Blessed ch. 17
Title: Blessed
Pairing: KyuJong/YoungSaeng, HyunJoong/JungMin
Chapter: 17/?
Rating: R
Summary: To be blessed, is to walk with a deity's hand on your shoulder..
A/N: AU. Ongoing RP with renichifreak
KyuJong was startled awake at the sound of someone knocking on the door. Before he had a chance to move or respond, the door was opening and in the doorway stood HyoYeon. Her eyes went wide as dinner plates and she let out a squeak before turning and slamming the door shut.
The door slamming woke YoungSaeng instantly. Looking around, his wide eyes fell on KyuJong, who was staring at the door. "What happened, Kyu yah?" he asked, wincing noticeably as he sat up. "Is everything okay?"
"We have a visitor it seems," KyuJong chuckled as he turned to him. "Are you okay?" He asked, seeing the wince.
"I'm fine, KyuJong ah," YoungSaeng reassured him. "It aches more than I thought it would, but-" He blushed before looking at KyuJong with a smile. "It was more than worth it."
"Just let me know if gets to be too much," KyuJong smiled softly, leaning in to kiss him. "Get dressed, I think HyoYeon's here to take us to the elder." He slipped off the bed and started to pull on his discarded clothes.
Nodding, YoungSaeng slipped out of bed and gathered his own clothes, slipping them on. It took a bit longer than usual since he couldn't stop his eyes from wandering back to his...were they lovers now? together, certainly, but...
"Um, KyuJong ah, what does this make us now...?" he asked a bit nervously.
Sliding the shirt over his head, KyuJong gave him a puzzled look with a smile. "That depends.. what do you want us to be?" He mused, closing the distance between them.
"I'm not really sure...wouldn't that make us lovers?" he asked sowly. "It sounds nice, but I don't know..."
"Lovers would be appropriate," KyuJong smiled, smoothing down YoungSaeng's mussed hair. His attention was diverted as there was another soft knock on the door. "We can discuss it later if you want, but we shouldn't keep the elder waiting."
Smiling, YoungSaeng nodded and finished dressing before moving to the door and opening it, seeing HyoYeon on the other side. Bowing respectfully, he opened the door further to let her in.
"KyuJong," she smiled, giving YoungSaeng a passing glance. She motioned out into the room. "The elder has returned and will see you now."
"Thank you HyoYeon, please show us the way," he nodded politely and moved to the door, taking YoungSaeng's hand as he passed and led him from the room.
YoungSaeng allowed himself to be led through the halls to where the elder was waiting. He took the time to take in the beautiful structure and as well as the route they were taking, knowing that he would need to be able to navigate around the building.
Glancing at him a few times as they went, KyuJong had to smile at the expression on YoungSaeng's face. He squeezed YoungSaeng's hand as HyoYeon was opening a door in front of them and showing them inside. The room was a small study, largely occupied by a desk in which a man in his middling years was seated. The man was making notes and barely registered their presence.
Bowing politely, KyuJong approached the desk, taking YoungSaeng by the shoulder and leading him forward. "Elder, I am sorry to bother you, but I bring some disturbing news and would seek your counsel."
YoungSaeng yelped quietly as he was urged forward, staring at the man with wide eyes before bowing a deep 90 degrees. "Um, th-thank you for accepting us here, Sir...It has been a very eventful journey..."
The elder looked up, glancing at the both of them before returning to his notes. "You may speak," he replied. KyuJong frowned, there was something... odd going on. He motioned to YoungSaeng to take a seat. Telling the whole story (minus the more private details), KyuJong explained everything he had seen and his theories and helped YoungSaeng explain about what had happened in the village to him. When they had finished the story, KyuJong looked at the elder expectantly.
The elder finally sat down his pen and looked up again. Folding his hands on the desk, he stared at YoungSaeng for a long moment before finally turning to KyuJong. "The Formless One is only a myth. You have been tricked by some lowly village street rat into believing some wild drawn up story just so you would take him with you."
Whenever the Elder would look his way, YoungSaeng could not stop the chill from taking over his body, lifting his hands to rub at his arms at one point.
"Sir.. I assure you, everything-" KyuJong started, but the elder waved his hand in dismissal, cutting him off.
"You are welcome to stay here for the night of course, I can not refuse a disciple. But you will receive no help or support from the other's here, and I would suggest you keep this... story to yourselves," the elder motioned to the door. "You are dismissed."
Fuming, KyuJong grabbed YoungSaeng's hand to pull him up. "I am disappointed that an elder would be so quick to dismiss something so potentially dangerous, I will be speaking to the Order Council about your actions here, Elder." KyuJong bit back any more scathing remarks and turned to leave, pulling YoungSaeng along.
Listening to how easily the man was able to discount everything they-he-had gone through, caught him off guard. When KyuJong grabbed him and pulled him out of the office, YoungSaeng winced at the pressure. He said nothing because he doubted the man even realized just how tight his grip was.
HyoYeon was waiting out in the hall, she opened her mouth to say something but KyuJong brushed by. His expression was dark, matching his irritated thoughts. How stupid could this man be?
The further they got from the door, KyuJong started to calm. Relaxing his grip on YoungSaeng and sighed heavily. "I must apologize for his behavior, that was uncalled for. I don't know why how he could so casually dismiss what we told him."
Once the grip had finally relaxed, YoungSaeng sighed and gently pulled his wrist back, rubbing at it to relieve the soreness. "KyuJong, was I the only one feeling a chill in there...?" he asked slowly, unsure how to phrase what he was trying to say.
"No.. something feels wrong here," KyuJong shook his head and glanced down at YoungSaeng rubbing his wrist. "I'm sorry... did I hurt you?"
Stopping the action, YoungSaeng smiled. "It's fine, KyuJong ah. Don't worry about it."
Wrapping his arm about his shoulder, KyuJong continued to lead him back to the room. "Let's just ignore what he said, relax and sleep for the night and then head out first thing in the morning. You'll be happy to know there's a washroom in our room, you can take a bath."
Smiling, YoungSaeng nodded, but there was still something about the Elder that bothered him. Something prickling on the edge of his senses, but he couldn't figure out just what it was.
"I'll let you bathe first since you didn't get to at our last stop like you wanted," YoungSaeng offered, leaning into the body beside him.
"Will you keep me company?" KyuJong relaxed a little at seeing his smile. He could tell that YoungSaeng was still bothered though, his lack of enthusiasm for the bath was evidence of that.
His smile softened at the question. "Of course I will," YoungSaeng answered, deciding to push his concerns to the back of his mind and enjoy the night as KyuJong had suggested.
They reached the room and KyuJong opened the door for him. The others were still in their rooms. "I'll just grab a change of clothes," KyuJong leaned in to kiss YoungSaeng's cheek and went to their room to dig out clean clothes then returned to the main room. He motioned to YoungSaeng to follow him into the washroom where a very large basin was set in the floor. "Hmm.. room for two," he mused, peering at YoungSaeng as he began to fill it.
At KyuJong's musing, YoungSaeng paused before a smile slid onto his face. Turning and leaving the room, he quickly returned with a change of clothes.
Chuckling, KyuJong undressed and lay his clothes in a pile on the floor. He tested the water to make sure it wasn't too hot and slowly eased in while it was still filling.
Once the basin was filled, YoungSaeng found himself undressing and climbing in as well, taking a seat in front of KyuJong and leaning back into the man's chest.
Wrapping his arms around YoungSaeng, KyuJong pressed his lips to his bare shoulder. "It's nice to have you all to myself," he murmured.
"I don't have any complaints, either," YoungSaeng replied as his eyes closed, the tension that had built since entering the Elder's study slowly beginning to leave him.
"So things have changed dramatically for you since leaving your little village just a few days ago," KyuJong rested his chin on YoungSaeng's shoulder, softly stroking his arms. "How do you feel?"
YoungSaeng found himself smiling, bringing a hand behind him to curl around KyuJong's neck, fingers playing with his hair. "I feel amazing. My best friend is with me and found someone who will treat him well after so long. I'm learning new things, seeing new sights that I never thought I'd ever see." He paused and brought his head back to rest against KyuJong's shoulder. "And I found someone who's willing to risk his life for me."
"Gladly risk his life," KyuJong smiled and leaned his cheek against the side of YoungSaeng's head. "I've been thinking... about when this is all over and you're safe..." he sighed and closed his eyes, not sure how to continue.
"Hmm?" YoungSaeng asked, curious when KyuJong paused.
"I'm going to leave the Order," he said quietly, staring at the wall. It was something he had thought about when given a free moment. He loved YoungSaeng, and there was no place for him in his life within the confines of the Order. It wasn't unusual for member's to take lover's, but often went months without seeing them. Truthfully, that guiding sense within him told him it would be the right decision.
YoungSaeng's eyes shot open as he quickly turned to stare at KyuJong in shock. "What?! But why? You love the Order. I can see it in your eyes whenever you speak of it," he protested.
"But I love you more," KyuJong replied, stroking YoungSaeng's cheek and turning to look at him. "Life as a disciple has been rewarding, but it leaves me with little time for myself. I could be gone for months at a time and never see you. I can still be faithful to my deity, but... I don't think I was meant to devote my life to him."
He listened carefully to KyuJong as he spoke, nodding here and there. He was unable to stop his heart from jumping into his throat at the statement, though and found himself hugging KyuJong tightly. "Just don't do anything rash, okay?" he whispered.
"Me do something rash? Never." KyuJong chuckled and leaned in to kiss YoungSaeng on the temple. "Besides, what would you do with yourself if I wasn't there to take care of you?"
"Probably get into enough trouble that you'd have no choice but to come back...or torment Hyun and JungMin ah," YoungSaeng chuckled.
"If I left you alone anywhere near those two..." KyuJong sighed and shook his head. "I don't even want to think about it." He hugged YoungSaeng tightly. "It's for the best if I just stay by your side."
Pulling back slightly, YoungSaeng paused at his words. "KyuJong, do you think I'm just some person who is incapable of taking care of himself?" he asked suddenly. "Please tell me that you aren't doing this because you feel that I need protection..."
Blinking a few times, KyuJong stared at him. "No, of course not," he shook his head. "I know you can take care of yourself, you survived so long without help from anyone I wouldn't dare think that I needed to hold your hand at all times. This is a decision about me, and where I want to be in life, and that place is by your side."
YoungSaeng slowly nodded his head before shifting himself closer to KyuJong, pressing his lips against the other's. "As long as you're sure. I don't want you to regret this later. I don't know if I could stand you resenting me someday."
Returning the kiss, KyuJong smiled and held him tight. "Could never resent you. Something tells me it's the right decision; the same something that led me to you."
Smiling at that, YoungSaeng nodded. "What are you going to do then? Once this is all over, I mean."
"That I haven't figured out yet," KyuJong shrugged. "What about you? What did you want to do?"
"I think I want to keep traveling. I love seeing so many new things, especially after being tied down to that village for so long," YoungSaeng mused, turning back around and running his finger in circles in the water.
"Travel would be nice, just the two of us hm?" KyuJong nudged him lightly with his shoulder.
YoungSaeng nodded. "Maybe the others, too sometimes. Can't let them get complacent, can we?"
"Like that would ever happen," KyuJong slid his arms around YoungSaeng's waist and softly kissed up his shoulder to his neck.
Youngsaeng sighed dropping his head onto KyuJong's shoulder, allowing his hand to sink beneath the water and run along KyuJong's leg lightly.
Shivering slightly, KyuJong chuckled and nipped at his ear. "Are you enjoying the bath?"
"I am," YoungSaeng murmured. "Though I must admit to enjoying the company more."
"Me too," KyuJong agreed, gently kissing his neck. "After the bath, we should go down to the village and see if we can't find someone who is selling some weapons if you'd like."
"I'd like that a lot," YoungSaeng agreed. They hadn't been able to do much walking in the few villages they'd stayed in, so he liked the idea of being able to explore.
"I kind of thought you would," KyuJong continued to kiss down his neck and around to his back. His hands unwound from his waist to gently massage YoungSaeng's shoulders. "You know something? I haven't seen you blush once while in here."
"Perhaps what happened earlier eased my mind," YoungSaeng stated, head dropping as KyuJong began massaging his shoulders, a small moan escaping.
"Well, I'm glad for that then, cause I like looking at you, and I like you looking at me," he murmured, continuing the gentle rubbing to his back.
YoungSaeng grinned, turning carefully to face KyuJong, settling into the man's lap. "Is that so?" he asked innocently, eyes anything but.
Settling his hands on YoungSaeng's hips, KyuJong smirked and leaned against the side of the basin. His eyes wandered down YoungSaeng's body then back up. "It is, I hope that's not a problem."
"Why would it be a problem?" YoungSaeng questioned, resting his hands against KyuJong's chest before leaning forward. "It's you, after all," he murmured against his lips before closing the distance between them.
"Just making sure, I wouldn't want you to be uncomfortable, in any way." KyuJong whispered against his lips before taking them into a kiss.
YoungSaeng smiled gently into the kiss, moving his hands up to slowly run down KyuJong's arms. Aside from HyunJoong, he had never in his life felt safer than he did with KyuJong.
The hands at YoungSaeng's hips slowly pulled him closer to press them together. KyuJong sighed happily into the kiss, quickly becoming addicted to the feel of YoungSaeng's skin against his.
YoungSaeng parted his lips for the other man as he relaxed against the body holding him so close. The feeling of their bodies pressed together was amazing and he never thought he'd get enough of it.
Tilting his head, KyuJong deepened the kiss and was letting his hands roam around YoungSaeng's backside. One hand pressed between his shoulder blades while the other was massaging the small of his back and slowly circling down to gently grip his rear.
YoungSaeng shivered as KyuJong's hand ran down his body, gripping his rear and pulling a gasp from him. "Th-this may not be an appropriate place for continuing..."
"Where's your sense of adventure?" KyuJong chuckled, his attention shifting to YoungSaeng's neck, but his hand slowly slid back up to rest at his waist.
"If I look like a prune after this, I'm sharing a room with HyunJoong," he replied, moaning lightly at the lips on his neck.
"You know JungMin might have a problem with that," KyuJong dragged his teeth along his neck. The hand at his waist slid around to rest on YoungSaeng's thigh, lightly massaging.
"He can deal," YoungSaeng gasped out quietly, shifting slightly at the hand massaging his thigh. Gods, it felt good...
"Do you really want to room with HyunJoong?" KyuJong pouted, his hand moving down to the inside of his thigh and slowly creeping closer to YoungSaeng.
Feeling his body heat up at the touch, all YoungSaeng could do was shake his head before tipping KyuJong's head up and bringing their lips together.
KyuJong chuckled into the kiss, his creeping hand hadn't stopped it's movements and was now brushing against YoungSaeng with hesitating fingertips that were growing bolder and firmer as the kiss deepened.
The moment he felt KyuJong's hand against him, he moaned loudly into the kiss. His body began acting on its own as he slowly readjusted himself in KyuJong's lap, giving his lover more freedom to do as he wished. YoungSaeng broke the kiss to breathe, exhaling unevenly as he slowly opened his eyes slightly, focusing on KyuJong's face as he rested one hand on the man's hip and the other on KyuJong's shoulder.
Staring into YoungSaeng's eyes, KyuJong increased the movements of his hand. The small adjustment YoungSaeng had made had left him gasping as YoungSaeng's thigh had brushed against him. His entire attention was focused on YoungSaeng though.
Not quite sure of his actions, YoungSaeng allowed his instincts to direct him as he slowly kissed the man, his hips rolling into the intimate caresses.
KyuJong's free hand was softly stroking YoungSaeng's cheek as they kissed. The strokes continued and he picked up the speed his hand was moving, his thumb making slow circles over the sensitive tip.
YoungSaeng whined quietly as KyuJong continued teasing him, breath quickening and staggering with each motion. "Kyu...pl-please..."
"Tell me what you want Saeng," KyuJong whispered in his ear, not letting up the ministrations to YoungSaeng.
"I-I want..." Letting out a small whimper at KyuJong's touch, YoungSaeng whispered in the man's ear. "Y-you..."
"You can have me," KyuJong murmured, the teasing hand drifted away to grasp at YoungSaeng's hips. Slowly lifting him, KyuJong positioned himself under YoungSaeng and leaned up to kiss him as he slowly pulled YoungSaeng down on to him.
YoungSaeng stopped breathing as he was pulled down onto KyuJong. He felt so full and he felt KyuJong so deep within him that he could barely function. Pulling the man as close as possible with shaking arms, he buried his face in KyuJong's shoulder, trying to regain the ability to breathe.
Giving him time to adjust, KyuJong ran his hands over his back in comforting circles, kissing his shoulder and neck. He was trembling slightly as well, the combined sensations of the heat and weight on him was almost too much, he didn't know how he would react once YoungSaeng started to move.
Realizing that KyuJong couldn't do much from this position, leaving it to him, YoungSaeng closed his eyes before steadying himself as much as he could. A moment later, he slowly shifted before pushing himself up, then slid back down, crying out at just how deeply he was being filled.
Gasping, KyuJong's head tipped back and he groaned in what was close to a cry. His eyes squeezed shut before opening to look at YoungSaeng. His hands had come down to rest at his hips, one rubbing up and down his side slowly, the other returning to its earlier work and stroking YoungSaeng slowly in a firm grip.
YoungSaeng continued moving, loving the feel of KyuJong's body so close to his own. The feeling of them being so intimately entwined added to the pleasure that he was already encased in. Another cry left him as he felt KyuJong wrap his hand around him once again, causing his already erratic movements to become even moreso.
"Saeng.." KyuJong groaned, his muscles tightening at the feel of YoungSaeng's pace. He wasn't going to last long like this. His free hand was rubbing and massaging YoungSaeng's ass as he moved, the other hand attempting to mirror the frantic pace YoungSaeng had set.
Mewls and whines were all that he could make, too overcome by the feelings coursing through him to allow his brain to focus on speech. Sliding over the man beneath him, YoungSaeng could barely handle it anymore, feeling everything run through him, driving him closer to the release he so badly needed.
Getting as much leverage as he was able, KyuJong tightened his grip on YoungSaeng with the one hand and thrust his hips up to meet him as he came down, the other hand still working frantically. He was biting his lip to keep from screaming, only muffled grunts escaping. So close.. he shifted his angle, aiming for that spot to help YoungSaeng along.
The moment KyuJong shifted angled, YoungSaeng let out a shriek as he was struck directly in a certain spot that had him clenching tightly around KyuJong, releasing only a moment after.
Crying out as well at the renewed tightness, KyuJong's entire body jerked and his hand dug into YoungSaeng's hip as he pushed hard into him. Seeing stars as he released into YoungSaeng, lazily riding out the pleasure with small shifts of his hips until he was spent and too exhausted to move.
Relaxing completely against KyuJong, YoungSaeng curled into the man's chest, closing his eyes. His chest was still heaving from the force and his heart was somewhere in or around his chest.
Wrapping his arms around him, KyuJong sighed happily. He was about to speak when someone started pounding on the door and he nearly jumped out of his skin.
"Would you hurry up!" JungMin's muffled threat's were heard from the other side.
Sighing, KyuJong shook his head. "Well so much for relaxing for a minute," he chuckled and helped YoungSaeng to a sitting position before standing and getting out of the tub then helping YoungSaeng out. Handing him a towel he started to dry and get dressed.
Jumping as well at JungMin's sudden pounding on the door, YoungSaeng let KyuJong help him, too tired and sore to deal with it himself. "Hold on, JungMin ah," he called through the door as he took the towel and dried off before slipping into the clean clothes. Towel drying his hair, he leaned over to kiss KyuJong quickly before turning to the door, opening it slightly, red faced and breath still not completely under control. "I'm sorry for taking so long, JungMin ah..."
"Oh, YoungSaeng," JungMin blinked a few times at the state he was in. "Are you okay?"
"He's fine," KyuJong coughed uncomfortably, opening the door wider and ushering YoungSaeng out and back to their room, avoiding JungMin's wide eyed stare and smirk.
"I bet he is," JungMin chuckled, watching them go.
YoungSaeng fell onto the bed, still beet red and stared at the ceiling. "Oh no. That wasn't awkward in the least," he said to no one in particular.
At the door, KyuJong was peering out as he closed it, chuckling to himself when he had firmly latched then moved to sit down on the bed. "Now he blushes," he smiled and leaned down to kiss YoungSaeng. "It was just JungMin, Saeng."
"I know, but still," YoungSaeng whined childishly as he moved around, laying his head in KyuJong's lap.
"If it makes you feel a little better, JungMin didn't go in alone," he whispered, stroking YoungSaeng's hair.
At that piece of information, an eye popped open. "Really...?" YoungSaeng asked, laugh bubbling up inside of him.
"Mhm.. I just saw.. HyunJoong was hiding behind JungMin," KyuJong chuckled. "So you can get a little revenge if you're feeling a little vindictive."
"We'll see," YoungSaeng chuckled, relaxing as KyuJong played with his hair.
"Well.. you want to go down to the village then?" KyuJong twirled a lock of YoungSaeng's hair around his finger.
Practically purring in contentment, YoungSaeng nodded his head. "I just hope you don't plan on walking very fast, KyuJong ah," he laughed as he slowly got to his feet and stretched out, feeling a couple satisfying pops.
"I'll walk as slow as you want me to," he stood up behind him and wrapped his arms around his waist to give him a kiss on his cheek. He started to walk forward, still holding tight to YoungSaeng and nudging him forward.
"Should we let someone know where we're going? Like HyungJoon since the other two are occupied," YoungSaeng laughed.
"Yes, we'll let him know," KyuJong nudged him all the way to the door and opened it. "I bet he's still reveling at having a bed to sleep in." He look towards HyungJoon's door that was still ajar and called in to him. "We're going to the village HyungJoon, be back in a bit."
A loud whine and muffled cursed came from the room, followed by a pillow that never made it though the crack in the door.
"Well then," KyuJong blinked and looked down at YoungSaeng. "I guess he doesn't want to join us then," he unwrapped his arms and took YoungSaeng by the hand to head out the door. "So, should we be looking for a bow for you then?"
YoungSaeng nodded and pocketed his money before letting KyuJong lead him out. "And maybe a sword for Hyun if it's not too expensive. After all, half of this money is his," YoungSaeng pointed out.
"He should probably pick that out himself, it's fine to use a blade that's not weighted for you in a pinch, but if he's going to get a quality blade he should make sure he can wield it properly," KyuJong said, opening the door to the room and letting YoungSaeng out first. "The same will go for your bow, don't worry about it being more than you have."
Storing the advice for later, YoungSaeng smiled and left the room, waiting for KyuJong.
Leading YoungSaeng out, KyuJong looked about the temple, perturbed by the lack of other disciples around, only finding servants and a couple of initiates who scattered the moment they saw him. He wasn't entirely sure how many disciples were here, so he had no basis to judge from, it just seemed odd.
It wasn't long before they were out of the temple and heading down into the village. "Let me know if you see a shop or a smithy," KyuJong said, holding YoungSaeng's hand.
Shifting closer at the unfamiliar village and people, YoungSaeng nodded his head and kept his eyes open
"Here," KyuJong pointed at a shop they were approaching on their left. He put his arm around YoungSaeng's shoulder and guided him towards the door, opening it and letting him in first.
Lining the walls was an array of different types of weapons, one whole wall dedicated to bows and crossbows. "Go ahead and try some out," KyuJong said to Youngsaeng, nodding a greeting at the shopkeeper.
Walking over to where KyuJong pointed, YoungSaeng began looking at the beautiful bows, picking up ones that caught his eye.
After trying a few out, he sighed. They were either too light, too heavy, or just didn't feel comfortable.
"Having trouble?" KyuJong watched him from against the counter. The shopkeeper was setting out some knives to show him.
YoungSaeng pouted at him. "Yes. I can't find something that I'm comfortable with..."
"Do you need some help?" KyuJong smiled and moved towards him, noticing a pattern in the ones that YoungSaeng had selected.
"Please? I haven't a clue as to what I'm doing," YoungSaeng practically whined.
"Okay," KyuJong chuckled, looking over the bows on the wall. "You were going by the size of JungMin's bow for what to look for, but most bows aren't as light as his for it's size. Here," he reached up and pulled down one that was a handspan shorter than what YoungSaeng had been choosing. "Try this one."
Pursing his lips, YoungSaeng watched KyuJong grab one, handing it to him. Taking it, he realized that KyuJong was right. "Better, but something feels off...it might just be me and my inexperience, though..."
"If it feels off, it probably is," KyuJong was looking over the wall. He spotted one near the top but couldn't reach it. The shopkeeper brought over a stool and KyuJong just managed to snag it with his fingers. "This one maybe?"
YoungSaeng followed KyuJong's gaze, watching as he pulled down a bow that he was barely able to reach even on a stool. Looking back at the shopkeeper, he noticed that the man was shorter than even him. 'How did he get that bow up there?' he thought to himself before taking it from KyuJong.
He had to blink at how different it felt from the others. "...it's like no one's ever touched it before," he mused quietly. "Not even to look at it..."
KyuJong thanked the shopkeeper for his help who was looking strangely at the bow, but the man said nothing and took the stool back behind the counter. "So what do you think, is that it?" KyuJong asked, already knowing the answer by the look in YoungSaeng's eye.
YoungSaeng nodded, not even testing it out. Something told him that he didn't need to. Walking over to the counter, YoungSaeng held the bow close. "Can I ask how much this is, Sir?"
The shopkeeper looked at YoungSaeng and the bow, shaking his head. "To be honest, I have never seen that one before, and I make all the weapons here. I don't feel right charging you for it. You go ahead and take it."
KyuJong frowned at that. "Are you sure? It's a quality piece."
"I insist, you take it young man," the shopkeeper nodded at YoungSaeng.
Startled, YoungSaeng looked at KyuJong before turning back toward the shopkeeper, bowing deeply. "I suppose I would need arrows and the like, yes? Would I be able to trouble you for help?" he asked nicely, liking the elder shopkeep.
The shopkeeper found them a quiver that matched the bow and arrows. KyuJong inspected the arrows, finding them to be of the best quality he had seen in a long while and paid for them both. "Consider it a gift," KyuJong said when he had finished paying, holding on to the wrapped bundles as they left the shop.
YoungSaeng followed behind the man as he picked up a quiver that matched the bow perfectly. When KyuJong paid for the items, YoungSaeng stared at him in surprise. "But-" Knowing that he had no say, he just smiled and lightly placed a kiss to the man's cheek. "Thank you, KyuJong ah," he said. "Maybe we should send Hyun here..." he said, still hugging his bow carefully.
"When we leave in the morning, we have to get provisions anyway, we can show him then," KyuJong said as they walked back towards the temple. It was getting late in the evening and the sun was beginning to set. "And.. you're welcome," he leaned down to kiss YoungSaeng.
Smiling into the kiss, YoungSaeng pulled away and looked around. "It's pretty out here," he mused, taking in their surroundings as they walked.
"It is, a shame we can't stay to enjoy it," KyuJong took in a deep breath. Out of habit he reached out his senses and was startled by a faint ping behind them, in town. Stopping and turning, he swept his senses out again, but it was gone. He frowned, perplexed at not only sensing something, but that he didn't know what it was he had felt.
Feeling KyuJong tense, YoungSaeng stopped and looked at him, taking hold of his hand. "What is it, Kyu yah?" he asked quietly.
"I'm not sure," KyuJong started to move again slowly, still looking behind them. "I.. don't think it was anything bad though, just strange."
YoungSaeng hesitated before asking, "Like what we've been feeling at the temple?"
"Maybe," KyuJong shook his head, he hadn't been able to get a good sense of it to know. The fact that it had disappeared so quickly was odd as well. "I'll keep a watch for it, don't worry." KyuJong squeezed YoungSaeng's hand and started up the temple steps when they reached and before long they were back in their room.
"I'm worried since I can sense something wrong, too," YoungSaeng pointed out, tightening his hold on KyuJong's hold as well.
Once they were back in their room, YoungSaeng gently placed the bow on the chair and went to the bed, laying down and curling up, letting out a loud yawn.
Watching him lay down, KyuJong thought about what he said. There was something wrong in the temple, the usual warmth and security he should feel was oppressive and stifling. He laid down on the bed and curled up behind him, wrapping his arms around his waist. "Tired?"
Turning and curling up against KyuJong, YoungSaeng slowly nodded his head. " Today was tiring."
"That it was," KyuJong kissed his forehead. "A good tiring though," he murmured, finding himself more tired than he thought and quickly falling asleep.
Feeling KyuJong's breathing even out, YoungSaeng maneuvered the covers around them and soon followed KyuJong.
Pairing: KyuJong/YoungSaeng, HyunJoong/JungMin
Chapter: 17/?
Rating: R
Summary: To be blessed, is to walk with a deity's hand on your shoulder..
A/N: AU. Ongoing RP with renichifreak
KyuJong was startled awake at the sound of someone knocking on the door. Before he had a chance to move or respond, the door was opening and in the doorway stood HyoYeon. Her eyes went wide as dinner plates and she let out a squeak before turning and slamming the door shut.
The door slamming woke YoungSaeng instantly. Looking around, his wide eyes fell on KyuJong, who was staring at the door. "What happened, Kyu yah?" he asked, wincing noticeably as he sat up. "Is everything okay?"
"We have a visitor it seems," KyuJong chuckled as he turned to him. "Are you okay?" He asked, seeing the wince.
"I'm fine, KyuJong ah," YoungSaeng reassured him. "It aches more than I thought it would, but-" He blushed before looking at KyuJong with a smile. "It was more than worth it."
"Just let me know if gets to be too much," KyuJong smiled softly, leaning in to kiss him. "Get dressed, I think HyoYeon's here to take us to the elder." He slipped off the bed and started to pull on his discarded clothes.
Nodding, YoungSaeng slipped out of bed and gathered his own clothes, slipping them on. It took a bit longer than usual since he couldn't stop his eyes from wandering back to his...were they lovers now? together, certainly, but...
"Um, KyuJong ah, what does this make us now...?" he asked a bit nervously.
Sliding the shirt over his head, KyuJong gave him a puzzled look with a smile. "That depends.. what do you want us to be?" He mused, closing the distance between them.
"I'm not really sure...wouldn't that make us lovers?" he asked sowly. "It sounds nice, but I don't know..."
"Lovers would be appropriate," KyuJong smiled, smoothing down YoungSaeng's mussed hair. His attention was diverted as there was another soft knock on the door. "We can discuss it later if you want, but we shouldn't keep the elder waiting."
Smiling, YoungSaeng nodded and finished dressing before moving to the door and opening it, seeing HyoYeon on the other side. Bowing respectfully, he opened the door further to let her in.
"KyuJong," she smiled, giving YoungSaeng a passing glance. She motioned out into the room. "The elder has returned and will see you now."
"Thank you HyoYeon, please show us the way," he nodded politely and moved to the door, taking YoungSaeng's hand as he passed and led him from the room.
YoungSaeng allowed himself to be led through the halls to where the elder was waiting. He took the time to take in the beautiful structure and as well as the route they were taking, knowing that he would need to be able to navigate around the building.
Glancing at him a few times as they went, KyuJong had to smile at the expression on YoungSaeng's face. He squeezed YoungSaeng's hand as HyoYeon was opening a door in front of them and showing them inside. The room was a small study, largely occupied by a desk in which a man in his middling years was seated. The man was making notes and barely registered their presence.
Bowing politely, KyuJong approached the desk, taking YoungSaeng by the shoulder and leading him forward. "Elder, I am sorry to bother you, but I bring some disturbing news and would seek your counsel."
YoungSaeng yelped quietly as he was urged forward, staring at the man with wide eyes before bowing a deep 90 degrees. "Um, th-thank you for accepting us here, Sir...It has been a very eventful journey..."
The elder looked up, glancing at the both of them before returning to his notes. "You may speak," he replied. KyuJong frowned, there was something... odd going on. He motioned to YoungSaeng to take a seat. Telling the whole story (minus the more private details), KyuJong explained everything he had seen and his theories and helped YoungSaeng explain about what had happened in the village to him. When they had finished the story, KyuJong looked at the elder expectantly.
The elder finally sat down his pen and looked up again. Folding his hands on the desk, he stared at YoungSaeng for a long moment before finally turning to KyuJong. "The Formless One is only a myth. You have been tricked by some lowly village street rat into believing some wild drawn up story just so you would take him with you."
Whenever the Elder would look his way, YoungSaeng could not stop the chill from taking over his body, lifting his hands to rub at his arms at one point.
"Sir.. I assure you, everything-" KyuJong started, but the elder waved his hand in dismissal, cutting him off.
"You are welcome to stay here for the night of course, I can not refuse a disciple. But you will receive no help or support from the other's here, and I would suggest you keep this... story to yourselves," the elder motioned to the door. "You are dismissed."
Fuming, KyuJong grabbed YoungSaeng's hand to pull him up. "I am disappointed that an elder would be so quick to dismiss something so potentially dangerous, I will be speaking to the Order Council about your actions here, Elder." KyuJong bit back any more scathing remarks and turned to leave, pulling YoungSaeng along.
Listening to how easily the man was able to discount everything they-he-had gone through, caught him off guard. When KyuJong grabbed him and pulled him out of the office, YoungSaeng winced at the pressure. He said nothing because he doubted the man even realized just how tight his grip was.
HyoYeon was waiting out in the hall, she opened her mouth to say something but KyuJong brushed by. His expression was dark, matching his irritated thoughts. How stupid could this man be?
The further they got from the door, KyuJong started to calm. Relaxing his grip on YoungSaeng and sighed heavily. "I must apologize for his behavior, that was uncalled for. I don't know why how he could so casually dismiss what we told him."
Once the grip had finally relaxed, YoungSaeng sighed and gently pulled his wrist back, rubbing at it to relieve the soreness. "KyuJong, was I the only one feeling a chill in there...?" he asked slowly, unsure how to phrase what he was trying to say.
"No.. something feels wrong here," KyuJong shook his head and glanced down at YoungSaeng rubbing his wrist. "I'm sorry... did I hurt you?"
Stopping the action, YoungSaeng smiled. "It's fine, KyuJong ah. Don't worry about it."
Wrapping his arm about his shoulder, KyuJong continued to lead him back to the room. "Let's just ignore what he said, relax and sleep for the night and then head out first thing in the morning. You'll be happy to know there's a washroom in our room, you can take a bath."
Smiling, YoungSaeng nodded, but there was still something about the Elder that bothered him. Something prickling on the edge of his senses, but he couldn't figure out just what it was.
"I'll let you bathe first since you didn't get to at our last stop like you wanted," YoungSaeng offered, leaning into the body beside him.
"Will you keep me company?" KyuJong relaxed a little at seeing his smile. He could tell that YoungSaeng was still bothered though, his lack of enthusiasm for the bath was evidence of that.
His smile softened at the question. "Of course I will," YoungSaeng answered, deciding to push his concerns to the back of his mind and enjoy the night as KyuJong had suggested.
They reached the room and KyuJong opened the door for him. The others were still in their rooms. "I'll just grab a change of clothes," KyuJong leaned in to kiss YoungSaeng's cheek and went to their room to dig out clean clothes then returned to the main room. He motioned to YoungSaeng to follow him into the washroom where a very large basin was set in the floor. "Hmm.. room for two," he mused, peering at YoungSaeng as he began to fill it.
At KyuJong's musing, YoungSaeng paused before a smile slid onto his face. Turning and leaving the room, he quickly returned with a change of clothes.
Chuckling, KyuJong undressed and lay his clothes in a pile on the floor. He tested the water to make sure it wasn't too hot and slowly eased in while it was still filling.
Once the basin was filled, YoungSaeng found himself undressing and climbing in as well, taking a seat in front of KyuJong and leaning back into the man's chest.
Wrapping his arms around YoungSaeng, KyuJong pressed his lips to his bare shoulder. "It's nice to have you all to myself," he murmured.
"I don't have any complaints, either," YoungSaeng replied as his eyes closed, the tension that had built since entering the Elder's study slowly beginning to leave him.
"So things have changed dramatically for you since leaving your little village just a few days ago," KyuJong rested his chin on YoungSaeng's shoulder, softly stroking his arms. "How do you feel?"
YoungSaeng found himself smiling, bringing a hand behind him to curl around KyuJong's neck, fingers playing with his hair. "I feel amazing. My best friend is with me and found someone who will treat him well after so long. I'm learning new things, seeing new sights that I never thought I'd ever see." He paused and brought his head back to rest against KyuJong's shoulder. "And I found someone who's willing to risk his life for me."
"Gladly risk his life," KyuJong smiled and leaned his cheek against the side of YoungSaeng's head. "I've been thinking... about when this is all over and you're safe..." he sighed and closed his eyes, not sure how to continue.
"Hmm?" YoungSaeng asked, curious when KyuJong paused.
"I'm going to leave the Order," he said quietly, staring at the wall. It was something he had thought about when given a free moment. He loved YoungSaeng, and there was no place for him in his life within the confines of the Order. It wasn't unusual for member's to take lover's, but often went months without seeing them. Truthfully, that guiding sense within him told him it would be the right decision.
YoungSaeng's eyes shot open as he quickly turned to stare at KyuJong in shock. "What?! But why? You love the Order. I can see it in your eyes whenever you speak of it," he protested.
"But I love you more," KyuJong replied, stroking YoungSaeng's cheek and turning to look at him. "Life as a disciple has been rewarding, but it leaves me with little time for myself. I could be gone for months at a time and never see you. I can still be faithful to my deity, but... I don't think I was meant to devote my life to him."
He listened carefully to KyuJong as he spoke, nodding here and there. He was unable to stop his heart from jumping into his throat at the statement, though and found himself hugging KyuJong tightly. "Just don't do anything rash, okay?" he whispered.
"Me do something rash? Never." KyuJong chuckled and leaned in to kiss YoungSaeng on the temple. "Besides, what would you do with yourself if I wasn't there to take care of you?"
"Probably get into enough trouble that you'd have no choice but to come back...or torment Hyun and JungMin ah," YoungSaeng chuckled.
"If I left you alone anywhere near those two..." KyuJong sighed and shook his head. "I don't even want to think about it." He hugged YoungSaeng tightly. "It's for the best if I just stay by your side."
Pulling back slightly, YoungSaeng paused at his words. "KyuJong, do you think I'm just some person who is incapable of taking care of himself?" he asked suddenly. "Please tell me that you aren't doing this because you feel that I need protection..."
Blinking a few times, KyuJong stared at him. "No, of course not," he shook his head. "I know you can take care of yourself, you survived so long without help from anyone I wouldn't dare think that I needed to hold your hand at all times. This is a decision about me, and where I want to be in life, and that place is by your side."
YoungSaeng slowly nodded his head before shifting himself closer to KyuJong, pressing his lips against the other's. "As long as you're sure. I don't want you to regret this later. I don't know if I could stand you resenting me someday."
Returning the kiss, KyuJong smiled and held him tight. "Could never resent you. Something tells me it's the right decision; the same something that led me to you."
Smiling at that, YoungSaeng nodded. "What are you going to do then? Once this is all over, I mean."
"That I haven't figured out yet," KyuJong shrugged. "What about you? What did you want to do?"
"I think I want to keep traveling. I love seeing so many new things, especially after being tied down to that village for so long," YoungSaeng mused, turning back around and running his finger in circles in the water.
"Travel would be nice, just the two of us hm?" KyuJong nudged him lightly with his shoulder.
YoungSaeng nodded. "Maybe the others, too sometimes. Can't let them get complacent, can we?"
"Like that would ever happen," KyuJong slid his arms around YoungSaeng's waist and softly kissed up his shoulder to his neck.
Youngsaeng sighed dropping his head onto KyuJong's shoulder, allowing his hand to sink beneath the water and run along KyuJong's leg lightly.
Shivering slightly, KyuJong chuckled and nipped at his ear. "Are you enjoying the bath?"
"I am," YoungSaeng murmured. "Though I must admit to enjoying the company more."
"Me too," KyuJong agreed, gently kissing his neck. "After the bath, we should go down to the village and see if we can't find someone who is selling some weapons if you'd like."
"I'd like that a lot," YoungSaeng agreed. They hadn't been able to do much walking in the few villages they'd stayed in, so he liked the idea of being able to explore.
"I kind of thought you would," KyuJong continued to kiss down his neck and around to his back. His hands unwound from his waist to gently massage YoungSaeng's shoulders. "You know something? I haven't seen you blush once while in here."
"Perhaps what happened earlier eased my mind," YoungSaeng stated, head dropping as KyuJong began massaging his shoulders, a small moan escaping.
"Well, I'm glad for that then, cause I like looking at you, and I like you looking at me," he murmured, continuing the gentle rubbing to his back.
YoungSaeng grinned, turning carefully to face KyuJong, settling into the man's lap. "Is that so?" he asked innocently, eyes anything but.
Settling his hands on YoungSaeng's hips, KyuJong smirked and leaned against the side of the basin. His eyes wandered down YoungSaeng's body then back up. "It is, I hope that's not a problem."
"Why would it be a problem?" YoungSaeng questioned, resting his hands against KyuJong's chest before leaning forward. "It's you, after all," he murmured against his lips before closing the distance between them.
"Just making sure, I wouldn't want you to be uncomfortable, in any way." KyuJong whispered against his lips before taking them into a kiss.
YoungSaeng smiled gently into the kiss, moving his hands up to slowly run down KyuJong's arms. Aside from HyunJoong, he had never in his life felt safer than he did with KyuJong.
The hands at YoungSaeng's hips slowly pulled him closer to press them together. KyuJong sighed happily into the kiss, quickly becoming addicted to the feel of YoungSaeng's skin against his.
YoungSaeng parted his lips for the other man as he relaxed against the body holding him so close. The feeling of their bodies pressed together was amazing and he never thought he'd get enough of it.
Tilting his head, KyuJong deepened the kiss and was letting his hands roam around YoungSaeng's backside. One hand pressed between his shoulder blades while the other was massaging the small of his back and slowly circling down to gently grip his rear.
YoungSaeng shivered as KyuJong's hand ran down his body, gripping his rear and pulling a gasp from him. "Th-this may not be an appropriate place for continuing..."
"Where's your sense of adventure?" KyuJong chuckled, his attention shifting to YoungSaeng's neck, but his hand slowly slid back up to rest at his waist.
"If I look like a prune after this, I'm sharing a room with HyunJoong," he replied, moaning lightly at the lips on his neck.
"You know JungMin might have a problem with that," KyuJong dragged his teeth along his neck. The hand at his waist slid around to rest on YoungSaeng's thigh, lightly massaging.
"He can deal," YoungSaeng gasped out quietly, shifting slightly at the hand massaging his thigh. Gods, it felt good...
"Do you really want to room with HyunJoong?" KyuJong pouted, his hand moving down to the inside of his thigh and slowly creeping closer to YoungSaeng.
Feeling his body heat up at the touch, all YoungSaeng could do was shake his head before tipping KyuJong's head up and bringing their lips together.
KyuJong chuckled into the kiss, his creeping hand hadn't stopped it's movements and was now brushing against YoungSaeng with hesitating fingertips that were growing bolder and firmer as the kiss deepened.
The moment he felt KyuJong's hand against him, he moaned loudly into the kiss. His body began acting on its own as he slowly readjusted himself in KyuJong's lap, giving his lover more freedom to do as he wished. YoungSaeng broke the kiss to breathe, exhaling unevenly as he slowly opened his eyes slightly, focusing on KyuJong's face as he rested one hand on the man's hip and the other on KyuJong's shoulder.
Staring into YoungSaeng's eyes, KyuJong increased the movements of his hand. The small adjustment YoungSaeng had made had left him gasping as YoungSaeng's thigh had brushed against him. His entire attention was focused on YoungSaeng though.
Not quite sure of his actions, YoungSaeng allowed his instincts to direct him as he slowly kissed the man, his hips rolling into the intimate caresses.
KyuJong's free hand was softly stroking YoungSaeng's cheek as they kissed. The strokes continued and he picked up the speed his hand was moving, his thumb making slow circles over the sensitive tip.
YoungSaeng whined quietly as KyuJong continued teasing him, breath quickening and staggering with each motion. "Kyu...pl-please..."
"Tell me what you want Saeng," KyuJong whispered in his ear, not letting up the ministrations to YoungSaeng.
"I-I want..." Letting out a small whimper at KyuJong's touch, YoungSaeng whispered in the man's ear. "Y-you..."
"You can have me," KyuJong murmured, the teasing hand drifted away to grasp at YoungSaeng's hips. Slowly lifting him, KyuJong positioned himself under YoungSaeng and leaned up to kiss him as he slowly pulled YoungSaeng down on to him.
YoungSaeng stopped breathing as he was pulled down onto KyuJong. He felt so full and he felt KyuJong so deep within him that he could barely function. Pulling the man as close as possible with shaking arms, he buried his face in KyuJong's shoulder, trying to regain the ability to breathe.
Giving him time to adjust, KyuJong ran his hands over his back in comforting circles, kissing his shoulder and neck. He was trembling slightly as well, the combined sensations of the heat and weight on him was almost too much, he didn't know how he would react once YoungSaeng started to move.
Realizing that KyuJong couldn't do much from this position, leaving it to him, YoungSaeng closed his eyes before steadying himself as much as he could. A moment later, he slowly shifted before pushing himself up, then slid back down, crying out at just how deeply he was being filled.
Gasping, KyuJong's head tipped back and he groaned in what was close to a cry. His eyes squeezed shut before opening to look at YoungSaeng. His hands had come down to rest at his hips, one rubbing up and down his side slowly, the other returning to its earlier work and stroking YoungSaeng slowly in a firm grip.
YoungSaeng continued moving, loving the feel of KyuJong's body so close to his own. The feeling of them being so intimately entwined added to the pleasure that he was already encased in. Another cry left him as he felt KyuJong wrap his hand around him once again, causing his already erratic movements to become even moreso.
"Saeng.." KyuJong groaned, his muscles tightening at the feel of YoungSaeng's pace. He wasn't going to last long like this. His free hand was rubbing and massaging YoungSaeng's ass as he moved, the other hand attempting to mirror the frantic pace YoungSaeng had set.
Mewls and whines were all that he could make, too overcome by the feelings coursing through him to allow his brain to focus on speech. Sliding over the man beneath him, YoungSaeng could barely handle it anymore, feeling everything run through him, driving him closer to the release he so badly needed.
Getting as much leverage as he was able, KyuJong tightened his grip on YoungSaeng with the one hand and thrust his hips up to meet him as he came down, the other hand still working frantically. He was biting his lip to keep from screaming, only muffled grunts escaping. So close.. he shifted his angle, aiming for that spot to help YoungSaeng along.
The moment KyuJong shifted angled, YoungSaeng let out a shriek as he was struck directly in a certain spot that had him clenching tightly around KyuJong, releasing only a moment after.
Crying out as well at the renewed tightness, KyuJong's entire body jerked and his hand dug into YoungSaeng's hip as he pushed hard into him. Seeing stars as he released into YoungSaeng, lazily riding out the pleasure with small shifts of his hips until he was spent and too exhausted to move.
Relaxing completely against KyuJong, YoungSaeng curled into the man's chest, closing his eyes. His chest was still heaving from the force and his heart was somewhere in or around his chest.
Wrapping his arms around him, KyuJong sighed happily. He was about to speak when someone started pounding on the door and he nearly jumped out of his skin.
"Would you hurry up!" JungMin's muffled threat's were heard from the other side.
Sighing, KyuJong shook his head. "Well so much for relaxing for a minute," he chuckled and helped YoungSaeng to a sitting position before standing and getting out of the tub then helping YoungSaeng out. Handing him a towel he started to dry and get dressed.
Jumping as well at JungMin's sudden pounding on the door, YoungSaeng let KyuJong help him, too tired and sore to deal with it himself. "Hold on, JungMin ah," he called through the door as he took the towel and dried off before slipping into the clean clothes. Towel drying his hair, he leaned over to kiss KyuJong quickly before turning to the door, opening it slightly, red faced and breath still not completely under control. "I'm sorry for taking so long, JungMin ah..."
"Oh, YoungSaeng," JungMin blinked a few times at the state he was in. "Are you okay?"
"He's fine," KyuJong coughed uncomfortably, opening the door wider and ushering YoungSaeng out and back to their room, avoiding JungMin's wide eyed stare and smirk.
"I bet he is," JungMin chuckled, watching them go.
YoungSaeng fell onto the bed, still beet red and stared at the ceiling. "Oh no. That wasn't awkward in the least," he said to no one in particular.
At the door, KyuJong was peering out as he closed it, chuckling to himself when he had firmly latched then moved to sit down on the bed. "Now he blushes," he smiled and leaned down to kiss YoungSaeng. "It was just JungMin, Saeng."
"I know, but still," YoungSaeng whined childishly as he moved around, laying his head in KyuJong's lap.
"If it makes you feel a little better, JungMin didn't go in alone," he whispered, stroking YoungSaeng's hair.
At that piece of information, an eye popped open. "Really...?" YoungSaeng asked, laugh bubbling up inside of him.
"Mhm.. I just saw.. HyunJoong was hiding behind JungMin," KyuJong chuckled. "So you can get a little revenge if you're feeling a little vindictive."
"We'll see," YoungSaeng chuckled, relaxing as KyuJong played with his hair.
"Well.. you want to go down to the village then?" KyuJong twirled a lock of YoungSaeng's hair around his finger.
Practically purring in contentment, YoungSaeng nodded his head. "I just hope you don't plan on walking very fast, KyuJong ah," he laughed as he slowly got to his feet and stretched out, feeling a couple satisfying pops.
"I'll walk as slow as you want me to," he stood up behind him and wrapped his arms around his waist to give him a kiss on his cheek. He started to walk forward, still holding tight to YoungSaeng and nudging him forward.
"Should we let someone know where we're going? Like HyungJoon since the other two are occupied," YoungSaeng laughed.
"Yes, we'll let him know," KyuJong nudged him all the way to the door and opened it. "I bet he's still reveling at having a bed to sleep in." He look towards HyungJoon's door that was still ajar and called in to him. "We're going to the village HyungJoon, be back in a bit."
A loud whine and muffled cursed came from the room, followed by a pillow that never made it though the crack in the door.
"Well then," KyuJong blinked and looked down at YoungSaeng. "I guess he doesn't want to join us then," he unwrapped his arms and took YoungSaeng by the hand to head out the door. "So, should we be looking for a bow for you then?"
YoungSaeng nodded and pocketed his money before letting KyuJong lead him out. "And maybe a sword for Hyun if it's not too expensive. After all, half of this money is his," YoungSaeng pointed out.
"He should probably pick that out himself, it's fine to use a blade that's not weighted for you in a pinch, but if he's going to get a quality blade he should make sure he can wield it properly," KyuJong said, opening the door to the room and letting YoungSaeng out first. "The same will go for your bow, don't worry about it being more than you have."
Storing the advice for later, YoungSaeng smiled and left the room, waiting for KyuJong.
Leading YoungSaeng out, KyuJong looked about the temple, perturbed by the lack of other disciples around, only finding servants and a couple of initiates who scattered the moment they saw him. He wasn't entirely sure how many disciples were here, so he had no basis to judge from, it just seemed odd.
It wasn't long before they were out of the temple and heading down into the village. "Let me know if you see a shop or a smithy," KyuJong said, holding YoungSaeng's hand.
Shifting closer at the unfamiliar village and people, YoungSaeng nodded his head and kept his eyes open
"Here," KyuJong pointed at a shop they were approaching on their left. He put his arm around YoungSaeng's shoulder and guided him towards the door, opening it and letting him in first.
Lining the walls was an array of different types of weapons, one whole wall dedicated to bows and crossbows. "Go ahead and try some out," KyuJong said to Youngsaeng, nodding a greeting at the shopkeeper.
Walking over to where KyuJong pointed, YoungSaeng began looking at the beautiful bows, picking up ones that caught his eye.
After trying a few out, he sighed. They were either too light, too heavy, or just didn't feel comfortable.
"Having trouble?" KyuJong watched him from against the counter. The shopkeeper was setting out some knives to show him.
YoungSaeng pouted at him. "Yes. I can't find something that I'm comfortable with..."
"Do you need some help?" KyuJong smiled and moved towards him, noticing a pattern in the ones that YoungSaeng had selected.
"Please? I haven't a clue as to what I'm doing," YoungSaeng practically whined.
"Okay," KyuJong chuckled, looking over the bows on the wall. "You were going by the size of JungMin's bow for what to look for, but most bows aren't as light as his for it's size. Here," he reached up and pulled down one that was a handspan shorter than what YoungSaeng had been choosing. "Try this one."
Pursing his lips, YoungSaeng watched KyuJong grab one, handing it to him. Taking it, he realized that KyuJong was right. "Better, but something feels off...it might just be me and my inexperience, though..."
"If it feels off, it probably is," KyuJong was looking over the wall. He spotted one near the top but couldn't reach it. The shopkeeper brought over a stool and KyuJong just managed to snag it with his fingers. "This one maybe?"
YoungSaeng followed KyuJong's gaze, watching as he pulled down a bow that he was barely able to reach even on a stool. Looking back at the shopkeeper, he noticed that the man was shorter than even him. 'How did he get that bow up there?' he thought to himself before taking it from KyuJong.
He had to blink at how different it felt from the others. "...it's like no one's ever touched it before," he mused quietly. "Not even to look at it..."
KyuJong thanked the shopkeeper for his help who was looking strangely at the bow, but the man said nothing and took the stool back behind the counter. "So what do you think, is that it?" KyuJong asked, already knowing the answer by the look in YoungSaeng's eye.
YoungSaeng nodded, not even testing it out. Something told him that he didn't need to. Walking over to the counter, YoungSaeng held the bow close. "Can I ask how much this is, Sir?"
The shopkeeper looked at YoungSaeng and the bow, shaking his head. "To be honest, I have never seen that one before, and I make all the weapons here. I don't feel right charging you for it. You go ahead and take it."
KyuJong frowned at that. "Are you sure? It's a quality piece."
"I insist, you take it young man," the shopkeeper nodded at YoungSaeng.
Startled, YoungSaeng looked at KyuJong before turning back toward the shopkeeper, bowing deeply. "I suppose I would need arrows and the like, yes? Would I be able to trouble you for help?" he asked nicely, liking the elder shopkeep.
The shopkeeper found them a quiver that matched the bow and arrows. KyuJong inspected the arrows, finding them to be of the best quality he had seen in a long while and paid for them both. "Consider it a gift," KyuJong said when he had finished paying, holding on to the wrapped bundles as they left the shop.
YoungSaeng followed behind the man as he picked up a quiver that matched the bow perfectly. When KyuJong paid for the items, YoungSaeng stared at him in surprise. "But-" Knowing that he had no say, he just smiled and lightly placed a kiss to the man's cheek. "Thank you, KyuJong ah," he said. "Maybe we should send Hyun here..." he said, still hugging his bow carefully.
"When we leave in the morning, we have to get provisions anyway, we can show him then," KyuJong said as they walked back towards the temple. It was getting late in the evening and the sun was beginning to set. "And.. you're welcome," he leaned down to kiss YoungSaeng.
Smiling into the kiss, YoungSaeng pulled away and looked around. "It's pretty out here," he mused, taking in their surroundings as they walked.
"It is, a shame we can't stay to enjoy it," KyuJong took in a deep breath. Out of habit he reached out his senses and was startled by a faint ping behind them, in town. Stopping and turning, he swept his senses out again, but it was gone. He frowned, perplexed at not only sensing something, but that he didn't know what it was he had felt.
Feeling KyuJong tense, YoungSaeng stopped and looked at him, taking hold of his hand. "What is it, Kyu yah?" he asked quietly.
"I'm not sure," KyuJong started to move again slowly, still looking behind them. "I.. don't think it was anything bad though, just strange."
YoungSaeng hesitated before asking, "Like what we've been feeling at the temple?"
"Maybe," KyuJong shook his head, he hadn't been able to get a good sense of it to know. The fact that it had disappeared so quickly was odd as well. "I'll keep a watch for it, don't worry." KyuJong squeezed YoungSaeng's hand and started up the temple steps when they reached and before long they were back in their room.
"I'm worried since I can sense something wrong, too," YoungSaeng pointed out, tightening his hold on KyuJong's hold as well.
Once they were back in their room, YoungSaeng gently placed the bow on the chair and went to the bed, laying down and curling up, letting out a loud yawn.
Watching him lay down, KyuJong thought about what he said. There was something wrong in the temple, the usual warmth and security he should feel was oppressive and stifling. He laid down on the bed and curled up behind him, wrapping his arms around his waist. "Tired?"
Turning and curling up against KyuJong, YoungSaeng slowly nodded his head. " Today was tiring."
"That it was," KyuJong kissed his forehead. "A good tiring though," he murmured, finding himself more tired than he thought and quickly falling asleep.
Feeling KyuJong's breathing even out, YoungSaeng maneuvered the covers around them and soon followed KyuJong.