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Chapter Text

The king and queen of Ardmendia have died.

The headline ran in every newspaper within the kingdom. Every radio station covered every ounce of the tragic news, and even television channels broadcasted footage from outside the palace gates. Everyone was buzzing with the news and what it meant. The faceless and nameless prince would finally come out of hiding. For the last thirty years, the prince had been kept a secret from the kingdom he was to inherit. All anyone knew was that he was the king and queen's only child. They didn't know his name, his face, or even his birthday. Many speculated how old he actually was while others doubted he existed at all. Now, they were closer to finding out the truth.

A notice had been sent out that anyone between the ages of twenty and thirty would come to the palace to become a prospect for marrying the prince. Many were skeptical, not wanting to send their children into the unknown, but they were also curious. In the end, all the daughters of Ardmendia were dressed in their best and were eager to be sent to the palace, including the five daughters of the Lee household.

Ardmendia was a small kingdom existing on an island between Japan and Korea. There were a total of a hundred thousand residents, and anyone who was middle-class to working-class lived in tiny and connected neighborhoods. That was where the eight members of the Lee family lived. In a small two-bedroom house squeezed between two other identical ones. They were considered middle-class, but the world had turned cruel for them. Feeding eight mouths wasn't easy, and finances ran tight. The children rarely saw their father as he was always running from one job to another to keep a roof over their heads. Their oldest and only son, Seokmin, had gotten his first job in a marketplace to help out, but his paychecks hardly made a dent in their ever-growing debt. A Lee daughter marrying the prince would solve all their problems, and their mother was determined to see it happen. There was one problem standing in her way. All the girls who had gone to the palace had returned almost catatonic. Their eyes were glazed over in a dream-like state, and their skin was as pale as fresh snowfall. They remembered nothing of their trip to the palace and claimed to have never met the prince. No one could figure out what happened to them, and though they were desperate, verging on pathetic, the Lee refused to sacrifice their daughters. That was when their mother came up with a brilliant idea.

"You want me to go to the palace?" Seokmin repeated.

He wasn't sure if he heard correctly. He just finished a fourteen-hour shift and was running on five hours of sleep. Perhaps he was delirious and imagining that his mother was willing to sacrifice her only son in place of her daughters.

"Yes." His mother's voice was clear but had crisp determination in it.

She had formulated the plan and sought to see it through. There would be no arguing with her.

"What am I even supposed to do? He wants women. Surely, I won't even be let in." He tried.

She had to see the logic in his reasoning. She was a brilliant woman. Surely, they weren't this desperate. He would simply get another job if things were so bad. Besides, he couldn't work anymore if he became catatonic.

His mother's eyes remained trained on the wall in front of her. She refused to look at him. She always did. It was as if she was afraid to look her look at her children and feel emotions for them. She always kept them at arm's length, a way to protect her fragile heart. It was something he had grown to accept and expect, but it left him empty, longing for someone, anyone, to pay attention to him, outside of wanting his help. His heart cried out for love, but he stayed silent upon his mother's deaf heart. His family's stomachs were too empty to worry about his empty heart.

"The notice said anyone between twenty and thirty. You are twenty-nine." She stated logically. "Besides, you would be going to gain an understanding of what is happening to the girls who go there."

"How am I supposed to do that?"

"Every girl is allowed one escort, as is proper. Nothing ever happens to them because they're placed in a separate room when the girls meet the prince. Therefore, you'll be safe."

Seokmin narrowed his eyes. "You're not sending the girls until you know what is going on, so who am I supposed to escort?"

"Your cousin, Danmi, is heading to the palace tomorrow. I've discussed it with her parents, and they would like you to escort her."

It was nothing new, but Seokmin was still surprised at how well-thought-out her plan was. Every question he had, she had an answer. No detail was skipped. She was truly a remarkable woman as well as terrifying.

"I have no choice, do I?" He said it more to himself, but his voice was loud enough for her to hear.

A small smile graced her face, but it wasn't warm or comforting. "I see you understand."

The next morning, Shin Danmi was waiting patiently for Seokmin in their cramped living room. She was twenty-one and already the envy of their neighborhood. She had a small frame but held herself with the confidence and elegance of a mature woman, wise beyond her years. She had long, silky black hair that framed her round face with delicate features nicely. If anyone was fit to marry a prince, it was Shin Danmi. However, Seokmin knew his mother felt the opposite. She must have felt sure his cousin wouldn't be marrying the prince, otherwise, she wouldn't have made the plan.

Seokmin entered the room, and Danmi stood from their sickly brown sofa. Her dress fell around her legs, and he took in her appearance. The gown she wore was emerald green and swept the floor. It highlighted her deep brown eyes and made her dark hair shine even brighter than usual. She was the very vision of a princess, and Seokmin was starting to doubt his mother's confidence. However, one glance at her told him that she knew something more. He had to believe her. Not because he trusted her, but because he had no other choice.

"There you are, Seokmin." His mother said as she stood.

She crossed the room in a single step and fixed the collar of his borrowed suit. Her eyes focused on the fabric, and he found himself staring at her graying hair.

"I was just telling Danmi how gorgeous she looked. I'm sure the prince will be under her spell." She continued.

A blush flushed Danmi's pale cheeks. "Auntie, you flatter me."

Seokmin held back his sarcastic remarks. If only Danmi knew the truth. Instead, he smiled at his cousin.

"You do look beautiful." He told her.

The difference was that he meant it. His sisters were each pretty in their own right, but Seokmin wouldn't have minded if Danmi married the prince. She was kind and beautiful. It made sense. He only wondered why his mother felt different.

"Thank you," Danmi replied. "You look quite handsome yourself."

She was being kind, Seokmin was sure of that. He borrowed the suit from his father and was sure it hadn't seen the light of day for over twenty years. It smelled of mothballs and dust. The rough fabric scratched his arms, and the shade of gray was awful against his skin tone. It didn't matter. He wasn't the one meeting the prince. He didn't have to look breathtaking.

"Enough flattery." His mother said suddenly. "You two better get going. You'll be late."

"Right."

Seokmin extended his arm to his cousin, and she took it easily and glided out the door with him. The sun was high in the sky, and the temperature was cooler than usual for an August day. It had rained more that year than it ever had, and it left a misty, cool breeze in its wake. It made for a pleasant walk to the palace, even if it was miles from their neighborhood. It was at such times that Seokmin wished his family had invested in some kind of car or that Ardmendia would provide better public transportation for the middle to lower class. He pitied Danmi walking in nice heels, and he wished he had something to offer her. Regardless, she didn't seem to be in any kind of pain. In fact, she seemed to float the entire way. The smile had never left her face, and she was chatting animatedly about the palace and the prince.

"Do you think the prince is handsome?" She asked.

His sisters constantly asked him the same questions, and he gave his cousin the same answer he gave them.

"Maybe. I don't know."

The truth was, he didn't care. He couldn't worry about a cowardly prince who couldn't be bothered to show his face. His only worry was how he was going to help keep his family alive.

"I think he is," Danmi replied almost dreamily. "The queen was beautiful, and the king had a handsome, rugged look about him. Surely that must account for something."

"Possibly."

They passed the marketplace where Seokmin worked. He felt guilty as he watched the owner doing his job on top of his own. He hated skipping work and making the older man work harder, but he knew his mother's wrath was worse than any other fate. He forced himself to turn away and continue walking on. Letting Danmi's ramblings lead.

The sun was still high when they arrived at the palace gates. A duo of guards stood before them, clad in black and gold uniforms. They were both tall and intimidating. While Seokmin had a larger frame than most men in their neighborhood, he was no match for the guards. He felt himself shrink before them. They exuded a power he couldn't comprehend.

"State your business." The one on the left demanded.

His voice was deep and booming while his expression remained cold and emotionless. It was as if he weren't alive, but merely an animated statue. A peek at what lay before them within the palace. Danmi reached into her small purse and handed the guard the royal notice that had been sent out by the masses. The guard glanced at it and turned his attention to Seokmin.

"And you?"

"I am her escort." He managed to get out.

His voice wasn't as strong as he wanted it to sound, but it didn't shake either. It was a small win. The guards stepped aside and let them pass through the now-open gates. Seokmin swallowed the lump in his throat and focused on getting Danmi inside. He had nothing to be scared of. He was there to look around and see what was happening. Nothing would happen to him, but that didn't stop his heart from pounding or his mind from wandering.

"Welcome." A man greeted them.

He was around the same height as Seokmin, but held himself well, with a graceful elegance. His frame was slender, and he had pretty and delicate features that almost seemed unusual for a man, but his expression was as stoic as the guards outside. He had the air of someone important, perhaps he was close to the prince.

"If I may lead the lady to the waiting room." He offered his arm, and Danmi graciously took it, giving a small wave back to her cousin.

Seokmin stood in place awkwardly, wondering what he was to do. He knew he needed to investigate, but he found he couldn't move. He was frozen in fear and was in awe of the grand architecture before him. The walls were like one large art piece, trimmed in gold and ivory. He was so lost in the sight that a sharp sound was the only thing to break him out of his trance. He later realized the sound to be a scream. He turned behind him and the door his cousin had left from was pushed open, and Danmi came running to him in a panic.

"Seokmin! We have to leave, immediately!" She urged.

"Why?"

He grabbed her arms to steady her, but pulled away when he felt something hot and sticky. He looked down and saw his hands covered in dark blood, Danmi's blood. He looked back at his cousin and saw the blood pouring from her throat and down her arms. It stained her emerald dress and matted the ends of her hair. It was as if an angel had crawled out of hell. She started to gag as the blood continued to pool out of her. Seokmin could only watch helplessly as his cousin bled out on the white parquet floor. He shouted for help, but nobody appeared. He tried to place pressure on the wound, but it was no use. Danmi was gone. His hands and clothes were stained with crimson blood, but he didn't take any notice of that now. He knew he needed to leave, to run, but he couldn't leave Danmi there, not like that. He opted to carry her back home and try to explain what happened, even if he wasn't sure himself. Just as he was about to lift her, a voice came from the other side of the door.

"His Majesty requests your audience."

Chapter Text

Seokmin cautiously stood from his crouched position. His brain was screaming for him to run away. Leave with his life and never tell a soul of what happened. He knew his time was limited, but he found he couldn't move. Every muscle in his body seemed to freeze, holding him in place. The man who had greeted them before stood impatiently.

"His Majesty doesn't like to be kept waiting." He warned. "Please, follow me."

One foot in front of the other, Seokmin moved forward. His feet felt like lead, and his legs, jelly. His heartbeat was so loud in his ears that he swore it could be heard throughout the entire palace. He focused on his breathing and stayed a few paces behind the man. He led Seokmin to a dark room, lit only by two candles sitting on the dining table that stretched from one end of the room to the other. At the very head of the table sat the silhouette of a man, the prince. Despite barely being able to see his hand in front of his face, he took note that the prince sat tall and unmoving. It was as if Seokmin was being presented with an elegant art piece. The man gestured to a chair at the other end of the table, and Seokmin sat, awaiting his fate. The room cleared quickly, servants and assistants exiting from different doors in an orderly fashion. When the final door shut firmly, Seokmin realized just how quiet it was, and his heart started to race once more.

"Don't be afraid." The prince said from the other end.

Despite being across the room from one another, Seokmin could hear him clearly. His voice was soft, smooth, and almost a whisper, but Seokmin still heard every single syllable without strain.

"I won't hurt you." He reassured Seokmin when he didn't receive a reply.

"Did you tell my cousin the same thing?" Seokmin challenged.

He knew he was out of order and was taking a large risk speaking to the prince in such a way, but grief and anger were coursing their way through his body and overtaking him. If they were to be his final words, he wanted them to count for something. The prince was silent for a brief moment, most likely processing Seokmin's harsh tone and bold words. It was clear no one had spoken to him in such a way before. It seemed to amuse him, excite him.

"It is rather unfortunate what happened to your cousin. She was a beautiful girl. It is always a shame when the blood of an innocent must be spilled."

Seokmin noted his odd phrasing but didn't comment on it. He didn't dare.

"What about her family? Her parents? They will be enraged when she doesn't return home."

He couldn't even imagine what his aunt's reaction would be when she received the news. She had always been a frail woman, sick with an illness every other month. Would it send her to an early grave? He couldn't imagine the grief his family was about to experience.

"They won't." The prince argued.

He sounded sure as if they were his family. 

"Besides, they will be properly compensated."

Seokmin scoffed. He couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"Compensated? Their daughter is dead. How the hell do you compensate for something like that? No amount of money will return their daughter."

A price tag couldn't be put on his cousin's life, but the prince was doing it anyway. It unnerved him as much as it angered him. Even in the dark, he could see the prince's dark grin.

"Perhaps not, but it would make their lives easier, would it not? After all, they still live on."

It was deluded logic, flawed, and one-sided. Seokmin knew that, but he couldn't find the words for a counterargument. He would go to say something, anything, in reply, but the words would stick in his throat and vanish. He was silent against his will, and he resorted to staring into the eyes that glowed red in the candlelight. From the silence came a clattering. Two servants swiftly entered the dining room. One carried a tray with a plate of food while the other carried a tray with one lonely wine glass. The glass was served to the prince, who sipped from it slowly and elegantly. The plate was served to Seokmin, who stared at it with his hands at his side. It was grander than anything he had ever known. It was more food than he could dream about. Native Ardmendian dishes filled it along with Western flavors. The scent alone excited his senses and overwhelmed him, but he still didn't touch it. He didn't dare to. No matter how his empty stomach roared, he wouldn't touch it. He may have been starving, desperate, and poor, but he still had his pride. It was something money couldn't buy.

"You're starving." The prince stated.

It wasn't a question. It was a statement, an observation. Yet, Seokmin did not give in.

"I have the finest chefs this island can offer. I assure you, you will be satisfied." He continued.

As if to prove his point, he took a long sip from his glass, emptying it. Seokmin eyed him.

"Why don't you have a plate then?" He questioned.

The prince shrugged, elegantly wiping the corners of his mouth with his napkin. "Regrettably, I cannot eat with you as I am full from a previous snack I consumed." He grinned to himself as if he had just told an inside joke.

Seokmin still didn't move, and the prince spoke once more.

"No harm will come to you." He reassured him. "To poison you would be a waste."

The words that were meant to reassure him only served to frighten him more. Something was off about the prince. There had to be. Otherwise, why was he faceless and nameless to the entire kingdom? Why did he sit by candlelight in the high afternoon? What had he been doing to the girls? What was he going to do to Seokmin? Not wanting to find out, he began to pick at his food, ignoring the blood still staining his hands and clothes. There wasn't anything he could do. He took tiny bites just to please the prince. However, it proved to be a terrible idea as the flavors enticed him and his stomach cried for more before a bite could make it all the way down. He fought the ache and forced himself to look back at the red eyes that were already staring at him.

"You're not looking for a spouse, are you?' He asked, finally feeling bold.

He hadn't once used honorific speech. He had never once referred to the prince by his proper title, and the prince hadn't cared.

"All those girls who came here were sent back in an awful state. You want something else, don't you?" He pushed on.

Under the red eyes, he could see the petrifying grin forming. "I love when they're clever."

The spine-chilling grin remained as he continued. "I would not mind a spouse. The palace is large, and it does get quite lonely, but I was looking for something specific when I called for them." He admitted.

"Did you find it?"

"I have."

"What were you looking for?"

"You wouldn't even begin to understand."

Seokmin deflated. He should have known better. Of course, he wouldn't receive a straightforward answer. It was foolish to think otherwise.

"I suppose not." He muttered. "I wouldn't even begin to understand you."

"I understand you, though." The prince replied, almost startling Seokmin. "It must be exhausting."

Seokmin, caught off guard, struggled to reply. "What must be?"

"Your life. You play father, mother, and brother, but rarely the son. You work endlessly for a measly amount, and your family still discards you to the side. Your father treats you as a spare. Your mother treats you as a henchman, the man to carry out all of her outlandish plans. Your sisters rely on you, but never see you. You're lonely."

Seokmin stared deeply into the red eyes in disbelief. What kind of game was the prince playing? Had he been watched? Followed?

"What the hell? Are you reading my mind?"

The thought terrified him. The idea of his most private thoughts being invaded by someone so powerful sent chills down his spine. The familiar urge to run and escape rushed back to him, but he couldn't move. He was held under the state of red eyes. His limbs felt like lead. He was stuck in place. The prince let out a chuckle as if Seokmin were a small child who suggested something so simple and stupid.

"Your heart." He clarified. "You leave it open because it's empty. It's crying out, and I hear it. I feel its desperation, its longing. I am willing to answer it."

Seokmin was shell-shocked. His mind was starting to feel hazy as his ears were rushing with blood. His sight was blurred, but he held strong. He had to fight. For himself, for Danmi.

"What are you talking about?" He asked weakly.

"My heart is empty too. Perhaps we can fill one another's hearts, answer each other."

He leaned forward, allowing Seokmin to see the handsome face lit by the candlelight. The red eyes now seemed brown as the pale face came into focus. He smiled a genuine smile, unlike the spine-chilling grin from earlier. It provided Seokmin with warmth and strength, like the sun after a cold winter's night. His limbs felt light, and his vision cleared. He felt as if he had awoken from a deep slumber.

"Stay here with me. Keep me company." The prince begged. "Marry me."

Seokmin was frozen at the prince's offer and plea. It continued to ring throughout his mind as if it were a scratched record, forced into an eternal loop. He could not only hear the prince's desperation, but he could feel it. It was an ache in his chest, expanding to his lungs, squeezing them before releasing them into a bottomless pit. All while the words continued their echoes.

"Stay here with me. Keep me company. Marry me."

Marry him? He didn't even know him. Not to mention, his cousin had died right in front of him minutes ago, maybe an hour. Time was starting to feel tricky in the palace of hell. How could a death lead to a marriage proposal? It had to be some sort of sick game. He wanted to leave, pack up his family, and run as far as he could from the damned island. The prince took notice of Seokmin's confusion and inner turmoil. He seemed pleased with himself.

"Take your time. Think it over. It is an important decision." He advised.

Seokmin tried to not let his surprise show. "You're letting me go?"

The grin he dreaded returned, and all warmth and hope vanished from Seokmin's body. He should have known better.

"Not quite." Over his shoulder, he called out. "Jisoo, please enter."

Seconds later, the same man who had led Danmi to her doom and later Seokmin to his, appeared before them. He bowed lowly to the prince and awaited his instructions.

"Our guest will be staying overnight. Please see him to a room and make sure he's comfortable." The prince ordered.

Jisoo bowed again and moved to Seokmin, who was still processing the shock of the prince's words on top of his growing grief. He couldn't believe what was happening. He looked back up at the prince. He tried to remain calm. He didn't want to show his fear, but he knew it was written all over his face. The prince was at every advantage.

"Will I ever get to go home?" His voice sounded small and pitiful, and he cursed himself. He was completely at the prince's mercy.

"If that is what you decide, but it will come at a price."

Seokmin didn't hesitate. "I want to go home, no matter the cost."

The prince chuckled, obviously finding his behavior amusing. "Perhaps you should listen to your options in their entirety." He started. "If you go home, you'll be like those girls who returned before you. You have seen too much and you know too much. You will be of no use to your mother, father, or sisters. You will be a shell of a person. Maybe your mind would return and you could live out your days in the same mediocre way you have been, and nothing would change."

"And if I stay?"

"If you stay, you will come to know life in a new, better way. You will never want for anything, and neither will your family. I will send them more than enough money."

The prince leaned forward, placing his chin stop his folded hands. "The question you must ask yourself is, would they be better off with their son or money? Which one would they choose?"

Seokmin felt the uncomfortable shift in the air. He knew the answer, and from the prince's expression, even in the dark, he knew too. Still, pride was something Lee Seokmin had in abundance. He would rather draw everything out for as long as he could, find a third option, a fourth. He would not give in. For now, he would play the prince's game until he could find a way to win it. He allowed Jisoo to lead him around the palace. He kept his eyes low, afraid of being drawn in and mesmerized by its beauty once more. He had to keep his guard up. He was going to survive the hellish nightmare.

"Your room is here," Jisoo announced as they came to a stop.

His voice snapped Seokmin out of his thoughts, and without thinking, he looked up and made eye contact with him. He was met with the same red eyes he saw in the dining room. The ones he thought were lit red by candlelight.

"You may go inside." Jisoo continued, sounding a bit annoyed.

"Right," Seokmin said as he came back to his senses.

He made a mental note not to make contact with any more red eyes.

"Thank you." He added for good measure. He didn't want to be killed for bad manners.

"You may explore the palace if the room becomes too small."

Seokmin was intrigued. They were giving him freedom. What would stop him from walking out the door?

"The palace is heavily guarded around the clock. It would be well advised if you did not try leaving." Jisoo stated, almost smugly.

Seokmin gulped, trying not to think about how Jisoo knew what he was thinking.

"What about the prince's room? Aren't you afraid of me finding it and disturbing him?"

At his question, Jisoo laughed, actually laughed. "You could search this palace for days. You would never find it." He replied.

Seokmin felt small and defeated. It seemed both Jisoo and the prince had strange abilities and always had the upper hand. It was as if they could see Seokmin's deepest thoughts and feelings. He felt violated by it, but most of all, he was fearful of it. The image of Danmi's bloody body flashed through his mind, and he willed it away. He couldn't be scared. He didn't have time to be. He had to find a way out. He needed a plan to think one step ahead of the prince.

"You will meet with His Majesty again tomorrow," Jisoo informed. "Good night."

He didn't wait for a reply as he walked away, leaving Seokmin alone in the long and empty hallway. Seokmin was still dazed. Was it night already? It was early afternoon when he and Danmi arrived. How many hours had passed while he and the prince met? Seokmin shook his head as he slipped inside the room. It didn't matter. He had other, more important things to be concerned with. He entered the room and flipped on the light, illuminating the room in a warm, golden glow. He was speechless as he took it all in. It was larger than his entire house. Perhaps he was exaggerating, but he had never seen a bedroom so grand. It could fit his entire family comfortably. The walls were matte black, trimmed with golden borders. The floor was the same as it was throughout the rest of the palace, white parquet. He had to quickly look back up so he didn't think of Danmi and her blood staining the white beneath her.

He moved toward the center where the bed was placed. It was just as grand as the rest of the room and far more luxurious than Seokmin had ever experienced. Back home, his bed consisted of an old mattress stuffed with extra blankets for padding. He had never seen anything so gorgeous and grand. He grazed his hand along the silk fabric of the sheets. They were cool and soft to the touch. He knew that if he were to lie down right then, he wouldn't be able to get up until the sun rose again, and even then, he wasn't so sure. He snapped his hand back as if it had caught fire. He couldn't relish in the comfort. He couldn't give in. He had to find a way out. Luxury meant nothing if he was a prisoner. A large window by the bed caught his attention. It was covered with a black velvet curtain that he pulled back with intensity and urgency. He was still on the first floor. If he could get the window open, perhaps he could leave through there and run into the night. He glanced at the outside view and was delighted to see that the room overlooked a garden. It was perfect. His landing wouldn't make a sound, he could disappear among the flowers and trees. The only problem was that the window wouldn't budge.

"Fuck." Seokmin muttered.

After a few more desperate tugs, he eventually gave up and fell to the floor in defeat. He was trapped there. The large room was starting to feel smaller, and in an instant, he was on his feet and running to the door. Jisoo had said he could explore, and that was exactly what he was going to do. Maybe he could find another way out. The hall was just as empty as it was before, and Seokmin was thankful for it. He forced himself to keep a calm gait about himself as he moved through the long hallway. He couldn't appear panicked. He couldn't let them know they had gotten to him. He turned corners without paying much attention to his surroundings, and after walking for ten minutes, he had no idea where he was or how to get back. The palace seemed to have him under a spell, and he stopped in place so he could take a deep breath. 

He admired the paintings hanging in the hall, but he stilled when he noticed an odd pattern among them. All of the portraits had the same face in them, the prince's. Sometimes, the king and queen of the time would be with him, and then there were the ones of just him. Seokmin hadn't paid too much attention in history class, but he knew the types of traditional Ardmendian clothing of the different centuries. He could recognize that much. He came across the last painting, the oldest. It was painted on animal skin with natural berries. The same face was there once more, but he was younger, a child of twelve or thirteen. It was the prince in every single one of them. The same one who had sat across from Seokmin. The same prince who had proposed to him.

"What are you?" He asked the painting. "Why do you want me?"

A rustling in the distance startled him, and he jumped back from the painting. From his position in the hall, he could see a group of men gathering in another room. They were tall and conversing in hushed whispers. Seokmin strained to hear them. He took the risk of moving closer.

"Sir, we have a new group incoming." One man announced.

"Well done. You can place them downstairs. Your payment will be waiting for you at the gate."

The man bowed, and Seokmin was able to catch a full glimpse of the person he was talking to. It was Jisoo. He knew he should look away in case he got caught, but it was like a car accident. He couldn't look away. He had to know what was going to happen. A minute later, a group of people, each handcuffed, was led past Jisoo and down a set of stairs. Jisoo stopped the last one. He was a middle-aged man with scruffy facial hair and greasy, unkempt hair. Jisoo seemed to ignore his state as he cupped the man's cheek delicately.

"I've heard about you. You're too precious to waste." He said sensually.

Faster than the human eye could see and faster than Seokmin could process, the sound of bones cracking sounded throughout, and the man fell to the floor, eyes still wide open. Jisoo knelt and patted the man's shoulder.

"Don't worry, it's just your spine. You won't die yet. That's His Majesty's job."

Two men carried the motionless man into another room, and Seokmin took his chance to run back to his room. He wasn't sure how he found it in his panic and confusion, but he managed. He leaned against the closed and locked door as his heartbeat sounded in his ears once more. Was that going to happen to him? Was that why they were keeping him? He eyed the window once more. He had to find a way to escape. He had to survive. 

Chapter Text

Seokmin didn't remember falling asleep. In fact, he remembered he had actively tried to stay awake. He barricaded the door with the antique dresser and snapped the curtain shut. For good measure, he turned off the light in fear of someone seeing the warm glow underneath the door. He sat on the floor in front of the bed and tried to make himself as small as possible. He concluded that the complete darkness of the room, paired with exhausting fear, must have made him pass out. When he opened his eyes, he could see the sunshine trying to peek its way through the gaps of the curtain. As if in a trance, he crossed the room and pulled back the curtain. He let the early morning sunshine caress his face, and despite his situation, he smiled. He caught himself seconds later and snapped the curtain shut once more. There was absolutely nothing to smile about. He was trapped in a nightmare, and this sunrise might be his last.

"Get it together, you have to get out of here." He muttered to himself.

His stomach growled, the sound echoing off the walls. Now that he was awake and coming to his senses, he was starting to realize just how hungry he was. He almost regretted not eating more of the plate offered to him the night before. Maybe by now, he would have had the strength to escape. He looked down to search for something to distract his mind from his hunger, and he was startled by the state of his clothes. His father's suit was covered in Danmi's dry blood. It covered the sleeves from his wrist to his forearms. The largest stains were on his knees, where he had knelt in front of her, watching in desperation and helplessness as the life drained out of her. The blood left ugly, dark patches against the dust-gray color of the suit. Seokmin was sure that even with harsh scrubbing, the suit would never come clean. He would have to burn it.

He scanned the room, and his eyes landed on the antique dresser he had shoved in front of the door. He wondered if there were clothes in it. Deciding there had to be something, he stood and approached the dresser. He needed out of the stained suit. He couldn't be constantly reminded of his impending doom and horrid fate. He needed to hold onto his hope and mask it as strength. It was the only way to survive. He slid out the top drawer. It contained socks, neatly folded. In the back were white ones, and in the front, black. Seokmin took a pair of black ones and continued building an outfit from the other drawers. By the end, he had a simple black outfit. It was all made of comfortable material, and it seemed close to his size, a fact he tried not to dwell too long on. He entered the bathroom connected to the room. It was as spacious as the room. It housed a long counter with a porcelain basin underneath a bronze faucet in the middle. A luxurious toilet, which Seokmin thought to be an oxymoron, sat against the far wall, and off to the side was the most gorgeous bathtub he had ever laid his eyes on. It was square and black coated, with gold etching around its perimeter. It took his breath away as he had never encountered so many luxurious items in his lifetime. It was overwhelming and made him dizzy, but he forced himself to focus.

He drew himself a bath as he peeled off the sticky, stained clothes that were starting to cling to him. He forced himself to stay alert and not relax in the warm bath. He focused on cleaning himself, making sure all of the blood was washed off his skin. He finished quicker than he would have liked, but he reminded himself that he was fighting for his survival against an unknown force. He dried off with a towel hanging on a copper rod across the room. He dressed quickly and threw his father's suit in the trash can. His parents could scold him later if he ever returned home.

When he returned to the bedroom, he moved the dresser back to the corner of the room where he had first found it. He had decided in the bath that he was going to explore again and take his chances. He wasn't sure what he was going to find, especially after last night, but he knew he had to make an effort if he had any kind of hope. He took a deep breath as he turned the knob. Like the night before, the halls were not only empty, they were silent. It was as if he were all alone in the large palace, but he knew that was far from the truth. Unlike before, he took calculated steps and put thought into each turn he took. He didn't want to find another scene like the one from before. His spine still tingled when he thought back on the last few seconds before Jisoo snapped that man's bones and paralyzed him. It was clear Jisoo and the prince were far from humans, but what exactly were they? Why did they want to keep him? Another shiver coursed through him at the thought of his bones being snapped without much effort. He had to escape. He had to.

On his last left turn, the scent of warm cooking hit him. He was near a kitchen, and his stomach growled once more at the mere thought of food. He was reluctant to stop but could feel himself growing lightheaded from the lack of food. He had to eat. Perhaps he could slip into the kitchen, grab something random, something simple, something that no one would miss. It would at least stop his stomach from growling and his head from spinning. Surely, it would be safe enough. He didn't take the time to admire the kitchen. He knew it was large and as breathtaking as the rest of the palace. He could acknowledge that much. Anything else would have been a waste of time. On top of the counter sat a loaf of freshly cooked bread. It smelled of home, and he nearly swooned at the scent alone. It was perfect. He could break off a piece to eat and go on his way. No one would have known he had been there. Just as he reached for it, a voice from behind spoke and nearly startled him out of his skin.

"Hello."

It was a woman's voice. That much he could recognize. She sounded warm and pleasant, despite catching someone stealing food. Seokmin turned around and was surprised to see a kind-looking elderly woman. She had to be close to seventy. Her silver hair was tied back in a braid, and she wore a gentle smile. It was something Seokmin had never seen from his mother but wished he had. It was inviting, warm, and full of life. His guard fell.

"I'm sorry. I thought no one would notice if I took a small piece. I realize how rude all this seems. I am so sorry." Seokmin babbled out.

The woman continued to smile. "If you want the bread, you may have it, but would you like something else? I could cook you a warm meal." She offered.

Seokmin quickly shook his head. "No, thank you, that's very kind, but I couldn't trouble you."

She laughed. It was light and airy, like a spring breeze after a long winter. "Dear, it is my job to cook, and it would be nice to cook real food for a change. Even nicer to cook it for someone who could enjoy it. Now, would you like a warm meal?"

Seokmin almost declined once more, but his stomach protested with a sharp twinge and a low growl. It was clear the bread alone wasn't going to satisfy it.

"I would." He answered almost shamefully.

Back home, his mother had done all the cooking. Sometimes, one of his sisters would pitch in, but the responsibility mostly fell to her alone. The food was always edible, but it was never made with enjoyment or from love. It was simply a set of motions to her, something she could most likely do in her sleep. The idea of someone making him a meal simply because they wanted to filled him with an unusual emotion, and he wasn't sure if he liked it.

"Great! Now, sit down here and I will have you a meal in no time." She ordered.

Seokmin sat on a nearby stool and watched silently as she moved around the kitchen. He felt as if he was under a spell just watching her. She moved with grace and efficiency. It was clear she had been doing it for a long time. Before long, he had a warm meal of sausage and soup in front of him. She even added the piece of bread he had taken from the loaf.

"Enjoy, I hope we see each other again." She said as she left the kitchen.

Seokmin waited until he heard her footsteps disappear before he ate. He took a careful sip of the soup, which he found to his delight to be pork bone soup, his favorite. Before long, he had finished the soup, sausage, and bread. His stomach calmed, and his head cleared. He felt much better and was ready to continue his self-tour of the palace. He made sure to keep track of his turns this time so he could easily make his way back to his room if needed.

He used the walk to clear his head and sort through his options. He could go home, but he would have no memory, no answers about what happened to Danmi or the other girls. He would have to face his aunt and uncle without answers or a way to help. Worst of all, he would have to face his mother and admit that he had failed her. As the prince said, he would be a shell of a person, he would be of no use to his family. What would they do to him? Would they keep him locked in his room, a dirty secret to keep from their friends and neighbors? Would they outcast him and treat him as dead? What would happen if he stayed? What if he married the prince? Strange things were happening in the palace, and he was sure neither the prince nor his right-hand man were human. Would they lure him into a false sense of security only to kill him, or would he become like them, some mysterious creature who killed others? It didn't sound favorable, but he realized if he stayed, he would have more time to plan his escape. He could figure out their dark secrets and run away with them. He could run home, memory intact, and warn his family and neighbors. Hope returned to him. It could work.

A familiar voice sounded from down the hall, and Seokmin's body tensed. It was Jisoo. He was giving orders again. He wasn't going to stick around another time to see what was going to happen. Willing his feet to move, he sprinted back to his room, trying hard to remember all the turns to take. He rounded the last corner and sighed in relief when he recognized it to be the correct hallway. He was going to sprint the last bit of the way when he collided with another person.

"Careful, wouldn't want you to hurt yourself."

Seokmin's blood ran cold. It was the prince. He swallowed his fear and forced himself to stand tall. He had to be brave now. If any of it was to work, he couldn't show his fear, his intent. He had to play his part.

"I have come to a decision." He announced. "I will marry you."

The prince smiled. "I knew you would see it my way."

Seokmin had never witnessed such organized chaos. A lot went into planning a royal wedding, even more so if said wedding was being rushed. He hadn't seen the prince in days. Part of him was thankful for that fact, but he couldn't help but wonder if he would see him before the wedding at all. He got his answer a couple of days later when a familiar face appeared at his door. Jisoo announced that the prince requested his audience, and Seokmin found himself jumping up to follow him. He chided himself for it later, chalking it up to being isolated for so many days. The prince was elegant as ever, sitting on his black velvet throne. His visuals were different in the throne room lighting. By candlelight, Seokmin could only make out certain features. He had seen him in the hallways but never actually looked at him. Now, he could take everything in. His dark hair was long, stopping just at his shoulders. It was curled and lightly tousled, decorated by his black and gold crown. His face was pale, shockingly so, as if he had never known the sun his entire life. His eyes, which Seokmin had previously believed to be red, were now closer to black. They resembled an abyss that he could lose himself in if he allowed himself to. His lips were full and stark red, contrasting with his pale skin. He was breathtaking. Seokmin was almost in a trance just from looking at him until the prince's soft velvety voice sent him hurling back to Earth.

"Thank you, Jisoo, you may leave."

Jisoo bowed and exited the throne room, the large door shutting firmly behind him. The two stared at each other in silence, taking one another in. The faint sound of his own heartbeat sounded in Seokmin's ears, and he had to will himself to stay calm. He needed to be one step ahead of the prince at all times. He couldn't let his guard down. He took a deep breath and awaited the prince's words.

"Are you comfortable?" The prince asked.

Was he comfortable in his prison? He was as comfortable as a bird in a cage. His wings ached to stretch and fly, but he knew the cage was still a haven, a place to keep himself until something was decided upon regarding his fate. He was about to marry a stranger with oddities and intentions unknown and most likely dangerous. How was he to be comfortable? Regardless, he knew he had to hold his tongue, no matter how sick it made him.

"Yes, Your Majesty, I am quite comfortable."

The prince seemed pleased. "Wonderful. I would hate to think of my fiance being uncomfortable in his new home."

Seokmin bowed. "Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty."

The prince suddenly frowned. Seokmin froze. Had he done something wrong? The prince stood from his throne, and he held his breath. The royal moved closer, almost inches away from him. He could feel the warmth of his body. He could feel his breath as he exhaled. Seokmin's senses seemed to shut down. He couldn't move or speak. He was defenseless.

"This won't do." The prince whispered.

"What won't, Your Majesty?" Seokmin breathed out, trying to get air back into his lungs.

"That. We are to be wed. You shouldn't be calling me Your Majesty."

Seokmin's body wanted to gasp in an attempt to reach the air he was lacking. He was starting to feel lightheaded and dizzy, but he managed to remain steady. He could do it. He could get through it. He had to.

"It is your proper title, how else shall I refer to you?"

Words were starting to escape him. They were floating aimlessly through his mind with no destination. The prince's hand moved to his cheek, caressing it. Seokmin's entire system stilled. Every nerve in his body was alive and on fire, but still under the prince's ice-like touch. His system tried to regulate itself, but it couldn't decide if it was burning or freezing. It was sending him into overdrive. The prince leaned down, his lips brushing against Seokmin's ear, eliciting a shiver from him.

"Call me Jeonghan. From this point on, I will simply be Jeonghan, Seokmin's husband."

Something was lit within Seokmin's brain, restarting it, and bringing him back to life. Another shiver coursed through him from sheer eeriness. He had never told the prince his name. Jeonghan looked back at him with a smirk, seemingly quite pleased with himself.

"How does that sound?"

Seokmin could only bring himself to nod. It was all he could manage. The prince finally stepped away from him, and the air rushed back into his lungs, nearly choking him from the harsh severity of its return. Jeonghan reclaimed his spot on his throne while Seokmin struggled to stand. 

"Enter." Jeonghan suddenly ordered.

Seokmin turned to see a tall male walk through the door. He was around the same age but held an air of maturity that made him intimidating, almost more than the prince. His face was sharp and narrow. His eyes were dark and focused, but his expression remained stoic. It was clear he was a well-trained man due to the sheer discipline he showcased. He bowed to the prince.

"Your Majesty."

"Seokmin, this is Jeon Wonwoo of the Royal Ministry of Defense. In the meantime, he will be your attendant." Jeonghan announced.

"Attendant?" Seokmin questioned.

"He will look after your every need when I am unavailable." The prince clarified. "Right now, you must follow him to prepare for the wedding. It will commence in an hour."

Seokmin's head was spinning. An hour? His entire life was about to change in just an hour. How was he to process that? Still, he didn't argue or put up a fight. He simply followed Wonwoo out of the throne room and through the palace. He was led to a room he had yet to see. It was full of various garments and accessories.

"Please sit." Wonwoo gently ordered as he gestured to one of the empty chairs.

Seokmin sat and tried to make himself as still as possible. He promised himself he wouldn't fight it. He would go along with everything until he could gain the upper hand. For now, he was their pawn, putty to mold in their hands and shape however they wanted.

"Do you know what is expected of you?" Wonwoo asked.

Seokmin shook his head. He had only been to a handful of weddings in his life, and he knew they were nothing compared to a traditional royal Ardmendian wedding. He had no idea what one looked like. The king and queen had been wed twelve years before he was ever born. He was clueless and unprepared. 

"I will dress you in the appropriate attire. When you hear the drums sound over the flutes, that will be your cue. You will walk in long strides, reaching the altar in five exact steps. You will not look at the prince but straight ahead at the priest. From there, he will instruct you on what to do."

It felt like a lot to take in and remember, but he knew he could do it. He was thankful to have someone like Wonwoo to help him. He would have been so lost without him. He would have failed before he ever reached the altar. It was one act of mercy the prince had shown him. Wonwoo worked quickly and quietly, dressing Seokmin in a royal blue Ardmendian Hanbok. His hair was combed down and set above his eyebrows. As Wonwoo put the final touches on Seokmin's attire, he leaned close.

"It is a brave thing, what you are doing." He said softly.

"Brave?" Seokmin questioned.

He hadn't thought of it as brave as much as necessary for his survival.

"Not many would give their lives for this." Wonwoo continued.

Seokmin swallowed hard as he took in his wording. Giving up his life? What exactly was he doing? Before he had time to try and decipher and process, he heard the beats of drums sounding over flutes. It was his cue. He took one last look at his attendant, and to his surprise, he smiled.

"Good luck."

Seokmin tried to smile back before focusing on making it to the altar. He tried to remind himself why he was doing it as he took his five long strides to the altar.

One stride. He couldn't let Danmi's death be in vain.

Two strides. He had to leave the palace with answers.

Three strides. He had to warn the others.

Four strides. He had to make his mother proud of him for once.

Five. He had to survive.

He reached the altar and kept his eyes trained on the priest as was advised. The ceremony began after the tolling of a bell.

"I will begin by blessing these two bowls of water." The priest announced.

He said an old Ardmendian prayer and lifted the bowls to Seokmin and the prince.

"Drink to cleanse your spirits. Allow the evil to depart."

Both drank from the bowls. Seokmin welcomed it as it soothed his dry throat. The bowls were placed back on the altar, and only then were they allowed to face one another. Jeonghan was in a matching blue Hanbok. His crown was absent from his head. His dark curls framed his face and gave him an ethereal look. Seokmin was in a trance once more. Another prayer was spoken before the traditional vows were read. The priest raised a golden bowl above his head. It was full of water but did not spill.

"To join your souls, both must drink half."

He handed the bowl to the prince first, who drank from it without breaking eye contact with Seokmin. The bowl was handed over, and Seokmin focused on finishing it without choking. When the bowl was returned, the priest instructed them to turn and face the other way. A black and gold crown, larger than the one Seokmin had seen the prince wear in the throne room, was placed on Jeonghan's head.

"Introducing, for the first time, Yoon Jeonghan, the King of Ardmendia."

A black crown, slightly smaller than Jeonghan's, was placed on Seokmin's head."

"And Yoon Seokmin, the King Consort of Ardmendia."

It was official. The fight for survival had begun.

Chapter Text

Wonwoo was waiting for him when he returned to his room. The attendant's face remained stoic, but his eyes conveyed a warm and kind expression. He stood and helped Seokmin out of his ceremonial wedding hanbok and gave him a new one, a satin red hanbok so dark it almost resembled the color of blood. He trembled merely looking at it once again being reminded of Danmi.

"It's a brave thing that you're doing," Wonwoo said, echoing his words from before.

This time, Seokmin turned, forcing the fabric loose from his attendant's hands. "What do you mean by that? What exactly am I to expect?" He demanded.

Wonwoo didn't answer for a long moment. He simply turned Seokmin back around and resumed dressing him. Only after the last button was in place did he finally answer him.

"You do understand where you are going tonight and what is expected of you, right?" He asked.

Seokmin nodded. He wasn't slow, nor was he a prude. He knew what came after a wedding and what was going to be expected of him regarding that matter. He was prepared and surprisingly fine with that, but he had a feeling something else was going to happen, and by the look in Wonwoo's eyes that he caught a glimpse of in the mirror, he knew he was right.

"Something else is going to happen, isn't it?' Seokmin asked, trying not to let the fear be heard in his voice.

The attendant nodded. "The final vow. Then it will be complete."

Seokmin wasn't exactly sure what the final vow meant, but he could tell it was something major and that his life was about to change once more. He glided his fingers along the material of the hanbok, busying his fingers so they didn't shake.

"Will it hurt?" He asked.

Wonwoo's expression betrayed a glint of emotion, but it was gone as quickly as it appeared. "I don't know." He admitted. "Maybe, but not for long. No matter what happens, I will be waiting for you when it's over. Perhaps we can discuss it."

Seokmin locked eyes with the attendant through the mirror. The man was his only friend in this god forsaken place. He had placed a lot of trust in a stranger, but he knew it was placed well. He could feel it. He could only hold on to him for as long as he was allowed to.

"Perhaps." He agreed.

A chime from a distant clock sounded throughout the palace, and Seokmin's body stilled in fear. Wonwoo placed firm but gentle hands on his shoulders.

"It will be okay. Just do as you're told. You were chosen for a reason." He reminded.

Seokmin numbly nodded and swallowed the growing lump in his throat. He shivered, feeling the cold silk of a blindfold being placed over his eyes. He began to panic.

"What are you doing?" He asked.

"You aren't allowed to see where His Majesty's chambers are just yet. I will have to lead you there." Wonwoo explained.

He grabbed Seokmin's trembling hand. "It will be alright." He reassured.

Seokmin focused on keeping his steps in time with Wonwoo's so he didn't trip. The walk seemed endless, but he kept his mind alert, trying to count the turns, but it felt endless, and he gave up. He heard four knocks exactly before being nudged into a room. The silk slid across his face, and his eyes struggled to adjust in the dark room. When he could finally see like he was supposed to, he saw Jeonghan's lithe figure sitting on the bed, waiting patiently.

"Sit beside me." He ordered softly. "We are married now. It shouldn't be awkward."

Regardless of his words, Seokmin felt very awkward as he crossed the room. He sat at the very end of the bed, keeping a respectful and appropriate distance between himself and the royal. Jeonghan looked displeased, but didn't say anything. Instead, he moved closer, sensing he needed to be the one to make the first move. A cold hand caressed Seokmin's heated cheek. His eyes searched Jeonghan's for any kind of answers he could get to the million questions swarming his mind, but he was met with none.

"Relax," Jeonghan whispered before placing his lips onto Seokmin's.

The kiss started out slow, testing and teasing. Seokmin braved to deepen it, and the two's tongues explored the new available areas with gentle curiosity that he hadn't anticipated. Just as he was adjusting to the new rhythm, he felt Jeonghan bite down on his bottom lip, hard. The coppery taste of blood filled his mouth. He wasn't too alarmed as the king moaned around his mouth, figuring it was something Jeonghan liked. It wasn't unpleasant, he noted, and continued to focus on the task at hand. The kisses were directed elsewhere as lips discovered one another's bodies in gentle tenderness that had Seokmin's head swirling and heart pounding wildly. The silky red hanboks were slowly discarded and thrown somewhere on the floor. Jeonghan pushed Seokmin so he was lying back against the soft mattress, hair hitting the silk pillows. The king hovered above him, observing and questioning.

"Is this okay?" Jeonghan asked, voice soft with curiosity and concern. He seemed different from the person Seokmin had first met in the dining room. The person with red eyes that sat across from him was no longer in sight. Instead, he was replaced with a gentle and beautiful creature. One that Seokmin found himself admiring. One that Seokmin found himself falling for.

"Yes." He breathed out.

It surprised and scared him how much he wanted this. How much he wanted Jeonghan in every sense. Just hours earlier, he was planning his escape while cursing the king, but now he wanted nothing more than to be here wrapped with him, with the warmth. He didn't want to return to the cold emptiness he had been forced to live with.

Jeonghan searched his eyes for a second, as if double-checking. When he saw nothing but the want and eagerness, he leaned forward, elbows resting on the mattress on either side of Seokmin's face.

"Relax, tonight is about indulging." He whispered before placing delicate kisses along Seokmin's exposed skin.

He was uncertain what exactly Jeonghan meant, but leaned down to meet him in another kiss when Jeonghan offered, regardless. Jeonghan took his hand that wasn't busy tangling in the younger's hair, down lower. Seokmin flinched at the bluntness of the action, but all was forgotten as Jeonghan's slim and cold fingers wrapped around his length. Seokmin pulled away from the kiss with a needy whine. As he reconnected their lips, he took Jeonghan's length in his hand and gave it a few pumps, making sure to cover every inch he could reach. Jeonghan moaned into his open mouth, filling Seokmin with unknown pride. Before either of them could get close, they stopped, changing positions ever so slightly. Jeonghan took one of the many pillows around them and stuck it under Seokmin's hips to raise them. He took Seokmin's arms and wrapped them around his shoulder.

"Doing okay, darling?" Jeonghan asked, checking in once again.

Seokmin was breathless but nodded, eager and nearly desperate. Jeonghan seemed to notice and gave him a small smirk, his long fingers trailing Seokmin's exposed entrance, slick with a substance unknown to Seokmin. He circled the pad of his finger there a few times, drawing out little whines and moans from the younger before finally pressing a finger inside. Seokmin, not used to the foreign feeling, clenched, and Jeonghan was quick to soothe. With his free hand, he pushed Seokmin's sweaty hair back.

"Shh, relax. It'll be okay. Breathe."

Seokmin took a few gasping breaths before he felt his body relax again, Jeonghan's finger still inside him. He slowly pushed it in and out. When Seokmin began to moan, Jeonghan added another finger, being met with less resistance. By the third, Seokmin was practically crying, and Jeonghan looked as if he wanted to eat him.

"Ready?"

Somehow, despite the haze he found himself in, Seokmin managed to nod. Jeonghan slowly lined his cock with Seokmin's entrance, pushing in with a sort of carefullness. Seokmin arched into it and met him halfway, soft moans filling the room. He felt dizzy as he began to thrust, letting the warmth fill him up. Jeonghan began slowly, unsure of what Seokmin wanted, but when the other's hips began to snap up to his, he sped up. Just as he was close to the edge, Jeonghan reached down and left a tender kiss on his neck before he felt a sting. The king stayed against his neck for a long time, sucking, while Seokmin focused on the warm feeling surrounding him as well as his oncoming high.

He came just as Jeonghan's mouth left his neck, and he nearly blacked out, but Jeonghan caught him, offering him his wrist. By some newfound instinct paired with insatiable thirst, he took the wrist to his mouth and sucked. Jeonghan slowly pulled out of him as he watched with eager and lust-filled eyes finishing himself off as Seokmin finished sucking. He patted Seokmin's sweaty hair fondly.

"The final vow. Now, we are one." He whispered sweetly to him.

They separated, and Seokmin blacked out against the mattress in a haze. When he came to, he was alone. Jeonghan was nowhere in sight, and his hanbok had returned to his body. He stood from the bed, dazed. He felt dizzy, but managed to make his way to the door. There, on the other side, was Wonwoo waiting for him as promised. He offered him his hand, and Seokmin gratefully took it. Wonwoo led him back to his own room without the blindfold. He found it odd, but realized he couldn't concentrate on where he was anyway.

Wonwoo led him to the en-suite bathroom and made a motion to undress Seokmin. He let him, too weak to do it himself. His limbs felt nonexistent, and his mind was still in a haze that wouldn't clear. He could barely feel the heat from the water as he sank into the tub. Wonwoo gently began washing him, paying extra attention to his neck where Jeonghan had just been.

"Would you like to talk about it?"

Seokmin's eyes drifted away from the gold trim of the wall. He had momentarily forgotten he wasn't alone in the room. He turned to his attendant, and it was like he was seeing him with new eyes for the first time. He looked different in a way that Seokmin couldn't place. Something had shifted. The haze began to clear from his brain, and he was finally able to process Wonwoo's question and give him an answer.

"I am not sure what 'it' was." He replied, throat hoarse from its dryness. Had it always been so dry? Why couldn't he swallow properly?

Wonwoo nodded in understanding as he scrubbed Seokmin's neck once more. Why was he spending so much time there? Was something wrong? Before he could ask, he heard Wonwoo speak once more.

"You will."

Seokmin wanted to ask him what he meant by that, but his ears began to ring as the haze continued to clear. He tried to focus, but was horrified to realize he couldn't hear the familiar pounding of his heartbeat or the rushing of blood in his ears. Once the ringing stopped, it was as if his entire body stilled. He looked at Wonwoo in horror. The cloth he was holding and had used to scrub Seokmin's neck was red. He met the attendant's eyes.

"What is happening to me?" He whispered.

Wonwoo looked at him with pity. "You are dying, at least, your body is."

Seokmin's eyes widened in horror. "How....why?" He was stumbling over himself to accurately describe the horror he was currently feeling. Nothing could come close.

"You will understand in time. For now, you need rest."

Numb and confused, Seokmin let Wonwoo help him out of the bath. He was dried and dressed in silk pajamas that reminded him of the king's gentle touch. He tried not to shiver at the thought. Wonwoo led him to the bed, and like a child, he was tucked in. The attendant patted him.

"Get some rest. I have heard the next few hours are the worst."

With that, Seokmin was left alone in the dark with a silent body and a million questions.

Chapter Text

Seokmin fell into a fitful slumber. He wasn't sure if he had actually slept or just lost consciousness for small increments of time. Wonwoo wasn't lying. The hours he lay in bed were the worst of Seokmin's life. His body was dying at an alarming rate. His organs shut down, and he broke out into a cold sweat as his body tried to accommodate to its new normal. He tossed and turned, feeling an ache deep inside that he feared would never be filled. He prayed it would be over within the next few minutes. Finally, after what felt like hours of agony, he blacked out.

When Seokmin came to once more, he could feel the difference. There was an endless gnawing in his stomach, something stronger than hunger. He was famished and thirsty. God, he had never felt so thirsty. He stumbled and reached for a glass of water that had been in the room for at least two days. He didn't care. He grabbed it with both hands and began to gulp it down like his life depended on it. He sighed in relief that his mouth and throat were no longer bone dry, but it quickly turned into panic when it threatened to come back up. He gagged and was about to make a dash for the bathroom when he felt a firm hand on his knee.

"Try this instead." A gentle, deep voice encouraged.

Too panicked by the situation and wanting quick relief, Seokmin snatched whatever was being handed to him and gulped it just as greedily as he had the water. It was warm and slid down his throat nicely, warming his chest and stomach. The urge to gag ceased, as well as the gnawing deep within his stomach. He felt brighter and stronger. He finally registered that Wonwoo was before him, watching him with concern and curiosity.

"Better?" He questioned.

Seokmin nodded. "What was it? It was sweet." He noted.

"Type A, freshly harvested, fed cherries before drainage," Wonwoo replied.

Seokmin's eyes drifted down to the glass he was still holding. Maroon droplets remained along the rim of the crystal glass. He expected his heart to pound at the terrifying thought that was building itself up in his mind, but he was met with silence. He looked back up at his attendant.

"Is this..." He trailed off, not even able to say the word.

Wonwoo was kind enough to do it for him. "Blood." He confirmed. "It is what you will live off now."

Seokmin glanced back down at the glass. Despite being horrified at the prospect of what he had just consumed and what it meant, he found his mouth watering as he remembered the warm taste of the liquid as it slid down his throat. The gnawing began to creep its way back into his stomach, and the air in the room shifted. He noticed Wonwoo now, his presence, more than he had before. Had the attendant always been so enchanting? His eyes found solace in the other's neck. It was long, and Seokmin could make out a particularly protruding vein. He felt drawn to it. He wanted to be close to it. He wanted to taste it, he wanted to-

"Your Majesty?" Wonwoo cut off his thoughts.

Seokmin broke through the haze with a couple of blinks. "Yes?" He asked meekly.

He wasn't used to being referred to by a proper title, and he wasn't sure he ever would be.

"Sir Jisoo is here," Wonwoo announced.

There, at the door, was the king's right-hand man. He looked kinder than he had before, but his eyes still had the cold glaze to them as before. His gaze darted back to Wonwoo. He was still different. There was something off. He forced the thought out of his mind, trying to pay attention to Jisoo's words.

"The king would like a word with you." He announced.

Seokmin felt the blood course through him, giving him newfound life. He rose from the bed easily and followed Jisoo out. He wasn't dreading seeing the king; in fact, the thought excited him. A strange warmth ran through him, pulling him forward, as if being led by an invisible rope. Deep down in his mind, in the part that desperately held onto reason and survival, was shouting at him, begging him to stop and turn back, plan his escape, but the new feeling was stronger, all encompassing, allowing him to follow Jisoo to the throne room willingly.

Jeonghan's head turned the moment the door opened, and his entire being seemed to light up at the sight of Seokmin trailing Jisoo. He elegantly crossed the room to the duo. He gave a nod to Jisoo.

"Thank you, you may go." He dismissed.

Jisoo bowed and left the two of them alone in the dim throne room. Jeonghan gently held onto Seokmin's arm. The touch felt shockingly warm against his newly cold skin. It made him shiver and tingle in a pleasant way. It burned comfortably, like being devoured by a fireplace in deep winter. He was guided to the thrones before them. Seokmin hesitantly sat while the king smiled at him.

"You belong on this throne, next to me," Jeonghan told him as he sat on his own throne.

When Seokmin didn't reply, Jeonghan frowned and stood once more. Once in front of Seokmin, he kneeled down, taking the other's hands into his own. Seokmin wanted to hold them tighter, memories of how gentle the king was with him the night before rushing through his mind. Instead, he decided to ask the question weighing most on his mind.

"What happened to me?" He asked, voice small and shaky in the grand room.

One of Jeonghan's hands left his in favor of caressing Seokmin's face. He all but leaned into it, wanting to be comforted through this never-ending nightmare.

"You've been given a new life, an eternal one, with me." Jeonghan replied sweetly.

"But I...I don't...I can't..." He couldn't even form the words, but Jeonghan seemed to understand.

"My love, what do you know of monsters of the blood?" He asked.

Seokmin couldn't help but tilt his head a little in confusion. "Monsters?"

"Vampires." Jeonghan clarified.

Vampires. The word echoed through Seokmin's mind, nearly making his sensitive ears ring. He knew his heart was no longer beating, but he swore he could feel it beating wildly in his chest as his breath, which was also non-existent, hitched.

"Is that what you are...what I am now?" He managed to choke out.

"Yes," Jeonghan answered easily. "My life was taken from me centuries ago, but it is through it that I was able to make you anew."

Seokmin let it wash over him, what it all meant. He was dead, in a sense. He was a monster, a vampire. He couldn't return home. His life was new, and it belonged to the king. He was lost within himself. He could only stare down at his lap.

"Why me?" He asked.

He couldn't understand it. Out of the thousands of young women of Ardmendia, why was it he, a poor man from a large family, who was chosen? What was it about him that the king liked? What did the king see that even his own family didn't? Jeonghan, seeming sad but endeared by the question, leaned forward and captured Seokmin in a chaste but firm kiss. The warmth continued to spread throughout Seokmin's body, and he resisted a shiver when Jeonghan placed a hand on his silent chest.

"Can't you feel it?" He whispered. "Our bond that runs so deep and warm?"

Seokmin could feel it. It was all he could feel, all he could process, and it scared him. It terrified him how he was coming to be fond of the king.

"But what am I to do?" He asked, sounding rather pitiful.

"Be by my side. No matter what." Jeoonghan answered, looking at him with love that he couldn't even begin to comprehend.

Before he could ask anything else, he was pulled from the throne and led to a door off to the corner.

"I heard Wonwoo gave you your first taste." He started.

Seokmin could only nod, the lingering sweetness of cherries dancing on his tongue.

"I know it wasn't enough, though." He continued. "You must be famished."

Seokmin couldn't deny it nor hide it. He was famished. The ache he had suffered through the night was returning with a vengeance. Jeonghan, with a knowing look, opened the door and led them inside.

"I have just the feast for you." He announced.

There, in the middle of the concrete floor, was the man Jisoo had practically snapped in half nights ago. Seokmin was simultaneously marveled and horrified at the fact that he was still alive. He appeared nearly dead, though, twitching only once every few minutes, letting out a groan here and there. Jeonghan, noticing his husband's hesitation, stood behind Seokmin to wrap his arms around his waist.

"Go ahead, Darling. He's for you. All for you." He reassured.

"But I...I couldn't...I...I..." He stumbled, not sure if he was capable of what Jeonghan was asking of him.

The king rested his chin on his shoulder. "You would be doing a good thing." He reassured. "This man is a prisoner, a disgusting criminal. He preyed on children and left them to rot on their families' doorsteps. Now tell me, is someone like that worth the salvation, the consideration you want to show him? Is it enough to let him rot in our dungeon for the rest of his measly mortal life?"

Jeonghan was playing jury, judge, and executioner. It should have worried Seokmin. It should have terrified him even further, but he was finding it harder to refuse. It suddenly made sense to him, and the ache deep within him wouldn't subside.

"Okay." He breathed out. "But how do I...?"

Jeonghan grinned as he let go of him. He kneeled in front of the body and encouraged Seokmin to do the same. As he took hold of the man's head, he gave a loving look to his husband.

"Watch carefully." He advised.

Seokmin's eyes tracked Jeonghan's movements as the king sank his sharp fangs into the man's neck. The man jolted and groaned, but didn't fight as Jeonghan sucked, his eyes never once leaving Seokmin's. He pulled away quickly as he elegantly wiped the corners of his mouth. He leaned over, kissing Seokmin deeply, giving him a taste of the warm blood. Seokmin kissed back eagerly, wanting to taste more, but Jeonghan pulled away and instead led him to the other side of the man's neck. Just as the king had done, Seokmin sank his new fangs into the man's neck. The man, already weak, put up even less of a fight than he had with Jeonghan. It was a strange sensation to become accustomed to. The leathery feeling of the man's skin nearly had him pulling away, but the moment the warm blood touched his tongue, he found it difficult to pull away. He drank for all he was worth, his body coming alive in a way he could have never predicted. He almost felt normal...alive. He could feel Jeonghan petting his hair through it, and when he felt Seokmin had drunk his fill, he gently pulled him away from the messy neck. When Seokmin whined at the loss, he pulled the other against him and resumed petting his hair as a way to comfort him.

"I know, Love, but there will be plenty more in the future." He promised. He then kissed the top of Seokmin's hair. "Welcome to your new life."

Chapter Text

When Jeonghan wasn't busy tending to the kingdom, he spent all of his free time with Seokmin, something the other found to be bizarre and difficult to understand. He wasn't used to attention and so much of it. He wasn't sure how to accept it, but he couldn't reject it either. He didn't want to. He spent time with his new husband, listening to the idle conversation he made about his different tasks, as well as anything he needed to know about his new life. He could go out in the sun as long as he was protected by shade or had a special kind of blood beforehand. He still had strength to gain, but with how Jeonghan fed him, the king assumed it wouldn't be long until he was a strong vampire, his perfect match. Jeonghan, once a day, would take Seokmin down to the dungeon to feast on any of the prisoners he pleased. If Seokmin didn't want to, or there wasn't anyone, a special meal would be made for him instead. Jeonghan, Seokmin was figuring out, would do anything for him, and that scared him as much as it excited him.

They were spending a day in the royal garden admiring the flowers. Jeonghan had learned that Seokmin was fond of flowers and animals. His face would light up when he saw the rabbits bouncing around or the birds that perched on the trees. He would take his time to admire the various flowers and plants that were carefully selected and planted by the gardeners. Jeonghan sat nearby on one of the many benches, shaded by a large camphor tree. He watched fondly as Seokmin took his time talking to the flowers, claiming it helped them grow better, before greeting one of the rabbits sitting nearby. Jeonghan was nearly lost in his husband, but his peace was interrupted by the sound of shuffling. He turned to see Jisoo walking toward him, looking rather serious. He bowed, and Jeonghan sat up, waiting.

"Your Majesty," Jisoo started. "News of your marriage has been sent throughout the kingdom. Many are sending their concerns and congratulations, but there are many demands to open the gates again." He informed.

Jeonghan sighed. He knew this day would come, but he had hoped to extend it just a while longer. He wanted to give Seokmin more time to adjust before throwing him into the whirlwind of chaos that lay before them. There was also the ugly, selfish part within him that wanted to keep his husband to himself forever, but he knew that was unreasonable. He had an obligation to this kingdom, and he had promised to serve it well. He would never break that promise. His gaze fell to his husband once more, who was now feeding the rabbit.

"I will have to postpone the plan once more." He noted to Jisoo.

The man nodded. "Yes, but that doesn't mean the searches stop. We will continue." He promised.

Jeonghan hummed, delighted when Seokmin approached them. He greeted Jisoo before sitting next to his husband.

"Alright, plan a ball," Jeonghan ordered.

Seokmin's eyes widened in slight alarm, and Jeonghan was quick to comfort and reassure him. "We have to answer to the kingdom. We can't leave them in the dark." He explained. "But I will not throw you out to the wolves. Jisoo and Wonwoo will prepare you. A lot goes into planning a ball at this grand scale. It will be months." He reassured. "By then, you will have adjusted to your vampiric nature and will have calmed your blood lust. To help speed the process, we'll share a bed."

Before Seokmin could say anything, Jeonghan gently cut him off. "I am your sire. The stronger our bond is, the stronger you are." He leaned closer as he took the other's hand, his hot breath tickling Seokmin's skin. "Besides, we're married and I can't get enough of you."

Seokmin, despite knowing he couldn't, swore he could feel himself blushing. He cleared his throat, feeling awkward that Jisoo had been standing there the entire time while Jeonghan carried on. However, the man didn't seem flustered in the slightest. He wasn't even looking at them, his eyes fixated on the distance.

"Okay." He finally replied. "I won't let you down."

Jeonghan smiled at him fondly, caressing his cheek. "You never could."

Seokmin's first lesson took place the following day. He and the king had parted ways after breakfast, a special meal made by the kind cook Seokmin met once before. Jeonghan left with Jisoo to oversee plans and to give orders and insight where needed. Seokmin was left with Wonwoo in the royal library. He still found himself transfixed by him. He was so strong and dependable. He was enchanting, and Seokmin found that he couldn't stop staring at his neck, but with Jeonghan's help, he was learning to control himself better. He could pull himself out of the deep thoughts when he felt himself starting to drown in them. Today was no different. He blinked a couple of times as his attendant placed a piece of paper on the table in front of them. It had many lines of writing, made by Wonwoo himself with careful and meticulous handwriting.

"There are many customs and requirements to remember. It is important that you remember them, Your Majesty." Wonwoo began.

Seokmin nodded diligently, ready to listen. He wanted to do well, not just for his survival, but to please Jeonghan. Now that escape was no longer an option, he had to live the life that was before him. It wasn't like he could go back, nor did he find himself wanting to. As much as it concerned him, he was starting to adapt to this new life. He was starting to like it. He finally felt like he belonged somewhere, and it was all thanks to Jeonghan. He still felt rage for Danmi's unfair death, but maybe, just maybe, it had to happen, as much as it pained him to consider. Maybe this was all bigger than him. For now, he would focus on the present.

"At the ball, you must always stay on His Majesty's left, and he is always to take the lead. This is for your protection." Wonwoo began.

"Protection?" Seokmin questioned.

It was a ball, a celebration of their marriage. Why would he be in any danger? Wonwoo looked away from the paper to look at Seokmin patiently as he nodded once.

"Yes. There are always rebels waiting in the shadows, people who disagree with the way the country is being run. As you are now married to His Majesty, it makes you a direct target." Wonwoo explained.

"I see," Seokmin murmured. "You may continue."

Wonwoo's gaze returned to the paper. "No one is to touch you, that is to include shaking your hand, until His Majesty touches them first. This is to avoid curses and any other dark magic that could sneak its way in."

Seokmin felt concern rising within him. "Won't he be hurt?"

Wonwoo was quick to put him at ease. "He's strong. It would take a lot. Otherwise, this rule wouldn't be in place." He reassured.

Seokmin found he could breathe just a bit easier. He was becoming too fond of the king despite the anger he had originally felt toward him. He enjoyed his soft voice, his gentle but firm touch, his care. He craved it. He didn't want to lose it all. He didn't want to lose Jeonghan. He didn't want to be the cause of his demise.

"Right," He replied. "What about eating? Will dinner be served?"

"Yes. Dinner will be served an hour before the ball, and only the most important guests will be in attendance. You are not to eat or drink anything until a designated servant tests it first. In this case, I will be the one to test it."

Seokmin's eyes widened. "I couldn't let you be poisoned or die for me." He gasped, horrified at the very idea. As he was becoming fond of Jeonghan, he was just as fond of his attendant. His only friend, his protector.

Wonwoo's eyes softened, but his expression otherwise remained stoic. "My life has long since been sworn to His Majesty and, in turn, to you. It is my honor to protect and serve, and I will do it without hesitation or regret."

Seokmin, though warmed and touched by the reply, still wasn't eager about the arrangement. A thought crossed his mind, and he held it there to store away for another time. Wonwoo continued on.

"Ardmendia is an independent nation. Alliances with other nations are strongly and strictly regulated. There will be nationals at this ball. They have all been thoroughly checked and processed, but there is still a chance of something rotten slipping through the cracks. No deals are to be made during the ball. If there is discussion of such things, it will warrant automatic removal. You are not to speak with any of them. However, you are permitted to speak of the citizens of Ardmendia. You are encouraged to speak with them as it will strengthen communication." Wonwoo told him.

Seokmin nodded, keeping the rules fresh in his mind, and when Wonwoo sent him off to Jisoo, he kept reciting everything to himself in hopes he could do well. Jisoo was different from Wonwoo. Where his attendant seemed cold and aloof, he had an undertone of warmth, but no such thing could be found with Jisoo. He seemed cold all the way through. Seokmin was concerned that his husband's right-hand man hated him. He gulped as he sat across from the man sitting elegantly. Jisoo's eyes stared straight through him.

"What do you know of His Majesty?" He asked.

Seokmin shifted a bit uncomfortably in his seat. "Not much." He admitted. "Just that he's been hidden away."

Jisoo nodded in affirmation. "Yes. He has, but he's practically Ardmendia itself. He was born to the first royal family in 1302. His father founded this nation."

Seokmin couldn't control his shock. He knew from the paintings that Jeonghan had been alive for quite a while, but he couldn't have imagined just how long. He couldn't imagine the life he led, but from the look in Jisoo's red eyes, he was about to find out.

"In 1330, His Majesty had been away on a trip with his son. When they returned, the queen and king, and Jeonghan's wife had been brutally slaughtered."

A gasp escaped Seokmin. It was much worse than he thought, and his heart began to ache for his husband. His husband who showered him with so much love and affection. Was his heart hurting? Jisoo ignored Seokmin's gasp and continued on.

"When he tried to investigate, he was turned into a monster of blood against his will. The one who turned him was the one who murdered his family. Concerned for his son's well-being, he sent him away. He only returned years later to take the throne in place of his father, who would never age. From then on, His Majesty was always in the shadows, silently taking care of his country and his descendants. He never stopped looking for the one who took life from him. The recent queen was his descendant. She and the king were unable to have children. However, a sighting of His Majesty stirred news among the staff and before long, the kingdom. His Majesty had no choice but to play the role given to him. When the king and queen were murdered by the same person, he knew he could no longer stay in the shadows. That is where we are now." Jisoo concluded.

He eyed Seokmin carefully. "Do you understand how important this all is?"

Seokmin slowly nodded. There was a lot going on and a lot to consider. He wondered how he played into it, but he was too afraid to question it. He could only do what Jeonghan asked of him. He could only stay by his side and do what was needed of him. He let Jisoo continue on about other pieces of Ardmendian history, but this time, he tuned him out, only thinking of how his husband had suffered all these years. He wondered how he carried such strength and resilience. He admired him.

He was still in a daze when he returned to the king's chambers. Jeonghan was already there, changed for bed, and waiting for Seokmin. He lit up seeing him and all but pulled him down on the bed with him. Seokmin had already been dressed in pajamas thanks to Wonwoo, and he easily fell into the royal's arms. Jeonghan noticed the distant gaze in his husband's eyes, and he frowned as he tugged him closer.

"My Love, what is plaguing your mind?" He asked softly.

Seokmin briefly wondered if Jeonghan already knew and was just giving him the chance to be honest. However, he knew they still needed to discuss it, otherwise, it was going to eat him up inside.

"I learned a lot today." He admitted.

Jeonghan nuzzled into him, cold nose poking into Seokmin's neck. "About me?" He whispered, hot breath tickling Seokmin in a way he was begging to like.

"Yes." He breathed out. "Your family..." He swallowed hard. "I didn't know you were married before."

He could feel Jeonghan's smirk against his skin before the other gently pulled away and, with his free arm, pinched Seokmin's cheek. "Are you jealous?" He cooed.

Seokmin, despite the king's unnaturally strong hold, tried to turn away from his husband. He wasn't accustomed to such blatant intimacy, and his husband was never shy with it. The king noticed the shift and turned a bit more serious.

"It was an arranged marriage, something I never wanted, but did out of obligation and honor. Over time, we came to an understanding and learned how to live with one another. She was my friend and she didn't deserve to die the way she had, but."

He pulled Seokmin closer once more. "I have never loved anyone the way I love you." He confessed, warming Seokmin's cold skin with his words. "I have been alive for centuries, and no one has known or had my heart the way you do, my darling Seokmin."

Seokmin still couldn't understand their bond, why it was him, why it was his heart that called out and answered Jeonghan's, but for now, he stayed quiet, allowing himself to relax in his husband's arms. Maybe some things didn't need an answer. Perhaps, they simply were.

Chapter Text

Seokmin worked and diligently learned for the month leading up to the ball. He paid close attention during Wonwoo's lessons on royal etiquette and what was expected of him. He was determined to do well and be as perfect as he could. He wouldn't let Jeonghan down. He couldn't let Jeonghan down. The palace gates hadn't been opened since Jeonghan first announced his marriage to Seokmin. That had been two months ago. No citizens of Ardmendia had seen Jeonghan- not anyone who was able to remember doing so. All of that was about to change. All eyes would be on them, and that terrified Seokmin.

The palace was always chaotic in some way or another in preparation for the ball. Seokmin had barely seen his husband except at night. He was beginning to feel lonely, and he couldn't wait for the day of the ball to arrive so things could return to the normal he had started to become accustomed to. Then, on one warm summer evening in June, everything came together. Despite how well prepared he was, Seokmin nearly felt nauseous from how anxious he was.

He sat in his room as Wonwoo brought his suit to him. Jeonghan had it custom-made for him, and it was the first time he had been allowed to see it. It was breathtaking. It was a deep maroon with gold trimming. The fabric underneath crossed sides against his chest and was covered by a light overcoat. The bottoms flared out, but still fit against him snugly. It was a modern take on traditional Ardmendian clothing, and as Wonwoo dressed him, he explained how it would match Jeonghan's. When Seokmin finally caught sight of himself in the mirror, he resisted the urge to gasp. He had never found himself to be handsome or attractive. He had always been too tired and poor to take proper care of himself, but he could admit that he looked handsome. His skin was paler than usual, and his eyes had a red glint to them, but to him, it seemed to add to the ensemble. Wonwoo stood behind him, making small adjustments here and there, but he could catch a glimpse of a barely-there smile on his face.

"Just because you can eat food now doesn't mean that it will taste good," Wonwoo warned. "Take small bites and focus on the wine as well as the conversation around you."

Seokmin nodded, taking a deep breath. He could do it. Everything would be okay. He had Wonwoo and, most importantly, Jeonghan by his side. As if Wonwoo could read his mind, he felt his attendant pat his shoulder before leading him out of the room and to Jeonghan. Wonwoo hadn't been lying; Jeonghan did match him, but he looked beyond breathtaking. The outfit fit snugly around him, and his long hair was elegantly tied up. Seokmin could even see some shimmer on his eyelids. Just as he was taking him in, he noticed the royal's eyes had yet to leave him. He looked as if he wanted to devour him, but with the elegance only a royal could hold, he held out his left arm.

"The people await." He said as Seokmin latched on.

When they were a considerable few steps away from the others, he leaned down. "You look divine, Love. I can't wait to eat you up later." He whispered, clacking his fangs against his other teeth for added effect.

It was enough to make Seokmin laugh and relax a little as they entered the royal dining hall. A multitude of people were before them, and they all stood to bow and respectfully greet them. They sat at the head of the table, the others only sitting once the royals were fully seated. Within moments, the food was served, and as rehearsed, Jisoo tested Jeonghan's while Wonwoo tested Seokmin's. He held his breath, his eyes never leaving Wonwoo until he was sure his attendant was alright. Only then did he relax. He attempted a tiny bite of stew but instantly regretted it as he threatened to gag at its chalk-like texture. He kept his composure as he chewed and swallowed, reaching for his wine when an acceptable amount of time had passed. He took a tiny sip, concerned for its taste, but was delighted and pleased to find it was blood.

Jeonghan, who had been subtly watching him out of the corner of his eye, softly smiled before sending him a wink. Then, just as quickly, he returned to discussing something with one of the nationals seated near him. Seokmin watched him with admiration. Jeonghan would take skillful, careful bites of the food here and there, followed by a sip of wine. It seemed to come naturally to him. He would almost swear he was human if he hadn't known better. Finally, after dessert, Jeonghan called for dinner to come to an end. Everyone was to move to the ballroom. The royals stood, and following Jeonghan's lead once more, Seokmin walked to the ballroom with his husband. It was lively and packed. A live band was playing classical music as various well-dressed individuals were spread out dancing or chatting with one another. Seokmin stuck close to Jeonghan, feeling intimidated by the whole ordeal. The king seemed to understand as he tucked him close, leading him around. He was introduced to various nationals and subjects, remembering to only take their hand after Jeonghan had.

"Your Majesty, I had not anticipated you to wed a man." One national stated, eyeing Seokmin with a certain glint in his gaze. Seokmin felt small under it and refused the man's hand when it was offered. He hadn't touched Jeonghan first.

The king's eyes narrowed as he hastily snatched the man's hand and shook it once before dropping it. "I think you will find that Ardmendia is an open-minded country with views placed in more important places." He answered.

"I see." The man replied, trying once more to reach for Seokmin.

This time, Jeonghan was less forgiving and snatched his husband away from the man and moved to another section of the ballroom. As he turned back, Seokmin could see Jisoo and Wonwoo leading the man out of the ballroom. Seokmin hoped they were just kicking him out and not taking him to the dungeon. He had a feeling his blood would taste disgusting. A squeeze to his hand told him that Jeonghan felt the same way. They stopped in front of two well-dressed men who bowed in greeting.

"Seokmin, this is Xu Minghao and Wen Junhui. They are from China and are like us." Jeonghan introduced.

Seokmin's curious eyes fell to their mouths, where he could see the hint of fangs. He had no idea that there were more like them, especially in other countries. It scared him as much as it excited him. What else didn't he know? Minghao was the first one to step forward.

"It is an honor to make your acquaintance."

Junhui followed with a gentle smile. "His Majesty speaks highly of you."

Before Seokmin could retaliate, Jeonghan continued on. "Minghao and Junhui were turned by the one who turned me. In that sense, we are related." He explained.

Junhui's expression darkened in the slightest at Jeonghan's words. "Speaking of, he has been sighted in Japan."

Jeonghan let go of Seokmin's hand as he took a deep breath. He nodded once before turning his attention to his husband. "My Love, perhaps you can converse with some of the citizens. I heard some of them are dying to speak with you."

It was a suggestion, but Seokmin saw it for what it was, an order, however gentle of one. He said his goodbyes to Minghao and Junhui before heading off in another direction to give them the privacy they needed, but he wasn't alone. He never would be. He could feel Wonwoo hovering nearby, having returned from escorting the rude national out. It gave him the security and bravery he needed to converse with others. He met and spoke with people from his old neighborhood. He greeted them properly, but didn't linger long. Instead, he focused all of his attention on the middle to lower class individuals who came to him with concerns such as lack of transportation, market prices, and health care. He listened with rapt attention and promised to bring the matters up to Jeonghan at a later time. He was almost having a lovely time, that was, until he caught sight of familiar faces.

His sisters and mother were standing before him, dressed in the finest ball gowns money could buy. It seemed Jeonghan had kept his word and sent them money in place of him and Danmi. They were using it well from the looks of it. They were healthier and well-fed. It should have made him happy and relieved to see, but he had a bitter taste in his mouth and a sinking feeling in his chest. They greeted him properly, but he was too frozen to register it or offer any words. Before long, a firm, cold arm wrapped around his waist. Jeonghan was at his side. He greeted Seokmin's family with a particular glint in his eye, his gaze never leaving Seokmin's mother. The older woman stepped forward and bowed once more.

"Your Majesty, words alone are not enough to convey our gratitude for your generosity."

Seokmin wished he still had the ability to vomit. Her words caused the bitter taste in his mouth to expand, and he desperately wished to be rid of it. Beside him, Jeonghan smiled, but even Seokmin could tell it was fabricated.

"It is I who should be thanking you for giving life to Seokmin. Because of you, I am able to take care of him and love him the way he deserves." He grabbed onto Seokmin's hand. "If you'll excuse us, we are quite busy this evening."

Without another word, Seokmin was swept away from the people he once called his family and wrapped into his husband's arms as the band played a slow waltz. Jeonghan held him tightly as Seokmin buried his face in his shoulder, trying to hold back his tears. His family was better off without him. They didn't miss him. They didn't ask how he was. They didn't care about what had happened to Danmi. Jeonghan had been right, they would have chosen the money over him any day. If he had escaped and returned home, he wouldn't have been accepted. All fight left his body. There was no hope, no reason to escape. He belonged here. At least here, he was loved and cherished. When the waltz ended, Jeonghan pulled away and looked physically pained by Seokmin's tear-stained face. He wiped them away as Wonwoo appeared next to them.

"Go rest, Darling." He whispered, kissing a stray tear falling on Seokmin's cheek. "I'll take care of everything."

He was passed to Wonwoo who carefully led him out of the ballroom. He felt numb as he was led to his room and was changed out of his clothes and into his pajamas. Wonwoo had to pat him a couple of times to snap out of it. By the time he was led to Jeonghan's room for the night, the king was already there, dressed and waiting for him. Just how much time had passed? Was the ball already over? None of it seemed to matter as he melted into his husbands's hold, the king patting his back soothingly, knowing how upset he still was. After a long moment, Seokmin shuffled to meet Jeonghan in a long and tender kiss before laying his head on Jeonghan's chest.

"I love you." He admitted. "I know that now. Now that the fear and uncertainty have faded all I'm left with is the love. I still don't understand why you chose me, but thank you."

A kiss was placed on top of his head. "My Love, I would choose you a million times over. Thank you for staying. I will dedicate our forever together, showing you just how loved you are." He promised.

Seokmin knew that promise was eternal.

Chapter Text

Jeonghan was holding him close one evening when he felt his husband shift and move to whisper in his ear.

"My love, how do you feel about a family?"

Seokmin paused, taking in the question. A family. He didn't know what a real family was like. His had seen and used him as spare parts, a warm body to make more money for them. It seemed the best thing he ever did for them was leave them. When it came to families, Seokmin knew little to nothing. He wasn't sure if he wanted one, but when he rolled over and saw the rare eager glint in his husband's eyes, he found himself reconsidering. Maybe a family with Jeonghan wouldn't be such a bad thing, but what would it look like? Jeonghan was the king, and Seokmin, his consort. Many eyes were on them. What was their family to be?

"How do you mean?" Seokmin asked, voice barely above a whisper.

"Vampires have built families around themselves for centuries. A family of blood and bond." He explained. "Jisoo is technically a part of our family. I sired him many years ago, which means the two of you are brothers of the blood."

That explained the strange pull Seokmin had felt to Jisoo the day after he had been turned. It wasn't strong like his and Jeonghan's, but there was a noticeable shift and pull in how he viewed and felt about the other man. He didn't fear him like he once had and felt at peace, as if he had known him for a lifetime. Now it all made sense. They were connected, like all things, it seemed, through Jeonghan.

Jeonghan continued on. "Some time after, Jisoo met a human he couldn't live without. So with my permission and guidance, he sired Seungcheol. He lives and works in this palace too. You might see him from time to time."

Seokmin let it all sink in, processing what it was that Jeonghan was asking him. "Are you asking me if I want to turn someone?" He finally asked.

Jeonghan grinned, cold fingers finding their familiar position in Seokmin's soft hair. "That is what I'm asking." He confirmed. "You're strong enough now to do it. You could turn someone if you so desired."

Jeonghan's fingers all of a sudden halted all their ministrations. "You want Wonwoo, don't you?"

It wasn't a question as much as it was a statement and it had Seokmin sputtering, pulling away and sitting up. He wanted to explain himself to his husband. It was a thought that crossed his mind often but he was never sure of how to bring it up or if he was allowed to. He was, once again, wondering if Jeonghan had read his mind. The king noticed his panic and lightly laughed as he sat up as well, a hand moving to cup Seokmin's cheek.

"My love, there's nothing to worry about. You may have him if he accepts." Jeonghan reassured him. "I'd give you the world if you only asked."

Seokmin practically deflated in Jeonghan's hold. "So, I can ask to turn him?" He asked, surprised by how excited he sounded.

Jeonghan's grin widened. "Yes, but just know that being a sire is a grand responsibility. He would be yours to look after just as you're mine."

That didn't deter Seokmin. In fact, he liked the idea a lot. Wonwoo put his life on the line for him every day and took care of him without question or hesitation. He was the first one Seokmin had felt safe with in the palace. He owed everything to Wonwoo, and he wanted to repay him. He wanted to be the one to take care of him for once. It was perfect. Only, he wasn't sure how to bring it up.

Several days had passed before Seokmin worked up the nerve. It was a cloudy afternoon, and Jeonghan had left him with Wonwoo as he went to attend to some business. The attendant was in Seokmin's room, folding his clothes that were returned by the laundry staff earlier that morning. Seokmin offered to help him, and after some squabbling, the two were peacefully folding the clothes in a comfortable silence. Suddenly, Seokmin paused after folding a pair of pants and looked evenly at his attendant.

"Wonwoo, are you happy?"

Wonwoo's expression remained stoic, but Seokmin could see how taken aback he was, even as he never stopped folding.

"I am happy to serve His Majesty," Wonwoo replied easily and almost without hesitation.

Seokmin frowned, unhappy with the answer. "Before you were assigned as my attendant, you were with the Royal Ministry of Defense, were you not?"

"I was." Wonwoo confirmed. "I still am. I am capable of doing both, but my first priority is you, Your Mjaesty, if that's your concern."

Seokmin shook his head. "It's not. I understand you're capable, more than capable. That is not what I'm asking."

He knew firsthand that Wonwoo was capable of so much. Between their first meeting and the ball, Wonwoo had been his support through it all. He protected Seokmin even when he didn't realize he needed protecting. Wonwoo halted folding as well and gently put a pair of pants on top of his neat stack before patiently looking at Seokmin.

"So, what are you asking? I fear I don't understand."

Seokmin took a deep breath. This was it, his window of opportunity. It was now or never. "You've seen everything. You know everything. You know what Jeonghan is. You know what I am." He stated.

Wonwoo nodded along. "Monsters of the blood, vampires. I've been trained to understand and cater to your specific needs."

Seokmin met his eyes and was determined to hold his gaze. "What if you could do more? Be more?"

Confusion broke through Wonwoo's stoic expression, and Seokmin, realizing he was getting through, continued. "I've seen the curiosity in your gaze, the longing. I can hear it in your pounding heart whenever I eat. You want to know, you always have, haven't you?"

For once, the man seemed to be at a loss for words as Seokmin leaned in closer, feeling an unfamiliar pull. "I can show you. I can give it to you." He offered. "Jeonghan said I could choose anyone I wanted. I want you."

Wonwoo swallowed hard, and Seokmin tracked the movement before his gaze returned to Wonwoo's surprised eyes.

"His Majesty approved this?"

Seokmin eagerly nodded. "He encouraged me." He answered. "So? Is this something you want? I promise you won't be alone. I'll take care of you. It's finally my turn to protect you."

Wonwoo silently stared at him for a long time. Seokmin could hear his heartbeat pounding harder and harder as he thought it over. Wonwoo's eyes scanned over Seokmin's expression, assessing before lingering on his mouth.

"Yes." He answered finally. "I want it."

Seokmin, beyond delighted, all but ran around the room. They hastily put the clothes away before Wonwoo left to get Jisoo. When discussing the details, Jeonghan had told him to ask for Jisoo to be there to make sure he didn't go overboard or hurt either of them. In all of his excitement, he had nearly forgotten, but it seemed Wonwoo knew it all. The two entered the room moments later, and Jisoo stood in the far corner while Wownoo sat on the bed. Seokmin stared down at him, suddenly unsure. Jeonghan had talked him through it so many times, but now that Wownoo was actually in front of him, it felt different. He stalled for time by making sure the other was comfortably seated on the bed and asking him once more if he was sure. When Wownoo confirmed that he was, Seokmin stood once more. The door opening surprised all of them as Jeonghan strolled into the room. Wonwoo went to stand and give a proper greeting, but the king gently eased him back down with a newfound fond smile.

"You've chosen well, Seokminnie." Jeonghan praised. "Have you decided how you're going to do it?"

Seokmin shook his head with a pout. Jeonghan resisted the urge to coo as he decided to take pity on his husband and help him. He situated him until Seokmin was in Wonwoo's lap, leaving them both wide-eyed. Jeonghan combed through Wonwoo's hair, an action that seemed far too natural and it left the human's head spinning as his heart rate picked up once again.

"Is this alright?" He asked softly.

Wonwoo was stunned as he dared to meet the royal's eyes. "Shouldn't I be the one asking you that?"

Jeonghan laughed. "This is between you and Seokmin. You have long since had my blessing."

The statement seemed to relax both of them as their focus turned to one another. With a subtle nod from Wonwoo, Seokmin leaned down and bit the man's neck, near the one protruding vein he had discovered once before. Wonwoo lightly groaned, hands falling to Seokmin's hips as the vampire drank for all he was worth. The blood was warm and inviting. It tasted nothing like the other blood Seokmin had been consuming. Wonwoo's was richer, fuller, and Seokmin felt warm as it rushed through him. Jisoo and Jeonghan stood nearby, watching carefully, and when Wownoo's grip on Seokmin's hips went slack, they moved to pull them away. Seokmin whined with a blood-stained mouth, and Jeonghan couldn't resist him as he leaned in to quickly kiss him, taking a taste for himself.

"You have to finish it, Love. You know what to do." He whispered as they pulled away.

With determination and eagerness, Seokmin bit into his own wrist and held it to Wonwoo's mouth. The human was almost too weak to lift his own head, but with Jisoo's help, he met Seokmin's wrist and drank like a man dying of thirst. The moment Seokmin winced, Jeonghan held his husband's waist to pull him back. The other tried to fight, but was finding himself growing weaker by the second.

"I need to stay with him." He mumbled.

He didn't want to leave Wonwoo vulnerable and alone. Not like this. He needed to take care of him, just like he had promised. Jeonghan held him against his chest.

"You'll have plenty of time with him, but for now, Jisoo will stay with him. You need to rest right now. You're practically a newborn yourself." He explained. "Let me take care of you."

Seokmin was too exhausted to argue and wasn't surprised to find them in Jeonghan's room minutes later. He let his husband push him down onto the bed and hold him close. He could still taste Wonwoo's blood and feel it as it warmed him. He had never felt so peaceful, and with that thought, he let his eyes flutter shut.

Chapter Text

Seokmin took his new responsibilities seriously. He had given Wonwoo a new life, and he intended to take care of him as well as show him the new ways of it. He hadn't anticipated, however, that Wonwoo knew much more than he did. He had been trained to understand and tend to every vampiric need. His knowledge exceeded Seokmin's, and he was at a loss of what to do. He felt like a failure of a sire. So, he did what could. He provided Wonwoo with his first real taste. He had tried to check up on Wonwoo the day after turning him. He wanted to be there when he woke up, knowing how jarring and confusing it was, but Jeonghan held him back, reassuring him that Jisoo had it taken care of. He would care for him until he was ready. Seokmin wasn't pleased with the arrangement, but he was still new to everything. He felt he couldn't argue. They knew best. Seokmin didn't see Wonwoo for two days. It was strange not to have his attendant near him and he could feel a strange ache that couldn't be cured. When caught moping, Jeonghan calmly explained as he ran his fingers through his husband's hair that the ache was the newfound bond he shared with Wonwoo.

"You care so much, don't you, Seokminnie?" Jeonghan cooed. "It will all be alright. He will return to you."

Seokmin wasn't at ease until he saw Wonwoo red-eyed and stronger than ever. It seemed as if he were made to be a vampire. He greeted Seokmin as usual, but he could see a hint of happiness in his attendant's eyes. An excitement that hadn't been there before. A spark of new life.

"I have returned, Your Majesty. I am here to serve."

Seokmin instantly shook his head. "Today is about you, Wonwoo. Your first real feed."

Wonwoo bowed. "I am eager to learn."

Seokmin led him down to the dungeon. It was the first time he was going without Jeonghan. It was strange and it almost felt wrong, like he was doing something he wasn't meant to, despite him and Jeonghan personally setting everything up the day before. He took a deep breath as they passed the guards, and he was handed the key to the special door. The moment he unlocked the door, the man lying on the floor shifted. He couldn't move much as Jeonghan had paralyzed him, but he let out whimpers and groans in protest. Seokmin tried to ignore them. It was, as Jeonghan said, the man didn't deserve sympathy. He was a mass murderer, killing forty before his eventual capture. With that reminder, he turned to Wonwoo.

"He is all yours, Wonwoo."

For the first time, Seokmin saw Wonwoo look uncertain. "Forgive me for seeming...impolite, but I am...clueless." He admitted.

Right. Learning about vampires was different from being one. It was the only thing Wonwoo didn't know how to do. Seokmin could finally teach him something. He brightened.

"I will show you." He promised.

Mirroring his first time, he kneeled down next to the man, making sure Wonwoo was watching him. He bit the man's neck and made a show of taking a large drink before pulling away. He stood as he licked his lips.

"Now you try."

With a nod, Wonwoo kneeled next to the man and tentatively bit into the other side of the man's neck. He drank but pulled away quicker than the royal expected. Seokmin frowned.

"Is something the matter?" He asked as he helped Wonwoo up.

"I don't think I prefer it directly from the source." He admitted quietly.

Seokmin was thoughtful as he led them out of the dungeon. Jeonghan had explained to him that vampires could survive in numerous ways and didn't have to rely on fresh blood. Any type of blood, as long as it wasn't from the dead, was acceptable.

"That's fine." He finally answered. "We are all different, as I'm learning. Our cook provides lovely blood meals."

It earned him a smile from Wonwoo. It seemed that since becoming a vampire, the man had smiled more. It pleased Seokmin, relieved he had a hand in Wonwoo's happiness. Just as they made their way back to the main floor of the palace, they were approached by a broad man with curly hair. Seokmin didn't recognize him and unintentionally took a step back, the action not going unnoticed by Wonwoo. He subtly placed himself between them.

"Yes, Seungcheol?" Wonwoo asked the man.

Seokmin's ears perked at the name. Seungcheol. He peeked at the man from behind Wonwoo's broad back. From there, he could see Seungcheol's red eyes and fangs. He was the one Jisoo had sired. He was safe. He was family.

Seungcheol bowed respectfully. "I am honored to finally make your acquaintance, Your Majesty." He greeted.

Seokmin stepped out from behind Wonwoo. "I have heard a lot about you, Seungcheol-ssi. I am pleased to finally meet you." He replied.

"Seungcheol, can this wait?" Wonwoo asked after the pleasantries were exchanged.

"I'm afraid not. You are needed."

Wonwoo spared a glance to Seokmin. Perhaps it was the new bond they shared, but he instantly understood. Wonwoo didn't want to leave him. He gently patted his arm.

"Go on. I'll be alright. I was without you for two days. I'm sure I can manage for a few hours."

Wonwoo still looked rather reluctant, but nodded as he left with Seungcheol. Seokmin suddenly found himself with a free afternoon, and he wasn't sure what to do with himself all alone. Jeonghan would most likely be busy until that evening. He decided to head to the garden. It never failed to bring him peace. Jeonghan had the gardeners add daisies and tulips to the vast flower array after discovering that Seokmin enjoyed them as well as sunflowers. He greeted them as he checked the petals and the soil around them.

"You're growing well." He praised. "You're going to be prettiest in all of Ardmendia."

Satisfied with the flowers and their growth, he set out to find the rabbits. He was particularly fond of a white one he had named Bomi. Before he could find her, he heard a commotion coming from the east side of the garden. It sounded like taunts and shouts. Curious as well as concerned, Seokmin silently promised to visit Bomi later with some extra lettuce as he headed toward the noise. He was taken aback by the sight of lower-level guards gathered around something, or rather someone. The shouts and taunts were coming from them, and as Seokmin inched closer, he caught sight of a scared boy clutching vegetables to his chest. His anger grew when he saw the guards kick him.

"What is going on here?" Seokmin asked.

Slowly, the guards turned, and one by one, he watched as their faces paled upon seeing him. They stumbled to bow and greet him. One stepped forward, taking on the role as leader to address Seokmin.

"Your Majesty, we caught this filthy thief stealing from the vegetable garden. Low class scum is nothing for you to concern yourself over. We can take care of it."

Seokmin's eyes narrowed in the slightest, trying to contain his growing anger. "I'm sure. Regardless, I will handle this matter myself."

"Your Majesty,"

All it took was a look from Seokmin, and the words quickly died in the guard's throat. He reluctantly bowed and ordered the men to move away. If Seokmin hadn't had other things on his mind, he would have noted how much power he was truly holding. It was the first time he had ever exerted it and wasn't sure how he felt about it. He would have to think about it later. For now, he focused on the terrified boy in front of him. He could hear his heart racing and could practically taste his fear. He leaned down to meet the boy at eye level and tried not to frown when the boy tried to scurry away from him in fear.

"Hey, it's okay. I'm not going to hurt you, I promise."

The boy still looked frightened and hesitant, but he stayed in place.

"May I ask why you are taking vegetables?" Seokmin asked, trying to keep his voice calm and level.

The question only caused the boy to panic once more as he started spouting out frantic apologies. Seokmin, still in a squat, calmly waited for him to finish.

"I am not angry." He instantly reassured him. "I am simply curious." He paused a moment. "Where are you from?"

"Northern Ardmendia." The boy whispered.

Seokmin's heart sank. While Southern Ardmendia wasn't the best, Northern Ardmendia was the worst. Poverty ran rampet and there was little to no housing or food in that area. For this boy to make the long journey to the palace just to steal some measly vegetables, he must have been beyond desperate.

"What's your name?"

The boy seemed reluctant once more, but Seokmin must have shown genuine kindness in his eyes, because the boy answered him.

"Boo Seungkwan."

Seokmin smiled, hoping it would put the other at ease. "Hi, Seungkwan. I'm Yoon Seokmin."

It was the first time he was saying his married name. It sat unfamiliar on the tip of tongue, but he didn't hate it. He liked it. Lee Seokmin was long dead. The man who sacrificed himself over and over again until there was nothing left. Yoon Seokmin was born to darkness, but also to unconditional love and comfort. He was anew and whole.

Seungkwan's eyes remained on the grass. "Everyone knows who you are, your Majesty." He muttered.

The royal felt a bit awkward as he let out a quiet laugh. "Right." He then cleared his throat. "Either way, you may have the vegetables. They're grown to eat after all, but would you like something more...substantial?"

When Seungkwan looked up at him with wide eyes, he continued with a knowing tone. "How many are counting on you back home?"

He could see it in his desperation, an expression he had worn many times before. He wasn't providing for just himself. He wasn't worried about himself. He was worried about someone else.

"Just one. My friend. We ran away together." Seungkwan answered.

"Okay. I can help with that." Seokmin said as he stood. "Wait here, okay?"

He was unsure if Seungkwan would actually stay, but he was going to take a chance and hope. He calmly made his way through the palace until he was in the kitchen. Thankfully, the woman he had met once before was in there cooking some kind of stew with a special ingredient, perhaps for dinner that evening. When she noticed Seokmin, she lit up and turned the burner off to properly greet him.

"How may I be of assistance?" She asked.

Suddenly, Seokmin felt a bit nervous. He was acting on his own today, making his own decisions and demands. It was liberating as it was terrifying. The woman stood patiently, waiting for him.

"Is there any way I could...take some non-perishables...to give away?" He tentatively asked.

The woman nodded. "Of course."

She helped Seokmin fill a large basket with a large variety of food, more than enough for two people for a while. Seungkwan and his friend wouldn't starve to death. He thanked the woman, finally learning her name to be Park Sooryong, opting to be referred to as Mrs. Park. He headed back out to the garden and was surprised and pleased to find Seungkwan still sitting there, clutching the potatoes and carrots close to himself. He slightly flinched when Seokmin squatted next to him, but his eyes were trained on the basket.

"I hope this can feed you and your friend. Be safe and healthy, okay?"

Seungkwan had tears in his eyes as he stood and bowed over and over again, trying to convey his gratitude. Seokmin stood as well and smiled. "Let me show you out."

Once Seungkwan was safely beyond the palace walls, Seokmin made his way into the palace once more, wondering what he was going to do now. It was late evening when he saw Jeonghan again. He had, for the first time since he married the king, eaten dinner alone. As he was walking out of the dining hall, he was stopped by Jisoo.

"His Majesty would like to see you in his office." He announced.

Seokmin eagerly followed him, wanting to see his husband. While his and Wonwoo's bond lightly tugged at him whenever his attendant wasn't near, his bond with Jeonghan cut through him when they weren't by each other's side. The pain only subsided when Jisoo opened a massive door, revealing Jeonghan on the other side. The king, as always, lit up upon seeing Seokmin. He quickly thanked and dismissed Jisoo before tugging his husband inside. He sat the other in the large office chair as he stood behind him and wrapped his arms around him.

"It's been a long day, hasn't it?" He asked sympathetically.

Seokmin hummed. "I missed you." He admitted, making Jeonghan break out into the biggest grin.

"Not as much as I missed you," Jeonghan replied with a quick kiss to Seokmin's ear. "You've gotten so much cuter. What did you do today?"

"I provided Wonwoo with his first real meal, but he has determined he doesn't prefer it straight from the source, so I'll have Mrs. Park make special meals for him to keep up his intake."

"Look at you being the perfect sire already. Wonwoo is lucky to have you."

Seokmin blushed but continued on. "I met Seungcheol. I had no idea he worked with Wonwoo."

He could feel Jeonghan nod. "He trains all the soldiers and handles recruiting." He explained.

"Ah, well, he needed Wonwoo for something, so I bided my time in the garden." He briefly turned to his husband. "Is it possible to build an enclosure for Bomi?"

"Bomi?" Jeonghan questioned.

"The white rabbit in the garden." Seokmin clarified.

Jeonghan kissed his nose. "I will have someone start on it in the morning." He promised.

"Thank you."

Jeonghan hummed, cuddling further into Seokmin. "I heard you gathered nonperishables earlier today. What was that about?" He asked next.

Seokmin couldn't prevent the way he tensed in Jeonghan's hold. His husband noticed and moved from behind him so he could look at him.

"I'm not upset." He reassured. "You can do whatever you please. You could spray paint the walls, and I would have them framed." He told him sincerely. "I am only curious."

Seokmin nodded, calming down some. "The guards were harassing this boy in the garden. He stole some vegetables, and I felt for him. I was almost him once. I wanted to give him help as well as hope, so I gathered some food to give to him. If nothing else, it will keep him alive for a few more days. He was from Northern Ardmendia. It's worse than my neighborhood. My heart aches for him so."

Jeonghan's expression turned utterly fond. He moved Seokmin out of the chair and sat in it instead, pulling Seokmin into his lap. He kissed him tenderly. "You have the biggest heart. I am fortunate to have you by my side."

He wrapped him up in deep kisses, only pulling away to admire the other's slick and swollen lips. He brushed his thumb against Seokmin's lower lip, lips curling upward when the younger kissed it.

"You and I will have to discuss plans to unify and heal Ardmendia, but for now," He stood with Seokmin still on him. In a great display of strength, he held him in his arms as he began to walk, Seokmin wrapping around him in delight.

"I have other plans," Jeonghan concluded as he carried Seokmin to his bedroom.

Before he could process just what exactly was happening, he felt his back land against silk sheets and a soft mattress. Jeonghan hovered just above, drinking him in with an intense red gaze. For once, the gaze didn't intimidate him. He didn't feel the need to squirm underneath. He felt it for what it was, a gaze of love, of admiration. Jeonghan's hand came down to caress Seokmin's cheek.

"You're so pretty and all for me."

"All for you," Seokmin repeated, kissing Jeonghan's palm, making the king smile.

Jeonghan leaned down and captured his lip in a tender kiss that turned deeper, messy, and frantic. When they pulled away, Seokmin was seated on his husband's lap, and both of them were missing their shirts. Perhaps he was still feeling brave from earlier actions, but he lightly nibbled Jeonghan's ear before whispering into his ear.

"I want you just like this. May I?"

He swore he could hear the king's breath hitch. Either way, the grip around his waist tightened in just the slightest at the words. "Anything you want." Came Jeonghan's breathless reply.

Intimacy with Jeonghan was still new, but was slowly becoming familiar. Seokmin knew that Jeonghan would cater to his every desire, but there were still certain details he preferred. He liked being able to see Seokmin no matter what they were doing. He needed to be able to touch him. He enjoyed the feeling of his husband's hands as he grabbed onto him. He enjoyed having control, and Seokmin enjoyed handing it over to him. He was learning things about himself as well. He was learning that he enjoyed Jeonghan's firm touch, which was otherwise gentle. He adored the sweet praises his husband offered him whenever he slowly trusted in and out. Most importantly, he enjoyed the deeping of their bond.

After he was well-prepped upon the king's insistence, he slowly sank down onto Jeonghan's lap, feeling fuller by the second. Once he was fully seated, he leaned his head down onto the other's shoulder as he gave an experimental roll of the hips that had Jeonghan groaning low into his ear. After a few more seconds of grinding and rolling his hips, he finally adjusted and began to slowly lift his hips up before sinking down once more. He had never felt anything like it. To feel so connected and full. He met Jeonghan's eyes and was nearly startled to see the loving gaze meeting his behind the lust-filled expression and his cheeks dusted red from the warmth. His husband was looking at him as if he were the only one in the world, and it caused his hips to stutter from their rhythm, shaking moans out of them both.

"You can bite, you know," Jeonghan said suddenly. "It'll make it better."

Without hesitation, Seokmin bit into Jeonghan's shoulder as the other took over to thrust up into him. The warm rush of blood combined with the full feeling nearly made him pass out, but he happily kept his mouth buried in his husband's skin as the thrusts began to speed up in pace. Before long, he felt Jeonghan's fangs pierce his neck, and within seconds he came, Jeonghan following after a few harsh thrusts. Jeonghan slowly lifted Seokmin to pull out and carefully laid him down against their pillows. His fingers brushed against the bite mark he had just made.

"How do you feel, my love?"

There were no words to describe how Seokmin felt. Their bond, which nestled warmly in his heart, had bloomed and exploded into multicolored fragments. He was filled with so much love for Jeonghan, and it no longer scared him. He was at peace.

"Warm." Was what he settled on.

Jeonghan happily hummed as he pulled him close, only to reluctantly pull away seconds later. "How about a bath?"

After a warm bath, the two were tucked back into bed, wrapped tightly around one another, the swirl of their bond thrumming through them in place of their non-existent heartbeats. Only an hour had passed when Seokmin was awoken by a sharp pain in his abdomen that felt as if it were burning him from the inside out. He gasped and reached out for Jeonghan next to him, calling out something he hadn't before.

"Hyung!"

Jeonghan was alert within a second as he sat up. He took in his husband's state before spotting the masked assassin standing before them. He patted Seokmin's chest, and it could have been the pain making him delirious, but he swore he could see the older's hand shaking. He tried to see what was going on, but everything and everyone were moving too fast and too slow at the same time. All he knew was that he had been stabbed by an assassin, and Jeonghan was fighting off that assassin. Before long, he felt a cold hand on his cheek and a familiar tingle in his chest.

"Wonwoo." He mumbled.

Through bleary eyes, he could barely make out his attendant's concerned expression. His hands were stained red by Seokmin's blood from his attempt to stop the bleeding.

"Your Majesty, we have to leave. I will carry you out." Wonwoo informed him.

With what little strength he had, he shook his head. "I can't leave Jeonghan." He rasped out.

Where was he? Why couldn't he hear him fighting anymore? He managed to look around. He was no longer in the bedroom on their soft bed. When did he move? Who moved him? What happened? Where was Jeonghan?

"He ordered me to take you somewhere safe. Jeonghan, Jisoo, Seungcheol, and the rest of our guards are working to neutralize the threat. They'll be alright. Especially Jeonghan. Right now, the focus needs to be on you."

Seokmin's strength was greatly dwindling, and he felt himself nod before his entire world went dark around him, the string of his bond tugging at him desperately.

Chapter Text

Everything was in a haze. Seokmin slipped in and out of consciousness as Wonwoo carried him with his new vampiric strength. Every jostle made him wince as his abdomen clenched and seared with white hot pain. What was going on? Why was this happening? Was Jeonghan going to be okay? He couldn't focus on any of his questions as he felt the smoothness of leather underneath him and the roaring of an engine. They were in a car now, that much he could figure out. He had no idea the palace even had cars. Where were they stored? Were they used often? What-

"Stay awake, Your Highness."

Wonwoo's low voice startled Seokmin out of his thoughts. He blinked a couple of times, his eyes heavy and eyesight blurry. He could just barely make out his attendant's concerned features from the rearview mirror. His red eyes were glowing, and for the first time, Seokmin realized just how pretty he was, not as pretty as Jeonghan, but still he-

"Seokmin!"

Wonwoo's voice startled him once more. He was barely lucid enough to realize that Wonwoo had dropped his title and called him by his first name. He honestly didn't care. He wished the other would call his name more. They were friends, weren't they? Didn't friends call each other by their names? Didn't they....he couldn't think anymore as another wave of pain, hotter and more intense, hit him. He could only manage a whimper as his eyes squeezed shut. He could barely hear Wonwoo curse over the ringing in his ears.

When Seokmin came to once more, he was no longer in the car. He was on silk sheets that felt cold and smooth underneath his skin. For one second, he assumed he was home, in the palace. That was home now. No longer that small house his large family had crammed themselves into. Perhaps that was never home. Perhaps-

"You're awake."

Seokmin startled at the deep voice breaking him out of his thoughts. He went to sit up, but forwent the idea when a dull aching pain from his stomach told him not to. His head hit the pillow as he stared up at Wonwoo pitifully.

"Where are we?" He asked, voice quiet and hoarse.

He had deduced they weren't home. The walls were white and unfamiliar. The place smelled as if it had sat unused for years. Nothing around him was familiar. Wonwoo carefully sat himself on the bed as he helped Seokmin sit up, the other only wincing in pain once.

"A safe house. Many have been set up in events such as these. No one will find us here." The attendant carefully explained. He handed him a glass full of deep red liquid.

"Drink. It'll help with the pain."

Seokmin took careful sips. The blood was colder than he was used to, but it was enough to stop the painful ache his new hunger brought. A thought crossed his mind.

"Where did this come from?"

"Underground storage. There is a small supply of blood stored down there in case His Majesty ever had to hide out here. The blood has been chilled to keep it from expiring." Wonwoo explained.

So they wouldn't starve to death as they hid out here. That was nice to know. Seokmin carefully finished the glass, going slowly so as not to make himself sick. Wonwoo watched Seokmin carefully as if contemplating.

"Do you remember what happened?"

Seokmin went through his memories. He met Jeonghan in his office. They had discussed Seungkwan in the garden and slept together. The next thing he knew, he was being stabbed and carried out while Jeonghan fought the intruder. Jeonghan. Seokmin's eyes went wide as the strings of his bond painfully tugged at him, causing a pain worse than the one he felt in his abdomen. He winced, and Wonwoo was quick to soothe him.

"Your Majesty, are you alright? Do you need to lie back down?"

After a few slow breaths, Seokmin waved him off. "I'm okay. I just..." He took another breath. Thinking about Jeonghan right now was too painful. He had no idea he could miss someone so much. He had no idea how painful it could be.

"I remember what happened." He confirmed. "I was stabbed by what I assume is an assassin?"

Wonwoo nodded. "It was bad. It still is. The blade that was used to stab you contained elements that are essentially dangerous to vampires."

"How do you know?"

Wonwoo wouldn't meet his eyes. "I had to suck the poison out of you." He admitted quietly.

That was when Seokmin felt it, the throbbing in his wrist. He looked down to see two deep puncture marks near his veins. He frowned as he looked back up at his attendant, his friend. His eyes had dark circles under them and seemed to glaze over a little. His skin was a sickly pale that had nothing to do with his supernatural nature. He was sick because of Seokmin.

"Are..." Seokmin swallowed hard, noticing just how difficult that was to do. "Are you alright?"

"Quite," Wonwoo answered, a bit too quickly for Seokmin's liking. His frown deepened.

"Please don't lie to me. I care for you, you know."

"I know," Wonwoo answered, his voice barely a whisper.

The emotions sent a light tug on their bond, and Seokmin, despite himself, let out a small smile. He could feel how Wonwoo felt, but he wanted, no, needed, him to say it.

"Transferred poison is less harmful. It will take a day or two to completely leave my system, but I will be alright." He reassured. "It's nothing I can't handle."

"I can't believe you did that for me," Seokmin whispered.

"I would do anything for you, Your Majesty." Was Wonwoo's instant reply.

He couldn't understand it. Why him? Why did Jeonghan choose him? Why did he love him so? Why was Wonwoo so loyal to him? Why? Why? Why? Another tug to his bond had his thoughts stopping once more. The tug belonged to Wonwoo. He met the other's red eyes once more.

"Because we love you." Was his reply. "I know there are things you won't even begin to understand, but it starts with us loving you. Of course, the way I do and the way His Majesty does is different, but it's love. Sometimes, there isn't a reason to love. It just is."

Seokmin was close to tears as a rather painful tug to his and Jeonghan's bond had him doubling over. He let out a pained sound, and Wonwoo was quick to comfort him.

"I miss him." He admitted. "Why is the pain so strong?"

"Your bond runs deeper and stronger than any other. It's unique and one of a kind. You're stronger together and worse off apart." He explained. "Our bond is strong, but it is nowhere near the same. It will hurt until you see him again."

Another tug. Was Jeonghan just as miserable as he was?

Jeonghan was beyond miserable. The strings of his bond were painfully cutting into him as adrenaline swept through him. He couldn't shake the image of Seokmin's bleeding form out of his head. He couldn't stop replaying his husband's whimpers of pain as he yelled hyung.

Hyung.

Jeonghan had never been called hyung before. It was always a proper title, but coming from Seokmin, it felt so wonderful. It felt so right. He wanted to hear him say it over and over again. He squeezed his eyes shut for just a moment, willing himself to send a message to his husband through their bond. He was alright, everything was going to be fine. He would take care of it. All Seokmin had to do was get better. He opened his eyes, and his entire demeanor changed as he opened the door to the dungeon. Jisoo was already there waiting with the assassin they kept alive. They had killed everyone else, but they still needed one for information and revenge. He wouldn't get away with stabbing Seokmin. Jeonghan would make sure of that.

"Jisoo-yah," Jeonghan started, never taking his eyes off the man. "Start with his left hand. That's his dominant one."

Jisoo nodded as he drew his sword. The man's eyes widened as the other neared him. He looked back at the king. "What the hell are you doing?"

"You touched something that wasn't yours," Jeonghan replied calmly. "There's a price to pay."

He held out a hand, and Jisoo paused, awaiting orders. "Perhaps you would like to answer some questions first, hmm?"

Thinking it would save him and his fingers, the man gave in. "Who are you?" Jeonghan started.

"We are not given names. We just are."

Jeonghan's eyes narrowed. "Who sent you?"

"You know who sent me."

Jeonghan did know, and his jaw clenched as he nodded. "And you're thousands, aren't you?"

"Perhaps."

"Right." He turned back to his right-hand man. "Alright, Jisoo. You may proceed."

The man sputtered in panic as Jisoo neared him and raised his sword. He pleaded with him, but the pleas fell onto deaf ears as the sword came down in one swift motion, successfully removing all five fingers. The man screamed as he watched his fingers hit the concrete.

"What the fuck is this? I told you what I know!"

"You did," Jeonghan confirmed. "But I never said that would save you. You hurt someone important to me. You deserve to be punished."

The man was starting to turn a sickly gray, but he still had enough energy to sneer. "All this for a little bitch? You're weaker than they say. I should have finished the job."

Jeonghan's expression turned darker, more dangerous, but his entire demeanor was composed as he took a step forward. He grabbed the man's chin and forced him to look at him.

"And to believe I was going to show you a bit of mercy."

With one shift snap, Jeonghan took the man's jaw off. The vampire threw it to the side as he watched the man choke on his own blood before eventually dying. Jeonghan glared at the corpse for several seconds before looking back at Jisoo.

"We have work to do and quickly. I want my husband home."

Chapter Text

The days passed by agonizingly slow in the safe house. Seokmin could often be found by the window, searching for any message or sign from the palace. He could feel it in his bond that Jeonghan was physically alright, but the harsh tugs let him know that his husband was hurting emotionally and longed for him just as he did for him. He hoped his tugs were sending the same message. It was lonely to sleep without Jeonghan's cold, strong arms holding his waist, muttering sweet nothings into his ear as he slept. He wanted his husband back more than anything. He had no idea he could miss someone this much.

By the fourth day of moping, he decided he had had enough. His stab wound had healed thanks to Wonwoo, and he could move around without much pain. He needed to do something. He looked over at his attendant, who was busying himself with the fireplace. As he told Seokmin, the poison had left his system within two days, and he regained his vigor and strength, but Seokmin could see it Wonwoo was just as restless as he was. He was used to fighting or having something to do. He wasn't made to just sit around and wait.

"Teach me how to fight." He suddenly demanded.

It wasn't a question. It was a demand. The first real demand Seokmin had actually made. He didn't want to watch everyone fight for him, especially not Jeonghan or Wonwoo. He was tired of watching them get hurt in place of him. He loved them and wanted to protect them the same as they did him. He just needed to know how. Wonwoo looked away from the fireplace and stared the royal down.

"That is not needed of you. I will protect you."

"Then who will protect you?" Seokmin instantly replied. He stood from his perch and crossed the room until he was mere meters from the other.

"I am your sire, Wonwoo. I am meant to protect you just the same as you protect me. Let me have that. Teach me how to fight,"

He was practically pleading now, but he didn't care. He needed this more than anything. Wonwoo's red eyes searched his. Perhaps he saw the desperation, or maybe he felt in their bond as he finally sighed.

"Okay, I will teach you."

He led him to a garden outside. It was spacious with healthy grass, flowers, and large trees, giving plenty of shade. It was surrounded by a tall wall, leaving them hidden from the outside world. It was the perfect place to practice. Seokmin stood patiently waiting for instructions as Wonwoo eyed him.

"Hit me." He demanded finally.

Seokmin was taken aback. "What?"

"Hit me," Wonwoo repeated. "I want to see how you fight."

Seokmin was uncertain, but trusted the other. He lunged forward with his left foot, swinging his right fist back. As his fist inched closer to Wonwoo's face, the other took it and easily twisted his arm behind his back, his military experience and vampiric strength working in his favor. He found his back up against the attendant's chest as he felt the other's breath tickling his ear.

"It is a good start, but you are too predictable. It makes you sloppy."

Seokmin nodded as he thought for a moment. While the other was distracted by telling him what he did wrong, he twisted his upper body to the left, giving him the upper hand to free himself and push Wonwoo away from him. The attendant was momentarily stunned before he softly smiled.

"You're getting it." He praised.

They passed their days like that. They would spar in the garden until Seokmin could beat Wonwoo without hesitation. They fought with their fists and with swords stored away in a secret compartment. Seokmin learned well from Wonwoo, concentrating all his frustration, anger, and pain into fighting. He finally felt like he was doing something useful. On the fourth day of this, Wonwoo forced him to take a break. Seokmin was reluctant, but knew it was needed. His wound had healed, but he was still recovering. The last few days had taken a lot out of him, not to mention how emotionally exhausted his bond made him.

He spent the free day walking around the garden, making sure to stay beneath the shade whenever the sun was high in the sky. He admired the flowers. They weren't as nice or lovely as the ones he had come to love at the palace, but they were beautiful in their own right. They were something pleasant to look at when the rest of his world seemed so dreary. As he finished checking petals and soil, he stood, ready to head back inside to converse with Wonwoo, when he heard a twig snapping in the distance. He froze, staring in the direction he heard the noise. Wonwoo had reassured him they were safe here. No one knew of this safe house. It was hidden from sight. No one could find them here, but then he heard another sound, and before he could process what was happening, a masked figure was before him. Seokmin took a careful step back, ready to reach under the bench for the sword Wonwoo kept out there for emergencies. Seokmin had playfully scoffed at him at the time, but now he was filled with gratitude. With fast precision, he reached for the sword and had it held against the stranger's throat.

"Speak." He demanded. "Who are you? How did you find me here? No one is supposed to be able to find this place."

He could see the stranger's curious but determined gaze from behind the mask. "I can find anyone I want. It's not difficult for me."

Seokmin's eyes narrowed, and his grip on the sword tightened. "Who sent you? Why are you looking for me?"

If it was another assassin sent to finish the job, Seokmin wasn't going to go easily. He wouldn't let Wonwoo's protection and teaching pass in vain. He wouldn't let Jeonghan's love be in vain. He was going to fight to keep his new life.

"You helped a boy in the royal garden. You showed him unwavering kindness when you easily could have had him killed." The man stated, his voice thick with emotion.

Seokmin faltered in just the slightest, but he wouldn't let his guard down. Not just yet. "Seungkwan? You know Seungkwan? Is he alright?" He gulped. "Is he alive?"

"Yes, thanks to you."

Suddenly, the man removed his mask, revealing a tanned and handsome face. He was tall, but years of malnutrition had a way of showing on his body. This had to be the friend Seungkwan was providing for. Seokmin lowered his sword.

"You, you're the friend."

The man nodded. "My name is Kim Mingyu."

Within an instant, he was on his knees with his head hung low. Seokmin was startled, not used to such a display, and kneeled along with him, sword on the ground next to him.

"Forgive me, Your Highness, for my impolite nature and for startling you. I had to make sure it was you, and I had to know if your kindness was true. It seems it knows no bounds. We owe our lives to you. Please tell me how I could repay you in this lifetime."

The door to the garden opened, and Wonwoo peeked his head out. He eyed the two figures kneeling in the grass and looked to Seokmin with curiosity and slight concern.

"Your Majesty, is everything alright?"

Seokmin smiled, rivaling the sun they were shaded from. "Quite! I believe I have made a friend."

Mingyu's head snapped up at Seokmin's words. "Friend?"

Seokmin nodded, standing and helping the other to his feet as well. "Yes, I would like to be friends."

He turned back to Wonwoo. "Wonwoo, we should invite Mingyu inside. He managed to find me all the way out here."

Wonwoo instantly understood as he opened the door wider for both of them. Seokmin led Mingyu to the table and encouraged him to sit as Wonwoo poured them tea. Mingyu watched them warily and didn't touch the tea. Seokmin couldn't say he blamed him. He made a show of drinking it first, trying his hardest not to react at the blandness he tasted. He desperately wanted blood, but they were beginning to run low, and it wasn't acceptable to consume in front of their human guest. He was sure Mingyu was already scared without having vampires add to it. Mingyu relaxed a bit seeing Seokmin drink, and he took a small sip of tea, the corners of his mouth upturning in just the slightest. It was progress, Seokmin noted.

"Sorry, I cannot offer you anything to eat." Wonwoo apologized. "We hadn't planned on being here this long."

Mingyu nodded as Seokmin carefully watched him, assessing. "How did you find me? This is a royal safe house."

Mingyu suddenly seemed nervous as he shrugged and tugged at his fingers. "It's just something I can do. I can track whoever I want."

Wonwoo and Seokmin shared a look, each of them understanding the other's thoughts. "Anyone?"

Mingyu, still with his head down, nodded. For the first time in days, Seokmin began to feel hopeful. They sent Mingyu on his way after he gave them a way to contact him when they needed to. The next morning, they received word they could return to the palace. Seokmin all but dove into the car, eager to see his husband again after so long and to give him wonderful news. Wonwoo was even in good spirits as he drove them back to the palace.

Seokmin took a deep breath as he entered the palace. He felt himself relax bit by bit as he took in the familiar scents and sights he now associated with home. However, he wasn't settled until he saw Jeonghan before him. The king stood tall and radiant as always, but the pain and exhaustion were clear in his expression. Their bond tugged at them, and the iron grip that had been around their hearts for days had released as they stared at one another.

Not caring about etiquette and decorum, Seokmin ran straight for his husband, Jeonghan, easily catching him. He took a deep breath as Jeonghan released his. He was finally where he belonged. He was home. He wrapped himself tighter around Jeonghan, breathing in the comforting scent he loved, before he reluctantly pulled away. He took in the other's appearance, making sure he wasn't hurt.

"Are you okay?" He whispered.

Jeonghan brushed hair out of Seokmin's face. "I am supposed to ask you that."

Seokmin softly smiled at him. "I am healed, thanks to Wonwoo. Despite my being his sire, he cares for me."

Jeonghan matched his smile. "You're easy to love and care for."

He tugged his husband into his arms once more, happy to finally have him where he belonged. His eyes met Wonwoo's from across the room. He nodded once, the attendant understanding it for the thank you that it was. As everyone in the palace knew, Seokmin mattered most of all. Jeonghan pulled Seokmin away from the others. They had catching up to do.

Chapter Text

The king and his husband were not seen for an entire day after Seokmin and Wonwoo safely returned home. A notice, more of a warning, was spread throughout the palace. No one was to disturb the king and his husband under any circumstances unless there was a fire or the world was ending. The staff made themselves scarce, tending to other matters as they knew how Jeonghan's temper could be if disobeyed. Jeonghan and Seokmin remained in the king's chambers for the entire morning, wrapped up in one another, to heal their bond that had ached so much in their time apart. Jeonghan's hands had not left Seokmin's skin. He always found a way to touch him, afraid his husband would slip through his fingers once more.

"My love, I've missed you." Jeonghan breathed out against Seokmin's bare chest.

It was the hundredth time he was saying it, but Seokmin never tired of hearing it. In fact, he needed to continue hearing it. Needed to know that he was loved and needed. He let out a soft exhale.

"I missed you. So so much." Seokmin responded, a lump growing in the back of his throat. He couldn't forget the pain of being away from Jeonghan. The way it tore through him and the way it constantly ached. He swore it was going to kill him again.

Jeonghan began leaving open-mouthed kisses along Seokmin's chest, drawing out tiny moans from the other. Seokmin could feel the king smile as he continued kissing, moving lower and lower each time. However, he stopped just short of the middle of Seokmin's abdomen. The younger didn't have to ask what happened. He knew. Jeonghan was looking at his scar. It had healed quite well thanks to Wonwoo and his quick thinking, but it left quite a nasty scar in its wake. Wonwoo had explained that it was due to the type of sword and dark magic that was used. It was poisonous to vampires and left harm behind. Seokmin hadn't thought of it much as Wonwoo was usually the one to dress him, but now, with his husband staring directly at it, he felt self-conscious. He tried to squirm away, to hide his body with the silk covers, but his husband was faster and stronger. He pinned Seokmin to the mattress, looking at him sternly but lovingly.

"Don't move." He ordered.

Seokmin was practically helpless as his husband's lips ghosted over the scar, eliciting a gasp from him at the tender action. Jeonghan left a few more kisses along the scar before meeting Seokmin's eyes once more.

"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry." He apologized.

"Hyung," Seokmin whispered, voice wet with unspoken admiration and emotion.

Jeonghan's eyes were shining. "Please never stop calling me Hyung."

Seokmin could only nod. He didn't know why he started referring to Jeonghan as hyung, but it felt right. Now that he knew that Jeonghan liked hearing it as much as Seokmin liked saying it, he didn't plan to stop. They spent a few more hours like that, shared breaths, deep kisses, and lingering caresses. However, they knew they couldn't stay in there forever, no matter how much they desired to. They still had a kingdom they were responsible for, and they promised to serve it well. They would just have to make the best of what was left of their free day.

Once dressed, Jeonghan took Seokmin by the hand and led him out of their bedroom and around the palace. Seokmin was surprised to find they had stopped at the kitchen. His husband, noticing his expression, winked.

"I could practically feel your hunger, Darling." He teased.

Seokmin blinked at him. "We're not going to the dungeon?" He questioned.

While they partook in blood meals often, they both preferred blood straight from the source or through drainage. The only time they really ate blood dinners was when Seokmin didn't feel like going to the dungeon or they had guests. Jeonghan rarely ever entered the kitchen himself.

Jeonghan's expression didn't change as he stared evenly at Seokmin. "Do you want to go to the dungeon?"

Seokmin thought about it for a second before shaking his head. He didn't want to go to the dungeon today. It smelled horrible, and he wasn't particularly fond of ruining his nice day with his husband to stare at a pathetic criminal. Whatever Jeonghan had in mind would be better. The king smiled as Mrs. Park arrived in the kitchen. She bowed in greeting.

"How may I serve Your Majesties?"

"Is there any possible way to pack some blood meals for a picnic?"

Mrs. Park, despite being human, merely smiled and nodded. Many of the staff had been briefed on the true nature of the king, his husband, and a few of the residents. Mrs. Park was one of them. She provided them with the best blood meals, learning through trial and error over the years. Jeonghan trusted and respected her, while Seokmin admired her. Ever since he arrived at the castle and stole a piece of bread, he had felt a type of kinship toward the woman. The first positive female influence he had in his life, other than his cousin.

Within an hour, Seokmin and Jeonghan were sent off with a picnic basket full of food. Jeonghan thanked her and held the basket with his free hand as he led Seokmin to the garden. They detached their hands, the king setting up the picnic while the other went through his routine of greeting the flowers. They were in full bloom, and he praised each of them for their bright colors and impressive petals. He moved further into the garden and stopped in place when he took in the sight before him. A wide enclosure took up the middle of the grass. As promised, Jeonghan had a team build an enclosure for Bomi. It resembled a house, nicer than his own had been. It was large, giving her plenty of room to hop around. Seokmin was endeared as he approached it. He found the rabbit sitting inside, looking cozy and content.

"Hi Bomi," He greeted, sticking his index finger out in greeting.

Her nose twitched against his finger, and he smiled. "Are you enjoying your new house?" He asked. "It's pretty. Just like you."

"Seokmin-ah! Come eat!" Jeonghan yelled from the other side of the garden.

"Coming!"

He gave Bomi another look. "Enjoy your house, Bomi!"

He joined Jeonghan under the camphor tree. The king had laid out all the food and organized it. Seokmin quickly joined his husband. They ate together, enjoying the peace and beauty of the garden. For a moment, they almost felt like a normal couple, no vampires, no royalty, just them. After eating, they strolled around the palace. There were still many rooms and areas that Seokmin had yet to discover.

"I designed a couple of the rooms," Jeonghan informed him.

"Really?"

Jeonghan nodded. "There was a lull for a few years, and I wanted to do something, so I designed a couple of rooms and had them built." He pushed open a door.

"This is one of them."

Seokmin's brain couldn't comprehend what he was seeing at first. He almost swore he was floating, but he wasn't. Rather, the furniture was nailed firmly to the ceiling while light fixtures stood on the floor. The entire room was upside down. His husband had a small smirk as he shrugged.

"I thought it would be funny. Of course, I had to reassure many people that witchcraft wasn't involved, but it was worth it." He sighed with a shake of his head. "Monsters of the blood they could accept, but not an upside-down room."

Seokmin let out a snort, and he immediately covered his mouth in horror. Jeonghan gently took his hands away from his mouth before pecking his lips.

"Cute." He murmured against them.

They continued their tour, Seokmin amazed by his husband's creativity and mischievous nature. As they moved down a particularly long hallway, Seokmin took in the paintings hanging on the wall. Most of them were of the royal family over the years, but one gave Seokmin pause. It was older and had just one person in it. It wasn't Jeonghan, even though he resembled him in the slightest. He couldn't have been older than nineteen or so. He looked so young but so serious. Jeonghan noticed his husband lingering, and he joined him to see what he was looking at.

"That's Yoon Sang," Jeonghan told him. "My only son. I adored him with everything in me. He served this kingdom well."

Jeonghan had a certain twinkle in his eye as he continued looking at the painting. Seokmin watched him with intrigue and fondness. It was clear Jeonghan had a lot of love, and he always gave it well.

"Watching Sang grow old and die was the only time I felt that this life was truly a curse. It was when I understood just how my maker was punishing me." He whispered.

"I still miss him sometimes despite how many centuries have passed."

Neither of them said anything as they continued looking at the painting. For the first time, Seokmin finally felt he was seeing a newer, more real version of his husband, and it frightened him how much more he was falling for him.

Chapter Text

The palace ran as usual the next morning, and Jeonghan had royal duties to attend to once more. Seokmin tried not to feel disheartened when Jisoo approached them. He knew Jeonghan had responsibilities greater than him. Past him would have been horrified to find that he always wanted to be by the king's side, but he couldn't help it. In some derranged way, Jeonghan had saved him. His life would have been worse if he had escaped and returned home. Perhaps there was some toxicity to their love. Perhaps Seokmin was experiencing Stockholm Syndrome, but Jeonghan had given him a choice, and he took it. He was as much to blame. It wasn't like this new life was bad. He was more loved and cared for than he had ever been in his life. All it took was practically dying to achieve it.

"Your Highness, the meeting is about to commence," Jisoo announced.

Jeonghan hummed. "Alright. I will be there."

Satisfied, Jisoo bowed before leaving the room once more. Seokmin sighed inwardly. It was going to be another long day without his husband. How would he bide his time today? Perhaps he could check on Bomi and feed her, despite Jeonghan hiring a team to care for her specifically. Maybe he would find Wonwoo and ask if he had free time to spar with him. Maybe he could explore the palace more, or-

"Come on, Love. The people wait."

Seokmin blinked. "What?"

Jeonghan stood in front of him, hand outstretched. "Let's go to the meeting."

Seokmin stared at his husband's hand incredulously. He had never attended any of the royal duties. He assumed none of it was his concern, knowing Jeonghan had secretly run the kingdom for centuries. Besides, he had been relieved for it. He had no idea how any of it worked. He would hate to embarrass himself, or worse, Jeonghan. The king, however, didn't seem to share the same sentiment as he took Seokmin's hand and pulled him up easily with strength that could only come with being a vampire. As they walked, Jeonghan spoke once more.

"Remember when I had you speak with the people at the ball?" He asked.

Seokmin nodded, remembering it quite well, despite trying to block most of that night out of his mind. He still couldn't rid himself of the image of his mother's indifferent face. He feared it would haunt him for a period. As if Jeonghan knew what he was thinking, he gently squeezed his hand once, as reassurance.

"I did not ask you to do that to keep you busy. As King Consort, you have a responsibility to this kingdom as well. You are its face and its voice alongside me, but you are also its ears. A kingdom cannot run without people. It is our job to listen and serve the people as well. I want to know about their concerns." He explained.

Seokmin began to relax. He could handle that. He had listened to many people that night and shared many of their concerns. However, his anxiety returned when they entered the large room and he took in the number of strangers before him as they bowed in greeting. There were men and women ranging in age from thirty to seventy. They all had an air of importance and elegance about them, and despite what Jeonghan told him, Seokmin felt he didn't belong there, even more so when the king pulled him to sit at the head of the table with him. One man in particular would not look away from Seokmin. He was older-looking, perhaps near fifty. He eyed Seokmin, as if he knew that he didn't belong. He had to resist the urge to squirm, but he did shift uncomfortably in place, an action that didn't go unnoticed by Jeonghan. The king set a firm hand on his thigh as he glared at the man making his husband uncomfortable.

"Is there a problem, Lord Lim?"

The lord seemed to become nervous but dared to answer. "Your Majesty, forgive me for being impolite, but are you sure your husband should be here?"

Seokmin gulped. He knew it. He didn't belong here, but as usual, Jeonghan didn't agree. He simply cocked an eyebrow.

"Do tell me why you think my husband should not be here?" He challenged.

The man cleared his throat, growing more nervous. Seokmin could hear his unsteady heartbeat beginning to race. Yet, once more, he dared to provide an answer.

"He is an outsider and has no experience in how a kingdom is run."

"Correct. He is an outsider. He knows what it is like to live outside the safety of these palace walls." He argued. "Even if that were not the cause, he is the king consort of Ardmendia. Upon marrying me, he took responsibility for this kingdom. We share a name, a heart, a soul. Saying he doesn't belong here is akin to saying I don't." He leaned forward. "Do I not belong here, Lord Lim?"

The lord squirmed, and it was satisfying to see. Seokmin could admit that much. It pleased him to see how the man was now as uncomfortable as he had made him, just as Jeonghan had intended.

"Many apologies, Your Majesties. That was rude of me. I have seen the error of my thinking. I humbly ask for your forgiveness."

Jeonghan looked to Seokmin, who awkwardly nodded, confirming that he accepted the apology. The king hummed, not saying anything, as he nodded his head as well and started the meeting. Taxes were the first topic of discussion, and Seokmin tried to pay attention and follow along, he really did, but he found himself tuning out, letting his thoughts roam until his attention was called back by the discussion of tightened palace security.

"What happened to my husband cannot happen again," Jeonghan stated seriously.

"I have had the Ministry of Defence switch out guards who are better trained and prepared. The low-level guards who harassed a citizen in the palace garden have been fired as well."

Seokmin was relieved at the news. He hated to see those guards bully Seungkwan. He hated how they treated him just because he was poor. He was thankful and pleased to see that something had been done.

"Seokmin, can you please recall the concerns the citizens have?" The king asked softly.

Seokmin sat straighter. "In Southern and Northern Ardmendia, food prices have risen by ten percent, which may not seem like a tremendous lot here in the capital, but in the north, it's practically famine. Northern Ardmendia has the highest unemployment rate due to the rural area and lack of transportation to other areas. They cannot afford to live with a ten percent increase. " He began.

He could see Jeonghan intently listening to him as Jisoo frantically wrote next to Jeonghan, taking diligent notes. Seokmin continued.

"It is nearly the same for Southern Ardmendia, where I am from. There are a few more job opportunities, but not many. Food is hard to come by, and there is no public transportation around the cities. The nearest hospital is at least an hour away by car, which many citizens do not have. If someone does manage to make it there, many are turned away if there is no cash paid upfront. It's disheartening, and many die before their time, leaving behind family members who cannot fend for themselves."

Jeonghan nodded along, even wearing a frown. When he noticed that Seokmin was finished, he turned back to the others around the table.

"I want to hear and see solutions to these problems by the next meeting." He ordered. "You are all dismissed."

As the other scurried out of the room, Jeonghan turned to Seokmin once more. "You did well, Love. I'm proud of you." He praised. "We will take care of this and fix it." He promised.

Seokmin preened, thankful he could be of help. Jisoo leaned over, interrupting them. "Pardon my intrusion, but your presence is needed elsewhere." He told Jeonghan.

Jeonghan sighed, but kissed his husband's forehead. "Stay safe. I'll be back before you know it."

Seokmin watched Jisoo and Jeonghan leave before getting up. Now what was he to do? Perhaps he could go see Bomi and check on the flowers. However, before he could make it out to the garden, he was stopped by his attendant. Seokmin brightened upon seeing him, their shared bond tingling.

"Wonwoo!"

Wonwoo bowed in greeting. "Your Majesty, Kim Mingyu is here." He announced.

Seokmin perked up. He had asked Wonwoo last night to contact Mingyu and have him come to the palace. He was pleased by how fast his attendant had been, although, when it came to Wonwoo, he expected nothing less.

"Wonderful. Where is he?"

"I have him waiting by the front entrance. I drove him here myself." He informed.

Seokmin's smile widened as he pinched Wonwoo's cheek, delighted to find the other vampire to be embarrassed.

"You are truly a lifesaver, Wonwoo. I don't know what I would do without you."

"You will never have to find out," Wonwoo answered sincerely as he led Seokmin to Mingyu.

As they approached, Seokmin was surprised and delighted to find that not only was Mingyu there, but Seungkwan was as well. He looked a bit healthier and brighter than the last time they saw each other, and it put Seokmin's still heart at ease. He approached the human and grabbed his hands before the other could even think about bowing.

"Seungkwan, I am beyond delighted to see you. Have you been well?"

Seungkwan managed to bow despite Seokmin's hold on him. "Yes, thanks to Your Majesty's vast kindness." He answered.

Seokmin shook his head with a strained but still genuine smile. "I know what it is like, and I cannot watch someone else suffer like I have."

Seungkwan didn't reply, but Seokmin could see the well of tears in his eyes, threatening to fall. It made a lump grow in the back of his throat. A small tug of his bond, and Wonwoo's hand was on his shoulder, grounding him. He took a deep breath, remembering why he had called Mingyu in the first place. He turned to the other.

"Mingyu-ssi, I need to ask you some questions."

When Mingyu nodded, Seokmin continued. "You said you can find anyone you want. What do you need to do it?"

"A name and a visual of some sort." He replied.

Seokmin felt a twinge of hope grow within him, and he glanced at Wonwoo, knowing his attendant felt the same.

"Wonderful. I have a small favor to ask."

Mingyu was quick to answer. "I will help with anything His Majesty needs."

"Please join me for dinner and meet my husband. He will be pleased to meet you."

Mingyu and Seungkwan visibly paled. Wonwoo and Seokmin could hear and practically feel their rapid heartbeats. They were scared and uncertain. It was understandable, and it was why Seokmin kept his expression kind and welcoming. It seemed to help as the duo shared a look before nodding their agreement. After all, they trusted Seokmin.

"It would be our honor," Seungkwan replied.

As Wonwoo and Seokmin led them through the palace, Seokmin leaned closer to his attendant.

"We had Mrs. Park prepare normal food, right?"

"Yes. I asked her this morning before I went to retrieve them."

Seokmin let out a breath. "Thanks, Won, you're truly the best."

Wonwoo seemed flustered at the nickname but didn't say anything more as they entered the dining room. It was nearing usual dinner time, but Jeonghan and Jisoo were yet to be seen. Seokmin held out hope that they would only be slightly late, and he wouldn't make Mingyu and Seungkwan wait too long. Thankfully, Jisoo and Jeonghan arrived just fifteen minutes later. The king seemed surprised at the new faces looking back at him. As Mingyu and Seungkwan greeted him, Jeonghan looked to his husband.

"To what do I owe the pleasure of such company?"

"I have made friends," Seokmin stated proudly as Jeonghan took his seat next to him. "This is Seungkwan and Mingyu. I do hope it is okay that I invited them to have dinner with us."

"As I have stated before, you are free to do as you wish, Darling. I am pleased you have made friends." He looked at the duo. "Thank you for befriending my husband."

They bowed once more. "The honor is ours," Mingyu replied.

Dinner was served, blood meals for Wonwoo, Jisoo, Jeonghan, and Seokmin, and normal meals for Mingyu and Seungkwan, who looked at the food with wide and disbelieving eyes. Seokmin noticed and swore he could feel his heart break.

"Don't worry if it is too much food. Just eat what you can, and you can take the rest with you." He reassured him.

Seungkwan's eyes were still wide as he looked up. "Really?"

Jeonghan answered this time. "Yes. Please, eat comfortably."

The only sounds were the scraping of silverware against the china. Seokmin was the first to add his voice to it.

"I met Seungkwan in our garden." He revealed.

Jeonghan lit up with realization as he looked at Seungkwan. "You were the one my husband was so worried about. I am pleased to see you are doing well."

Seungkwan blushed. "Thank you, Your Majesty."

Seokmin smiled at the interaction as he continued. "I met Mingyu at the safe house." He stated casually.

The table fell eerily silent. Jisoo and even Jeonghan were stunned while Mingyu and Seungkwan froze in place. Only Seokmin and Wonwoo were unfazed. When the king looked to the attendant, Wonwoo gave him a reassuring nod as Seokmin spoke once more.

"I learned that Mingyu has quite the gift. As long as he knows a person's name and appearance, he can find them."

That caught Jeonghan's attention. He carefully set his silverware down as he eyed Mingyu evenly.

"Anyone? No matter what?" He questioned.

Mingyu squirmed under the king's intense gaze, but answered. "Yes."

A tingle through their shared bond almost made Seokmin jump until he realized what it meant. Jeonghan was pleased, he was excited, and Seokmin had helped make it happen.

Jeonghan's eyes didn't leave Mingyu's. Another tug to their bond, and it took Seokmin a second longer to understand, but when he did, he was delighted. He subtly nodded.

"Mingyu, how would you and Seungkwan like to stay at the palace?"

Chapter Text

Getting Seungkwan and Mingyu acquainted with the palace was a challenge. They kept to themselves and tried to make themselves small in the grand space. Oftentimes, Wonwoo or Seokmin had to go searching for them and reassure them that they didn't need to hide or keep themselves scarce. Mingyu had been placed in the Ministry of Defense under Seungcheol and Wonwoo's care. Seungkwan had yet to be placed, Jeonghan wanting to leave the decision to Seokmin. As Mingyu followed closely behind Seungcheol to attend a meeting, Seungkwan stuck near Seokmin, the only other person he was remotely comfortable with.

"What would you like to do today?" Seokmin asked, trying to keep himself bright and inviting to reassure their newest resident, but a knot of anxiety was resting in the pit of his stomach. He could feel it in both bonds, the one he had with Jeonghan and the one he had with Wonwoo. Having Mingyu and his power here was a big deal and a turning point. Seokmin couldn't piece it together completely, not yet. Not until he was given more information.

"Whatever you would like to do, Your Majesty," Seungkwan replied in a small voice.

Seokmin frowned. "Kwannie, what is it?"

Seungkwan's head snapped up at the nickname, and his eyes had a hopeful glint in them, but it was clear he was keeping himself guarded.

"Why am I here?" He asked, sounding dejected and resigned.

"What do you mean? You're here because I want you to be here." Seokmin answered sincerely, but Seungkwan shook his head.

"You guys want Mingyu because of his power. I was just an afterthought."

Seokmin placed gentle but firm hands on the younger's shoulders. "That isn't it at all. The king has heavy security around this palace. He doesn't let people stay easily. He let you stay because you're special to me. I want you here, Seungkwan."

"But why?" Seungkwan asked, growing frustrated by the minute. "You saw me at my lowest, and you showed me mercy when you shouldn't have. Now, you're giving me a better life, and I don't understand why."

"Because I want to. Can that be enough?"

Seungkwan bit his bottom lip, hard enough to draw blood. The sight didn't affect Seokmin the way he thought it would, and he searched the younger's eyes, trying to get a clue as to what he was thinking. How did Jeonghan do it? How did he see into the minds and hearts of others? Would it be a skill he could possess, or was it for Jeonghan only? For now, he would have to do it the hard way, the human way.

"But what am I to do? What purpose do I serve?"

"Whatever you want to do. I will support you in whatever you want to do."

Tears began to gather in the corner of Seungkwan's eyes, and Seokmin was quick to wipe them away. "What is the reason for all of this?" He whispered, almost brokenly.

Seokmin could understand his feelings. It was how he often felt after marrying Jeonghan. There were still many unanswered questions he had been left with. Why him? What was he to do? Why was he really here, but over time, he found that he didn't really need the answers to those questions. Sometimes, things just were.

"Does there need to be?"

Seungkwan sniffed. "I suppose not. Who am I to question a miracle?"

Seokmin smiled as he slipped his arm through Seungkwan's, connecting them as they walked. "Come on, we have plenty to discuss."

He led him into the library, the one place, other than the garden, he felt most at peace. It was a room he often found Wonwoo in, too, whenever he wasn't busy. Seungkwan seemed to appreciate and relax with the quiet surrounding them as Seokmin led them to a table.

"Since you are staying here, there are things you need to know." Seokmin began.

Seungkwan sat a little straighter in his seat, ready to listen. Seokmin felt a bit nervous. He had gotten permission from Jeonghan to tell Seungkwan of their true nature, as Wonwoo and Seungcheol were informing Mingyu. They couldn't hide it, nor did they feel it was right to. They deserved to know just who they were living with and entrusting their lives to. Still, it wasn't an easy thing to admit, and he feared his new friend would look at him differently, maybe with disgust or worse, with fear. That was the last thing he wanted.

"Do you know of vampires?" He asked.

Seungkwan blinked a couple of times. "Vampires?" He repeated. "The creatures that feast on blood?"

"Yes."

"Aren't they mythical?"

Now it was Seokmin's turn to be a little stunned. Seungkwan was aware that Mingyu had a sort of power and accepted it, but thought vampires were mythical. That didn't make much sense. Perhaps it was shock.

"No, they aren't," Seokmin answered. "Not in the slightest."

He leaned forward and opened his mouth just enough to let his fangs show. Seungkwan gasped.

"You're a vampire?" He whispered.

"As is the king. He was the one who turned me." He answered. "So are Jisoo and Wonwoo."

Seungkwan looked at him, unblinking. "Are you going to turn me into one?"

"Do you want me to?" Seokmin calmly returned.

"I don't know," Seungkwan replied after several seconds of thoughtful silence.

"Think on it. It's a big decision, but I meant it when I said I would support you in anything you wanted to do."

Finally, Seungkwan smiled. "I think I'm starting to believe that."

Their moment was interrupted by Wonwoo entering the library. He headed straight for Seokmin with a small bow and a light tingle to their bond.

"Your Majesty, the king has requested your and Seungkwan-ssi's presence in the current meeting." He announced.

Seokmin nodded once as a way of saying that he understood. He and Seungkwan followed the attendant to a large conference room. As expected, Jeonghan, Jisoo, and Seungcheol were already sitting, waiting, but the appearance of two others was unexpected. Seokmin briefly recognized them as the two nationals from China, Junhui and Minghao. Jeonghan said they had the same maker. This meeting was more serious than he originally thought. He took his rightful place next to his husband while Seungkwan sat in the empty seat next to Mingyu. Jeonghan leaned toward Seokmin.

"Did you tell him?" He whispered.

"I did."

That was enough for Jeonghan as he stood and started the meeting. "Lee Kang. Lee Kang is an ancient vampire and a criminal. He murdered my family and turned me against my will, and did the same to two others, Minghao and Junhui. We have hunted him for centuries, but he always finds a way to slip through the cracks, but now, there is hope thanks to Mingyu-sii. Mingyu can find anyone, no matter where they are. He has located Lee Kang on a small island east of Ardmendia. We will get him." He stated with determination.

Plans on how to continue were made, as well as arrangements for Junhui and Minghao to stay at the palace until it was over. Before Seokmin could process what was happening, the meeting was dismissed, and they were the only two left in the room. He hadn't expected the meeting to be so short, but when he saw and felt how exhausted Jeonghan was, he understood. He moved from his seat and gently planted himself in his husband's lap. Jeonghan's arms instantly wound around his waist, holding him close. He inhaled deeply against Seokmin's shoulder, sending a shiver down the younger's spine.

"Maybe I will finally have the answer as to why I am being punished," Jeonhan muttered softly.

"What if there isn't an answer?" Seokmin asked carefully.

"Then at least I will finally know."

He left a kiss on Seokmin's shoulder before lifting his head to meet his eyes. "I have set all of this into motion, and I am so close to finally getting him after all this time." His gaze turned solemn. "I just hope you can find it within you to forgive me someday."

Seokmin was confused as he brushed Jeonghan's long hair back. "For what?"

He could feel Jeonghan's arms briefly tighten around his waist. "I needed to get Lee Kang's attention. I needed to commit a crime and send him after me. One of the greatest crimes a vampire can commit is to spill the blood of the innocent. When I saw Shin Danmi, I knew. I knew she would be the one to set everything into motion, but she didn't deserve to die the way she had. To this day, her blood still stings my tongue, lighting it afire for my crime."

Seokmin slipped out of Jeonghan's hold, tears falling down his face as he thought of his cousin. So young, so kind, so innocent. Jeonghan was right. She hadn't deserved the way she had died. She still had a life to live. She could have done great things if only her life hadn't been stolen from her. He looked at Jeonghan sadly.

"And me?" He questioned. "What part do I play in this? Am I something fun for you?"

Jeonghan stood, his eyes reflecting pain. The rest of him was calm as he approached his husband.

"No." He answered firmly. "You were never part of the plan. I was going to send you back home, but I read your heart, saw how it mirrored mine, and I wanted you to stay. I needed you to stay. I hoped you would stay."

Seokmin was breathless at the desperation in the king's dark eyes. "I never planned to fall in love with you, Seokmin, but I will never regret that I did. I just regret what I took from you."

"I want to hate you," Seokmin whispered. "But it is of no use. I love you so. In many ways, you are my savior. You have dammed our souls and tied us to hell, but I wouldn't wish for a different fate."

He pressed against Jeonghan and met his lips in a kiss full of so much emotion and pain that it nearly brought Jeonghan to tears. He pulled away, cradling the king's face in his hand.

"I forgive you." He whispered. Because it's all I know."

Their bond seared hot, both of them wincing in pain, but Jeonghan recovered faster. "Why don't you go rest, Love? It's been a long day."

Seokmin slowly nodded, pulling away from his husband, ignoring the painful tug in their bond. "I will be in the garden."

He left the room with a clouded mind and a painful chest. He wanted nothing more than to go back to Jeonghan, kiss him until the pain subsided, but he knew they needed a moment apart after their talk. He found Seungkwan with Bomi in the garden, feeding her a carrot. Seungkwan went to greet him but stopped when he took in the royal's distraught expression and red-rimmed eyes.

"Your Majesty, are you alright?"

Seokmin tried to smile to reassure him, but it was clear that it was strained. "Yeah, it's just been a long day."

It was clear Seungkwan wanted to ask more questions, but he didn't, letting Seokmin sit next to him as they directed their attention to the white rabbit, who was more than happy to receive it. Seokmin let his thoughts drift back to Jeonghan. He wasn't even angry with him. In some sick way, he understood his husband's actions. He could feel the burn of regret in their bond. He knew deep down that no matter what Jeonghan did, he would always love him, perhaps that scared him as much as it excited him. He was Jeonghan's forever, and perhaps he was at peace with that.

That night in bed, he let Jeonghan kiss him until he was breathless. He let his lips roam all over his body. He let his hands wrap around him, hold onto him like a precious jewel. He let him adore him. He let him apologize until the words sounded surreal, because this was who they were. This was what they knew. This was what they had chosen and vowed to honor and protect. This was how they loved.

Chapter Text

Despite the confession from the day before, nothing had shifted. Jeonghan and Seokmin's bond remained strong even under the strain. Seokmin wasn't angry and was delighted to wake up next to the king like always. Jeonghan fluttered open his eyes, a sleepy smile spread across his face as he took in his husband's face. He pecked his nose. 

"Always pretty." He murmured. 

Seokmin sleepily blinked up at him. "You, you're pretty." He muttered. 

Jeonghan tugged him closer for a second, enjoying these small moments. "I would love nothing more than to stay here and admire just how pretty you are, and show you over and over again how much I adore you, but duty calls." He sighed, sounding resigned as he carefully sat up. 

Seokmin sat up as well a second later. "What is happening today?" He asked carefully, knowing that most everything revolved around Lee Kang and his capture now. 

"Strategizing, and I need to check in with the Ministry of Defence to see how Mingyu is doing. Seungcheol says he's a fast learner, which is needed in this situation." 

He turned to Seokmin, some of his long hair covering his face. Seokmin was quick to brush it back for him. 

"What about you, Love? How are things going with Seungkwan? Has he decided what he wants to do yet?" 

Seokmin shook his head with a defeated sigh. "He thinks we just want Mingyu because of his power and that he's merely an afterthought. I tried to tell him that wasn't true, but it's clear he doesn't believe me just yet. I'm working on it with him, though. Perhaps we can discuss it today." 

Jeonghan leaned over to give him a tender kiss. "If anyone can do it, it's you, my love." 

Seokmin shyly smiled, watching as Jeonghan got out of bed. On mornings they were together, Jeonghan wouldn't let any servants in, dressing and getting ready on his own. Seokmin loved watching him, how elegantly he moved around despite doing the most mundane things. It was in these moments that Seokmin was reminded that he truly loved Jeonghan, not just by circumstance or obligation. 

"Don't worry too much, Hyung," Seokmin said suddenly. "We will get Lee Kang. I will help in any way that I can." He promised. 

Jeonghan paused, letting his shirt flow past his chest. "I don't want you involved in this, Seokmin." He stated firmly, almost authoritatively. 

Seokmin wasn't startled by the tone but was taken aback as he watched Jeonghan's hands shake as he fixed his shirt. "He has already sent people to kill you once. He won't stop." 

Seokmin got out of bed and carefully adjusted the king's shirt before tightly holding his hands, hoping to cease their trembling. He searched his husband's eyes, wishing once more that he could read or at least speak to hearts. 

"You created me." He reminded. "You made me strong and resilient. I will not let you deal with this nightmare alone anymore. You have me, Hyung. You always have me." 

Jeonghan freed his hands to pull the younger closer. "Saying thank you will never be enough, but it is all I have." 

"It is all I need," Seokmin reassured him. "It is more than I have ever had."

Jeonghan kissed him once more, this time deeper and longer, Seokmin whining at the feeling of the king's fangs on his lower lip. 

"I love you." He stated breathlessly. "More than anything. I have planned Lee Kang's capture and my revenge for centuries, but I will walk away if you ask me to." 

Seokmin instantly shook his head. "No, don't do that." He pleaded. "I led Mingyu to you because I knew he could lead us to Lee Kang. I knew he was the missing piece. I want this for you. You are so close. Don't give up now. I will be alright. I have you and Wonwoo." 

Jeonghan hummed, stealing one final kiss. "I don't deserve you." 

"You still have me." 

Seokmin spent the majority of the day with Seungkwan. Wonwoo was with the others, and while he was pleased that he was doing what he did best, Seokmin missed his friend. Since turning Wonwoo, their bond and friendship had blossomed. Other than Jeonghan, he was the person he turned to. It hurt not to have him around, but he understood. He was forming a solid friendship with Seungkwan, and the younger was learning that Seokmin's interest in him was genuine. 

"Did you mean it when you said I could do what I wanted?" Seungkwan asked suddenly. 

They were sitting in the garden with Bomi. It seemed Seungkwan was as taken with the rabbit as Seokmin was. She seemed to reciprocate the affection as she always hopped toward him, twitching her nose curiously. 

"Yes," Seokmin answered without hesitation. "Is there something you want to do?" 

"I want to study," Seungkwan revealed. "I never got to attend school, and I want to learn." 

Seokmin nodded along. "Okay. I will ask about a tutor." 

The younger seemed rather stunned. "Just like that?" 

"Just like that. As long as you are safe and happy." 

Seungkwan took a second to reply, carefully brushing his fingers against Bomi's white fur. "Sometimes I still think this is all some kind of dream and I will wake up in the dirty streets again." He finally met Seokmin's eyes. "I know you are a vampire, but sometimes I wonder if you are an angel, my guardian angel that saved me." 

Seokmin smiled at the thought. "I am happy that you are here, Seungkwan." 

It seemed Seungkwan wasn't done asking questions just yet. "What is it like...being a vampire?" 

Seokmin hadn't been expecting such a question, but answered diligently anyway. After all, it was human nature to be curious. 

"Strange, but somehow still normal. In a lot of ways, I still feel human until I'm hungry." 

Seungkwan seemed thoughtful as well as a little fearful. "What...what do you eat? I mean, I know blood, but...how?" 

Seokmin almost laughed at how cute Seungkwan looked, but he held back as he answered. "We consume blood, yes, but it is from controlled sources. The king mentioned that one of the grandest crimes a vampire can commit is to spill the blood of the innocent." He explained. "Our cook also makes blood meals for us." 

The younger looked mildly concerned. "But not for humans, right?" 

"Never for humans," Seokmin reassured him.

Seungkwan let out a breath, relieved he hadn't accidentally consumed blood.  "Did it hurt to become a vampire?" 

"It did," Seokmin admitted, remembering the painful night after turning, how he felt like he was going to rip apart at the seams, how he panicked when he could no longer feel his pulse or hear the rush of blood in his ears. 

"But it's a short moment." He continued. "And this life is unlike any other. I don't regret being turned. I belong in a way I never had before. I share a strong bond with the king. I am his in every way. I turned Wonwoo, and our bond is just as unique. These relationships feel more precious to me." 

"So, you belong to who turned you?" 

"In a sense." 

Seungkwan was silent for a long moment, pondering, questioning, planning. "Will they turn Mingyu?" 

"If that is what he wishes." 

More silence, more thinking. "I want to belong to Mingyu. I think being a vampire would be okay if I were with him." 

Seokmin smiled in knowing. "You should discuss it with him." 

Before Seungkwan could reply, Jisoo rushed out into the garden, disturbing their peaceful moment. Bomi, startled, hopped into her house as the two stared in wonder. Seokmin felt unease creep into him. He had never seen Jisoo so disheveled or rushed. Something had to be wrong, but neither of his bonds were tugging painfully at him. Jeonghan and Wonwoo weren't in danger, but there was an odd tingle from Jeonghan, not danger or anger, but a mix of emotions he couldn't pick out. 

"His Majesty would like to see you right now." Jisoo huffed out. "In his chambers." 

Seokmin curtly nodded and rushed inside to the palace and towards Jeonghan's room, anxious as to what he would find. The mix of emotions in their bond was startling. There was excitement paired with sorrow, and hope, and the tiniest bit of concern. What was going on? When he pushed open the door, he was surprised to find the king kneeling by the bed, an unknown figure in their bed. Jeonghan turned. 

"Darling, come close." 

Carefully, Seokmin stepped forward and held back a gasp as he took in the person's features. He looked back at Jeonghan, who looked excited and eager. A tingle was sent through their bond. 

"You see it too, don't you? He resembles him so much." 

Seokmin could only nod. The sleeping boy in their bed couldn't be older than twenty or so, but he was the spitting image of Yoon Sang, Jeonghan's son. However, he was pale and weak, indicating he was sick, perhaps deathly so. Then he felt it, a tentative pull on their bond, a question, a hope. Jeonghan was pleading with him. His eyes widened as he turned back to his husband. 

"You..." 

Jeonghan nodded, sure and firm. "He's days from dying." 

Seokmin wanted to ask how he knew, but didn't, figuring it was similar to other things Jeonghan could do that he couldn't. Instead, he took a deep breath. 

"But what if he doesn't want it?" He asked carefully. "You can't take what isn't given to you. You can't do what he did." 

Jeonghan's expression hardened in the slightest, jaw clenched before he sighed. "You're right." 

He gently shook the boy, who groaned before blinking his eyes open. "Who are you?" He asked weakly. 

"Someone who wants to help. What is your name?" 

"Chan. Lee Chan. I wanted to get to the palace to ask for help for my illness." His eyes darted around, taking in his surroundings. "Did I make it?" 

A fond smile found its way to Jeonghan's face. "You did. I can offer you help if you're willing. I can't save your human life, but I can give you a new one." 

Chan blinked, clearly not understanding. "How do you mean?" 

"I can turn you into a vampire. Your human body will die along with the illness, and you will be new, but it will hurt and you will suffer until your human body fully dies." 

Chan sharply inhaled. Then, after several long seconds, exhaled. "Will I be alone?" 

A flicker of pain flashed through Jeonghan's eyes and pinched in their bond, causing Seokmin to wince. "No, you won't be alone." He promised.

Never again was whispered along their bond. 

"Okay," Chan whispered. "I accept your help." 

Jeonghan's smile widened as he brushed Chan's hair back. "Okay." 

He stood and walked to Seokmin, who had been observing with a conflicted heart. "Love, I know this is sudden, but I need your help." 

Seokmin frowned. "My help?" 

He was sure this would be nothing for Jeonghan. He was a strong vampire. He turned Jisoo and Seokmin all on his own. Why would he suddenly need help? Just as he was about to ask, Jeonghan spoke once more. 

"He's on the brink of death. It will take our combined strength, but this kind of turning is unheard of, a duplicated bond. In a sense, he would be ours, a mix of our energies." 

Seokmin blinked. "Like our son?" He tried hesitantly. 

Jeonghan's eyes flickered once more, but he recovered quickly. "Yeah, like our son." 

Hope flooded their bond and swam in Jeonghan's eyes. It was the first time he had seen the king so excited, so vulnerable. He knew he wouldn't be able to deny him, nor did he want to. He knew they wouldn't have a conventional family, but perhaps this way would be alright too. He glanced over at the boy writhing in pain on their bed. He seemed so helpless, and he was willing to take a new life. He looked back at his husband. 

"I will help you." 

He was rewarded with the brightest smile Seokmin had ever seen. As they began the process to turn Chan, Seokmin felt warmth spread through his cold body. 

Thank you was whispered across their bond, as well as I love you. 

Chapter Text

The palace was veiled with uncertain anxiety. Chan's recovery was taking longer than usual, as his human body had been near death before turning. Both Jeonghan and Seokmin were restless, as they could feel the faint new bond flicker and tug with Chan's pain and confusion. Jeonghan tried to go about his business as normal, especially since Lee Kang was near capture. It was only a matter of weeks now. Seokmin would watch him leave the bed every morning with a heavy heart. He understood why they turned Chan, what it meant to his husband, and what it meant to him, but uncertainty still lingered in his heart. Had they done the right thing? Was this going to set Jeonghan back?

Jeonghan, like every morning they were together, left him after a long and tender kiss. A promise of time for just them lingering in their bond. Seokmin took longer to leave the room. He was having a difficult time lately. There was too much going on. Too much to worry about. He worried about Chan, he wondered about his husband, he missed Wonwoo, and he was always looking out for Seungkwan. He sighed, lying back against the silk sheets that Jeonghan loved so. He had to do something.

He decided to go and visit Chan. Wonwoo and Jisoo had been watching over him in shifts. It seemed it had been Wonwoo's shift as the attendant left the room, nodding to Jisoo before the other man walked into the room. Wonwoo caught sight of Seokmin and greeted him.

"How is he?" Seokmin asked, trying to keep his tone light and his emotions level, but it seemed as if he was doing a terrible job because Wonwoo frowned, feeling the anxiety swirling in their bond.

He was quick to reassure him. "Better. He is sitting up now. He should be ready for his first real feed soon, as he's been handling stored blood well."

Relief flooded through Seokmin. Chan was okay. He had survived. He was doing well. Jeonghan was going to be thrilled. He did, however, wonder how Chan's first feed was going to go. As customary, Jeonghan and Seokmin were both going to be there to provide for him. Would he take to this new life? Would he resent them? His thoughts were interrupted by a strange twinge, and he turned to Wonwoo, figuring out where it came from.

"How do you feel about Chan, Wonwoo?"

Wonwoo wouldn't meet his eyes as he kept his face stoic. "It really is not my place to say, Your Majesty."

Seokmin frowned. "I say it is your place. I would like to know how you feel, Wonwoo."

Wonwoo inhaled deeply, almost shakingly. "He is so young and seems so frail. I worry about him."

Seokmin's frown turned into a fond smile. "You have a big heart, Wonwoo, even if it no longer beats."

Wonwoo looked shy, but could finally meet Seokmin's eyes. "I get it from you, Your Majesty."

Seokmin stepped closer, placing a hand on Wonwoo's face. The attendant leaned into the touch, their bond pleasantly thrumming where the rush of blood should have been.

"As for Chan, he has an army around him. We won't let any harm come to him." He reassured.

Wonwoo nodded, letting Seokmin hold him close for a moment. "When this is over," Seokmin began, speaking softly, "when Lee Kang is captured and dealt with, I would like to spend time with you. I've missed our quiet moments together."

He pulled away and was pleased to see Wonwoo smiling. "I would like that, Your Majesty."

"Lieutenant Jeon!"

Across from them, Seungcheol stood, waiting patiently but urgently. He quickly bowed to Seokmin. "Forgive the intrusion, but you are needed." He told Wonwoo.

Seokmin lets go of him. "Go on, do your job."

"Seungkwan is studying in the library," Wonwoo informed him, knowing that was who Seokmin was going to seek out next.

"Thank you."

After relentlessly searching for a tutor with Jeonghan and Seungkwan, they eventually found one they could all agree on and, most importantly, someone they could trust. The palace was still under high security, and Jeonghan refused to let just anyone in, and Seokmin refused to put Seungkwan in danger. In the end, they settled on a young scholar named Chwe Hansol. At first, Seokmin and even Seungkwan had been skeptical of him. He was young and completely human, but Jeonghan was the one who had suggested him. Apparently, like Mingyu, he had a useful gift and had been of help in the past. Eventually, after a couple of meetings and trial runs, they learned that he was the perfect tutor for Seungkwan. He was straightforward, but patient, making sure Seungkwan understood everything before moving on. It seemed Seungkwan was learning well from him.

When Seokmin arrived at the library, it looked as if Hansol and Seungkwan were finishing up a lesson. Hansol politely greeted Seokmin before resuming gathering his things. He reminded Seungkwan of what to study, and then he left the two of them alone in the massive library. Seungkwan turned, delighted to see Seokmin, but his expression fell when he noticed the distant look in the other's eyes.

"Your Majesty, is something troubling you?" He paused. "Is it Chan?"

He had heard about Chan and what was going on, but never asked anything, assuming it wasn't his place to. Seokmin snapped out of his thoughts as he sat across from the other.

"Chan is fine. I spoke to Wonwoo before coming here. I'm fine, I just have a lot on my mind."

"I know we aren't close." Seungkwan started, and Seokmin stopped him with a shake of his head.

"That isn't true, I care for you deeply, Seungkwan. We may not share a blood bond, but the bond we do share is just as pleasant and strong as one. I just want to spare you of my troubles."

Seungkwan looked at him evenly. "What if I do not want to be spared?"

A small smile found its way onto Seokmin's face. There was the Seungkwan he was coming to know and adore. Then he sighed.

"I suppose I am...concerned. Not quite about Chan, but rather the entire ordeal." He admitted.

Seungkwan seemed to understand. "Is it the king?"

Hesitantly, Seokmin nodded. "I know it sounds ridiculous, but it's clear that Jeonghan already treasures Chan, and I understand why, it's just..." He trailed off, unsure if he should continue, but Seungkwan was quick to piece it together anyway.

"I know I haven't been here long and that I've only met the king twice, but I am certain that he loves you more than anything. I think, no, I know, he would kill everyone and then himself if he dared or did anything to upset you or put you in danger."

Seokmin could help but let out a tiny laugh, knowing that Seungkwan was right. "Yeah, he would." He agreed. "Since my last family wasn't the best, I suppose I worry about building a new one." He mused.

Seungkwan nodded along. "I've never really had a family. I was an orphan. All I had was Mingyu, and when we came to the palace, I was worried about losing him." He paused and swallowed hard. "He told me just the other night that Seungcheol-ssi offered to turn him, telling him it would be easier if he were a vampire."

Seokmin knew Seungkwan was worried about losing Mingyu and how skeptical he was about all things vampires. He could understand the struggle the younger was experiencing.

"And what did he say?"

"He said he wanted to discuss it with me first. I want him to be free to do what he wants. He's given up enough for me, but I'm worried. I never realized it before because we were too busy surviving, but I love him. I want him to be happy even if I'm not a part of it." He then laughed. "But Mingyu, he wouldn't hear it. He refuses to leave me. He says that we either do it together or not at all. So, after a long night, I decided. He's being turned this evening, and when he's strong enough to turn me, I will be next."

"And it's what you want?" Seokmin asked carefully.

Seungkwan nodded. "Yeah, it's what I want."

"Then I'm happy for you, Kwannie. Sincerely."

Their chat turned to other things, life, things they liked, and gossip they had heard around the palace. They were like old friends, and Seokmin was forever grateful he had intervened that day in the garden. Seungkwan brought him peace and comfort, and he would forever treasure it. Leaving the library, Seokmin was stopped by his husband, who looked excited and eager.

"Hyung, is everything okay?"

"Quite." Jeonghan grinned. "Chan is asking for us."

Seokmin grasped onto his husband's outstretched hand as they made their way to Chan's room. They carefully entered, feeling the new bond, tingling and growing within them. The new vampire was sitting up, looking livelier than the last time they had seen him. Almost all color had returned to him, and he had a faint smile playing on his lips.

"Hello," He greeted, trying to bow, but Seokmin and Jeonghan were quick to stop him.

"None of that," Jeonghan whispered. "We're family now."

Chan paused, thinking. "I think...I think I can feel that. There's something new within me. It pulls at me whenever you two are near. It's slightly overwhelming."

"That's our bond," Seokmin explained. "A gift of our circumstance."

Chan's eyes became misty as several tugs to their bond were made. "Thank you. You saved my life. I am forever in debt to you."

Jeonghan shook his head. "Nonsense. You just have to live well, okay? We will take care of the rest."

Seokmin watched their interaction with a warm heart. He had been wondering these last few days if they had made the right decision, if everything was going to change now that they had Chan. Seokmin knew the answers now. They had made the correct decision. Perhaps things would change, but it would be alright. He could feel it. A whisper in his and Jeonghan's bond told him the same thing.

Chapter Text

The day arrived for Chan's first feed, a week and a half after he was turned. He had been sustaining off of stored blood during that time, and Jeonghan often voiced his concern on how the new vampire was truly missing out. The evening before, Jeonghan and Seokmin went down to the dungeon to set everything up as it was done for Wonwoo and for Seokmin himself. There was still no shortage of prisoners being brought in, and the one picked out for Chan's feed was diabolical. Not only had he killed people, he ate them, serving the leftovers to any poor unsuspecting soul who would take it. With a dark grin, Jeonghan met the prisoner's eye.

"You enjoy eating people?" He asked, his tone mockingly sweet. "How about we give you a little taste of your own medicine?"

With a movement faster than even Seokmin's vampiric eyes could track, the man's spine was snapped to paralyze him. It was the king's special move, taught only to Jisoo—a fast, calculated move used to disable the prey and keep them alive before drainage. Seokmin had seen him do it a couple of times now, but it didn't make it any easier to see. He winced, eyes focusing on the old stone before looking back at his husband, who grinned at him.

The next morning, Chan was led to the dungeon. The younger was nervous, clinging close to them, making Jeonghan practically coo and Seokmin smile. As the new vampire took in the sight before him, he grew nervous and overwhelmed. A painful tingle tickled their bond. He turned to his makers with curious but concerned eyes.

"I'm afraid." He admitted.

Seokmin took the lead. "It's overwhelming, isn't it?"

Chan softly nodded.

"It's okay to be afraid." Seokmin continued. "Wonwoo was, too, at first."

Jeonghan was quick to follow along. "As was Jisoo." He stepped forward to join them, brushing Chan's hair back with rare gentleness.

"Just try once, and we can decide how to go forward from there. Your first proper feed is important." He stated.

"Would you like us to show you?" Seokmin asked after they were met with more silence.

Slowly, Chan nodded his silent agreement. Without wasting another second, Jeonghan moved to the prisoner and grabbed his neck, angling himself well enough to demonstrate. He took a small bite, barely enough to get a drop from, before promptly dropping the prisoner back down onto the cold concrete. Chan hesitantly approached him and kneeled next to the king before biting into the prisoner's neck like he was shown. Jeonghan smiled proudly as the new vampire drank. Seokmin watched from a distance with skepticism and concern. He expected Chan to pull away almost instantly, like Wonwoo had, but to his surprise and Jeonghan's amusement, Chan stayed connected to the neck for a long time, draining and eating his fill. Jeonghan had to step in and pull him away.

"Careful." He warned. "Dead man's blood is poisonous."

The young vampire whined, much like Seokmin had after his first feed, but didn't fight the king. After the first successful feed, Jeonghan and Seokmin spent time with Chan when they could. The more they were around him, the more they learned about him. The first major thing they learned was that his bloodlust exceeded theirs. He didn't care much for blood meals, preferring them fresh from a human. He was a frequent visitor to the dungeon, and Seokmin had once joked that they would experience a famine soon.

Chan was also curious and excited. He took in the world around him with wide eyes and an open mind. He was always asking about things, from the staff to the palace, to the king himself. Jeonghan was always eager to answer him, as was Seokmin. As his curiosity extended to other worldly things, they turned to him to Hansol. The new vampire was then tutored alongside Seungkwan, who was happily freshly turned himself. The two new vampires made fast friends, much to Seokmin's delight. It finally felt like he had a real family, a family he wanted to hold close and protect.

Which was why it was difficult to see them off when they had to go. Upon Jeonghan's orders, it was time to capture Lee Kang. They were finally going to gain the upper hand, but it meant that Wonwoo had to go away with Seungcheol and Mingyu. He practically pouted at the gate, having insisted on seeing him off. Wonwoo was his best friend, and he hated sending him off into potential danger. Their bond was tingling and pulsating, almost resembling a heartbeat. Seokmin distracted himself by adjusting Wonwoo's uniform, hoping his trembling hands weren't noticeable.

"Be careful."

"Always," Wonwoo answered almost instantly.

Not able to stand it, Seokmin pulled him into a hug and held him tightly. The other vampire indulged him, hugging him back with equal tightness. When they finally pulled away, Wonwoo appeared shy.

"I have no idea if this is appropriate to say, Your Majesty." He began.

"Seokmin." Seokmin corrected.

"Seokmin," Wonwoo repeated before taking a deep breath. "I love you."

His cheeks flushed red as Seokmin blinked rapidly, trying to process what he had just heard. Wonwoo began to panic at the lack of his maker's reply.

"I didn't mean-not...not like His Majesty loves you, but as I care for you...my maker...my friend. I-"

Seokmin cut him off with a bright smile and a hand to his cheek. "I know, Wonwoo." He reassured. "I love you, too, which means I order you to return to me safely."

"I will," Wonwoo promised.

At night, when it was just the two of them, Jeonghan would hold him close, never letting him forget just how loved and adored he was. He whispered it on his skin, pressed it with each touch, each caress, and kiss was Jeonghan's devotion. Tonight was no different. Jeonghan's hands roamed as his mouth focused on kissing every inch of Seokmin's face, making the younger breathlessly giggle.

"Beautiful, wonderful, and all mine," Jeonghan murmured.

"All yours," Seokmin repeated almost mindlessly as Jeonghan's slim fingers ghosted over his clothed erection.

"Hyung." He choked out as the king finally made contact.

Jeonghan hummed, mindlessly palming him over his silk pajama pants. They were the most extravagant pajamas Seokmin had ever worn, and they were going to get ruined if they kept on like this, but suddenly he didn't have half a mind to care. Jeonghan would take care of it. He always did.

"It's always an honor seeing you like this," Jeonghan whispered. "So pliant and trusting under me." He leaned down, his hand drifting away from Seokmin, making him whine as the king whispered in his ear. "It makes me want to eat you."

The younger let out a moan so needy he was almost embarrassed by it, but Jeonghan? Jeonghan was delighted to hear it. Within an instant, his hands were back on Seokmin, this time without his pajamas. They were discarded to some other place in the room, thrown away by Jeonghan in his eagerness. The cold air against his bare skin should have made him shiver, but his body ran colder these days anyway. It wasn't like he could focus on anything other than Jeonghan's hands and mouth on him anyway. He let the king take him apart, piece by piece, touch by touch, because he always put him back together with his kiss and his sweet words murmured against his lips. As the king thrust into him with gentleness reserved only for him, Seokmin bit his husband's shoulder, making them both moan as the feeling and rushing of blood. Before long, Jeonghan's fangs pierced Seokmin's shoulder as well, and they both came with groans and messy mouths. Jeonghan made quick work to clean them both up before returning to bed with their pajamas and arms wrapped around one another.

"I love you," Jeonghan whispered. "Forever and always."

If it had been anyone else saying it, Seokmin might have disregarded the latter part of the statement. Humans had no real concept of forever, but Jeonghan did. He lived it. He would continue living it. Forever wasn't something easy or simple to him. It was his reality, his truth, and he was promising it to Seokmin. He nestled in closer to him, nose to his neck.

"I love you, Hyung, forever."

They fell asleep like that, their unbeating hearts swirling as one. Their peace only lasted an hour as Jeonghan sat up with a strangled gasp, the sound similar to one associated with pain. Seokmin was quick as he sat up, feeling the heavy foreign emotion in their bond. Something was wrong. He rubbed his husband's back as Jeonghan's breath returned to him.

"Hyung, what is it?" Seokmin whispered, afraid to raise his voice in the stillness.

"They've done it." He stated, almost in disbelief. "They've captured Lee Kang."

Chapter Text

Tension filled the palace with Lee Kang's arrival. Seokmin didn't see much of Jeonghan for the next couple of days. The king spent his days between his royal duties and standing in front of the dungeon. He would never go in. He would simply glare at the stone door. Seokmin could feel that his husband was uneasy and beyond angry. He wanted to help, but he didn't know how. He felt like it wasn't his place. This was Jeonghan's battle. All Seokmin could do was offer his silent support, tugging at their bond often to remind him he wasn't alone.

Seokmin couldn't quite understand the uneasiness that consumed Jeonghan and their guests. They finally captured Lee Kang. He was at their every mercy. Wasn't that a good thing? Why wasn't Jeonghan going into the dungeon to get his answers? Why wouldn't they kill him? Five days after the capture of Lee Kang, Seokmin finally received some answers to his questions in the form of a meeting. His heart clenched when he caught sight of his husband for the first time in days. Jeonghan's royal appearance was nowhere in sight. His long hair, usually smooth, silky, and elegantly tied back, was a tangled mess as the king often ran his hair through it. He looked pale. Had he not fed? Seokmin was going to have to speak with Mrs. Park to get him to eat something, anything. He didn't want to watch his husband fade away.

Junhui and Minghao didn't look much better. They seemed just as tired and stressed as Jeonghan was. Chan stuck close to Seokmin, a rather harsh tug in their bond told him the new vampire was scared and worried. Seokmin kept him close for his comfort as much as for Chan's. The king let out a long sigh, locking eyes with Seokmin for a moment, seeming to gain strength from him, before speaking.

"We have captured Lee Kang after many centuries of searching, but now that we have him, there is a grand problem. We cannot kill him without killing ourselves. Killing our maker is a crime, the grandest crime a vampire can commit. It would destroy us and, in turn, anyone we created." He explained, voice taunt and pained.

Seokmin finally understood. Now he could understand the worry and uneasiness as it consumed him as well. What were they going to do? They couldn't let him go. He had caused far too much damage and needed to be destroyed, but all of their lives were at risk. He knew Jeonghan wasn't scared of dying; he could feel it. He was scared of harming Seokmin and Chan, and the rest of their family. Not to mention, it would be the fall of Ardmendia. As if reading his mind, and perhaps he was, Jeonghan spoke again.

"To kill him, we would have to sever our bond or find a quick way to cut the connection." Feeling the weight of his own words, he sighed. "For now, we will keep him here and alive. We must keep a careful watch around here in the meantime, understood?"

Everyone nodded as they were dismissed. Seokmin gently sent Chan off with Seungkwan, promising he was going to take care of everything before approaching his husband.

"Hyung," He whispered, afraid to make his voice any louder.

Jeonghan's tense expression morphed into something softer and more caring as he held Seokmin close to him. Seokmin let his arms rest around Jeonghan's shoulders, trying his best to convey his love and concern through their bond. He needed his husband to know he wasn't alone, that Seokmin was going to be by his side no matter what. A squeeze to his waist told him that his message was well-received.

"I won't let anyone hurt you," Jeonghan promised, voice muffled by Seokmin's skin.

Seokmin lightly laughed. "Should I not be the one to say that you?"

He held him impossibly closer. "We'll figure it out, Hyung, together." He promised.

That evening, Jeonghan stayed close to him. They sought comfort in one another. Seokmin made sure that the king ate, no matter how reluctant he was to, he could never say no to his husband. Jeonghan let himself be held later that night in bed. He let Seokmin's arms wrap around him. He let him whisper soft comforts in his ear. He let it lull him to sleep.

When it first happened, Seokmin had been unprepared. He wasn't accustomed to his vampiric ways just yet. He didn't know how to use his new heightened senses to his advantage. He didn't know how to fight, but this time, he was prepared. With speed he had only seen from Jeonghan, he bolted awake at the first sound of shuffling in their room and reached under their bed for the spare sword Wonwoo insisted he keep. Even in the dark, he accurately pointed it directly at the intruder's throat, just as Wonwoo had taught him.

"Move even a millimeter and you'll regret it." He warned.

Across the room, Jeonghan had hold of the second intruder. He looked at his husband with amusement and surprise, but it faded as he turned his attention to the intruder.

"I won't bother asking who you are. I already know you're fledglings of Lee Kang's, recently turned, if my sense of smell is accurate." He stated, venom clear in his voice. "I will tell you that he isn't worth this suicide mission. He isn't worth saving. I will be killing him, that is a promise."

The one held hostage by Seokmin's sword dared to speak. "You have it all wrong. We owe our lives to him. He saved us."

"That may be the case, but an act of kindness doesn't erase the centuries of terror he led. He owes his life to this kingdom, and I intend to make him pay in full."

It was clear the intruders knew they were outnumbered and defeated. They let Seungchel and Wonwoo take them away when they arrived, but Seokmin didn't miss their soft words spoken to one another.

"What are we going to do now, Jihoon?"

"I don't know, Soonyoung, but we'll be okay."

Seokmin watched as their hands brushed against one another before they were officially dragged out of the room. He would have to discuss it with his husband later. Once they were alone in the room once more, Seokmin finally felt his adrenaline wear off, and he lowered his sword, letting Jeonghan take it from him with gentle hands. The king gave the sword an amused look as he laid it on the dresser.

"Have you had that the entire time?" He questioned.

Seokmin shrugged rather sheepishly. "Ever since Wonwoo and I returned to the palace."

Jeonghan, for the first time in days, finally smiled as he wrapped Seokmin in his arms and kissed him deeply. "You're full of surprises, Yoon Seokmin."

Chapter Text

Seokmin was taken aback to see Jihoon and Soonyoung, the two intruders who had attacked them, at the next meeting regarding Lee Kang. They were seated at the farthest end of the table, away from the king and most importantly, away from Seokmin and Chan. Jeonghan didn't exactly glare at them, but he didn't look at them kindly either. Seokmin could feel it in their bond. Jeonghan was uneased by their presence. He could understand that. They were proof that Lee Kang was still active and trying to take control. It was concerning, so Seokmin wondered why they were in the room with them.

"It has been two weeks since we captured Lee Kang, and we are no closer to killing him than before. However, the other night, my husband and I were attacked by two of his newest fledglings." Jeonghan announced, gesturing to the two across the table.

"Instead of throwing them in the dungeon with their maker, I decided on a different decision."

He eyed them evenly, almost threateningly. "Help me kill Lee Kang, and I will consider your freedom. Just know, if you decline, I don't take kindly to threats and attempts on my husband's life. The last one who tried no longer has a jaw. Choose wisely."

Jihoon and Soonyoung shifted uncomfortably in place. Seokmin watched them closely. He was aware that they tried to kill him, but he couldn't find it within himself to hate them. As they held hands tightly under the table, it was clear they loved each other, perhaps as deeply as Jeonghan and Seokmin loved one another. He was curious how Lee Kang saved their lives and why they were so set on him being a savior.

"Fine. We will help." Jihoon answered finally, voice strong and clear, despite the fear that could practically be smelled.

"I figured you would see it my way," Jeonghan replied, dismissing everyone shortly after, as there wasn't much else to be said.

As always, Seokmin stayed behind, not wanting to leave Jeonghan alone during this time. He wrapped his arms around his husband's waist, holding him close from behind.

"I love you." He whispered against his shoulder, leaving a kiss there for good measure. "It will all be okay. We will figure it out."

Jeonghan lightly placed his hand atop Seokmin's. "I want to believe so, but it is beginning to feel impossible. If it were just me at stake, I would gladly sacrifice myself if it meant Lee Kang didn't exist."

Seokmin held onto him tighter, hearing those words. He couldn't imagine Jeonghan dying, even if it was for the better good. He was selfish. He wanted to keep his greatest love near. He couldn't be alone anymore, not after experiencing Jeonghan's care and love. It would destroy him. They would find another way. They had to. Sensing and perhaps feeling Seokmin's apprehension at his words, Jeonghan patted his hands.

"I won't do it, though. I couldn't risk Jisoo, Chan, and most importantly, I would never risk losing you." He turned around, holding Seokmin close to him. "I would let Lee Kang go if it meant you were safe."

Seokmin shook his head. "Don't say that. After everything he has done, you couldn't just let him go, not for me."

"I would do anything and everything for you," Jeonghan replied, lips ghosting over Seokmin's.

Seokmin wouldn't kiss him, not just yet, no matter how much he wanted to. "That's what scares me." He admitted. "I'm scared of how much of you I hold."

"You shouldn't be because I gave myself to you the day we wed, and I meant it. I will forever mean it. You could rip me apart and destroy me from the inside out, and I would still sing your praises. I mean it, my love. I love you with everything in me. Please don't be burdened by my love."

Seokmin finally kissed him then, their lips slowly moving together in a warm and passionate kiss. Their bond thrummed beneath their cold skin, coming alive with each move of their lips. When they finally pulled away, they were nearly breathless. Seokmin rested his head against Jeonghan's shoulder, letting their thrumming bond serve as matched heartbeats. A thought crossed his mind. It seemed ridiculous, but at this point, anything was worth a try.

"What if you just...drop the bond?" Seokmin asked suddenly, lifting his head from Jeonghan's chest.

Jeonghan frowned, a bit confused. "Drop it?"

"Yes, drop the bond you have with Lee Kang." He clarified. "You were confused when he made you. He was all you knew. Perhaps you clung to the bond because it was all you had. If you can find a way to let it go, it would sever the bond, right?"

Jeonghan sighed, but Seokmin could see him considering it. "It sounds correct, but I'm not so sure it can be done. The bond is centuries old, and he knows how to control it. It feels impossible."

Seokmin held his husband's face, eyes sparked with determination. He wouldn't let Jeonghan give up. Not now, not ever. "We will work on it together, hmm? You told me yourself that our bond is rare and strong. It has to be stronger than that awful one. Let's at least try it, okay?"

Jeonghan gazed at him with so much affection that it nearly made Seokmin's knees weak. "Okay." He finally agreed.

The next day, Jeonghan finally visited Lee Kang in the dungeon. Much to his reluctance, Seokmin was at his side, refusing to leave him. Jeonghan wanted him nowhere near Lee Kang, but if there was one trait the king admired in his husband, it was his stubbornness, even if it was used against him.

Seokmin wasn't expecting to see a handsome, young-looking man sitting in the middle of the room. When Jeonghan spoke of the vampire, he imagined an old man or someone similar. Lee Kang grinned, showing off two sharp fangs, as Jeonghan faced him.

"The prodigal son returns. I was wondering when you would pay me a visit. Junhui and Minghao have even come, but you're my favorite, my first." He stated, voice almost sickly sweet.

Jeonghan kept his expression level, but Seokmin felt the nervous electricity thrumming in their bond. Jeonghan was disgusted by Lee Kang, but he was also afraid of him.

"Why?" Jeonghan finally asked. "Why me? Why was I your first? Why am I your favorite?"

Lee Kang's grin only widened. "What if there isn't a reason?" He returned smugly. "What if I just wanted someone pretty for my collection, hm? What then?"

"You expect me to believe that you killed my family and cursed me because I was pretty?" He scoffed.

However, deep down, Seokmin and Jeonghan could feel that it was the truth. That was Lee Kang's reason. It was all meaningless.

"Cursed you?" He questioned, sounding almost amused. "You say I cursed you, yet you made many more in your image. Are you not the same as me? A monster?"

That was when Seokmin stepped in. "He gave us another chance, a purpose without asking for anything in return. He is a better maker and vampire than you will ever be."

Lee Kang turned to him with a glare of disdain. "You are his plaything." He sneered. "You serve as a distraction. You are nothing, and he doesn't need you." He spat.

There was so much venom in his tone that Seokmin actually flinched. Jeonghan was quick to pull his husband behind his back, away from Lee Kang's sight, lest he try something sneaky.

"Seokmin, go back inside." Jeonghan softly ordered.

"Hyung,"

"Please." Jeonghan pleaded through their bond, tugging harshly for good measure. Seokmin understood and reluctantly left his husband alone with Lee Kang. Perhaps he could find Wonwoo and see if there was anything he could help with, or maybe he could find Seungkwan and strategize with him. Before he could find either of them, Chan approached him. Seokmin was about to warmly greet him, but the words fell short when he took in the younger's distressed expression.

"What's the matter?"

"Hyung, something doesn't feel right," Chan stated.

"What do you mean, Channie?"

Before Chan could answer, an arrow flew through a nearby window, narrowly missing Seokmin's back. Acting quickly, Seokmin held Chan close to him, keeping his senses sharp to detect the next attack as he led the younger to safety. On the East side of the palace, Seokmin spotted Wonwoo, and he nearly cried with relief. He pushed Chan toward his attendant.

"Quick," He urged. "Take him to safety. We're under attack, arrows." He informed.

"Hyung!" Chan called after him, nearly in tears.

"Seok, come with us." Wonwoo pleaded, seeming near tears himself as he held Chan's squirming figure against him to keep him from running back to Seokmin.

Seokmin shook his head, trying to send an apology through the bonds. "I'm not running away and hiding this time. I refuse to leave Jeonghan alone."

He ran off after that, ignoring the cries and protests of the two people he held dear. He would protect them. He would do something useful with this new life Jeonghan had gifted him.

In the dungeon, Jeonghan felt a searing hot pain in his chest. Something was wrong. As he winced in pain, Lee Kang laughed, seeming to know it all. A mocking spirit could be felt bouncing along their bond, nearly making Jeonghan double over, but he tried his best to ignore it as he rushed out of the dungeon. He ran right into Jisoo, who seemed to be looking for him.

"Your Majesty, we are under attack. We have to go." He urged. "Chan is with Wonwoo."

"And Seokmin? Is he with them?"

Jisoo wouldn't answer him as another searing pain ripped through him, from his back to his chest. Something was terribly wrong.

Chapter Text

All Seokmin could feel was pain. It was searing hot, spreading throughout his chest. He tried to open his eyes, but it was difficult. They felt heavy. Even his breathing was slow despite how ragged it was. He couldn't remember what happened. All he remembered was giving Chan to Wonwoo before running off to find his husband. He finally managed to open his eyes and was confused to see stars above him. He was outside. How did he get there? Why wasn't he in the palace? What happened? Where was Jeonghan? He needed to warn him. He needed to keep him safe. He tried to sit up, but the pain in his chest was too great. All he could do was stare helplessly at the stars as he tried to send messages through his bonds.

--

The vampires fought hard against the intruders and attacks directed at them. Seungcheol, Mingyu, and Wonwoo were using swords to fight off their attackers, while Jeonghan led the others to safety. Chan fought hard as well, but instead of using a sword, he used his fangs and strength, ripping into any individual who dared to block their way. After successfully ripping the throat out of one, Jeonghan reached for him to keep him close as they turned a corner. He was leading them to the palace's underground tunnels. They had been built alongside the palace as a way for royalty to escape in times of war or intense danger. It was the first time Jeonghan had used them. The attacks were coming from within the palace as well as outside. They had been infiltrated once more and it was all Lee Kang's doing. He was controlling his fledglings through their bonds, making them do his evil bidding without question. He needed to find a safe way to kill him and fast, but it was hard to think without Seokmin by his side. He couldn't breathe without his husband. He needed to know where he was. He needed to know if he was safe. However, the sharp pain in their bond told a different story, and from the grimaces on Wonwoo and Chan's faces, they felt it too. Seokmin was alive, but he was hurt, probably severely. They needed to find him, but they couldn't while they were under attack.

He finally stopped, the others looking at him, awaiting instructions. Instructions he didn't have. He wasn't sure what he was doing. He hadn't been this distressed or helpless since the murder of his family. He didn't have answers for these people who trusted him so reverently. For all he knew, he was leading them to their death. Beside him, Chan let out a whimper, looking terribly innocent and young despite the tremendous amount of blood covering his mouth and clothes.

"Hyung, it hurts." He whined. "Seokmin is in so much pain."

Jeonghan swallowed hard. He could feel it too. It was practically all-consuming. However, there wasn't anything he could do about it, so he tugged Chan close in a hug before releasing him to Wonwoo.

"He's alive. We need to focus on that." Jeonghan told him.

Both Wonwoo and Chan nodded, but he could see the fear in their eyes. Seokmin had become important and precious to them all. He brought light back to the palace and Ardmendia. They loved him and wanted to protect him. It would kill them to lose him, but no one worse than Jeonghan.

"I need to get to the dungeon. If I can stop Lee Kang, I can stop the attacks." Jeonghan stated.

"What if he escaped?" Minghao questioned.

"Highly unlikely." Jeonghan dismissed despite having the fear bubble at the surface.

Junhui shook his head. "Not necessarily. Jihoon and Soonyoung didn't follow us down here. They could have helped him escape." He pointed out.

"Fuck." Jeonghan cursed, running his hand through his long hair. "Jisoo, make sure everyone stays down here. It's safest here."

Jisoo nodded once. "Please be careful, Your Majesty." He pleaded.

Jeonghan managed a small smile. Jisoo was his closest and most loyal friend. He had been through his side through it all. If there was anyone he trusted at this time, it was Hong Jisoo.

"You too." He whispered. "Take care of yourself as well as the others."

With one last look at his family, Jeonghan darted out of the tunnels and back into the chaos. Arrows were still flying, but there were significantly fewer than before thanks to their efforts. It allowed Jeonghan to rush to the dungeon without much danger. Much to his relief, Lee Kang was right where Jeonghan left him hours earlier, still with that smug grin on his face.

"Trouble?" He questioned, tone full of pride and amusement.

Jeonghan ignored him as a particular tug in his bond shared with Seokmin made him pause. It was weak but urgent. His husband was trying to tell him something. He desperately tried to communicate with him. He was alive; that was enough for him. He just needed to know where he was. He wanted to help him, but it seemed Seokmin had other plans. He was whispering something faint through their bond. It took him a moment, but he finally understood. Seokmin was helping him break the bond with Lee Kang.

He took a deep breath, closing his eyes. He could hear Lee Kang mocking him, but he paid him no mind. He let Seokmin's faint whisper lead him, guiding him through the mess. He concentrated on where his bond with Lee Kang resided, heavy and painful. With careful precision, he explored it, and with Seokmin's help and guidance, he discovered the multiple bonds Lee Kang was holding hostage, strings tight and frayed. All it would take was a harsh snap, and they would be disconnected. One by one, Jeonghan snapped all the bonds Lee Kang held, leaving his for last. He opened his eyes, pleased to see the fear on his maker's face as he became weaker and weaker, and then he snapped their bond. He was free. A world of weight that he had been carrying for centuries had been lifted. He no longer belonged to Lee Kang.

The ancient vampire gasped for breath, his skin turning from pale to a sickly gray. A maker was nothing without his bonds. The sight was delightful, but Lee Kang wasn't done yet. He still had more to say, despite it being difficult to speak.

"Was it worth the sacrifice?"

In the tunnels, the vampires sat around, awaiting their fate. It was unnervingly quiet until Minghao and Junhui let out collective gasps. The others were quick to their feet, circling them to make sure they were okay.

"Are you alright?" Seungkwan asked nervously.

They both managed small nods.

"More than alright." Minghao gasped out.

"What happened?" Seungcheol asked next.

"His Majesty did it. He broke the bonds. He freed us from Lee Kang." Junhui stated, astonishment clear in his voice.

The small group celebrated, relieved to have accomplished what seemed to be the impossible, but it didn't last long as Chan and Wonwoo doubled over in pain, almost simultaneously. Mingyu and Jisoo were quick to their sides to help steady them. They were shocked to see tears in Wonwoo's eyes when he lifted his head.

"What is it?" Seungkwan whispered, fearing the worst.

"I can't feel Seokmin anymore. There's nothing there."

Chapter Text

The palace was solemn. Seokmin, who brought light to the kingdom, was still missing, and everyone feared the worst. The king was distraught. He would barely eat, and he roamed the grand halls like a ghost, but he was upright. He organized search parties, extending the perimeter further and further each day that they returned empty-handed. Jeonghan refused to rest until Seokmin returned, and he expected the same out of everyone else. No one was to stop until his husband was safe in his arms once more. He would tear Ardmendia apart searching for him if he had to. Despite no longer feeling their once-strong bond, the king refused to believe that Seokmin could be dead. Killing a vampire was difficult, and if there was one thing he knew for certain about his husband, it was that he was a fighter. He wouldn't die easily. Not when he had so much waiting for him. Seokmin would return to him.

He might have been the only one who believed so. Chan and Wonwoo, who shared bonds with Seokmin, were beyond miserable at the loss of them. Chan, who still held onto some humanity, often cried in empty halls or became so angry that he messily took it out on his meals. Jeonghan tried to keep him near when he could, but he would be reminded of the missing bond, and he felt suffocated. When the young vampire would look up at him with wide, glistening eyes, he knew he felt the same. Wonwoo, who was already quiet to begin with, became almost silent, only speaking to bark orders at lower-ranking soldiers. He wouldn't smile anymore. Jeonghan knew that Seokmin would hate to see his confidante in such disarray.

Jeonghan threw himself into his work. He wanted Seokmin to come home to a better Ardmendia, a kingdom he helped to shape and change. He sifted through multiple tax documents, trying to find a way to lower the price of food, especially in the North. Why had it been so high in the first place? He sorted through Jisoo's notes, which held Seokmin's and the citizens' concerns, as well as suggested solutions to the problems. A majority of them were going to take an extended amount of time, but the king was determined to see all of it through, not just for Seokmin, but for the kingdom as a whole. He was Ardmendia, and he refused to let it fall.

He sighed after five hours of trying to find solutions. He was going to have to call a meeting soon to designate the new changes he had decided on. He rested his head in his palms. His head was pounding from the strain on his eyes and the lack of blood he had consumed. There were still plenty of prisoners to feast on, but Jeonghan saved them all for Seokmin. He wouldn't kill Lee Kang until he returned, either. After all, he was the one responsible for all of this. Seokmin deserved to see him go down once and for all.

A squeak from his office door had his head shooting up. When he saw it was Jisoo, he relaxed in the slightest, but didn't appreciate the strained expression on the other vampire's face. He admittedly wasn't as close to the Seokmin as many of the others were, but it was as Jeonghan had told Seokmin before, the two of them were brothers of the blood, sharing Jeonghan as a sire. While they didn't have the same unique bond that most vampires have with their sires, there was still something there. He knew Jisoo could feel Seokmin's absence, and no doubt was their own bond was taking a toll on him, having to feel Jeonghan's misery. He handled it well, but Jeonghan knew his friend well. He was suffering too. He wished he could take everyone's pain away from them.

"Speak," Jeonghan ordered, not in the mood for small talk or niceties.

Jisoo didn't take offense to it. "The search teams have returned." He announced. "Still nothing."

Jeonghan let out a long breath. "Then we try again tomorrow." He stated firmly. "We search every town, every river, every forest until we find him."

Jisoo simply nodded before bowing and excusing himself, leaving the king alone in the silence of his office. His eyes fell to the large window. The sun was just beginning to set. He rose from his chair and made his way to the royal garden, Seokmin's favorite place. He greeted the flowers, just as Seokmin always did, complimenting their color and vibrancy, urging them to grow well.

"I order you to grow well." He ordered a small daisy. He then softened his voice, remembering the tone his husband used for the flowers. "You have to make Seokmin proud when he sees you again. He has put a lot of love into you, into this entire kingdom. Everything he touches blooms vibrantly."

He swallowed hard as he stood upright. The sun was sinking lower and lower into the sky, draping the garden with a similar darkness that Jeonghan had felt for the last several days. The lanterns surrounding various corners of the garden began to switch on, but Jeonghan paid them no mind as he left the shade of the trees. The sun was dangerous to vampires, causing damage to their skin, and if exposed too long without shade or special blood, it could be fatal. Of course, over time, vampires could develop a sort of tolerance to the rays, and for a vampire as old as Jeonghan, if sunlight hit, it would merely tingle like a minuscule jolt of electricity. Besides, it wasn't as if the setting sun was of any danger to him, although a lingering, strange part of him wished for the pain.

He found the large rabbit enclosure he had built for Bomi, Seokmin's favorite bunny. He had no idea why his husband had bonded with such a creature, but he always enjoyed watching their interactions. Seokmin, who had been denied love for most of his life, had so much to give that it practically bled out of him. He had the purest heart despite the fact that it no longer beat.

The white rabbit hopped out of her enclosure and stared at the royal curiously. Jeonghan sat as still as he could, ignoring the heartbeat he heard from the small creature. He let her approach him. She did so cautiously, her tiny nose twitching as she assessed Jeonghan. She deemed him safe enough when she leaned closer to his hand. A few seconds later, she nudged it, asking him for pets. Jeonghan was a little reluctant, not as good with animals as Seokmin was, but Seokmin loved Bomi, and in turn, Jeonghan loved anything that Seokmin did, so he tentatively ran his hands against the soft white fur of the rabbit.

Bomi sat still for the longest time, letting Jeonghan pet her, knowing it was something he needed. As he stroked her fur, he felt a lump in his throat, and for the first time since he had been born into darkness, he cried, wishing for his light to return to him.

--

Seokmin could no longer see the stars. All he saw before him was darkness, never-ending darkness. It was like an abyss, drawing him in, but he fought against it. It didn't feel right. Where was Chan? Where was Wonwoo? Most importantly, where was Jeonghan? Were they safe? He needed to find them, make sure they weren't harmed, but how was he to escape this darkness? A voice, soft but clear, reverberated through the darkness.

"Because of your kindness and sincerity, we will help you." It promised.

The voice sounded familiar, but Seokmin couldn't place it. Instead, he focused on following it, leaving the dark abyss farther and farther behind.

Chapter Text

Jeonghan held a meeting as promised. He was relentless as he demanded plans of action, rather than mediocre suggestions. Seokmin had to come back to a better Ardmendia, his home that he loved and fought hard to change. The king wouldn't allow laziness in his court, and those in attendance were well aware of that fact. Jisoo was beside him, taking diligent notes as usual. Higher members of the Ministry of Defence, such as Seungcheol, Wonwoo, and even Mingyu, were present as well. All other soldiers were sent out in teams to search. Chan was sitting on his other side. It was clear that many in the room felt the younger didn't belong there, but none of them dared to voice such a thought. They had learned from Lord Lim's previous mistake.

Amid a Lord's proposal of how to cut taxes, Jeonghan felt a strange tingle in his chest where his and Seokmin's bond used to rest, the spot that had been hollow for so long. He held onto the feeling as tightly as he could, trying to see what he could make of it. His head lifted, seeing Wonwoo in a similar state, and a look at Chan told him the same. What was happening? He couldn't focus anymore, not even when he was asked for his opinion on the proposal. The door burst open, and a soldier entered without announcing himself or knocking. Both Wonwoo and Seungcheol stood to scold their man, but with a wave of Jeonghan's hand, they sat back down.

"You have interrupted a very important meeting," Jeonghan stated calmly. "I do hope that what you have to say to me is of more importance, for I am in no mood to play games." He warned.

The soldier gulped and quickly bowed. "Your Majesty, Soonyoung and Jihoon are at the gate. They declare that their business is of the utmost importance and that they will only speak with you."

Jeonghan narrowed his eyes, suspicious. The two had disappeared amongst the chaos when the palace was attacked. He had assumed they were on Lee Kang's side and were a part of the plan. Even now, he was unsure if they were still loyal to the ancient vampire or not. He had cut their bonds, the freshest and strongest ones, but they could still uphold some sort of loyalty to him. He had to proceed with caution. He nodded to the soldier, indicating that the message was received, and without excusing himself or addressing the others in the room, he left, Wonwoo and Chan close behind him.

Jihoon and Soonyoung were standing tall at the gate, patiently waiting for the king's arrival. To his surprise, they bowed, and when their heads lifted, he eyed them evenly.

"I heard you have business, but I have no interest in dealing with Lee Kang's fledglings." He told him, the coldness hard to miss in his tone.

Neither of them flinched or seemed disheartened by the king's words, most likely expecting it. "The bonds have been broken," Soonyoung stated. "We have no such ties anymore."

Jeonghan wasn't as easily convinced. "Loyalty could still be held without ties."

"We cannot force you to believe us, but we are not here to cause the kingdom any harm. We have simply come to help." Jihoon told him.

"Help?" Jeonghan nearly scoffed.

With a nod, Soonyoung walked to a wagon where a lump of blankets lay. The tingle became more prominent as Soonyoung lifted the lump of blankets and headed towards Jeonghan. The king almost took a large step back, weary of what was being presented to him, but his body wouldn't move. The tingle in his chest turned into thudding as the bond came alive once more, seeing Seokmin's face in the lump of blankets. He rushed to take him out of Soonyoung's hold, cradling his husband's weak form against him. He was alive, barely.

"We found him deep in the woods. He had taken a holy arrow through the back. He was nearly dead when we found him. Soonyoung was able to extract most of the poison from him, but it is difficult to know if it helped." Jihoon explained.

Jeonghan's eyes never left Seokmin. "Thank you for returning him to me. I am in great debt to you."

"No," Soonyoung stated firmly. "It was our honor to save him."

Jeonghan simply nodded, rushing his husband inside the palace, ordering for the royal doctor and various other things needed for Seokmin's comfort. He laid him down in the room, on their bed that had felt so empty for so long. He discarded the dirty blankets and clothes caked with dirt and blood, dressing him in the pajamas he loved so, cleaning him up where he could.

The royal doctor arrived moments later, and Jeonghan reluctantly left his husband's side as the doctor assessed him. He watched anxiously, wincing at the large wound in the center of Seokmin's back. He must have been in so much pain. Just how much had his husband suffered? He didn't want to think about it.

The doctor stood upright and turned to Jeonghan. He was an older man who had worked for the royal family for the past three decades. He was well-versed in human and vampiric medicine and was hand-picked by Jeonghan himself. He trusted him and valued his opinion.

"Your Majesty, he is very weak. There is still some poison lingering in his system. It is impossible to extract without causing him harm. He can only be cured by ancient vampiric blood."

Jeonghan was quick to reply, holding his arm out. "Take mine. I am centuries old."

The doctor shook his head. "You are centuries old, but not ancient." He explained gently. "Besides, drainage at this amount would result in death."

Jeonghan was frustrated. He would gladly give his life to save Seokmin, but he couldn't. It wasn't what he needed. So, he thanked the doctor, who was only doing his job, and dismissed him. Wonwoo and Chan were in the room with him, although he was unsure of when they came in. Perhaps they had been there the entire time. Chan stumbled forward, Jeonghan barely managing to catch him before he fell.

"Hyung," He whispered, looking at Seokmin. "Please wake up. We need you."

Jeonghan swallowed the familiar lump in his throat as he stood and reluctantly left his husband's side. He approached Wonwoo, who looked pained at the sight of his sire and his friend. However, he managed to tear his eyes away to give his attention to the king.

"Stay with them," Jeonghan pleaded. "I have an important errand."

Wonwoo simply nodded, and Jeonghan stormed out of the room, heading straight for the dungeon. Lee Kang was still in the center, but he was weaker than ever, gray and sickly in a way Jeonghan had never seen before. He could barely lift his head to see who his visitor was, but he didn't need to. He knew who it was.

"More gloating?" Asked Lee Kang weakly, "Or here to beg me to tell you where your little pet is?"

"No need," Jeonghan replied. "I have exactly what I need right here."

It was clear Lee Kang was lost as Jeonghan moved around with ease, taking exactly what he needed before approaching the ancient vampire. He squatted before him, forcing them to make eye contact.

"I had grand plans. I was going to have you executed in front of the entire kingdom, let the people watch you suffer by a firing squad armed with holy bullets, but there has been a change of plans."

He casually took the empty blood bags and opened them one by one, not missing how Lee Kang fearfully watched his every move. He had never performed a drainage himself. Usually, that was Jisoo's job, but Jeonghan understood well enough how it worked. Besides, he didn't want anyone else to do it. This was his task alone. He was going to be the one who saved his husband's life and gave him the justice he deserved.

He kept his voice light, almost friendly, as he immersed himself in the task, relishing in the fear on his maker's face.

"There is something you will never understand, despite having roamed this Earth for so long. Seokmin isn't my other half, but he does complete me. We are two wholes that are stronger together. He is me, and I am him. And you, you tried to take him from me, but he's strong and returned to me. Now, he can live while you pay for your sins."

Lee Kang's eyes left the blood bags to look at Jeonghan desperately. He looked so pitiful, Jeonghan couldn't believe he had considered him a monster.

"Don't you want to know? The real reason for all of this?" He tempted.

Jeonghan hesitated for the briefest of seconds before shaking his head. "No reason could explain the torment nor heal the pain you've caused. The reason will never be good enough."

With that, he opened his mouth, his fangs glinting despite the low light of the dungeon. "I would say I take no pleasure in this, but" He smirked, "that would be a lie."

Chapter Text

It took exactly seventy-six hours for Lee Kang's blood to extract the poison from Seokmin's system. It took another thirty-eight before he finally woke up. Through it all, Jeonghan never left his side. He couldn't bear to take his eyes off Seokmin in case he disappeared again. He kept most everyone out, but Wonwoo and Chan were stubborn, always pushing their way in, and Jeonghan let them, knowing how much they loved Seokmin. The youngest vampire always brought blood with him, forcing Jeonghan to eat, telling him he needed to be in the best health so he could help Seokmin recover. The king ate then.

The rest of the palace was busy with tasks given to them. Lee Kang's body was in the process of being disposed of, dramatic measures being made to make sure he stayed dead. Jeonghan was not going to take any chances, not anymore. Seungcheol and Mingyu were overseeing repairs that were needed to the palace's structure after the attack. Seungkwan, eager to help in any way that he could, was assigned to assist Jisoo in matters of the state, helping to make the needed changes in the kingdom. Jeonghan knew that when Seokmin woke up, he would be proud of his young friend. Jihoon and Soonyoung were free as a way for Jeonghan to thank them for bringing his husband back. They promised to visit when Seokmin was well again. Jeonghan agreed, knowing that Seokmin would want to thank them as well.

It was early in the morning. Wonwoo had reluctantly left in the middle of the night after being called for his help. Chan had been carried out by Seungcheol an hour later. That left Jeonghan alone with the still-unconscious Seokmin. He lay by his side in their shared bed, tracing his finger along his husband's skin. He would sometimes talk to him, encouraging him to wake up, updating him on Bomi and the garden, and of course, how the members of the family they built were doing. Sometime after the sun began to rise, Jeonghan fell into a dreamless sleep.

"Hyung."

Jeonghan practically bolted upright, startled by the rough but sweet-sounding voice in the still room. He lit up seeing his husband awake and gazing at him. He survived. It worked. He was safe. The king would have wept if it hadn't been for Seokmin beating him to it. Alarmed, he gently pulled his husband into a hug, euphoric over the fact that he had him in his arms again.

"My Love, why are you crying?" Jeonghan murmured, stroking his hair.

Seokmin sniffed against his shoulder. "I missed you so much, Hyung. I thought I would never return."

"But you did," Jeonghan told him. He pulled away from the hug so he could wipe the other's tears and look him firmly in the eye. "You came back and you recovered. Thank you for being alive, Seokmin. Thank you for returning to me."

Seokmin buried his head into Jeonghan's chest and cried harder. The king let him. He would happily stay this way for all of eternity if it meant that Seokmin was okay. He resumed stroking his hair, needing to feel his husband in some way to reassure himself that this was, in fact, real and not some cruel dream.

"I was scared," Jeonghan admitted. "I couldn't feel the bond anymore, and I feared the worst, but I never lost hope. I knew you would return to me no matter what."

He could feel Seokmin nodding his head in agreement. "I felt you cry." He told him, voice small.

"I felt your pain despite the stars and darkness pulling me in. I couldn't leave knowing you were in such pain, but I wasn't sure how to get back."

Jeonghan was nearly in tears once more. He silently let them fall, tugging his husband impossibly closer. "You did well."

He told him that over and over again until their cries died down. Their mingled breaths were the only sounds in the large room until the door opened, revealing a sleepy Chan. It took a moment for the young vampire to assess the scene before him properly, but once he understood, he sprinted towards the bed, clinging to Seokmin like a child would their father.

"Hyung! You're awake!" He cheered.

Seokmin pulled away from Jeonghan to comfort the younger. "I'm awake," Seokmin told him with a fond smile.

Chan snuggled in impossibly closer. "I missed you so much. I couldn't lose you."

"You will never lose me," Seokmin promised, kissing the top of Chan's head.

Jeonghan knew that promise was for him as well.

The three of them spent the morning in the large bed, letting Seokmin properly relax after recovering. Wonwoo arrived near noon with blood meals for the three of them. He was brighter now, seeing his sire and friend awake and well, and Seokmin promised they would have their reunion soon. The royal doctor arrived an hour after that to check Seokmin's condition. All poison had been extracted, but the wound through his back would take a while to heal and would likely scar over. Jeonghan felt struck in the heart hearing that, but Seokmin didn't seem upset by it, later telling his husband it would serve as a reminder that he fought hard and survived.

After a couple more days of bed rest, Seokmin was up and about like nothing had ever happened. As promised, he spent time with Wonwoo in the library. The once-cold attendant pressed himself as close as he could to his sire as they read a book together in the still of the dawn. As predicted, Seokmin was beyond proud of Seungkwan's work and was pleased and touched to find that everyone had been working to make a better Ardmendia, not just for them, but for everyone. He cooed over Bomi, who seemed just as excited to see him, hoping all around him. His giggles seemed to make the palace brighter. He was in awe over how well the flowers grew in his absence, and when he passed by behind him, Jeonghan gave them a nod of acknowledgment, a sort of well done.

Seokmin took a rest on their bench. Jeonghan sat next to him, watching him. To him, the flowers couldn't compare to his husband's beauty. Nothing ever could. He was startled out of his lull when Seokmin suddenly asked him a question.

"What happened with Lee Kang?"

Jeonghan didn't want to think about him anymore, but Seokmin had a right to know. After all, he was a vital part of his take-down.

"With your help, I was able to break all the bonds he held, including my own. It weakened him, making him an easy kill." He told him.

He refused to tell him about the blood. He didn't want Seokmin thinking about the fact that he had a monster's blood coursing through him. No, he deserved peace, and Jeonghan would do anything to protect that for him.

"I helped?" Seokmin asked, sounding astonished.

Jeonghan hummed. "I felt you, in our bond, whispering to me, encouraging me. Through you, I was able to have the strength to go through with it." He explained.

Seokmin blinked, seeming as if he were trying to remember it. "Yes, I think I can recall that. I begged the stars to let me help you. I was terrified I was too late. I wanted to do something to help."

Jeonghan reached for his hand, their shared coldness, somehow warm. "And you did. You saved us. You saved me."

That night, they all sat around the spacious table in the grand hall for dinner. Just them and their family celebrating Seokmin. There was laughter and smiles. Light had returned to the palace once more in its brightest and purest form. Seokmin sat, taking it all in, staring into the faces he had come to love most in this new life. His eyes finally landed on Jeonghan, who was already looking at him. They shared a smile, not needing words or even their bond to communicate how they felt. They knew. They would always know.

Seokmin, a man who had been denied love nearly his whole life, was now surrounded by it for an eternity. A sun that would never burn out. All because of an unknown prince.