of him with his trademark devious scowl that people often mistake for a delightful smirk because they can’t accept that someone with an angelic face can actually be the devil’s spawn. Nonetheless, Taehyun rolls his eyes. Seungyoon looked at him once and already Jinwoo is asking why the attention isn’t on him.
“What?”
Jinwoo narrows his eyes, arms crossed. “Prince Seungyoon keeps staring at you. You haven’t noticed?”
“He doesn’t stare at me,” Taehyun frowns. Jinwoo must be exaggerating.
The older prince sighs, patting Taehyun’s shoulder.”You might not know this because of your questionable taste but Prince Seungyoon is quite handsome, so I’ve taken a liking to looking at him out of boredom. Believe me, he’s always stealing glances at you every session.”
Taehyun blinks in confusion, he hadn’t noticed at all - nor can he think of any reason why. Perhaps Seungyoon is still angry at him for what happened at the tower?
“I don’t understand either,” Jinwoo continues, reading the expression on Taehyun’s face. “Unless you’re secretly friends and have been spending time with him behind our backs. Is this why you don’t meet with us anymore? I’m a little hurt.” Jinwoo fakes a frown and Taehyun can’t help but let out a dry laugh.
“You don’t want to spend time with me any more than necessary. And I’m not friends with the Vodan prince. We barely even acknowledge each other.”
“If you say so,” Jinwoo shrugs. Taehyun takes that as the end of this strange conversation, but before he could leave, Jinwoo speaks again. “I invited him to a private dinner tonight with Seunghoon and Mino. I thought it would be nice for us to get to know each other. If you can grit your teeth long enough to last a meal, you’re welcome to join us.”
“Wait. Prince Seungyoon agreed to this dinner?”
“Of course. He wouldn’t turn down the prince of Zemia.” And with that, Jinwoo walks away, leaving Taehyun to wonder what kind of hell Jinwoo had just arranged. If his conversation with Seungyoon at the tower is any indication, Seungyoon is not fond of the princes at all.
And if only for that, Taehyun is definitely coming.
*
Taehyun couldn’t be sure what he’s secretly laughing at more, the appalled look on Jinwoo’s face after Seungyoon insinuated that his cat is ugly or Mino’s tortured grimace as he chews on a Vodan candy made of seaweeds Seungyoon had ‘graciously’ offered. Maybe it’s the fake, diplomatic smile Seunghoon is forced to put on after Seungyoon made a snide joke about Metali’s penchant for hiding treacherous uncles or how Seungyoon declared the best food in Vatra tasteless, making all his servants gasp in offense.
Regardless, Taehyun is hiding his face behind his dinner napkin, trying so hard not to make noise as he wheezes in between chokes of laughter, because everything about tonight is funnier than that time Seunghoon fell into a puddle of mud behind Mino’s palace and Taehyun remembered laughing at that for a whole hour.
Knowing this is inappropriate behavior, he bites the insides of his cheeks to stop himself, and it takes a lot of effort before he manages a straight face and pulls down his napkin. When he does, however, he’s met by the baffled faces of the princes, save for Seungyoon who’s looking down at his plate, suspiciously looking like he’s also about to laugh.
“What, pray tell, is funny?” Seunghoon asks across from him, his displeasure evident in the scowl he wears.
Taehyun sucks in his lips and shakes his head. “You don’t want me to answer that.”
“Well,” Jinwoo rises from his seat, dabbing his mouth with his napkin. Taehyun claps a hand over his mouth when he accidentally lets out a chortle at seeing Seungyoon make a face when Jinwoo picks up his cat from the chair beside him. Jinwoo’s ears are tinged pink and he looks about ready to explode. “I think this dinner is over. I’ve certainly had enough.”
“It was an honor and a pleasure to share a meal with you, Prince Seungyoon,” Seunghoon says before he stands up to follow Jinwoo. “Maybe we could have tea sometime.”
“A politician,” Seungyoon replies, giving Seunghoon a wink. “You’ll make a suitable king.”
Taehyun laughs again and he doesn’t miss the glare Seunghoon gives him as he’s walking out.
“For what it’s worth, I like you,” Mino grins, giving Seungyoon a pat on the arm before, he, too stands up. “I’d stay but I really would rather not.” He walks to Taehyun’s seat and leans down to whisper that he and Seulgi are going to visit the Waif pond, if Taehyun wants to come. When Taehyun shakes his head, Mino shrugs. “See you for another tedious session tomorrow, your highnesses.”
Mino’s fading footsteps echo in the silence between Taehyun and Seungyoon. Taehyun supposes Seungyoon would probably like to be alone now, so he gives him a curt nod and moves to stand up.
“Would you like to take a walk with me?”
Taehyun is frozen for a second. “Pardon?”
“Your garden is stunning at night,” Seungyoon glances out the window before turning to look at him again. “Would you like to take a walk with me?
Taehyun thinks there are a hundred reasons to say no, half of which concern his safety (the Vodan prince made it very clear he can’t stand him), but curiosity gets the better of Taehyun, and maybe he’s also a little hopeful that he can somehow mend their strained acquaintance.
His feet take him outside the palace walls, beside Seungyoon as they stroll under the blanket of stars - what could have been a relaxing scene if Taehyun isn’t too on edge. A few steps behind them, Taehyun and Seungyoon’s personal guards follow stealthily, but that doesn’t ease Taehyun’s nerves.
They don’t say anything to each other, and Taehyun glances at Seungyoon whenever they pass by night torches to gauge the expression on his face. He gathers nothing except that Seungyoon must really like trees (and his features are more striking in flickering light). Seungyoon’s silence makes him wonder why he even wanted to walk with him, but Taehyun can’t bring himself to say anything either. It’s all very confusing.
They’re across the pavilion at the heart of the garden, when Seungyoon suddenly stops walking. Taehyun glances over his shoulder just to make sure the guards are still there, a shaky exhale escaping his lips when he spots the silhouettes out of the corner of his eye. It’s a little too much to think Seungyoon would ever risk harming him in his own palace, but one can never be too cautious, especially if one is royalty.
When he turns to Seungyoon again, however, he doesn’t expect the look the prince gives him.
“Forgive me,” Seungyoon begins to say, remorseful. “It was ill-mannered of me to behave the way I did the first time we met. I let my emotions get the better of me, but that does not excuse my insolence. I’m sorry, your highness.”
“Uhh,” Taehyun draws a blank, still unsure if this is a joke, a prelude to a string of accusations Seungyoon plans on throwing at him. But there is no trace of spite on Seungyoon’s face, so Taehyun decides to give him the benefit of the doubt.
“I didn’t take it to heart,” Taehyun says. “You need not apologize. I cannot assure you of what others think but I hope you know that I respect you. As the prince of Voda and as a human being. I see no war prisoners here.”
Seungyoon’s expression reads guilt, but he smiles anyway. “I should have known you’re an honorable man from the books you’ve read. Not a lot of people in your kingdom take an interest in getting to know mine.”
“It’s their loss,” Taehyun replies, returning Seungyoon’s smile. His unease ebbs a little. “From what I’ve gathered, Voda is wonderful. It’s always been a dream of mine to visit one day.”
“Our castle doors are open for your highness, in return for your hospitality, and as a token of my sincere apology for misjudging you, Prince Taehyun.”
Something swells in Taehyun’s chest and on instinct, he holds out a hand. This is a much better introduction than the last time. “Just Taehyun.”
Seungyoon looks down at his outstretched hand and takes it. Taehyun tries not to gasp at the sensation of his cold, calloused palm, but gentle all the same. There are a hundred stories it holds, Taehyun can tell.
“Then I’m just Seungyoon.” He doesn’t let go of Taehyun’s hand right away, gives it a light squeeze that shoots warmth up Taehyun’s palm, travels all the way to his face. Thankfully, the night hides the blush on his cheeks.
Taehyun withdraws his hand first before his knees grow any weaker at the prolonged contact. Without a word, he begins walking again, and Seungyoon quietly falls in step beside him. “Does this mean you’re going to apologize to Jinwoo for ruining his dinner?”
“No,” Seungyoon shakes his head, already biting back a smirk. “It made you laugh, didn’t it?”
“It’s the best time I remember spending with those three.”
“Then Prince Jinwoo’s wrath was worth it,” Seungyoon grins so openly it makes Taehyun’s stomach flutter and his hands tingle once more. He thinks he wouldn’t mind being on the receiving end of these grins on a regular basis. “Although I may have to sleep with a dagger under my pillow from now on.”
“You insulted his cat, Seungyoon,” Taehyun stops, facing him. “You should prepare two daggers.”
Seungyoon chuckles into the night, and for some reason Taehyun is reminded of the mermaids he’d read about and the sound they make when they lure fishermen at sea. It’s said to be so beautiful one cannot help but be entranced.
They head back after a while, Seungyoon graciously insisting that he doesn’t want to take any more of Taehyun’s time. Although if Taehyun is going to be honest, he doesn’t mind so much. It’s been a while since he’s found anyone a joy to talk with.
They bid each other good night at the palace foyer, and Taehyun watches Seungyoon head to the left wing where the Vodans are billeted. Taehyun nods to his guard and heads for his room with a smile plastered on his face.
His last thought before slipping into slumber is of the torch lights reflected in Seungyoon’s irises. Jinwoo is right. Seungyoon really is quite handsome.
Part Two