Oneshot - Kingdom Knights (Part 1)
Title: Kingdom Knights
Pairing: YeWook
Summary: When an unauthorized intruder is caught by the Kingdom Knights, how does this affect Ryeowook, the Prince of Pelia? Just what does his uncle have to do with all this?
Rating: PG13
“Milord, an unauthorized intruder has been caught in the royal chambers.” A guard cloaked in the colors of the Kingdom Knights reports. He kneels before the throne, his voice echoing in the vast hall, decorated in the rich colors of blue, purple and ivory.
“Bring him forth,” speaks the king, yawning and resting his head against his palm. His complexion is fair as his eyes are sharp like the daggers his guards carry. He had a smile that would melt any merchant and a sneer cold as ice. He was known throughout the kingdom as a playboy king, but nonetheless respected. Much like a lion, if you pulled at his fur the wrong way, he will bite back with no mercy.
The Knight leaves to soon return, flanked by two more Kingdom Knights and a prisoner held captive. The Knights bow and force the caught intruder to kneel before the King. Clothes weren’t what a merchant or a higher-class member would wear, but it wasn’t that of a low scum either. Dark waves covered the face of the bowed head as the arms that were bound behind his back kept flexing and straining against the restraints.
“Is a there a valid reason why you have trespassed onto royal grounds?” The King says, voice laced with boredom. He crosses his legs and looks down at the tied man, he sighs. “I do not have time to be doing this. If you will not answer, I will just throw you away to the Dungeon Master and have him take care of you.” The King leans forward slightly when the male continues to keep his head bowed and not answer. “And I promise you, you will wish it was I who gave you your punishment. Now, speak or forever hold your tongue.” The King quickly says, rolling his eyes and slumping back onto the throne.
Silence. The Knights and the Royal Advisor standing next to the throne, fidget slightly. The quieter it got, the more irritated their King would get.
“Speak if you know what is good for you.” Hisses one of the Knights holding the intruder. He knees him harshly in the back, which made the man look up and glare.
Taking a deep breath, he finally speaks. “Those who live in the comforts of royal ground surely will not see the hunger and despair that lies behind those walls.” The man shakes his hair out of his face to stare defiantly into the Kings unwavering, yet amused, eyes. “If merchants or aristocrats do not see, then it is inevitable that the vain King will also not see.” His voice was rich like velvet and smooth as silk. It was one of the finest voices, if not the best, the King has ever heard.
Bemused, the King leans forward on his throne. “And to make a difference, you tried to sneak into the royal palace? For what purpose? Surely, you didn’t think that you could take the entire squadron of the Kingdom Knights all by yourself? Tell me, brave but foolish thief, what was it you were going to gain?”
The man doesn’t answer, but continues to keep eye contact with the icy King. The Knights and Advisor gulps at the growing tension in the room. Nobody, not even the utmost courageous Knight, has the will and strength to stare at the King like this man.
Suddenly, the King barks out a laugh, which soon dies down to chuckles. “This man, is foolish and possibly dim-witted, but he has courage some of the Knights do not possess. Put him in the dungeons for now, but he’s under my law. So tell that dense Master that he will not lay a finger on him.”
Saluting, hands over their hearts, the Knights pull the man to his feet and turn towards the doors.
*~
“I wonder if he’ll let me off the grounds tomorrow.” A boy, shy of his twentieth year, walks along the empty corridor of the East Wing. He looks to his left, the windowless balcony letting in a warm autumn breeze as the sun sets in the horizon, disappearing beyond the mountains that divide the neighboring kingdom.
Curiosity and sadness fills the large orbs as the eyes scan the wide palace walls, separating the kingdom’s royal grounds from the bustling city outside. It always made the young boy frustrated that he was never allowed beyond those walls. All his life, he’s been confined in the safety of the guards and the palace grounds, most of his tutors telling him that nothing interesting lies out there in the city.
But he wanted to decide that himself, and he was going to no matter what the King said.
Footsteps and the shuffling of feet break his thoughts as he looks away from the balcony and down the hall. The dark cloaks of the Kingdom Knights blends into the shadows, a hue of black and burgundy. The lead Knight was in front and flanked by two other guards, with the dimness of the hall and how the men were positioned, it was hard for the curious boy to make out the man between the three men.
“Prince,” Says the Knights, saluting and halting their movement.
Nodding slightly, the boy tries to crane his neck and see who it was the Knights were so keen on shielding from him. Taking small steps he continues forward, but when he gets closer - the knights’ heads still bowed - he gets a glimpse of the captive man.
Dark, blazing eyes meet his, sending a shiver down his spine and raising goosebumps up his arms. Throat suddenly getting dry and his body unwilling to move, he musters all his strength to simply look away and breathe.
“Prince Ryeowook, are you alright?” A Knight asks.
Shaking his head slightly to clear his hazy mind, Ryeowook nods and smiles. “Yes. Um… carry on.” He whispers, trying with all his might to not look back at the held prisoner.
With another salute, the knights disappear down the way Ryeowook came as he continues walking. He lets out a shaky breath when he was a fair distance, but picks up his pace when his skin crawls. It was probably his imagination, but he could still feel those piercing eyes on him.
“I need to talk to Heechul,” he mumbles, his cloaks swishing with each movement.
*~
“And just what is it that you are about to do with this man, milord?” Asks the Advisor once the doors were sealed.
An amused smirk graces the full lips as the King leans on his elbows. “I’m not sure.” Came the simple reply.
Dumbfounded, the advisor almost falls, but catches himself. “What?” He hisses. “Milord, we do not know anything about this man. For all we know, he could be a spy from the neighboring lands! We can not waste-“
The King suddenly grasps the collar of the advisors shirt and pulls him towards his face. They were merely inches away as they stare into each other’s eyes. “Hankyung,” The King drawls, eyes playful but deadly. “I always did tell you to call me by my name when we’re alone, didn’t I? A smart man like you should know when to obey a direct order.”
Clearing his throat, Hankyung nods. “Yes… Heechul.”
Humming, Heechul smiles predatorily. “There we go.” He gently lets go of the shirt, but not before letting cool fingers caress the advisors jaw. Twirling a strand of his hair, Heechul leans back on the throne. “Although, foolish he may, the fire in his eyes was something.” He turns his head to look at Hankyung. “That is no ordinary man, I wouldn’t be surprised if he escaped the dungeons tonight.”
“But what are you planning?” Hankyung inquires, fixing his shirt. He groans and rolls his eyes when Heechul; the King of Pelia, the 56th descendant of the royal family, gives him his famous smirk and doesn’t answer.
Hankyung pinches the bridge of his nose and hugs the clipboard in his hand to his chest, as if that will lift the frustration off of him. “Why couldn’t I be assigned to the son of the King’s-“
Suddenly the doors open and in came a slightly flustered boy, his cloaks matching that of the Kings but not as glamorous.
“King. Advisor.” The small male says, acknowledging the two.
Hankyung salutes in return as Heechul smiles and spreads his arms. “Ah, Wookie,” He coos, waving his hand, “come to join me in my time of isolation? Come, sit.” He pats his knees.
Ryeowook frowns and resists the urge to roll his eyes and cross his arms. Even if they were related, he was still expected to respect the king. “I’m not a kid.” He huffs. He was still allowed some dignity.
Heechul chuckles. “Of course you aren’t. I often do mistake you as one still.” His eyes were twinkling with unfathomable mischief. “What brings you to come and see me?” He says, crossing his legs and leaning against his palm. “You rarely come down here to speak with me.”
Ryeowook’s head tilts higher as he raises his voice. “I would like a favor.” He didn’t want to sound pleading, but not too demanding either.
“Anything for you. What is it that you would like?” Heechul says, tilting his head to the side.
Hankyung pretends to be busy with his clipboard, but he was all ears. Ryeowook never, if avoided, asking favors to the King - his only relative.
Clearing his throat, Ryeowook looks Heechul in the eyes. “I wish you will grant me permission to leave the palace grounds.” Body tense and ready for argument, Ryeowook stands his ground and tries not to remove his gaze to the floor. It was easier to have a staring competition with something that wouldn’t glare you down.
But to his surprise, Heechul shrugs and waves his hand dismissively. “Is that all? Go ahead, you have my permission.”
Ryeowook blinks furiously as the words process, a big grin splits his face as his eyes sparkle. “Really? You really mean it?”
Heechul chuckles. “Do you doubt me so? I said yes didn’t I?” He uncrosses his legs and stretches his arms. “Under the condition that you’ll take ten Knights and be back before sunset, of course.”
Hankyung winces when Ryeowook nods furiously, afraid the poor boys neck will snap with the effort.
“Of course! Thank you Uncle!” Ryeowook shouts with glee. He salutes and skips out of the hall, a newfound spring in each step.
“Are you sure? I thought you banned him of going out the walls until his coronation?” Hankyung inquires.
Heechul just smiles, a rare true smile, “He is of age, I think he needs to find the hardships of his own kingdom for him to be a truly great ruler one day.” He looks towards the high windows and the sunset painted sky. “I would be doing a favor for my dead brother by making sure his son grows to be a good king.”
A knowing smile graces Hankyung’s lip as he stays quiet and lets the King wander into his memories. Although, direct and harsh the king may be, under all the icy looks and cruel remarks, lays true warmth and a caring nature.
“… Or else, that crazy bastard will come and haunt me if I don’t.” Heechul moans, stretching his back.
Hankyung face palms, he preferred to think that Heechul was caring inside. It made his job bearable.
*~
“I forgot to ask about that prisoner.” Ryeowook mumbles, sitting up on his bed suddenly.
“You forgot what?” The servant says, blinking his large doe eyes questioning.
“Nothing, Sungmin.” Ryeowook mumbles, slowing lying back down to only sit up again. “Do you know anything about a new prisoner?”
Sungmin scratches his cheek and purses his lips. He folds the fresh shirt on his lap and looks up to the prince and friend of ten years. “I did overhear something from the Knights-“
“You mean you overheard something from Kyuhyun,” Ryeowook smirks. Even though the two royal members were different in personality, when it came to smirks, they were no different.
Sungmin flushes a bright red and tries not to yell. If they were alone, without the guards outside Ryeowook’s door, he would’ve pranced on the smirking prince and wrestled him. But as he being only a servant and the other being royalty, he held back. It wouldn’t have looked good.
“As I was saying, I overheard something from the Knights,” He gives Ryeowook a pointed look. “And they said that an intruder got his way into the royal chambers. Of course, a few Knights caught him and then he was sent to the dungeons.”
“So that’s why there’s so many guards out tonight.” Ryeowook grumbles, staring towards his door.
Sungmin nods and finishes folding the clothes before putting them in the respected drawers. “No sneaking out into the gardens tonight.” He teases. “Oh, and someone said that the prisoner was under your Uncle’s law.”
Ryeowook raises an eyebrow. “Not the Dungeon Masters?”
“Nope. Kind of strange right?” Sungmin says. Smiling, he mock salutes, earning a giggle from Ryeowook, and closes the door behind him.
As the moon rises higher and shines brighter, Ryeowook tosses and turns in bed, unable to fall asleep.
…the prisoner was under your uncle’s law.
…dark, blazing eyes…
Heaving a heavy breath, Ryeowook gets up and pushes off his covers. The lingering images of the prisoner and the fact that his uncle gave the prisoner his protection was enough to push Ryeowook forward and crawl out the bedroom windows.
The chill of the night air wraps around his slim form, the nightshirt and pants barely holding in the heat. He sticks to the walls, using the shadows and trying hard to blend into the surroundings. Luckily, he doesn’t run into any of the Kingdom Knights and narrowly avoids a couple of servants.
“Why am I doing this? Crawling around the dark like some low-life, all for curiosity!” He mentally scolds himself. But it was as if the prisoner - his dark eyes - has cast a spell on his poor soul. He couldn’t get the image out of his head; he wanted, no needed, to see the man once more.
He shivers, stopping and looking around him. The halls were clear of people, but Ryeowook had the suspicion that he was being watched. Shaking the nervous thought away, he continues on.
He finally gets to the dungeons, walking down three flights of stairs sneaking past the guards. The raw odor - the gross stench - makes him halt and gag. Calming his breath, he uses the wall for support as he covers his nose and continues down.
“Well, well, who do we have here?” Came a rough voice in the dark. Ryeowook looks to his left to see the Dungeon Master, Kangin, sitting on a chair with a plate of food on the table - probably eating a late night meal. The big, burly man crosses his arms and raises an eyebrow. “And why is the pampered prince down here on such a late evening? Visiting the sewer rats is it?” A gruff chuckle.
Ryeowook keeps a brave front, although he was shaken to the bones. He despised the dungeon master, if not afraid of him. “I’m here to see someone.” He says, partially out of honesty and partially out of fear.
Kangin grumbles something and wipes his hands on his already dirty shirt. “Go on princess. Scream if you needed assistance.” He does a salute, although it was more of a lazy thump to the chest, and goes back to his dinner. Kangin just hated people period. Why else would he be living underground with some of the worst criminals in the kingdom as pets?
Holding in the whimpers, Ryeowook continues walking until he reaches an archway. To his left and right were rows of cells, each holding its prisoner - all dangerous and trained killers.
“Where are you?” Ryeowook thinks, nose scrunched up as he slowly moves, looking at each cell. He frowns when one certain person makes a rude gesture and flushes when another makes a suggestive gesture. This was only his second time down here, when he was younger; out of curiosity he dragged Sungmin with him to the dungeons. When the guards found them he tried to say that it was his idea, but it was no use. In the end, he stayed beside Sungmin and tended to his wounds and vowed to not drag him, or anyone else, into his adventures.
Deciding whether or not to go back up, where the air was fresh and people were sanitary; he spots a male, blending well into the darkness, slumped against the wall. If the moon didn’t decide to take a moment to shine through the cracks and into the cell, illuminating the man for that one second, Ryeowook would’ve missed him.
He carefully steps over to the cell and frowns when he sees the lock. Just as he is about to call for Kangin, a loud and rough voice echoes in the dungeon.
“Unless the spoiled bastard upstairs says it directly, they stay where they are!”
Pursing his lips, Ryeowook turns back to the male in the cell. Except for a few torches lined outside the cells, it was very dim and dark. Unless one was accustomed to it, you were blind as a bat.
“Um… excuse me…?” He calls, barely above a whisper. He scowls when the other cellmates call to him to get his attention.
The man doesn’t move, or speak. He just continues to sit, one knee up while the other lays flat on the ground. From what Ryeowook briefly saw on their first encounter and what he can make out now, the man wasn’t a typical thief. He had fine clothes, far from a desperate man like those around him, and had an aura, even in silence, that held control and dominance.
Ryeowook tries again, a bit louder. “Excuse me? You there, I want to speak to you…” He bites his lip when the man still doesn’t move. Just as the chill gets to him and he decides to leave, a low but rich voice calls to him.
“And what is it that the Prince of Pelia would want with me?”
Ryeowook’s cheeks heat up as he crouches and stares at the man in fascination. “So you can talk!” He whispers, delighted. “And how do you know I am the Prince?” He whispers, eyes narrowing. Only those on the grounds knew what their future King looked like, Ryeowook has never set foot outside nor has held his coronation yet.
“The clothes you wear and the way you hold yourself is enough for even a blind man to notice.” The man says, harsh and direct - much like his uncle.
The young prince huffs and wraps thin arms around himself. “Okay then.” He narrows his eyes peers into the cell.
“Don’t hurt yourself.” Came the low, but surprisingly gentle, voice.
“But I cannot see you! You are too blended into the dark, step out into the light.” Ryeowook commands. Even if he never was the demanding type, doesn’t mean that he couldn’t do it.
A flash of teeth - a smirk. “What makes you think I will listen to you? I’m a thief, an intruder, that has come here to do harm to the royal kingdom.”
Ryeowook frowns. “But you are under the King’s rule, which means you are also under my law indirectly. So, I say you stand and show me yourself.” He grins with pride when he is met with silence. His grin widens when the sound of shuffling feet and ruffling of clothes reaches his ears. Ryeowook also stands on his legs, heart thrumming with anticipation.
Step by step, the male comes closer to stand in the moonlight. Only the cell bars separating them, Ryeowook gasps at the closeness and the sheer beauty of the man. Fair skin with rosebud lips, accented cheeks with dark soft hair. But what stood out the most were the eyes - the eyes of fire, blazing even in the dimness of the room.
Ryeowook gulps heavily and tries to not fall at the piercing gaze of the male. “W-what is your name?”
The man, to Ryeowook’s horror and surprise, grins - just a lift of the corners of the fine lips. The prince’s heart pounds in his chest. “Why ask when there is a chance that I may lie to you?” The prisoner says, eyes playful but glinting with deadly threats.
Ryeowook doesn’t back down from the eyes, but his knees felt weak. “Even then, I still want to know.”
The man holds back a chuckle and the urge to pat the small males head. Instead, he crosses his arms and smirks when he notices the prince’s eyes trail up his toned arms and linger at his bare shoulder. “Curiosity killed the cat.” He whispers, keeping his eyes on the frail boy. Such beautiful complexion and rosy cheeks, tulip like lips and sparkling eyes catches the man’s attention, but he tries to ignore it. It was bad enough he was held captive, but he didn’t need to fall for the kingdom’s prince.
“Curiosity also solved many life questions.” Ryeowook counters. They stare each other down, until the man suddenly let’s out a breathless chuckle.
“Go back your mommy and wake up princess.” He taunts, his chest aching when he sees the hurt look in the younger males eyes. “Reality isn’t here. It’s beyond those walls.” Finalizing with a fiery glare, the man tilts his head to the side.
“My mother died giving birth to me.” Ryeowook whispers, eyes miserable. He turns to leave. “And yes, I’ve realized that a long time ago.” With that, he starts walking away. Just as he is earshot of the prisoner, Ryeowook halts when that voice speaks.
“Yesung.” Was the only word, but it held so much meaning.
Wavering whether he should go back and ask more questions, Ryeowook screws his eyes shut and decides to continue walking - he had some dignity to maintain. He ignores the rude call Kangin makes when he runs up the stairs and continues running, breaking out of the dungeons and into the morning light.
He safely make it to his room and lies there until the sun rises high enough for him to get out of bed again. At least he’s drowned his curiosity for the moment. Yesung…
*~
( Kingdom Knights - Part 2 )
Pairing: YeWook
Summary: When an unauthorized intruder is caught by the Kingdom Knights, how does this affect Ryeowook, the Prince of Pelia? Just what does his uncle have to do with all this?
Rating: PG13
“Milord, an unauthorized intruder has been caught in the royal chambers.” A guard cloaked in the colors of the Kingdom Knights reports. He kneels before the throne, his voice echoing in the vast hall, decorated in the rich colors of blue, purple and ivory.
“Bring him forth,” speaks the king, yawning and resting his head against his palm. His complexion is fair as his eyes are sharp like the daggers his guards carry. He had a smile that would melt any merchant and a sneer cold as ice. He was known throughout the kingdom as a playboy king, but nonetheless respected. Much like a lion, if you pulled at his fur the wrong way, he will bite back with no mercy.
The Knight leaves to soon return, flanked by two more Kingdom Knights and a prisoner held captive. The Knights bow and force the caught intruder to kneel before the King. Clothes weren’t what a merchant or a higher-class member would wear, but it wasn’t that of a low scum either. Dark waves covered the face of the bowed head as the arms that were bound behind his back kept flexing and straining against the restraints.
“Is a there a valid reason why you have trespassed onto royal grounds?” The King says, voice laced with boredom. He crosses his legs and looks down at the tied man, he sighs. “I do not have time to be doing this. If you will not answer, I will just throw you away to the Dungeon Master and have him take care of you.” The King leans forward slightly when the male continues to keep his head bowed and not answer. “And I promise you, you will wish it was I who gave you your punishment. Now, speak or forever hold your tongue.” The King quickly says, rolling his eyes and slumping back onto the throne.
Silence. The Knights and the Royal Advisor standing next to the throne, fidget slightly. The quieter it got, the more irritated their King would get.
“Speak if you know what is good for you.” Hisses one of the Knights holding the intruder. He knees him harshly in the back, which made the man look up and glare.
Taking a deep breath, he finally speaks. “Those who live in the comforts of royal ground surely will not see the hunger and despair that lies behind those walls.” The man shakes his hair out of his face to stare defiantly into the Kings unwavering, yet amused, eyes. “If merchants or aristocrats do not see, then it is inevitable that the vain King will also not see.” His voice was rich like velvet and smooth as silk. It was one of the finest voices, if not the best, the King has ever heard.
Bemused, the King leans forward on his throne. “And to make a difference, you tried to sneak into the royal palace? For what purpose? Surely, you didn’t think that you could take the entire squadron of the Kingdom Knights all by yourself? Tell me, brave but foolish thief, what was it you were going to gain?”
The man doesn’t answer, but continues to keep eye contact with the icy King. The Knights and Advisor gulps at the growing tension in the room. Nobody, not even the utmost courageous Knight, has the will and strength to stare at the King like this man.
Suddenly, the King barks out a laugh, which soon dies down to chuckles. “This man, is foolish and possibly dim-witted, but he has courage some of the Knights do not possess. Put him in the dungeons for now, but he’s under my law. So tell that dense Master that he will not lay a finger on him.”
Saluting, hands over their hearts, the Knights pull the man to his feet and turn towards the doors.
*~
“I wonder if he’ll let me off the grounds tomorrow.” A boy, shy of his twentieth year, walks along the empty corridor of the East Wing. He looks to his left, the windowless balcony letting in a warm autumn breeze as the sun sets in the horizon, disappearing beyond the mountains that divide the neighboring kingdom.
Curiosity and sadness fills the large orbs as the eyes scan the wide palace walls, separating the kingdom’s royal grounds from the bustling city outside. It always made the young boy frustrated that he was never allowed beyond those walls. All his life, he’s been confined in the safety of the guards and the palace grounds, most of his tutors telling him that nothing interesting lies out there in the city.
But he wanted to decide that himself, and he was going to no matter what the King said.
Footsteps and the shuffling of feet break his thoughts as he looks away from the balcony and down the hall. The dark cloaks of the Kingdom Knights blends into the shadows, a hue of black and burgundy. The lead Knight was in front and flanked by two other guards, with the dimness of the hall and how the men were positioned, it was hard for the curious boy to make out the man between the three men.
“Prince,” Says the Knights, saluting and halting their movement.
Nodding slightly, the boy tries to crane his neck and see who it was the Knights were so keen on shielding from him. Taking small steps he continues forward, but when he gets closer - the knights’ heads still bowed - he gets a glimpse of the captive man.
Dark, blazing eyes meet his, sending a shiver down his spine and raising goosebumps up his arms. Throat suddenly getting dry and his body unwilling to move, he musters all his strength to simply look away and breathe.
“Prince Ryeowook, are you alright?” A Knight asks.
Shaking his head slightly to clear his hazy mind, Ryeowook nods and smiles. “Yes. Um… carry on.” He whispers, trying with all his might to not look back at the held prisoner.
With another salute, the knights disappear down the way Ryeowook came as he continues walking. He lets out a shaky breath when he was a fair distance, but picks up his pace when his skin crawls. It was probably his imagination, but he could still feel those piercing eyes on him.
“I need to talk to Heechul,” he mumbles, his cloaks swishing with each movement.
*~
“And just what is it that you are about to do with this man, milord?” Asks the Advisor once the doors were sealed.
An amused smirk graces the full lips as the King leans on his elbows. “I’m not sure.” Came the simple reply.
Dumbfounded, the advisor almost falls, but catches himself. “What?” He hisses. “Milord, we do not know anything about this man. For all we know, he could be a spy from the neighboring lands! We can not waste-“
The King suddenly grasps the collar of the advisors shirt and pulls him towards his face. They were merely inches away as they stare into each other’s eyes. “Hankyung,” The King drawls, eyes playful but deadly. “I always did tell you to call me by my name when we’re alone, didn’t I? A smart man like you should know when to obey a direct order.”
Clearing his throat, Hankyung nods. “Yes… Heechul.”
Humming, Heechul smiles predatorily. “There we go.” He gently lets go of the shirt, but not before letting cool fingers caress the advisors jaw. Twirling a strand of his hair, Heechul leans back on the throne. “Although, foolish he may, the fire in his eyes was something.” He turns his head to look at Hankyung. “That is no ordinary man, I wouldn’t be surprised if he escaped the dungeons tonight.”
“But what are you planning?” Hankyung inquires, fixing his shirt. He groans and rolls his eyes when Heechul; the King of Pelia, the 56th descendant of the royal family, gives him his famous smirk and doesn’t answer.
Hankyung pinches the bridge of his nose and hugs the clipboard in his hand to his chest, as if that will lift the frustration off of him. “Why couldn’t I be assigned to the son of the King’s-“
Suddenly the doors open and in came a slightly flustered boy, his cloaks matching that of the Kings but not as glamorous.
“King. Advisor.” The small male says, acknowledging the two.
Hankyung salutes in return as Heechul smiles and spreads his arms. “Ah, Wookie,” He coos, waving his hand, “come to join me in my time of isolation? Come, sit.” He pats his knees.
Ryeowook frowns and resists the urge to roll his eyes and cross his arms. Even if they were related, he was still expected to respect the king. “I’m not a kid.” He huffs. He was still allowed some dignity.
Heechul chuckles. “Of course you aren’t. I often do mistake you as one still.” His eyes were twinkling with unfathomable mischief. “What brings you to come and see me?” He says, crossing his legs and leaning against his palm. “You rarely come down here to speak with me.”
Ryeowook’s head tilts higher as he raises his voice. “I would like a favor.” He didn’t want to sound pleading, but not too demanding either.
“Anything for you. What is it that you would like?” Heechul says, tilting his head to the side.
Hankyung pretends to be busy with his clipboard, but he was all ears. Ryeowook never, if avoided, asking favors to the King - his only relative.
Clearing his throat, Ryeowook looks Heechul in the eyes. “I wish you will grant me permission to leave the palace grounds.” Body tense and ready for argument, Ryeowook stands his ground and tries not to remove his gaze to the floor. It was easier to have a staring competition with something that wouldn’t glare you down.
But to his surprise, Heechul shrugs and waves his hand dismissively. “Is that all? Go ahead, you have my permission.”
Ryeowook blinks furiously as the words process, a big grin splits his face as his eyes sparkle. “Really? You really mean it?”
Heechul chuckles. “Do you doubt me so? I said yes didn’t I?” He uncrosses his legs and stretches his arms. “Under the condition that you’ll take ten Knights and be back before sunset, of course.”
Hankyung winces when Ryeowook nods furiously, afraid the poor boys neck will snap with the effort.
“Of course! Thank you Uncle!” Ryeowook shouts with glee. He salutes and skips out of the hall, a newfound spring in each step.
“Are you sure? I thought you banned him of going out the walls until his coronation?” Hankyung inquires.
Heechul just smiles, a rare true smile, “He is of age, I think he needs to find the hardships of his own kingdom for him to be a truly great ruler one day.” He looks towards the high windows and the sunset painted sky. “I would be doing a favor for my dead brother by making sure his son grows to be a good king.”
A knowing smile graces Hankyung’s lip as he stays quiet and lets the King wander into his memories. Although, direct and harsh the king may be, under all the icy looks and cruel remarks, lays true warmth and a caring nature.
“… Or else, that crazy bastard will come and haunt me if I don’t.” Heechul moans, stretching his back.
Hankyung face palms, he preferred to think that Heechul was caring inside. It made his job bearable.
*~
“I forgot to ask about that prisoner.” Ryeowook mumbles, sitting up on his bed suddenly.
“You forgot what?” The servant says, blinking his large doe eyes questioning.
“Nothing, Sungmin.” Ryeowook mumbles, slowing lying back down to only sit up again. “Do you know anything about a new prisoner?”
Sungmin scratches his cheek and purses his lips. He folds the fresh shirt on his lap and looks up to the prince and friend of ten years. “I did overhear something from the Knights-“
“You mean you overheard something from Kyuhyun,” Ryeowook smirks. Even though the two royal members were different in personality, when it came to smirks, they were no different.
Sungmin flushes a bright red and tries not to yell. If they were alone, without the guards outside Ryeowook’s door, he would’ve pranced on the smirking prince and wrestled him. But as he being only a servant and the other being royalty, he held back. It wouldn’t have looked good.
“As I was saying, I overheard something from the Knights,” He gives Ryeowook a pointed look. “And they said that an intruder got his way into the royal chambers. Of course, a few Knights caught him and then he was sent to the dungeons.”
“So that’s why there’s so many guards out tonight.” Ryeowook grumbles, staring towards his door.
Sungmin nods and finishes folding the clothes before putting them in the respected drawers. “No sneaking out into the gardens tonight.” He teases. “Oh, and someone said that the prisoner was under your Uncle’s law.”
Ryeowook raises an eyebrow. “Not the Dungeon Masters?”
“Nope. Kind of strange right?” Sungmin says. Smiling, he mock salutes, earning a giggle from Ryeowook, and closes the door behind him.
As the moon rises higher and shines brighter, Ryeowook tosses and turns in bed, unable to fall asleep.
…the prisoner was under your uncle’s law.
…dark, blazing eyes…
Heaving a heavy breath, Ryeowook gets up and pushes off his covers. The lingering images of the prisoner and the fact that his uncle gave the prisoner his protection was enough to push Ryeowook forward and crawl out the bedroom windows.
The chill of the night air wraps around his slim form, the nightshirt and pants barely holding in the heat. He sticks to the walls, using the shadows and trying hard to blend into the surroundings. Luckily, he doesn’t run into any of the Kingdom Knights and narrowly avoids a couple of servants.
“Why am I doing this? Crawling around the dark like some low-life, all for curiosity!” He mentally scolds himself. But it was as if the prisoner - his dark eyes - has cast a spell on his poor soul. He couldn’t get the image out of his head; he wanted, no needed, to see the man once more.
He shivers, stopping and looking around him. The halls were clear of people, but Ryeowook had the suspicion that he was being watched. Shaking the nervous thought away, he continues on.
He finally gets to the dungeons, walking down three flights of stairs sneaking past the guards. The raw odor - the gross stench - makes him halt and gag. Calming his breath, he uses the wall for support as he covers his nose and continues down.
“Well, well, who do we have here?” Came a rough voice in the dark. Ryeowook looks to his left to see the Dungeon Master, Kangin, sitting on a chair with a plate of food on the table - probably eating a late night meal. The big, burly man crosses his arms and raises an eyebrow. “And why is the pampered prince down here on such a late evening? Visiting the sewer rats is it?” A gruff chuckle.
Ryeowook keeps a brave front, although he was shaken to the bones. He despised the dungeon master, if not afraid of him. “I’m here to see someone.” He says, partially out of honesty and partially out of fear.
Kangin grumbles something and wipes his hands on his already dirty shirt. “Go on princess. Scream if you needed assistance.” He does a salute, although it was more of a lazy thump to the chest, and goes back to his dinner. Kangin just hated people period. Why else would he be living underground with some of the worst criminals in the kingdom as pets?
Holding in the whimpers, Ryeowook continues walking until he reaches an archway. To his left and right were rows of cells, each holding its prisoner - all dangerous and trained killers.
“Where are you?” Ryeowook thinks, nose scrunched up as he slowly moves, looking at each cell. He frowns when one certain person makes a rude gesture and flushes when another makes a suggestive gesture. This was only his second time down here, when he was younger; out of curiosity he dragged Sungmin with him to the dungeons. When the guards found them he tried to say that it was his idea, but it was no use. In the end, he stayed beside Sungmin and tended to his wounds and vowed to not drag him, or anyone else, into his adventures.
Deciding whether or not to go back up, where the air was fresh and people were sanitary; he spots a male, blending well into the darkness, slumped against the wall. If the moon didn’t decide to take a moment to shine through the cracks and into the cell, illuminating the man for that one second, Ryeowook would’ve missed him.
He carefully steps over to the cell and frowns when he sees the lock. Just as he is about to call for Kangin, a loud and rough voice echoes in the dungeon.
“Unless the spoiled bastard upstairs says it directly, they stay where they are!”
Pursing his lips, Ryeowook turns back to the male in the cell. Except for a few torches lined outside the cells, it was very dim and dark. Unless one was accustomed to it, you were blind as a bat.
“Um… excuse me…?” He calls, barely above a whisper. He scowls when the other cellmates call to him to get his attention.
The man doesn’t move, or speak. He just continues to sit, one knee up while the other lays flat on the ground. From what Ryeowook briefly saw on their first encounter and what he can make out now, the man wasn’t a typical thief. He had fine clothes, far from a desperate man like those around him, and had an aura, even in silence, that held control and dominance.
Ryeowook tries again, a bit louder. “Excuse me? You there, I want to speak to you…” He bites his lip when the man still doesn’t move. Just as the chill gets to him and he decides to leave, a low but rich voice calls to him.
“And what is it that the Prince of Pelia would want with me?”
Ryeowook’s cheeks heat up as he crouches and stares at the man in fascination. “So you can talk!” He whispers, delighted. “And how do you know I am the Prince?” He whispers, eyes narrowing. Only those on the grounds knew what their future King looked like, Ryeowook has never set foot outside nor has held his coronation yet.
“The clothes you wear and the way you hold yourself is enough for even a blind man to notice.” The man says, harsh and direct - much like his uncle.
The young prince huffs and wraps thin arms around himself. “Okay then.” He narrows his eyes peers into the cell.
“Don’t hurt yourself.” Came the low, but surprisingly gentle, voice.
“But I cannot see you! You are too blended into the dark, step out into the light.” Ryeowook commands. Even if he never was the demanding type, doesn’t mean that he couldn’t do it.
A flash of teeth - a smirk. “What makes you think I will listen to you? I’m a thief, an intruder, that has come here to do harm to the royal kingdom.”
Ryeowook frowns. “But you are under the King’s rule, which means you are also under my law indirectly. So, I say you stand and show me yourself.” He grins with pride when he is met with silence. His grin widens when the sound of shuffling feet and ruffling of clothes reaches his ears. Ryeowook also stands on his legs, heart thrumming with anticipation.
Step by step, the male comes closer to stand in the moonlight. Only the cell bars separating them, Ryeowook gasps at the closeness and the sheer beauty of the man. Fair skin with rosebud lips, accented cheeks with dark soft hair. But what stood out the most were the eyes - the eyes of fire, blazing even in the dimness of the room.
Ryeowook gulps heavily and tries to not fall at the piercing gaze of the male. “W-what is your name?”
The man, to Ryeowook’s horror and surprise, grins - just a lift of the corners of the fine lips. The prince’s heart pounds in his chest. “Why ask when there is a chance that I may lie to you?” The prisoner says, eyes playful but glinting with deadly threats.
Ryeowook doesn’t back down from the eyes, but his knees felt weak. “Even then, I still want to know.”
The man holds back a chuckle and the urge to pat the small males head. Instead, he crosses his arms and smirks when he notices the prince’s eyes trail up his toned arms and linger at his bare shoulder. “Curiosity killed the cat.” He whispers, keeping his eyes on the frail boy. Such beautiful complexion and rosy cheeks, tulip like lips and sparkling eyes catches the man’s attention, but he tries to ignore it. It was bad enough he was held captive, but he didn’t need to fall for the kingdom’s prince.
“Curiosity also solved many life questions.” Ryeowook counters. They stare each other down, until the man suddenly let’s out a breathless chuckle.
“Go back your mommy and wake up princess.” He taunts, his chest aching when he sees the hurt look in the younger males eyes. “Reality isn’t here. It’s beyond those walls.” Finalizing with a fiery glare, the man tilts his head to the side.
“My mother died giving birth to me.” Ryeowook whispers, eyes miserable. He turns to leave. “And yes, I’ve realized that a long time ago.” With that, he starts walking away. Just as he is earshot of the prisoner, Ryeowook halts when that voice speaks.
“Yesung.” Was the only word, but it held so much meaning.
Wavering whether he should go back and ask more questions, Ryeowook screws his eyes shut and decides to continue walking - he had some dignity to maintain. He ignores the rude call Kangin makes when he runs up the stairs and continues running, breaking out of the dungeons and into the morning light.
He safely make it to his room and lies there until the sun rises high enough for him to get out of bed again. At least he’s drowned his curiosity for the moment. Yesung…
*~
( Kingdom Knights - Part 2 )