Chapter Text
“ The first steep is for your enemy, the second for the servants, the third for your wife, the fourth for your mistress, the fifth for your business partner and the sixth you keep for yourself ” that was the wisdom in which his countrymen had expressed in preparing tea. A ritual which was to be observed and honored, a way of life so deeply ingrained into the fabric of society that it dictated the social order by a single glance. Ling knew this intimately just as every person in his homeland had, they it seems the English were under a different impression. He had heard of the empire's great hunger for gems and gold yet that compared little to their lust for spices and tea. Why it was that all consuming lust that filled his fathers coffers as it seemed the English have just as much love for the brew as them.
Yet it was clear to him now that had been a mistake. He can only watch in bewilderment as the queen of the empire boasts about the freshness of the pot that is set before them while her servant pours the brew into three equal purple porcelain cups. He waits for the servant to throw out the first batch yet as he surveys the room he doesn’t find a rinse rack or a tea pet.
Is he going to throw it out the window on top of whichever unfortunate person may stand below or empty it onto the carpet? He expected the lather as it would explain its rather poor shape and strange designs of the rug beneath there feet an eye sore of red, gold and white.
Instead the servant does neither setting the cups aside before picking up a small container pouring its contents into the tea, a thick white liquid mixing with tea.
It took a moment for Ling to identify as milk.
It was milk.
Milk!
He was pouring milk into the tea Ling could not believe the sight before him, he was even more aghast at the man swirls the tea for a moment before adding three brown hardened cubes of sugar! Had he completely gone mad? He can feel MeiMei next to him stiffen at the sight along with Shou-Mei who sits in her mistress’s lap.
What a horrible thing to do.
He waits for the queen to say something, anything to have the man sacked or reprimanded at the very least, instead she thanks him with a gentle smile before turning her attention to them.
“I can not begin to express my gratitude and excitement to have the both of you as my guest. It is a great honor” The western queen praises taking the smallest sip of her tea. While her servant hands MeiMei and him their own cups and saucers.
Had she also gone mad? He can not help but think as he watches the foreign queen sipping at the tea calmly not an ounce of disgust written on her face.
Fu had once told him and Fan Lan that where there was tea there was peace. A subtle way of telling whether a people could be reasonable, for if there was tea there are rules and structures if not then there is anarchy and violence. As he finds himself looking down upon the contents of this cup which seemed to have been pulled from the Yongding, he could see why peace between his homeland and the great beast of the west was strenuous at best. He takes a sip of tea out of politeness only to regret it a moment later. Against his deepest wish he swallows the liquid down, he can not afford to be perceived as rude or difficult; he was a guest and must conduct himself as such. Meimei also seems to share the same though as he watches her down her cup in one go as if she was drinking baijiu and not tea even if baijiu would have been more preferable, it would certainly help take the edge off of this interaction.
“ The honor is ours my Queen” He says seating aside his tea upon the small table before him anything to get away from the cup, rising from the rather uncomfortable setty, clapping his hands together before giving a rather low bow, keeping his eyes firmly locked upon the river water in the cup they call tea. The shuffling of fabric a moment later alerts him that MeiMei has done the same. They both stay in that position backs straight, hands neatly classed together, eyes casted downward, they could have stayed in that position all day if need be, years of courtly manners beaten into them since before they could comprehend what it meant to be their father’s children.
Honor, respect and duty had been beating into there every breath anything else would have been sacrilegious, if not treasonous. Thus they stand bowing before a queen of madness and drugs.
“ Please do not bow upon my account. I am only a princess not a queen, may god save the king” the queen no princess says in a way that is clear she is not used to receiving such a greeting.
The more he learned about the west the more confused he became. If she truly is only a princess why then does her husband sit at the helm of the empire and not his father. More importantly, how was he to ensure his work well done when it appears he and MeiMei have been delegated over to the princess not even a secondary power.
God saved the king.
Such a strange notion. If the King truly did need to be saved, why was he king? Where the rumors true than, had the king truly got mad? As many claimed, a mad king leading a mad country. It would appear more than ever, he must tread carefully from now on if he is to have any hope of glimpse this mad king or his son the beast of England.
“ My apologies, I am still not fully accustomed to your ways” He says truthfully, still not rising from his position only rising when he notices the English princess flick of her wrist inviting him and MeiMei to rise. He is careful to keep his eyes straight ahead focusing his gaze carefully on the wall behind where the light haired beta sits on the chair of painted gold and velvet. The princess lady’s maids surrounded her like statues in a garden or a crows over a corpse.
“ Oh there is no need to apologize, my job as hostess is to guide the both of you through the season” She says simply with a light chuckle waving away any worry of impriority, her elm eyes kind but observant. She takes one final sip of her tea before setting it aside upon the small marble table to her right.
“ Speaking of which, let me see.” She states, gesturing for MeiMei to step forward. He can feel her eyes on him even as he keeps his carefully forward only giving the slight incline of his head which seems to be enough as MeiMei steps forward carefully Shou-Mei protectively wrapping herself around her mistresses neck. The Princess examined MeiMei carefully, keen eyes taking in every detail from her hair black as the finest ink, her skin clear as rice paper with a similar complexion, posture straight, nails painted pink. Each observation gaining a quiet hum of approval. The Princess even goes as far to examine her teeth at one point asking a bewildered MeiMei to open her mouth. It is only after all of this does the princess seem satisfied allowing MeiMei to return back to his side a faint blush dusting her cheeks as they both retake there seats upon the overly soft setty. He is a bit surprised she did not insist upon inspecting her body. He admonished himself for the thought this was not the inner palace and nor would it ever be.
“ Lovely, my dear, I assure you will have no issues finding a lovely mate” the princess praises, sounding quite pleased with her examination. Her attention pinned wholly upon the pig who tries her best not to wither under such scrutiny.
A skill she shall need ample supply of if she is to live amongst beasts.
“I see you like the tea that’s good you shall be invited to many in the future” The older beta laughs slightly signally for he servant to refill MeiMei’s abandoned cup repeating the same nerve racking ritual before handing the cup to a less then pleased MeiMei.
At least she manages to keep her face neutral even if he could see her posture stiffen
“ Thank you, your grace” MeiMei thanks taking the cup handed to her yet does not take a sip instead placing it in her lap much to Shou-Mei’s dismay.
The Princess does not notice or pretends not to at least as the conversation continues on.
“ I have completed a list of all the eligible candidates this season for you to look at dear” She says happily gesturing for one of her ladies in waiting to step forward, a pale faced thin woman with brown hair the color of bark in her hands a rather large stack of papers. She briskly crosses over to where MeiMei and him sit, carefully handing the stack of papers to MeiMei, taking painstaking effort to ensure their hands do not touch. Ling pushes down his feeling of indignation as the pale faced woman returns to her lady’s side. MeiMei stares at the papers only a glance before handing them over to him with the careful ease of someone who has never made a decision for themselves. He takes the papers flipping through them one by one, turning slightly so MeiMei might see. There are 102 in total, organized by rank with a brief description at the bottom with a small portrait of each candidate.
It does not take him long to see the problem nor does it ease the bread coiling in his gut as he goes through every paper carefully.
All of them are women , every single one of them. He takes a breath as he reorganizes the papers, reminding himself that the English had a different idea on what was proper when it came to dynamics.
A simple misunderstanding nothing more.
“I believe there has been a miscommunication, your majesty, my sister is in search of a husband” He clarifies carefully setting aside the stack of papers next to his long forgotten tea. He watches as the princess and her ladies in waiting face shift to shock,to disbelief then contempt, before finally settling on a cold politeness, throwing MeiMei a few pitying glances.
What they must think? That I am some cruel and monstrous man forcing his sister into a marriage that could mean almost certain death if she were ever to become with child. If he was the monster what does that make his father or his country men who had followed this path far before the English had even though of crossing the sea spreading there death and drugs with them.
Ling can not help but muse bitterly.
“ I see, I shall keep that in mind and as for you do you have any preference upon a mate for yourself” the princess asks clippedly clearly under the impression that it was him who had the backwards way of thinking and not the other way around.
A mate? They did not have mates; they had wife’s, husbands and the occasional concubine but they did not have mates.
He does not take offense, it was bound to happen, he or MeiMei would say or do something deemed unthinkable better to get it out of the way now and better for him to take the brunt of it if he hopes to have the Princess assistance.
“ No, your majesty I do not, I am not here to search for love, I am merely here to ensure my sister finds her match” He says slowly to ensure he would not be misunderstood. He spoke nothing but the truth he was not looking for love nor was he looking for a wife they had nothing to offer him but a pleasant enough husband for the pig so he might claim his place at his father’s table and bring about the change that had consumed his every being.
“Very well, I am honored that you have put your faith in me dear, I promise you I will find you the best husband within the ton” The Princess spoke gently as if MeiMei was some frittered animal completely ignoring him, her attention firmly placed on MeiMei. Ling had no doubt the Princess would do everything in her power to find MeiMei a husband no doubt believing herself to be the one to save MeiMei from her cruel fate.
The English he found had a habit of believing themselves the only solution to any problem.
“ Thank you, your grace I am humbled by your kindness though I do have a question” MeiMei asks humbly the faintest hint of hope, lancing her voice.
Oh gods above.
“Yes my dear?” The princess ask curiously no doubt expecting MeiMei to speak of even more horrors that have been forced upon her. Before he can even stop her, MeiMei is off.
“ Well you see, I was wondering if the man known as Fullmetal was among the list of candidates, I heard about his great deeds while crossing the salt and I have become an admirer of the man, I would be most grateful to her grace if she could make my interdiction” MeiMei says in a single breath, stars sparkling in her eyes, a wide smile splitting her lips. Ling would have let out a sigh at MeiMei’s antics if it wasn’t for the look on the Princess' face.
Stern and cold
“ I am afraid that is not possible my dear as he is not suitable for a woman such as yourself” she spoke with an air of finality and authority harsh in a way only a person whose only job was to command others. The smile immediately drops from MeiMei’s face, heartbreak evident in her face, her eyes becoming glossy, Shou-Mei hugging her in an attempt of comfort. He knew this reaction was coming, he knew that MeiMei would cry and whine once she learned her dream was only a dream. The Princess immediately softens upon seeing her guest being to sniff.
“ Worry not, we shall find you a fine husband finer than Fullmetal would have been” the Princess promises in the same way a parent consults a child who has lost their favorite toy. After a few minutes of MeiMei sniffs she composes herself enough for the Princess to continue.
“ I imagine you shall be in need of a new wardrobe while here, it is a bit late to call the modist to prepare garments for your first outing but your current wardrobe should suffice for the moment, I hope to have the both of you fitted before the end of week” the older women she comments picking up her tea which had long grown cold yet takes a sip none the less clearly needing it. This to he had also anticipated on, they had packed lightly partly because the English would no doubt mold them into their standards and MeiMei already had very light to speak off.
“ As for your cat” the Princess starts uncertainly leveling Shou-Mei with a critical gaze, Shou-Mei levels one back at her. Seemingly having inherited her mistress temper.
“ Shou-Mei, is a Panda your grace” MeiMei interrupts clarifying, bringing a hand to her shoulder to place MeiMei back in her lap.
Same difference to them they would look at sesix and call it a deer.
“ As for your Panda, I encourage you to leave her at the palace or in the menagerie when you go outing, I am sure she would get along very well with the other animals” upon hearing the Princesses advice Shou-Mei face scrunched up indignantly, clearly disguised at the though of share any space with any other create that was not her mistress.
The pig had spoiled the little creature rotten as far as he was aware the two had been together for as long as any one could remember nothing had separated the two not even when MeiMei had been ordered by their Father to do so before leaving. He didn’t even know Shou-Mei was aboard the ship until they were nearly two weeks out to sea with no real reason to turn back for a single panda. He highly doubts MeiMei would take this lying down yet to his surprise she does.
“ I see thank you, your Grace” MeiMei says simply with no sign of a fight or fit in sight. Before the conversation can carry on any further, one of our servants appears from the hall who approaches the pale faced lady in waiting whispering something urgently which must have been rather important as she in turn leaves her spot from behind the princess to whisper the same message into her ear, her face turning stiff before settling on calm as she addresses us.
“ If you will excuse me, a matter requiring my attention has come, Brimley please show our guests to their quarters” the princess says apologetically, already risking from her chair and making her way to the door. We both stand bowing muttering understandings while her man servant Brimley gives an affirmative before turning to face him and MeiMei a neutral expression on his face.
“ If you would please follow me” Brimley says simply before turning, MeiMei and him follow close behind with Lan Fan and Fu bringing up the rear. They travel through multiple hallways, up three flights of stairs, several turns and rooms which leads into more complex rooms all while Brimley offers little piece of information about some rather important piece of furniture or ornament this continues on until they finally stop in the middle of one hallway with peach colored walls.
Not even the inner palace is not so confusing nor convoluted. He could not help but wonder if I was designed in such a way to throw off evil spirits or intruders.
“You shall be staying here my prince and your sister the princess shall stay in the adjacent room” Brimley states gesture to the pair of double white bound.
The adjacent room as in they would be sharing a joining chamber!
They must surely be insane wholly insane.
Before he can open his mouth and say something improper Fu steps in thanking the princess man kindly before opening the double door Lan Fan herding him and MeiMei inside with likely fussing pups the doors closing firmly behind them. They stand in the rather large saloon of white and light blue before making their way to the rather garish furniture taking a hard seat upon the seaty.
“ Well that went well” He says with fictitious joy sneaking into the rather uncomfortable couch cushions while MeiMei sits stiff as a rod with a disgruntled Shou-Mei still fuming at being calling a
Cat. He stares up at the painted ceiling at the ugliest depiction of a baby he has ever seen; he wasn't even sure it was a baby with those wings on its back. He is pulled from this thought when he notices MeiMei had yet to make some scathing remarks on his part instead replaced by a slight tremor in his shoulder.
“ Do not tell me what she said got to you?” He asks carefully, not wanting to set her off yet again.
“ No it’s just…you heard her I wouldn’t be able to court the man of my dream, I would be able to have Shou-Mei and Ling the tea!” MeiMei dissolved into sobs, fat tears rolling down her cheeks, her scent turning pungent as her emotions swell leading him to cringe away. He had expected tear yet he had not expected them to such an extent that left her gasping and snot to pour out. He feels he should do something to make some attempt at comfort but what could he possibly say? Sorry the man you feel in love with wasn’t real to begin with but don’t worry we’ll find you a husband who believes your no a woman because you possessed a cock and shall brew tea with milk which you will be forced to drink for the rest of your days? Luckily it is Lan Fan who comes to rescue, kneeling down before MeiMei.
“It will be alright my Lady, you heard the princess she’ll find you a good husband one that will love Shou-Mei as much as you and once your lady of the house hold you can have tea made the proper way” Lan Fan soothes trying her best to wipe way her lady’s tears which seemed to be never ending much to her surprise she is sweep up into a hug by MeiMei whom clings to her desperately crying into her protector’s shoulder.
“ There, there” he mutters awkwardly patting his sisters back not sure what else to do. After serval minutes of sobs and snot MeiMei cries turn to hiccup, her eyes red rimmed and tears streaks, leaving red angry lines on her face as she lift her head from Lan Fan soaked shoulder.
“You’re right Lan Fan, thank you now help me pick out the best possible outfit for ball” MeiMei says shakily confidence slowly returning to her voice sweeping her eyes with her sleeve before taking Lan Fan hand pulling her throughs her own chambers disappearing into another set of doors leveling him and Fu alone.
That was surprisingly painless. He muse pushing himself up from the seaty while Fu unpacks his belongs. He would rate stay in his room and sleep after such a long journey but that would have to wait he had a ball to attend and MeiMei would rather gouge out his eyes then allow her to miss an opportunity. His only saving grace is the Princess will be acting as chaperone .
“I am terribly sorry, but unfortunately I will not be able to attend the ball with you” Princess Charlotte informs them as they stand in the main entrance way of the palace.
Well fuck.
“ What are we to do then?” He asks hoping he will get his wish: take off the stuffy clothes and roll into bed until his muscle being to atrophy or however long Fu would allow him to.
“ Unfortunately, you will have to sit this one out my dear, I am truly sorry” the princess apologizes as MeiMei wilts her shoulders sagging, eyes down cast.
“Your majesty if I may, would it be possible for me to attend as MeiMei’s chaperone in your stead” He says before he can really think about what he is saying leaving everyone including him surprised. MeiMei turns to him with hopeful eyes while a slight frown settles on the princess' face.
“Yes, however I would prefer to be there to ease your arrival into society” the older beta says carefully, her eyes firmly set on him.
He’s gotten this far might as well see where it goes.
“ With all do respect, your majesty if Meimei is to find a husband and remain with England she must learn to navigate society by herself” He says mustering all the princely edict of the imperial court an easy well meaning smile pulling at the corner of his lips is eyes becoming slit like as he holds the English monarch gaze.
While his reasoning was true, if MeiMei was to remain in the foreign court she must become accustomed to their ways and slights. It would be no favor to her to shelter her from the reality of what is to come. Besides that it was evident he would not gain any more influence nor information within the palace.
“ Very well, I shall have Brimsely bring the carriage around, I do hope you enjoy your night” the princess relents casting a look to the man who nod before turning away.
“Oh thank you, your grace, you will not regret this I swear” MeiMei squeals happily, flitting about the princess asking a million questions such as who shall be in attendance, what is the proper way to except a gentleman’s offer to dance.
“ Are you sure this is wise?” Lan Fan asks, pulling him aside, her gaze flickering to MeiMei before back to him. Rightfully distrustful of the English court and the Princess.
“It’s either this or hear her moaning all night. A few hours of fun never killed anyone” Ling tries to keep his tone playful and light even if he shares the same reservations. Lan Fan looks at him now every well that multiple people have died from fun.
To be far those incidents usually involved poison and alterer motives.
“ Come on Ling, I don't want to be late!” MeiMei shouts, pulling him towards the open doors of the entrance.
It’s only a few hours, let her dance and sing, and he’ll learn all he can.
The Hueghs estate was grand and loud, much like its owner, a middle aged beta man with coal black hair slicked back, a pair of spectacles sitting on the bridge of his nose, with olive green eyes that seemed rather cold from a distance. Ling had expected a stern and practical man who had a good standing within the English court for him to be hosting one of the first balls of the so called season. Instead he was greeted by an overly friendly and eccentric man who shook his hand so fast he’s surprised it didn’t pop out of the socket, he also twirled MeiMei around as if she weighed nothing and even had the gall to crack a joke at Lan Fan’s less then pleased expression before cracking the three of them in the back and telling them that they could come to him for anything before disappearing into the crowd of his own ball. It isn’t long after that MeiMei entranced by the splendor and glamour of our surrounds does she take of her pink mamianqun and bijai flowing behind her as she disappears into the crowd of equality colorful attendees. A stark contrast to Lan Fans full black garbe and his own nearly black indigo magua golden embroidery of dragons, chrysanthemums, running along the sleeves, collar and breast. He dared to say he looked rather plain in comparison to the English court whom seemed to favor velvet, lace, gems and feathers? He shook his head putting the English courts bizarre fashion choices instead, turning to face Lan Fan.
“Key an eye on her” He orders she does not need to be told twice quickly following behind her mistress. Leaving him alone to navigate through the English court who had not disattached their eyes from him the moment he had stepped onto the premises. He is about to try and find the best way to approach the members of the ton only the decision to be taken out of his hands as a group of nearly six ladies of the English court approach him accompanied by their mothers.
“ Good evening” He greets surprised to see his new audience. Back home it was left to him to engage others in conversation not the other way around, it felt rather strange to be on the receiving end.
“ Good evening, My Prince” the ladies of the English court patriot one another dressed in their eerily similar pastel dresses accompanied by their equally observant mothers who seemed to measure him for every thing he was worth.
“ Is there something I can assist you with?” He asks still finding the concept of a lady approaching him of their own free valuation without some underlying motives. Though he supposed that was unfair everyone has alter motive for anything they do he certainly did. Even so can not help but put up his defense falling into the charming foreign prince act.
“We simply wanted to make the acquaintance of our new guest” The closet lady to him purrs making her intentions quite clear. It was rather unfortunate she seemed to have chosen him rather than some other member of her own court to sink her claws in.
No, he thought upon careful observation it’s not that. I am simply the newest oddity for them to pick and prod at. The realization does not surprise him, he half expected such a thing to happen. People are often curious of what they do not know especially when that thing can offer them something.
“ Ah, see, allow me to introduce myself. I am Ling Yoa, ninth Prince of China” He greets, kindly folding his hand into the sleeves of his magua bowing slightly as proper etiquette dictates. His efforts are rewarded with hums of approval and pleased glances from the older woman of the court.
Nine such a strange thing to say when not even two years ago he was 12th.
“ I do hope the journey was not too terrible?” A lady dressed in a rather bright yellow dress that reminded him much of a sunflower, her kind eyes cast down. The question is genuine, not the polite ones that people ask to seem as if they care. He watches the noble women being pushed aside by what he assumes are her sisters given their similar appears, fluttering their lashes at him at in an attempt to woo him.
“ It was not preferable, at least know that I am here” he answers the questions with a gentle smile directed at the english lady in yellow an note of filtration tinging his voice. Perhaps of filtration tone was not necessary as it seems to be adding wind to the flames as every lady of the english court rather viciously attempt to be the next person to get his attention asking question after question which he answer patiently. Yet when he sees the slight looks of disbelieving upon the faces of the sisters in the lady in yellow he can not bring himself to care.
He knows what it is like to be overshadowed by one’s siblings.
“Well, we were hoping to see you on the dance floor” someone to his right tells him rather hopefully.
Dance? Was that how the English court through dance? How strange.
He had seen the English court dance floor, he had seen the members of the court sway openly together yet he thought it was a performance of duty something everyone part takes in not by choice but to uphold the tradition.
“Ah, perhaps in another time I’m currently looking for my sister” He deflects the question eyes scanning for a plausible reason to leave his captive audience not wishing to waste any more time or worse give the court the impression he was in search of a wife. He scans the ballroom he can see the musicians playing in the far concern, he makes note of the groups the court has broken of into with the man seeming to stay on the fringers while the women fill the space, his eyes flick to the dance floor catching a glimpse of MeiMei dancing with a women before his eyes flick to one of the many tables piled with refreshments and delicacies, he spots a rather tasty looking lemon tart.
Wait, MeiMei is dancing with a woman!
“ Oh that is such a shame, would you be willing to save a dance for me next time” One of the ladies within the group asks but he can barely hear her as his eyes stay firmly locked onto MeiMei twirling about with an English lady dressed in ivory and grey.
“Yes, perhaps if you will excuse me” He leaves the group quickly. It takes everything in him not to run onto the dance floor,separate MeiMei from the English lady and shake some sense into her.
That stupid girl.
“ I thought I told you to keep an eye on her” He snaps approaching Lan Fan who observes from one of the marble columns nearest the dance floor, a flute wine in hand, she barely even pays him any mind as he storms over.
“ I am” She answers shortly as if the event transpiring before them did not mean possibly ruin. He notices a few glances being cast their way no doubt dying to see the sightless hint of scandal. Ling takes a deep breath before switching over to their native tongue
[“ We can not allow her to get the wrong ideas” ] the words flow from him smoothly, almost hiding the hiss in his voice. His eyes remain fixed upon MeiMei and the lady in grey tangled in a fast pace dance reminding him much of the silk dancers his father was known to favorite.
[“ It is a dance my Lord nothing more” ] Lan Fan assures I’m that even voice of her that she always uses when he is being unreasonable. Him unreasonable, he could not help the click of his tongue watching as MeiMei and her lady smile at each other seemingly happy to be in each others presence. Ling feels himself seize up at the sight turning to Lan Fan ready to order her to separate the two. The words never make it past his lips as he turns to look at Lan Fan who levels him an all knowing look. She knows just as much as him that this was more than a dance yet society forces them to let it go unnamed and said.
[“ very well” ] he grits out turning on his heel walking towards the terrace. The cold night air bites at his face, a calming reprieve from the chaos of the ballroom. Gods how could MeiMei be so foolish, now he knows he has no right to cast judgment upon his half sister her taste are her own as are his and he could careless about what she does behind closed doors. However when she so shamelessly flattens her intentions for everyone to see that was different. The English may have their own ideas of marriage and priority, yet that did not change the rules their father set upon them no matter how much they wish. He breaths trying to calm the frustration rising within him, he would find MeiMei a decent husband the arrangement they set would not concern him. She would be married and that would be the end of it, he would return home to claim his spot on Fathers council and eventually work out an agreement of his own with a politically advantageous wife. He had come to accept that fate as he hoped MeiMei had too if he had to, however if he had drag her kicking and cursing to the altar then so be it.
“You and that sister of yours seem to be an awfully popular chaps, chinaman” The voice behind him bemused. He is not surprised by the newcomer that would imply he had not noticed the man or his companion stalking him since he left the ballroom. Rather he is annoyed to have his moment of peace ruined again.
“Ain’t that right, I do hope for Brendan sake she does not have a fancy for laudanum" A second grating pompous voice comments. He does not turn around to answer such insults; he was better than that even yet that does not stop him from locking his jaw in anger at the English man’s words.
Yes, of course. Let us not hope that my people are not addicted to the drugs that you insist on shoving down their throats for the simple reason that your ruler cannot stand to let anything go untouched by his hand.
“ God, I hope no she’s rather pretty for an alpha, shame” a third husky voice joins the choir, as arrogant as the last.
Will she be pretty enough when her money and title are filling your coffers? His thoughts must have shown of his face as he turns to grace the Englishman with his face for the one closest to him lets out a low laugh.
“ It’s a joke mate no need to give me that look” the first Englishman a beta with a subtle scent of olive oil and smoke smiles in an easy manner it would’ve been charming if it were not for the words he spoke earlier.
“ You are?” he asks, though comes out more of a statement his patience is running near an end for the English and ways. The Englishman takes his tone stride offering a hand as he introduces himself.
“Colin, Brigerton” he says his name as though it has a meaning, sway even yet Ling is unaware of such a thing and greets the man before him in the same manner short and to the point.
“ Ling Yoa” He takes Colin’s hand and gives it a firm shake for he is nothing if not polite.
“ Yeah we know, everyone on in the ton knows who you are” the second man quips yet another beta dressed in a simple black waistcoat.
“ Quite being a prick, William” Colin chides his associate yet there is no real bite to it.
“ I am just trying to give our guest a proper welcome” William snaps back his rather pathetic fangs are up upon display like a dog growling a wolf and believing itself brave.
“ You can give him a proper welcome by inviting him to smoke like you said or are you pussying out” The third Englishman, an alpha with a strong scent of sandalwood and musk, teases the beta next to him, sending the other into quite a fit.
“ Fuck off, I was getting to that, well it’s ruined know, how about it you up for a smoke?” William snaps at the alpha before turning to him, including his head back towards the ballroom.
He most certainly did not want smoke he had no taste for it and not to mention, the trio had leftover rather ill taste in his mouth.
“ I do not see why not” He concedes with a simple shrug allowing the group to shepherd him back into the ballroom before exiting, guiding him through a series of rooms before finally entering what he could only assume to be the drawing room. The smell of smoke and liquor heavy in the air. He would stay around, allow them to talk of their business plans and travels, find out as much as he could, and then leave. Colin hands him a drink which he takes with a practice smile before taking a sip.
It is bitter on his tongue.
“ er- Is he dead?” The voice above him asks though he is so delirious that he cannot be sure. He had left the drawing room after near a hour or listening to the fruitless rambling voice of the ton. His energy quickly slipping away from him as his need for food increased. He excused himself and slipped away in the hopes of consuming something before he was left laying on the floor yet the twisting halls the estate confused him to the point he stop upon another room sitting down heavily upon the floor promising himself he would only rest for a moment yet a moment became another then another as his eyes became heavy and his limbs weak.
“Fo-food” he rasps out voice cracked from disuse at the disembodied voice above.
“What?” The voice asks startled as he though him dead but that was ridiculous he was not dead just ravenous.
“ Fo-d, please” he breathes out trying his best to open his heavy eyes. He can hear the sounds of shifting fabric, footsteps on wood floors and the sound of a door opening. His heart drops praying the voice has left to retrieve some food and has not left him here to transpire. He feels his worries ease as he feels a hand wrap around him dragging him upon what he assumes is a warm custom forcing his head to title upward a. He manages to open his eyes only to be met with what he can only describe as the embodiment of the sun. Molten golden eyes, framed by hair like sunlight, skin kissed by a summer’s day with a scent of pomegranate tea, fresh soil and ink used in tasman.
He was wrong.
He had succumbed to hunger.
He was dead and the empress of heaven was staring down at him with star hung eyes.
[“ Great goddess of the east, I honor your warming embrace, which banish the shadows and breathes life into the world, I offer my reverence to source of all warm and light let your hand guide my path for when I am lost in the darkness”] the prayer tumbles from his cracked lips as the goddess continues to stare down at him a flash a bewilderment creeps across her ethereal features before smoothing out into something Ling could not quite play before any prayer could leave his lips he can hear food steps grow closer along with the smell of food which made his stomach turn painfully. The goddess looks up focusing on something he could not see from his position yet he does not have time to think about it further as the goddess attention once again returns to him with a small sandwich in hand bringing it carefully to his lips which he inhales one after another.
He was dead, laying in the lap of a goddess who was feeding him. He did not know what he had done in a this life to warrant such a blessing or what crime he had committed to have this moment be his final moment of glory yet he could not bring himself to think about that when there was food in front of him.
Once his hunger was sated he come to realize two thing firstly that he was not indeed dead and secondly the lovely omega before him was not a goddess perhaps half but not fully. Once his strength returns to him he carefully move out of the omegas lap and the boy sitting beside her who must have been the disembodied voice he had heard before.
“ Thank you kindly you have saved me” he says gratefully once he carefully moving out of the goddess lap looking upon his saviors fully before bowing in thanks his forehead pressed to the cool floor hand folded before him.
“ Are you feeling alright now Sir” the boy asks once he raises sitting comfortably upon his knees. The boy could be no older than MeiMei’s by a year or two with kind eyes and a soft voice he stood rather then sat a noticeable cane by his side.
“ Indeed I am thanks to the two of you” he smiles his attention solely focused on the woman seated before him. How strange it was for him to find such beauty in her existence, he found that he desired to learn as much as he could about the mysterious omega who has seemingly cured his horrid affliction. He may not have to make such agreements with his future wife after all.
“ Please don’t thank me it was all Ed’s doing” the boy humbly gestures to the omega next to him, his sister he wager upon looking at the pair more closely. Ed? Short for Edwina or Eden?
Ling could not find himself to care.
“ Well then thank you, Ed, Xihe” He likes the way the name rolls off his tongue smooth and warm.
“ I don’t mean to be rude but why were you passed out in the study of Lord Hugh's estate” the boy asks in a way that was clear he did not mean to pry. It seems at least that not all English man were as rude they appeared.
“ Poor timing mostly, I am afraid the gods cursed me with a never needing appetite and little energy as you both have just witnessed” The response comes easily to him, his eyes tracking every minor shift in Lady’s Ed’s expression as he spoke.
“ Truthfully I was seeking a refuge from all the attention your people have bestowed upon me even if I wished they showed more interest in my sister” He laughs, continuing finding it rather easily to speak to the siblings. Lady Ed moves to open her mouth; he waits impatiently to wonder how the voice of a goddess would sound only to be interrupted by a familiar blade being pressed to her throat.
“ Ah Lan Fan, I can assure you everything is alright. Would you please let her go?” Ling greets his former shadow who now stand behind lady Ed a dagger pressed to her throat while the boy stumbles back at Lan Fans sudden appearance. He watches in shock as before Lan Fan can withdraw lady Ed grabs Lan Fan and seamlessly flips her top her back in a single moment dagger clatter to the floor as she stand quickly putting herself between Lan Fan and her brother.
Gods just who exactly was this woman?
“ They mean no harm Lan Fan I am sure Lady Ed was merely startled by you” He quickly informs Lan Fan who quick gets back to her feet putting herself between him and the siblings. Gods he hope this would not ruin his chances of making her a concubine. Surely father would not be to cross with him if he himself secured an alliance with the English? The tension does not leave Lan Fan shoulder nor does she move but she does bow in apology.
“ My apologies my lady” she apologizes not sounding the least bit sorry. Yet it seems enough for the siblings who give a brisk nod before fleeing the room much to his disappointment. He will have to remedy this least he let thing opportunity slip through his finger. Before he could think any further Lan Fan turns to him looking rather grave.
“ My lord we have a situation” her voice gives nothing away yet she does not need to say more for him to guess.
MeiMei what has the foolish pig done now?
“ Of course we do, can it not wait, I have a rather pressing matter to attend to” He asks, knowing it can not as he raising to his feet already following Lan Fan out of the room and back into the ballroom. It does not take long to find the nature of the problem as he watches MeiMei practically jumping with joy as she holds a rather hesitant lord hostage by the arm.
First it was the English women now this surely MeiMei can not be this socially inept.
[“ Ling can you believe this is Roy Mustang the, Roy Mustang”] MeiMei squeals as he approaches making his ears ring, he can not help but notice the glances being thrown their way by the ton.
Lovely simply lovely.
[“Yes, that is very nice MeiMei, I am sure he would very much appreciate it if you let him go”] He says pulling MeiMei off the man he thought was a myth was inspired to find he was one of their own. Lord Mustang gives a relieved smile before bowing in greeting.
[“Thanks, Princy, it’s nice to meet yeah”] the myth says in the most informal country accent that Ling has ever heard that it takes him a full minute to fully comprehend the word that came from the older alpha’s mouth. He and MeiMei share a look that goes unnoticed by Lord Mustang whose attention is caught elsewhere along follows the man’s gaze to two figures quickly approaching.
“ Ed, Al there you are, Ed I am so sorry, I would have never -” Lord Mustang attempts to apologize to the boy, Al and Ed before Al cuts him off.
“ Ed is rather tired, I believe it is best that we return home for the night” Al states curtly to the alpha who stiffs but nods nonetheless.
What are the chances the myth and the goddess know each other? Even more, they are related based upon their scents. Ling would figure out that later right now he had to prevent MeiMei from jumping upon Lord Mustang or his children who make to leave.
“It's such a shame, you're leaving so soon but I suppose it can not be helped being a war hero such as yourself must be exhausting, Fullmetal” one of the lady of the ton comments eyes raking up and down Al in a not so subtle manner.
He can not help the breath that leaves his lungs.
Him that boy he is Fullmetal?
He had noticed the cane yet many men of ton seemed to have one. He could not help but wonder what it is making up for recalling the story of how the man had lost a leg or an arm, one of the two.
He is so distracted that he does not stop MeiMei as she latches onto her new target.
[“ Ling, It's Fullmetal!”] MeiMei squeals, grabbing onto the boy who flushes at the sudden embrace looking rather lost as MeiMei animatedly confesses her love for him in rapid fire Han.
“MeiMei! I am terribly sorry” He apologizes for what feels like the hundredth time that night attempting to pry MeiMei way from Fullmetal while Ed does the same creating a rather odd game of tug war which end with Ling prying MeiMei of the poor boy who topples backwards into his sister falling to the hard ground in a tangle of limbs.
And limb.
“ By the gods” His words leave him in a rush as he stares at the porcelain leg that lays before him and the siblings of the sun who curse at the sudden turn of events. Ling stand there rooted to the spot gripping MeiMei arm in a bruising grip as Al and Lord Mustang fret over Ed who looks less than pleased red velvet dress pooling around her like a puddle of vibrant blood.
“Ed! Do you need me to pop it back in?” Lord Mustang hesitantly asks quickly snatching up the porcelain limb.
Again! Was this a regular occurrence? He felt his head being to spin as he watches Lady Ed shakes her head letting out a frustrated sigh.
“No, just help me up, will yeah?” Lady Ed says in a distinctly male voice. He can feel his stomach drop at the sound as reality crashes down around him. Ling watches in horror as she or rather he is lifted into Lord Mustangs arms with practiced ease.
“You, your Fullmetal?” The words leave his lips as he watches Ed warps his arms around Lord Mustang neck those golden eyes staring into his with mirth a slight laugh leaving his perfectly painted lips as he responds.
[“ Yes, Fattass I am”]
“ MeiMei did you know that the English have a custom of dressing their omegas in women’s clothing” his voice breaks the heavy silence of the carriage, he lends forward his elbows placed on his knees, his head in his hands. Shame and mortification still coursing through his veins even after an hour of leaving the Hughes estate shortly after the Mustangs. Across from him drowning in her own misery MeiMei’s head snaps up.
“ Yes, did you not read any of the books Father gave us?” She asks rhetorically knowing he in fact had not. He could not see her face fully in the confines of the carriage yet he did not need to he could feel the frustration seeping out through her.
“ Why do I even ask yes they do you would know that if you were not so busy getting drunk at very pub you could find” She snaps a moment later turning her towards the small window thin gleams of
Moonlight fills the space. He found himself lost in though mind running through everything possible scenario that did not end with this night in disaster yet it was already too late for that. Their first introduction to the new court and make complete fools of themselves. He’ll consider themselves lucky if even one prospects, comes forward after all of this. Those are the thoughts that should be coming to the forefront of his mind, plague his every thought his hard work slipping through his fingers yet he can’t stop thinking about angry golden eyes attached to a harsh tongue, a fox dressed as a goddess.
He feels embarrassment and unease settle within him as he thinks about how he had acted before Fullmetal. He can not help but feel even more unease wonder just how many of the “Lady” he had spoken with were even women at all the whole experience, leaving a familiar with their taste in his mouth.
“What’s wrong are you thinking of your mother?” MeiMei teasing voice violently throwing him out of his thoughts.
“ No!” He snaps out of habit watching MeiMei flinch back. It was no secret what the court thought of his Mother nor the rumors that followed her even in death. He did not care to think about that at the moment he did not care to think at all instead he clears his throat before continuing in a softer tone “It’s just I didn’t expect Fullmetal to be an omega”
“ Me either, oh gods I’ve made a complete fool of myself haven't I?” MeiMei cries hiding her face in her sleeves.
No more then I
“ Oh Ling how can I very face the rest of London now” The younger Alpha questions her scent turning bitter with worry and anxiety stifling the thick air in the carriage further.
“Why are you freating, I thought you would have been happy to learn he’s an omega, court him or whatever have the wedding with your twelve layers villain cake and all the other things you gushed about” He comments fiddling with the carriage window until he can prop open slightly the cool night air filling the carriage. He is not entirely sure why MeiMei is so concerned about Fullmetal court him don’t court him what different did it make to him.
“ It's not that I am not happy, I really am, it’s just..” she hedges fiddling with the ends of her sleeves.
“ It’s just what spit it out” he demands and no moods for pigs antics.
“He’s short ok” MeiMei shouts out before turning to a tomato. He can not help the snort that crawls its way out of his throat.
“ MeiMei! I never took you for the shallow type” He laughs watching as the younger Alpha grows more and more embarrassed by the second eyes becoming almost glossy or maybe it was just the moonlight.
“Don’t say it like that, I know it’s petty but I don’t know stop looking at me like that” MeiMei sniffles genuinely sounding on the verge of tears. He tries his best to ignore the way his nose burns at the bitter scent radiating of his half sister. He tries even harder to ignore the sudden urge to soothe the sniffling pig before him.
“ It’s a big hard when the pig squeals but I shall do my best” his voice comes out less light then he would like sounding more strained almost desperate for what he was not sure.
“So what shall you do now?” He asks a moment after his voice returns to its normal manner. Watching as MeiMei wipes away the tears and snot staring at him for a long minute picking him apart bit by bit.
“ The same as is planned find a husband only now with the extra step of avoiding Mr. Mustang” she says softly, her scent mellowing out after her tantrum.
“ Good, that is good” he mutters sagely satisfied with her answer, turning his face towards the open window breathing in the night air that rushes by. They do not speak for the rest of the journey to the palace yet he can still feel MeiMei’s eyes on him the whole time. They remain silent even as they reach the palace and a disgruntled Brimsey guides them back to their temporary quarters.
“I shall bid you good night” MeiMei mutters giving him a slight nod turning to enter her own rooms.
“ We will see how good it is once her grace hears of what happened” He mutters back the adrenaline is the night wearing off, leaving a tire exhaustion and it’s awake.
“ Well then, I suggest you try to enjoy the rest of your night as this is technically all your fault” MeiMei huffs over her shoulder storming out of the rooms slamming the door behind her with a loud slam. He stand there for a few minutes feeling himself sway on his feet before collapsing into the closet armchair letting out a long tired sigh.
The gods must truly hate him. They set a platter of forbidden fruit before testing his resolve and patience. The temptation was so sweet it nearly lulls him to sleep yet under it is poison and the threat of losing everything over a golden omega.
Meimei was right, London was a beast he was not ready to face.