Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was during the spring that you felt the most content. Everything was reborn, blossoming from the frozen winter. The village came to life with music, new animals, and the sweet smell of fresh bread.

It had been this way since you were a child, no taller than your mother’s hip and only aware of how acutely you spurned the winter. With chapped fingers and lips, you watched bitterly as your friends, Peter and Else, played, squealing loudly as they threw snow at one another.

The three of you, friends since you could remember, filled to the brim with laughter, scraped knees, and all as plain looking as could be. This suited you fine, and there was little to disappoint you but short moments of impassioned arguments with your two best friends and a brief encounter with the very silly king and his very silly son.

As the only daughter (and indeed, the only child) of the villages master tailor, you found yourself often around the regal and ridiculous. So, it was of no surprise when the king himself requested your father’s services and you were required to help him carry his materials to the castle where the king greeted you with his only heir, a son, wearing the silliest hat you’d ever laid eyes upon, a red feather sticking from the top.

You were as different as two people could be and with your simple manners and upbringing, you could not begin to understand the pomp and circumstance of such a silly little boy with rounded cheeks and a chest puffed much too high.

He strutted and flounced about the castle as a peacock would its park and the sight was all together ridiculous for your 9-year-old eyes to behold. He’d called you peasant girl and remarked on your general lack of beauty and at 13 years old himself, you felt he had little to offer either, aside from a sizeable kingdom to trump the bed of straw and sheep’s skin you called your own.

For his 13th birthday, Prince Jungkook of Löhrenstein, would have a party, in which all the nobility and sovereigns of the land would be in attendance with their young princesses, and little duchesses, hoping to secure a treaty with his father, a contract between two kingdoms; a betrothal of a prince and a princess.

Of course, you would know nothing of this sort of formality or indeed the contracts of marriage. Your education was as broad as tending a home, carrying your father’s supplies, making flower crowns, and helping to herd the cows during the Viehscheid.

So, while the prince was living in a castle and throwing parties and sneering down his nose at near everybody, you were busy helping your father to sew his clothes. At least you could still play in the fields when the sun was high and warm and the flowers were just beginning to bloom.

And this was how you spent your years, watching as Else became beautiful and elegant, long brown hair thick and wavy, tied back in braids as she went to work in the village at her father’s bakery and you watched in quiet envy as all the boys took notice, bringing her fine milks and cheeses as tokens of their affection while you stayed plain. Even Peter had become mildly handsome as he grew into his gangly limbs, erasing the once mousy appearance for a broad shouldered, sun freckled young man.

You told yourself you didn’t mind so much that you were still plain while she was beautiful, but of course you did a little. To be poor but beautiful afforded you more than being poor and plain. Peter often told you that you were just as beautiful as Else, and while you were happy with the compliment, you knew it was because of his childhood love and devotion to you.

You believed that was why he chose to become apprentice to your father, to someday seek your fathers blessing for your hand. While you did not love Peter the way that he loved you, you could not deny the appeal of continuing with the comforts that you were already accustomed to. After all, you were the only daughter to the king’s tailor…that did afford you some small comforts. You supposed someday when he asked for your hand, as he inevitably would, that you would accept.

When you turned 18, however; there was a small gift from the gods, in the form of a late blooming. A glow to your cheeks and a blossoming of beauty. You were, of course, no Else, but you could certainly hold your own and found that you had more than just Peter as an admirer; much to his chagrin.

Perhaps that’s why you feared that any day now he would ask for your father’s permission to court you because then your path as his future wife would be decided. You were in a strange position as the daughter of the king’s master tailor. You were neither peasant nor nobility so while your ability to choose your spouse was more under your control, you were still held to the standard of your father and who he deemed fit to represent his family, and in turn, the kings.

The sun had just risen to its fullest height, waxing hot as it commandeered the sky, blue and shivering with the heat. It was sweltering and crowded in the square; noisy with life. The baker’s wife was out shouting, calling attention to the freshly baked rolls sitting just passed the door of the bakery. Else stood beside him, batting her eyelashes and looking pretty; using charms her father could not to entice more customers and you smiled.

The sheep were drinking from the water trough in the center, surrounded by red and yellow poppies in full bloom. The clock tower struck one and you glanced up, eyeing the time wearily. You stood under the archway of a building painted green as a melon, hoping to escape some of the day’s heat.

A woman chased a boy from her garden, chickens flying around in aggravation and you peered after the child as he sulked down the lane, feet dirty and bare. “You hungry, boy?” You called and he looked to you, face caked with dirt from playing and a nod as answer. “Here.” You tossed him the apple you held in your hand and he thanked you, running back into the bustling of the town.

The crowd quivered with conversation and your attention was suddenly captured by the gossip of two young ladies as they passed you. “Yes, the king’s carriage has already left the castle. Apparently, the prince is to be fitted for a ball.”

“I wonder if we shall see him.” The other remarked and your eyes swung to the road, spotting the carriage, scarlet curtains billowing from the windows as it made its descent into town. You gasped, grabbing the skirts of your dress and dashing mad towards your home.

Your father would whip you if you were late. You ran through the fields, cutting through tall shrubs and across dirt paths. A childhood spent playing in this winding village afforded you the intimate knowledge of all its byways.

You arrived at your home, gasping and covered in dirt and your mother came out, fussing loudly over your appearance, bustling you into the home and towards your room. Your father sighed loudly as you passed, eyes scanning your dress, soiled with the toil of your morning.

“This is no way to greet your king.” He remarks as your mother pulls you behind the wooden room divider, helping you to strip from your clothing and wiping you down quickly with a wet wash cloth.

“My dear, you are not fit to be seen!” Your mother scolded, washing roughly at your face and you grimaced, shivering in the chill of the room. “You knew they were coming today.”

“They are early.” You complained and your mother’s lips smacked in irritation.

“A king is never early. He always arrives exactly when he means to. You would do well to remember that, Y/N.”

Your mother helped you to dress in something new quickly, re-pinning the last piece of your hair just as the crunch of gravel from the royal carriage wheels could be heard rounding the corner and the two of you rushed from the room and to the front door to wait with your father.

You took a deep breath, head bowed into your chest as you heard the carriage come to a stop in front of you. It was abnormal for the king to come to your home, far too busy with his royal duties to condescend to see a peasant, but his son and only heir had recently returned from…well, to be sure, you did not know where he actually had been, but rumor said he was poorly behaved and had gone somewhere far away to teach him the ways of a king.

This would not surprise you, were it true; he’d been a ghastly child. You could only imagine him now, in adulthood. Upon his return, his father had announced his desire to reacquaint his son with their kingdom and your father being his master tailor would receive the special privilege of his presence, it seemed.

The king stepped from the carriage first, and you watched his feet move towards your family.

“Your majesty!” Your father bowed and pleasantries were exchanged as the prince himself disembarked from the carriage.

You kept your eyes trained fast on the ground; the bottom of your dress already smudged with dirt from where you stood.

“My son,” The king announced and your father bowed once more, both your mother and yourself curtsying deep.

“You remember my wife and my daughter?” Your father said and it was now that you felt it was safe to lift your eyes from the ground.

“My, yes,” Said the king turning his gaze towards you, “you have grown well, girl.”

“Thank you, your majesty.” You replied, soft; bowing your head and he smiled, pleased.

“You remember my son?” He asked, pointing his hand to the figure by his side and you allowed your eyes to slide over to him.

It is unfortunate, in this life, that some people are just born with everything the heart could desire. Good fortune, health, money and comfort and to have all that and still be handsome? Well, truly life was unfair.

He stood tall, face angular with deep set brown eyes and rounded lips. You were under no illusion that he was anything but blessed by the gods. They must have looked upon him very favorably, indeed.

“Yes, your majesty.”

The prince looked at you curiously, head curved to the side as your father beckoned them into your home and you watched the king and prince follow after him. You heated with shame as you entered after, watching the prince survey your home while your father and the king conversed.

He must think this was so beneath him; to stand in the home of a pauper. The floor, though it had been swept, was still covered in a layer of dirt and the furniture was old and matted, worn with use. You had more than others in your village, but compared to a king, this was true poverty. It must have seemed you had nothing at all.

“Jungkook, come look at these colors.” The king beckoned and the prince was quick to walk to his side, looking over the fabric your father had assembled as options for his ball.

“These are exquisite.” He remarked, voice low and serious. “I wonder, sir, my father says you will come to the castle tomorrow to prepare my clothing.”

“Yes, your highness, with my apprentice in training, Peter.”

The prince’s eyes flickered to you in surprise and you looked back down at the floor. “Not your daughter? I remember she used to join you when I was a boy.”

“Yes, my daughter would come to help me carry my things, but since I have acquired an apprentice, I have found that quite unnecessary.”

“I would very much like if you would bring her tomorrow, along with your apprentice, of course.” The prince smiled and you couldn’t help but look up in surprise.

“A woman?” The king laughed, loud and joyful and you bowed your head once more, flushed with shame. “What purpose would a woman have in a man’s business? She should stay here and help tend the home, Jungkook. Don’t be unreasonable.”

“I should very much like to have her return to the castle, for reminiscence sake, father. That is, if her mother can spare her.”

“Of course, your majesty.” She bowed.

“She can carry some of the fabric.” The prince smiled, eyes flickering to your bowed head, “like when she was a child.”

“You have a very strange sense of humor.” The king chortled and you closed your eyes, willing the humiliation from you. “Very well then, we shall see you on the morrow with your apprentice and your daughter. You know the time, I presume?”

“Yes, of course, your majesty.” Your father smiled, escorting them out the door and your mother and you stood in the kitchen, eyes trained on the floor.

So, it would seem he had not changed. Like a dog at his table, you had been summoned. So amusing, was it, to watch a woman carry fabric and needles for a man and stand in the background. Always to be seen, but never to be heard.

Your heart bled with the thought and you listened carefully as the carriage resumed its journey. Your father stepped through the threshold of your home and you could feel his eyes on the crown of your head.

“Now come, girl, there is no need to be so downtrodden.” Your father remarked lightly and your throat burned with emotion.

“Y/N.” Your mother said softly and you shook your head, turning to walk away.

“I wish to be alone.” You murmured, fleeing to your room.

The window was open, soft breeze fluttering through the soft white curtains, now dirtied from the dust of the road. You closed your bedroom door softly behind you, walking towards the window where you sat at your stool.

Laying your arm across the lip of your window, you rested your chin in the palm of your hand and sighed. To feel like a bartering chip in the world of men was difficult. To never be in charge of your own destiny. Destiny, for you, was to be nice to look at and the ability to bear children. You wanted more than that; wanted to be heard, wanted your thoughts and feelings to be considered.

A knock at your door called your attention and your mother stepped through the door, smiling softly. “It is an honor to be called back to the castle.” She remarked and you sighed once again, returning your gaze back out the window.

“Mother.” You frowned and she sat down on your bed. “You should understand…as a woman. We’re not objects to be played with.”

“My dear,” she tutted and you looked over at her. “Men are simple creatures, if they’ve nothing to look at, they don’t know what to do with themselves.”

You chuckled, sitting up straighter, hands dropping into your lap. “Then what are we to do with them, mother?”

“We guide them, darling. They like to feel useful, so we help them feel so. We know our worth, we don’t need to be reminded. Men, they need to feel powerful; what else do they have? They may be the head of the family, but we are the neck and they turn where we will it.”

“I have the feeling a prince would be harder to guide.” You smiled and she shrugged.

“Perhaps. It just makes it more fun; more of a challenge.”

You frowned, staring back out the window and into the forest just beyond your gate. The air rippled with heat and you watched as a rabbit hopped from your garden and into the shade. “I don’t want to go, mother.” You admitted.

Your mother’s fingers closed around your hand at the window and you turned to look at her. “My dear…I’m afraid you’ve no choice.”

The morning was hotter than usual and your dress stuck uncomfortable to your back. Peter was thrilled at the prospect of meeting the king and you realized belatedly that he’d never met him before. As the daughter of the king’s master tailor, you were in a unique position within society; neither pauper nor noble.

You’d had the unfortunate pleasure of meeting both the king and his son and you didn’t particularly care for either. “Imagine the palace, Y/N.” Peter sighed, eyes distant and smile pleasant as he threw an arm around your shoulder.

“I don’t need to imagine it.” You huffed, pushing his arm from your shoulder and readjusting the wrappings of fabric in your arms. “I’ve been there, remember?”

“Yes, I do. You never told me much about it, though. Always so secretive.”

You watched as he paused, tucking the edges of the tarp back around the rest of the fabric on the cart before resuming the journey. Your father walked steadily in front of the two of you.

“It was never a secret; I just didn’t particularly enjoy my time there.” You said carefully, eyes focused on the back of your father’s head. He’d beat you if you misspoke of the king.

“Yes, you did mention the prince was rather…interesting.”

“It seems nothing has changed.” You hummed softly, staring down at your feet, dusted yellow from the road.

“Then why are you coming today? If you dislike the prince, why come?” Peter questioned. The castle came into view, large and imposing against the backdrop of the mountains. White brick stood tall, the spires topped with a deep blue and for a moment you allowed yourself to admire the view.

Though the people within the castle were not to your taste, the palace itself was beautiful. Draped on every side by the mountain range and a large lake nestled in its cove, it was one of life’s true pleasures, gazing at its majesty.

“I think you will find, Peter, that I don’t have much of a choice. The prince requested his jester.” You replied, the words bitter on your tongue.

Your father called Peter forward and you spent the rest of the walk in silence, listening to the creak of the cart’s wheels as they cracked over rubble and dirt. Your mother had attempted to make you look pretty today, though you could not think why; presentable should be good enough for any man who wasn’t looking to choose a wife.

Your hair had been done and pinned beautifully, your most beautiful dress resting against your skin. It was certainly nothing to a noble, to be sure, but it was not unpleasant to look at and flattered the shape of your body.

It was hot, though, unbearably so, and you suffered dearly under the harsh rays of the late spring sun. Your mother insisted beauty had a price, but you weren’t quite sure why you were being asked to pay it.

The shade of the drawbridge was a welcome relief and you pulled a handkerchief from your bag and mopped at your face and neck. You didn’t need to offer the prince anymore reason to mock you.

You were escorted to the kings fitting rooms where you gently placed the fabric from your arms on top of what your father and Peter had carried from the cart. You patted at your neck once more as you watched Peter’s eyes scan the room excitedly. Absently you wondered if your father had taught him how to behave when the king was in the room.

Your father motioned you over and you slipped your handkerchief back in your bag and went to stand by his side. It wasn’t long before the king entered and you curtseyed deep, eyes trained on the floor.

He and your father spoke loudly as introductions were made and you could practically feel Peter vibrating from where he stood. He was excited, at least. You resisted the urge to pat at your cheeks, flushed with heat from the walk. Your throat felt like sand, dry as you swallowed and you wished more than anything for some water.

The men spoke noisily as they congregated around the fabric and it was decided that the king would be fitted first. You waited quietly as your father began his measurements, your fingers bunching tight in the fabric of your dress.

The room was overly warm, large windows allowing the sun to enter liberally and you felt yourself wilting in the heat. Voices muffling like you were under water, you watched as the gold, cerulean, and cobalt of the room became nothing more than puddles of grey before fading into black.

Your brow felt cool, wet with the brush of a damp cloth and your eyelashes fluttered open, taking in the surrounding room.

Deep mahogany filled your vision, blue and white canopy drapes traveling the length of the rail. Walls painted in beautiful scenery drew your gaze and you reached up to feel the cloth against your brow.

“You’re awake.”

You inhaled sharply, turning to find the source of the voice. You were surprised to find the prince sat beside you, a basin of water resting on a table next to him and a small smile as greeting.

“I’m sorry to have startled you.” He said softly and you lowered your hand, attempting to sit up. “Please remain as you are, Y/N. You need just a moment to recover.”

“What happened? Where am I?”

“You are in one of the spare bedrooms in the palace. It seems you over heated and became faint.”

You closed your eyes tight, shame filling your breast. It was one thing to faint in general, but in front of the king and his son. Mortification was a bitter friend.

“Where is the doctor?” You asked carefully, peaking one eye open and glancing around the room. The prince smiled, watching as your gaze flitted everywhere but him.

“I asked him to step outside for a moment. I wanted to make sure for myself that you were well.” He replied, watching your brows furrow in thought.

“Why is that, your highness?” You pondered, looking up at him and he removed the cloth from your head, soaking it back in the basin before wringing it anew and placing it back against your brow.

“We are old friends, are we not?”

He stared down at his lap, seemingly unsure himself of his statement and your mouth parted in surprise. “You would consider us friends, your highness?”

The prince smiled, wry, before chuckling with a shrug. “Perhaps friends is too liberal of a word. I know I wasn’t the most…pleasant to be around when I was a child. I was selfish and cruel and it’s why my father sent me away. I’m very sorry to have ever been cause for discomfort.”

He paused to gauge your reaction but at the moment you weren’t quite sure what to think. It had seemed so unlikely to ever receive an apology and now that you had it, you weren’t quite sure what to make of it.

“I was hoping we could begin again…become real friends.” He admitted.

“Please pardon my confusion, but I find myself very surprised. Why would you wish to be friends with a peasant, your highness?” You finally asked, looking over at him and his smile was gentle, gaze shifting to the open window, the afternoon’s breeze composing a dance among the curtains.

“You are not a peasant, YN” He said, watching as a small starling landed on the balcony, head twisting side to side as it chattered excitedly. “But even if you were, I would still wish to have your friendship. It is my father’s intention to make me king someday and after so many years as a selfish child, I am ashamed to admit that I know nothing of the people in my kingdom. The sorrows, the trials, the joys…I want to be a good king. I want people to know they can depend on me to help, even if I’m not perfect or don’t always have the answers. I want my people to trust me.”

You watched the starling yourself now, hopping across the wood of the balcony, a song puffing his chest wide. “And you think I can help you with that?” You asked softly, watching as the bird resumed flight and soared into the distance.

The prince looked back down at you, reaching his hand out to press against your cheek and you flinched. “My apologies, I only meant to see if your skin was still flushed. May I?”

You nodded, watching as his fingers extended back to your face, the back of his hand pressing gently across your cheek and neck. He hummed, retracting his hand and smiled. “Your temperature has reduced. How are you feeling?”

“Better.” You admitted, “Though I would love to have some water.”

“Yes, of course, I will have some fetched for you. Can I help you sit up?”

He held his hands out for you and you allowed him to pull you gently into an upright position. The world spun for a moment before settling and he moved to the door, calling for a water.

“As an answer to your earlier question,” he said, coming to sit across from you once again and you watched as he set the cloth and basin further away from the bed, “Not only do I wish to make amends, but I want to learn about my people and my kingdom and I believe that spending time with someone who knows the kingdom so well could only benefit that cause.”

“Spending time with me?” You questioned before pausing as a maid entered the room, handing the prince the water before leaving the room once more, door closed tightly behind her.

“Here,” he said, handing you the water which you took happily, clear and cool to the taste. “Yes, spending time with you. Getting to know all about you and my people.”

He paused to allow you a moment to think and you took the opportunity to finish your water, staring down into the cup once you’d allowed it to settle in your lap. It seemed unreasonable to refuse his offer if he really was trying to make a change.

The kingdom could only benefit from having their future king know them and care for their wellbeing. Perhaps the prince would make a very decent king after all, not the tyrant you’d assumed as a child.

“What say you?” He asked gently, holding his hand out for your glass and setting it on the table with the basin.

You looked up at him with a nod, smile tucked in the corner of your lips. “Very well. I can’t see how it would hurt. I will do as you request, your highness.”

“Wonderful.” He smiled. “And please, call me Jungkook.”

Chapter Text

“Try this cheese, Alaric brought it to me this morning.” Else said, holding the wrapping out to you and you leaned across the windows ledge, taking a small piece of the cheese and popping it into your mouth.

Early morning had peaked, the sun still finding its place over the mountain tops and the village was slowly coming to life. Else’s family bakery was already wafting the smell of bread through the streets when you’d come up the gravel.

“It’s very soft.” You hummed, watching as she wrapped it and stowed it back in the ice barrel by her feet.

“It’s from his farm.” She replied absentmindedly, pulling a long braid over her shoulder and surveying the ends of her hair. “He made it himself.”

“You seem impressed.” You smiled and she blushed, pushing away from the window with a huff and walking further into the bakery.

“Not impressed, anyone can make cheese, you know. It does taste nice, though.” She admitted, using a cloth to wipe her hands.

“Does Alaric wish to court you?”

Else busied herself about the bakery, wiping flour down onto the dirt floor and sticking a loaf of uncooked bread in the bread oven to bake. “If he does, he should hurry. He’s not the only one who wishes to court me, you know.”

You watched as she flitted around the room, pretending to be busy in order to avoid your gaze and you smiled. “Well, you are very beautiful.”

“This is true,” she nodded, brushing a strand of hair from her face as she kneaded dough onto the bench in front of her, “so if Alaric wishes to have me as his wife he should move quickly.”

“Do you want me to convey the message?” You teased and she looked up at you quickly, eyes narrowing.

“Don’t be so forward.” She chastised. “A woman never chases a man.”

You opened your mouth to reply when suddenly-

“I agree, a man should always pursue a woman he wishes to court. Good morning, Ms. Y/N.”

You jumped, eyes widening as the prince came to stand beside you. “Your hig-” you started but as the prince’s face grew stricken you paused before continuing. “Jungkook. What are you doing here?”

Else looked up the two of you, eyebrows rising in interest. You doubted the prince was meant to be out in the village like this, though, thankfully, no one would recognize him. He was dressed simply and you wondered how he would have ever gotten clothing that allowed him to blend in. Else wiped her hands on her apron, coming around the table and leaning into the window, surveying the two of you across the sill.
You could see the interest in her eyes, the way she twisted the ends of her hair through busy finger

s as she eyed the prince’s handsome face. You wanted to laugh; if only she knew how out of her depth she was. “Where are you from?” She inquired and you watched as the prince turned to survey her before turning back to you.

“I’m from a few villages over. I’ve come to visit my friend, Y/N. She promised to show me around her village.” He replied and you watched as Else’s gaze slid over to you, eyebrows perked.

“Oh? Will you go now?”

“If you have time, I would love to.” Jungkook replied, staring down at your face and you looked over at Else as she smiled, nodding.

Sighing, you pushed away from the lip of the window, dusting your hands off against your apron. “Very well, I will show you now. I assume I will see you later tonight?”

Else nodded, hands linking behind her back as she smiled out at the both of you. “Of course. Try not to have too much fun without me.”

You ventured further into the village, walking slowly to allow the prince to survey his surroundings. It must have been strange to know he would be needed by the kingdom and not know anything of its people and their needs.

He’d been away for such a long while, you imagined he knew nothing of the village at all. “Where did you find those clothes, your highness?” You asked softly, gaze shifting around the faces of the towns people. They were busy with their lives, calling out to each other across the cobble pathways, buying and selling goods; too preoccupied to notice a handsome stranger in their midst.

“Jungkook, please.” He murmured, glancing down at you before up at the buildings as you passed. “One of the palace staff allowed me to borrow something from his personal closet; we are the same size. Has this village always had so many colors? It’s very charming.”

You looked around at the buildings and their respective pastels. It was odd the things you forgot to appreciate when they had become such a regular part of your life. The village was not overly large, but it was beautiful and filled with color.

“From as far back as I can remember.” You hummed, fingers linking together in front of you. Dirt kicked up from beneath your shuffling steps and the prince moved his hands into the pockets of his pants.

“I have so many regrets.” He sighed as you curved right, taking him down another small street, less crowded than the last.

“What do you regret?” You asked.

“How much time do you have?” He huffed, one corner of his mouth quirking, lackluster in its attempt. “I regret many things, but neglecting my people is the biggest. I don’t know anything about them, about this village.”

“Were you not being taught about your kingdom while you were away?” You queried, stepping closer to him as a child ran wild past you and up the incline before disappearing around the corner.

“I was being taught how to behave like a king and how to mind my manners, but no education is ever perfect and I’m afraid you can’t teach the personalities of people; only learn them through exposure and time.”

You hummed, nodding, “This is true.”

He clapped his hands together, smiling brightly and you looked up at him, blinking as the sun peaked over the tops of nearby roofs and into your eyes. “I’m grateful you’re willing to be my teacher.” He smiled, “I hope you will tell me about the village and introduce me to people…though my true identity shouldn’t be known, of course.”

You nodded, guiding him down another street where someone was selling candied walnuts and the prince’s eyes widened, a grin splitting his face wide. “My father used to send someone out to get these for me when I was a child!”

You watched as he rolled on the balls of his feet, eyes wide and pinned on the man as he stopped to sell a bag. “Did you bring coins? Surely you can afford them.”

The prince smiled, reaching into the pocket of his breeches and you could hear the telltale sign of coins bouncing together as his fingers sunk into the dips. “Would you like some?” He asked, moving slowly toward the man.

“Oh-” you stopped, feeling flustered, “that’s very kind, your…Jungkook. It’s not necessary, though.”

He watched you a moment before nodding and walking to the man and you turned your gaze to look through the windows of the butcher’s shop while you waited. The butcher waved, and you smiled with a nod. He raised his cleaver, cutting through the meat and bone in front of him.

“Here you are!”

You gaze switched suddenly to the prince as he moved to stand in front of you, holding out a bag for you to take, shaking it gently as you stared. “Jungkook,” you murmured, opening your hands to receive the gift and looking up at him as he dug around in his own bag and snuck a few walnuts into his mouth, eyes squeezing shut with his smile. “I told you it wasn’t necessary.”

“I know,” he nodded, grabbing a couple more nuts, “but you looked like you really wanted one. Plus, they smelled so good, I could hardly help but get two!”

You stared down at the bag, chest warming and you fiddled with the little yellow ribbon keeping the bag closed. “Thank you so much.” You replied and the prince chuckled, nudging your arm softly with his own.

“It is only a bag of walnuts.”

The two of you resumed your slow walk and you opened the pouch, pulling a nut out and chewing on it carefully. “So, tell me about your childhood, Jungkook. You told me you went to a place to learn how to be a king, but where was that?”

The prince hummed, sucking sugar from his thumb and you watched as plush lips smacked in thought. “It’s called Hallen des Efeus and it’s in Heidleberg. Many noble children go there for their education, though I mainly went for punishment.” He grinned down at you and you couldn’t help the slow smile back.

“This was warranted.” You nodded and the prince laughed loudly, squeaky and surprising, but it made your heart squeeze with affection.

“Yes, it was.” He agreed, finishing off the bag of walnuts and shoving what was left in his pocket.

“At first I was very angry to have been sent away. I spent too many weeks in a state of rebellion and I wrote my father every day to tell him how cruel I felt he was. Finally, I made a friend. Her name is Margit, but she told me to call her Snow. I thought that was absurd, but she insisted and told me she’d call me toad if I didn’t. I found that even more absurd, but refreshing.” He grinned and the two of you stopped by the well to watch as women chatted, lowering buckets to fetch water.

“We had met before, of course, she’d come to my ball only the month before and we’d become acquainted but this was the first time really speaking with her. She’s the princess of Vildungan and was sent by her new step mother who insisted she needed more finishing. Snow thinks it’s because the queen doesn’t really like her.
Perhaps this is so, but she was only 12 at the time so she could have misunderstood. She was called home suddenly at the death of her father not long before I returned home. She’s become a very dear friend to me; she taught me what it means to be a good ruler and person. Her thoughts were invaluable to me, I don’t know who I would be if not for her gentle guidance.”

You hummed, watching as a small girl with a long golden braid down the center of her back peered over the side of the well, her mother swatting at her gently as she pulled her bucket from the darkness. “She sounds lovely. Perhaps you are in love with her.”

The prince smiled, bemused, turning to gaze down at you. “Why would you think so?”

You shrugged, ushering him to move along with you once more. Through the final bend of thatched houses as you began moving through fields, gated with stone and wood. A breeze brought with it the smell of snow crocus, sweet and calming.
“The way you speak of her, it sounds like love. Or, at least what I understand of love. I do not pretend to be an expert.”

The morning was now nearing early afternoon and you wondered idly if you’d be expected home for lunch. Perhaps the prince would soon be found missing and you would hate to find out the consequences of being found with him, if that were the case.

“As a very dear friend, yes, I love her.” Jungkook finally replied, hands linked together behind his back as you paused at a gate, the wood splintered and rough beneath your fingertips. “I myself cannot claim to know what love feels like, though I hope to feel it someday. Do you, Ms. Y/N?”

He looked down at you, eyes wide and inquisitive and you fixed your gaze over the fields of forget me nots, watching the cows grazing quietly. “Do I what, your highness? Wish to fall in love?”

“Jungkook, please, and yes. Have you been in love before? Do you wish to find love?”

The sun was warm on your face as you closed your eyes, allowing the sweep of the mid spring breeze to bewitch you. “I have never been in love before,” you allow, “though I would like to know the feeling one day. I know of no one who does not wish this.”

“No one courts you now?” The prince asked and you looked up at him, watching as his gaze remained steady on yours.

“No, Jungkook, I am not presently attached.”

He watched you a moment before humming with a nod and switching his gaze back over the field. “Though you know of someone who would?”

Your fingers sunk into the wooden fence, slivers flaking beneath your fingernails. “Yes, I think so.”

“I believe you speak of Peter.” The prince replied and you turned sharply to look at him. Your questions were silent, but he understood them anyway. “I saw the way he looked at you, when you came to the castle. His concern for you when you were faint was touching.”

Burying your hands in the pocket of your apron, you leaned your back against the fence, feeling the snag of stray wood in the fabric of your dress. “Yes, you are correct. We’ve been friends since we were children and now, he is my father’s apprentice. He seems like a logical choice.”

“But you do not love him?” Jungkook inquired. You frowned; lips pursed as you watched a farmer tend to his field.

“I do love him,” you replied, “but I am not in love with him; an important distinction, I think. I have no right to be particular, though. My life is as you see it.”

“Perhaps so.” He murmured; gaze distracted. “I’m afraid I must return to the castle now; my father will be looking for me soon. Would you be so kind as to show me the way?”

You nodded, pushing gently away from the fence and he followed you back into the winding village.

“I have some time again tomorrow,” the prince remarked, “would you be willing to receive my company again?”

You scraped a sliver of wood from beneath your fingernail, feigning distraction. “When would you wish me to make time?”

You looked up at him and he smiled, eyes scanning your face. You felt warm under his gaze; an intimacy you were unfamiliar with when it came to him. “Would the afternoon suit you? I have time after my morning lessons.”

You nodded, eyes moving to stare back at the cobblestone as you meandered upwards through the streets. “Yes, I will make time in the afternoon. Do you know the old oak tree, the one with the strange gnarl in the center over by the mill?”

The prince nodded, eyebrow quirking, “yes, I believe I do.”

“Then I shall meet you there tomorrow in the afternoon.” You nodded and he smiled.

“Wonderful.”

Else took her time sweeping that evening while you waited by the fountain, legs tucked under your chin and dress draped to the ground, dust caked along the edges. Normally she wasn’t this thorough, but you could see her father eyeing her with a scowl so you assumed she’d caused him trouble.

The lightning bugs were out before she’d finished, walking towards you with a frown as greeting. “Let’s go.” She muttered, and you followed after her, watching as her father finished closing the windows and doors to the bakery.

“What’s the matter?” You coaxed, “is your father upset with you?”

“He says I am too distracted.” She huffed, stomping across cobblestone, making her way towards the forest’s edge. The brook came into sight and she marched towards it, finding her favorite rock and perching on top of it. “But I was only doing what he asked of me.”

“What was that?”

“Acquiring new customers!” She pulled one of her braids over her shoulder, tugging the band from the end and tangling busy fingers through dark tresses as she worked out the knots.

You smiled, watching as she moved, fingers nimble but sharp as she hastily undid her braid. “How were you acquiring them?”

She huffed, scowling over at you as she dropped her half-braided hair. “You know very well how.” She chided, returning to her task and pulling more aggressively at the strands that still clung together.

“And your father disapproves?”

“Only when it’s Alaric, I suppose.” She muttered and you grinned.

“Ah, so Alaric came again? Did he make his intentions known?” You smiled at her glare and she pulled her other braid forward, working to release the last of the strands.

“Don’t be so coarse.” She scolded but there was no bite to her words. Her anger was out of embarrassment and nothing more. “He only came to see if I enjoyed the cheese and I tried to ask if he wanted to buy some bread. I suppose we talked for too long.”

She removed her shoes and stockings, plunging toes into icy water and shivering at the chill. “It’s too cold for a swim.” She remarked, subject changed and you sighed, sitting on the rock beside hers and dipping your fingers into the water.

It was cold from the mountain’s spring, biting at your fingertips and you quickly removed your hand to your lap. “It’s always too cold for a swim.” You remarked, staring down at the water, inky black with the night sky.

“Who was that man today? The one from another village?” Else asked suddenly, hands curving into the sides of the rock as she peered over at you.

You sighed, staring across the empty fields. “He is a recent friend.” You lied, “he is just visiting for a short time and I said I would show him around.”

“Is he in the same kingdom?”

You hummed, nodding. “Yes, he is.”

“He’s very handsome.” Else said, staring up at the moon. The sky was alive with stars tonight, shining down on the two of you. “Do you not think so?”

“No,” you sighed, “I know he is handsome, but I fear he knows it too.”

“Well, I suppose he does. With a face like his, he must know.”

Silence enveloped the two of you and you allowed your mind to drift with thoughts of the prince. He was so different from when he was a boy; all the pomp and circumstance of his position had somehow vanished and apparently you had someone named Snow to thank for the change.

Change couldn’t come without effort, though, and that change of heart was what impressed you most. Perhaps the prince did know he was handsome, but he certainly did not make it known.

“Where is Peter?” Else asked suddenly, swinging her feet lazily through the water. “I’ve not seen him in days.”

“He’s helping my father with the royal garments for the ball.” You hummed, pulling your legs back under your chin and linking arms around them. “I imagine he’ll be quite busy until they’re done.”

“Did you see the king and prince again? Was the prince the same spoiled child you remember?”

You smiled, twisting the fabric of your dress between your fingers for inspection. It was too dark to really see anything of substance. “I did see them both again, yes. It is too early to say, but I see some improvement.”

“And is he awkward and unattractive as the last time?” She grinned, long dark hair falling in waves around her face, the tips skimming the belt at her waist.

“He’s improved in many ways,” you sighed, “one of which is his looks.”

“How unfair.” Else tutted, “to be blessed with it all.”

“That’s what I thought.” You giggled. “I should go, though. I’ve been away from home most of the day and my mother will already be displeased with me.”

“I’ll walk with you.” Else said, pulling her feet from the brook and shaking them off before slipping her shoes back on.

Your mother was unhappy with you insisting on a few hours of freedom in the afternoon, but you’d finished your chores early so she allowed it begrudgingly. You’d made the long walk to the mill, finding the tree with the old, strange gnarl on its side and sitting beneath it.

You’d brought a small lunch with you for while you waited and you leaned back against the trunk of the tree, surveying the village down below you. The mill was quiet on this side, no need for people here while there was so much to be done on the inside. It was the perfect location to meet with a prince who wished for privacy.

A meadow pipit jumped from branch to branch above your head and you craned your neck to watch. Small and plain in appearance, it didn’t allow that to stop the beauty of its song; loud and unashamed. Sometimes you wished you could live as a bird. It seemed like there would be true freedom there in the sky, with wings spread wide and the rush of the wind as your companion.

As it was, you were not a bird, but time was your common enemy; ticking along with no thought for those it affected. It was cool beneath the shade of the oak, but pleasantly so and you laid back against the grass, staring up into the robin’s egg blue sky.

You imagined life wouldn’t always be this carefree. Someday, perhaps soon, Peter would ask to court you and then your duty as a wife would begin. You would clean and cook, tend to chickens, raise children when they came and live the rest of your life in the comforts you were already well accustomed to. You supposed it was time to accept this fate.

The thought made you sigh.

“Your thoughts seem heavy, this afternoon.”

Your eyes jumped to the voice, the princes face coming into view as he stood over you. “Your highness-” you started, but at his frown you once again corrected yourself. “My apologies, Jungkook, you startled me.”

You began to rise to your elbows but he waved you back down. “Please, remain as you are. I shall join you.”

“A prince in the dirt?” You smiled as he settled beside you, one hand behind his head as he took in the views of never-ending sky.

“Here, with you, I wish to be nothing more than Jungkook, your friend.” His tone was carefree, but you could hear how deeply he was trying to communicate with you; to break down those barriers.

“You’re right. I am sorry; I find it’s quite difficult to break habits. My father would die from shock if he heard me calling you by your given name.”

The prince smiled, a little chuckle leaving his lips as he turned to look at you. “Then we shall keep it a secret, shall we?”

His eyes said more than you could understand, not yet familiar with his ways of communication so you simply nodded. Of course, it would be improper for the two of you to openly be friends. A prince and a peasant? Never.

“Tell me about your lessons today, Jungkook.” You said, staring back up at the sky. You could hear him shift beside you and you waited.

“It’s mostly stuff of no consequence.” He sighed, “language and numbers. I am taught politics, though, which is important; at least in maintaining peace between kingdoms. In a few hours I will be required to return and practice with swords. That is a part of my education I enjoy.”

“Sword fighting? Why do you practice swords?”

“In case there is war. I will be required to lead my people and I need to have a competent knowledge of war.”

The thought had you recoiling in shame. “Ah yes, I forgot. Men and women…we each have our uncomfortable roles to play in this life, don’t we?”

The prince smiled, nodding, “yes, I’m afraid none of us will leave this life without some discomfort. I hope not too much, though.” He turned to survey you, dark eyes rounded and deep. “Tell me about the kingdom, Y/N. I know you have not been to every village, but what of the one here? Tell me of the people.”

You smiled, wistful, staring back up at the sky as you pondered your words. “The people in this village are good and kind. Their main desire is to make an honest living for their families. Some find that easier than others. If you have a trade, you have a livelihood. It is difficult to build from nothing, you see, so often the men in the village will inherit their father’s work or they will take over the work of the father of their wife if he has no son.”

“What does Peter’s father do?” Jungkook asked suddenly and you glanced over at him.

“He is a farmer. Peter has an elder brother who will run the farm so he needed to find something of his own. I suppose I was also a logical choice for him.”

“It seems Peter is very lucky; his life has fallen in his lap in a way not many others could boast of. A good living to inherit and marriage to a beautiful woman that he already loves. I could wish the same for myself.”

“Well, you have a reasonable inheritance.” You smiled, face warm at his sudden praise and the prince chuckled.

“Yes, but I will have sole responsibility of a kingdom I know almost nothing about, the fears and desires of people I don’t know resting solely on my shoulders. I am betrothed to someone I am not in love with and with no say in the matter, and I am required to always keep my thoughts, feelings, and personal desires to myself. If they are not pertinent to the kingdom, they have no worth.”

“It sounds like you do not enjoy the role you’ve been born into.”

The prince was silent, lips pursed and your fingers went to twist in the curves of your dress. Perhaps you’d overstepped.

“No, I have much to be grateful for. A warm bed, a safe home, a father who loves me, and an abundance of food and clothing. I have never wanted for anything. I am very blessed. I did not mean to sound ungrateful.”

“But you still wish you could have a little more say in your own life?” He didn’t have to respond for you to know. “I understand you, Jungkook. It seems we are not as different as I had thought.”

“You must have thought I was an awful child.” Jungkook remarked and you chuckled.

“I will admit I did not think well of you.” He grasped his chest and wheezed and you laughed louder, swatting at his arm. “Oh hush. You know this already.”

He nodded with a grin. “I was aware that you thought I was foul and when I grew up and reflected, I realized you were right to think so.”

You could hear the miller’s children playing in the courtyard over the stone fence and you listened a moment before sitting up. The prince watched as you rummaged in your bag, pulling your lunch, wrapped in cloth, into your lap.

“Have you eaten, Jungkook?”

He shook his head, sitting up slowly beside you. “Not since breakfast.”

“Would you like some cheese and bread? I’ve also brought some fruit. Peter’s father grows apples on his farm and he gave me a couple this morning. I know it is not palace food, but I am hungry and willing to share.”

Jungkook smiled, dusting off his hands and settling them in his lap. “I would love to share. Thank you, Y/N.”

You took the bread from its wrapping, tearing it in half and handing a piece to the prince. “This was made by my friend Else’s father. This cheese was made by someone in the village named Alaric. He is learning how to make cheese, cream, and butter these days. My friend Else thinks well of him but she won’t say so.”

Jungkook thanked you, taking the offering from you as you pulled out an apple and a small knife to cut it into pieces. “Tell me about your life since I’ve been away?” The prince said suddenly and you paused, knife halfway through the apple.

“There’s not much to say about it, honestly. Certainly nothing more exciting than your own.”

Jungkook scoffed, taking a bite of bread and cheese together. “Nonsense. Your life is just as interesting and valid as my own. If I’m to be a good king, I should care about all the details.”

You studied him a moment, eyebrows knit together before shrugging and cutting off a piece of apple to hand to him. “Very well. You know I have my mother and father, but I also have my grandparents nearby that I see often. My grandfather was the tailor before my father and now he raises goats and chickens. I’ve grown up with both Else and Peter; we used to play in the brook every summer or run through the fields where Peter’s father farms. One time Else pushed me in the manure and I was so angry I thought about shoving her head in. She would have cried, though; she’s very particular about her hair, says it’s her greatest charm.”

Jungkook laughed, covering his mouth. “And what say you?”

“I can promise you no man is looking at her hair. She has far better…assets on display.”

The prince laughed loudly, eyes crinkling in his mirth and you smiled, face warm. “I’m afraid I did not take notice of those particular assets.”

“I’m surprised; Else is very beautiful. I would not fault you if you had.”

“She is beautiful,” Jungkook admitted, “but I’m afraid I would need more than a pretty face to capture my interest.”

He looked down at you steadily and you cleared your throat, cutting out another slice of apple and taking a bite. “What is it you like? I’m curious to know.”

“I like a woman who doesn’t take no for an answer; someone who won’t allow themselves to be bullied. Someone who will be my better half and guide me when I have been misguided. Someone who makes me laugh at myself or smile, even when life is difficult. Physical beauty is important only to a certain degree, but it means nothing to the inner beauty.”

He watched for your reaction, like a curious fox with its prey and you took another piece of cheese with your bite of apple, allowing the salty and sweet to melt into your tongue. “It sounds to me that you’ve already met such a woman.” You surmised.

“Oh?” Jungkook questioned, watching you nod.

“Your friend, Snow. She seems to match your ideal.”

He smiled, shaking his head and staring back out over the village. The two of you were perched on the hilltop the village was located on, just outside the stone walls and to the side of the miller’s home. It provided you with shade and privacy, both necessary on this outing.

“Snow is a wonderful woman, I will admit, and I often find myself surprised that she’s not the desire of my heart, but I think you’ll find that again we come back to physical beauty.”

“Is she not beautiful?” You asked.

Jungkook shook his head firmly, eyes glazed over with thought. “No, in fact, she is very beautiful. I prefer a gentler beauty, though, and find myself drawn to someone else. Snow is wonderful, but she is soft spoken and gentle, always willing to give people the benefit of the doubt, even when it’s foolish to do so. This is not to say I dislike soft spoken and gentle, because I like that about her very much, but I fear her being taken advantage of by someone with less admirable desires. She would allow it purely out of the goodness of her heart.”

“Hopefully she will find a wise husband who will help to guide her.” You hummed and Jungkook stiffened from beside you, finishing off the last of his bread and cheese before standing and dusting his clothing off.

“I'm sorry, but I must return to the palace. They will notice my absence soon and I don’t want to cause worry.”

You nodded, standing yourself and Jungkook reached out, holding your elbow as he helped you to rise. You stuffed your lunch parcel back into your bag, dusting off your dress and gazing up at the prince.

“Thank you again for meeting with me. Perhaps we can meet again tomorrow?”

You nodded, slinging your bag over your shoulder. “I’m sure I can make time.”

And make time you did and for the first fortnight and sometimes while talking or showing him around the village, introducing him to villagers who were none the wiser, you wondered, “why me?” Why had the prince chosen you as his guide and when would he grow tired of all of this? Or was he really serious in his desire for your friendship.

And if so…why?

Chapter Text

“Y/N, will you take some of these berries for the dwarfs?” Your mother called from the kitchen and you quickly finished with your hair, walking from your bedroom. Your father and Peter were already working in the corner and you walked towards your mother who held a large basket out for you to take.
“Is there anything else you wish for me to bring?”

“Go get some eggs from the coop,” your mother hummed, shuffling around the kitchen, “and take this milk too. I worry about those men, all alone in the forest. They work in the mines all day and have no one to care for them when they return home.”

“Doc cares for them, and Bashful is a surprisingly good cook. I’ve enjoyed every soup he’s ever made.”

“Yes, well, they don’t have any animals and they can’t grow any crops that far in the forest. I don’t understand why they insist on staying there year after year.”

You watched as she finished bustling around the room, grabbing all the supplies and settling them carefully in the basket beside the bundle of berries. “I perfectly understand it, mother. Not only do they enjoy the solitude, but no one stares or misjudges them there. They have the freedom to be themselves.”

“That is a life worth envying,” your mother admitted, coming to stand in front of you, “but it is not our life. You know that, do you not?”

You sighed, nodding. “I do.”

The walk to the dwarf’s house was typically long. They lived deep in the forest, where only small pockets of light broke through to their den. You had just made it to the outskirts of the forest when you heard someone calling your name.

You turned to find the prince, waving and moving towards you, smile bright on his face. “Good morning!” He said once he’d come to stand before you. “I’m so glad to have caught you. My father is ill this morning so I have some free time.”

“Is your father well?” You asked, turning to him with surprise, “does he need anything?”

“Oh, he is well.” Jungkook smiled handsomely. “Only a cold, but we meet with diplomats this evening and he wishes to be well rested for that, so he is sleeping longer.”

You nod, adjusting the basket on your arm and the prince turns to survey your figure. “Where are you going this morning?”

“I am dropping this basket of food off at a friend’s home. Perhaps you would like to come?” You inquired. “They are part of your kingdom, but not many know of their existence. They like to keep to themselves.”

Jungkook smiled, clapping his hands together. “I would love to come!” You began to walk into the forest, Jungkook following beside you.

“Why have they chosen to live in such a strange place, though? It is so dark in here.” Jungkook surveyed his surroundings, watching as the light ebbed from in front of you, the forest darkening the further you moved forward. There were enough patches of light along the way that you never felt as though you were in danger of injury or getting lost, but you supposed it was quite strange for someone new.

“Well, you will better understand once you’ve met them, but I would like to prepare you so you’re not so surprised when you do. They are dwarfs, you see, and they enjoy their privacy. When they are out in the open, people can be unkind so they prefer to keep to themselves.”

“Dwarfs!” Jungkook cried in delight and you looked over at him, startled. “My father told me about them. He said they disappeared a long time ago and he wasn’t even sure they were still alive.”

“They are alive.” You confirmed. “They grew tired of the comments and the stares. The forest provides the type of solitude they were seeking. Besides, it is closer to the mines where they work, so it was a reasonable decision for them.”

“How did you come to know of them?” Jungkook inquired, lifting a branch from out of your way and you thanked him, moving forward.

“I’ve always known them.” You remarked, stepping over a fallen tree branch. “My mother knew them when she was a young girl, they were close friends with her family. When they moved into the forest, my mother and her family would still visit them. I grew up knowing them well and visiting them often. They don’t always have access to fresh food, the way we do in the village, so often my mother will send me with a basket to make sure they are well.”

“Will they accept my presence or is it better that I not join you?” Jungkook asked carefully.

You smiled, stepping over a small stream and the prince followed after you, eyes watching the dimly lit pathway carefully. “I am sure they will appreciate the sentiment, but as their future king, you should most certainly meet them. You can take their thoughts and opinions into account in the future when you have decisions to make for the kingdom.”

Jungkook nodded and you reached out for his hand suddenly. He stared down at your fingers, wrapped around his own and you ignored the racing in your heart. “It gets even darker here,” you explained, “it would be easier to guide you like this.”

He nodded, following quietly behind you, steps labored and careful as you parted shrubbery. Conversation ceased for the time being, only the sounds of the forest and the prince’s breathing could be heard. The breeze whistled through the trees, creating soft music in the silence. The density of the forest should have scared you, perhaps, but after years of meandering the trail, it had become familiar to you.

One of the only moments you truly felt at peace was on this walk to the dwarf’s home. It was a sort of melancholy that was welcome in moments like these; allowing your thoughts to drift pleasantly, focusing on nothing in particular.

Finally, you stepped from the darkness into the glade, pockets of sunshine warming the ground and the lone cottage in its center. A small white cottage with a roof of straw, timber framing, and a dark blue door greeted you. Smoke was wafting from the chimney against the side and the morning firewood was lying beside the chopping block; ax leaning against the nearby tree.

“I should tell you,” you said suddenly, turning to look at the prince who was surveying the cottage with equal parts wonder and awe. He turned to look at you, dark eyes steady when they greeted yours. “The dwarves have names, but they share them with no one. They have never said why, only that names have meaning. So, they have chosen nicknames that we may address them with. I will introduce you when we are inside, but I wanted to warn you because their names are…unconventional.”

“Unconventional?” Jungkook echoed and you smiled.

“You will see. Would you like me to keep your true identity hidden?”

The prince shook his head, gazing back over the cottage. “That seems unnecessary in this case.”

He followed after you as you led the way to the cottage, rapping your knuckles lightly against the wooden door before pushing gently inside. Jungkook waited on the threshold while you peeked around the corner, smiling as you were greeted by Doc at the stove and Sleepy lounging across the tattered sofa.

“Good morning, Doc.” You greeted, standing straight as you entered the door.

“Y/N, please, come in! I was just preparing porridge. Would you like some?”

He held a bowl up for your inspection and you walked to his side, staring down into the offering. “I would love to have a bowl with you. Before I do, though, I brought a friend that I would really like you to meet.”

Doc’s eyebrows rose into the shag of his grey hair and you could see Sleepy rise to his elbows from the corner of your eye. “A friend?” Doc inquired. “You have brought another person with you?”

You nodded, moving back to the door, “I have and I believe you will understand why once you meet him.”

Jungkook hesitated as you waved him forward before taking a tentative step into the room, eyes searching out the occupants. He bowed carefully, watching as Doc placed the bowl down on the countertop and you gazed between the two of them with a smile.

“This is his highness, Prince Jungkook. He saw me by coincidence this morning as I was making my way here and I invited him to come. He will be the next ruler of our kingdom and I wanted him to know you were still here; to have your voices heard.”

“You have my utmost discretion.” The prince said gently, “I understand your reasons for choosing to live here in the forest and I respect and will honor your privacy. I am looking to meet and become acquainted with all my subjects so that I can be a good king. The kingdom shouldn’t be peaceful for only the monarchy but I cannot bring true peace without knowing the thoughts of my people.”

You watched the two dwarfs think, years of oppression guiding their hesitation. “What’s to think of?” Happy said suddenly, loud and jovial, from the staircase. He came to walk towards the prince, hands extended in greeting.

“The fact that our freedom here is now threatened.” Grumpy grumbled from behind him, still stood on the landing of the stairs. “What were you thinking, girl?”

“I was thinking that you deserve to have a representative.” You replied, back straight as you looked at him. He was often in a foul mood, but he had a gentle heart under the steely exterior and he’d always had a soft spot for you.

“Come now,” Happy grinned, tutting at the skepticism of the others. “We have said for years now that we wish we could have our thoughts heard and our issues dealt with. Now that we can, you suddenly hesitate?”

“At what cost?” Grumpy scowled and Happy laughed, coming to link his arm through yours.

“You think too much, my friend. Come you two, sit down and eat with us. Grumpy, please go call the others for breakfast.”

Happy led the two of you to the table and you sat, eyeing Grumpy gingerly as he huffed, stomping up the stairs. “Don’t mind him, your highness.” Happy grinned, moving towards the stove where he ladled porridge into a bowl and returned to the table to serve the prince. “He has a loud bark, but it is all a facade.”

Doc took the bowl from the countertop, delivering it to you at the table and you smiled, thanking him. “I know this is a lot very suddenly.” You said calmly as the other dwarfs came from downstairs, eyes drawn to the prince beside you. “I would not have made this decision if I felt it would truly endanger you, however. You know I think very highly of you and I think highly of the prince as well. He is kind and he will try his best to be your advocate and friend.”

The dwarfs stood, beards long and scraggly, Dopey’s tucked haphazardly into the belt at his waist and you smiled as his lips quirked lopsidedly upwards. “I like your hat.” He whispered, pointing at Jungkook’s head.

Jungkook smiled, the apples of his cheeks dusted rose. “Thank you. I like yours too.” You leaned into the prince’s side whispering quick introductions as the dwarfs filled vacant spaces by the stairs.

The fire crackled and popped softly from the living room and Bashful moved to open the kitchen windows, allowing the breeze from the forest to waft into the room. Birds chirped from outside the window, a branch from the apple tree hanging low enough to see.

The mood of the room seemed to ease with the calm of the spring morning. Wooden chairs scraped across oak flooring as the dwarfs made to sit down. Sleepy filled a jug with water before returning to the table.

“When did you start spending time with the prince?” Doc asked after everyone had sat down at the table together. He surveyed you with a careful interest as you dipped your spoon into your porridge, stirring to cool it down.

“We’ve been meeting for around a fortnight now. He asked for my help in getting to know the village since he’s been away for so long. Any kingdom would benefit from an active and generous king, don’t you think?”

“May I ask how you have made a living?” The prince asked carefully, “Y/N has informed me that you are miners.”

“That is correct.” Doc replied, some of the porridge dripping from his spoon and into his beard. He paid it no mind as he continued to eat. “We mine in the mountains and then barter and sell in the mountain villages. It provides us with a living enough to afford what we need.”

“Why do you not barter and sell in this village?” Jungkook asked curiously. Grumpy frowned, grumbling under his breath and Happy chuckled, patting his arm.

“You see, we left this village many years ago because of prejudice. Before the two of you were even born, the people in the village were not kind and they didn’t accept differences. We felt it was easier to just leave.”

“I’ve tried to tell them that I believe the people are different now,” you said, gaze switching to the prince, “but they have such a lovely spot and home here that there is really no reason to leave.”

“You only wish to save yourself a trip.” Grumpy mumbled around his spoon and you scoffed, sending him a playful glare.

“I would never. I enjoy the exercise and scenery.”

“What was your thought when you came here today?” Doc asked, eyes trained on the prince.

Jungkook was poised, wiping his mouth with a cloth from the table before setting it beside his bowl. “It was pure coincidence that I found Y/N walking here today. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to spare any time in my day due to lessons and training, but when I found some time I rushed towards her home and saw her ready to enter the forest. I asked to accompany her and was pleased to hear you were still in the kingdom. My father had told me about you years ago; said that you hadn’t been seen since he was a boy.”

The prince paused; brows furrowed in thought. “My father is a good man and he tries to do what he thinks is best for his kingdom, but he does not know the people and was taught by his own father to mind the politics. I believe that is important to an extent, but I also believe that the thoughts of my people can build the kingdom you wish and deserve to live in. I can’t know your thoughts unless I meet you face to face and hear them, so I am trying my best to do what I say and say what I mean.”

The dwarfs seemed impressed with his answer, though Grumpy still kept a frown tightly fastened to his lips. It had been a long time since they’d met with people in this village who were willing to hear their thoughts.

“I don’t expect you to forgo your privacy,” Jungkook continued, “I am very willing to always come to where you are. I can understand, to an extent, being treated differently because of situations out of one’s control. I don’t wish to strain things for you further but I do hope you will permit me to learn from you and about you.”

“You don’t need an answer now.” You confirmed, “I need to return home shortly anyway, my mother wants my help in the garden this morning. I think you will be happy you gave the prince a chance, though. I know I’m happy I did.”

Jungkook smiled over at you, dark eyes gently tracing the contours of your face. “I’m happy you did too.” He agreed.

After you’d helped the prince find his way back out of the forest and said your goodbyes, you wandered slowly back to your home. Your head was fuzzy with warmth to match the humidity of the late morning. You still couldn’t quite believe the same pompous little boy you’d known all those years ago had grown into such a kind and considerate man.

A carriage in front of your home caught your attention and you moved forward quickly, arriving shortly after it had pulled away. You stepped into the kitchen where your mother stood at the table admiring a terracotta decanter painted in blue and gold and perched on top of a large oak barrel.

“What is that?” You inquired and your mother looked up at you suddenly, lips curving up.

“It’s grape wine!”

You nearly dropped the empty basket, moving forward quickly to set it on the table. “Grape wine?” You asked, running your fingers across the grains of oak. “How did we acquire it?”

Wine was for the wealthy, far too expensive for your family to have ever reasonably gotten. Ale was common at your dinner tables but never wine. You’d never even tasted it.

“It is a gift from the prince!” Your mother squealed excitedly. “One of the servants just brought it now.”

“A gift from the prince?” You asked, surprise and affection ballooning in your chest. “What for?”

“I don’t know,” your mother shook her head, grabbing two small cups and returning to the table. “But we should surely show our gratitude by drinking some. Don’t you agree?”

Her smile was infectious and you laughed, taking the proffered cup from her hand. “We should be ungrateful if we didn’t.” You agreed.

The crickets chirped softly, their song carrying with the breeze through the brush. The grass underneath your back prickled into the skin of your arms and hands. You rubbed blades of grass between your fingers, eyes heavy as you watched the lightning bugs dance across your vision. The stars seemed brighter this evening, a soft glow that lit up the field around you. The village had quieted by this hour, nearly all its occupants retiring to their beds for the night.

Your mind was unusually lively tonight. It danced from thought to thought, most of which were centered around the prince. His ball was this evening, all the gentry from near and far in attendance. Distantly, you wondered if Snow was there too. An odd emotion bloomed in your chest, something you neither understood nor could place.

Like the blood was flowing too quickly to your heart and it made you feel uneasy. You could imagine the ballroom, filled with the glow of candles and the aroma of sweet pies and savory roast. You’d never experienced it for yourself, but you’d heard from your father how exquisite the smell could be. Like warm cream and butter and a sprinkle of sugar. Your mother would sometimes make sweet candies for you when you were a child and you liked to imagine a princess in a castle would eat a never-ending supply of such treats.

You could almost hear the strings of the lute, if you listened hard enough perhaps you would. It was better not to covet what the prince had, but a dance would surely be nice. “We wondered where you were.”

The evening was dark, but the moon illuminated the figures of your friends as they moved towards you. Else and Peter both took a seat on either side of you, laying back and the wind rustled your dress gently.

“You have found me.” You smiled. Peter slid his hand behind his head, light blonde waves tumbling out of place. “I feel as though I’ve not seen you outside in so long.”

Peter turned to smile at you, blue eyes black in the night. “Did you miss me?” He teased and you scoffed, pushing him away as he laughed. “The ball is tonight so I finally have the opportunity to be free. At least for tonight.”

“Can you imagine?” Else sighed, breathless at the thought, “a ball. Dancing and fine dresses, so much food you couldn’t even possibly eat it all. I think I would look well in a ball gown.”

“You would look well in a gown.” You agreed. “I don’t think there is anything you wouldn’t look well in.”

She nodded thoughtfully and Peter gazed over at you. “I think you would look equally lovely in a gown, Y/N. Perhaps someday I can make you something?”

You chuckled, rolling your eyes at him. “With what fabric?” You teased and he smiled, shrugging.

“I shall find some.”

“What of me?” Else complained, sitting up to look over at him. “Will you not make me a gown too?”

“Have Alaric do it.” Peter grinned and Else huffed.

“He makes cheese, Peter. He knows nothing of finer things.” She flopped back down on the grass, crossing her arms over her chest.

“Perhaps someday we shall have our own ball. We can make beautiful dresses from old dresses we have and flower crowns. It could be wonderful.” You surmised.

“It sounds less grand with old fabric.” Else pouted and you agreed, though silently.

“Well, perhaps when you marry a duke, we can talk of finer things.” You grinned, “You’re the only one among us who is fair enough to secure such a marriage. I’m afraid the duty falls on your shoulders.”

“The price of beauty.” Else sighed drearily. “Do you think the prince’s betrothed is at the ball tonight?”

You remained silent, the strange sensation in your chest returning. “I would assume so,” Peter supplied, “at such a formal occasion, it seems only proper that she would be there.”

“Perhaps they are dancing now.” Else sighed, “a very pretty thought.”

“Do you work with my father again tomorrow, Peter?” You inquired and he turned his gaze towards you.

He was handsome enough and had a fine figure with broad shoulders. You hoped that if you had sons, they would inherit his shoulders. Your own fathers were slender and compact.

He made you laugh and he was kind, truly you were lucky. So many women in the village could not say the same. Perhaps you could fall in love with him in time.

“Not tomorrow. We have time to rest before our next task. I shall be working with my father and brother at the farm.”

“Else, will you be with your father at the bakery again tomorrow?” You asked, turning to look at your friend.

She nodded; eyes still trained on the stars. “Of course, my help is invaluable to him. Will you be working in the home?”

“Yes, my mother is angry with me for being out so much.”

“Where have you been recently?” Peter asked suddenly and you realized your mistake.

“She’s been with that friend from another village.” Else replied nonchalantly, sweeping a wisp of dark hair from her cheek. “He’s very handsome.”

“Handsome?” Peter asked, sitting up. “Who is he?”

You sighed, sitting up yourself. “No one to worry yourself about, he is just a friend. He asked me to show him the village and I did so. He was only passing through for a short time.”

“So, he has gone?” Peter asked, eyes trained on the side of your face as you kept your vision forward.

“Yes,” you lied, standing suddenly and dusting off your dress. “Neither of you need worry about him. I must return home; I assume I will see you on the morrow?”

You didn’t wait for the reply, heading quickly back up the dirt lane towards your home, now shrouded in the darkness of the evening.

The days passed like that of a bittern walking in the marsh, sluggish and quiet. You’d not seen the prince since the afternoon in the forest. Your mother had filled another basket this morning with fresh food and eggs and you moved slowly through the brush and into the forest as you pondered his absence.

It shouldn’t have felt so strange to be missing his presence; the fact that you’d grown accustomed to it at all is what should have been the more peculiar. Yet, you found it odd without him by your side; like he’d carved a permanent spot for himself in your life.

You thought that the morning after the ball you would see him once more, but it had been nearly a fortnight since then and you’d not heard even a rumor of him. Perhaps it was best; it was dangerous to become accustomed to the company of a prince, especially if the funny feeling in your chest remained.

The dwarfs would not be home at this hour, busy deep in the mountain’s mines, so the smoke rising from the chimney was surprising. You paused a moment, surveying the small cabin from the tree line before moving forward towards the house and pushing against the door, feeling the give as it swayed inward.

In the center of the kitchen, looking very out of place, stood a young woman in a beautiful gold and blue gown, tall partlet shielding her neck and raven hair held fast in a golden snood. She was striking in appearance, with fair skin, dark eyes, lips red as a rose, and a soft, pointed nose.

She hummed sweetly as she cut strawberries and you cleared your throat, garnering her attention all at once. “Oh!” She gasped softly, looking up at you.

She was even prettier now that you could see her entire face. Delicate and feminine, you wondered who she was and why she was here. “Good morning.” You greeted, watching as a smile lit up her features, eyes sparkling brightly. “I’m afraid we’ve not yet met. Do you know the dwarfs?”

“Oh my, it’s such a pleasure to see another woman.” She smiled, hands clapping together, “Yes, the dwarfs and I have become recent friends. They need a woman’s touch, don’t you agree? Poor dears. Do you know them well?”

You nodded, moving slowly towards where she stood in the kitchen. “Yes, all my life. I come to deliver fresh produce as often as I can. Did you arrive recently?” You placed the basket with goods on the kitchen table and the young woman busied herself with kneading the dough on the counter top.

“Fairly recently, yes.” She smiled, “They’ve allowed me to stay with them for the time being. It’s very kind of them. I try to do my part to show my gratitude.”

You nodded, fingers fiddling with the white cloth covering your basket. “Your dress is very beautiful,” you remarked, watching her pause to look down at her gown. “Do you always wear something so ornate to bake?”

She smiled, shaking her head, “not normally. I have many fine clothes, but this dress is unusually grand. I’m afraid I didn’t have much time to change before coming here.”

“That dress is all you have with you?” You asked in surprise and she stopped working to look up at you. Her features, so pretty and delicate, pinched in thought.

“I’m afraid so. I’m very out of place, aren’t I?” She laughed, bright and melodic.

“Who are you?” You finally inquired, abrupt but curious.

She wiped her hands on a towel, tittering nervously and you watched as she smoothed her fingers down the fabric of her gown. It was expensive, you could tell. She had to be someone in the gentry.

“Goodness, I have forgotten my manners. My name is Margit Katherine Apellonia Von Geet, but please, call me Snow.”

Ah, of course…a princess.

Chapter Text

“Snow?” You repeated and she smiled, nodding delicately before returning to her pie.

“My father would call me that when I was a child because my skin has always been so fair. It gives me comfort to be called Snow; reminds me of him and his kindness.”

“Reminds you?” You asked softly. Of course, you remembered what Jungkook had said, but you couldn’t help but hope that somehow this Snow and his were different people. She was far more beautiful than he’d given her credit for if they were one in the same.

“He passed away recently,” she whispered, expression dropping before perking up quickly. “But he would never want me to mourn for him. He always said a funeral was an opportunity to celebrate life so I choose to celebrate his.”

“I’m sorry.” You mumbled, digging your fingernail into the wood of the table.

“Thank you.” She smiled.

You shouldn’t have asked; sometimes curiosity was more hurtful than it was worth. Especially since you’d already known the answer. “How long do you plan to stay?” You asked carefully as she placed the dough into a baking dish and began to scoop cut strawberries into its center.

“Well, I’m afraid I don’t know. I left my home rather suddenly, you see, and I’m unsure when it will be safe enough for me to return.”

“Your home is not safe?” You asked, moving to stand across from her at the kitchen counter. She smiled at you and once again you were struck by her beauty. What sort of woman could entice the prince if she could not?

“Not at the moment, but I hope someday it will be again. I was away for quite a while at school and when I returned again it was…different. Tell me, how do you know the dwarfs?”

You paused in unpacking your basket before turning back to your task. “I’ve always known them. My mother was friends with them when she was younger and everything just happened very organically after that.”

“You are lucky, then.” Snow smiled, putting the top on her pie and cutting delicate shapes.

“I’m afraid I must return home.” You sighed as you dropped the white cloth into the now empty basket. “My mother will be expecting me but…I assume I will see you here again?”

“Yes of course!” Snow hummed, placing the pie in the brick oven and placing the stone covering over the opening. “Please do come again to visit! Oh, but you never told me your name!”

In the surprise of the moment, you’d completely forgotten. “Yes, you’re quite right. I’m Y/N, pleased to meet you.”

“The pleasure is mine, of course!” Snow said, escorting you to the door as you swung the basket over your arm.

With so much to occupy your mind, the walk back out of the forest passed quickly. You couldn’t imagine what would make a castle unsafe for its princess. Jungkook had mentioned Snow had a step mother; was she unable to protect her properly?

You were so deep in thought you didn’t notice your company until he was gently touching your arm. You jumped, turning to see Jungkook stood behind you, eyes wide with surprise but smiling nonetheless.

“I’m so sorry to have surprised you!” He apologized. “I was just coming to see you. Did you just come from seeing the dwarfs?”

You nodded before speaking. “Where have you been? It’s been a fortnight since I saw you last.”

“I apologize for my absence.” The prince smiled, cheeks warming at your rebuke. “I should have warned you. My father and I went to visit our neighbors to the south. We are hoping to trade with them; some of our venison for some of their seafood.”

“Did it go well?” You asked, beginning to walk with him, watching the road carefully in an effort to remain disguised from the view of the nearby village.

“Yes, they were very amiable. We began negotiations and signed a treaty. Just wait until you try some of what we returned with. I will have some sent to your family tonight!”

You smiled, warm from his consideration. “You are too kind to me.” You admitted.

The prince shook his head vehemently. “There is no such notion.”

“You know,” You started, running your fingers through the tall grass as you walked towards the fields. “I just met your friend Snow.”

Jungkook stopped suddenly, turning to look at you with his eyebrows drawn tight. “How ever did you meet her?”

“She is staying in the cottage with the dwarfs currently.” You remarked, watching his brow deepen with his confusion.

“Perhaps you are mistaken. Snow is a princess, why would she be living with the dwarfs? It would be improper for her to do so.”

You shrugged, eyeing him carefully. “How many Snow’s do you imagine there are in this world? All of her details are consistent with that of your friend.”

“Did she say why she was there?” The prince asked, features softening.

“Only that it was dangerous for her to be home right now.”

“Dangerous?” At your nod, his expression darkened and he looked over your head, back towards the forest. “Would you be so kind as to show me the way back to the dwarf’s home? I want to make sure she is well.”

The shift in the mood was sharp and you nodded, chin tucked into your chest. “Of course.” You murmured, leading the prince back in the direction you’d come from.

Jungkook seemed more assured of himself this time, walking with measured steps behind you as the forest darkened. You could hear his breath, steady and calm, and you wondered idly if you should have mentioned the princess at all. The prince’s attentions to her were already unsettling, though you couldn’t place why.

When you returned to the cove of trees, the prince set off ahead of you, hurried in his footsteps to go check on his friend and you rushed behind him, only just barely catching him as he pushed open the door.

Snow was still in the kitchen, this time with a pot over a bubbling fire. She was singing something unfamiliar but lovely as she cut potatoes and you watched apprehensively as Jungkook moved towards her. “Snow.” He called and her head bounced at the suddenness of his voice. She smiled bright, placing the knife carefully on the countertop and rushing towards him.

“Jungkook!” She cried as greeting, “how did you know I was here?” The prince gestured behind himself, mouth opening to speak before Snow continued, eyes alight with recognition. “You are friends with Y/N? Oh, how wonderful, we have recently become friends too.”

Snow used the word friends rather liberally, but you didn’t fault her for it; she was a young woman alone in a cottage with 7 elderly dwarfs after all. You would like a friend yourself if you had been her.

“Yes, she told me you met.” Jungkook nodded. “She said you were in danger at home. Is all well in Vildüngan?”

Snow’s mouth pinched in at the sides and she spun back to the pot over the fire, stirring the stew silently for a moment. “Vildüngan is fine, I thank you for your concern.” She sighed, returning to the countertop and grabbing a new potato to cut. “It is only my step mother.”

“What of her?’ Jungkook asked, stepping closer to where Snow stood. Snow picked the cutting board up from the counter and moved back over to the fire, dropping all the cut potatoes into the pot.

“She is going through hard times right now, Jungkook.” Snow murmured.

Jungkook seemed unhappy with that answer, hands clenching at his sides. “What hard times?” He questioned. Snow moved back to the counter, grabbing carrots from a basket and beginning to cut. “What hard times, Margit?”

She sighed, wiping her hands on a cloth and turning to face her friend. “I believe she fears I will take the kingdom from her now that my father has died.”

“You are the heir.” Jungkook agreed and she nodded, hands placed delicately in front of her.

“Yes, but you know I will have to be married before then.”

You watched the exchange between the two friends with curiosity. A conversation you were sure you weren’t meant to see, yet they said nothing to inspire you to leave the room so you remained still by the door way. Uncomfortable but curious.

“What happened, Snow?” Jungkook asked gently. “You were supposed to be at the ball, but you never came. Then you appear here in the forest and claim that your home is a danger to you. What would you wish me to think?”

She brushed a stray hair from her cheek, rosy from the heat of the fire. “Would you be so good as to bring me the brisket, Y/N?” Snow called suddenly, looking over at you. “It’s there on the table, wrapped in cloth.”

“Of course.” You murmured, grabbing the meat and moving towards her, standing beside the prince as she took the brisket from you with a thank you.

“You know my old friend Diterich, do you not? The one I’ve told you of.” Snow opened the cloth, cutting the meat into small chunks. The prince sighed, rubbing at his eyes.

“Yes, of course, your childhood friend. What does he have to do with anything?”

“I’m coming to it.” Snow replied, moving to drop everything else into the pot before rinsing her hands in the basin. “On the afternoon of the ball, I was already dressed and prepared, as you see. I took a walk into the grove beside the palace, I wanted to pick blueberries, and Diterich found me there. He told me the queen had sent him to acquire my heart and that I should run far away. That he would kill a pig in my place and present the heart to her. Of course, that meant I needed to vanish.”

“The queen wants you dead?” The prince asked, deep voice suddenly sharp.

“Try to understand her position.” Snow reasoned; hands clasped together as she pleaded with her friend.

Jungkook’s frown deepened. “I absolutely will not. I do not understand how you can be so forgiving. She wants your heart, Margit.”

“I know that, Toad.” She bit back and you had to stifle your grin. Now was not the time for laughter. “She thinks I will take her kingdom from her and throw her out.”

“It is your kingdom!” Jungkook angrily insisted.

Snow sighed, moving back to the pot to stir the stew. The room was filled with the rich velvet of the broth. Onion and garlic permeated your senses, mouth salivating as your stomach grumbled low.

“It is not my kingdom until I am married, you know that, Jungkook.”

“Then perhaps you should marry.” You supplied and both the prince and princess turned to look at you, as though suddenly remembering you’d been privy to the entirety of their conversation. “If you marry quickly, you could take your kingdom back; the queen would have no power, correct?”

Snow looked at the prince uneasily, mouth parting slightly. She glanced back at you, small smile finding her lips. “There is more to be done than just marrying quickly, I’m afraid. My betrothed would need to be ready as well.”

“Well, who is your betrothed? When will he be ready?”

You looked over at Jungkook whose shoulders rounded and his chin rose as he looked up at the ceiling before looking back down at you. “I am her betrothed.” He said gently.

The information was surprising, though you were unsure why it was so. Of course, it only made sense that the prince would be betrothed, and to Snow no less. Still, the announcement left you feeling a disappointment you couldn’t understand. Your head spun and your heart felt heavy in your chest. She would make a very fitting bride for such a good and handsome man.

“Oh,” you murmured. “That’s- I’m sorry, I don’t mean to sound so surprised, you just never said before so I was caught off guard. I suppose you cannot marry until your father steps down?”

Jungkook sighed, moving to look out the window, hands tucked behind his back. “It’s complicated, Y/N.” He said, “But for now, Snow will need to stay here until it is deemed safe for her to return.”

“I apologize. This is clearly a conversation I shouldn’t be a part of, my life is very different from yours. I do not know or understand the politics of a kingdom. I should go.” You moved towards the door.

“Nonsense!” Snow tittered, moving around the countertop towards you. “Please stay, supper is almost ready and I would very much enjoy your company. Would you be willing to help me make bread? As I’m sure you know, the dwarfs eat a lot and I only have one loaf ready.”

Her dark eyes sparkled as she waited for your answer and you noted that Jungkook had turned from the window to watch you. “Very well.” You smiled, “I will stay.”

“Let’s talk of happier things!” Snow insisted, moving quickly back to the fire, “there’s much to be happy about and much to do. Will you stay for supper, Jungkook?”

The prince looked torn, switching his gaze from you to the princess. “I am unsure if my father could spare me for so long.” He admitted and Snow smiled, reaching to grab your arm, pulling you to join her on the other side of the counter.

“Very well, I perfectly understand. It will be fun to talk as just women, anyway.” Jungkook watched the grin she sent your way, switching his gaze to you as you moved towards her to receive instructions.

“Perhaps-” he said suddenly and both Snow and you turned to look at him. “Perhaps I can stay for a little longer. I would like to learn how to make bread, if you would teach me.”

The prince looked at you, eyes wide with question. “Are you a good student?” You mused and you could hear Snow’s giggle from beside you.

“Of course!” Jungkook huffed, cheeks pinking. You smiled, shrugging.

“Very well, then. Come with me to the cellar so we can get our ingredients.” The prince nodded, following you back outside and around the house to the cellar.

It was dark and cold inside, despite the heat of the early summer. The walls of mud kept the room near pitch black and musky and the prince followed after you on unsteady feet. “What’s down here?” He whispered and you couldn’t help but smile at the apprehension in his voice.

“You didn’t need to follow if you were afraid, your majesty.” You quipped. You could hear the frown etching its way across his mouth.

“I’m not afraid!” He insisted, “Only, I cannot see and I fear that I will fall into something or ah!-” He broke off suddenly, bumping into your back and you lurched forward from the force.

He wrapped his arms around your waist to stop your fall before steadying you against his chest. “My apologies.” He whispered, removing his hands quickly, but the damage was done. Your heart raced wild in your chest as you straightened out your dress, fussing over your hair as though everything had come out of place. “It’s so dark, I did not realize you had stopped.” He continued and you took a quick step away from him.

You needed the clarity the space would bring. “It’s perfectly alright.” You said over your shoulder, stepping towards some of the baskets and barrels in the middle of the cellar. You had been down here enough times that you were familiar with its layout, but in your haste, you had forgotten that the prince would not be. "This is where the dwarves keep their storages of food. Potatoes, meat, onions, garlic, carrots, the eggs we bring them from our coop. Anything that needs storage longer than a few days.”

You could hear the prince move his way slightly closer to you as you bent down, moving aside the blanket from over the top of the eggs. You reached behind you to grab a basket from the wall before beginning to fill it with the ingredients you would need.

“Why did you not bring a candle to see where you were going?” The prince inquired as he bent down beside you. The sliver of light outside the root cellar had helped your eyes to adjust just enough to note how close he was as he watched you work. You turned to look at him as his gaze focused in on your face. Somehow, he’d gotten dirt across his cheek and you chuckled, reaching up to wipe it away with your thumb.

Jungkook seemed startled as he watched you move your hand away, eyes widening once you’d realized what you’d done. Never had you been so forward, so intimate with a man and immediately your insides erupted with fire.

“I’m sorry,” you whispered, holding up your thumb for inspection, “there was dirt.”

“I see.” He whispered, eyes never moving from your own.

You felt paralyzed in his gaze, a sudden warmth in your chest and a realization dawning in your mind. You liked the prince. Not only had he become a friend, but somehow your feelings had morphed into more than you cared to comprehend.

Suddenly, you wanted to know what it would feel like to run your fingers across his jaw, if his hair was as soft as it looked; to know intimately what his mouth felt like. But he was betrothed. To Snow.

You tore your eyes away, staring down at the half-filled basket before resuming your task; fingers shaky in their determination. “Ah, the light would hurt the plants that need the dark to remain fresh. Would you mind grabbing me some milk? It’s over there against the wall.”

It took a moment, but then the prince sighed, his movements sluggish as he made his way towards the opposite wall, wary in his steps. You kept your eyes fastened to the basket as you grabbed some butter before standing and making your way towards the prince. You thanked him softly as he placed the jug of milk in your basket before you led him back out the door.

The sun felt sharp against your vision and you blinked, closing the door to the cellar tight as Jungkook exited. You waved for him to lead the way and followed him back to the house.

Snow was back to singing her song, waving pleasantly to the both of you as you made your way back inside and to the kitchen table to work. Jungkook worked diligently, following your guidance carefully and asking thoughtful questions when they came to him.

He left as soon as you’d put the bread in the oven, citing his fathers need for his return. Snow smiled softly as he left, the prince insisting he remembered the way back and she waited until he was beyond the tree line before she spoke.

“I believe my friend wishes to court you.” She giggled and you turned sharp to look at her.

“Beg pardon?” You squeaked and she smiled sweet, stirring the stew.

“Only that I’ve never seen him look at anyone the way he looks at you.” She replied and you felt mortified at the thought.

“He is your betrothed.” You said softly, running your fingernails across the fabric of your apron. Snow nodded, turning away from the fire and moving towards you.

“Yes, it is very inconvenient, is it not?” She replied with a sigh.

You couldn’t help your surprise and Snow smiled at the look on your face. “We are betrothed, Y/N, not in love. He is my best friend, so of course I love him as such…but neither of us wishes to marry the other. Monarchy.” She shrugged sadly.

It was, of course, common knowledge that betrothal was the common practice among royalty. It secured more land, allies, and resources. Even so, you’d never been in a position in life to know someone who would be made to do such a thing. While your own path was all but spoken for, you at least had some choice. Jungkook and Snow, it seemed, did not.

“I’m sorry.” You whispered and Snow reached towards you, squeezing your hand delicately.

“I thank you for your kindness. We must be optimistic, though, mustn’t we? After all, the story isn’t finished yet. Perhaps there are still twists and turns to be had. I certainly never imagined this turn.” She smiled, gesturing to the cottage around her and you chuckled.

“No, I didn’t expect to become friends with royalty, so I suppose we have reason to have hope for an adventurous future.”

“I like that very much!” She agreed.

After the dwarfs had returned and supper had been eaten, you returned to your own home with well wishes and a warm belly. Crickets chirped happily as you made your way through the fields on the outskirts of the forest, the wonky roof of your home greeting you from just over the rolling hill.

You could hear the shouts of your mother from the other side of the door and you rushed inside. The table was stacked tall with waxed cloth, your mother standing beside two that had already been open as she talked animatedly with your father.

“What is this?” You inquired softly and your mother whirled to smile at you.

“Gifts from the prince!” She gasped and you made your way closer to the table, inspecting the open packages. “Venison and seafood. There is enough for months’ worth of food.”

“I cannot imagine what brought on such generosity.” Your father remarked, opening a new cloth package filled with cheeses.

Your mother smiled over at you, a knowing look in her eyes and you averted your gaze quickly. “Can you not?”

“Y/N,” called your father, and you looked to him. “Help me move this into the root cellar.”

You nodded, allowing your mother to stack cloth wrapped meat into your arms before making your way outside and into the cellar, storing them in a dark, cold barrel for safe keeping. Once everything had been stored for the evening, you returned to your room, removing your dress and climbing into the warmth of your bed, staring out the window.

You couldn’t help but think of Snow’s words this evening and about the prince’s generosity to your family. Perhaps there was something to be said for the opinion of your new friend. Your flesh goose bumped at the thought, static with the beating of your heart.

It did not matter how either of you felt, however. As it stood, the prince was betrothed to someone else and nothing could change that; least of all the feelings of a peasant girl.

Chapter Text

** Jungkook’s P.O.V **

“Your highness.”

The sun had risen only an hour before. The prince was expected at breakfast in 30 minutes but the fresh air from outside the castle walls was too alluring a prospect.
Jungkook turned from his place on the balcony to survey the servant behind him. “His majesty the king wishes to have a conference with you.”

“Is he here now?” Jungkook asked, adjusting the sleeve of his tunic.

“Yes, your highness.”

“Very well.” Said Jungkook, nodding and moving towards the entrance of his balcony as the servant opened the door to his bedroom, allowing the king in before he exited himself.

Jungkook watched as his father moved about his room, running his fingers across old tapestries as he walked. “I remember when you were a boy, before your mother died, when we first gave you this room. You immediately broke the fine washing basin your mother and I had inquired for you from Duchy of Savoy on one of our trips.”

“I remember.” Jungkook smiled, fingers sliding across the stone railing at his side. “Mother was extremely cross with me, but when I began to cry, she forgave me.”

“Always a gentle woman.” The king replied with a soft smile. He moved towards where Jungkook still stood at the balcony. “Had she still been alive, she would have known what to do with you, how to raise you far better than I knew how. She was very creative, always had ideas.”

“I think I’ve turned out OK.” The prince replied softly and the king nodded, sighing. His fingers tapped absently across the sheep’s skin draped over one of Jungkook’s chairs.

“I believe so, though not due to my own merits. That school taught you everything I failed to.” The king bemoaned. “I just didn’t know what to do with you. I failed you as a child but I would like to think I’ve grown better since then.”

“I believe we both have.” Jungkook said.

The king nodded, fastening his hands behind his back. “You have been decidedly absent since you returned.” He paused at Jungkook’s look of surprise, “You thought I wouldn’t notice? Where have you been?”

Of course his father would notice his absence; he was meant to be training alongside him. There was only so much a person could disappear before being missed. Shame colored the prince’s cheeks as he gripped the balustrade railing tighter.

“I’ve been taking walks. To clear my head.” He said carefully. The king seemed unconvinced so he pressed on. “It’s a lot of pressure, there is so much to remember. I’ve just been trying to take it all in.”

“In peasant clothing?”

Jungkook paused, clearing his throat. Someone saw him. Why was he surprised? “I felt it would be better to blend in. I’ve been wanting to get to know the village and the people. I want to be an effective leader, father, and I believe that requires me to know the people’s problems.”

The king paused a moment, hands still tucked behind his back as he crossed the room to look out the window. Jungkook leaned against the balcony railing. “Do you think me an ineffective leader?” He inquired.

Jungkook’s eyes widened and he shook his head, standing straight. “No, of course not! That was not what I meant to insinuate. Only that I have new ideas and thought that knowing the people better would help me in that course.”

“And you felt it best to dress as a pauper and wander the streets of the village in order to do so?” The king asked, turning to survey his son.

Jungkook floundered for words. “I was unaware that, that was considered an evil.”

"Only when you lie.” The king frowned, eyes narrowing. “You continue to do so now. I had to find out from servants that you were leaving the castle dressed like one of them when you were meant to be studying and now, I come to find out you've been seen with a girl that is not your betrothed, and a commoner no less. Who is she?"

The prince flushed, turning away from the king to look over the kingdom. "No one you need to concern yourself with, father."

The king spluttered angrily, “what has gotten into you? Clearly, I have failed you again. I thought you were ready to come home. Perhaps I’ve given you too much freedom.”

Jungkook sighed, “Father, please. I’m just asking you to not worry about that girl. She’s a friend.”

"I don’t care who she is; you will do your duty, Jungkook. To your country and to your king."

"I don't understand what my duty has to do with whom I choose to marry or spend my time with, father. Why can I not choose this for myself, so long as I fulfill my promises to my kingdom?"

“You said she was just a friend.” The king frowned.

“I’m speaking in hypotheticals.” Jungkook replied flippantly, turning to look back out over the balcony.

"You already know your answer; it is the way of things. Stop testing my patience." The king sighed, rubbing his forehead before beckoning Jungkook to sit down. The prince moved slowly to take a seat on the end of his bed and his father folded his hands behind his back once more. "You are my only son, my only heir. I am concerned for the future of this kingdom. After your mother passed, I've had to shoulder the burden of not only the kingdom, but raising you to be the type of man that our people deserve. I'm not going to be disappointed, am I?"

Jungkook frowned. He knew his father’s tricks and they weren't fair, but he understood them. He knew he wanted Jungkook to be happy but his duty to the kingdom had to be paramount and a princess for a wife was what made the most sense to him.

"No, you won't." Jungkook replied softly.

"Good. I expect you to learn to be the king this kingdom needs. Know your place in this world, my son. I’ll see you at breakfast." He left in a hurry, cloak billowing behind him.

**Y/N’s p.o.v**

Midsummer had arrived and had left you dirty and hot by the time you’d finished your chores. Stepping inside your home, you moved to the water basin by your bedroom, grabbing the cloth inside and scrubbing at your face. You had just enough time to make your way to the river before the sun began to set and you intended to make good use of that light.

You rushed from the house and into the forest. The rivers basin started high in the mountains, but not far from the house was a water fall that met a lake and funneled into the river that fed your village. Sometimes, on days like today, you would wash there.

It was quiet and most importantly, it was private. The sound of the waterfall greeted you as you stepped into the clearing and you moved towards a moss-covered rock, removing your boots and quickly stripping down.

The sun was setting fast and though the dwarf’s cottage was nearby, you didn’t fancy trying to find your way in the dark. You scrubbed yourself quickly, shivering from the chill of the water. The sun had warmed it on its descent into the forest, but it was still Alpen water and made your skin prickle uncomfortably.

After quickly redressing, you made your way to the cottage to find Snow inside cutting potatoes for a stew. “Good evening,” you greeted, stepping into the cottage, warmed by the fire in the kitchen hearth. “The dwarfs are not home yet?”

“Hello!” Snow beamed, beckoning you closer. “They’ve not arrived yet, which is good. We’ve got time to get dinner prepared. I cannot even imagine how they ate before we arrived to help.”

You smiled, moving to grab the ingredients Snow had set aside for bread. “Certainly not as well as now, though Bashful does make some very fine meals.”

A knock at the door roused your attention and you moved towards it, pushing open to find the face of the prince. He seemed tired and distracted but he greeted you both with a smile and a soft hello.

“Good evening, Jungkook.” You smiled, closing the door behind him as he entered. “I was not sure you would make it today. I was just starting with the bread now; would you like to help?”

He nodded, moving to the table where you’d spread the ingredients and you began to prepare in silence. Snow distracted herself with cutting carrots, humming softly a tune that felt familiar and you watched as Jungkook focused on kneading the dough you’d given to him.

“You seem out of spirits, this evening.” You commented softly.

Jungkook’s head bounced up as though surprised by the sound of your voice. You raised an eyebrow at him and he nodded, flushing and returning to his task. “I apologize. I just have some things on my mind.”

“Anything I can help with?” You asked carefully.

He looked back up at you, features softening into a smile. “I thank you, but no. Unfortunately, it is something that must plague my mind alone.” You nodded, allowing silence to overtake you once more. Usually, the prince was lively with conversation, coaxing you from your own shell. Today it seemed that the tables were turned.

“Are you well?” He inquired softly and you looked up at him, nodding.

“Yes, thank you. I spent most of the day helping my mother in the garden. There is still time before we can harvest anything, but it is fulfilling work.”

“What do you grow in your garden?”

“Usually we grow things like potatoes, beans, and onions. My mother makes a lot of pottage, although these days because of your generous gifts, we’ve been able to enjoy stews. Thank you again for your kindness, I hope you know it is very much appreciated.”

“It is nothing that you do not deserve.” He said softly, shaping the dough like you’d shown him and cutting diagonal lines across the top. You flushed warm at his words, shaking your head as you placed the two loaves on the bread peel and moving them towards the oven.

“Would you like help, Snow?” You inquired as you moved towards where she stood in the kitchen, stirring the stew gently.

It was fragrant now; the smell of garlic and rosemary wafting through the small cottage and you took a deep, steadying breath in. Growing up, you rarely had the pleasure of such smells and tastes. Meat was expensive and the animals you did keep were more valuable alive than dead. If a chicken died, it would be utilized, but otherwise bread and porridge was the staple of your diet.

The river had sometimes provided fish, but your kingdom was far from the sea and that was often not available to you either. The first time you’d tasted meat was a gift from the king to your father. 1 pound of venison had been provided to your family when you were only 9 years old. Your mother hadn’t known what to do with it, so she’d boiled it plain and you’d eaten it with a potato at its side. It was a moment you’d never forget, though. A small glimpse into the life of the other side. You couldn’t have imagined a finer meal than that at the time.

“The only thing I need is for you to sit and enjoy yourself. Now that the bread is baking, we just need to wait. I am very grateful for your help these last few days. The company of another woman is invaluable, I have found.” She moved to stand across from you at the counter. “I am often alone in this cottage, and when the dwarfs are here, they speak mainly of the mines, which I find myself ill equipped to add comment to.”

You chuckled, sitting in a chair by the table. “They do love conversation of the mines. Even when I was a child and my mother would bring me; that was often a topic of great interest for them. I wonder that they have not found anything else to discuss.”

“When Jungkook and I were children at Hallen des Efeus, we would often talk of the same sorts of things. Things that don’t bear repeating; like our first fight. Do you remember that, Jungkook?”

“Yes of course.” Jungkook smiled.

“You were so cross with me.” Snow pouted over at him and he chuckled, rolling his eyes.

“You scolded me like a mother would her child!” He chided and she frowned, delicate hands moving to her hips.

“Well, you were behaving like a child, what was I to do?” Snow asked, the corner of her lips turning up with a smile.

“I was a child.” Jungkook insisted, pink dusting the apples of his cheeks.

“You were 13, that’s hardly a child.” Snow tutted, turning to look at you. “So you see, a woman’s company is a lovely thing to have. Yours is especially nice, don’t you agree, Jungkook?”

The prince’s blush deepened and you could feel your own face heating with embarrassment. Snow smiled coyly at you before turning back to the fire, stirring the soup once more.

“Of course, you’re both invaluable friends to me.” He said softly.

Just then the dwarfs returned, boisterous in their greetings as they dropped hammers and pickaxes by the door. “You’ve come again!” Sneezy cried happily, coming to pat you on the shoulder.

“Of course.” You smiled, watching Dopey kick his shoes off sloppily at the mouth of the doorway.

“Don’t you ever tire of us?” Grumpy muttered, sitting down at the table and combing his fingers through his long grey beard.

“Never!” you insisted, coming to stand beside him. “Especially not of you, Grumpy.” He grumbled loudly for your benefit, but you could see the slight upturn of the corner of his mouth. “Will you all play for us tonight? Doc, I would love to hear you play the mandolin again!”

Doc smiled, patting at his stomach as he came to stand behind his own chair. “For you, dear, anything. I request a dance, though. Nothing is as lovely as song and dance together.”

Normally you loved to dance while they played, but with the prince as a witness you suddenly felt stricken. You opened your mouth to excuse yourself but before you could, Snow was clapping excitedly and you turned to look at her.

“Oh, please let us dance!” She cried happily, rushing over to you to take your hands in her own. “I’ve not danced in so long.”

“I’m afraid I don’t know any serious dancing, only the kind of my village.” You admitted. The thought of dancing alongside her was equally daunting, no doubt with years of instruction under her belt. You felt ill equipped to even try.

“Then you shall be my teacher! I would love to learn the dances of your village.”

You turned to search for Jungkook, as though a pleading look might save you, but he simply smiled his encouragement. “Very well.” You replied timidly, “but after dinner!”

Time marched quickly on, as it tends to do when one is nervous, and once all the dishes were left to soak in warm water, the dwarfs retreated to grab their instruments. Grumpy and Doc both returned with their mandolins, Sneezy with his fiddle, and Sleepy with his pipe. The rest of you cleared the table and chairs from the center of the room and prepared to dance.

“Teach us the dance first and we shall copy!” Snow smiled, ushering you into the center and you cleared your throat, fingers digging into the skirts of your dress.

“First, you extend your foot like this, then you do a small jump, spin and clap.” You said softly, demonstrating the moves slowly so that Snow and Jungkook could follow your lead. None of the moves were particularly difficult, though you were sure this style of dancing was foreign to them.

When the dwarfs began to play, you and Happy demonstrated the dance in full. The music was jolly, the room quickly filling with laughter and clapping as you danced, allowing the high-pitched trill of the fiddle to guide you through the room.

The dwarfs stomped their feet loudly on the floor as you twirled through the motions of the dance with a laugh, closing your eyes to feel the quick tempo-ed rhythm. Happy grabbed your hands, swinging you in a circle around the room and you let out a delighted squeal as your vision blurred.

There was nothing quite like the rush of a dance; it always left you feeling light and free. You glanced towards Snow and Jungkook as the song slowly came to a close, curtsying for effect before looking back up.

The intensity of the prince’s gaze left you breathless; dark eyes following your movement as Snow clapped happily, rushing to your side and you quickly tore your eyes away from him.

“That looked like such fun. Let’s try, Jungkook!” She called.

He nodded, moving into the center of the circle and the music began again as you taught your friends the dance more earnestly. Happy, Dopey, and Bashful all moved along with you, clapping loudly as the loud stomping of their boots enhanced the mood of the room.

By the time Snow and Jungkook had learned the dance, the prince finally had a smile on his face. So serious and gloomy all night, he now moved gleefully, dancing and clapping as the song was reaching its crescendo. Both Happy and Dopey created a tunnel with their arms, Bashful taking Snow by the hands and bouncing through along with the tempo.

They called for you to join and Jungkook instantly reached out, grabbing your hands in his own and bouncing towards the bridge of their arms. You were surprised by his enthusiasm, but pleased all the same. His hands were warm around yours, leaving you feeling warm and tingly.

When the time came to return home, the prince insisted on walking you. It was dark enough to require a torch, which Doc lit for you at the hearth before wishing you both a safe trip home.

The forest was alive with activity so late at night. Crickets chirping and the business of animals who slept during the day. You walked in silence for a period of time, until the forest began to thin at the entrance. “I’m so glad that you could come tonight. Dancing always helps me to forget about the cares of the world, at least for a moment.”

Jungkook smiled softly, holding the torch carefully in front of the two of you. “Thank you. I’m glad I could come as well. It was nice to spend time with you again; I’m not always sure if I’ll be able to return.”

The silence was heavy at his admission, but you took it as an opportunity to navigate carefully from the opening of the forest and out onto the dirt pathway.

You stared up at the castle, darkness shrouding it in shadow. “I should really be walking you home.” You said, turning to look at him. “What is a peasant to a prince?”

“Nonsense.” Jungkook replied sharply. Your eyes flicked to his as his features softened. “You are just as worthy of protection as I am, Y/N. Perhaps more so. You are…you are very important to me.” He murmured, staring down at the road.

You felt like you’d been doused in flames at the admission, but he quickly cleared his throat, motioning with his hand to continue walking. He moved beside you as you walked along the dirt path towards your home. “My father scolded me today.” He admitted and you turned to look at him in surprise.

“For what?” You asked gently and he sighed, hand sliding into the pocket against his thigh after switching the torch to the other.

“A multitude of reasons. For being so absent recently, because he thinks I’m not taking my role as seriously as I should, because…because we’ve been seen together.” He finally said.

You felt like the air had been siphoned from your lungs. You’d been seen together? By whom and when? You’d been so careful recently; you couldn’t even imagine who in the kingdom would have seen you and recognized him.

“Jungkook, I’m so sorry!” You said, attempting to stop, but his hand placed gently at your elbow coaxed you into movement once more. “I had no idea anyone in the village had even recognized you.”

He smiled, ruefully, shaking his head. “I don’t know exactly who saw us, Y/N, but it was a servant in the castle. Again, I was an unpleasant child…not everyone likes me. I have much to repent of.”

“But you’ve changed!” You said heatedly. The idea of someone doing something so juvenile was astonishing. He had changed, you’d been witness to it over the last six weeks. You could no longer associate that young boy with the man now before you; they were completely different.

His fingers slipped away from your elbow, but not before leaving a soft trace against the skin of your forearm and your skin prickled with electricity. Maddening in his temptation, you looked away from him quickly as he swept dark hair from his eyes.

“Yes, I have changed, and I will prove that. Never fear. My father was unhappy, though. He insisted I start behaving like a king and insinuated that I not fraternize anymore.”

You’d reached the gate of your home where you paused; not wanting to rouse your parents before the prince could leave. You didn’t need anyone else to see him, especially not your father.

“So, then I suppose you mean to cut ties?” You questioned in a hushed voice. The thought of never being with him again left your chest aching, lungs burning in an effort to keep the emotion at bay.

“Only that we will have to be cleverer in our disguises.” The prince grinned and you looked up at him with a smile.

“Going against your father’s wishes? I supposed there is still some of that naughty little boy left in you.” You teased.

“As I said before, you are very important to me. I think the risk is worth it.” Once again you were left breathless, reeling from his declaration as he reached for your hand. Bringing this to his lips, he left a small kiss in the center as he gazed down at you, eyes dancing in the light of the torch. “Good night, Y/N. Sleep well.”

The square had filled with life by the time you’d weaved your way towards the bakery. Your mother had sent you for bread, but it was also an opportunity to stop and talk to your friend.

Else stood by the front of the shop, batting her eyelashes prettily at customers and encouraging them to buy a loaf. She spotted you from across the square, smile slipping from her face, and she turned to enter the shop quickly.

You paused a moment to ponder the strange behavior before resuming your walk to the bakery. You made it to the window just in time to hear Else’s father scolding her and insisting she return outside. Else moved stiffly towards the door, frown etched onto her lips and nose upturned as she moved to stand away from you.

“Is something the matter?” you asked, watching as she pointedly ignored you and called to another villager passing by.

“Would you be interested in rolls, ma’am?” she called at the harried looking woman who was wrangling two small children by her sides, a basket on her arm and their little fingers digging into the pockets of her apron. “They’re just come out and are lovely and warm.”

“No thank you, dear. I’ve made bread myself this morning.”

They disappeared into the throng of people before you moved from beside the window to talk to your friend. “Are you upset with me?” You inquired.

Else huffed, gaze shifting away from you. “If you should have to ask, then I find myself disappointed.” She paused for a long moment while you thought. You could not come up with an instance recently in which you’d made her upset and you turned to tell her so just when she spoke once more. “Where have you been? I’ve not seen you in what feels like forever.”

Time spent divided between morning chores and the prince had occupied so much of your time that you’d not had enough to spare for Else or Peter. Peter felt less neglected, you supposed, since he worked daily with your father from the comforts of your home. Else, though, had not seen you since the night of the prince’s ball.

“I did not realize it had been so long.” You admitted, “I apologize that I’ve neglected you; I’ve been busy recently.”

“Doing what?” She sniffed, still keeping her eyes dutifully away from you as she beckoned more people into the bakery.

“Well, I’ve met with my friend Jungkook a few days this week.” You started and she turned to look at you incredulously.

“The man from the other village?” She asked and you nodded. “You said he’d returned home.”

“Ah.” You cleared your throat. You’d not remembered saying that, but now that she mentioned it, you weren’t quite sure what to offer in return. “I…said that more for Peter’s benefit.”

“Why?” She asked, eyebrows furrowed before suddenly becoming animated, turning her whole body to face yours in excitement. “Does Jungkook court you?”

“What?” You asked, eyes widening. “No, of course not.”

Else deflated, frown returning to her pretty face. “Then why spend time with him? Y/N, your future is all but spoken for with Peter, it would be a good living. Why threaten that by spending time with another man who does not court you?”

“Don’t worry about Jungkook.” You sighed, shaking your head. “I want to apologize for leaving you neglected; that was not my intention. I promise to spend more time with you. Tonight is the village celebration; will you be there?”

“Of course.” She replied with a nod, “I’m never one to turn down a party.”

“Then we shall spend the whole night together, I promise!”

She looked like she wanted to refuse you, stew in her frustration a little longer, but she sighed, nodding. “Very well.” She accepted begrudgingly.

“Can I buy some bread while I’m here?” You said and she smiled, leading you back to the window of the bakery. “My mother requires one loaf.”

“Well, I suppose if it’s for your mother.” Else mused.

In the evening, once the sun had begun to set, you made your way with your father and mother towards the village center, carrying a pot with a stew your mother had made with some of the venison from the prince.

You could only imagine the shock of those who would try it. Most in the village had never had the opportunity to try this type of meat. Sometimes rabbit, but never venison.

The village was already lively with music and dancing, candles lit and circling the festivities. Peter’s family was nearby, Peter himself staring down at the food wistfully. Else was in the group dancing, stomping her feet loudly along with the fiddle and laughing as she spun in a circle with her mother.

Your mother took the pot from you, ushering you towards your friend and you rushed off, allowing Else to pull you into the dance. The musicians hollered loudly, feet pounding in quicker succession as the music picked up pace. Peter came to join the two of you, shouting along with the crowd as he moved.

Once you’d tired yourselves out, the three of you went to go sit with a bowl of your mothers stew. The nearby fountain had some space so you moved towards it, sitting along the stone, still warm from the sun.

“What is in this?” Else asked, eating happily and you looked over as she spooned some of the broth into her mouth.

“Potatoes, carrots, cabbage, garlic, rosemary, I think, and some venison. Those are the only things I know for sure. I had to come get the bread while my mother was preparing it.”

“Venison?” Else asked in surprise, nearly dropping her spoon into her bowl. “How did you come to get venison?”

“The prince sent it to our family.” You said softly, staring down into your bowl and using your spoon to cut into a potato. “I think as a thank you for preparing his clothing for the ball.”

“That’s very generous of him.” Peter commented lightly, but his expression was pinched and you weren’t quite sure if he really felt it was generous at all. “Does he send gifts often?”

You looked over at him, watching as he pushed his spoon through the stew, feigned disinterest masking his features. “Sometimes.” You shrugged, “not terribly often. He’s a prince after all, he has far more important things to do than send food to his tailor.”

“Does he send them to your father or to you?” Peter asked, looking up at you and you tried not to show your surprise.

“What business would the prince have sending me venison? I am neither the tailor nor the woman of the house.”

“You’re asking very strange questions, Peter.” Else said, dipping bread into the dregs of her soup.

Peter’s expression loosened, a small laugh erupting from his chest. “Yes, you’re right. I’m only teasing, of course.”

Only, he certainly looked like he was not teasing, despite the airy way in which he dismissed the topic. Else dominated the conversation for the next half hour, though your mind was distracted with unease. You’d been very careful not to be seen by your friends or the villagers with the prince over the last few weeks, though the majority of them didn’t know his face.

You wondered absently if Peter would talk to your father soon. His discomfort at the idea of the prince sending anything to you left you feeling somewhere between baffled and concerned. You didn’t feel ready to move forward with him yet…especially not now that you’d discovered your own blooming feelings for Jungkook.

Then again, no time was ideal in cases such as these.

“Alaric has spoken with my father.” Else said suddenly and your attention was quickly pulled back to the conversation.

“He has expressed his desire to court you?” You asked excitedly, placing your empty bowl beside you.

Else shook her head no and your shoulders sunk in dismay. “No, actually, he has asked for my father’s permission to have my hand. We are to be married in the morning.”

“What?!” You squawked loudly and Else shushed you with a blush across her cheeks.

“You’re so embarrassing.” She complained as both you and Peter leaned in closer to hear her. “Yes, you heard me correctly. He sought my hand in marriage and my father gave him permission. We are to be married in the morning.” She said it with all the air of someone who was shy of the admission but you could see the pleased look in her eyes, the small smile tucked in the corner of her mouth.

She looked happy. Though she’d never said it out loud, you knew she liked Alaric more than all the other young men in the village. He was kind, jolly, and hardworking. You couldn’t imagine a better man for your best friend.

“I’m very happy for you.” You smiled, reaching for her hand and squeezing. “We are invited, are we not?”

“Of course.” Else nodded, looking between both you and Peter. “If you’re not there I’ll be very cross with both of you.”

“You should have told me sooner; I could have made you a pretty dress!” Peter complained.

Else tutted, brushing dark strands of hair from her face. “With what fabric?”

Peter shrugged bashfully. “I would have found something.” He mumbled.

“Do you remember when we were children?” You asked suddenly, both of your friend’s eyes darting to look at you. “We would lay out in the fields during spring, picking daisies to make jewelry, and pretend we lived in a fairytale.”

“Yes, of course.” Else said, “Those are some of my favorite memories.”

“Do you ever wish you could go back?” You ventured on, staring up at the stars. They were bright this evening, slightly obstructed by the roofs of the buildings. The view from your family’s small garden was much more beautiful. The thought suddenly made you wish you were back there, laying in the sunbaked grass by the walls of your cottage.

“What has brought this on?” Peter questioned.

“Nothing in particular, I suppose I’m just feeling sentimental. Things were simpler when we were children. I miss that.”

The musicians started a new song, just as lively and happy as the others and it made you feel strange to be so melancholy at such an occasion.

“Of course, I miss it in ways.” Else admitted. “We had nothing to vex us but the occasional scolding from our parents. I was an ugly little thing, though. I don’t miss that at all.” Her nose wrinkled at the thought and you chuckled, rolling your eyes.

“Be serious.” You chastised and she smiled.

“I am being serious. I was dreadfully plain and I love the attention being beautiful has brought me. Besides, I’m to be a married woman tomorrow, I feel nothing but happiness at the prospect. If I went back in time, I wouldn’t have that.”

“I suppose that is what makes me reminisce. Marriage is…it’s scary, don’t you think? I don’t feel ready.” You said it softly with eyes still trained on the sky, though you could see Peter’s shoulder stiffen from your peripheral.

“Marriage doesn’t have to be scary, if you marry someone who loves you dearly.” He said gently. Peter was a good man; perhaps better than you deserved. Especially since your heart pined for another who was already destined for someone else. And Peter loved you. Why couldn’t that just be enough?

“Yes,” you admitted with a whisper, “but shouldn’t I love him too?”

The voices of your friends quieted as the music and cheers of the villagers swelled. “I suppose you should.” Peter eventually acquiesced. “Couldn’t you learn to love someone, though?”

“Perhaps,” you nodded, “but how long would that take? One year? Five? 20? My whole life?”

You left the question as it was; hanging heavy in the air. The answer to your question was that there was no answer. You’d spent your whole life with Peter and still didn’t love him the way he loved you. You didn’t think you ever would, though sometimes you felt it would make things much easier.

To have your heart’s desire…well, it would never happen so what was the point in dwelling there? It was a tree that would bear no fruit, but still, trying to convince the heart otherwise was near impossible.

“Come, let’s not talk of such things.” Else said, standing quickly and pulling you to your feet. “Let’s dance. You too Peter! I don’t want any heavy feelings before my wedding day.”

The night waxed late and you filled your bellies with mead to forget before you all retired to your homes.

It was muggy when you dressed in the morning. Like the tepid air beside a swamp, you felt clammy and uncomfortable as you fastened your dress about yourself. Your head throbbed uncomfortably and you kept one eye firmly shut as you clung to the last tendrils of sleep.

You had no time for breakfast before leaving, but the fresh morning air was enlivening as your family made way up into the center of the village. You wondered absently what Else’s father would do now that his daughter would run a home and no longer be able to attract visitors to his bakery. The last of his children to get married; Else was the youngest of seven, six of whom were brothers.

The church came into view, in the center of the upper part of the village, just below the hill that housed the mill and its occupants. Sprawling gardens and a small cemetery greeted you as you entered the gate, making your way to the large wooden doors.

Else stood just inside the door in a deep purple dress, her mother fussing over her hair which had been braided over the top of her head and adorned with flowers. She looked beautiful and once again you felt envious.

She was radiant not only because she was beautiful, but because she was so happy. Staring across the church at her soon to be husband, her smile filled her cheeks.
You wondered what it would feel like to stand at the altar with the one you loved; so happy you could hardly contain the emotion. You glanced out of the window where you could see the castle looming over the lake. Beautiful in its majesty, blue spires intense in the glow of the sun.

Once again, your thoughts turned to the prince and your mood soured. Someday, perhaps soon, an announcement would go through out the kingdom for his wedding. A marriage to, quite possibly, the fairest woman of them all.

A woman that wasn’t you.

Chapter Text

A month had passed since Else’s wedding and the summer was slowly coming to an end. It made it easier to do chores when the air was cooler; more pleasant to sit outside and do the washing. Though you’d mostly neglected that for the last few weeks.

You hadn’t seen your friend as much since her marriage and so you’d spent even more time with the dwarfs and Snow in their cottage. The prince joined most nights, bringing food and humor with him. You’d quickly learned he was a master of terrible jokes and couldn’t help but like him all the more for it.

This morning your mother had sent you in search of berries. She claimed to want to make preserves, but you were wise enough to know she just wanted to go see a friend and gossip. You didn’t mind so much as you chose to dawdle around the edge of the forest, plucking blueberries from bushes and placing them in your basket.

You saw the prince making his way towards you long before he reached you. The sight of him made your insides feel funny, like little wings sweeping delicately against your ribcage and you bent down to survey a raspberry bush, plucking eagerly at the juicy red fruit.

“Good morning.” The prince greeted as he reached your side and you stood straight to gaze up at him.

“Good morning, Jungkook. You’re out very early today; normally I don’t see you until evening.”

“I finished my lessons early today.” He grinned, something mischievous in his twinkling eyes, and you felt that perhaps he’d snuck out before actually finishing his training.

“I hope you won’t get a tongue lashing for this.” You teased, moving further up the path towards a strawberry bush and plucking one to try. “Mmm, they’re amazing right now. Would you like to try one?”

You moved to take another bite of yours, but the prince was faster, grabbing your wrist and pulling the berry towards his mouth, allowing plump lips to encircle the rest of the berry and separate it from its calyx.

For a moment, everything stilled, your heart thumping wildly in your chest as his fingers remained delicately around your wrist. His gaze was wild; heated on yours as he stepped towards you. Heart racing, you let the end of the strawberry fall from your finger tips and onto the ground.

“Sweet.” He murmured, licking the juice from the corner of his mouth and your vision was pulled toward the sight before you quickly looked away.

The prince paused before stepping back, staring down at the strawberry bush and into your own basket. “You’re picking berries this morning? May I help?”

“Yes, of course.” You nodded, turning back to the strawberry bush and plucking fresh fruit to drop into your basket. “There’s more in the forest.” You signaled, beginning to walk and he followed after you.

“What were you studying today?” You asked as you began to pick from new bushes. Jungkook stood nearby, loading his hand with blueberries.

“Foreign politics and language specifically. These are topics that I studied in school as well, but my father wants me polished in the policies of our own kingdom, of course.”

“Are foreign policies of other lands so different from our own?” You asked, walking closer to him so he could drop the berries in his hands into your basket.

“It depends on the country.” He mused, crouching low to pick from more difficult spots. “The ones nearby are very similar, but across waters it begins to diversify greatly. Of course, all people are human at their core, intrinsically the same if we’re all torn down to the beginnings, but traditions and belief systems vary. It’s good to have a working knowledge of any land we may come to have dealings with.”

“Ah, the duties of a king.” You smiled softly as he stood to his full height beside you. The prince drifted closer to you as you weaved your way deeper into the forest. Close enough that you could feel the graze of his sleeve against yours, smell the fresh saffron against his tunic.

“Duty, I find, is a very inconvenient thing.” He looked at you and you pondered his words curiously.

“What do you mean?” You inquired gently, slowing your pace to match his.

“Always to be bound to one’s duty, never to allow the heart to decide.”

You paused a moment. “And what does the heart wish for?” You whispered, looking up at him. He’d come to a stop and you stilled as well, turning to face him.

“I think you know.” He returned just as softly. The weight of his words was heavy to bear; it brought with it a joy you’d felt was impossible. You had hoped he would say something like that; that he’d been feeling what you were feeling.

You were flush with warmth at the admission. “But your heart cannot have its desires?”

He smiled sadly, eyes softening as he looked at you. “Duty, you see. It seems it bends for no one.”

“I wish it would.” You admit timidly and he sighed, taking your hand carefully in his own.

“As do I.”

“Snow says we mustn’t worry now, after all, the future continues and we do not know what it holds.” You smiled, feigning an optimism you didn’t really feel. If even a prince could not choose for himself, why should you feel things could be any different for you?

At least you knew you weren’t the only one wishing.

“Should we go see her?” Jungkook smiled and you nodded. He released your hand and you strode ahead of him, leading him further into the forest and eventually into the clearing that held the dwarf’s cottage.

Snow was not alone when you arrived; however, and the two of you stood startled in the doorway as you took notice of her with a young man by the hearth of the fire.

They looked up at the two of you as the door swung open and Snow smiled, coming to pull you into a hug.

“You’ve come!” She cried happily. “I was so hoping you would. I wanted to introduce you both to my friend, Diterich. He’s the one I told you of, who saved me.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, your highness.” Diterich said, bowing low. “Ma’am.” He said, inclining his head towards you and you smiled in return.

He was a handsome young man, dark, shaggy blonde hair and bright green eyes. He was well built and had a bow strapped to his back; you wondered if that was his profession. He was certainly not close to Snow in rank, but he held himself as though he were made for something more than his station in life and you liked that quiet confidence. You supposed Snow did too, based on the way she looked at him.

Love sick. It made your heart ache for her and you looked carefully over at Jungkook. Destiny had not been kind to any of you.

“I’ve heard of your kindness to my friend.” Jungkook said, “When everything is well again, you should be rewarded.”

Diterich shook his head, staring down at Snow, the same look of love she’d bestowed on him, and smiled. “With all due respect, your highness, I didn’t do it for reward.”

“I like you all the better for it.” Jungkook smiled. “How did you come to find her, though?”

“Snow sent me a communication through letter. One of the dwarfs found me in Snow’s kingdom, at her direction, and delivered it personally. I am indebted to him. It has given me much comfort to see her safe and well. I am only sorry I could not bring her some of her clothes.”

Snow waved his comment away. “It is a small inconvenience. Besides, I am far happier to have your company than to have all my dresses back. All three of you. Will you be staying for supper?”

She looked to both Jungkook and yourself and you smiled with a shrug. “It’s still so early in the day so it’s hard to say, but I imagine I’ll be able to spare some time this evening.”

“I should hope so! By the way, did you happen to notice if there are any gooseberry bushes nearby? I want to make a pie tomorrow.”

You nodded, pointing out the window. “Yes, in fact, there are some just before the tree line. Over there.”

“Wonderful!” Snow cried, clapping her hands together. “Then tomorrow you can expect some pie.”

“I’ll be looking forward to it.” You said.

“Snow has said you’ve been friends since childhood.” Jungkook said suddenly, “but I never did ask how the two of you had met.”

He inspected them with the same interest you had and you wondered if he could see what you could. The prince was intelligent, so you imagined the shared looks of longing had not been missed. Diterich looked to Snow before answering.

“We met as children. My father was a huntsman in their court and I was raised to take his place. As children, we would play in the castle together. We got into trouble a lot,” he grinned, “a princess wasn’t meant to be wrestling with a common boy. Kindred spirits, my mother would say. When my father passed, I took his place as a huntsman in the royal court. Youngest in Vildüngan history.”

His chest puffed as he said it and you smiled. “Your family must be very proud.”

He nodded, expression dropping suddenly. “My mother and sister are all I have left. They’re in hiding, though. As am I. The queen found out about the pig’s heart and ordered my head. It’s why I came here; to warn Snow.”

You looked to the princess in alarm, but she smiled at you with all the serenity of one whose life isn’t in perpetual danger. “She doesn’t know I’m here.” Snow assured, squeezing your arm. “All is well.”

“We need to start thinking of ways to get you back to your kingdom. You’re its rightful heir!” Jungkook insisted and she tutted, moving away from the hearth of the fire and towards the kitchen to keep her hands busy.

“It will all work out somehow, I have faith.” She replied flippantly and Jungkook looked angry.

“Why won’t you take this seriously?” He chastised. “She wants you dead and is actively seeking your heart. Let my father help, we can do something; go against her.”

“No.” She insisted, turning sharply to look at him. “I don’t want anyone else to be pulled into this. No one need inconvenience or injure themselves on my behalf. I’m already uneasy with how many people are involved; how many lives are directly affected because of this…I won’t have anymore.”

“But,” Jungkook began once more but was silenced as she frowned at him.

“I said no, Jungkook.”

The prince sighed, rubbing at his forehead in frustration. “Fine, I can’t make you take your safety more seriously. I must return home.” He bowed before turning towards the door and you looked from Snow back to Jungkook before following him out into the clearing, basket full of berries swinging from your arm.

“Jungkook!” You called, rushing to his side. He didn’t slow so you walked with him through the forest in silence. Just as the trees were thinning, Jungkook slowed his pace, sighing loudly.

“I’m afraid I won’t be seeing you again until the day after next.” At your questioning look, he proceeded. “My father and I are expecting foreign dignitaries this evening and we will play host until tomorrow evening as well. I won’t have time to spare while they’re here.”

“Duty, as you say.” You smiled. He returned your soft smile, nodding and reaching for your hand.

“I will be seeing you.” He said, leaving a soft kiss on the back of your hand before making his way back up to the castle.

Your mother was in the garden when you returned, cutting cucumbers from their stalks. She looked up as you came through the gate, waving you over.

“Why did it take so long to pick berries?” Your mother asked with a frown, taking the basket from your arms.

“I went to say hello to the dwarfs while I was in the area.” You said, bending down beside her and helping to dig up carrots at her direction.

“You’re there too often these days; what business does a young woman have visiting 7 old men so often? Aren’t they in the mines at this time of day anyway?”

You sighed, brushing hair from your face as you dropped a couple carrots into the basket beside your mother. “Well, now that Else is married I don’t always have anyone to visit.”

Your mother frowned. “Perhaps you should think of getting married soon.” She said and you looked up at her startled.

“Get married? It’s not that easy, mother. I’m not even being courted.”

She gave you a look, eyes shifting over to the house. “If you gave a little more effort where prudent, perhaps that wouldn’t be a problem.”

You sighed, shaking your head and pulling another carrot from the dirt. “I’m not in love with Peter.” You whispered.

Your mother laughed, wiping her hands on her skirt. “Love? We don’t have that luxury, my dear. You know that.” She stood, hands extended for the basket full of vegetables and you handed it up to her before standing and grabbing your own basket with berries. “I expect you here all day tomorrow. You’ve been neglecting your duties and it’s time you start preparing to run a house of your own. Time waits for no one, you know.”

She walked into the house and you watched after her, chewing on your bottom lip as you willed the tears of frustration back. You wiped your hands on the apron over your dress before walking into the house and out of the sun.

Peter and your father were in the corner, both working with new fabrics. Peter looked up at you, offering a small smile before returning to his work and you sighed softly to yourself. Why couldn’t you just love him?

Your hands were sore. You’d been at the river all morning with your mother washing linen. It had been your job to beat the linen with a poss-stick as your mother insisted that’s what youth was for. You wondered if you’d ever be able to move again. What good was youth if it was wasted away on chores?

Hands feeling like they might just fall off, you wrung out the last of the fabrics before dropping it in your basket and heaving this onto your hip. Your mother chatted aimlessly as you walked from the riverside and around the edge of the forest towards your home.

You cast your eyes up towards the castle as it came into view around the bend of the trees and wondered idly what Jungkook was doing today. You knew he was entertaining foreign dignitaries, of course, but you couldn’t even imagine what that entailed. Perhaps they were holed up in some room discussing trade.

“Can you imagine living there?” Your mother asked, taking note of your gaze. You sighed, looking from her and back to the castle.

“Only in our dreams, mother.”

She hummed, shifting her own laundry basket in her arms. “If we lived in a place like that, I imagine we could have someone else tend to our washing. Our cooking, too. What must their food be like, hmm?”

You chuckled, kicking a pebble across the dirt path. “I suppose we’ll never know. Grand, I imagine, though. Warm potatoes and bread, sweet dessert’s whenever we ask for them. I would eat everything and die happy if I were them.”

“Thanks to the prince, we can have some share in their prosperity.” Your mother commented and you could see her looking at you from the corner of her eye. “He’s been very generous, as of late.”

You nodded; eyes trained on the dirt path beneath your feet. “Yes, he has been very kind.”

“He was never so kind when he was a boy. I wonder at the change.” She remarked and you wondered if she suspected more than she let on. She’d never seen the two of you together; aside from when he and his father had visited your home a few months ago.

“Perhaps he had a very good education.” You said as the roof of your home came into view. “Rumor has it he went to a school for training.”

“Rumor, you say?” She asked and you nodded, pushing through the gate in front of your house.

Conversation stopped then as the two of you went about hanging the laundry from the lines and working in the garden. Peter and your father were working on mending clothing in the home, so you didn’t feel like discussing the king and his son in their presence. It seemed your mother was also of the same mind set.

As the sun waned and the evening became cooler, Peter left your home with goodbyes and well wishes. You were only just finishing supper when the wind outside began to howl. Your father peeked his head outside the door and you watched as you ladled stew into bowls.

“A storm is approaching.” He commented softly. “I must make sure the animals are secured.” He left the home to the small stable behind your house and you listened as the wind whistled loudly from outside the walls.

“We’ve not had rain in a while.” Your mother said, helping you to bring the food to the small table. “It will be good for the crops.”

The storm raged loudly through the night, rain pounding against the timber frame of your home. It was difficult to sleep with all the noise; thunder and lightning bursting loudly across the sky. Your father's snores soon lulled you into a fitful sleep.

Mornings after a storm were your favorite. The calm as opposition to the fierce raging of wind the night before a reminder that brighter days always followed the rain. You’d managed to convince your mother to allow you to check on the dwarfs this morning. You imagined they were mostly protected from the elements in their place among the trees. Even so.

After a quick breakfast of pottage, you dressed and made your way towards the forest. The sun was already sitting comfortably in the sky, illuminating the crystal blue sky and you listened happily to the sounds of birds singing as you walked through the fields.

You found, to your surprise, the prince already waiting by the forests edge. He sat upon a boulder; legs draped out in front of him as he pulled blades of grass apart as distraction. He looked up as your footsteps roused his attention, smile spreading across his lips.

“Y/N.” He beamed, standing and coming to meet you.

“I’m surprised to see you so early!” You exclaimed. “Won’t your father be missing you?”

“Actually, he and our guests drank well into the evening. They will be spending the next few hours recovering in bed.” He said with a roguish grin and you chuckled, making your way into the forest.

The prince followed quickly. “Did you not drink yourself, your majesty?” You teased and he smiled at you.

“I did, but only a little. I knew I wanted to use the opportunity to see you.”

You looked away with a small chuckle, playing with a piece of hair you’d left loose in your haste. “Well, here I am.” You smiled. Before you could continue, there was a heavy rustling in the trees and both you and Jungkook stopped, watching with unease as something came crashing through the branches.

To your surprise; it was the dwarfs who came rushing into sight and they stopped suddenly, panting before you.

“Y/N, your highness!” Doc gasped, clutching at his rounded belly as he took deep steadying breaths. The panic in his tone was palpable and your back straightened in alarm.

“What’s wrong?” You asked. Jungkook seemed just as tense from their unusual greeting and you waited with baited breath for your friends to continue.

“It’s Snow.” Doc finally said and your alarm rose.

“What of her?” The prince asked sharply and all eyes turned to him. The dwarfs were still breathing heavily from their run; disrupting the usual quiet of the forest.

“Your majesty!” Sleepy blubbered, hardly able to contain himself. “Snow has died.”

“What?!” You gasped, eyes swiveling desperately to each face, all as stricken as the next.

“How?!” The prince demanded and Doc was quick to try and calm the atmosphere.

“She has not died.” He pacified. Your chest was so tight you thought it might burst. How could someone possibly die and not die all at the same time? “She’s been put under a spell; a sleeping spell.”

“I don’t understand.” Jungkook said tersely. You’d never seen him look so distraught.

“Allow me to explain.” Doc continued, “An old hag came to the cottage when we were away. She had a basket of apples. I’m unsure how, but Snow came to acquire one.”

“It was poisoned and that foolish girl took a bite.” Grumpy cried furiously.

Doc tried once more to continue, but Happy spoke first. “We chased the hag, but it was difficult in the storm. Chased her up the mountain but she slipped and fell off. It was the queen, your majesty. It was her stepmother.”

“Did you capture her?” Jungkook asked angrily, back ramrod straight as he paced back and forth. “Did you tie her up to be tried for her crimes?”

“No need,” Bashful said, shaking his head. “The queen is dead. She died from the fall.”

“What of Snow?” You rasped, “where is she?”

“That’s why we were coming for you, your highness.” Doc said once again. “It was old magic the queen used; ancient. Unless she can find true loves kiss, she’ll remain asleep forever. We can take you to her.”

“True loves kiss?” Jungkook asked, voice cracking in his grief.

The dwarfs nodded. “It’s the only cure.” Sneezy bemoaned. “That’s why we came to find you, your highness.”

“Me?” Jungkook asked, looking at you and then back to the dwarfs.

They looked to you; gazes filled with pity before Doc spoke once more. “You are her betrothed, your highness. If not you, then who?”

The pain in your chest was severe. Fracturing from the loss of a friend; ripping apart as the prospect of losing the one man you truly loved loomed like a shadow over you.

“What do I have to do?” He whispered and you looked up at him.

“True loves kiss.” Dopey murmured, eyes shifting over to you sadly and then back to the prince.

It was silent for what felt like eternity, the gravity of the situation sinking in and you felt buried under the weight of it; the forest floor waiting to accept you. The prince looked to you, tears already in his eyes, but your own vision of him quickly blurred.

"I have to try." Jungkook choked and you could feel your heart break a little more, "she's one of my closest friends. I can't sit back and do nothing; I couldn't live with myself. I have to try."

"I understand." You murmured. "What if you're able to wake her?"

Jungkook paused, his eyelashes fluttering closed, a line drawing between his eyes. "Let's not think about it right now. I have to go." He gave you one last glance before darting further into the forest with the dwarfs and out of sight.

Was it possible to die from a broken heart? You were sure the question had been asked before...you were also sure the answer was yes. Your heart ached in a way you'd never imagined it could.

The love of your life was running to the side of another woman, and though you knew his reasoning was righteous and sound, you ached for the inevitable outcome. A prince was meant to be with a princess. This was no fairy tale, not for you, at least. You can't always have what you want.

But as you stood there in the grass, surrounded by your broken dreams, you mourned what you could never have had. Even if Snow had not eaten the apple, even had she not been born at all, you would never have been given your heart’s desire; your class was decided before you were born and you would do well to remember it.

When Snow awoke, as she inevitably would, you would be left to watch them marry. Worse still, your father would likely be commissioned to make Jungkook's wedding clothes and you would be expected to help. That was a bitter truth you could not swallow. To carry the wedding clothing of the man you were desperately in love with...only for him to wear them with someone else.

You could not do it.

Your feet began to take you before your mind could catch up. The dwarves’ home, tucked delicately between the trees and the stream. The lighting surrounding the cottage was dim despite the morning hour, the house dark in the absence of the once warm lighting; filled with the dwarfs and Snow's laughter and song.

Now it felt as empty as your heart. The evening turned chilly, the storm from yesterday taking with it the sun from the late summer and you shivered at the thresh hold, lifting your hand carefully to push against the door.

With a soft creak, the door swung open and you glanced inside. In their haste, everything had been left exactly as it was. An uncooked gooseberry pie sat on the counter top, flour strewn across. The fire in the fire place had long gone out. And there, by the table, an apple with one bite.

You stood in the door way a moment, staring down at the beautiful red skin of the nearly pristine apple. Contemplating. You could not bear to face a future without him in it.

With three quick strides, you picked up the apple and ran from the house, seeking out the privacy the trees afforded you. Not far from the home, in a particularly dense part of the forest, you stood staring down at the beautiful, red fruit.

A choice, so simple yet so difficult. One bite; you knew that's all it would take...but was it really worth it? The light was fading fast this deep in the forest and you shivered, looking around in the darkness.

You thought of Jungkook again, of his handsome, smiling face. His kind and gentle heart, his loyalty and good nature. Was he with Snow White now? Had she already woken up? He was no longer your Jungkook; forever the kingdoms Jungkook and your heart wept.

You wouldn't even be missed.

Staring down at the apple you closed your eyes, breathing slowly out of your nose before bringing it to your lips and taking a bite. It was bitter, acidic, and it burned. You coughed, dropping the apple to the ground and fell to your knees, spluttering, eyes watering as your tongue swelled and you felt your blood turn to ice in your veins.

Everything hurt, your limbs felt like they were made of fire, burning, burning, burning and then black.

Chapter Text

It's not true what they say about death. The black doesn't remain. You were surrounded by swirling shades of violet, fuchsia, and azure. Lights bursting behind the shade of your quickly cooling eyelids. Your limbs were stiff but your vision was alive and swelling. There was a consciousness you'd never known death could hold, that allowed thoughts and dreams to roam openly.

Visions of yellow daisies erupting left you breathless when suddenly there was an explosion of color and you were gasping for air, eyes shooting open and blinking in the confusion of the aftermath.

Fingers tingling and breast heaving, your vision finally came into focus and your gaze shifted to the figure leaning over you. "Jungkook?" You breathed.

Jungkook's eyes were red, cheeks swollen with tears and you watched in surprise as he lurched forward, burying his face in your chest and crying. "I thought I’d lost you!" He wailed. "How could you do something so stupid? I need you, you're everything to me!"

Your breathing was shallow, evening out with the life that was filling your chest. "What about Snow?"

"I could not wake her. Only true loves kiss can break the spell."

"How did I wake up?" You asked softly.

"I kissed you." Jungkook murmured, his tears slowing with his exhale as he lifted himself from you.

You took a deep breath as you tried to allow your thoughts to settle. "You...kissed...me?"

"I had to try." He whispered, "I love you."

You watched his face carefully as you took deep breaths. Your body felt heavy from death, like you'd slept too deeply and woken suddenly. "Help me sit up?" You asked softly and Jungkook complied, helping you to sit up against the trunk of a tree.

You were still in the forest and morning light was seeping through the openings of the trees. "How long have I been...asleep?" You asked delicately. The dwarfs stood behind Jungkook's kneeling figure, faces the picture of relief.

Jungkook frowned, eyes dimming. "You were missing 3 days. The dwarf's found you this morning and I came as soon as I could. I thought I'd lost you." He repeated weakly.

"I'm sorry." You mumbled. "I thought I would never see you again and couldn't bear the thought of it. It was a very selfish thing to do, I admit,"

"Yes, it was." Jungkook scolded and you stared in surprise. "Death is a very permanent solution to such a temporary problem. You can't just have a tantrum when things don't go your way. Even if I had been able to wake Snow you would have recovered from the disappointment. We all recover and move on with our lives, that's the way of things."

"I thought you said you loved me, why are you yelling at me?" You muttered into your lap.

"I do love you," Jungkook sighed, "but I'm mad at you."

You nodded, clasping your hands together. "I understand." Silence descended and you blinked in thought. "What will happen to Snow? Will she remain asleep forever?"

Jungkook paused, blinking down at you before pushing his hair from his brow. "I find in my sorrow I neglected to tell you everything. Snow is alive and well."

Your eyes jumped up to his, eyebrows knitting together. "But you said you couldn't wake her."

"I couldn't." Jungkook affirmed, "But it turns out the huntsman could."

"Oh." You breathed.

You supposed you shouldn't have been so surprised; all the signs were there. You had just been so consumed with Jungkook and his destiny that you hadn't paid much attention to what could have been happening between Snow and Diterich.

"Perhaps we could make our way inside." Doc smiled and you glanced over Jungkook's shoulder to return the gesture. "We are preparing supper and have warm blankets. It will take some time to recover from the effects of the poison."

Jungkook stood suddenly, sliding his arms under your legs and around your waist to hoist you into his arms. "Please, lead the way."

The fire was warm and full as Jungkook placed you in the large chair in front of it, taking the proffered blanket from one of the dwarfs and spreading it over your body. You felt a bit too warm as you sat there, watching everyone prepare the food but Doc insisted you stay exactly as you were so that the heat could help you sweat out the remnants of the poison; much like a fever.

"What now?" You asked softly, holding onto Jungkook's hand while he sat on the floor beside you. "Your father will be extremely unhappy about this turn of events."

"I imagine so." Jungkook mused, staring into the flames. Silence engulfed the two of you and you chewed on the inside of your bottom lip in thought. Even now, with Jungkook at your side and Snow awake from another's kiss, there were no guarantees Jungkook's father wouldn't still insist on them marrying. They were betrothed, after all.

"I suppose it's unreasonable to think you could be with a commoner." You murmured, bottom lip trembling despite yourself. "I understand if you have to go."

Jungkook turned to look at you sharply. "I have no intention of leaving you. I thought I lost you twice, I will not lose you again."

"But your father!" You insisted, sniffing and rubbing a tear from the corner of your eye.

"I don't care." Jungkook said, lifting onto his knees and sitting in front of you. "You own my heart; totally and completely. I can't continue without you and I refuse to do so. I've tried to do my duty my entire life and now I want to do something for me."

"How selfish of you." You smiled softly, a gesture that he returned, lifting your hand to his lips and leaving a soft kiss.

"We're all entitled to a little selfishness sometimes."

"Well come now," Happy beamed, patting his belly cheerfully, "the supper is ready and we should have full stomachs before such heavy talk."

"Stay put and we'll bring some over to you." Doc hummed, ladling some of the stew into a wooden bowl and handing it to Grumpy to bring to you.

"Thank you." You murmured, taking the bowl from him and he offered you one of his rare smiles, patting the top of your hand.

"You really scared us, girl."

"I'm sorry." You whispered, "I really am. I didn't realize how many people my decision would impact."

"You have many people that love you, dear." Doc smiled, bringing a bowl to Jungkook and sitting down across from you with his own. "Sometimes we don't see what's right in front of us, but it doesn't mean it's not there. We're glad you're safe."

"I would miss you." Bashful blushed and Dopey nodded his head vigorously.

"I would miss you too." You smiled.

"Well, tuck in. Sleepy, could you bring the bread?" Doc called. The other dwarfs came with their own bowls and a loaf of bread that everyone divided between them.
Conversation was light and jolly as they talked of music and celebrations. The bread was warm and buttered, melting on your tongue and the stew was hearty and filling.

By the time you'd finished your food you felt full and as though you'd sweat a river.

Jungkook looked at you, chuckling. "You'll need to wash yourself."

"How preposterous. Commenting on my state in such a way." You tutted, attempting to push the blanket from your lap before Doc pushed it back up, insisting you wait.

"We'll prepare a bath for you. We've sent for your mother; she will help to bathe you."

"Oh, that's not necessary!" You insisted, face warming.

"My dear child," he said softly, holding your hand in his own and speaking gently, "you've been dead for 3 days. You’ll need the help. Would you prefer one of us help you bathe?" He chuckled.

Jungkook looked positively mortified, "what an outrageous jest!" He said, gesticulating wildly, "that would be completely improper."

"I see your sense of humor remains stiff and serious." Grumpy commented offhandedly, shuffling from the room.

The dwarfs settled back into their conversations; comfortable by the warmth of the fire. Shame filled your chest as you stared down at the prince, still sat on the floor beside you, fingers locked around yours. His face was puffy and red from crying and your heart thumped uncomfortably at the thought that you’d caused him so much pain.

“Jungkook.” You murmured and he looked up at you, eyes wide in inquiry. “I’m so sorry. I wasn’t thinking…I just assumed that you’d be able to wake her and I would be forgotten…I couldn’t…I just couldn’t handle it. I’m so sorry.”

Jungkook hurried to his knees, rubbing the tears from your cheeks with his thumb as he soothed you with gentle words. “I know. I would have missed you terribly. I did miss you terribly. I was nearly out of my mind with grief when we found you.”

“I’m so sorry.” You said once again, watching his dark eyes flicker across your face; surveying him so close you could hardly believe you were here and now. “And…I love you too.”

Your heart jumped nervously at the proclamation. Even though he’d been the first to say it, it was terrifying to say out loud. The nature of your relationship was altogether forbidden and yet you craved him, yearned for him, loved him. Anyone but him would never be enough.

Tears sprung from your eyes once more; unbidden and heavy in their tracks across your cheeks.

“I know.” He whispered, nodding and stroking your cheeks once more. “It’s such a tragedy that our first kiss was while you were sleeping, don’t you think?”

You watched as he smiled, eyes crinkling at the sides. His tone of voice was playful and you pouted at him. “Don’t tease me if you mean nothing by it.” You chastised.

He grinned, glancing around the room quickly before leaning forward to press his lips against yours. “Better?”

“That was too quick.” You breathed, reaching forward and pulling him back to you by the nape of his neck. He was warm against you, hands resting on the arms of the chair to your side as he tilted his head to fit comfortably against your mouth.

“Your mother has arrived.” Doc called from by the window and you pulled away from the prince quickly, glancing towards the door.

Jungkook stood, moving closer to the fireplace as your mother entered, eyes sunken and dark. The guilt floored you once again as you took in her expression; the fear, confusion, anger. She glanced around the room, eyes darting towards the prince.

“Your highness.” She croaked, head bowing slightly before she moved towards you.

Your chest seized as she came to sit in front of you, eyes filling with tears and you couldn’t have felt smaller. “You stupid girl,” she whispered, hands shakily moving to grab yours resting on your lap. Her tears flowed freely now. “Are we nothing to you? Your father and I? Are we not deserving of your thoughts?”

“I’m so sorry.” You whispered, bottom lip trembling.

Her head fell into your lap, shoulders shaking with her cries and you felt the flames of tears licking at your throat. You didn’t feel like you deserved to cry now; not when you’d caused so much pain. It hadn’t even crossed your mind how many people cared. You felt foolish for ever having doubted.

Your mother raised her head, standing and wiping at her cheeks. “Would someone be kind enough to help me bring her to the bath?”

The prince immediately stepped forward. “I would be honored.” He said softly. They both helped you to move slowly to the bathing room, your arms around their shoulders and you felt like your chest might burst open from shame.

Jungkook helped you to sit on the stool by the bath before excusing himself, closing the door behind himself. Your mother worked to undo the bindings of your dress, sliding in from your form and you shivered. She’d not bathed you since you were a child and your mortification continued to mount.

“So, it’s the prince then?” She said as she unfolded a cloth and sat it on the edge of the tub before helping you to stand and step into the water. It was warm and smelled sweet like lavender. Your bones sunk heavily into the wooden basin. “He’s the one that you’ve been going to see?”

You glanced up at her, chewing your bottom lip before nodding and staring down into the water. She sighed. “I suspected as much.”

“You suspected?” You asked in surprise.

“I’m not daft, child.” She remarked and your fingers twisted together under the water. She bent into a squat, dipping the cloth into the water with you and using it to gently scrub your skin. “I saw the way he looked at you that day he came back. Why do you think I insisted you wear your best dress to the castle?”

“Surely you could not have foreseen this.” You said softly.

“Certainly not.” She agreed, “Though I did hope you could raise your fortune higher than we ever could.”

“Mother,” you sighed, using your fingers to trickle water across your arms, “to marry a prince…it’s a feat I’m afraid my station in life makes me incapable of.”

“Perhaps.” She agreed, scrubbing down your back. “But his devotion is clear, my child. If I am not mistaken, I believe he will fight for you.”

She moved to the front, scrubbing carefully and you watched her work, eyes blurry with tears. “I’m so sorry mother. I was so unfair to you and father.” She looked up at you, pausing her work as you cried, “You’ve given everything for me; given me a good life and I repaid you with so much sorrow. I will spend my whole life apologizing.”

Your mother tutted, lifting your chin with her finger and you looked at her blurry face. “The best apology I could get is your happiness. My dear, a mother always forgives and loves her child. Promise me you’ll fight for your future.”

“I promise.”

“Would you like stew?” Happy asked as your mother helped you to settle back in the chair by the fire.

“I am a mite hungry.” She smiled, accepting the bowl from his hands and a hunk of bread.

“What will happen with Snow now?” Sneezy asked, standing beside the hearth and prodding into the fire with a poker. “The queen is dead; Snow will have to ascend to the throne.”

You glanced sharply up at Jungkook who reached out to squeeze your shoulder. “All will be well, I’m sure. I will take care of things.”

“We need to return home as soon as I’m finished.” Your mother said from the chair by the fire. “Your father is expecting us. He wants to see you home.”

“Would you like my help escorting you?” The prince asked. “It’s a bit of a walk in her state.”

Your mother bowed her head as thanks. “I will accept the help as far as the fields. Any closer and my husband will see. I’ve told him that you were injured, Y/N, but he does not know the true nature of what happened. It will remain this way. As soon as we leave this cottage, we will never speak of it again. It’s for the best.”

You nodded quietly, quickly thinking of a plausible injury while she finished her food. When everything was ready, both Jungkook and your mother hiked your arms around their shoulders once more, helping you from the cottage and carefully into the forest.

The walk was quiet, despite the racing thoughts of your party, and you moved slowly so as not to weaken yourself further. When the three of you had made it to the fields, you paused and Jungkook stepped away from beside you.

“Thank you for your help, your highness.” Your mother said softly, bowing her head once more.

Jungkook himself bowed, to the surprise of your mother and you smiled. Ever the gentleman. “The pleasure was mine, ma’am. Y/N…” he paused, glancing at your mother before continuing. “I will speak with my father tonight.

~Jungkook’s P.O.V~

The king was in the study when the prince returned that evening. He sat in a comfortable chair by a roaring fire, book in one hand and glass of red wine in the other. He nodded as his son entered, closing his book and waving him over into the seat in front of him.

“I’m glad you’re here.” He said, setting the book and his glass of wine down on the small table beside him. He waited for Jungkook to seat himself. “I was wanting to speak to you about your betrothal.”

The prince nodded, hands ringing together in front of him. “I was hoping to speak with you as well.” He said, leaning forward onto his knees. “About Margit.”

“Yes, very sad affair this. The death of a monarch so suddenly; it’s quite a tragedy.” The king said; morose.

“The queen was trying to kill, Margit.” Jungkook said lowly.

The king looked over at him, gaze calculating. “There’s no need to be so moral with me, son. I know the details. We’re not here to talk about the evil queen, but of your betrothed. She’ll need to be married before she can ascend to the throne.”

“Yes,” Jungkook nodded, straightening slightly, “I wish to speak to you about that as well.”

“Good, then we are in agreement. The marriage should take place quickly. We will of course have to take time to prepare and send invitations. We have many people who will need to come from far so the earliest we can progress would be a fortnight.” The king blathered and Jungkook cleared his throat to gain his father’s attention.

“If I could father, I would like to say something.” He took a deep breath at his father’s wave of approval. “You know I respect you and that I love this kingdom. I love this kingdom so much in fact, that I’ve done a lot of thinking and I wish to break the betrothal with Margit.”

“You wish to what?” The king spluttered, back ramrod straight in his chair. “You wish to break the betrothal?!”

“Yes, father.” Jungkook continued. “Margit is a wonderful woman and she will make a very good queen…of her own kingdom. We have discussed it and neither of us wishes to marry the other. We are not in love with one another.”

“What does love have to do with anything?” The king roared, eyes bulging from their sockets. “This is a political alliance of great magnitude! This is unacceptable, you will do your duty to your kingdom and your king!”

Jungkook straightened completely, staring deep into the angry eyes of his father. He looked mad with fury. “Why is marrying someone for political gain my duty, father? Do you not think someone from our own kingdom would do well?”

“Is this about that confounded peasant girl?” The king howled, standing from his chair and pacing angrily behind it.

Jungkook stood himself, quietly and with great poise. His father’s greatest weakness was how strongly his emotion ruled him. If the prince could present a calm and collected face, perhaps his father could see reason. “Yes, it is.” He admitted. The king stopped suddenly, turning to look at his son. “I am in love with her.”

The king opened and closed his mouth a few times, surprise clearly etched into the wrinkles of his eyes. “Well,” he blustered, “well, what’s that to do with running a kingdom? Who is this girl anyway?”

“Father, your concern is that you want what is best for the kingdom. Please believe me when I say, that is my desire as well.” The king paused a moment, scrubbing a hand down his tired face. “I have the deepest respect for you and for this kingdom. I want what is best for the people that are in my care. It is why I chose to spend so much time out trying to see the village. I will admit that it has been difficult to make acquaintances with the people without giving myself away; so, I chose to spend time studying them from afar.”

His father resumed his seat, beckoning for his son to sit again. “The people are hardworking, father.” Jungkook continued, “They are good and they are kind and I wish to know their truest needs and desires. I believe the best way to do so would be to choose a bride from among them; someone who knows intimately what it is to be a villager in our kingdom.”

“And you wish for that girl to be your wife?” The king asked, fingers bouncing along the arm of his chair as his gaze switched from the flames to his son and back again.

“I do.” Jungkook admitted. “I would do anything to have her. Anything including…including giving up my claim to the throne.”

The king turned to him suddenly, surprise renewed and his whole body tensed. “Give up the throne?!”

The prince nodded, folding his hands together and staring straight at his father. “If that’s what it takes. It is not my desire to abdicate the throne, but if that’s what it takes to have the woman I love, I would do it.”

The king spluttered again noisily before shifting a few times in his chair, his body was filled with nervous energy he couldn’t seem to release. He stared straight into the fire and Jungkook could see the thoughts racing behind his eyes.

“And what of the princess? Margit still needs to marry to ascend to the throne.”

Jungkook smiled softly at his father. “I would not have suggested such a drastic change in plans if I didn’t have a solution.” He said softly.

“I suppose you mean for her to marry a peasant as well?” The king grumbled, twisting the ring on his middle finger in quick circles.

“Not quite a peasant. A huntsman.”

The king scoffed before groaning and dropping his head into his hands. Jungkook watched him, his heart squeezing with compassion. All his father had ever known was duty; his head was not accustomed to giving way to his heart.

He sighed, glancing up at his son, looking more tired than ever before. “You know I want you to be happy,” he said. “As a father, I want you to find happiness no matter what, but as your king, I need you to also be reasonable; to see what you’re asking of me. This is no easy thing…to marry a commoner.”

“I know,” Jungkook nodded, leaning forward on his elbows again, seeking his father’s eyes. “I know what I ask of you is difficult, but love and duty can be joined for once. I can be happy and still rule this kingdom well; better in fact, with one of its women as my backbone.”

The king smiled softly, shaking his head. “You have the determination of your mother, you know.”

“You say that as though it were a bad thing.” The prince smiled and the king shrugged.

“It depends on the day.” Silence descended on the room, only the cracks of the fire as company while the king thought. “You’ve still not told me the name of your bride.” He said finally.

Jungkook looked up at his father, dark eyes twinkling in the light of the fire. “I think you will quite like her.” He grinned.

“You’re betrothed?” Else choked, standing at the doorway of her home and you smiled. “To the prince?!”

You chuckled, leaning against the timber walls. “That’s correct. You’ve met him you know…the man from the market. Jungkook.”

“That was the prince?” Else squawked and the chickens in her yard fluttered away with angry screeches. “How in the world did you woo him? How did you ever get the chance? Oh my, poor Peter! He will be so disappointed.”

Your heart dropped at the mention of his name. You’d requested your father not tell him after the prince had come to inquire after your hand. Your father had nearly fallen off his seat when the prince had expressed his desire; thought he’d about lost his mind to be asking such an absurd question. He was a prince!

Of course, he’d given permission and then became so suddenly thrilled you thought he might just run into the streets telling anyone he saw. You wanted your friends to hear it from you, though. Especially Peter. Else was right, of course, Peter would be heartbroken. But you knew the news would be best coming from you and not from gossip. You were one of his best friends, after all.

“Yes,” you agreed with a sigh. “I plan to meet with him today to tell him. The announcement will go out to the village tomorrow so this is my only opportunity. I’m not excited for it.”

“No, I supposed not.” Else commiserated. “You are to be queen, though! Never could I have imagined.”

“It feels uncomfortable to think it.” You admitted, leaning your forehead against the wall. “I’m not deserving of the title at all.”

Else frowned, hands going to rest on her hips as she looked at you. “I disagree completely.” She huffed, “You will make an excellent queen. You are kind and thoughtful, you keep the best interest of others at heart. You know the needs of the people. There is no one better for it.”

You smiled, shaking your head at her. “So decided are we, hey?” You sighed, standing straight and dusting off your dress. “I suppose I should go now. I want to catch Peter before he makes way home.”

Else wished you luck, demanding further details at a later time and you left her at the door, traveling further up the dirt path. Peter lived a little further out of the village, on the farm his brother now owned. The day was beautiful and warm and made you feel calm as you moved down the lane.

You caught Peter just before he turned on the path to his home and he greeted you warmly. “Good morning, Y/N! What brings you here?”

You smiled gently, “I’ve come to see you, Peter.”

“Oh?” He said, smiling happily. “Well, this is a pleasant surprise. To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?”

You cleared your throat, pointing towards the fence and he followed you there, leaning up against it, pushing the bag at his hip aside. “I was wondering if I might have a word with you.” You said softly.

Peter seemed surprised. It was unlike you to be so formal, so timid and you could see the questions on his face. “Of course. What’s troubling you?”

You sighed, straightening your shoulders and looking up at him. “I wanted you to hear the news from me, as I think it will come as quite a shock.” You paused to gauge his reaction, but he only looked confused. You continued. “I am engaged to be married.”

“Oh,” he paused, looking stricken, “To Meinolf? He did say…well, he did say he thought he might like to do so.”

“No,” You said softly, eyeing his expression. It was worse than you’d thought. He seemed to be struggling a great deal to keep the heartbreak from his face. “I am engaged to be married to the prince.”

“The prince?” Peter repeated, numb. He stared down at the ground, hands twisting around the strap of his bag. “The one in the castle?”

You wanted to ask if he knew another prince, but understood his shock. “Yes.” You confirmed patiently.

“How-” His voice cracked and he cleared his throat, shaking his head before continuing. “How did such a thing come about?”

“Well,” you sighed, “it started rather simply. They came to our house that time, months ago as you know, after he’d returned home from school. We were then invited to the castle and after I’d taken faint, he came to seek after my health. He requested my help in getting to know the village and I thought it would be rather good to have a king who knows intimately the struggles of his people.”

You took a deep breath and Peter nodded for you to continue. “So, I agreed and we began to spend time together. I showed him around the village; had him meet some people I thought he might like to know about, and we became naturally closer.”

Peter closed his eyes, leaning against the fence and absorbing the information. Your heart thudded painfully at the pinched look on his face, but you waited for him to be ready. “And he fell in love with you?” He asked finally.

At your shy nod, he continued. “I am unsurprised by this. You are easy to fall in love with.” He said softly. You tried not to look pitying. You hated when people pitied you and you could imagine Peter would feel the same. “But do you love him? I remember you saying something about wanting to be in love.”

He looked earnest in his inquiry, like he really hoped for an honest answer so you felt at ease to give this to him. “I do.” You said, “I love him very much.”

He sighed deeply, licking at his bottom lip before nodding. “Then I am happy for you; you deserve happiness. I always knew you could have done much better than me.”

“Don’t say that.” You chastised, “Don’t lower yourself for my honor. You deserve to be with someone who loves you just as much as you love them. Do you think you could ever truly be with someone who didn’t reciprocate your feelings?”

He shrugged, staring up into the sky, robin’s egg blue and clear of all clouds. “It’s hard to say for sure, I’ve never tried it. You’re probably right, though…to love and be loved in return; it sounds wonderful. I’m happy for you, Y/N. I wish you a very happy marriage.”

“Thank you, Peter.” You smiled.

He nodded, staring down the dirt path towards his house. "I should go. Home, I mean. They’re expecting me.”

“Of course.” You murmured, watching as he nodded once more before turning and resuming his walk.

The view of the village from the top of the hill by the mill was particularly beautiful today. The summer was waning slowly, but leaving in its wake a shimmering warmth. You sat below the tree with the gnarl, legs tucked underneath your dress, resting your chin against your knees.

In a fortnight, everything would change. You would no longer be with your parents; your responsibilities would be completely new. You would be expected to learn politics, languages, public affairs…it would be a lie if you said the thought didn’t make you feel faint.

You’d do it all to have Jungkook, but you certainly hadn’t thought much passed just being with him before your dreams actually came true. Now you were expected to take on the responsibilities as your kingdoms future queen and you felt ill equipped to do so.

The village below you was teeming with life. You could hear the calls of people selling their goods; could see the butcher’s wife walking up through the streets with a basket full of sausages to tempt people into their shop. No one could imagine that tomorrow, one of their own would be elevated to a position so unimaginable. You worried that maybe some would resent you.

Perhaps some would imagine themselves worthy of royalty and wonder why they themselves had not been given a chance. How could you even begin to explain that you weren’t given a chance either? It just sort of…happened.

No, you supposed you would just have to endure whatever fall out may come. No monarch was unanimously liked...aside from perhaps Snow when she eventually took the throne. You smiled at the thought. Yes, you imagined she would be well liked.

“I thought I would find you here.”

You turned to find the prince moving slowly towards you, hands clasped behind his back. The breeze moved through his hair lethargically, the strands framing his face handsomely. You could hardly believe he was yours.

“You were looking for me, your highness?” You teased, fingers twisting in the fabric of your dress as he scrunched his face at you.

“Yes, my future queen.”

You huffed, flushing and staring out at the village below you. “I feel faint at the thought of it.” You admitted.

“It is a lot of responsibility.” He sighed, sitting down beside you and slipping his fingers into yours. “We’ll do it together, won’t we?’

“Yes, we will.” You smiled up at him.

“Did you speak with Else and Peter?” He asked delicately, tracing the veins against the back of your hand.

“I did.” You replied. “Else was very happy and Peter was disappointed; nothing I didn’t expect. They send their well wishes, though. Both of them.”

The morning was ebbing into early afternoon as you sat on that hill top together, fingers linked, the prince’s thumb stroking back and forth across the back of your hand as you enjoyed one another’s company.

“Do you remember the first time we saw each other again? At your house.” He asked suddenly. You turned your attention towards him as he smiled down at you. “Your family was waiting for my father and I outside your house and we hadn’t seen each other in years.”

“Of course I remember.” You smiled, “I was dreading it. I assumed you’d be that same awful boy from before, just older.”

Jungkook flushed pink, lips twisting into a lopsided smile. “I have the feeling you thought I still was after that meeting.”

You could remember his words even now; he’d treated you as though you were just a toy to be played with, something to amuse him. Even now, you couldn’t reconcile that man with the man before you today. “Yes, you didn’t make a great impression. I felt as though you just saw me as an accessory.”

His head hung low, bobbing up and down with his nod. “Yes, I apologize for that. At the time, I hadn’t realized how it had sounded. It was upon further reflection that I felt I had sounded unkind. I only meant to ensure that you would be at the castle with your father and Peter.”

“Why is that?” You asked him.

He smiled, staring down the hillside and avoiding your gaze. “You looked very pretty. I am a man after all, and I wanted to see you again. To show you that I’d changed. I didn’t do so well that first day.”

“No,” you said with a laugh. “No, you did not do well at all that day. Did you know that my mother put me in my best dress to go see you in the castle? I couldn’t understand why she would waste effort on making me look so presentable when I was going to go see the king. Why would he need for me to look nice?”

“The effort certainly was not wasted.” Jungkook said softly and you smiled, looking up into his soft brown eyes, warmed from affection. “You looked even more beautiful that day. I could hardly believe how much you had changed. It made me feel ashamed of myself.”

“Really?” You asked in surprise and he nodded.

“Because I had assumed that you would still be that same little girl that I had misjudged. You were amazing, though. Vivacious, beautiful, gentle, and you were so unwilling to be what others wanted you to be. That was very alluring.”

You laughed, your chest fit to bursting with equal amounts pride and embarrassment. “You make me sound so lovely.” You mumbled.

Jungkook smiled, hand going to rest against your cheek and you looked up at him, heartbeat accelerating. “You are lovely. So lovely. I love you deeply. You are far more than I deserve. I am only a man.”

“And I am only a woman.” You smiled, cheek nestling deeper in his hand as his thumb made waves across your flesh. “let’s be equals, shall we?”

His lips against yours was his gentle acceptance.

** About 2 months later **

The early morning was crisp. You stood at the balcony dressed in only your night shirt and a glass of warm tea clutched in your hands. Your attendant had recently left after waking you and you sipped sleepily at your drink.

You’d hardly slept last night; so much to occupy your mind. It had only been a month since your wedding, but after the party and the bedding ceremony were finished and you’d been able to get a night’s rest, you’d woken to lessons and training from sun up to sun down.

The king had been uncommonly kind; understanding of your limitations and patient with your learning. He said you were doing remarkably well all things considered. You felt he flattered you to the point of near dishonesty, but you appreciated his faith in you none the less.

It was intimidating to jump into a role you were so whole heartily unprepared for. You could never have truly imagined how much work it would take to become an acceptable ruler. Still, there was a part of you that was really enjoying your time learning.

In the village, you’d been unable to return to school once your womanhood had begun. Your mother insisted you stay home and learn to tend a home when that time came; it was the education you would need anyway.

At the time, it had felt unfair, but you’d understood. As far as you knew, you would grow up to tend a home and bear children. Language and politics were of no use to you. Now, of course, everything had changed and you felt very ill equipped.

It was still early enough in the morning that most of the villagers had not woken. You could see some smoke plumes in chimneys from your spot on the balcony, but otherwise, all was silent. A knock at your bedroom door roused your attention and you called out softly for their entry.

You knew it was Jungkook anyway.

“Good morning.” He said gently, closing the door behind him and making his way over towards your balcony. “I see the master of the wardrobe has not come yet.”

“I asked for a little extra time to revive myself.” You hummed.

Jungkook moved behind you, wrapping his arms around your waist and you could see that he himself was already dressed in his outer clothing.

“You look beautiful.” He murmured, leaving a kiss against your cheek and you huffed pleasantly.

“I just woke up. I look like the undead.”

“Impossible!” Jungkook insisted. You could feel his interest against your back, the warmth of his body drawing you closer and you smiled as his nose drew a delicate line across your jaw.

“We don’t have time.” You mumbled as his lips made their way across your neck and collarbone.

“I only need a few minutes.” He murmured, hands wandering temptingly upwards.

“That’s not as reassuring as it sounds.” You teased and you could hear his muffled laugh in the dip of your neck. “I still need to dress, we need to eat, and then we must travel a morning’s journey. We don’t have as much time as you think.”

You turned in his arms, placing your cup down on the table by the door and wrapping your arms around his neck. He looked unfathomably handsome this morning. Long dark hair pushed away from his face and wearing an ornate, deep blue tunic embossed in gold.

“My prince charming.” You sighed, looking up at him and he smiled. “I still can’t believe you’re mine.”

“I’m very persuasive.” The prince hummed, rocking your bodies lightly from side to side, “My father didn’t stand a chance. I knew you would be here with me someday.”

You laughed, running your hand up his chest. “Your confidence is almost alarming at times.”

“Alarmingly attractive.” Jungkook said as you stepped away from him and back into the bedroom. You hummed your agreement and he smiled. “Shall I call the master of the wardrobe?”

“Yes please,” you said, surveying the bags of scented perfume on your bureau. After Jungkook returned from calling the help, he moved towards where you stood, two bags in your hands. “Which should I choose for today?”

You held each bag out for his inspection and he smelled them carefully before picking one. “You know this is my favorite.” He said, fiddling with the strings of a bag you’d left on the top of the bureau.

“Yes, but I also know how you behave when I wear it and we can’t be doing that at a wedding of all places.” You teased.

“True.” He grinned wolfishly.

A knock at the door and the master of the wardrobe was stepping in at your call. Jungkook left you to get dressed with a promise to wait for you down at breakfast.

Snow looked radiant in her wedding dress. Deep red with gold accenting; her lovely dark hair held high in a golden snood and a crown perched delicately on top of her head. She was more beautiful than you’d ever seen her; beaming happily at Dietrich as he spoke with a wedding guest.

The king led both Jungkook and yourself towards the couple and Snow smiled even brighter, embracing you tightly. “Your majesty!” She beamed, nodding her head at the king who tucked his own in greeting. “You’ve all come. I am so happy to have you join us today.”

“It is the greatest pleasure.” The king replied grandly. “It is a wonderful day for a wedding, is it not? The weather is pleasant and the food is plenty.”

The hall of Snow’s castle was beautiful. The kingdom of Vildüngan was nestled in the rolling green hills of Weidenbaum auf Nidd. The décor of the dining hall reflected the nature surrounding the castle, vines draped across windows and corridors with soft pink and blue forget-me-nots and edelweiss tucked into the foliage.

The high table and three long tables in the center had been adorned with dining ware, ready for their occupants. You could smell the tantalizing scents of the kitchen wafting to where you all stood, sweet and savory already pricking your tastebuds into excitement.

“Will you be our honored guests at the high table?” Snow asked, her arm linked through that of her new husband’s.

“How could we refuse such a generous offer?” Jungkook smiled, motioning for them to move forward and the three in your party followed after, greeting foreign dignitaries and foreign royalty on your way.

The high table afforded you a spectacular view of the dining hall and its occupants. As everyone seated themselves, the servants began to fill the tables with food; so much you felt you could almost hear the tables groaning under the weight.

You filled your plate with the food closest to you as you engaged in conversation with the queen from Duchy of Savoy. She spoke of her children, all too young to attend, and you smiled and laughed with her stories.

She made you feel an anxious sort of excitement for your future with Jungkook. He was talking animatedly with the King, cutting into a shank of lamb and you tried desperately to concentrate on your own present conversation, despite how distracting he was.

The evening waxed late when a trumpet was sounded and Snow smiled, standing tall before all in the room. “I want to thank you once again, on behalf of myself and my new husband. How gracious you are for coming to be with us this evening and to celebrate our union. There was a time not so long ago when things could have been very different than they are now.”

She glanced down at both Jungkook and you, a small smile curving her lips up. “We have much to be grateful for tonight. Your company, for starters.” The room cheered loudly, clanking cups against the wooden tables loudly and Snow laughed. “Yes, and of course my health. I am indebted to my dear husband on that account. I am grateful for the bravery of friends that changed the tides of fate. For the flexibility of my people and the sovereigns of this land who felt that with great change, a better world could be created.”

The room was quiet, but happily so. The atmosphere was warm and pleasant, the buzz of contentedness you got from a full belly and a warm fire. You felt the alluring tendrils of sleep tug behind your eyes, but the party was still young and you hadn’t had a dance yet.

“I hope, that going forward from this evening on we will form a great alliance one with another; that we will remember this evening and these warm feelings. I beg we rise together, that we align together to look after our brothers of distant countries and remember we are family. I know each of you by name and you have great worth to me. Let us celebrate as long as the moon will allow and remain tied as long as our kingdoms shall endure. To our futures together!”

“Here here!” Called the room, lifting cups and drinking deeply. Jungkook finished his own glass, turning to face you and reaching for your hand under the table.

“May we live long and reign with all the dignity and love we have in us.” He whispered.

You smiled, squeezing his hand in yours, warm and whole. You felt secure, you felt loved, and you finally felt like you’d found your rightful place. With him.

“Here here.”