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Chapter Text

Prince Kim Jongin is the son of King Siwon and his second Queen consort, Son Ye Jin. He becomes the heir to the throne after winning a battle with a rebellious chieftain. Hence King Siwon has no other choice but to name Prince Jongin as his heir over the crown Prince Taemin. Crown Prince Taemin never liked or accepted the fact that King Siwon fell in love with Princess YeJin, married her and chose to make her, his consort despite claiming his eternal love for his mother Queen Ji-Hyun. King Siwon loved both his Queens equally but his sons never believed him. Crown Prince Taemin always tried to belittle Prince Jongin. He went to lengths to destroy his reputation and credibility in front of the King but Prince Jongin always bounced back.
Prince Taemin and his younger brother Prince Jungwoo even tried killing Prince Jongin several times but Jongin narrowly escaped them.

Prince Jongin tried to win Prince Taemin’s trust but never succeeded. After a point of time, he gave up and concentrated on his mission. Jongin always wanted to be the country’s best soldier. He dreamed of an invincible army, all of whom personally picked and trained by him. He did manage to form an elite group but Prince Taemin and Prince Jungwoo thwarted his plans to expand the group. And that’s how the elite group became Jongin’s loyalists. Together they along with Jongin won many battles for King Siwon proving their worth. Prince Taemin too tried to form a group similar to Jongin’s but failed miserably. Thus began their clashes. In the beginning, whatever Taemin or Jungwoo did were more of pranks but as they grew older, Jongin’s popularity among the people, wit and charm made both the brothers jealous leading to their hatred towards him turn murderous. Little mishaps turned into full fledged assassinations. Jongin always survived.

It was not till one day, Prince Jungwoo openly poisoned Prince Jongin’s bath water that the fight between the half brothers peaked. When caught in the act, Prince Jungwoo refused to acknowledge Prince Jongin’s accusation. When a fist fight broke between the two, Prince Taemin and his cousin Prince Jaehyun joined in and beat up Prince Jongin. The commotion was loud enough for the King to barge inside Prince Jongin’s chambers along with Queen Ji-Hyun.
“What is going on here?” King Siwon’s voice was loud and menacing. The Princes stopped their fight at once.
“I want all of you in the throne room in ten minutes.” King Siwon looked terrifying. After he and Queen Ji-Hyun left, the King’s servants rushed to aid the Princes to get dry as they were dripping wet. The others left to their respective chambers to get dressed to meet the King, Jongin went to his mother’s room. Queen YeJin was soft spoken, kind and compassionate. It was her soft spoken words which attracted King Siwon to her. Jongin rushed inside to find his mother painting. Queen YeJin was a skilled artist. Her paintings were stunning and famous not only in their country but also the neighboring countries.

Jongin hugged his mother from the behind which startled her as Jongin was still wet. He told her everything. Queen YeJin calming listened to his every word while her servants fetched Jongin’s clothes and helped him change. She dried his hair and made some herbal tea so that he wouldn’t catch a cold. When Jongin was done, she calmly said, “Listen to him Jongin. No matter what he says or how ridiculous it seems. He is not only your father but also our King. Obey his commands. Could you please do this much for me?” she begs. Jongin knows he can never disobey his mother. He agrees and quickly leaves for the throne room. After his entrance is announced, Jongin braces himself and enters the room. As soon as he enters, he sees all of them seated in their seats. He knows that this is going to be a loosing battle. He walks up to the King, head held high, bows to him and waits for him to speak. King Siwon clears his throat buying some time. He is fond of Jongin more than the other Princes but never showed it in front of anyone. Not even his Queens are aware of this.

King Siwon has been hearing stories about how his sons are battling to win over being his heir to the throne. He always wanted Jongin to rule but rightfully the crown belongs to Taemin being his first born.
“I heard someone tried to kill you. Is it true?”
“Yes your majesty. It was one more failed attempt.” Jongin looks at Taemin.
“Ha Ha. Who will try to kill a Prince?” Taemin laughs and the rest join.
“There is a fool who has been trying to kill me for the last few years but has failed miserably each time.”
“Careful. Don’t underestimate your enemy.”
“I will stop once the enemy faces me directly. He who hides behind and then tries to attack is not a worthy opponent.”
“Whatever. Whoever survives will ascend the throne.” intervenes Prince Jungwoo.
“I beg to differ. The throne belongs to the one who has the courage to not only sit on it but also face challenges.”
“Leave the throne alone Jongin. You have no rights to claim it.” Jungwoo yells.
“Enough!” King Siwon’s voice echoes. He waves his hand in dismissal. The Princes leave the room quietly.

King Siwon calls for both his Queens. He tells them about what has been happening with the Princes and also the attempts made on Jongin’s life. Queen Ji-Hyun tells the King that since Jongin wants the throne he will kill his own brothers for it. Queen YeJin is calm and quiet. She knows no matter whatever she says, Queen JiHyun will convince the King that Jongin is out to kill his brothers.
“Stop him YeJin. If something should happen tomorrow, then the blame will be entirely yours.” Queen YeJin leaves to find Jongin. He is the royal stables attending to his horse. She approaches the horse who immediately neighs at her softly.
“So what do I have to sacrifice this time? Why is it always me mother?” He continues to brush his horse.
“Jongin, I want you to leave the palace. Go outside and live with the people like an ordinary citizen. Forget that you are a Prince. Never under any circumstances, reveal your real identity.”
Jongin stops. He understands what had happened. He decides to listen to his mother and leave.
“I am not worried about my safety. I wanted the throne for you, so that you will be finally be recognized as a Queen.” YeJin hugs her son and silently cries. Jongin rides his horse and leaves the palace at dawn.

Chapter Text

Prince Jongin travels far away from his kingdom. During his travel, he comes across many people. Some are kind. They offer him food, water and shelter. Some are outright rude. He endures everything thrown his way as he had promised his mother that he will live as an ordinary citizen and never reveal his true identity. Through his hardships, Jongin learns the meaning of life. He is glad that his mother made him leave the palace. After six months of wandering he finally finds a small town to rest for a while. The townspeople are kind and generous to every visitor. He really likes the simple life and cleanliness of the town. He even manages to find work as a blacksmith in a tiny shop making swords. The owner gives him food and a small hut to live.

One day, a man walks into the shop to place an order. Since the owner was away, Jongin takes his order. The man has a scarf wrapped around his face. Just as Jongin was about to turn around, a strong wind blows and the man’s scarf almost flies. It reveals his face. Jongin is awestruck by the man’s beauty. Yes he is beautiful for a man. White flawless skin, brown doe eyes filled with black eyeliner accentuating the almond shape, Greek nose and chiseled jawline with raven black hair. There is a regal air surrounding him. He is as tall as Jongin who is 6 ft. Perhaps an inch taller too. Unknowingly Jongin is drawn towards him like a moth to fire. As he steps a little bit closer, the man draws a small dagger swiftly and places it to Jongin’s throat. Jongin is surprised. The man speaks.
“One step closer and I will slit your throat.”
Jongin smiles. “I wouldn’t dare. Who are you?”
“Why do you care?”
“I am drawn to you. Tell me your name.”
The man shakes his head. “Ask your boss to keep my weapons ready. He knows me. I will come in 10 days to collect them.”

Before Jongin could utter another word, the man gets on his horse and gallops away. Jongin is mesmerized. When the owner returns later that night, Jongin recounts his meet and the boss immediately recognizes the man. Though however much Jongin asks, he doesn’t reveal the man’s identity. Jongin is now curious. Not only that, he is unable to forget his face. Every night, he sees the man’s face in his dreams. After 10 days, fortunately for Jongin, his boss had to deliver an order few hours away so Jongin is left to deal with the order. As the hour nears, Jongin’s excitement builds. Exactly at half past 11, the man arrives. When he sees Jongin, his eyes stare. Jongin feels as if he’s drowning in them.
“Even your eyes are beautiful.” He whispers hoarsely.
The man steps closer menacingly. Jongin doesn’t back down.
“What is your name?” He asks.
“Kai. And what’s yours?”
Jongin remembers his promise to his mother and that’s why he gives his name as Kai. Before he could answer, an arrow nearly misses them. Both of them simultaneously draw their swords.

Few men appear from behind the bushes.
“You have no where to hide Prince Sehun.” One of them screams.
“Prince Sehun?” Kai repeats. As the men draw closer to attack, another soldier appears out of nowhere and starts to fight with them. Prince Sehun and Kai join him. After an hour the three of them successfully defeat the men who are injured and retreat. The soldier turns to Prince Sehun and physically checks for wounds.
“Your highness, are you hurt?”
“No commander Ahn Bo-hyun.”
As Kai stares at commander Ahn Bo-hyun and feels jealous because he is touching Prince Sehun, he gets hit hard on his head and is knocked out. Before he blacks out, he sees Prince Sehun calling out his name. Kai smiles and passes out.

When he wakes up, Kai has a severe headache. He has a slight blurred vision. After few minutes, he is able to see clearly and finds himself inside a cave. He hears voices. One is of Prince Sehun and the other is of commander Ahn Bo-hyun. There is a third voice which is of a child.
“Your highness, why did you bring him here?”
“Because you hit him commander. What do you want me to do? Leave him there to die.”
“No your highness. I could have found help. This is risky.”
“Why did you hit him? Did he come to kill me?” asks the child.
“Prince Sejun please go inside. You shouldn’t be outside.” Ahn Bohyun talks to the child.
“Tell me. Did he come to kill me?”
“No Sejun. Now please go inside. I will come in and tell you.” Prince Sehun tells him gently.
“Hyung.” The child whines but still leaves.

Commander Ahn Bohyun continues to question Prince Sehun.
“Why did you bring him here Your highness? He could be anyone. Murderer or an assassin.”
“He saved my life.”
“We don’t know why. He could have an ulterior motive. If I may say, you might take your life lightly but Prince Sejun is my responsibility.”
“Sejun is my brother commander. Don’t you ever forget that.”
“Then let’s leave please. The longer we stay here, it’s not safe for both of you.”
“I cannot leave him in this condition.”
“But you will have to.”
“Commander Bohyun. Are you giving me an order?” Prince Sehun challenges.
“No your highness. I am just cautioning you.”
Jongin hears footsteps. Then he sees Prince Sehun enter the cave.

Seeing him awake, Prince Sehun reaches him.
“You awake? How are you feeling?”
“Dizzy.”
“Here drink this. The dizziness will subside.” says Sehun offering a wooden glass.
“I hope it’s not poison.”
Sehun just stares which makes Jongin drink it quietly. He feels sleepy and goes to sleep. Looks like Prince Sehun too is in a similar state as him, Jongin thinks to himself. The next morning when Jongin wakes up, he finds Sehun sleeping beside him. It seems that he had spent the entire night tending to Jongin based on the medicine cloths lying in a basin beside him. Jongin smiles softly at him. In daylight, Sehun is gorgeous, with his soft black hair almost reaching his eyes. Jongin pushes them away. He feels his chest tightening.

Chapter Text

Prince Sehun wakes up to find Jongin sitting next to him and staring.
“Good morning beautiful. Rise and Shine.” He smiles sweetly. For some reason, Sehun blushes.
“How are you feeling? Any pain?” asks Sehun getting up.
“So caring.”
“You seem fine.” Sehun tries to move away but Jongin pulls him closer.
“I still feel the pain, but if you leave, it will get worse.” Jongin says hoarsely. Sehun gets pulled in by Jongin’s charm. He thinks Jongin is going to kiss him.
“What’s happening? Get away from my brother. Don’t hurt him.” Prince Sejun shouts.
“Nothing. And no he is not hurting me.”
“But I saw him pulling your hand.”
Sehun goes to little Sejun. “No my love. He was trying to tell me a story.”
“Story? Oh I love stories. I too want to hear them.”

Prince Sehun smiles fondly at his brother. He elbows Jongin who smiles and clears his throat.
“I don’t know stories.”
“No you do.” cries Prince Sejun.
“Okay even if I know one, why should I tell you?”
“Because I am the future King. So I order you to tell me one now.”
Jongin pretends to be scared. “Please don’t kill me your highness. What story do you want to hear?”
“A King’s story.”
“Okay. Not long ago there lived a handsome young prince.”
“Like me?”
“No a lot older. He leaves his kingdom behind and roams around another in search of something.” says Jongin.
“What?”
“He doesn’t know but he comes across a beautiful angel one day.”
“Like me?” Prince Sejun asks anxiously.
“No like your brother here.”

Jongin winks at Sehun who blushes automatically.
“Geez a love story?” Prince Sejun hits his head.
“Yes. Why what’s wrong with a love story?” asks Jongin.
“Nothing. I am too young for it. Tell me an action story.”
“I don’t know any action story. I know only love stories because I am a romantic guy.”
“What’s the meaning of ro..that word?”
“It means..”
Jongin is interrupted by commander Bo-hyun’s loud voice.
“Breakfast is ready Prince Sejun.”
“But I want you to finish the story.”
“First breakfast then story.”
When the three of them go outside, commander Bo-hyun has already set up a wooden table filled with food. They sit down to eat.

While eating commander Bo-hyun asks Jongin how he feels.
“I feel better now. Thanks for the food.” says Jongin for which Bo-hyun simply shakes his head.
“Your highness we need to leave after breakfast.”
Prince Sehun agrees. Jongin looks at both of them.
“Where are you heading to?”
“To home. Sangju.”
“Oh even I am heading there. I will join you then.” says Jongin.
“But I thought you were from Hanyang?” Sehun asks him curiously.
“I am but I have some work in Sangju.”
“Then you can come along too.” says Prince Sejun.
“No. We won’t bother you. Let’s go Your highness.” Commander Bo-hyun tells Sejun sternly. Both the Princes leave immediately.

Few weeks later:

Prince Sehun misses Kai. He missed Kai’s non stop nonsense and even his not so subtle flirting, thinking of which Sehun starts blushing pink.
“Are you missing Kai?” asks Prince Sejun. Sehun just nods.
“Even I. I want to hear his stories.”
Commander Bo-hyun offers a plate of fruits to the Princes. Both of them start munching on it. They have taken shelter in an inn to eat and rest for a while before continuing their journey. Suddenly there is a loud noise and they find few rebel soldiers causing a commotion. Commander Bo-hyun asks Sehun to hide while carrying Sejun to safety. Prince Sehun finds a corner wall to hide and he tries to fit behind it. Just then there is tap on his shoulder. When he turns around, he sees Jongin next to him.
“Are you looking for me?”
Sehun whispers no. Jongin shushes him when they hear men’s voices nearby. The men were looking for Prince Sejun. Jongin pushes Sehun behind him. They see the men leaving.

When they find the coast clear, Jongin and Sehun run towards Jongin’s horse. They then gallop away. In a distance, they see Commander Bo-hyun fighting 10 men single handedly. They see Prince Sejun tied up on a horse. Jongin speeds close by. Once they reach them, both Jongin and Sehun jump on the men and start fending them off. Before long, Jongin swiftly kills all of them and saves the Princes. Commander Bohyun is slightly hurt. Sehun frees Sejun who hugs him and cries. Sehun consoles his little brother by gently kissing him on his head. Jongin feels a surge of love seeing them. They resume their journey together.
“Thank you for saving the Princes. I owe you one.” says Commander Bohyun.
“No need to thank me.”
“You fight well. Where did you learn?”
“I am a soldier of the Hanyang army.”
“Ah Ha. Hanyang army? And I am the commander of the Sangju army. Then we are enemies.” Both laugh but the atmosphere turns awkward.

Once they reach a safe distance, they find a small tavern to rest. Sehun and Sejun get a room together while Jongin and Bohyun get a room each. That evening, Jongin finds Sehun practicing with his sword. Jongin finds it erotic, the way Sehun moves around. When Sehun swings the sword around he nearly misses Jongin’s head.
“Whoa there. That’s not the way to do it.”
“How do you know that I am doing it wrong.” asks Sehun defyingly.
“Well to begin, you aren’t standing properly. Your stance is way off balance.” So saying Jongin gets behind him and holds Sehun’s elbow. Now they swing the sword together.
“Let the sword be a part of your body. Let it be a part of your soul.” Jongin whispers into Sehun’s ears huskily. Sehun feels goosebumps.
“No fear, no hesitation.. no sense of life or death. Focus only on your target.” Jongin pushes Sehun’s sword to swing the other way. Sehun feels the excitement. He breathes hard. His ears and cheeks turn pink.

Jongin gets in front of him.
“Now pounce on me. Eye to eye. Never shift your eyes from your enemy”. Jongin starts to get closer to Sehun. Sehun takes a step backwards. Jongin almost pushes him to a corner. Sehun closes his eyes. Jongin smiles and then kisses him softly.

Chapter Text

Sehun pushes Jongin away. He is flustered.
“Enough with today’s lessons.” Sehun’s voice is calm and normal. He walks towards his room without turning to look at Jongin. Jongin is mad. He knows Sehun likes him just like the way he likes Sehun. Meanwhile Sehun is inside his room trying to figure out what just happened. His whole body is shaking and he feels the need to release the tension. He likes Kai but doesn’t like the way Kai approaches him each time. Sehun is a Prince and needs to be treated like one. While he is fuming over Kai’s so called manhandling and melting thinking about the toe curling soft kiss, Prince Sejun walks into the room.
“What are you mumbling? Did you fight with Kai again?”
“Nothing. Did you finish your dinner?”
“Yes. Tell me a story.”
Sehun carries him to the bed and lays him down gently. He then sits beside him to tell a story.

Just then there is a knock on the door. When Sehun opens the door, he finds Jongin standing with a plate of fruits. Before both could speak, Prince Sejun calls for Jongin to come inside and tell him a story. Jongin smirks at Sehun and enters the room. He sits on the bed and cuts a piece of apple for Prince Sejun.
“What story do you want?”
“Continue with the one you started.”
“Are you sure? I thought you didn’t want a love story.”
“Yes but you said it has fight too.”
“Okay. Now where did I leave it?”
“The Prince came across a beautiful angel.”
“Oh. Yes he then started following the angel. He got to know that he was a human. A Prince to be precise.”
“Then?”
“Then the beautiful prince, told our prince not to follow him around. But our hero did not listen. One day there were few animals which tried to attack the beautiful prince. Our hero prince fought hard and saved him.”

Prince Sejun was listening intently while Sehun knew Jongin was talking about them. He hoped Jongin wouldn’t be crass enough to tell Sejun about their kiss. Luckily Jongin didn’t.
“Where was the prince from?” asks Sejun.
“The Prince had no kingdom. It was stolen from him.”
“Ah just like us. Someone stole our kingdom and lands too.” Sejun tells him sadly.
Jongin leans forward and pats Sehun’s cheek lightly.
“Aww don’t be sad your highness. So what? You have so much which no one can steal from you.”
“Like What?”
“The sun. It’s yours. The moon. The stars. All yours. The sky. They are all yours. No one can steal them from you.”
“Really?”
“Yes really. And one more thing. No one can steal your land or kingdom from you. I am here with you. I will get them back for you. That’s a promise.”

After Prince Sejun sleeps, Sehun covers him and kisses him on his forehead. Jongin loves to see them like this. He wants them in his life.
“Sehun..” Jongin’s voice is husky filled with emotion.
Prince Sehun turns around and almost faints seeing the love radiating in Jongin’s eyes. He reached over and shushes Jongin.
“Let’s go out to talk. He is a light sleeper.” Sehun pulls Jongin outside. Once outside, Jongin pushes him to a wall and starts to kiss him softly. Sehun moans. Jongin traces Sehun’s jawline with kisses. When he reaches Sehun’s lips, he places a gentle kiss and pulls away leaving Sehun moaning and breathless.
“Sehun.” Jongin croaks. He clears his throat and speaks again.
“Sehun, I haven’t told this to anyone before. I love you. Only you. I can’t think of anyone or anything but you. Hmm. Ever since I saw you first everything in my life has changed. I have changed. I don’t know what to do. If I didn’t tell you this, I feel like I would lose my mind.” Jongin stops out of breath. He just blurted out everything in one go.

Sehun smiles cutely. He pulls Jongin closer and says, “ I love you and only you...” and continues say exactly what Jongin said but softly, sweetly, lovingly with soft kisses in between. By the time, Sehun finishes repeating Jongin’s confession, both of them are breathing hard. Sehun is all pink and flustered and Jongin’s member is hard and standing erect. Jongin kisses him again. Sehun kisses him back. When they run out of breath, Jongin kisses him good night and leaves. That night, both cannot sleep much but they are happy. The next morning, when Sehun gets his breakfast, Commander Bohyun stops him to speak.
“Where were you last night your highness?”
“Why do you ask?”
“I was looking for you but couldn’t find you.”
“With Kai.”
“What were you doing with him? Is this the way to behave? He’s just an ordinary soldier.” Bohyun moves closer to him. He reaches out to hold Sehun’s hand.

Sehun pushes him away angrily. “Don’t you dare. Have you forgotten who I am?”
Bohyun smiles gently. “No I haven’t forgotten your highness. I love you and I respect you and your status. That’s the reason why I am overstepping my line and warning you. It’s not right for you to associate with him.”
“Did I ever tell you that I loved you?” asks Sehun.
“No your highness.”
“Then how could you assume that I will automatically love you. On the other hand thank you for loving and caring for me. I have always trusted and admired you as our army commander. At the most like an older brother. Nothing else. I am in love for the first time in my life. Yes I too love Jongin. So be careful of what you say about him in front of me.”
“You love him? Who is this guy? Is Kai really his name? Where does he come from?”
“I don’t know but I love him.” says Sehun.
“He’s nice to you and speaks sweetly. So does that make you love him?” Bohyun questions him.

Sehun tries to move away. “You think I don’t know what is love?”
“No you don’t.” Bohyun forcibly grabs Sehun’s hand. “You don’t know the difference between love and a commoner’s lust. He is but a commoner.” Bohyun pulls Sehun closer to him. He tries to kiss him. Sehun slaps.
“Don’t you dare forget that you are a commander and I am a Prince. You are my servant. A slave to our royal family.” He tries to pull out his hand from Bohyun’s tight grip but Bohyun holds tight.
“Yes I admit that I am a servant. A slave to the royal family but who are you? You think you are a Prince? The family you are so proud of..” Bohyun shuts his mouth and pushes Sehun away. Sehun’s face changes from anger to curiosity.
“What? What did you say? What about my family? Tell me Bohyun.” Sehun stares at him waiting for him to complete his sentence.

Chapter Text

Commander Bohyun refuses to look at Sehun. Sehun gets angry. He grabs Bohyun’s hand and forcibly turns the commander to face him.
“Tell me Bohyun. What nonsense are talking about?”
Bohyun looks at him but avoids his eyes. He was thinking twice now. He shouldn’t have said that in anger but now he had no choice. The truth had to come out someday. Better now than later.
“You were found by a merchant in a bin. He wanted to raise you as his own, but he wasn’t married at that time. His sister was our Queen’s close friend. Our Queen who saw you in her arms fell in love with you and our king adopted you. Years later, Prince Sejun was born. No one knows of your origin. Only selected few know of this as all who knew were sworn to secrecy. My father was the one who told me when I wanted to marry you.”
Sehun is devastated. His whole world had been shaken from the roots.
“Then who am I?”
“Nobody knows.”
“I don’t believe you. You are evil. Just because I refused you and your advances you had to hurt me like this?”

Bohyun tries to pull Sehun into his arms.
“No Sehun. It’s the truth. Why would I lie or hurt you? I love you. I wouldn’t stoop so low. Just forget what I said. You are a Prince still. No one knows and no one will know.”
Sehun pushes him away and cries hysterically. He starts walking away feeling numb, hurt and betrayed. Bohyun let’s him to be. It’s difficult to digest but Sehun has to overcome this situation. Soon Sehun is found by Jongin in the garden.
“Dreaming about me?” Jongin hugs him from behind. He rests his chin on Sehun’s shoulder. Sehun smells heavenly. He inhales Sehun’s scent and places a soft kiss on his neck. Sehun whimpers.
“Ah I know what you are the right now. You are a Prince and I am just a ordinary soldier. How will you marry me right?” Jongin looks at Sehun’s cheek and is about to kiss him, when he sees tears rolling down.
“My Prince, What happened?” He gently turns Sehun to face him. Seeing his tear filled eyes, Jongin cups Sehun’s face gently.
“What’s wrong my Prince?”

Sehun whimpers trying to hold his tears.
“I am no prince Kai. Hell I am not even a royal. Those whom I thought were my parents, are not my parents.” Sehun takes out his dagger and slashes his finger. When the blood oozes out, he holds his bleeding finger to Jongin and says, “This blood is of a ordinary citizen. I am not related to the King and Queen. They found me as an orphan. Then they raised me as their own.”
Jongin quickly sucks on Sehun’s bleeds finger to stop the blood flow. When he pulls it out, the bleeding still continues but mildly. He tears a piece of cloth from his scarf and ties a bandage to stop the blood flow. Sehun mindlessly continues, “I have no identity Kai. No one knows who I am.”
Jongin pulls him closer. He wipes his tears off.
“What difference does is there between a Prince and an ordinary citizen? Nothing has changed for me Sehun. I still love you and I will never stop loving you. You will always be a Prince in my eyes. My Prince.”
“How can you Kai? Without knowing who I am?”
“I know that you are my Prince. Mine.” Jongin kisses him passionately.

Sehun reciprocates. When they break apart, they are breathless.
“Come with me Sehun. Come now.” Jongin takes him on horseback to the nearest Confucian temple. The temple was empty except them. In front of the altar which had incense burning and some food, wine and ceremonial robes and silk cloth kept as offering. There were wooden geese figurines, symbols of life long fidelity. There was a big bowl of water placed in front. Just as Jongin approached the table, a priest appeared from behind the altar. Jongin simply tells him that they want to get married. The priest smiles and tells them that one of the villagers had offered the things in the morning as he hoped for his son to get married soon. He gives them the ceremonial robes. Jongin covers Sehun’s face with the silk veil. Sehun blushes from behind the veil. The priest then asks them to bow in front of the ancestral and bow to each other. Once they are done bowing, the priest then pours the wine into two cups and gives them each. They intertwine their hands and drink the wine. It’s the ceremonial rice wine served in weddings. The priest then chants few prayers and asks them bow down in from of the ancestors. Just then a rooster outside started to crow loudly. It was a sign as roosters were considered as symbol of fertility. And they were married.

Before they remove the robes to hand them over to the priest, the priest tells them to keep it. Jongin thanks him and they leave the temple. Jongin takes Sehun to an inn close by. Once they get into the room, Jongin quickly pounces on Sehun.
“Wait Wait hold on. Not so soon.” Sehun smiles at Jongin’s eagerness. Jongin groans.
“What now? I am your husband now. You can’t deny me my right.” Jongin tries to kiss him again. Sehun holds a finger to Jongin’s plush mouth to stop him.
“I am not denying you anything, my lord.” Jongin loves the sound of that.
“I am merely reminding you that you are to give me my wedding gift on our wedding night. So where is it?” Jongin swallows Sehun’s finger and pops it out.
“What do you want for a gift my Prince?” He asks huskily.
“Your horse.”
“It’s yours. Now..”
“Wait my lord I am not done yet. I want your sword.”
“Okay it’s yours. What else?”
“Now your clothes and before that a kiss on my cheeks.” Sehun points towards his cheek. Jongin pushes him on the bed and slowly bends down to kiss Sehun. “All yours my Prince. All yours. Now and forever.”

Chapter Text

The next morning, they leave happily to meet Prince Sejun to give him the good news. All through the ride back, Jongin can’t stop kissing or hugging Sehun. He whispers sweet nothings to Sehun making him blush profusely. After they reach the inn where Prince Sejun and Commander Bohyun are staying, Jongin sees one of his mother’s guard waiting for him patiently. Jongin asks Sehun to wait and he quickly walks across the road to meet the guard. The guard bows down and so does Jongin.
“Stop bowing to me.”
“Okay your highness as you wish.” The guard says loudly.
“Shh. Tell me why are you here?” Jongin looks at Sehun but thankfully he did not hear them. He could only see them talking. Sehun smiles at them. Jongin smiles back.
“Queen YeJin wants to meet you, your highness.”
“Talk softly. Tell her that I will not meet her.”
“She is very sick.”
Jongin’s face changes immediately. “Okay you can go now.”

After the guard leaves, Jongin reaches Sehun who hugs him lovingly. Jongin hugs him back. Sehun’s warmth calms him a little bit but he’s worried about the Queen mother’s health.
“What happened my lord? Why do you look worried?”
“Ah my mother is unwell.”
“You should go to her.” Sehun’s face had changed too.
“Are you sure? What about you and Prince Sejun?”
“We will stay here till your return. It is better this way. You should go and see her.”
Jongin shakes his head. Sehun kisses his nose and smiles. He whispers his love for Jongin. That afternoon, Sehun and Jongin inform Prince Sejun about Jongin’s departure. The Prince is visibly upset.
“What? You are leaving again? But you just got here. I am not letting you go this time.” He rushes to Jongin and hugs his leg. Jongin bends down and carries him.

Sejun hugs him tightly. Sehun’s heart swells with love seeing their beautiful bond.
“Your highness, it is only a matter of few days. I will be back soon.”
“Hmm. You did not even finish that story.”
“Oh no. Now where were we?”
“Let me think. Got it. The monsters were killed.”
“Yes the Prince killed them all. The beautiful angel’s anger to subsided a little and slowly turned into love. Then our Prince asked him to marry him.”
“The angel would have said yes really?” says prince Sejun excitedly.
“Of course.”
“Then?”
“The Prince had to leave.”
“Go where?”
“To meet his mother. She was sick.”
This gets Prince Sejun sad. “Ah this is a sad story then.”
“No your highness. The Prince will return with horses and his warriors to take his angel back home to his palace.”

Sehun knows that Jongin is talking about them.
“Tell the Prince to come back soon. The angel will be waiting for him eagerly.” He smiles at Jongin. Jongin smiles softly.
“The Prince will definitely return. Please take care of Prince Sehun your highness. I leave him under your protection.” Jongin kisses Sejun’s head who nods his head and hugs him tightly. Jongin carries his bag and leaves. After a few steps he turns around to see Sehun running towards him. They hug tightly. Sehun’s tears fall down his cheeks and Jongin kisses them away.
“Hurry back my love.” Sehun kisses him one last time before Jongin leaves.

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It takes Jongin several days to reach Hanyang because he had to walk. As promised, he leaves his sword and beloved horse behind with Sehun. Once he reaches the city gates, he sees one of his mother’s palace guard. He climbs on top of the chariot which takes him to his mother’s palace. Queen YeJin’s palace is smaller and simple when compared to the other royals. Jongin jumps out of the chariot and runs inside as soon as they enter the courtyard. He finds his mother as usual in the garden. Jongin hugs his mother from behind. She shouts and turns around to see him and immediately hugs him.
“You look alright. Then why did your guard tell me that you were sick?”
“If he hadn’t lied like I told him to, you wouldn’t have come to see me.” Queen YeJin tells him fondly.
“Have you seen me properly?”
“Yes I have.”
“Then I must leave now. Someone is waiting for me.”
“Who is it?” Queen YeJin asks him curiously.
“Oh someone sweet like an angel.”

Queen YeJin hugs him seeing his happy face. He deserves all the happiness in the world.
“Who is it? Tell me.”
“Sehun.”
“Sehun? Who is his family?”
“We are his family. I have married him mother.”
“Married? Then why didn’t you bring him along with you?”
“Huh not like this mother. I will bring him to Hanyang in a grand manner. There will be fireworks and the whole kingdom will gather in the streets to welcome him. Then I will reveal my real identity to him.”
“What? You haven’t told him yet?”
“Not yet. But soon I will bring him here.”
“Then you should meet your father and seek his blessings.” Queen YeJin says happily. Jongin just nods his head but he has no intention to do so.

Meanwhile Commander Bohyun moves out of the inn and finds a safe house in the village. It’s the house of his father’s trusted friend and a true loyalist to the kingdom. He leaves both the Princes in his care.
“I really thought they had killed them. There is a rumor going on in Sangju that soon someone is going to take the throne.”
“Yes I heard it too. That’s why I am leaving the Princes in your care. Don’t let them out of your sight.” Bohyun then turns towards Sehun and Sejun and asks them to give him their royal seals and necklaces. Sehun’s necklace is a sun and Sejun’s is a moon. Jongin liked the engraving in Sehun’s necklace. Bohyun gives them to the man and tells him to hide it. The enemy will recognize the Princes identities only if they find the necklaces. Bohyun reassured that the Princes were safe leaves for Sangju.

Chapter Text

Jongin soon meets Prince Taemin. He is genuinely happy to see them again after a year. Yes it’s been a year since he left the palace. In his eagerness, Jongin hugs Prince Taemin, Prince Jungwoo and even Prince Haechan their cousin, Prince Taemin’s mother’s sister’s son. They are astonished at the sight of Jongin smiling and hugging them.
“Where were you all this while?” asks Prince Taemin surprised.
“Well, I was traveling around.”
“You look well. Happy.” says Prince Haechan.
“Yes I am. Taemin, I don’t want the throne or the crown. I don’t want anything.” Jongin tells him.
“Unbelievable” says Taemin.
“Yes. Have you been in love?”
“Love?” asks Taemin.
“Yes love. If you haven’t then I suggest you should.” Jongin hugs him one last time and leaves.

Jongin visits the king’s palace. King Siwon is happy to see him.
“Welcome back son. You finally remembered your father? Nice to see you after a year.”
“I am sorry your majesty. I really wanted to see you but I was busy.”
“Busy? With what? There is a rebellion rising in the north and threatening our kingdom. Go there.”
“But your majesty..”
“Any problem??” King Siwon stares at him. All his protests dies down his throat.
“No your majesty.”
“That’s settled. You can leave now.” King Siwon dismisses him. Jongin misses Sehun so he decides to meet him and ask him to wait a bit longer as he will be traveling with his army. Without telling anyone except his trusted man, General Jisung, Jongin leaves to meet Sehun.

Meanwhile Sehun misses Kai a lot. Prince Sejun too misses him. Commander Bohyun meets the prime minister of Sangju to verify the rumors of someone trying to sit on the throne. Turns out that it is the prime minister himself who has conspired and plotted to kill Prince Sejun and sit on his throne as the next king. When Commander Bohyun leaves to forewarn his Princes, the prime minister’s men follow him and attack Bohyun injuring him. They find out where the Princes are hiding from a map of the village from the commander’s pouch. Then the entourage of conspirators, reach the village where Prince Sejun and Prince Sehun are kept hidden.
They search for the Princes extensively. Nobody wants to give them the details.so they attack the villagers by beating them up and setting their huts on fire.
“Search every nook and corner. Both the Princes are here. I am warning all of you. Whoever has hidden them, you better hand them over to us. Otherwise we will spare no one. If we have to kill everyone, till the last person alive, we will. We will burn this village down and leave no traces of your existence.” The leader screams after his men had gathered the villagers to the town center.

Commander Bohyun’s friend who was hiding the Princes in his house, tells his son not to reveal the identity of the Princes no matter what. He then goes out to help his neighbors to douse the fire in the next house. The son then along with his son, makes sure to hide the Princes in their basement. He then gathers his most trusted servants and gives them money, food and weapons and asks them to hide in the basement along with the Princes. He swears them to secrecy and to protect both the Princes at all costs even if they have to sacrifice themselves for it. When Sehun hears that, he tries to stop him but the man tells him that it’s both his duty and honor to sacrifice his life for the country and his Princes. The man then goes to search for his son. He then finds the Princes necklaces which his father had hidden. He removes them from the box and wears Prince Sehun’s necklace. Next he makes his son wear prince Sejun’s necklace. Sehun now realizes what the man meant by sacrificing himself. He literally meant that he and his son would take the places of Prince Sejun and Sehun.

Sehun is shocked. Before he could do something, the evil conspirators enter the house. They shout loudly asking to see if they have hidden the Princes. Until one of them finds the man and his son hiding behind a wall. He pulls him out his hiding spot. Then he sees the Princes necklaces on his neck.
“Call everyone and tell them the search is over. I have the Princes.” He then proceeds to tie the man and his son. When their leader arrives, he checks the necklaces and confirms that indeed it is Prince Sehun and Prince Sejun. As none of them have met or seen the real Princes they believe the leader who has also not seen the Princes in person. They all have been shown a diagram of the Princes necklaces so they are convinced that the people who are wearing the royal necklaces are the Princes.
The leader then proceeds to behead both the Princes, right in front of Sehun. Sehun is devastated. He never thought that his people would willingly sacrifice themselves to protect them. He cries silently for their sacrifice.

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Commander Bohyun who was left injured by the prime minister’s men, returns to the village only to find it burnt. Most of the villagers had been brutally killed. There were a handful of survivors. He is devastated by the scene in front of him. When he reaches the loyalist’s house, he finds it burnt down. He comes to know of how the man’s son and grandson had bravely sacrificed themselves instead of the Princes.

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Jongin reaches the village where he had last seen Sehun. He sees Commander Bohyun and few men walking back to the village in a distance. He rides to meet them. When he gets down from his horse, he sees commander Bohyun who is gravely injured limping with a stick.
“What happened to you? Why are you injured? Are Sehun and Sejun safe? Where are they? Where are you coming from?”
“Too late for these questions Kai. Both of them are dead.”

Chapter Text

“No. You are lying. Bohyun I am going to ask you one more time. Where are Sehun and Prince Sejun?”
“I told you that both of them are dead.”
“No. No I don’t believe.”
“You don’t believe me or you don’t want to believe. There is a difference.”
“How?” At last Jongin believes him.
“They got to them Kai. Before I could do anything. I was not able to save them. It’s all over now.” Bohyun climbs on top of his horse and gallops away leaving Jongin heartbroken.
Jongin’s world has turned upside down. How can he survive now? Sehun was a breath of fresh air. They took him soon. And little Sejun. Too young to die. Jongin felt that now he had no reason to live. He wanted to, no he wished for death. Jongin walks numbly towards a cliff where Sehun and he spent some time.

When he was about to throw himself down, his general Jisung and the commander in Chief Heechul who is also Jongin’s cousin(mother’s brother’s son) stop him. They find it difficult to pull him back as he is strong but they try anyway. After much struggle, they finally succeed in restraining Jongin from committing suicide.
“What are you trying to do? Jongin, brother it’s not like you.” Heechul asks him.
“Hyung..hyung..they killed Sehun.” Jongin cries loudly in pain. Hearing the raw pain in his voice, Heechul pulls his little brother and hugs him. Jongin buries himself in Heechul’s hug and cries his heart out. Heechul gently pats his hair and rubs his back and allows him to cry as much as he wants. It tears Heechul’s heart to witness the great warrior to break down in agony and tears.

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Few days later:

Commander Bohyun pushes Sehun and Prince Sejun inside a cave and covers the mouth of it with thick branches of trees. It will be impossible for Sehun to push them without help.
“What are you doing Commander? I have to go. Kai will be waiting for me.” Sehun yells at him.
“No your highness. People like Kai will never come back.”
“He will come back. He promised me. His horse is still here.” cries Prince Sejun.
Bohyun walks away without turning back.

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A week later:

Jongin is inconsolable. Yet he prepares to join the rebellion in the north.
“Jongin you need more shields to protect yourself. Otherwise how will end up winning? A dead warrior can never be victorious.” says Heechul as they were personally going through their weapons.
“I am not looking for victory hyung. I am looking to die.”
Heechul taps gently on his shoulder. Jongin turns to look at him.
“Was he really handsome?”
“Yes. Like a heavenly being. A beautiful angel. My angel. My Prince.” Jongin’s voice is soft and endearing.

Same night, Sehun prepares to escape from the cave. When he is about to leave, Sejun stops him.
“Where are you going? Are you going to Kai?”
“Yes.”
“Then take me with you.”
“No. You will remain here with Commander Bohyun.”
“No I won’t. And if you leave me behind I will scream and wake up the commander.”
“You won’t?”
“Watch me.” When Sejun is about to scream, Sehun shuts his mouth and takes him along.

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Weeks turn into months. After tirelessly fighting and capturing the rebellion in the north, king Siwon sends Jongin to other parts of the country to fight the rebellions and sort out the unrest. Jongin keeps winning over many battles. He isn’t afraid to die, therefore his fearlessness makes him invincible in front of the enemies. Meanwhile things stir up in the royal palace of Hanyang. Prince Taemin and Prince Jungwoo become restless after hearing Jongin’s victories. They devise a plan and hire an assassin to kill Jongin in the battle field. The assassin poisons his sword and strikes Jongin at a crucial moment. Jongin falls down beaten but is still alive. Commander Heechul takes him to a monastery to help him recover. The monks in there are friends of their family and are sworn to secrecy to protect Jongin from his enemies. They start treating him for his wounds but Jongin looses conscious. Heechul and the monks are worried.

Meanwhile, Sehun keeps searching for Jongin. He is pregnant and nearing birth. Yes he was carrying Jongin’s child. No one knows except for Sejun. They stop by every single army camp of Hanyang and ask about Jongin but none of the soldiers know of him. When it’s time for the birth of his child, Sehun luckily finds a small inn on time. Both the innkeeper and his wife are kind and they let them stay without payment. With great difficulty, Sehun gives birth to a healthy baby boy. Sehun and Sejun stay in the inn for few more weeks till Sehun fully recovers from child birth.

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After months, Jongin finally gains consciousness and even recovers. He spends most of his time in his mother’s palace. He is always silent and brooding. No one knows what really is wrong with him except for Heechul. Queen YeJin asks Heechul what happened. He explains about how brutally Sehun was killed as he and Jisung had gone enquiring in the villages. Queen YeJin is heartbroken for her son.
“He hardly sleeps your majesty. Even in his sleep, he keeps calling out Sehun’s name. He will never overcome his death.”
“What kind of love story is this? The love is kept alive even after death.” says Jaemin, Heechul’s brother who was visiting his aunt and stayed back to help Queen YeJin and Heechul in looking after and nursing Jongin back to health. Over the last two months, Jaemin had fallen in love with Prince Jongin but he came to know about Jongin’s love and marriage to Sehun and his death.

Jongin was like a zombie. Just existing. He tried to live but his time with Sehun kept coming back to haunt, making it impossible for Jongin to live. He tried couple of times to end his life. But each time, either his mother or Heechul would save him. Once even, Jaemin caught him from drowning. That night, Jaemin heard Jongin howling for Sehun. It was unbearable. The pain and anguish in his voice. Jaemin rushes inside and on an impulse hugs Jongin. Jongin bear hugs him and cries over his bosom. Jaemin coos softly while Jongin finally sleeps. Jaemin stays by his bedside the entire night. From the next day onwards, Jaemin personally attends to Jongin’s wounds which were healing but left visible scars.

Chapter Text

Few days later:

Jongin still had difficulty sleeping at nights. So the healer gave him herbal tea to help him sleep. Jaemin, who was a self appointed nurse made sure he gave the medicine to Jongin himself. One night, Jaemin had to attend a prayer meeting and was half an hour late to give Jongin his medicine. When he entered Jongin’s room, the sight in front of him, chilled him to bones. Someone was trying to feed Jongin. Jaemin pushed him away. The assassin tried to fight Jaemin. Both fell on the floor and a scuffle broke out. Hearing the commotion, Jisung who was on his way to meet Prince Jongin rushed in. He then sounded the alarm. Together with Jisung, Jaemin beat the thug till the guards arrive. When he was being chained, the assassin quick swallows a paste and falls down dead on the floor. Jongin wakes up to see the dead assassin. The next day, Heechul fills him in of the details. Jongin thanks Jaemin for his bravery.
“Don’t thank me your highness. I did it out of love.” says Jaemin.
“Love?”
“Yes. I love you..”
“I am sorry. I don’t believe in love anymore for it can cause only pain.”
“Yes I know all about your love for Sehun. I know no one else can take his place. I hope to serve you still. Yes I have hope that things will change in the future.”

Jongin shakes his head negatively. He tries to avoid Jaemin for a while but it gets impossible to. One day, Queen YeJin asks Jongin to marry Jaemin.
“You need a heir when you become the king. Jaemin is sweet and well mannered. He will make the perfect partner for you.”
“No mother. I had promised myself to Sehun. Only he has the right to sit next to me.”
“But son..”
“No mother, I have been obedient so far because I never wanted to hurt you. This is one thing I can never do for you. Please don’t bring this subject ever again.”
Queen YeJin stopped pestering Jongin after that. After hearing about Jongin’s refusal, Jaemin still continues to be at Jongin’s side.

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Soon Sehun and Sejun reach Hanyang with Taeil, Sehun and Kai’s son in search of Kai. Taeil is now a year old. Their search for Kai is in vein as nobody knows of a soldier by that name. Just when they were nearing the palace, Commander Bohyun catches them. He is shocked to see baby Taeil but he instantly realizes that he is Sehun’s and Kai’s son.
“What are you doing here your highness?”
“I am here to find Kai.”
“Let’s leave. It is not safe here for Prince Sejun.”
“I am not leaving till I find Kai.”
“Fine. Then you can stay and look for him but I am taking Prince Sejun with me back to Sangju.”
Thus Bohyun indirectly forces Sehun to return to Sangju.

Once they reach Sangju, Commander Bohyun along with his trusted soldiers and the late King’s loyalists, expose the corrupt prime minister’s plans to overthrow Prince Sejun and sit on the throne himself. Bohyun even reveals the countless attempts the prime minister had made to kill the Princes. They bring in the witnesses. Finally the royal court decides on the prime minister’s punishment. He was to be hanged till death. The royal court welcomed both the Princes with a grand welcome party. Sehun is happy for Sejun but he misses Kai a lot. Commander Bohyun sees Sehun’s gloomy face, “didn’t I promise you that one day, I will definitely return you to your rightful place? Aren’t you happy to be back?”
“Yes you did and I am happy. I just wish Kai was here.”
“Ah enough. Till when will you wait for him?”
“Till his return.”
“What if he never returns? What then? What will happen to your son?”
“I will wait. And so will my son.”
“Why can’t you just give up. I know you will never love me but I am willing to still be by your side. I will raise Prince Taeil as my own. No one will know.”
“Thanks But no. He will be known as only Kai’s son.

Soon King Siwon gets injured in one of the battles. When he brought to the palace, he is in critical condition. The royal doctors tell both the Queens that he will not survive the night. King Siwon calls for Jongin and makes him the king against Queen Ji-Hyun’s and Prince Taemin and Prince Jungwoo protests. After which Siwon succumbs to his wounds. After the King’s funeral, Prince Jongin is crowned as the King of Hanyang. He immediately goes to battle with a renewed energy. Jongin keeps winning every battle. During his conquests, Prince Taemin, Prince Jungwoo and their cousin Prince Haechan try to kill King Jongin again but they fail miserably. King Jongin kills Prince Taemin and Prince Jungwoo But Prince Haechan though severely hurt escapes and seeks refuge in Sangju. King Jongin continues his conquests. He conquers many cities and soon reaches Sangju. Commander Heechul tells him that Prince Haechan is hiding in Sangju with the help of the king. Jongin decides to invade the kingdom of Sangju. Little does he know that the king with whom he is going to battle with is Prince Sejun.

King Jongin sends a message to Sangju to peacefully handover Prince Haechan failing which they have to prepare for a war. He receives a reply that states The kingdom of Sangju will not bow down to a king who kills his own brothers. Left with no choice, Jongin leads the front line. Prince Sehun and Commander Bohyun join the battle. They fight bravely inspite of heavy losses. In the midst of the battle field, Jongin sees Sehun. At first, he thinks he sees an illusion but then he sees Commander Bohyun beside him and that’s when he realizes that it is true and not him seeing an illusion. By then, King Jongin’s side wins the battle. The Hanyang army rounds up the survivors as prisoners. When someone tries to kill Sehun, Jongin jumps in front of the sword to protect Sehun and gets hurt fatally. Sehun looks at the man who had saved him only for him to realize that it was his Kai. Kai is lover, his husband and Prince Taeil’s father.
“Kai, Kai oh Kai.. Where were you all these days? Oh god Kai you are hurt. Come let me find you a doctor.” Sehun cries seeing all the blood flowing from Jongin’s wounds.
“It’s too late. I won’t live long. Thank god I saw you before I died.” Jongin touches Sehun’s face tenderly.
“No Kai don’t say that. You have to live. I have to introduce you to your son. Our son.”

Jongin looks at him fondly. The pain is excruciating. He hears Sehun’s words.
“Son? We have a son?”
“Yes Kai. Taeil. He is going to be two years in few months.”
By then Commander Heechul, General Jisung and Commander Bohyun reach them.
Jongin looks at Heechul, “Look hyung, this is my Sehun. Doesn’t he look like an angel? Hyung I have a son. I have a heir to my throne. We have a future king. Take him and Sehun to my mother hyung. Take care of them.”
“I will your majesty.”
Jongin’s eyes begin to blur. He knows the time as come. He pulls Sehun closer and kisses his forehead. “I love you. I have loved you since the day I saw you at the black smith. Never forget that. I have to leave you my love. My Prince.” Jongin kisses Sehun softly on his lips and breathes his last. Sehun hugs Jongin’s lifeless body and cries his heart out.

Few weeks later, after Commander Heechul reveals Jongin’s real identity that he is not Kai the simple soldier of Hanyang but is the prince Jongin who was crowned the king few months ago upon the death of Siwon, Sehun moves into the Hanyang palace with Prince Taeil as the rightful crown prince. Sehun is crowned as the Prince consort of the late king Jongin. He knows Kai has kept his promise of making him his prince. Yes he will always remember him as Kai his handsome soldier, his husband and the father of his son.