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Chapter Text

The rain poured down on him in buckets; his clothes were completely soaked through and his hair was matted down to his face. He could feel the chill of the rain and the wind slicing through his flesh and taking up residence within his body. The cold settled in his joints, causing a dull ache that all he could do was ignore.

Third Prince Han Jisung of Levanter was running with no real destination in mind - just away. He was suffocating. His chest was heavy and there was a sharp pain, he couldn’t breathe as the anxiety wove its way around his ribs like invasive kudzu and clawed up his throat. He couldn’t bare being in this fucking palace any longer.

“Your Highness,” he heard being shouted across the courtyard, Chan, one of his Royal Guards, was running down the stairs, trying desperately to keep up with him.

“Prince Jisung! Stop!” The brunet tried again, but Jisung just kept running. He couldn’t handle it anymore, the smiling and the waving, the mask he was forced to wear during all of these stupid galas. It was beginning to crack. He was beginning to crack.

Jisung lived a picture-perfect life. He was born a third prince, lived in a lavish castle, was spoiled beyond belief; or at least one would think that. No one saw the way the poor boy was treated when the palace doors closed after the fancy parties.

“Ji! Where the fuck are you going?” Changbin, Jisung’s other Royal Guard yelled, chasing the prince alongside Chan.

Jisung made a quick turn, right outside the courtyard - a shortcut not many people knew of that led to the garden. He ran through a small tunnel-like hallway, huffing and puffing all the way until the small passageway opened up into a beautiful garden. He closed the gate and stumbled his way over to a small bench that sat next to a memorial statue.

His body - fatigued by a panic attack that still hung heavy over him and running what felt like a marathon in his haste to escape the room full of people in The Ballroom, and his two guards turned best friends - collapsed very un-prince like onto the small bench. His body lay half hanging off, face up into the rain, as he caught his breath. A sob wracked his small frame as the emotions finally kicked in. The adrenaline faded out and was replaced by a hazy ache that blanketed over his body.

“I can’t do this anymore, Mother.” He cried out, allowing his head to fall back off the bench. He stared at the memorial upside down as if it could speak back to him. He yearned for the advice his mother could give him, but she wasn’t here. He was used to this, speaking out to a chunk of stone that immortalized his mother’s presence within the garden, this was the only way he had ever known her.

He sighed out to the sky, hoping the chill of the wind and rain would calm him down. His anxiety had built up, up, up within him, he could feel it like a physical thing - his organs had been shoved over to make room for the ever-growing ball inside him. His sternum was cracking behind the pressure, shattering his ribs, popping his lungs like balloons. He just wanted to catch his breath, but even that felt like it would forever be impossible.

“Jisung, I swear to the gods if you don’t get your ass out here!”

Changbin’s loud voice startled him from his self-pity party. He shot up from the bench and crawled around to settle himself behind a rosebush.

“Changbin, I know Ji doesn’t care about whether we use his title or whatever, but you can’t speak to him like that, especially when we don’t know who’s around to hear it,” Chan sighed, their voices fading out as they wandered the garden looking for the boy.

“You’re pretty good at hiding, do you do this often?”

Jisung jumped out of his skin, he whipped his head around to the voice with wide eyes.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.” The other man sat down next to him, undoubtedly soaking his robes as well.

He knew who this was, there was no way not to with his high cheekbones and strong straight nose. The crown that sat upon his head would’ve been the tell-tale even if he wasn’t familiar with the face of the First Prince of Miroh.

“Y-Your Highness,” Jisung stuttered out, bowing as much as he could from his huddled position.

“Ah, none of that Prince Jisung, we grew up together, you know. Call me Minho, or even Min, like you used to.”

Jisung looked down as red splotched over his cheeks, the blush blossoming like the flowers that surrounded the two of them.

“What’re you doin’ out here?” he asked, still struggling to make eye contact with the handsome prince sitting in front of him in a puddle.

“I needed air. What about you?” Minho smiled gently at him, his eyes warm despite the cool air that wrapped around them, and his cute bunny teeth showing behind his pink, pouty lips.

“I hate these things,” the younger of the two trailed off. He fiddled with his fingers that rested in his lap. If someone from his family saw them right now, he’d be in so much trouble. Jisung wasn’t allowed to talk to the members of other royal families. He actually hadn’t spoken to Minho in about five years, or his brother Felix who is only a day younger than he is and used to be his best friend.

“Why won’t you look at me, Ji?” Minho asked. He reached his hand forward and caressed Jisung’s jaw, guiding his face so he was looking at him. Minho frowned slightly when Jisung flinched at his touch and his chocolate brown eyes stared into what felt like Jisung’s soul. He was sure that Minho could see every emotion Jisung had ever felt through the intensity of his stare.

“’M not s’posed to,” he mumbled. Minho’s brows pinched and a deeper frown pulled down the corners of his pretty lips. His thumb stroked over the redness that remained on the boy’s warm cheeks.

“What do you mean? You’re not allowed? I don’t understand.”

Footsteps rapidly approached the two princes and Jisung tore his face from the older boy’s grasp, scooting over to put more space between the two of them. If someone saw them together, Jisung would be doomed, severely punished, but the threat of that punishment didn’t stop the feeling of longing that took over the younger prince at the loss of his old friend’s touch. His cheek was now colder than ever after having the warmth of Minho’s palm pressed gently against it.

“Jisung, I swear to- Oh. Your Highness,” Chan cut himself off and bowed quickly. Changbin stuttered to a stop next to Chan, his eyes widened comically and he threw himself into a bow as well.

“Chan. Changbin. It’s a pleasure to see you both again. It’s been a while.” Minho said as he huffed out a soft laugh at the guards’ antics.

“Jisu- Your Highness, your robes are all wet. What are you even doing out here right now?”

Jisung looked down as if noticing for the first time that he was soaking wet; he felt stupid, but, well, he always felt stupid. Being isolated most of his life, he had nothing to occupy his time with other than studying and reading. He was intelligent beyond belief, but he was still young. He spent his formative years only being around staff, tutors, and guards, so he was socially inept - he couldn’t interact with people so he found himself stuttering and stumbling over words, running away from stressful situations, and isolating himself even further.

To his family he only took up space, he was a burden; a wasted room, a wasted crown, wasted clothes, wasted money. To his family, he was a waste of oxygen. Being told your entire life that you’re in the way, that you’ll never amount to anything does absolutely terrible things to someone. He was outcasted by the people meant to love him the most, isolated from his only two friends; left to metaphorically rot away in his room until it became less a metaphor, and more reality.

His father, The King, saw him as the reason his beloved wife, The Second Queen, passed. The First Queen saw him as a waste of time and space, her two children deserved the best of the best - Jisung was just there, sapping up the resources that were meant for her beloved ‘babies’. His two older half-siblings saw him as a punching bag; they could say whatever they wanted to him and he couldn’t retaliate. Even if someone did believe him when he cried out for help from the adults around them, no one would even care - he was convinced that The First Queen encouraged their behavior even.

Third Prince Jisung would never have the throne, would always be just that, “Prince Jisung”, and he was fine with that - he never wanted the throne anyway. To be honest, he wished every day that he could’ve been born into a normal family.

Everyone always wishes to be a prince or a princess, but the reality is, beyond the lavish and heavily guarded walls of the palace, behind the facade of the titles and the balls and the galas, the people were almost always miserable.

“‘M sorry Channie,” Jisung said quietly, tears mixing with the rain that slid down his cheeks.

“C’mere you silly prince,” Chan said gently as he hoisted Jisung’s small frame up in his arms. He squeezed the boy in a bone-crushing hug, knowing Jisung had a nasty habit of getting stuck in his own head.

“Is he going to be okay?” Minho mumbled, he looked over to Changbin who had his arms crossed intimidatingly, but a fond smile made its way onto his face.

“Yeah, he’ll be fine. He doesn’t do well at these things. I’m honestly surprised they even let him attend,” Changbin muttered. He glanced over at Minho but averted his eyes when he made eye contact with his elder.

“What do you- Changbin, we’ve known each other for years, you can look at me,” Minho sighed, exasperated. “What do you mean? ‘Surprised they let him attend’?” he repeated.

“He’s usually stuck up in his room during things like this, they don’t want him to interact much with the guests. My opinion is that he was only invited down because your family knows him personally. You’d have found it weird to come here and not see him, no?” Changbin finally looked up into Minho’s eyes. The guard had a fierce protectiveness radiating from his eyes, not that Minho blamed him.

“Why don’t they let him attend?”

“That’s- uhm, well, I’m not-”

“Changbin,” Chan sighed out. He had a warning look in his eyes, like he already shared too much. Minho’s brows furrowed.

“We should get him upstairs,” Chan said, his eyebrow raised and eyes flicking down to Jisung who was still cradled in his strong arms, asleep or at least close to it. He had wrapped his arms tightly around Chan, face buried in his neck and legs secured around his waist.

“Yes, of course,” Minho said, as he stood from the puddle he had been sitting in. “Just one more question, though.”

“What’s that, Your Highness?” Changbin said, his eyes trained on his friend who hoisted the young boy up higher to prepare him for the trek back into the palace.

“Is that the reason we lost correspondence?”

“What do you mean?” Changbin’s face morphed into one of confusion and for once, Minho was grateful he wasn’t the only one who had no idea what was going on.

“We used to see each other very often. Jisung and Felix were very close, so we traveled often so they could play together. As we grew up, the outings lessened, but one day, a few days before their eighteenth birthdays I spent the day with Jisung as Felix was busy with preparations for his party. I told him that day that I’d like to see him again, and he agreed; but every text I sent him after Felix’s party went unanswered. I even tried writing him letters, but nothing. He wouldn't even reply to Felix!”

“He wanted to reply-”

“Changbin!” Chan’s voice held a dangerous edge to it. Minho could see Changbin hesitate like he wanted to tell Minho more, but his obedience to the older guard, his superior, overpowered.

“I’m truly sorry, Your Highness.”

“I told him I wanted to marry him! Don’t you think I deserve something?”

“I’m sorry, Your Highness,” Changbin repeated. He owed nothing to The Royal Lee Family, his loyalty lied with The Royal Han Family, but he wanted so desperately to give closure to Prince Minho, and Minho could see that in his eyes.

“Fine, yes, go.” Minho waved them off, plopping himself down on the bench that Jisung once occupied.

“You should head back inside, Your Highness,” Chan said.

“Don’t worry about me, Christopher.”

Chapter Text

The Royal Lee Family of Miroh stayed for the next few days in the Han Palace. This led to Minho pacing the halls in wait, he hoped so desperately to run into Jisung again.

“Brother,” Felix’s voice rang out across the long hallway Minho had found himself in, “What’s the matter?”

“Jisung,” Minho said. When he gave no further explanation, Felix stepped forward and grabbed Minho’s shirt, pulling him to a stop in front of him.

“What’s wrong with Jisung?” Felix asked, his voice lilting up with worry.

“Something’s not right here. Remember when I told you I wished to marry him?”

Felix snorted, “Which time?”

“This isn’t the time for your jokes, Felix. I’m being serious.” Minho sighed and ran a hand through his hair.

Felix chuckled lightly and reached up to tame the locks that Minho had disheveled, “My apologies. Yes, I remember when you told me you wanted to marry him. Go on.”

“I brought up the idea to Mother and Father and they said it was a splendid idea. I told him about it, mostly in passing because I didn’t want to scare him off, but it seemed as though that was exactly what happened-”

“Yes, I’m aware of this story-” Felix cut him off but was then cut off himself by his rambling older brother.

“But I don’t think it was Jisung’s doings! You know just as much as I do that even if he didn’t wish to marry, he wouldn’t have cut off his ties with our family like that! He’s much too kind!”

“Brother, I don’t think we should be discussing this in such a… public area,” Felix trailed off, glancing awkwardly around the hallway.

“You know, he’s not even allowed to attend royal events? He’s shoved off to the side, forced to hide away in his room as if he doesn’t even exist!”

“Minho…”

“I think his family were the ones to cut things off between the two of us! Before anything could even happen!”

“Minho, please, can we continue this in our room?”

“Ah, Prince Minho, Prince Felix, I’ve been searching everywhere for the two of you.”

Minho and Felix shared a look before turning to the Han Family Royal Advisor, they both nodded their heads politely.

“Would you mind coming with me? Your family has been asked to attend a meeting with the Han Family in The Great Hall.”

Minho furrowed his eyebrows for a moment and then nodded. The two princes followed the advisor down the winding halls, all the way sharing suspicious side glances that only the other could decipher.

When the three of them made it to The Great Hall, the table was set with an extravagant lunch, The Lee Family sat on one side of the table, while The Han Family sat on the other. Minho did a sweep over all the faces, looking for a specific one amongst the small crowd, but was disappointed to see the youngest Han not in attendance.

After they took a seat, Minho was expecting to join in the small talk that rang around the table while they waited for Jisung, but was surprised when The First Queen clapped her hands, “Excellent! Thank you for joining us Prince Minho, Prince Yongbok. Let’s get started.”

Felix narrowed his eyes at The First Queen and scoffed. “It’s Felix,” he mumbled.

Minho cleared his throat, “Will Jisung be joining us?”

Seemingly in synchronization, the entirety of The Han Family rolled their eyes. The King finally spoke up, “Jisung isn’t needed for this meeting and he doesn’t enjoy being a part of the politics so he stayed behind in his room. He’s an awkward boy, you all understand, yes?”

Minho’s brows furrowed and he looked over at Felix with a look that hopefully said ‘See what I mean?’

Minho’s mother, The Queen of Miroh, chuckled “He’s such a sweet boy,” she said as she allowed a small, fond smile to grace her aged, yet still very beautiful face.

“Yes, the sweetest,” The First Queen of Levanter said, not able to hide the annoyance that lingered behind her words. “Anyway, we were hoping to discuss some more… personal matters.”

“Ah, yes, what did you have in mind?” The King of Miroh asked.

The King of Levanter cleared his throat, “As you know, our daughter Jihye is 25 now,” he trailed off.

The Lee family nodded along to be polite, but all four of them were quite confused as to the direction the conversation was headed.

“We were hoping to discuss the potential for a union ship between Prince Minho and our lovely Jihye, if that would be something your family would be interested in.”

Minho’s eyes went wide and he looked between his parents in desperation. His mother looked back at him with sympathy, she’d always known how Minho felt about Jisung before he even brought it up the first time. Minho looked over to Jisung’s older sister. She smiled at him and batted her eyelashes. Minho felt sick to his stomach.

“Well, actually, Minho has mentioned a union ship with your family before-” Minho’s mother started but was cut off by The First Queen.

“Oh, how splendid! We can start planning right now! We have several events that the two of them will need to attend pre-engagement and-”

“I’m sorry, Your Highness, but I think there’s been a mixup. I don’t want to marry Jihye.”

“Oh? I don’t think I know what you mean, then. Jihye is our only daughter.” The Queen said. She folded her hands over the table and raised her brow in annoyance.

Minho sighed out in exasperation, “Mother…”

“I think what our Minho means is, well,” his mother trailed off, not knowing exactly how to get the words out.

“What my wife is trying to say is, that Minho and Jisung were very close when they were young. Minho would like to ask for Jisung’s hand.”

The table went silent for a moment before Jihye stood up abruptly.

“Jisung?! Are you kidding me? You have to be joking!”

“Jihye, please, calm down.” The First Queen said, trying to calm her daughter.

“No! That little shit always ruins everything!”

The King stood and slammed his hand down against the table, “Jihye! Sit down! Now!”

“I think maybe it would be best if we continued this conversation between just the four of us,” The King of Miroh said.

The King of Levanter sighed, “Yes, of course.” The older man took his glasses off and pinched the bridge of his nose, “Children, you’re dismissed.”

The oldest Han sibling, Jiho, was the first to stand. He bowed to everyone politely and took his leave. Minho and Felix were the next to stand, they bid their farewells and made for the door after they shared a look with each other and then their parents. Jihye was the more stubborn one - she stood firm where she was, with clenched fists.

“Jihye, go.” Her father said.

“No! This is ridiculous!” She turned to the King and Queen of Miroh, “You’re not actually going to let your son court that idiot, right?”

Minho turned around from where he was exiting The Great Hall when he heard this. He couldn’t believe what was being said about Jisung from his own family. Before he could walk back in and confront the spoiled brat that was The Princess of Levanter, however, Felix grabbed his wrist.

“Min, let's go, okay? Arguing with them will lead to nothing.”

Minho sighed, he knew his little brother was right, and they weren’t raised that way. That didn’t stop him from leaning against the wall to eavesdrop, though.

“I’m terribly sorry, but I don’t know what you mean. Why shouldn’t my son be able to court whoever he wants?” Minho’s mother asked. “Jisung is a lovely boy, we’d love to have him join our family.”

“It’s just, Jisung is a moron! He doesn’t attend any court meetings or galas, he doesn’t do any of his duties, he just sits in his room all day! And anyway, Minho’s your oldest son! What about your bloodline?”

“Excuse me, Princess,” The King of Miroh stood, unable to listen to the spoiled girl ramble any longer, “This is a concern of our family, our kingdom, and our bloodline only. Minho is our son, not a chess pawn. He’s an exceptional man and a strong and intelligent leader. We only want him to be happy, gay or otherwise. He won’t marry a woman, and that is not a problem to either of us or our kingdom. If he wants to marry Jisung, that’s his decision and we support that.”

Felix pulled Minho’s wrist once again, “C’mon, let's go find Ji, okay?”

Minho nodded dumbly, “Yeah, uh, yeah okay.”

“You were right, by the way. I’m sorry I doubted you for even a moment.”

“No, it’s okay. I really, really, wish I hadn’t been.” Minho sighed.

The two princes made their way through the palace; they used to be so familiar with these halls and they were relying on retired muscle memory to navigate their way to where they thought they might be able to find Jisung.

They had just rounded the corner that led to the west wing of the palace, where Felix claimed Jisung’s bedroom resided when they heard a crash sound. They looked at each other for a moment before they both broke out into a sprint towards the sound.

“I thought Mother told you to stop talking to them!” They heard being yelled in a voice that sounded suspiciously like Jiho’s.

“I did! Jiho, I did! Until the other night, I hadn’t spoken the either of them in years,” came Jisung’s voice, it was quiet but panicked nonetheless.

“Oh, so you’re a liar now? Prince Minho is claiming he still wants to marry you after five fucking years of no contact? Likely story.”

“Jiho, please! I promise! I didn’t even mean to talk to them at the gala! Minho found me outside!”

“Stop acting like you’re so innocent all the time, brat. You must’ve done something to mess this up for Jihye. You knew she liked Minho so you’re trying to ruin this for her. It must be a pity thing. He only wants you because he feels bad that you’ll never be anything. He probably thinks he can fix you, with some pathetic savior complex. Who could ever really want you?”

“Me,” Minho said, stepping into the room.

Both heads turned towards him as he stalked further through the doorway. He stopped in front of Jisung and smiled tenderly at him. He reached a hand out to cup a chubby cheek.

“I’ve always known he was the one for me. The only one. I didn’t care that we didn’t speak for years, it didn’t matter.” Minho was talking to Jiho but was looking directly into Jisung’s eyes. Jisung had an undecipherable look on his face, he wanted so badly to fall into Minho’s arms, but he was terrified of what Jiho would do.

Hidden deep down, underneath all of the fear that resided within him, however, was an insecurity built upon all of the nasty things his family had thrown at him. He didn’t find himself deserving of Minho’s love. He thought he was ignorant, immature, and unworthy, the same way his family did. But the way Minho looked at him now had him hoping desperately that maybe, maybe, he could be worth it.

“Jisung, I asked you on your eighteenth birthday if you would marry me, and I’m asking you again, right here, right now. Please, would you do me the honor of marrying me?”

“Y- uhm, I, I don’t-” Jisung squeezed his eyes shut and let out a stuttered breath, “I don’t know. I don’t think I can.”

Minho’s heart fell. He could feel it drop down into the pits of his stomach, maybe even past that, further down. His heart laid down at his feet, ripped from his chest and spewing blood upon the floorboards of Jisung’s bedroom.

“I don’t think I’m allowed to.”

“Ji, please, don’t listen to your family for once, okay?” Felix said from the doorway, “They can’t rule over your life forever.”

When he heard a sniffle, Minho opened his eyes, he wasn’t even sure when he had closed them, and looked at Jisung once again. The younger boy’s face was blotchy and his eyes were beginning to turn red. There were tears streaming down his full cheeks and Minho wanted nothing more than to wipe his face clean, to make him smile. He wanted to see the sunshiney boy light up once again, in a way he hadn’t seen in years.

“I, yes, uhm, yes I’d love to marry you Minho,” Jisung shyly bit his lip and looked into Minho’s eyes.

Minho was frozen, shocked by the words he so desperately yearned to hear. He had dreamed for so long of hearing that confirmation that he didn’t even know where to go from there.

“Min,” Felix said and nudged him into action.

Minho blinked several times in quick succession and a bright smile broke out on his face. He pulled Jisung into him tightly and cradled his face, his thumbs worked to wipe away the tears.

“Really? You’ll marry me?”

“Like you said, there was never anyone else. It’s always been you.” Jisung said quietly.

The two stood in a tight embrace with their foreheads pressed together.

“This is outrageous,” Jiho scoffed.

“Oh, go fuck yourself Jiho,” Felix said smiling at his brother and best friend.

Chapter Text

The Royal Lee Family of Miroh left the next day, and Jisung had promised to keep in contact for real this time. Jisung giggled as Felix made him pinky promise to text him every day, and his face blossomed a deep shade of red when Minho bowed deeply at the waist and kissed his knuckles gently. He had never felt so ecstatic before. His bones hummed with joy and his heart felt light enough to float away. He stood with a heart-shaped grin as he waved to their car as they set off back to their kingdom and breathed out a dreamy sigh. His world had never seemed so sparkly before.

Maybe things would finally get better.

“Jisung. Come with me.”

The small boy turned around and made eye contact with the tall and intimidating woman. The look of disgust she was giving him made him avert his eyes, staring instead at the stoned driveway.

“Yes, Ma’am.”

He kept his head down as he walked past his father and his older brother, Jihye had been asked to stay back as they bid the other family farewell and followed the woman up the cobblestone path, up the marble stairs, and into the castle.

The older woman walked swiftly, and Jisung struggled to keep up as they made their way into her Sitting Room.

“Have a seat,” she said harshly.

Jisung scrambled to sit down and folded his hands politely in his lap.

“We need to have a little,” she paused for a moment, “chat.”

“Yes, Ma’am.”

All the previous weightlessness that had taken over Jisung’s world had been ripped away from him. It was as if someone had flipped the switch that turned gravity on and off. He felt the stresses of being in this family fall back onto his shoulders again tenfold. He felt bubbles of panic rise in his throat like fizzy soda.

“You mustn’t speak to The Lee Family.”

Jisung could’ve thrown up all over the ugly rug that lay across the floor at his feet. The fizzy soda feeling increased in his guts, someone had shaken the can, the pressure building up, up, up.

“I’m sorry, what do you mean? Prince Minho is courting me?”

“Yes, well, not officially. And we won’t allow it to become official, will we?”

The can had been cracked open, and Jisung couldn’t take the pressure anymore, his emotions spewed out of him with a force they never had before when speaking to his family. The young boy was usually shy and timid and stayed out of the way to avoid catastrophe - even though it somehow always found him anyway. It didn’t matter how far back in the shadows he stayed, these monsters that were supposed to be his family would always find him and yank him out to take their stress out on him.

“And why not?!”

“Don’t speak that way to me, boy!” The First Queen shouted.

“Why shouldn’t I?! You took this away from me once, you won’t take it away from me again!”

A resounding slap forced the words to die in Jisung’s throat.

“I don’t want you to marry Minho, so you won’t. Are we clear?”

Jisung whimpered in response and cradled his burning cheek in his hand.

“Are. We. Clear?” The woman growled. There was a fire in her eyes that had Jisung cowering away once again. All previous fight he had was ripped from his chest and thrown to the floor. He was once again, nothing but a scared dog hunkering his head and whining.

“Yes, Ma’am. We’re clear.”

“Excellent,” she trilled, “Give me your phone.”

“W-what?” He asked, disbelief coating his words.

“I said give me your phone, you insolent boy.” The woman held her hand out, waiting.

“Why?”

“Why does it matter? Give it to me.”

Jisung hung his head in defeat and pulled his phone from his pocket. He stared at it for a moment and then placed it gently in her hand.

“Good. Now out.”

Jisung shuffled out into the corridor and began slowly walking back to his room. He had never felt so broken down. He had everything he had ever wanted, not even fifteen minutes ago, and now he was back to square one. In a place in which he should have anything and everything he desired, he was left with nothing.

He found himself climbing into his bed and wishing that he had never met Minho all those years ago. He wished that he hadn’t been found hiding behind a bush four nights ago. That Minho hadn’t come to his rescue yesterday and told him that he was the only one for him. After knowing the older prince, loving him, and being loved by him, he felt even lonelier. It was a cruel joke being played by the universe, the gods would present Jisung with everything he has ever desired on a golden platter in the shape of one handsome, strong prince, and then snatch it away moments before he could reach out a shaky hand to touch it.

“Ji, are you in there?” He heard Chan ask from the other side of his door.

He burrowed himself further into his blankets and closed his eyes, mentally willing his guard-turned-best friend to just leave him alone.

“Yeah, Jiji! We wanna talk about your hot new boyfriend!” Changbin cackled.

At the mention of Minho, as indirect as it was, Jisung whimpered. The sound must have set the two on high alert, their giggling immediately stopped and he heard the door being unlocked. Curse his guards having a key to his room. Chan stepped in first, surveying the room with intense and calculating eyes, and Changbin followed a step behind.

“Oh, baby, what’s wrong?” Chan had said when he finally caught sight of Jisung curled into himself on the bed.

The two of them climbed into the bed on either side of him and cuddled up to him, he loved the two of them with his whole heart. These two guards would always be more of his family than his actual family could have ever been.

“What happened, baby?”

“Yeah, we thought you would be ecstatic.”

Jisung just whimpered again and hid his face in Chan’s neck.

“Hey, Ji, love, can you look at us? Please? We can’t help if you don't tell us what’s wrong.”

Chan’s voice was soft as he ran his fingers through Jisung’s hair.

Changbin rubbed his back soothingly and Jisung finally pulled his face from Chan’s neck. He looked over to the other guard with his cheek still pressed firmly into Chan’s chest and sighed.

“Baby, who hit you?” Jisung tensed, Changbin’s gaze zeroed in on his red cheek, unwavering.

“What?” Chan shot up and gently maneuvered Jisung’s face so he could look at him.

Jisung whimpered again but otherwise stayed silent. He slumped forward into Changbin’s chest this time and the older wrapped his arms around him.

The look the two guards shared over the young boy's shoulder was that of concern and fierce protectiveness.

“Was it Jiho? Jihye?”

Jisung shook his head against Changbin’s firm chest, “D’nt wanna talk ‘bout it.”

Chan sighed, “My sweet, silly little prince, it’s our job to protect you. How’re we supposed to do that if you won’t let us?”

Jisung felt the rise of panic simmering at the surface once again. The anger bubbled, right under his sticky, clammy skin, and he exploded for the second time that day.

“You can’t protect me from her! No one can! Not even Minho! I’ll never get out of here! All I’ve ever done is what is asked of me, and that just isn’t enough for them! Why am I doomed to be miserable?!”

“Woah, woah, baby. What are you talking about, hmm?” Chan asked as he brushed Jisung's bangs from his forehead.

“The Queen. She said she didn’t want me to marry Minho, so I won’t be allowed to. She took my phone so I can’t even talk to him. Again!”

“Hey, she’s not the queen. Your mother was The Queen. That woman has no power over you,” Changbin said. His voice was harsh and mean when referring to the woman who continued to act as though she had any pull in The Court. “She can’t really do anything.”

“Maybe not, but Father will still listen to her. And he doesn’t want me to either, otherwise, he wouldn’t have let this happen.”

“Okay, listen. I have Hyunjin’s number, he’s the son of one of The Court Members in Miroh. I’m sure we can get into contact with Minho through him and figure this out together.”

“No!” Jisung cried, “You’ll get punished!”

Jisung’s heart ached at the thought of one of his guards being punished on his behalf, he couldn’t stomach the idea. He couldn’t protect them the way they do him, but this he could control. He wouldn’t let this get traced back to them. What if his father took them away from him? What if he fired them? What if he hurt one of them?

*Trigger Warning: Panic Attack*

“Hey, Ji, baby boy, breathe. Okay? Can you do that?” Chan’s voice was soft as it pushed its way through the cotton in his ears. When had he stopped breathing? When had he started crying?

“Breathe with me. In,” Chan took a deep and exaggerated breath in, “Out.”

Jisung tried to follow his breathing, but he was still fighting the cotton in his ears, in his throat. He was nothing but a cotton-filled rag doll in the clutches of his anxiety. He bent to its every whim, crushed by the weight of it. He was flimsy and stuffed with lies. He was a doll for his family to toy with.

“Jiji, baby, please. In,” Chan tried breathing again, “Out.”

“Ji, love, can you feel this? Can you feel my hand?” Changbin asked softly as he touched Jisung’s hand.

Jisung nodded slightly and let out a stuttered breath.

“Good boy. Good job. You’re doing so well.”

Changbin started pressing against his fingertips lightly, then slowly adding more pressure. He moved up to repeat the process on his palm, then his wrist.

By the time he had made it up to his forearm, Jisung had finally matched his breathing with Chan’s, albeit quite shakily, but that didn’t stop the praise.

“Good job, baby. You’re so good. We’re so proud of you.” Chan whispered as Jisung slumped in his lap.

“For what it's worth, I’d like to see them try to punish one of us.”

“Changbin, shut up.”

Chapter Text

“If anyone can help us here, it would be Minho!”

“I understand that, Changbin. Okay? I do. But you saw the way Ji reacted. Don’t you think he’d be hurt if we went behind his back?” Chan said as he scrubbed a hand down his face. “We’re the only people he trusts. If we did this, he’d feel so betrayed.”

Changbin groaned, “So we’re just supposed to what, sit back and watch this happen? Watch his family continue to isolate him from the world and pretend like he doesn’t exist one day, just to abuse him and treat him like less than a human the next? I can’t do this anymore, Channie. I can’t.”

“I know it’s hard, Bin. It’s hard for me too. But I can’t betray Jisung’s trust like that. Not when we’re all he has.”

“Fuck it. I’ll do it. You’ll have no part in it, okay? Just me. I’m willing to let him hate me and resent me if it gets him out of this hell hole.”

“Changbin! That’s not even the point! It’ll hurt him! Don’t you see that? I don’t care if it’ll make him hate me either, I want him safe and I want him happy. I don’t want him hurting because the only people in this godforsaken castle turned their backs on him!”

Jisung stood by his bedroom door, unable to listen to his Royal Guards talking anymore. He opened the door, “Let’s do it.”

“What?” The two of them turned to him with matching gobsmacked expressions.

“I said ‘Let’s do it.’ Let’s try to reach out to Minho for help.”

“Jiji, we don’t have to do this, okay? If you’re uncomfortable, we won’t.” Chan said, he stepped forward and combed his fingers through Jisung’s bed hair.

“No. I’m just as tired of this as you are. I’m so, so, tired.”

“C’mere,” Chan said as he pulled the younger into his chest, “You’re so brave, Sweet Prince. And so strong.”

“And so smart,” Changbin supplied.

“And so deserving of love,” Chan finished.

Jisung sniffled and buried his face in Chan’s chest, “Do you think, uhm, do you think you guys could come with me if I get out of here?”

“I’d like to see them try to keep us apart.”

“Yeah,” Chan chuckled, “I’d fight tooth and nail to stand by your side, you silly prince.”

Jisung appreciated the reassurance, but he knew deep down that the likelihood of Jisung’s Royal Guards being able to accompany him to a new Kingdom was slim. Their loyalties lay with Levanter, with The Han Family.

“What are you guys gonna do?”

“I’m gonna text Hyunjin, see if he can get us into contact with Minho, explain the situation, and go from there,” Changbin said, already pulling his phone from his pocket to do just that.

“Minho is smart. He can think of something.”

Jisung nodded. Minho was smart, incredibly smart. He’d be a great king one day.

But Jisung couldn’t help the doubts swirling around in his head. Did Jisung even deserve to stand next to a man that capable? Was he really worth all of this trouble? Would Minho tire of always having to fight for Jisung? Would he realize one day that all the time and work he put into him wasn’t worth it? What if Jisung was too weird, too loud, too annoying? What if Jisung snores, or talks in his sleep? What if he eats funny?

“Hey now, baby boy, stop over thinking okay? Everything is going to work out because you’re worth it. It’s your turn to get everything you’ve always wanted. You’ve waited so long, been so patient, so brave.” Chan said, rubbing his back.

Changbin’s phone ringing broke everyone from their sweet moment.

“Okay everyone, let’s go back to Ji's room, it’s Hyunjin.”

With the door locked tight and the three of them sitting in a circle on Jisung’s bed, Changbin pressed accept on the call.

“Are you fucking kidding me right now? - Oh, Father, I’m so sorry. - Sorry, sorry, hold on let me go to my room. I called you as soon as I got your message.”

Changbin chuckled at the younger’s tone changing as he spoke to his father, it was always funny seeing the way his tone changed depending on who he spoke to. To an outsider, Hwang Hyunjin was well put together, polite, the perfect son; but to his friends, he was loud and funny and dramatic.

“Okay, sorry. Now, what the actual fuck?!”

“Yeah. It’s honestly a lot worse than what is included in that text, but, you know, that seems like too much for a text message.”

“Yeah, no shit. What was in the text seemed like too much,” Hyunjin said, “I can call Lino now? Conference call?”

“Would that be okay Jiji?” Chan asked.

“Uhm, y-yeah. ‘S fine. ‘S fine.” Jisung mumbled.

“Are you sure?” Changbin asked, placing a hand on his knee and rubbing his thumb along the joint.

“Yeah. Promise.”

“Okay, Jinnie, add him to the call.”

A few moments passed and then there was a dull ringing on the line. It rang exactly three and three-quarters of a time, but who was counting? Definitely not Jisung.

“Hello? Hyunjin? What’s this?”

“Hey Lino! I’ve got some surprise guests on the line here, but before I tell you who and why we’re talking, I’m going to need you to sit down, preferably in a room alone.” Hyunjin said, his voice was serious and left no room for discussion.

“Uh, well, I’m in my room with Felix, is that okay? Or should I kick him out?”

A faint ‘hey!’ was heard, and Jisung smiled at his friend’s offended voice.

“Is that okay guys?”

The two guards looked at Jisung who just nodded his head.

“It’s fine,” Changbin said.

“Who is tha- is that Changbin? Is everything okay? Where’s Jisung?”

“What’s going on with Jisung?” Felix’s voice was heard, now closer to the phone, “Put it on speaker you brat.”

“Jisung is here with us now. We just had some… things come up. We needed your Kingly guidance.” Changbin trailed off awkwardly.

Hyunjin scoffed at his odd wording, “The Han family is forbidding Jisung from seeing you again, is what he’s trying to say.”

“Hyunjin!”

“What? Rip it off like a bandaid. Nothing will get done if we just beat around the bush like this.”

Jisung smiled, he decided he liked Hyunjin.

“She took my phone, Min.” Jisung finally spoke up. “She said she didn’t want me to marry you, so I wouldn’t. And that I wasn’t allowed to make our courtship official.”

“What the hell? How is that any of her business? What power does she even have?”

The six of them continued talking, mostly shit-talking Jisung’s family, but also bouncing ideas around on how to solve this problem.

“What about a Gala? We have one coming up soon. We could extend a specific invitation to Jisung, something important sounding that makes it seem as if he has no choice but to attend. Like VIP or something.” Felix suggested.

“That could work, but there’s still no guarantee that he’d be allowed to come,” Minho hummed as he thought, “We could post the guestlist as Mother does for the fancy red carpet events?”

“But this isn’t a red carpet event, and if we’re posting the guestlist, that would mean Jisung would have to make a public appearance,” Hyunjin said.

“We make it a red carpet event. We could say this is Minho and Jisung’s first event, pre-engagement. Mother would be ecstatic and it would look bad on The Han Family if Jisung doesn’t attend.” Felix said.

“Is that okay, Jisungie?” Minho asked, his voice softer now that it was directed at the younger.

“Uhm, yeah, if it’ll work,” he trailed off.

“Hold on, if The Han Family sees this announcement, they’ll know that Minho and Jisung have been talking. No one just announces a pre-engagement appearance without consulting the other party first.” Chan said.

Jisung crawled over and slumped into Chan’s lap, “This is stupid. Why can’t I just run away or something?” His words were muffled by Chan’s collarbone.

“I wish it was that easy, baby boy,” Chan said as he ran his fingers through his hair.

“Why can’t it be that easy?” Hyunjin asked. “You get him out of the castle, we meet him right outside of The Kingdom and bring him to ours? He’s an adult and he would have The King and Queen’s permission to be here.”

“We’d go to prison for treason,” Chan said.

“Not necessarily,” Minho started, “If you made it here, you’d be across the border of your country. Your Kingdom’s laws can’t reach you here, and I’m sure after explaining the situation, my parents would gladly accept you as Royal Guards for our Kingdom. You were sworn to protect Jisung first, then The Royal Han Family. That’s how personal guards work. You were just doing your jobs.”

“And we could still have a pre-engagement appearance at The Ball?”

The other five of them laughed at Jisung’s enthusiasm.

“Of course we could, Baby. If that’s what you want.” Minho said.

“Invite my family too! So we can really rub it in their faces.”

“Jisung!” Chan exclaimed.

“Where did our sweet prince go?!” Changbin asked, scandalized.

“What? They deserve it, especially The First Queen.”

“Yeah true, make it sting more than that slap. It’s what she gets for hitting my Jisungie.” Changbin pouted, crossing his arms.

“I’m sorry, she did what?” Minho growled.

“We’re doing this as soon as possible.” Hyunjin said, “How’s tomorrow work for everyone?”

“I’m sure I can move some things around,” Minho said, voice still dark and protective.

“Min, don’t you think we should talk to Mother and Father?”

“Okay. Let’s go. Now. Changbin, I’ll text you the details. Jisungie,” Minho’s voice softened again, “I love you, okay? More than you’ll ever know.”

Hyunjin fake gagged at Minho’s sweet and gentle voice.

Jisung took a sharp inhale in, his chest felt tight, but in the best way. Instead of vines climbing his insides and wrapping around his organs, he felt flowers bloom and butterflies dance.

“Mmmm,” Jisung shoved his face in Chan’s neck once again, his cheeks red hot, “I love you too.”

“Bye guys!” The two princes ended the call and left the trio with only Hyunjin.

“Do you guys have any idea of where to meet? How to get Jisung away from the palace?”

“It shouldn’t be too hard to get him out of here, but it would be harder for us to cross the border on foot than it would be for a Royal car from Miroh. You guys would have to meet us on this side. The car most likely wouldn’t even be stopped, they’d just let it right in since Miroh and Levanter are close allies. Jisung doesn’t have a driver so we couldn’t get him a car, and it would alert them too quickly even if he did.” Chan said.

“He doesn’t even have a driver- Okay, got it. We meet somewhere in Levanter in a Royal car. It would cause some press, but nothing we couldn’t handle. The hardest part would be getting the three of you in the car without paparazzi seeing or recognizing you.” Hyunjin replied.

“Also, we couldn’t bring much luggage with us if we’re walking that far, and it would be obvious if they see us putting bags in a Royal car. So, Ji, you couldn’t bring much with you.”

“I don’t have anything here worth keeping anyway.” Jisung shrugged.

Hyunjin vowed then and there that he would do everything in his power to get the younger into Miroh. No one deserved to live like that.

Chapter Text

It was three days after the phone call with Hyunjin and Minho that it actually happened. Jisung was awoken by Chan and Changbin in the early morning hours - probably only two in the morning - but that didn’t seem to stop his two Royal Guards.

“Hey, baby, I’m sorry to wake you, but it’s time to go, okay?”

“Hm? Wha’d’ya mean?” The younger boy sat up in his bed and pressed his fists into his eyes.

“Minho just texted and said it would be best to do it tonight, and at night would be easiest to avoid the paparazzi as much as possible. You still want to, right? It’s okay if you wanna change your mind.”

“No. No! I’m not some helpless, scared baby! I can do this!”

“Oh, my silly prince, that isn’t what I meant at all. You’re so strong and brave, but this is a big change, and you’re allowed to change your mind.”

“No. ‘Wanna be with Minho.”

“I know, baby. Let’s go then.”

Jisung changed out of his nightwear, into some warm civilian clothes, and grabbed the one item he for sure knew he needed to keep with him when he left. It was a book he found in the library a few years ago. It was old, well-loved; the spine cracked, the cover worn, the pages aged - and annotated by his mother. He clutched it tight to his chest as Chan walked over to him and pulled a hat over his head.

“Keep this pulled down as far as possible, okay Baby Boy?” he said as he pulled the bucket hat as far down as it would go.

“Channie,” he whined, “I can’t see anything.”

“Sorry,” Jisung pushed the hat back a tiny bit and saw Chan scratching the back of his neck, “Hyunjin is meeting us in his personal car to drive us to the border to meet Prince Minho and Prince Felix, and then we’ll get in the marked Royal Car to avoid border control.”

Jisung just nodded. His stomach was in knots thinking of all the ways this could go wrong. He had faith though; Chan told him it was his turn to get everything he wanted, and he wanted to believe his friend.

The walk away from The Han Palace was awkward and quiet. Changbin walked ahead first, with Chan and Jisung following, holding hands. They stuck mostly to back allies and side roads so the likelihood of running into anyone who would recognize them was lessened. About thirty minutes into their walk - as they were making their way down an old sidewalk - they heard a ‘psst’ sound.

Jisung’s body jerked with fear and Chan pulled him tightly into his side, almost behind him. Changbin stood guard in front of the two of them, prepared for anything.

“Damn, relax guys, it’s just me,” they heard followed by a laugh. Hyunjin stepped out of the shadows and smiled widely.

“Fuck, Jin, I almost killed you. I thought we were supposed to meet at the end of the road here. Why are you all the way out here alone in the dark? It’s not safe.” Changbin whined as he pulled Hyunjin into his well-built chest, seemingly as a way to apologize for the murder that didn't take place.

“Aw, ‘Binnie The Protector’ how sweet,” Hyunjin cooed and squeezed Changbin’s cheeks.

“Okay guys, as much as I’d love to watch the two of you flirt, we should keep moving,” Chan said with a sigh.

Changbin huffed and let go of Hyunjin quickly, “We weren’t flirting.”

Jisung’s eyes flitted between the two of them. Changbin’s cheeks were red and he looked down, while Hyunjin just smiled widely and giggled. They were definitely flirting.

“Alright! Onward!” Hyunjin spun on his heel, pointed to the sky, and marched forward to where his car was waiting at the end of the road, still giggling.

They made it to the car and Jisung fell asleep almost instantly.

In his sleep, he saw images of Minho’s smile, some from when they were younger, some from around a week ago. He felt himself smiling in the dream as Minho kissed his knuckles gently, kissed his cheek, and whispered kind words in his ear. The pleasant dream soon took a turn though. All of a sudden, Minho started laughing.

‘You really thought I wanted you?’ Dream Minho said, through his laughing fit, Jihye approached, and Minho put his arm around her.

'Jisung you need to wake up and realize that you’ll never be good enough for him,' Jihye sneered.

'Yeah Jisung, wake up.' Minho laughed.

'Wake up.'

The two of them laughed.

“Jisung, wake up.”

“Jiji, wake up.”

Jisung’s eyes snapped open and he jolted forward. His breathing was ragged and he was sweating.

“We’re here, Baby,” Chan said as he rubbed a hand over his back.

“Oh,” he forced out. He looked out the window and saw that the sun was still yet to rise. “What time is it?”

Chan looked at his watch, “4:58.”

Changbin turned in his seat to look back at them, “We’re right on schedule! Minho should be here any minute.”

Hyunjin looked down at his phone, “The last text I got from him said they were about thirty minutes from our meeting point, and that was,” he paused dragging over the message to check the time, “like twenty-something minutes ago.”

Jisung just nodded and sat back in his seat, the aftereffects of his dream still weighing heavily over him. He felt a growing desperation in his chest, he needed this. He needed Minho, he needed to get away from his family, he needed to feel loved - he needed a new life. The dream was baseless, he knew this; Minho didn’t want to marry Jihye. But it didn’t stop the insecurities that felt like they’d never leave him alone. The feeling clung to him like a sticky, gooey mess. It spread over him, ever-growing. He could feel it climbing up his body, smothering him.

“There they are!”

Jisung was brought back to the present when he heard one of them yell, he pushed his tired body forward again to look out the window. Approaching their car was another, solid black and with two Miroh flags standing proudly on the front and waving gently. His nerves spiked but Chan’s hand on his leg helped to keep him grounded.

When the Royal Car parked next to them, Changbin exited the car and surveyed their surroundings. When he deemed them safe, he opened the door for Jisung, who took a deep breath and stepped out. There was another man holding the door to the other car open and Jisung looked down to the ground shyly.

Chan stepped out behind Jisung and took his place next to him. Jisung saw him bow.

“Your Highness.”

Jisung looked up and saw Chan, Changbin, and the mystery man all bowed at the waist, then saw Minho brushing his pants off after stepping out of the car.

Jisung hastily threw himself into a bow as well and mumbled out Minho’s title.

“Knock it off guys, I’ve known you all far too long for such formalities. And you,” Minho said as he took a step forward and pulled Jisung back up into a standing position, “never need to bow to me. If anything, I should be the one to bow to you.”

Jisung flushed a deep red shade, he felt the blush radiate in his cheeks and spread down his neck.

“How has the trip been so far, Jagiya?” Minho asked.

Jisung’s eyes widened at the endearment and made a sound in his throat, “‘Jagiya’?” He asked.

“I’m courting you now, Love,” Minho said like that answered everything, “Is that okay?”

“Yes! I mean, uh, y-yeah, yeah, it’s okay.”

Minho cooed and pinched his cheek gently, “The trip? Was it okay? Was Hyunjin a safe driver?”

“Yeah, the trip was good, Hyunjin is an excellent driver.”

“He says that like he didn’t sleep the whole way,” Changbin chuckled.

Jisung flushed, “It’s early,” he whined.

“I’m sorry, I just wanted you to be safe.”

“S’okay. Glad to see you.”

Minho smiled as he stared at Jisung for a moment with a soft expression on his face.

“Did we just disappear to them?” Hyunjin asked, laughing.

Jisung looked away and down to his feet. He scuffed the toe of his shoe against the asphalt parking lot and kicked around a small pebble.

“Okay, let’s get you in the car,” Minho said, “This is Kim Seungmin, he’s an advisor of ours, and he’ll be driving us. Seungmin, this is Third Prince Han Jisung and his Royal Guards Bang Chan and Seo Changbin.”

Seungmin bowed to Jisung, “It’s my pleasure to be driving you tonight, Your Highness.”

Hyunjin rolled his eyes at this, “Don’t act all polite and innocent Seungminnie, I’m sure you were seconds away from cutting Min’s throat before you pulled in.”

Seungmin glared at Hyunjin, “Shut up, Weasel.”

Jisung laughed quietly under his breath, he couldn’t wait to get to Miroh if this was how everyone interacted. It reminded him of his relationship with Chan and Changbin, a stark contrast to the way his family treated their staff and advisors.

“Alright, let’s go then!” Chan said loudly with a dimpled smile.

Minho stepped in front of Seungmin - who rolled his eyes fondly - to push the seat forward for Jisung and then held a hand out to help him in. He followed after him and checked his seat belt. Chan and Changbin followed after them, sitting in the next row.

“Bye Jinnie, drive safe!” Changbin said with a wave and then closed the door.

Seungmin got in after and checked his mirrors, “Fuck.”

“What is it?” Chan asked and turned to look through the back windshield.

“I think they saw us,” Seungmin said, glaring at the two men on the other side of the parking lot who were pointing cameras at the two cars.

“It shouldn’t matter now, we’re only, like, ten minutes from the border,” Changbin said huffing. “Why can’t they just respect people’s privacy? Damn.”

“It’s probably going to come out that the two of you are courting,” Seungmin said as he pulled out of the parking lot, Hyunjin’s car following close behind.

“It doesn’t matter to me,” Minho said, “The sooner the public knows the better anyway. It won't be as much of a shock when it’s announced that Mother’s Public Aid Gala is our first official pre-engagement appearance. You still okay with that Jisungie?”

Jisung sleepily looked over to Minho and smiled, “‘Course. Wanna marry Minho,” he mumbled.

Minho smiled widely at the younger boy and pulled him into his side, “You’re just so cute, I could eat you.”

Chan and Changbin smiled fondly watching the two of them interact - Minho doting on Jisung and giving him the affection and attention he deserved, and Jisung just shyly and sleepily accepting it without fear of repercussions from his family.

As expected, getting across the border was fairly easy in a marked Royal Car, and the five of them made it to The Kingdom of Miroh Royal Castle in a few hours. Everyone was exhausted by the time Seungmin got out and pulled open a door. Chan and Changbin exited first and looked around with wide eyes - there was a whole crowd of people seemingly awaiting their arrival. Minho exited next and Chan, Changbin, Seungmin and the hoard of people gathered around all bowed at the waist.

Minho looked up to see his mother, father, and Felix all standing at the top of the steps in front of the doors with wide smiles.

“I told you to keep it lowkey!” He shouted fondly with a roll of his eyes.

When Jisung exited the car, the group bowed again, along with Minho, and his face burned.

“Why’re they bowin’ to me?” he mumbled.

“Baby, you know you’re a prince, right?” Minho chuckled.

“Not here, though.”

“You’re a prince, and you’re very important to me, so everyone in the castle, everyone in this kingdom, will treat you with respect. And if they don’t, come find me and we’ll resolve the issue. This is your home now.”

Minho led Jisung up the stairs, a path he’d walked many times, but it didn’t lessen his nervousness. The King and Queen of Miroh were smiling at the two of them softly, and Felix had a smirk on his face when he noticed the way Minho hadn’t stopped touching him from the moment he had stepped out of the car.

“Oh, my Jisungie,” The Queen cooed when they reached the final steps. She pulled him into her and hugged him tightly. “I’m so glad you’re finally here, I’ve been so worried about you, Precious Boy.”

Jisung’s face burned as The Queen combed her fingers through his hair.

“Are you hungry, boys?” The King asked with a gentle smile.

Minho looked at him with a questioning gaze, but before Jisung could insist he was fine and didn’t want to cause problems, Hyunjin bustled passed the group, grabbing Chan and Changbin’s hands to pull them along with him.

“I’m starved,” he shouted with a bright laugh.

“I could eat,” Seungmin said as he followed suit.

Jisung watched as Hyunjin shoved Seungmin as they walked towards what he guessed was The Great Hall. Seungmin shouted in protest and stuck a leg out to trip the taller.

The Queen chuckled fondly at their antics, but Jisung was confused. He looked to Minho for the answer to the question he didn’t ask - didn’t even know how to articulate.

“Come on, Baby,” he said. “Let’s eat and then we can talk, okay?”

Chapter Text

After their late breakfast, the group decided it was time for a nap as everyone was exhausted from the late-night trip and stress. Minho and Felix directed Chan and Changbin to their permanent rooms in The East Wing - much nicer than The Guards Quarters in The Han Castle - but assured them that if it would make everyone more comfortable, they could set up some rooms closer, or even pull cots into Jisung’s room for now.

Jisung liked the idea of Chan and Changbin staying close but was afraid of making more work for everyone after such a taxing morning so he declined quickly.

“I’ll be okay on my own,” he mumbled quietly, eyes glued to his hands where he picked at the skin around his nails.

“Baby Boy, it’s okay if you’d prefer us closer,” Chan said as he pulled Jisung’s hands into his own.

“Yeah, this has been a big change for you. You’re allowed to feel anxious or overwhelmed, and I want to do everything I can to make you comfortable and accommodate your needs.”

Minho was so kind, how was Minho so kind?

“It’s really okay?”

“Of course, Jagiya.” Minho smiled.

“Okay. C-can they sleep in my room for right now?”

“Whatever you want, Baby.” Minho took his hand and threaded their fingers together, “Now, let’s show you your room.

They took off walking to The West Wing, where Minho’s, Felix’s, and now Jisung’s rooms resided.

“Felix was supposed to come with us last night, but he stayed behind to finish setting up your room,” Minho started but was cut off.

“Oh, I’m sorry it was so much trouble,” he trailed off.

“No, no, no!” Minho exclaimed. “He wanted to do it! He wouldn’t let us pry him out of this room until he deemed it perfect.”

Minho laughed and ran his thumb over the back of Jisung’s hand where they were still connected. Jisung glanced down in a daze. He was holding his childhood crush’s hand - not just his childhood crush, but the man he would marry!

The warmth in his chest blossomed like the pretty, pink flowers planted outside that he had seen when they came in. It was such a nice and cozy feeling, to have people that wanted to do things for him.

They finally halted when they came to a door with a cute sign on it that read ‘Welcome Home Jisungie.’

“This is your room,” Minho said, then pointed to the door next to it, “This one’s Felix’s, and then the one right across from Felix’s in mine. Mother and Father’s room is in The North Wing.”

Jisung looked between the three doors. Felix and Minho’s rooms also had signs that had cutesy names written on them and he smiled.

“The signs are cute,” he said quietly.

“Felix made them to help you. He said maybe you’d feel a little more at home if you knew exactly what all of your surroundings were. He’s a sweetheart like that,” Minho smiled. “Do you wanna see your room?”

Jisung took a breath and nodded.

When Minho pushed the door open, Jisung audibly gasped. This room was nothing like his own back in Levanter. That room had been dark and boring - the walls and furniture dark, the drapes and bedding a deep green, and the only decorations being a few sterile-looking paintings and portraits with eyes that seemed to follow him. But this was nothing like that.

No, this room had bright white walls and paintings of flowers decorating the walls. There was a huge bookshelf that held a couple of books and knick-knacks - clearly intentionally left with empty spots so Jisung could add to the collection himself - and a big desk on one side of the room. On the opposite, there was a huge window with billowy curtains that overlooked a garden. Over the bed, there was a soft, powder blue canopy, a white duvet, and more colorful pillows than Jisung knew what to do with.

“If there’s anything you don’t like, we can remove it and find replacements,” Minho said as he scratched the back of his neck.

Jisung turned to him with a look of awe coating his features, “No! It’s absolutely perfect! I-I love it.”

Minho smiled at him fondly, and Jisung noticed that his ears were turning red.

“Chan. Changbin,” Minho turned to address the two guards who were quietly standing behind them, “Would it be okay if I spoke with Jisungie alone?”

“Uhm, yeah,” Chan said after a moment, “If it’s okay with Ji.”

“Yeah. I’ll be okay, Channie.”

The guard just nodded and then turned to the door, Changbin following suit. Minho turned back to him with a soft smile.

“I noticed that you were a bit uncomfortable this morning with everyone. Is everything okay? I know they can be a bit much, but I’m sure if I talked to them they could tone it down,” Minho said as he sat on the edge of Jisung’s bed.

Jisung stood awkwardly, unsure what to do, and shrugged, “No. They’re okay. I don’t want them to change the way they act because I’m here now.”

“Is there something that’s bothering you, then?” Minho asked. He reached his hand out to Jisung and tugged him over to the bed to sit next to him.

Jisung’s heart ached in the best way at the way Minho seemed to care so deeply about his wellbeing. His world was beginning to seem brighter like the white walls of this room contrasted with the worn dark wood of his old one.

“It’s just, it’s nothing bad,” he paused, unsure if he really wanted to say anything. It wasn't even a big deal, just very, very odd. They’ve done so much for him, the least he can do is get over some random changes. Of course things would be different, he needed to stop being such a baby. But the way Minho waited patiently and ready to listen to what was on his mind made him want to continue, he was looking at Jisung like he had never laid eyes on something so important and would move mountains for him if he could.

“I guess the dynamic is just different,” he finished, his voice trailing off.

“What do you mean?” Minho asked.

“Uhm, well, I obviously don’t care about the titles and things, and Chan and Changbin’s relationship with me isn’t all that professional, but everyone else in my family really hated that. The staff were treated exactly like that, staff. They berated me constantly for allowing my guards to treat me the way they do. I guess it’s just weird to see. Different.”

“Oh. Yeah, we see our staff more as family. They take care of us, we take care of them. Hyunjin and Jeongin have been around for so long that Mother and Father see them as their own kids. Seungmin too, but neither party mentions it. Mother says he’s too young but he’s excellent at his job. That doesn’t stop her from babying him though.” Minho said.

Jisung smiled, “That’s, that’s really, really nice. Um, who’s Jeongin?” Jisung stopped abruptly, his eyes widening, “If-if I’m allowed to ask!”

Minho chuckled fondly, “You can ask whatever you want, Baby.” He ran his thumb in soothing circles across Jisung’s knuckles, “Jeongin is, well, he started as the gardener's son, but his mother passed away when he was, hm thirteen maybe? He didn’t have anywhere else to go so Mother insisted he stay here. He likes to keep up with the garden in his mother’s honor, I also think he sees it as a way to give back and contribute. I’m surprised they haven’t officially adopted him yet.”

“Oh, wow. Th-that’s incredible actually. Your mother, I mean, The Queen! The Queen is so incredible.”

This place was so different, so good. Jisung can see himself being happy here. It was strange, and Jisung had a difficult time wrapping his head around the idea. He thought every Royal Family was the same - all plastic smiles and ugly personalities. But here, in Miroh, it was like he had walked into an alternate universe. This found family of strays made him feel like he too could be a part of something better, happier. He finally felt like he could live for something.

Chapter Text

Days turned to weeks turned to months. Jisung spent this time acclimating to his new environment, learning his new friends’ quirks, exploring the palace, and getting to know the man that Minho had grown up to become. And damn, did Minho become a good man.

Jisung learned that Minho was going to be an incredible leader - someone who cared deeply about his kingdom, the staff surrounding him, the found family his parents had curated, and most surprisingly - to no one other than himself - Jisung.

Minho seemed to be besotted with Jisung, and it was hard to adjust to.

Jisung also had a hard time really finding his place in the palace. Everyone had a job and Jisung couldn’t get past the hurdle of finding the right one for him. Minho had told him that he didn't need to, that it was enough for him to just simply be there, but Jisung wanted more. He wanted to give back to the family and the kingdom that had so graciously taken him in.

He tried to help out in the kitchen, but while the staff were incredibly kind and enjoyed him being there, Jisung was a disaster. The head chef was a seemingly stern man who honestly terrified Jisung at first, but he turned out to be just as warm-hearted as the rest of the residents. He had taken to teaching Jisung some simpler dishes and had never once kicked Jisung out of the kitchen, but after seeing how overwhelmed Jisung would become by making a simple mistake, he decided it would be best for Jisung to limit his cooking lessons to just once a week.

He also tried to help out in the garden. Jisung knew gardening well, he had spent so much time growing up in his mother’s garden that he felt very confident in this ability, but he noticed that Jeongin preferred to work alone. And Jisung understood this probably more than anyone - he also didn't enjoy when someone new would come in and mess with his own late mother’s garden - so he decided to leave Jeongin to it.

Jisung tried out so many different things but he just couldn’t seem to fit in with the rest of the palace residents, so he found himself more often than not in the library.

“Jagiya,” Minho said as he strode into the room.

Jisung looked up from his book and smiled at the older man.

“What are you reading today, hm?” Minho asked as he sat on the arm of Jisung’s chair.

“It’s a book about birds,” Jisung shyly mumbled.

Minho smiled, “Oh? Tell me about them.”

Jisung looked down at his book, his cheeks pink, “The chapter I just read was about Golden Pheasants. They’re clumsy and antisocial. They don’t like to fly even though they can.”

“Ah, an interesting bird, indeed. Kind of reminds me of you, Baby.”

“Hey!” Jisung shouted, his mouth wide with faux offense.

“I’m kidding, Darling,” Minho smiled as he cradled Jisung’s cheek, “Are you hungry? They’re setting the table now.”

Jisung stared at Minho for a moment longer, he couldn’t help getting lost in his thoughts when Minho was this close to him. He was so incredibly handsome. After what was probably too long, but who was Minho to tell him he couldn’t look at him, Jisung nodded. He placed his book on the table beside his favorite chair and got up to follow Minho.

They made their way through the winding labyrinth of hallways, which Jisung was finally becoming accustomed to, and entered The Great Hall.

“Jisungie, dear, did you find that book you were searching for?” The Queen of Miroh asked when Jisung took his seat at the table.

Jisung shook his head, “No ma’am. I settled on birds, it’s very interesting.”

“Ah, excellent choice. I’ll go tomorrow and see if I can find the other book for you,” The Queen started but was cut off.

“No, no, no, it’s okay. I don’t wanna trouble you,”

The Queen just smiled. A few weeks ago, Jisung never would’ve cut her off like this, it was nice seeing him becoming more comfortable and finding his own place within their family.

“It’s no trouble, I’d like to be able to help you find it.”

The doors to The Great Hall burst open and in walked Hyunjin with all of his dramatic flare.

“I’ve been so busy! Please, feed me!”

The King chuckled and motioned for Hyunjin to join them at the table, “You might as well just move in Hyunjin, I swear you’re here more than your own home anyway.”

“Ah, Father, you’re so kind!” Hyunjin smiled widely as he hugged The King from behind. He made his way around the table, stopping to kiss The Queen on the cheek, then to ruffle Jisung’s hair, and finally sat down at his place at the table.

The King just rolled his eyes fondly at Hyunjin.

The next to join the group were Jeongin and Changbin.

“How’s your training going, Flower?” The Queen asked Jeongin as he kissed her cheek as well before sitting down.

“It’s good,” Jeongin said quietly.

“Innie’s got some real potential. Don’t let his quiet demeanor fool you, Your Majesty.” Changbin laughed as he took a seat as well.

“Father!” Felix shouted as he burst through the door next, pulling Chan along by the hand with Seungmin following behind, much calmer.

“Felix, inside voice, Darling.” The Queen laughed.

“What is it, Son?”

“Channie’s gotta be an Advisor! You don’t understand! He’s so smart and he’s such a great leader and even Seungminnie agrees!” Felix said, excited but much quieter than before.

“It’s true, he truly has a knack for it. Very noble and wise.” Seungmin said as he slid into his seat.

“We’ll talk about it later, Felix. I’d like to see more of his nobleness but not here at Family Dinner, okay? No more advisor talk.”

“Yes, Father.” Felix grinned and sat down, pulling Chan into the chair next to him.

Jisung looked around the table and smiled, this was his family now, and he couldn’t be more thankful.

“Ah, only one small work thing, Dear,” The Queen said, “Is that okay?”

“Of course, My Love, anything.” The King gave The Queen all of his attention as he waited for her to speak again.

“The Gala is tomorrow, is everyone prepared? Suits in order? Schedules memorized? Jisungie, are you still okay with everything moving ahead?”

“Of course, Your Majesty.”

“C’mon, none of that at the table. We’re family, you know.”

“Y-yes Ma’am. I’m ready for the gala.”

“Excellent. I’m so excited!” The Queen said happily. She clapped her delicate hands together with enthusiasm, and it was moments like this that really showed where Felix got his excitement from.

“Well then, as of tomorrow, your courtship will be official and public and we can move forward with other appearances and then begin planning the engagement ceremony,” The King said as he placed a hand on top of his wife’s.

“Is that okay?” Minho said as he leaned over to whisper in Jisung’s ear, “Not too fast?”

“No, not too fast,” Jisung confirmed. “Wanna marry Minho.”

“So you keep saying,” Minho grinned.

Chapter Text

The next morning was a blur to Jisung. Everyone in The Castle was flitting around making final preparations and getting everything ready for The Gala. The Gala at which Minho and Jisung will make their pre-engagement appearance.

After breakfast, Jisung was whisked away with a final kiss to his knuckles from Minho, to get ready. The stylists began asking him question after question about his preferences for hair and makeup and Jisung began getting overwhelmed. Chan popped his head into the room like he was a bloodhound that could smell Jisung’s anxiety from miles away.

“Oh, Baby Boy, are you doin’ okay?” Chan asked as he pulled him into his chest. “Give us a moment, please?” Chan said to the stylists, who all nodded and scurried out of the room.

“I’m okay, Channie,” Jisung mumbled, “Jus’ a lot.”

“I know, Sweet Prince, but think about what this means for you,” Chan said as he pulled Jisung’s face from his neck and kissed him on the forehead.

“C-can you…” Jisung trailed off and then shook his head, he felt stupid that he was about to ask for even more accommodations.

“What is it, Baby Boy? Ask me for anything.”

“I just, there’s a lot of people in here th-that I don’ know…” Jisung trailed off again. Chan just nodded and stepped over to the door where the stylists had exited. Jisung never really had to ask Chan for what he wanted, Chan could basically read his mind.

“Hi, yes, I’m sorry but could we possibly limit the amount of people in here at a time?” Chan asked sweetly with a dimpley smile. And you’d have to be a cold-hearted monster to deny anything that that man asked of you when he smiled like that. It was like denying Felix anything he wanted, you just couldn’t. Those two would be unstoppable if they used their powers for evil.

When the stylists came back into the room, there were only three, and Jisung felt his body sag with the slightest bit of relief. It was like his lungs now allowed him to take in just the tiniest bit more oxygen, breathing made significantly easier. Chan also decided to stay with Jisung while he was dressed and fussed over, smiling fondly whenever someone would make a comment about how cute Jisung was and made his cheeks flush with embarrassment.

The small team settled on light makeup - a slightly shimmery eyeshadow and light blush to emphasize his cute, boyish appearance. They curled his slightly overgrown hair in a way that Jisung actually really liked, he may not cut his hair after all.

When it came down to dressing, Jisung stood in front of his bed where his gowns were laid out and gnawed on his plush, petal-pink bottom lip. The gowns were a dark maroon, the color of The Lee Family. Did he really deserve to wear this shade of red?

“What are you thinking about, Beloved?”

Jisung jumped at the new voice and turned around. Minho was breathtaking.

His suit fit him perfectly, mostly black with accents of the same maroon color as Jisung’s gowns. The cape over his shoulders ended just past his waistline and was black, but the underside was a rich, maroon-colored silk, shiny when the light hit it just right. He had dark but subtle eye makeup and what looked like a bit of highlighter on his high cheekbones. His dark, inky hair was mostly pushed back from his forehead with a few intentional strands left to frame his face. And GODS, did he smell good. Even from his place across the room, standing in Jisung’s doorway, Jisung could still smell him. He smelled like vanilla and bourbon, and something a little smokey.

“Cat got your tongue?” Minho smirked as he took a few steps into the room. He stepped up to Jisung and placed his hands on Jisung’s waist, his thumbs stroking soothingly over Jisungs dress shirt.

“Y-you’re just so handsome,” Jisung muttered, his face turning a deep shade of red as he looked to the floor.

“Thank you, Baby,” Minho smiled and used his index finger and thumb to lift Jisung’s face up to look at him, he kissed his forehead and then chuckled softly. “Why’re you having a staring contest with your robes?”

Jisung looked between the clothes on his bed and Minho a few times, the maroon beginning to intimidate him.

“They’re maroon,” Jisung said quietly.

“What? Of course they are,” Minho said, confused. “What other color would they be?”

Jisung shrugged.

“Jagiya,” Minho said as he pulled away from Jisung and picked up Jisung’s outer robes, the jacket-like piece so richly saturated that it stood out starkly against the bright white of Jisung’s room. He guided one of Jisung’s arms through one of the sleeves, then kissed the hand. “You are a part of this family now.” He slipped the garment up and over Jisung’s other arm, kissed that hand, and straightened the color. “This color is your color now.”

Jisung wriggled in place in embarrassment, and he whined slightly.

Minho just chuckled and picked up the cape, much longer than Minho’s own - almst reaching the floor - and all maroon. Jisung’s set of robes were more red than any of the rest of The Lee Family, like they were using their color to stake their claim on Jisung. A subtle way to say ‘he is ours now, our family and we will stand with him’. Minho secured the cape over Jisung’s shoulders and adjusted the gold chains that held everything in place. “This color suits you much better than green,” Minho sneered, like ‘green’ was the worst color in existence.

“Hey! Green isn’t that bad! There’s lots of pretty shades of green!” Jisung defended but broke off in a giggle when Minho kissed Jisung’s nose and then both cheeks.

“But don’t you just prefer red, hm? It looks so pretty on you.”

Jisung flushed and Minho chuckled, “See? Even the red of your cheeks; so pretty. My pretty boy.” Minho smiled and then took his hand, “Let’s go then, we have an engagement to announce!”

Jisung smiled widely at the giddy tone in Minho’s voice and squeezed his hand back as they made their way to the waiting room.

The introductions moved quickly, despite there being many. Jisung’s anxiety made him yearn for just five more minutes before it was their turn. They were the last to come out and as they stood alone in the waiting room, Minho squeezed his hand one last time before releasing; instead, holding it down and in a fist, Jisung took a moment to stare at his kingly stance - back straight and heels together, his face perfectly neutral but still inviting.

The doors began to open and Jisung rushed to get into his position, clasping his hands around Minho’s elbow.

“Now entering,” one of the Elder Court Members said loudly, “Crown Prince Lee Minho of Miroh, and his husband-to-be, Prince Han Jisung of Levanter.”

The entire crowd turned to stare at the two of them as they made their way down the stairs slowly. He could see The Lee Family waiting at the base of the stairs, and his own father in the lineup as well. He knew The King of Levanter would be there, they’d practiced for this probably fifty times yesterday, but the person in his father's place yesterday was Changbin, and he found himself wishing it had still been him instead.

Minho stopped after they had descended the stairs, in front of The King of Levanter. Minho bowed deeply, but not nearly as deeply as the few times he had bowed to Jisung himself, he noticed. Minho then shook his father's hand firmly, a small (and fake but no one other than those close to him could tell) smile on his face. The King had a stormy look on his face, but he always looked like that so who’s to say if he was angry or not? He probably was. Jisung released Minho’s arm, just as practiced, bowed, and then leaned forward and kissed both of his father’s cheeks, he wanted to throw up.

When Jisung finally grabbed a hold of Minho again, it felt like he had been floating away but Minho had grounded him, kept him tethered to the floor, and unable to fly up into the clouds of his anxiety and five-hundred-mile-per-hour thoughts.

They made their over to The Royal Lee Family next. Jisung chanced a glance over into the crowd and he saw Jiho, Jihye, and The First Queen staring back at him with snarling faces. Minho raised his other hand and placed it over where Jisung was clutching his elbow, a soothing gesture that reminded him where he was. He looked to The Lee Family and smiled.

He bowed, deeper than before, and kissed The King of Miroh’s cheeks the same way he had his father’s but this time, The King had smiled brightly and kissed his back, warm hands firmly placed on his shoulders, Jisung giggled.

“Welcome to the family,” The King said.

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

When he stepped in front of The Queen, he bowed deeply once again, kissed her cheeks, and then was surprised when she pulled him down into a hug. She held him tightly - he couldn’t breathe, but he couldn’t be happier. He hugged her back just as tight.

“I’m sorry, I’m just so happy!” She said. When they separated, Jisung saw tears in her eyes as she looked at Jisung like he hung the stars. She caressed his face gently.

“Welcome home, Jisungie.”

Chapter Text

Later in the night, Jisung found himself alone in a corner. He fiddled with the sleeves of his coat, rubbing his fingers over the crisp fabric, as he watched Minho interact with a few Court Members. He smiled softly, Minho was so beautiful and kind and intelligent. He was going to be such an excellent king, and Jisung was giddy thinking about how he would get to be there to see everything up close, standing beside Minho.

He looked away and gave a cursory glance around the room and saw his step-sister walking towards him. He swallowed thickly.

Jihye approached Jisung with a saccharine smile - sweet and fake. Jihye was all artificial sweet candy, never the real cherry. She hugged him tight for a moment and pulled away to grab him by his shoulders. “You look, wow,” her toothy smile dropped from her face, “like you don’t belong.”

It’s always been like this. It always will be like this. That smile will always look nice from far away but up close, it will be lethal - teeth sharp and intimidating like a shark. And wasn’t that the perfect explanation for Jihye? Blood-hungry and aggressive; always prepared to sneak up on her prey, deliver the final murderous chomp, and feast on their remains.

“It doesn’t matter what robes you wear, you’ll always just look like a dumb little boy. That’s all you’ll ever be. And this family will realize soon enough.”

“Leave me alone, Jihye.”

“Ya know, he probably just thinks he can save you. A pathetic savior complex,” Jihye continued, blatantly ignoring him like she had always done before. Talking at him rather than to him.

Was this deja vu? Why do they keep telling him this? He’s getting dizzy, Jihye’s perfume was strong and clogging his nose. It made his eyes water.

“It’s not bad, all kings have them. They think they can save everyone - solve every problem,” She tapped a long, sharp nail against her chin and hummed, “Or maybe he wanted ties with our family but not someone strong-willed. You’re easy to brush off.”

“Jihye, please, just leave me alone.” Jisung pleaded.

“Father said if you come back, he’d even let your goons off on a warning. They won’t be prosecuted for betraying The Royal Family, betraying their country." She shrugged. "Just food for thought. You don’t belong here. You stick out like a sore thumb - everyone here is thinking it,” She trailed off and looked out towards the crowd of guests in The Ballroom. “You’ll never be fit to stand beside a king. You’re not even fit to stand next to your own father or brother.”

Jisung’s insides twisted. He could feel his organs wrapping around themselves, knotting tighter, tighter, tighter. He didn’t think he’d ever be able to untie them; he feared that even if he could, they’d be kinky and curly, a constant reminder of the words that forced them into this shape. Forever mangled, damaged.

His chest started pulling on him, weighing him down to the floor. He needed to get out of there.

His lungs felt like they were expanding beyond their limits; like they were shriveled and incapable of drawing in oxygen. His brain was whirring faster than a train; it was blank and empty. The feelings taking over his mind and body gave him whiplash. His skin thrummed and his eyes burned with tears he was too embarrassed to shed.

How had he managed to escape that hell - into a new kingdom, with a new family, new friends - and they still found a way to tear him down and make him feel less than them? He should be happy; this was his official pre-engagement appearance, he’s marrying Minho - his childhood crush - and everyone in his family’s Kingdom, in Minho’s Kingdom, and their neighboring Kingdoms knew it. He should be ecstatic, and yet he felt like he never wanted to be seen by anyone ever again. He desperately needed to hide away - away from prying eyes and torturous family.

Maybe they were right. Maybe he wasn’t fit to be here - in this palace, at this gala, wearing these dark, saturated, maroon-colored robes that signified his connection to The Royal Lee Family. He couldn’t even stand in a corner without breaking down into tears. He’d only embarrass Minho - a king whose husband had a panic attack at every Ball or Gala. He was a useless, pathetic child.

It’s all he’s ever been.

It’s all he’ll ever be.

“Where are your Guards, My Love?” Jisung heard whispered in his ear, accompanied by a warm, possessive hand that trailed lightly across his lower back and settled around his waist.

Jisung looked up to see Minho staring at him with a fond smile, but the sweet curve of his pretty, pink mouth couldn’t mask the fierce protectiveness in his eyes.

“Uhm, Channie is getting me a- a water and I think Changbinnie is speaking with Hyunjin,” Jisung stuttered out.

“Okay, baby,” Minho used his other hand to brush some of Jisung’s hair out of his eyes and then turned to Jihye, “You’re making him uncomfortable. Leave him alone or I’ll have you escorted out.”

Jihye scoffed, “It would be ridiculous to cause such a scene.”

Minho raised an eyebrow and looked down his nose at the girl, “Why? Because I’m protecting the man I’m engaged to? The man who I’ll be marrying? If anything, the public would only see that as positive.” He hummed, “How would they think of your family, of you, if you were to be escorted out of your brother’s future Kingdom’s Gala, hm?” He smirked at Jihye.

The idea that this Kingdom would one day be his, lit a fire inside of him. It burned blue and white at the base with anxiety and uncertainty, but bright reds and yellows at the top with joy and adoration. His insecurities would not get in the way, not this time; Minho would rule Miroh one day, and Jisung would stand beside him.

Because Minho wanted him to stand beside him.

“How can your family allow you to behave this way?” Jihye asked, tone dark and venomous.

“It is encouraged to protect our family. Jisungie is a part of this family now, whether you like it or not.”

Jihye scoffed again as Minho began leading Jisung away, to the opposite side of The Ballroom.
As they passed by her, Minho paused, “Jihye, even if I weren’t marrying Jisung, which I will be, and even if I weren’t gay, I still would never marry you.”

Jihye’s face turned red with fury, if it were possible, smoke would be rolling from her ears.

When they were successfully hidden away in the opposite corner, Jisung huffed. “Min, don’t you think that was too far? What if she tells-”

“You don’t have to worry about them anymore. They can’t hurt you, I won’t allow that. This family won’t allow that,” Minho reached a hand out and cupped his cheek, “And from now on, if I’m not beside you, I want Chan or Changbin next to you. Always.”

Jisung nodded and then slumped down, resting his forehead against Minho’s shoulder. It was then that Chan had found them.

“Jiji, you weren’t where I left you,” he said before he realized that something wasn’t right. “What happened,” he asked, tone lilting in concern.

“Jihye,” Minho said, not giving any further explanation as he rubbed his hands over Jisung’s back trying to soothe him.

Chan snarled and looked around the room, taking note of everyone around them, and then turned back to the other two. “I’m sorry, Your Majesties,” Chan bowed deeply, showing deep respect and sorrow, “I shouldn’t have left him.”

“It’s alright Channie. But from now on, if I’m not around, you or Changbin must be by his side.” Minho said.

Jisung looked up then, tears gathered in his lash line, “M’sorry.”

“Why’re you sorry Baby?” Minho ran his thumb gently over Jisung’s cheeks, brushing his tears away.

“I’m such a hassle,” Jisung mumbled, “They’re right. I’m just a dumb child-”

“No!” Minho and Chan said in unison.

“No, Jagiya, you’re so so special,” Minho said.

“You’re so strong and brave,” Chan added.

“And so incredibly smart,” Minho cooed.

“And so funny and bright,” Changbin said when he joined the group, jumping right in as he was used to the routine of reminding Jisung that he was worthy.

“And sweet and cute,” Hyunjin said from Changbin’s side, reaching forward to pinch Jisung’s cheek. He wasn't one hundred percent sure what was happening, but he had a few guesses and he wanted to help Jisung feel better.

Jisung’s cheeks were red, but his tears had subsided. He hid his face in Minho’s neck.

“Why’re we reminding Jisungie of how loved and amazing he is?” Changbin asked. And wasn’t that something? He was loved. He was so loved. Before anyone could answer Changbin’s question, Felix came bounding up to the group.

“Hyung!” He said as he bounced into the circle the others had created around Jisung and Minho. “What’s happened? Who hurt my Jisungie?”

“It’s nothing Lixie,” Jisung said as he turned his face to look out at everyone, his head still resting against Minho’s shoulder. “‘M all better now!” Jisung smiled.

The group all cooed at Jisung, Hyunjin reaching to pinch his pink cheeks again. He finally lifted his head and saw Jeongin and Seungmin both standing around the group now too, concern on their faces but they smiled at him when they caught each others’ eyes.

Yeah, he was all better now. He settled back against Minho again, surrounded by all of these people who love him and believe in him.

What a nice feeling, to be loved.

Chapter Text

Before Jisung knew it, it was time for the official engagement announcement. Everything was a blur - the hair, the makeup, the stylists, the photo shoot, the press conferences, the official appearances. The only things that seemed to remain clear and crisp in Jisung’s mind were evening dinners with his new friends and family, walks through the garden at sunset holding his fiance’s hand, early mornings on the veranda sharing coffee and smiles, afternoons spent curled up in the library with The Queen.

Weeks passed. And then a few months. Jisung had never felt so happy, so free. So Jisung.

And then suddenly, there were decorators coming in and out of The Castle, caterers crowding the kitchen, florists putting together last minute arrangements, photographers and news teams capturing the lead up to ‘The Wedding of The Century!’. Jisung was anxious, of course he was; but more than that, he was happy. So overwhelmingly happy, that his joy was radiating from him. People were stopping him in the hallways to tell him he was glowing, and he was thanking them! And making eye contact! And having conversations! He’s never done that before.

That was until, the day before their wedding. The Royal Han Family arrived in Miroh. It was customary for the family of the ‘bride’ (or in this case: husband as traditions didn’t exactly reflect LGBTQ+ relationships) to stay in The Castle before a Royal Wedding, which led to a very awkward morning.

The King and Queen stood at the top of the stairs to welcome their guests, Minho and Jisung next to them, and then Felix right after. At the door, stood Seungmin and Chan - who had started working closely together as The King wanted to see if he would consider becoming a Royal Advisor.

The Royal Han Family ascended the stairs, greeted each member of The Royal Lee Family, and everyone entered The Castle. The doors slammed shut, and Jisung immediately felt the weight of their presence around him.

In the late afternoon, Jisung had managed to sneak away to the library, his favorite place - a safe haven. When he entered, he breathed in deeply to inhale that familiar book smell and walked over to a glass display case. He ran his finger gently along the corner of the case and grinned.

--

”Jisungie, Darling, I have a surprise for you.”

Jisung looked up from his coffee to see The Queen smiling at him bashfully, her hands clasped in front of her.

“Yes Ma’am?” He asked with a slight furrow to his brow.

“Come with me?” She asked quietly.

Jisung nodded and got up to follow her. She led him down the winding hallways that he now knew like the back of his hand - he knew where they were going. The library. When they got there, she pushed open the heavy door before Jisung could get to it, intending to open it for her, and looked back at him with a grin. They walked in together and she grabbed his hand and pulled him over to an almost empty shelf, which was odd. This shelf hadn’t been empty before, and he would know as he’d been in this room perusing the shelves every single day since he arrived in Miroh.

She took his hand and walked him right up to the empty shelf. Jisung looked at the singular item that had been placed upon it and nearly burst into tears.

There on the shelf, in a glass display case with a lid, was the only possession he brought with him from Levanter - his mother’s favorite book. It was a poetry book, each poem annotated by her in soft, delicate handwriting. It had notes in the margins, scrawled thoughts and opinions, and then in the very back of the book, a poem of her own written.

Jisung looked up at The Queen with tears brimming his big, doe eyes, “Thank you.”

--

Jisung opened the case and took the book in his hands, he had read it a million times - could probably recite the book from cover to cover including his mother's annotations and additions - but he didn’t care. He sat in his favorite chair, pulled his feet up to settle underneath himself, and cracked the book open to the first page, ready to see the world from his mother's beautiful perspective just one more time.

He was about halfway through the book when the door to the library opened. He looked up expecting The Queen as they spent time in the library together often, or maybe even Minho who sometimes enjoyed sitting with Jisung and listening to him read, but the soft and content expression dropped from his face when he was greeted with the snarling face of The First Queen of Levanter.

“Do you have time to spare? Want to chat?”

Jisung stared at her for a moment and then snapped his book closed before placing it gently on the table next to his chair.

“If we must,” he said, barely suppressing a sigh.

“I only want what’s best for you, you know that don’t you?” She said with a sympathetic tone in her voice, but Jisung knew it was fake. He gave her an unimpressed stare. “You’re making a terrible decision, Jisungie,” she sneered, mocking The Lee Family’s nickname for him. “You’re cutting ties with us. Who will be there for you when Minho throws you away? You know he will, don’t you?”

Jisung huffed through his nose lightly, “It’s not like you were there for me before.” He willed his voice to sound strong and courageous. The usual stutter and shakiness now gone. He was strengthened by the love and support that he has here in Miroh. This woman couldn’t hurt him anymore.

“How dare you speak to me that way!” Her face scrunched up in so much anger that even the years of Botox she had had couldn’t mask it.

“You’re nothing to me. You’re not my mother, not my father’s wife, not the queen. I left Levanter, so you can’t touch me now.”

The First Queen raised her hand to smack him and Jisung stood bravely, ready to take the hit. He wouldn’t cower away anymore. He closed his eyes and tried to brace for the impact… but it never came.

He slowly opened his eyes to see The Queen of Miroh holding the other woman’s wrist tightly, a fire blazed in her usually soft, sweet eyes, “Don’t touch my son.” Her voice was sharp, lethal - a tone Jisung had never heard from her before.

“Excuse me?! Your son?! This is outrageous! Let go of me!”

“Then leave. Leave right now, stop hurting my Jisung, and we’ll consider keeping up our alliance with Levanter.”

Jisung’s cheeks felt hot, his eyes stinging with tears; he tried to hold it back, but he couldn’t anymore; he burst into tears. A heart-wrenching sob ripped its way from his throat - a guttural sound that had sat and festered deep within his soul for so many years.

Suddenly, Minho, Changbin, and Chan all burst into the room, alerted by the sound of Jisung’s cry, but he couldn’t hear them. He fell to the ground right then and there as his knees buckled; the joints unable to hold him up any longer, “Thank you,” he cried out.

He had never felt so free; the shackles that caged his body, heart, and mind shattered like glass.

The Queen elegantly sank down beside him and pulled him into her lap. She cooed to him softly and rubbed her soft hands over his back, “It’s okay now, Jisungie. You’re okay.”

Around them, the First Queen of Levanter was escorted out of the room by Changbin, who was beyond glad to do the honors, while Chan and Minho stood off to the side, watching fondly as Jisung clung to The Queen.

Jisung was a very clingy person, and despite him getting along fantastically with The Queen, he held her at a distance, like he was afraid to get too close to her. Now though, he held her tight as she stroked her fingers through his hair and whispered in his ear that everything was going to be okay.

Jisung had never felt so warm inside. It reached a part of his heart that even his love for Minho hadn't been able to thaw. Is this what it felt like to have a mother? Jisung was soft and mushy and fuzzy inside, and he had never felt safer than in the arms of this woman he’s known all of his life, but never allowed himself to feel connected to. This woman was on his side, willing to give up a centuries-long alliance for him. He hugged her tightly and sobbed; tears and snot and spit probably staining the pretty dress she was wearing, but she didn’t care. She held him just a little tighter.

He remembered all those times when he was a child, and he would burst into tears when it was time for him to return to Levanter after visits to Miroh. He had always hated it in his home country, but he had no other choice. He hoped and he prayed - dreamed of simply staying in Miroh forever. The Queen would always try to soothe him, but he would push her away.

No other adult had ever treated him like he mattered - was only ever soft-hearted towards him if there was something to gain - so he distanced himself, terrified to have this dream ruined. The one where he was safe in Miroh; loved and protected. And now, years later, he was. The Royal Lee Family of Miroh was his family, and there was no denying it - not with how they’ve proven time and time again that they would do anything for him, just like their own two sons.

He’s never been more sure that this was where he belonged.

-

The next day, Jisung had flowers intricately woven into his hair, his makeup was done with precision, and he was dressed up in white robes with gold and maroon accents. The cape draped over his shoulders reached the ground and flared out behind him in a waterfall of white silk and delicate patterns carefully sewn in. There was the slightest hint of shimmer when the light hit it just right, and Jisung barely recognized himself in the mirror as he twisted and turned trying to catch the shine.

He looked up when he saw motion in the mirror, Chan and Changbin standing in the doorway with proud looks on their faces.

“Ready to go, Baby Boy?” Chan asked him, a soft smile on his face showing just the smallest dip of his dimples. There was love and adoration and warmth in his eyes, and Jisung could’ve cried. He nodded and made a small noise of acknowledgement. He turned around and walked towards them, his white shoes making a soft ‘click’ with every step.

“You look so pretty, Jisungie,” Changbin said as he reached forward and pinched his cheek lightly.

Jisung giggled and ducked his head in embarrassment, “Thanks, Hyung.”

Chan and Changbin lead him to the small waiting room and held his hand as they waited for his cue. They heard the doorknob jiggle.

“Good luck,” Chan said with a squeeze to Jisung’s hand.

“Don’t trip,” Changbin laughed.

The doors opened, and thus began the official beginning of Third Prince Han Jisung of Levanter’s new life.