Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Once upon a time, long ago, there was a kingdom that was blessed by the sun.

It was said that in the beginning that there existed a place long ago untouched by shadows and impurities. A land filled with nothing but golden fields that swayed like waves like an ocean in a sea breeze, crystalline rivers that glimmered endlessly under a divine light, and skies so gentle they seemed to cradle the very essence of hope itself within them.

It was a land unlike any other — a land kissed by the sunlight itself.

However, despite the beauty and warmth, the land remained empty, waiting for those worthy enough to call it home. Until one fateful day, two souls stumbled upon this sacred land, lost and battered by the relentless storms, they sought for refuge and desperate for a new place to call home.

As they wandered the land, bearing the harsh pain and burden within their hearts, they soon bore witness to a sight beyond comprehension.

From the heavens above, they watched as a beautiful Goddess descend down from the beautiful skies and down onto the highest peak of the land, shocking them in awe as she introduced herself as Sol, the Goddess of Sun and Light. Her eyes burned like embers in a flame, her voice powerful and strong as it echoed out over the horizon.

She told the two souls that she's been watching them, she watched how they endured the pain and that she sees the unwavering radiance of innocence and purity in their hearts, that stumbling upon this land was a gift for them. So as a gift, she bestowed her divine light onto them, granting them powers and strength to forge the land into something greater, to guide souls to a place filled with warmth and hope.

From that moment forward, the land was no longer nameless and empty.

Chiara was born — a kingdom of warmth and light, dedicated to Sol, and a beacon for all those who sought for peace and freedom.

The two souls who were blessed by Sol became the kingdom's first sovereigns, their bodies aglow and filled with the goddess' magic. As time went by, they welcomed others, those who wandered around searching for sanctuary, those who sought to bask in the lands warmth and raise their loved ones in a better life.

So with the hands that wielded power, kindness, love, and hope, they began to build homes and nurture life expanding across the horizon of the golden fields with homes and gardens while atop of the very peak where Sol first touched down, a grand palace was built as a symbol of the kingdoms divine origin.

And so, with the two souls blessed by the sun goddess, the bloodline continued on with time passing by, generation after generation as the kingdom grew powerfully
and beautifully.

With each new century, each new bloodline, a new ruler — Sol's light and magic flourished within them — a magic unlike any other capable of both creation and destruction, but the royal family swore an oath to use it only for creation, for hope
and love to never disrespect Sol's blessing.

Yet, with such great power, comes with great responsibility.

To ensure that every ruler wielded their magic wisely and never became corrupt in greed or sins of their magic, Sol had gifted the kingdom a scared artifact — a golden scepter with the purest essence of sunlight.

Only the true king or queen of Chiara along with the royal family can wield this scepter, and with it, their power was magnified beyond measure. It became a symbol of leadership and divine right, a symbol of the unbeatable bond between the royal bloodline and the goddess herself, with every coronation of a new king or queen, the scepter ruled.

And so, under the rule of the blessed royal family and guiding sun, Chiara thrived.

For centuries, the kingdom flourished brightly in Sol's name and under the guide of the royal family. Fields remained golden, thriving with life and purity, nurturing health and vegetation while the rivers remained pure, never once tainted with impurities, and the skies never darkened for too long, allowing long radiant days to pass by.

The people lived in peace, the kingdom was at peace with the guide of the rulers who wielded their power with wisdom and restraint.

And as years pass by, there was a prince that was blessed with a dazzling future and heart.

A prince who was, regrettably, the kingdom's greatest headache.

———

tap tap tap tap!

A heavy exhale echoed out through the silent halls, soft yet hurried footsteps bounced off the marble floor as the male made his way down the hallway in a rushed manner, eyes flickering everywhere as he held onto his cloak tighter.

Come on. Come on! Almost there!

He can feel it, the heaviness and warmth and the weight of power right against his chest that made his senses start to blur, but he didn't care. This was a race against time and the guards as he practically ran down the dimly lit hallway, his heart beating louder with every step until he finally caught glimpse of that familiar grand staircase.

Please be awake! I'm not going down alone!

Before he could bolt towards the staircase, he suddenly gasped loudly when he saw two familiar guards pace through the grand hallway — causing him to immediately slam himself against a stone pillar, covering his mouth as he held onto his cloak tighter to hide the dim glow that illuminated through the cloth.

"Did you hear that?" He heard one guard say, causing his heart to drop. "I heard a loud slam, just now."

Shit. shit shit shit!

"I didn't really hear anything," The other guard replied, their tones quiet and curious. "It must be the wind outside or the sounds of our armor."

He wanted to let out a relieved breath, knowing that there's a chance he might be okay and able to rush past the guards soon, but he stayed in place and slowly opened his eyes, waiting for the right moment.

"I guess so. Where are you heading?"

"The garden, that's where the Queen wants me to go."

"Ah, such a beautiful place to be. I'm heading to the weapons room."

The two guards chattered for a little while longer, causing his patience to slowly run thin until he finally heard the heavy footsteps slowly fade away, causing him to peek his head out from the pillar cautiously, only to see the emptiness of the grand hallway, causing him to relax.

Oh my goodness, talk about chatty. He grumbled, immediately rushing towards the grand staircase with precise steps. I should have them demoted for taking so long!

Shaking his head, he brushed that idea off for later and treaded up the stairs, his heart beating louder than ever as he ran down the hallway towards the familiar room — he knew this palace like the back of his hand, every hall and turn, he knew when the guards would come by, that's why needed to act fast.

He only had two minutes until the next guard appeared down this hallway.

The moment the familiar golden door came into view, his eyes widened as he nearly slammed into the wood — pounding against it a bit too loudly and rapidly as his breathing became heavier.

Let me in, let me in let me in! Come on!

His knocks became louder and desperate, frantic urgency coursing through him as he looked over his shoulder, his eyes darting down the corridor as the sounds of heavy clanking armored boots began to grow louder behind him, causing him to clench his jaw tightly as panic slowly creeped in.

Shit! If he's caught now, he'd never hear the end of it from their parents!

Come on! He groaned desperately, pounding on the door louder, he's so close to kicking down this damn door! Huening Kai, I swear to Sol I'm going to kill you!—

Just before he could finish his sentence and plot the right kind of murder against his younger brother, the door soon cracked opened, just wide enough for a pair of wide, confused, puppy-like eyes to peek through.

"Gyu?" Huening Kai muttered, his voice drowsy as if he had just woken up, blinking dumbfoundedly. "What are you doing up so early—"

"Move!" Beomgyu strained out, shoving his way inside before the other could finish, nearly knocking his poor younger brother down in the process, slamming the door shut once he was in and braced himself against the wood, sighing out in relief as he caught his breath that he successfully managed to not get caught by the guards.

"What the hell is wrong with you!?" Huening Kai grumbled, rubbing his wrist to ease the pain as he slowly lifted himself off of the ground. "It's literally almost sunrise and you're over here ruining my beauty sleep!"

"Oh shush your damn whining," Beomgyu scoffed, rolling his eyes as he pushed himself off of the door frame, shrugging off his heavy cloak as he walked towards the center of the room. "Anyways, I wanted to test something, and who else to show than my darling little brother, huh?"

"I'm scared." Huening Kai deadpanned, every time Beomgyu wanted to "test" or "show" him something, it always ends in disaster.

An offended expression washed all over Beomgyu's face when he heard that response, glaring at the younger angrily before he looked down at the cloth in his hand. He could feel it, the weight and power that coursed through the item he had... borrowed... soared through his veins so heavily, it was addicting.

"What is that?" He heard Huening Kai ask, clearly looking at the covered item in his hold. "What the hell did you bring into my room, Gyu?! If it's another sun-lion I'm going to—"

"Oh relax!" Beomgyu scoffed, turning his body to face the other who already looked paranoid. "It's nothing bad! But do you remember earlier during our borrringgg lecture about Chiara's history, Ms. Selene mentioned the scepter?"

"...Uhm... yeah? Everyone knows about the scepter and its story."

"Exactly!" Beomgyu exclaimed, his eyes glinting with a strange... mischievousness. "And then do you know how she said that only the "true king" can wield the scepter and then she had the audacity to say I'm not ready?! That she's implying I'm weak?!"

Huening Kai blinked a couple of times, man all he wanted to do was just sleep in since it was finally a day where they had no classes or boring lessons, but now here he was — forced to listen to his brother ramble on and on about the lecture Ms. Selene gave earlier, god was he annoyed. "I mean, she's not wrong, your coronation day isn't even near!"

Beomgyu let out another irritated scoff, he was really expecting his brother to say the opposite, he wanted to hear the nice words of "Oh, Gyu! My fantastic, amazing, precious, wonderful, and oh so powerful, older brother! You aren't weak at all, matter of fact, you're fit for the throne right now!" But instead, he said the opposite, ugh whatever!

"That doesn't matter, coronation or not, but anyways it was irritating me all day so I decided to prove her wrong!" Beomgyu continued on, taking a step back as his grip around the clothed item tightened, a smirk frowning on his face. "And we know how wrong Ms. Selene can be, like come on! Saying all that to the next heir to the throne is absolutely disrespectful so—"

"Wait..." Huening Kai interrupted him, his eyes flickering down towards the clothed item as the gears in his head began to turn. "Beomgyu, don't tell me... you didn't..."

"— How rude! Don't interrupt me!" Beomgyu scoffed, ignoring the other's wary tone and frightened expression before he held up the clothed item. "As I was saying, I'm going to prove her wrong, and we know how powerful I am already! So I decided to go into the treasure room and just..."

"You didn't!" Huening Kai shrieked, but his reaction only made the cocky expression on Beomgyu's face grow stronger. "Please tell me you didn't—"

Before he could finish his sentence, Beomgyu smiled widely and ripped the cloak off of the item he was holding, throwing it onto the ground as he held up the prized jewel up high, as if he were presenting it to the entire world, causing Huening Kai to freeze, his heart practically dropping out of his asshole.

"No- no no no no!" Huening Kai began to freak out, rushing over towards his brother who immediately took a cautious step back. "Beomgyu! What are you doing— You can't be serious! How did you even get the scepter?!"

"It wasn't that hard, actually," He replied, smiling brightly as if he discovered his own new personal treasure, lifting the scepter higher as he admired it — the power and energy that coursed through him was so... addicting. "Anyways, Ms. Selene is always telling me that I'm not ready, father too. I'm going to prove them wrong."

"The scepter isn't a tool to be played with, Gyu!" Huening Kai panicked, trying to grab the scepter from his brother's hand who only avoided his action, scowling angrily. "Come on! Let's put it back, you've got to hold it, isn't that enough? I don't want to get in trouble because of you!"

"Stop being a big baby!" Beomgyu scoffed, already becoming irritated by the other's constant nagging, gosh he should've just done this in his own room. "We won't get in trouble, trust me! I know what I'm doing and my powers are stable! I was praised and blessed by Sol herself to wield this scepter! I'm obviously going to show everyone that I can be king, that I'm the most powerful Choi ever!"

"Do you know how insane you sound?" Huening Kai groaned, rubbing his face — god, did he hate it when Beomgyu would become blinded by power and such. "Please! Put it back before something goes wrong! You know it's forbidden for you to wield the scepter until your coronation day!"

A soft yelp escaped Beomgyu when Huening Kai charged forward, trying to snatch the scepter away from him, but just in time he managed to jump back and spin slightly to avoid the males attacks, only irritating his brother more as he sighed nonchalantly, as if this whole thing wasn't putting their royal titles on the line.

"You're literally overreacting, Hyuka," He scoffed, his grip tightening around the scepter that was just begging to be used. "Who cares about coronation day? I'm the future king regardless, might as well get some early use into it? Nobody will know!"

"You're insufferable, Gyu!" Huening Kai exclaimed, backing up when he noticed how the elder was preparing to imbed his own magic energy into the scepter. "You know damn well you can't handle it like father does, so please! Just... return it back to the treasure room, I won't tell mother I swear! I-I'll even do your chores for a month!"

After hearing those desperate offers, Beomgyu raised an eyebrow and actually took it into consideration. The terrified expression that was plastered all over Huening Kai's face did make him feel bad, and the offer to have his chores done by someone else was tempting, but he had to prove to at least someone that he wasn't weak. That he was prepared for the throne right away despite his coronation being in five years.

But... he was actually second guessing himself.

The scepter of Sol was a sacred artifact, passed down generations after generations through Chiara's royal family line. Only the true king or queen could wield it, but here it was... golden light spilling from its pretty crystal core as divine energy crackled through the air, like lightning waiting to strike.

The energy, the power, the light — it was all so addicting.

It made him want more.

Beomgyu hummed softly, holding the scepter upright as he ran a finger down its golden hilt. "Yeah, you're right..." He muttered, making the younger relax for a moment. "Maybe I'm not ready, maybe I need more time to practice my magic..."

"That's right, Gyu!" Huening Kai clasped his hands together brightly, his eyes shining like the sun. "Come on! If we leave right now, we'll be able to avoid mother—"

"But think of how amazing the spells will look with the scepter enhancing it!" Beomgyu cut him off, his eyes glimmering with mischief as the thoughts soared through his mind. "Like have you seen father wield this thing? He's unstoppable! Come on, Hyuka! I just want to see what it feels like!" He grinned wildly, twirling the scepter. "I'll even let you have a chance at it!"

Huening Kai gawked at him in pure disbelief, yep this was it, his brother was officially the most dumbest and worst person to ever touch land in Chiara. "The scepter isn't a toy, Gyu! I know you've always strived to be the best, and that you've admired father's skills, but you're not ready!" He cautiously took a step forward, a bit terrified. "And you know I can't use the scepter like that, I'm unfit for it, I don't have the powers! So stop trying to play around with the scepter you stole and—"

"Excuse me?!" Beomgyu interrupted him, his voice cracking as his tone was loud and full of pure offense. "Stole the scepter? What kind of heir would I be if I stole something so precious?!" He scoffed, holding the scepter close to his chest like he was cradling a baby. (In his eyes, he sorta was!). "I just simply... borrowed it! Yeah! Borrowed."

Huening Kai stared at him, his eye twitching from how absolutely done he was with his older brother. Oh Sol, if you can hear him, strike Beomgyu down with the most hottest sunbeam ever. "You're going to get executed if you're caught with it! Now stop being stupid and let's go!"

A loud snort escaped from the elder after what he heard, the words sounding like an absolute joke in his ears as he laughed loudly. "Me? Executed? Who's going to execute me, huh? Maybe Sunoo and his pathetic knight skills? Oh, you're making me laugh!" He snickered, thinking about that weak knight that Huening Kai favored. "I'm literally the next king to Chiara."

"Leave Sunoo out of this!" Huening Kai scowled.

"Woah woah, calm down!" Beomgyu laughed, wiping his tears as he smirked slightly. "I'm not trying to make fun of your little lover boy, he's a good knight when there's a full moon!"

"Oh my god you're so—" Huening Kai paused, feeling his anger reach a boiling point, but before he could... explode, he inhaled a deep, calm and situated breath, mentally telling himself to relax. Think of puppies, sun lions, Sol! "— ugh! Whatever, but seriously, let's return the scepter! What if mother walks in on us, huh? You know she doesn't have the decency to knock on our doors anymore!"

The thought of their mother barging into the room unannounced like she's always done made Beomgyu pause, just for a second. Oh gosh, their mother, Queen Aera, was a kind and wise ruler, shining bright and powerfully just like the sun above. But oh in Sol's name and legacy, was she terrifying when angry.

The last time he had crossed a line (which was about a week ago, but in all fairness, it wasn't even his fault! Someone had managed to scoop up all the flame frogs and dumped them all over her bed, it made him so angry when she accused him!) his mother had punished him to extra hours of studies and ember sword training, the two things he hates doing the most! He nearly lost all ability in his limbs after that harsh punishment! God does he hate labor.

The chances were slim, but still, he wasn't about to back down now. He had stayed up all night waiting to sneak into the treasure room, grab the scepter without alarms going off, and run to sneak into Huening Kai's room. He wasn't about to let his hard work all be for nothing now!

"Just one spell! I'll just use the most simple one, summoning a mini sun orb!" Beomgyu smiled, it was a spell that's effortless! Easily taught at a young age, the user just focuses their energy and summons a small orb that illuminates a light so bright, it can light up an entire forest! "How hard could it possibly be? It's just a scepter with my powers!"

"That's not even—"

Before Huening Kai could finish his sentence, a brilliant flare of golden light burst brightly from the crystal core, their eyes widening as Beomgyu began to will some of his magic into the scepter, feeling the atmosphere around them change as the air began to crackle with divine energy, which sent a shiver down his spine from how fast the scepter reacted to just a little bit of magic being poured into it.

For a moment, Beomgyu froze, the golden light illuminated his face perfectly as he stared at the golden orb that was swirling with power. This was it, this was his moment to prove that he can wield the scepter of Sol properly, that wasn't weak or chaotic like the others always said behind his back.

"Beomgyu! I don't have a good feeling about this!" Huening Kai cried out, covering his mouth, feeling suffocated with the amount of power swirling through the air. "Stop it!"

Beomgyu glanced up towards his brother, his eyes softening when he saw how much he was struggling under the pressure of the power swirling around them before glancing down at the scepter that was glowing brighter with every second — for a moment, he was considering on just cutting the spell off, but he was already this far. Nothing has gone wrong yet, and if Huening Kai couldn't handle some amplified magic then that's on him.

So with a determined glare, he breathed in softly and tightened his grip around the scepter, muttering out the words: "Sol, guide me through the darkness."

Right as the words left his mouth, a loud groan began to echo out within the room, causing the both of them to yelp as the scepter began to tremble heavily in Beomgyu's hands, their eyes widening as the light began to brighten with each and every second.

Something was wrong.

"Beomgyu! Let the damn scepter go!" Huening Kai exclaimed loudly, feeling overwhelmed and suffocated.

"I can't! I already enchanted out the spell!" Beomgyu replied, holding onto the scepter tighter which felt heavier in his hands. "I-I swear I know what I'm—"

Just before he could finish his sentence, a loud groan echoed out in the room once again, causing his eyes to widen when the scepter in his hands began to feel like it was burning him. Oh shit. Oh shit!

In that moment, the floors began to shake and the walls groaned, cracks splintering up the stone as the chandelier above swung wildly, throwing fractured beams of light across the room as the scepter began to shake even more in his hands — the crystal glowing brighter and brighter.

This wasn't right! He swore he used the right spell!

"Beomgyu!" Huening Kai cried out, finally lunging forward as he grabbed the scepter, his hands tightening around the shaft as he pulled on it. "Stop it! Let go of it! You clearly did something wrong!"

"I did not!" Beomgyu exclaimed angrily, holding onto the scepter tighter than ever like it was some sort of life line. "I-I know what I'm doing! Just let go before you get hurt!"

"No you don't!"

"Yes I do!"

Amongst their bickering, the scepter began to overload with unstable magic, jerking harshly between them, but neither of them realized it as they began to wrestle for control, throwing everything off balance as a final surge of energy surged through the artifact.

"I said get. the. fuck. off!" Beomgyu strained every word, growling harshly before he pushed the male with so much strength, it caused Huening Kai to fall back and the scepter to fall right out of their hands — rolling towards the center of the room.

"Oh shit! Hyuka, are you—"

Before he could help his younger brother up and check if he was okay, a bright sun beam shot through the crystal orb and towards the ceiling like a falling star in reverse, their eyes widening as the beam of light made contact with the ceiling and—

BOOM!

A loud ear deafening ring explosion echoed out through the chamber, debris soon raining down on them in deadly chunks. The sheer force of the blast was enough to send the entire palace into a tremble as things began to crumble and fall right down onto them.

In that very moment, time itself seemed to slow down as Beomgyu's breath hitched, immediately running towards his younger brother and throwing himself down over him, holding him tight and close as he raised his hand and quickly summoned a barrier of pure light around them.

It was a simple spell, really, but a shield began to envelop around them, energy crackling around them as he closed his eyes tightly and strained out a pained breath as he felt all the heavy weight of the collapsing debris fall onto them, causing him to old onto his younger brother tighter.

Fuck fuck fuck! He groaned, mentally beating himself up as he focused on protecting him and Hyuka. What did I do wrong?! I swear I said spoke the right spell! It was supposed to work! I'm the future king!

Beomgyu gritted his teeth angrily, only closing his eyes as the disaster all around them lasted for ten seconds more until one loud thud echoed out, signifying the end of it all.

For a moment, there was nothing but silence, only the sounds of their heavy panicked breaths echoed out as the shield around them slowly faltered before disappearing into nothing but small glimmering particles.

Slowly sitting up, he looked around the room and waved a hand to get rid of the dust surrounding them, his breathing ragged as he saw the scepter in the center of the room— unharmed and not damaged by the destruction around them.

But when he turned to look at the destruction around them, his heart dropped down to his stomach. Sunlight streamed through where the ceiling used to be, golden rays of the suns awakening peered through, which was always a good thing, beautiful in fact, but in this moment it was sickening. It shone down on the absolute ruins of Huening Kai's bedroom.

Shattered stone and broken wood lay in heaps around them. The bed was already buried under a mountain of debris while the walls were scorched black from the blast. Oh god, even the pretty stained glass mural of the kingdom's symbol was destroyed!

"Shit..." He muttered out, staring at the once grand ceiling that was complete... gone. "Um... you did always mention that you wanted a room expansion and more sun—"

"MY FUCKING ROOM!" Huening Kai cried loudly, shooting up as his hands began to shake from the destruction around them. "WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU, GYU?!"

Beomgyu winced at the younger's loud tone, gosh did he have a special talent to make his voice just boom, but quickly brushing that thought off, he swallowed heavily — guilt washing over him like a tidal wave.

He really did try, but staring at Huening Kai's horrified and devastated expression made his confidence falter, his smile shaky as he shrugged. "Uhm... oops?"

"OOPS?!"

Before Huening Kai could scream out all the profanities building up within him, the sound of rapid footsteps thundered from the hallway, like a crowd of boars were taking aim as the door slammed open, revealing a crowd of shocked faces and two very familiar ones that Beomgyu was dreading to see early in the morning.

Fuck. He's screwed.

"What in Sol's name?!"

"Oh my goodness!"

"The younger princes chamber!"

The voices in the background began to blend together as their parents stood there stunned, staring at the absolute disaster in their youngest sons room before they glanced down at the two princes who sat there stunned and terrified.

It wasn't until a sharp, commanding voice, rang through the chambers.

"Choi Beomgyu!"

Beomgyu flinched as his face began to flush a bright shade of red — his father, King Jaehyun, strode into the remains of the room, his golden pajama robes glowing brightly like a shining disco ball as he ushered towards the scepter while his mother, Queen Aera, followed in and quickly ran towards her two children, crouching down in front of Huening Kai to examine him, she was silent, but her expression screamed disappointment.

"F-Father!" Beomgyu strained out, shakily standing up. "I can explain—"

Before he could finish his sentence, the king held up his hand — a warning for him to not even finish the lame excuse that he conjured up. Only gently and carefully picking up the scepter of sol as he examined it, relieved to find that there were no damage or impurities caused upon in.

The room was filled with tensed air, feeling suffocating as Beomgyu shuffled around awkwardly, his instincts telling him to run as fast as he could.

It wasn't until his father finally turned around and stared at him, causing his heart to drop as he immediately looked down — his eyes burning like the heart of the sun.

"Throne room. Now."

...well...

Maybe he just made a tiny… mistake.

Beomgyu always loved the throne room.

It was the most magnificent and beautiful place in the entire palace (well, besides his room of course. It stretched far and wide, and was always bathed in ethereal golden light that streamed through towering stained-glass windows, casting vibrant patterns all over the polished marble floors, perfect to admire while dancing.

Meanwhile, up on the ceiling there were banners that showcased their powers, each of them embroidered with the sigil of the royal family: the blazing crest of Sol herself, a divine sun.

He also admired the grand chandelier in the middle of it all, the size as big as the moon itself as it sparkled above. Its crystals refracting gold and amber hues all across the chamber which was even more breathtaking during royal balls, when the entire room would glow with music and lively chatter.

But oh, even though all of it was beautiful, they didn't compare to Beomgyu's most favorite spot which was at the far end of the chamber, where five grand steps led up to the thrones of the king and queen of Chiara — beautiful thrones of gold and ivory, symbols of absolute power.

That throne, was where he was meant to be, it was his destiny.

That was where he will sit one day, on the throne ruling with power with the scepter in his hands.

But right now, he unfortunately was not sitting near the throne to fulfill his desire.

Instead, he stood at the bottom of the steps in complete utter shame and embarrassment. His heartbeat pounding loud and wildly in his ears as he stared up at his mother and father, sitting before him as he felt all his irritation and anger bubble up, causing his eye to twitch.

For the first time ever, he hated the throne room.

The warm light no longer felt comforting, the banners overhead felt heavy and looming like a blade ready to fall down onto him. And the chandelier above did nothing to soften the crushing weight of the moment, all of his once favorite things made him feel bitter.

The expressions on his parents face were ticking him off more and more with every passing second — sharp, cold, filled with disappointment — it made his stomach twist and churn with an emotion he couldn't define, but could definitely take it out on them with a few profanities and such.

Off to the side, stood Huening Kai who looked stuffed as ever, his hands clasped in front of him as he stared at Beomgyu with a sorrowful look, his face pale— oh man, why did it look like he was about to cry?

Ugh, he shouldn't even be here in the first place! What he did was just one tiny little mistake! Like... what he did with the Scepter of Sol aka the very artifact he had foolishly wielded and handled was totally not his fault! But now here he was, forced to face that damn scepter as it rested in his father's grip, pulsing faintly as if exhausted from the chaos it had caused.

That damn stick is exhausted? He's even more exhausted! Talk about unfair.

Beomgyu clenched his jaw tightly as his hands balled up into fists, his nails digging into the skin of his palm as he grounded himself — refusing to run away. He had been yelled at plenty of times before... but this... this was different, he can just feel it.

Like okay, yeah sure, he kinda accidentally exploded his younger brother's ceiling and caused mass destructions, but that's honestly a mistake! With just a little magic and help of servants, it'll look grand and new in no time!—

"You absolute idiot!" His mother's voice, Queen Aera, rang through the chamber, sharp as a blade as her expression was in a deep scowl. "Do you have any idea what you've done?! This is- this is ridiculous, Beomgyu!"

Yep, there it was, the scolding. Oh Sol, if you can hear him, rip his ears off with a sunbeam.

Beomgyu opened his mouth, a scowl washing over his face unknowingly. "It was just an accident! I wanted to test out—"

"An accident? Test out?" His mother interrupted him, her tone in utter disbelief, she practically looked as if she were ready to destroy the whole palace. "That's unbelievable! The scepter is not a toy, Beomgyu! It is not some accessory for you to parade around just because you feel like it! It's a weapon of immense power — one that only a true king may wield!"

Okay, now she was just being over dramatic! He would never ever, in Sol's name and honor, use the scepter as some sort of toy or accessory! She was throwing this whole thing out of proportion, it was just one tiny small mistake! And that talk about only a true king may wield the scepter? Absolute bullshit.

He's gotten yelled at plenty of times, and he mostly tunes them out since he's obviously the crowned prince and has the right to do anything! He has all the power in the whole kingdom! But this damn scolding was pissing him off!

His mother continued on and on, the words blurring together as he composed himself — trying his best not to just explode within that very moment. He glanced at his father, who sat there silent but disappointed, he never dared to speak up when the queen was angry, that was a death sentence itself if he ever cut her off, it makes him wonder who really wields the most power in this kingdom.

He then glanced over towards Huening Kai, his younger brother had barely spoken a word since they'd been dragged into the throne room. Maybe he was still devastated and processing the fact that his room was destroyed, or maybe he felt guilty that his favorite older brother was getting yelled at, who knows?

Man, the urge to just roll his eyes was strong, but the moment Huening Kai met his eyes, he felt a small adrenaline wave rush through him — this was his moment! He can ask his younger brother for help and—

"Don't you dare look at your younger brother for help!" His mother's voice boomed loudly, snapping through his trance as he quickly looked back at her. "He is not the one who disrespected his role, you are!"

Beomgyu felt his confidence shatter slightly, his eye twitching but quickly covered it all up with an indignant scoff. "Mother, you're being overdramatic! I'm the heir to the throne, am I not?" He crossed his arms, frustration burning strong in his chest. "I'll be the king soon enough, so what's the harm in practicing a small spell? I didn't even chant it wrong! Maybe something's wrong with the scepter or... I dunno."

The king, Choi Jaehyun, let out a sharp pathetic laugh filled with mockery. "Soon?" He repeated his words, amusement laced with disbelief. "Beomgyu, you won't be king for at least five more years! Not until you turn twenty-five, so this whole excuse of yours is useless and doesn't take away from the fact you've disrespected rules of our own kingdom! How would the townsfolk react if they find out their future king is... a nut job!"

A nut job? Seriously? Man, his father should've stayed silent, nobody asked for him to talk. "I am strong now! We all know this! I've mastered- erm, perfected my powers by the age of fifteen! I'm ready for this!" He strained out, pressing a hand against his chest to somehow prove himself more worthy.

It was now Queen Aera's turn to laugh at her son's words, a disbelieving smile growing on her face. "Mastered your powers? Please, you're barely near professional! And yes, you are strong, Gyu but strength here is not the issue!" Her tone was low and warning as a scowl grew on her face. "Your arrogance is. Your reckless disregard for your responsibilities! The throne is not a game, yet time and time again you behave as if your sacred duty is nothing but a damn play thing to amuse yourself with!"

Okay, if he thought they were being overdramatic before, then they're definitely being overdramatic now. They're seriously treating this like he murdered someone from the neighboring kingdom or something! Never has he ever treated his responsibilities as... "games" or "amusements", he was serious about being the next king to Chiara and always strived for the best!

But of course, staying on strict prince duties was boring! So he has to get a little fun and creative somehow... so now that he thinks about it... okay maybe he does disregard some responsibilities but not the important ones! Chiara and the scepter were precious to him! The kingdom needs to love him!

However, being accused of all of this made his vision flash red, the flames of anger ignited stronger in his chest. "That's not true and you know it—"

"Oh, but it is true!" His mother finally snapped, her voice raising as it filled with throne room with a suffocating force, or maybe her voice was just suffocating. "Your powers are unstable. You are unstable! This is the whole reason why the scepter didn't work for you because you're reckless! And hell! Worst of it all, you refuse to listen to us! To your advisors, even to your own brother who was the only one with the right sense in mind to try and stop you from damage! But too late now!"

Every word was like a harsh strike to his chest, no matter how badly he wanted to deny it all, he knew she was right. But the words stung far more than he wanted to admit, only clenching his teeth tightly as he glared at the ground, wanting to bury himself right then and there.

A soft sigh escaped from his father, who was rubbing his temple to ease the headache that formed. "This must be our fault? right?" He muttered, disappointed. "We spoiled him too much, now look where that got us. A rouge future king, unfit."

Those words struck hard, striking a sensitive spot within him as he gasped loudly and snapped his head up, anger flaring in his chest as he scowled darkly. "Unfit?! You're bluffing! What now, huh? Are you going to dethrone me?!" His voice was sharp, filled with bitterness. "Choose someone else to be your perfect little heir? Choose Hyuka? Come on! He can't even step close to the throne like I can and you know it!"

Huening Kai's eyes widened after hearing that, and for a moment, a pained expression washed over his face as he looked down towards the ground — his bangs covering his face as small tears wielded up in his eyes.

Silence soon fell over the throne room as his parents stared at him in shock at what he said, and after a bit his anger slowly decreased as the realization of what he said dawned upon him, making his chest tighten as he looked over towards Huening Kai.

No, shit! He fucked up.

Beomgyu let out a shaky breath, ready to puke out an apology before he caught glimpse of his mother's expression that shifted from angry to a calm, calculating one. And the sight made his heart drop.

No.

No. No no no.

He knew that look.

That calm, calculated expression where she seemed at peace was the world was when she was thinking of something far worse than just yelling — oh no no no, she was thinking of a punishment.

And all of her punishments were the worst! Spend hours sword fighting until his limbs were jelly, spend hours in the garden swarmed by bees and disgusting bugs, or worse — clean the palace! He hated it!

His thoughts began to swirl around with panic, ready to run away at this very moment until his mother finally spoke.

"You are not fit at all to be king," She said coldly. "A true Chiara king is filled with kindness and warmth, determination and grace. You are none of that, you are unfit for this role. You used our scepter of hope, a blessing of Sol's for destruction when we vowed to use it for peace and creation."

Beomgyu's breath hitched, his stomach sinking with that dreadful feeling as every single word sank into his chest like a sickening disease. It hurt him mentally and physically to hear this, when his entire life had been centered around becoming king.

"So you will learn," She continued, voice stern and grounded as the room fell even more silent. "Since you refuse to understand the weight of your responsibility, I will make you understand it."

He felt his stomach start to twist and churn in a sickening manner, that twisted gut feeling forming as he stared at her in disbelief, his bottom lip trembling. "W-What does that mean?"

His mother stared at him for a moment, as if she had a second thought just now before shaking it away, straightening her posture. "It means, Beomgyu," She said, her down softer yet stayed harsh as ever. "That you are to be banished from Chiara."

The words echoed out in the throne room, causing everyone to fall silent as their eyes widened in absolute disbelief as to what the queen had just said.

Beomgyu, however, stood there in disbelief and wondered if he was dreaming. That what was happening now was a figment of his imagination, but the longer he stood there the more reality set in, and that's when it felt like a knife being twisted deep into his gut.

Banished...?

"What...?" He croaked out, his voice trembling. "B-Banished?! To where?!"

"Why the Earth realm of course!" She declared, making him physically recoil in disgust. He's always heard things about the Earth realm and how it was disgusting there. "Away from the luxuries of the palace, away from your title. You will live as a mortal, or a mere commoner — without power, without status — until you prove yourself worthy to return. That you've changed for the better."

Beomgyu felt his heart hammering against his chest, ready to jump and leave him bleeding out until he's nothing but a cold corpse. He couldn't believe what he was hearing right now, his mother's punishment had never been that harsh! He's so certain he didn't go that far, it was honestly a little mistake!

He felt his mouth opening and closing like a stunned fish, his breathing becoming heavier as all the worst possible scenarios flashed through his head if he were to be in the throne room.

"You can't be serious, mother!"

"Oh, I am serious. Dead serious."

Beomgyu's brows furrowed deeply in anger and disbelief, glancing towards his father who had been watching the exchange with quiet disapproval and shock at the queens decision while Huening Kai was stunned frozen.

For a moment, he was ready to summon a spell that'll explode this whole throne room, but the queen wasn't finished with her lecture.

Queen Aera soon raised her hand and summoned a golden wisp of light into her palm, it pulsed and flickered beautifully with that golden hue as it began to shape into a crystal pendant which was absolutely beautiful.

"As an additional punishment, I will seal your powers inside of this," She held up the crystal pendant higher. "Your magic is to be hidden somewhere in the Earth Realm, and when you change for the better it will be returned to you — but for now, you will be powerless."

No, this can't be happening.

Powerless...? Powerless?!

This can't happen! He can't be powerless, he's supposed to be the strongest king in the future! He depended on his powers!

"You can't do this, mother!" He cried out, angry and desperate. "This isn't fair!"

"The world isn't fair, Beomgyu,"
She scoffed, staring at him with cold eyes. "You will learn humility. You will learn what it means to struggle, to live without privilege."

"Mother, please! This is bull—"

"The decision is final!"

Huening Kai, who had been silent all this time, soon recovered from his shock and stepped forward, his expression worried and panicked. "Wait!" He said quickly, eyes darting between their parents and Beomgyu. "This- Isn't this too much? Banishment?"

Queen Aera glanced over towards him, her expression faltering for a moment before she shook her head, set and determined with her decision. "It is necessary and final, I am not taking back my word."

Beomgyu felt sick and lightheaded, as if he had been betrayed as he looked over towards his father, searching for any sign of help or hesitation — but the king merely sighed, rubbing his brow as he waved him off. "Go pack your things Beomgyu, you are set to leave by sunset."

The entire world began to blur, a loud ring rang out through his ears as he stared at his parents in disbelief, unsure whether to feel angry or betrayed at this point, maybe both? "You're really doing this?! Really? You're banishing your eldest son to Earth because of one damn mistake?!"

His mother didn't answer him, barely glancing in his direction as she turned away.

Huening Kai looked helpless, wishing he could do something but he knew there was nothing he could do. Once his mother was set on something, it was final.

Beomgyu scoffed in pure anger, feeling helpless as a series of emotions bubbled up in his chest — anger, humiliation, disbelief.

But no matter how many angry outbursts and profanities he spews, no matter how hard he begs, he knew he could do nothing.

So with a defeated breath, he groaned loudly and turned on his heel, storming out of the throne room as his entire world crashed down around him.

He was to be banished to the Earth realm at sunset.

This fucking sucks.

˗ˏˋ ꒰ ঌ · 𖤓 · ໒ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

The hour of sunset arrived almost immediately.

Well, maybe the time was just passing by fast to spite Beomgyu because of his new punishment that was set to happen soon.

For majority of the day he's been sulking in his room, which is now going to be used as Huening Kai's sanctuary while the younger's old room gets fixed for the time being and while he's away, it made him so fucking bitter.

He wasn't bitter that his brother was using his room though, no no no, he can stay in there for as long as he wants but... being sent away to that damn grimy Earth where he's heard nothing but bad talk about it?

Countless stories and tales circulate through the palace and kingdom, even kingdoms far from here — but the most tales he's heard was about how Earth was a flourishing realm filled with life and beauty until mortals who destroy and ruin everything tarnished that beauty! Like they even had something called a hot.... dog...?

Who even burns a dog?!

He could be doing so much more right now with his life like practicing his magic further, or even practicing how to dance better in those heavy royal robes he despises or even tend to the garden with the sunflowers and persimmon's tree! But nope, here he was about to experiencing the worst time of his life.

Sol, strike me down dead before I go to Earth, please.

"Gyu-ah!"

Beomgyu's head snapped up near immediately when he heard his name being called, glancing down at the bag filled with the necessities he needs in order to survive and not look like a bum on Earth before looking over towards the door frame where he saw his younger brother stand.

Neither of them said anything, they didn't really have to.

But nonetheless, Huening Kai stepped inside his room and walked over towards him, glancing at his bag with a sorrowful look. "I-I..." He paused, his breath trembling. "I'm sorry, Gyu... I didn't think she would—"

"Everything would've been fine if you didn't try snatching the scepter from my hands," Beomgyu cut him off, his tone coming out harsher than he'd intended, but oh well. "I had the spell under control, it was just... taking its time to warm up to new hands."

Huening Kai pursed his lips tightly, a frown growing as he stared at his brother in disbelief, who was placing the full blame on him again. "Okay, I'll admit trying to grab the scepter was wrong, but we both know this is also your fault, Beomgyu!"

"Oh, how is it my fault?"

The expression that washed over the younger's face just screamed "seriously?" but he just inhaled deeply and shook his head. "It was so... obvious you weren't ready for Sol's scepter. It amplifies the magic when it's stable, and like mother said you're... unstable—"

"So you're saying I deserve to be banished to Earth?" Beomgyu cut him off, his expression turning cold and bitter. "You're saying that this entire thing is my fault? That i'm too weak? Blindlessly agreeing with mother who isn't even originally from this kingdom!—"

"You know that's not what I meant!" Huening Kai cut him off, staring at him in disbelief that he just spoke rudely of their mother once more. "I don't- I-I don't want you to be banished to Earth, believe me, Gyu. But I-I... like you said earlier, I'm no where near powerful to be close to the throne."

The anger that blinded Beomgyu so foolishly faltered just a little when he heard those words, his expression softening just a little as he sighed. What he said in the throne room earlier was completely out of line, he will admit that. But it was true, who else would be king if he were gone? He's the eldest and the closest to the bloodline.

"I..." He paused, the words 'I'm sorry' lingered on the tip of his tongue, but refused to come out. It made him frustrated, he always had such a hard time apologizing to people. "You... you know I didn't mean what I said earlier, but know this isn't your fault, entirely."

Huening Kai's saddened expression lightened up just a little, a small smile that was filled with warmth and fondness grew on his lips as he ushered forward. "Here! Let me help you pack, I don't think the human realm requires so many sun shards— I hope you're not trying to kill anyone, Gyu."

"They're for self defense."

"Uhm, yeah... let's just remove these... you won't be gone for so long! I swear, mother will probably send you back home after a day, so don't worry!"

I hope she does. Beomgyu frowned, the thought of being in the Earth realm for more than a day sent shivers down his spine. She can't survive without me, the kingdom adores me. They'll be nothing without me, their crowned prince. God. This irritates him so much.

For the next ten to fifteen minutes, the both of them spent time arranging the best outfits for the Earth realm to show off to the powerless mortals and some trinkets to remind him of home, and Huening Kai, the absolute sweetheart he is, managed to sneak in a bag of gold coins for currency so Beomgyu doesn't starve there along with three papers to write letters to him, imbedded with magic that will be sent to him right away.

At least there's one good capable person in the castle, someone who wasn't him.

After that, the both of them gathered his things and walked out of his room — Beomgyu taking one last glance at his familiar sanctuary before he sorrowfully forced himself to look away, following his brother down the grand staircase and to the throne room where his unfortunate fate awaits.

With every step towards the throne room, Beomgyu felt more sick by the second. Maybe he should tell his parents he's sick and cannot go to Earth because it'll kill him! Then they'll certainly have no king, or maybe he should break his own leg so he's all helpless and can get others to do his work! They'll have mercy on him!

But all of those thoughts and ideas shattered the moment he walked into the throne room and saw his parents standing in the middle waiting for him — his heart dropping down to his stomach when he saw the massive golden portal swirling around in the floor, causing him to become more nauseous than before.

Traveling through realms was an honor, a special skill to have in the royal family so they could visit other kingdoms or lands to see what they had to offer, to build alliances. But here he was, the first ever Choi to have a portal be used for banishment. Now this was just embarrassing! His grandparents would be so angry with him, and oh gosh, what would goddess Sol think?

Man, he really doesn't want to do this anymore.

Beomgyu took a deep breath, catching glimpse of the other side of the portal, his eyes widening in slight fear when he saw nothing but darkness — but he hurriedly covered it all up with an angry scowl as he approached his mother who forced him with the same cold expression she had worn in the throne room earlier, talk about petty.

Meanwhile, his father stood a few paces behind, his arms crossed while he watched the whole ordeal with a weary gaze. Talk about king of Chiara, doing nothing to defend his heir! Is he really the king? Or is it just a stand in title while the queen of Chiara is the one who really rules the land? Ugh this is so stupid!

Huening Kai gave him one last pitiful look before taking stance near their father, shifting uneasily as he was clearly torn about what was going to happen, if only things turned out differently and his rooftop didn't explode because of an overpowered and overheated sunbeam!

"I do hope you find a nice safe sanctuary when you're in the Earth realm, Beomgyu," His mother spoke up, her tone powerful yet calm — but her words made him feel bitter. "This is a lesson you need to learn, not everything can be in your favor in Chiara."

Beomgyu swallowed hard, his throat turning dry by the second. This wasn't fair, sanctuary and safety? All of those was here, his entire world was here — Chiara, the palace, the sunlight that wrapped around and kissed his skin with warmth and power. He couldn't leave now, not when everything was... was...

"Mother," He muttered out, his voice hoarse and weak, his grip around his bags tightening. "I get it, okay? I swear I won't cause anymore trouble! I-I'll— I'll attend my lessons a-and be less of an idiot! Just don't send me away."

Queen Aera's gaze softened when she heard those pleading words, now moving away from her spot as she approached Beomgyu and gently placed her hands on his shoulders, squeezing them tightly in reassurance — as if she were trying to tell him that everything is okay.

"I know, Gyu," She said softly, smiling warmly which he always adored. "I know you won't cause anymore trouble here."

For a brief moment, hope flickered within his chest, his eyes lightening up as he smiled brightly. This was it! He's finally staying home.

"But you still have a lesson to learn."

Wait, what?!—

Before he could process what she had just said, Queen Aera suddenly pushed him backwards, forcing him to fall right through the portal.

"AHHHHHHH!" He screamed loudly, his body being swallowed up by the golden light as he fell into the void, his eyes widening as a storm of emotions swirled through him when he realized that his mother had just betrayed him.

So many thoughts and angry emotions swirled through him like a storm as a scream ripped out from his throat once more, hanging onto his bag as he felt his eyes water up from the pressure and sickening feeling of free falling so fast.

It wasn't until he slightly looked up and his breath hitched, his eyes widening when he saw the sight of tall beautiful structures in front of him, expanding throughout the horizons as the land was covered in dull light, as if the stars above had came down from the sky and rested on the land.

It was all so beautiful, maybe it wasn't so bad at—

THUD!

"FUCK!" He screamed loudly when he had hit the ground, hard. Ow ow ow ow! Talk about safe landing?! Could've sent a damn cloud at the bottom for me! Oh shit, I think my ribcage is broken!

Beomgyu groaned loudly, pain jolting all throughout his body like tiny little lightning strikes as he forced himself to roll onto his back to take pressure off of his now bruised chest. His limps sprawled out against the cold, damp earth as his vision was hazy. Blurry and painful, he laid there absolutely dazed.

It all felt like a bad dream, like a nightmare he couldn't escape from. Surely, whatever just happened now or whatever he saw was just a figment of his imagination, right?

But when he finally blinked a couple times and allowed his vision to clear up, all he saw was darkness. All he felt was the cold and discomforting air swirling around him.

Beomgyu's breath hitched as his heart began to tighten when he realized that this was in fact no false reality, that what he just went through now was no fever dream.

No golden skies. No radiant sun. No familiar golden fields or enchanting rivers. No warmth bathing his skin. He couldn't even feel the sacred connection between him and his family.

All around him was a cold night air, a dimly lit grass field that looked horribly tended to, and the sky which was scattered with strange, distant stars that felt unfamiliarity so familiar at the same time.

No... no nononononono! He gasped loudly as his guts twisted in horror, he felt sick to his stomach, like he was about to dry puke or something! Please don't tell me- this has to be a joke! This isn't for real?!

Beomgyu quickly scrambled up onto his feet, ignoring the way his muscles ached and screamed at him for not resting after the impact of the harsh fall, but he didn't care. "M-Morher?! Father?!" He called out towards the sky, panic and anger in his tone. "Hyuka?! Hello??? Anyone???"

He screamed desperately into the sky, hoping that Sol would hear his pleads and bring her sweet child back to Chiara, but instead, only silence responded back to him as his voice echoed out into the emptiness, causing him to feel like someone ripped his heart out of his chest.

Speaking of that, he felt like something... was missing, that something within him was gone.

Damn it! He hissed in a pained breath, looking down at his hands as he instinctively tried to summon a small burst of light to illuminate his surroundings. Please, please please please tell me this is a joke—

When he felt warmth gathering in his palm, his eyes lit up with hope and relief until the sensation instantly fizzled out, causing his jaw to drop in absolute disbelief.

His chest began to tighten, maybe he was just... in pain! Yeah, unfocused and dazed since he literally fell out of the sky like some shooting star!

With a deep breath, he focused once more, conjuring up all his strength as he tried once again and— okay, nope. Absolutely nothing.

Are you serious?! Is she really serious?! He scowled angrily towards the sky, throwing up the harsh middle finger as if his mother could see him. She actually took my damn powers! How the hell am I supposed to survive now?! God fucking damn it!

She could've at least let him keep a litttlleee bit of his powers! What he did wasn't even that bad!

Beomgyu groaned loudly, shaking his head as he glanced down towards the grass and towards his bag which somehow kept everything inside safe and secured, but god does he feel so fucking sick to his stomach!

He wanted to throw up, maybe even gouge out his eyeballs or rip his nostrils out because the air in this realm smelled absolutely awful! Like... like dirt and smoke mixed with waste that had been left out to rot for years! It made his nose wrinkle in pure disgust, this world was filthy and he did not belong here at all!

Oh, did he miss the luxury and actual healthy plant life of Chiara, this world was absolutely hideous!

Beomgyu inhaled a sharp, deep breath, forcing himself to focus. There's no way he's going to stay like this for... who knows how long! He needs his powers back, and he does remember the words his mother unfortunately said to him in the throne room. Something about there being a crystal necklace on Earth that had his powers sealed — so all he had to do right now was find it! Easy, right?

Man, does he wish it was easy like that.

The earth realm is huge. Beomgyu grumbled, slowly looking around as he picked up his bag cautiously, he was in some sort of city in the middle of a large courtyard. His powers could be anywhere! Mother was seriously being over dramatic, god does this pisses me off! She could've sent me somewhere more brighter and less stinky!

Even though he wanted to just scream, cry, and practically blow up everything around him — he unfortunately couldn't do it without his powers. But he does remember that long ago Ms. Selene (aka the one who started all this mess! she needs to be demoted immediately. grand lecturer my ass.) had taught him how to locate traces of his magic incase something were to ever happen, so maybe it was finally time to put that skill to the test.

So with a deep breath, Beomgyu closed his eyes and focused. Conjuring up all his (nonexistent) patience and energy to locate his magic. He can sense it, it's faint and distant but it's here somewhere.

For a moment, he was worried that he had done something wrong until he felt an invisible string tug on his heart, causing him to snap his eyes open and gasp loudly as the urge to suddenly follow the string that was tugging on him grew stronger.

The crystal necklace. His powers.

It was here, and it was close.

I need to get out of this stupid realm. Beomgyu clenched his jaw tightly as he clutched his bag and started following where his instincts guided him. I can't stand it here anymore! I need to get back home, if there's no reason to grow— I'm soon to be king anyway! (in five years.)

As he followed the invisible tug that drove him towards his powers, he couldn't help but feel his senses around him heighten because of the new atmosphere. The night air was cold against his skin, far different from the warmth and comfort of the sun in his home kingdom. The grass beneath his feet felt uncomfortable, this poor excuse of a courtyard was really horrific to his poor eyes as he walked down further the area, passing through patches of flickering streetlights.

In Chiara, night time was lively and restless, but in this damn realm it was eerily quiet, he hated it. Well... save for the occasional rustling of leaves or the distant hum of some mechanical buzz swirling through the air— okay the smell was really bothering him!

Just focus on getting the crystal necklace and getting your powers back, Choi. He breathed out a shaky sigh, the presence of his magic pulsed faintly in the wind, the thread guiding him forward as he crossed through an open gate, past strange looking people in odd clothing, who barely gave him a second glance.

This place is so weird, and so unclean. Beomgyu thought bitterly, scowling at their unflattering choice of clothing. Even the commoners in Chiara dressed better than these idiots! Not even glancing at me? I'm literally the most beautiful person in all of Chiara, disrespectful ass commoners!

He fastened his steps as he followed the thread further, walking down unfamiliar streets and past large and strange buildings that had way too many windows as he felt his power becoming stronger by the second. It was there! He can feel it, the delicious sensation of his powers pulsing somewhere!

The thought of getting his powers back so soon made a spark ignite within his stomach, causing him to pace down the area faster — his magic was right here, just a few more steps! Soon, he turned the corner and expected to find something grand like a huge gift box with a shining sun presenting the crystal necklace to him, gifting him his powers back.

But the true sight he saw, had made him stop dead in his tracks.

What the fuck?

This had to be wrong.

This... this was a fucking alleyway!

A grimace grew on Beomgyu's face as he hesitantly walked further into the narrow, disgusting alleyway, littered with hideous creatures and trash bins that were overflowing with bags, crumbled up papers and some weird juices pouring out of one of them.

Beomgyu stared down the alleyway, in utter disbelief. Certainly... certainly this wasn't where his precious powers were... right? He didn't want to believe it, but his instincts and senses were screaming at him, that his powers were lingering somewhere in this... alleyway filled with absolute... filth...?

Slowly, very slowly, he looked down at the nearest bin beside him.

No.

No. No no no no no no!

His mother hadn't been that cruel... right? She couldn't have done what he thinks she did. There's no way! Being banished to earth was a heavy punishment itself but... but throwing his precious powers away into the damn trash?! Making him scavenged for it like some wild beast is absolutely humiliating!

Beomgyu hesitated for a moment, though the chances were humiliating they weren't zero at all, his mother would go far and wide to make her damn point stated... and if what he thought was true then... she had thrown away his powers into the damn trash.

Great, this was going to fucking suck.

Thank Sol it was night time.

Taking a few steps forward, he hesitated for a moment m, glancing around to make sure he was certainly alone before slowly reaching down into the bit — tossing a rag to the side.

Right away, like a damn tidal wave, the stench hit him, hard.

"O-Oh fuck! For Sol's sake, did someone fucking die?!" He gagged loudly, unable to contain his disgust and horror as he recoiled, strange juices getting on his hands as he wiped it on his cloak, oops. Shouldn't have done that. "This is hell! Actual hell! How can these powerless mortals live like this— eugh! I can't!"

Beomgyu wanted to cry, he didn't want to do this at all. But his magic was here somewhere and he wasn't leaving without it! He needs to return home soon or else he'll absolutely go insane!

So with a groan of frustration, he forced himself to search the bins, muttering curses under his breath as he tossed things to the side and gagged multiple times from the putrid stench, his eyes burning with damn tears.

Come on! Come on, where are you? Just show yourself to me stupid pendant! He grimaced, hissing in a heavy breath when he brushed against something slimy and weird shaped. I can't stand this anymore, I'm going to kill—

clang!

A sudden sharp noise echoed out through the alleyway, causing him to tense up as he immediately backed away from the trash bins and spun around to where the source of the sound had come from, his eyes narrowing in panic.

What the hell...?

Well, shit.

Standing at the entrance of the alley was a boy — features slightly unrecognizable due to the dim lighting but it was clear he was wide-eyed in shock, holding some kind of plastic bag, staring at Beomgyu like he'd just seen some sort of monster or ghost or something!

Oh fuck. Fuck fuck fuck! Someone caught him digging around the trash like an animal. What does he do now...? Oh Sol, guide him— you know what, fuck it. He's going to do what he always does.

Demonstrate his power, of course.

So with deep breath, he took a sharp step forward which caused the poor boy to flinch, clearing his throat as he pointed an accusing finger towards him. "You there!" He exclaimed, tone strong and powerful. "Halt in the name of Sol and bow down to—"

"AAAAHHH!!" The boy screamed, suddenly causing Beomgyu to jump back because wow, was this boys voice fucking powerful! Why the hell was he screaming?! "Soobin- SOOBIN! The homeless guy is digging through the trash again! Hyung!"

...what?

What the fuck was a Soobin...?

Actually, that doesn't matter.

Homeless?? HOMELESS??

"Excuse me?!" Beomgyu shrieked, his face turning red in anger as he felt a wave of embarrassment wash through him, how dare this boy use those chose of words on him?! "Homeless? I'll have you know that I live in the most luxurious—"

Before he could finish his sentence, there was a sudden glimmer reflecting off of where the boys neck was, his eyes flickering towards the area as he caught glimpse of something wrapped around the boys neck.

Holy shit.

Even in the dim light, there was no mistake, no trickery, and he was certain his eyes weren't deceiving him.

He felt time slow down, his breath getting caught in his throat when he fully realized what it was.

The boy was wearing a crystal pendant around his neck.

A crystal pendant that contained his powers.

That was his crystal pendant.

This... this boy had somehow found his pendant and stole it from him, and now he was holding it hostage.

Beomgyu's jaw clenched tightly as red flashed in his visions, his eye twitching as he instantly shot the boy a deadly glare making him flinch. "Y-You... you imbecile! You stole my precious fucking powers! I'm going to make you pay for your disrespect against the king of Sol!"

"Wh-What?!"

Before the boy could respond, Beomgyu suddenly lunged forward with his hands out, reaching towards the necklace like a wild stray ready to pounce on its pray.

He was going to forcefully take his pendant back, head home, and finally—

SMACK!

"...You didn't kill him... right?"

"Hyun-ah, why in the world would I kill someone?"

"Well, he's been out for like... an hour or two, and he doesn't seem to be waking up anytime soon!"

"Uhm...? Maybe it's because he charged at you?! I didn't even hit him that hard!"

"You literally hit him with a metal pipe! A pipe!!! Where the fuck did you even get a pipe?!"

A low, soft groan escaped from Beomgyu's throat as those faint voices that seemed so far away felt so loud in his head, his eyes began to flutter open, the world around him felt like it was spinning.

What the hell...? He hissed in a pained breath when immediate pain began to throb all over his head, like a hammer constantly pressing down on him. Where am I? Fuck... what happened?

The pulsing headache began to spread further through his skull, making his vision swim as he slowly blinked in and out of consciousness. This headache was worse than the one he gad when one of the palaces' pheonix's dove straight into his head, oh god this hurts! Was he dead?

The last thing he could only remember was charging at that... that boy who had his crystal. He was so close to achieving his powers until something hard slammed against his head and then like a light switch, he was out.

"W-Wait! I think he's alive!"

"See? No murder charges today!"

"He's going to charge you with assault!"

"He assaulted you first!"

God, shut the hell up! Beomgyu groaned, the two voices louder than before as his body began to ache with every slight shift. Where the hell am I?

Slowly catching glimpse of his surroundings, he could barely see anything since the room was so dim, and there was some... some artificial strawberry scent lingering in the air. He wasn't used to this, not at all. It was stuffy, and so dark he could barely breathe.

His fingers curled against the soft material beneath him — it wasn't silk of his royal bed, but it was some commoner fabric. How dare these lowlives put him on some cheap bed and not a luxurious grand king sized one?!

"Thank god he wasn't murdered, right?"

Okay, what the fuck.

Beomgyu scowled angrily, a pained groan escaping him as he tried to sit up, god was his head fucking spinning! Anyways, of course he wasn't murdered, nobody will ever murder him because he's the most powerful person ever! He's the future king of Chiara, heir to the throne and—

"Heyyy! Weird guy, you're awake now! Great! Now get your smelly ass off our couch."

The sound of an unfamiliar voice that was now much closer to him than before made Beomgyu immediately jolt, wincing at the sharp pain that shot through his skull, he immediately turned his head and looked up, his eyes widening at the two figures standing near him.

The first figure was a tall... very tall... man, broad shoulders and some sort of weird mullet going on while his face had a wary expression, his arms crossed and expectant as if he were waiting for him to move. Oh, so this must be the guy who hit him, he just gives off the vibes of an attacker.

The second boy—

oh.

oh.

Beomgyu's eyes widened the moment his eyes landed on the second boy, his breath caught in his throat as he felt the world around him blur, and suddenly the pain in his head felt numb and faded.

He hated to admit this but... this other boy, he was stunning, ethereal even. Wide dark brown eyes that looked like a deep enchanting lake that could hold stars in them, soft brown hair that framed his face perfectly, and his features were elegant yet sharp (and talk about that body too— wait what?). Despite the dim light within the room, his features popped ever so beautifully: the curve of his cheekbones, the fullness of those plump pretty lips, the careful yet warm intensity in his gaze.

This boy couldn't be a mortal from Earth, he couldn't.

He looked like he had been sculpted by goddess Sol herself, or was he a descendant from the god of beauty, Astrid? He wasn't so sure, but one thing was for certain. Beomgyu had never seen someone so... so beautiful in his entire life.

His mind — still hazy and overwhelmed with everything that happened in the span of maybe two hours — began to spiral with thoughts that he had never thought of before and some that made absolutely no sense.

Is this boy blessed by the gods? He has to be.

Am I hallucinating? There's no way someone could be as beautiful, he nearly surpasses my own beauty.

I have to shower him in gold and gifts.

Should I throw a sunflower at him? No... no no no, maybe a persimmon?

(In Chiara, throwing a sunflower or persimmon was the most honorable and romantic way one could propose to their loved one. A precious, sacred marriage proposal tradition reserved for only the most esteemed and purest of lovers there was.)

For a brief, unbelievable and delirious moment, he actually considered it. All of the past suitors that he had met were all so boring, never striking his interest, but some mere mortal managed to capture his interest in just a few seconds? It's unbelievable, really.

He felt his throat dry up, suddenly he felt so self conscious of his own appearance, especially since this was the boy who caught him digging around in the trash—

Wait. This was the boy who caught him digging around in the trash.

Like a flick of a light switch, Beomgyu quickly snapped out of the weird trance (could this mortal be a siren in disguise? he was certain he was lured into a silent love song spell of some sort.) He suddenly glanced down towards the boys neck, causing anger to flush all over his face.

The pendant.

His powers.

He stole it.

The crystal pendant gleamed faintly under the dim lights, resting against the boys collarbone as it glimmered beautifully against his honey-tan skin. It was admirable, really, but that was his pendant and his magic!

That was his one way ticket home, and he stole it.

Without a second thought, Beomgyu immediately shot up, ignoring the way his body protested and his vision blurred before he stabilized himself, groaning softly. "Where am I?! Did you kidnap me?!" He demanded, his voice hoarse and weak. "You attacked me, didn't you? How dare you lay your hands on the future king of Sol?!—"

"I fucking told you he was drunk or on drugs!" The taller boy exclaimed angrily towards the shorter one, cutting Beomgyu off which made him stunned. "We should've just left him in the alleyway or something, Hyun! Now we're wasting our precious time on watching TBHK!"

"Drunk people are around campus all of the time!" The shorter boy... or Hyun... said, throwing his hands up in the air as he looked over towards the other. "Plus, if we were to leave him, who knows who he would report us to! Come on, hyung! Look at him! He looks fucked up and botched! And shut up about that damn boring anime!"

Beomgyu winced, his jaw dropping and eyebrows furrowing at the shorter boy's choice of words. Excuse me? But what the fuck does he mean botched? That word is used to describe scary monsters, isn't it? So is this pretty boy who didn't seem real at all... calling him hideous?!

What the hell was an "anime"?

Ugh, whatever, he was so fucking angry right now. First, he has the audacity to steal his pendant and power. Now secondly, he calls him a monster!

"Excuse me?!" Beomgyu snapped, gaining their attention once again as he threw his hands in the air. "I am not drunk! I'm not botched either, so fuck you guys!" He threw a lovely middle finger towards them. "I am Choi Beomgyu, heir to the throne of Chiara, and I can have you both executed for injuring me!"

The taller guy, Bin was his name? Gave the Hyun guy a knowing look, as if he were exhausted and sick of what was happening now. "See? On some shit. You should've brought him to the damn RA's office and not our dorm, idiot!"

"Okay, I see that!" The Hyun guy snapped angrily. "Stop reminding me of my mistakes! He's probably part of that one frat boy house, got wasted. I think they had a party tonight."

RA? Dorm? Frat boy house? What the hell were these new terms? God he felt like his mother figuring out the new "slangs" Chiarians say nowadays.

Quickly ignoring their words, his gaze locked onto the pretty boy — more importantly, his necklace (though, he wouldn't mind admiring his face a bit more.)

"That," He said sharply, pointing towards the crystal pendant around the boys neck. "That necklace is mine! Return it to me at once and I'll leave peacefully."

The pretty boy just blinked, then very calmly, he took a step back and tilted his head. "Uhm. Sorry but... this was a gift from a friend so... I don't think I'll be giving it to you anytime soon."

Beomgyu felt his eye twitch, his face flushing an even brighter shade of red. How dare this really pretty commoner slash nobody say no to him?! "Why not?! I need it!"

The taller boy immediately moved in front of pretty boy, crossing his arms as his eyes narrowed. "He's trying to rob us now! This is great!" He muttered angrily, were mortals always this mean? "Listen man, I don't know where your dorm is or what hole you crawled out of, but why the hell would Taehyun give you his necklace?"

"Soobin... seriously..."

Taehyun? Soobin? That must be the commoners names. He really didn't want to admit it but the name "Taehyun" sounded absolutely beautiful, it was fit for a precious pretty boy like him— wait, no! Nononono, focus on the right thing, damn it!

"Because it's mine? It doesn't matter if it's his or not!" Beomgyu shot back, he was ninety nine percent sure that the crystal pendant contained his powers, he can feel the flow of magic from it! "I demand you to return it to me!"

Soobin groaned loudly, rubbing his temple, like he was a walking headache. "Beomgyu, right? Listen we don't want no trouble, so just leave!" He grumbled. "Seriously, what are you going to do if we don't? Challenge us in the "name of Sol"? Real funny, man."

Beomgyu felt speechless, why did it feel like these two were mocking him? Quickly glancing over towards Taehyun who stared at him with those darling wide eyes, he felt himself get choked up. In all honesty, he would have, if he actually had his powers to fucking challenge them.

Well, he's out of options. He can't use force, he literally got knocked out because of that, and obviously demanding wasn't working because these two boys were rude!

His jaw clenched tightly, he felt so angry. He was outnumbered, without magic, and completely lost in this damn filthy forsaken world, now these two idiots were holding his precious blessing from Sol hostage! if he wanted his magic back, he had to use another tactic.

Which meant he needed a new plan.

He stood there for a moment, thinking back to any lessons that could help him. It wasn't until a faint memory flashed through his head, when he was in the village with Huening Kai visiting and the younger was kind to everyone and everything, it made him so confused why he would buy things for the villagers.

It wasn't until Huening Kai smiled brightly towards him and told him that kindness brings you a long way.

So... what if he... was kind to these... people?

Even though he was mildly irritated, he took a deep breath and shuffled awkwardly in his spot, his expression softening as he dropped the commanding tone. "I... apologize for my hostility," He said, forcing a smile that made his face ache, god he hated this! He hated apologizing! "I am just... distraught, I guess. May I know your names properly?"

Taehyun raised an eyebrow, his guard dropping down slightly as he pushed Soobin out of the way. "I'm Kang Taehyun, and this is my roommate, Choi Soobin," Ugh, how dare rhat peasant share the name surname as him? "Appreciate the apology, now can you tell us where the hell you came from?"

"Tell us what booze you had too, for scientific reasons—" slap! "— never mind."

Beomgyu hesitated on his answer for a brief second, should he tell them he came from Chiara? That he was shamefully banished from his kingdom because he had accidentally exploded his younger brother's ceiling? Well... they certainly didn't believe him the first time he said he was king of Sol, so maybe he has to just... fake being normal for now, which was disgusting, ugh.

"Uhhh... I don't know where I came from," He scratched the back of his neck. "I'm kinda lost and confused, I guess? Searching for uhm... sanctuary?" Well, that's not far from the truth.

Soobin and Taehyun both stared at him, one with a pitiful expression and the other with an unbelievable one. For a minute, nobody said anything, the air turning tensed as Beomgyu awkwardly shifted in his spot — oh hey! He sees his bag!

"Okay uhm... do you remember your name?"

"Choi Beomgyu, duh."

"Your age?"

"Twenty?"

Taehyun's eyebrows raised, as if he were taken aback by that answer before he shook his head, quickly recovering. "Alright, what's your major and who is your roommate?"

Major...? Roommate?

What the hell did he mean by that? Wait, was pretty boy asking him what his major role was in Chiara? Oh he will gladly boast about it!

"Future king of Chiara!" Beomgyu said confidently, huffing his chest out with a prideful smile. "And I don't need no roommate, why would I need one?"

"The fuck?" Soobin muttered.

Taehyun let out another exhausted sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Okay, I'm way too tired for this. You wanted my necklace right?—"

"Yes!"

"— Cool, you're not getting it." He deadpanned. "Now get out of our dorm and go home man, it's almost two in the morning and we got classes in the morning."

What the hell is this guys issue?! Beomgyu scowled slightly, usually people would heed his demands and listen to him right away. And the kindness act wasn't working at all! He just wants his powers, fuck!

"But it's important to me!"

"So is my sleep, so get out!"

Beomgyu felt taken aback, offended even. This was the first time someone refused to listen to his demands, he even said please! Do you know how embarrassing it is to get the future king of Chiara to apologize?! Ugh! He hated this, absolutely hated the way they were treating him like- like he was some delirious fool!

This Taehyun boy... he seemed reserved and respectful, yet he lacked the foolishness of trusting those easily.

So it all came down to one plan:

He needed to get close to Taehyun, befriend him somehow, and steal his powers back.

But how in the world was he going to do that? He had no idea where he was or how to properly make friends with others, it was an embarrassing struggle but he barely talks to anyone outside of the palace.

Plus, he really didn't want to leave, this weird small room he woke up was warm and comfortable, and he had no idea where he was or where to go.

"You're at Ito University, by the way," Soobin perked up, looking at Beomgyu suspiciously before back at Taehyun. "Hyun, I can ask Yeonjun if he knows this dude."

"No, don't waste hyung's time with this lunatic—"

"Let me stay!" Beomgyu exclaimed loudly, startling the others who were shocked at his outburst. "I-I- uh... I need to stay here!"

"Why in the world would we let you stay here? You're trying to rob us and attack us!" Soobin scoffed, throwing an accusing finger towards his directions. "If you're one of those damn college students who go around wrecking havoc i'm going to—"

"Do you not have a dorm of your own?" Taehyun asked, but this time he sounded genuinely concerned.

Beomgyu pursed his lips tightly. Well obliviously he didn't have a dorm of his own, he was kicked out of his palace and forced to stroll around and dig through the trash like some animal! So he has no where to stay, and he feels humiliated if he has to sleep out on the streets in the cold, so he has no other choice or place — plus, they all know each others name now! They're all basically friends! Kinda.

"I... uh... don't," He muttered under his breath, his face flushing red. "I actually have no where to go and I'm... super lost."

"Okay? And? You can't stay here we don't—"

"Please!" Beomgyu exclaimed desperately, shocking himself as he darted forward and immediately grabbed onto Taehyun's hands, causing the other to flinch at the action. "I-I have no where else to go! This is the only sanctuary I know so far, just let me stay for a day!" Maybe a week? or two? or five?

His tone was pathetic and desperate, a tone he had never ever used in his entire life. His expression was vulnerable and weak, it was an embarrassment at this point, he was certain if the people of Chiara saw their future king begging a mortal to let him stay in their humble abode, they would shun him.

But he needs to befriend these people, befriend Taehyun. Stay close and gain his powers back, and he also needs sanctuary.

So really, he has no where else to go.

And he refuses to even spend another night outside of that smelly land!

There was a long beat of silence.

Taehyun's eyes were widened as he stared at their intertwined hands, a weird faint flush of pink bloomed over his face like flowers during spring time — his expression wavering into a strange softness as he nearly went limp, groaning lowly.

"You know what?" He muttered, glancing up at Beomgyu, the eye contact making his heart feel weird. "Fine. Just because you don't seem sober at all right now."

"Wh-What?!" Soobin spluttered, completely taken aback by the males choice. "Taehyun, you can't—"

Before he could finish his sentence, he pulled his hand out of Beomgyu's grip and held it up, glancing towards the elder with a strange expression. "If you're so uncomfortable with it, then go sleep at Yeonjun's! But it's just for tonight, no harm dealt. Plus he apologized!"

Not like I wanted to.

Soobin clenched his jaw tightly, glancing towards Beomgyu with an irritated expression before scoffing. "Fine! He can stay, but he needs to shower! Using your stuff too, I can't stand the damn stench!"

Both yes!

Beomgyu could barely contain the smile that grew on his face, for once he felt relieved being in a place he was unfamiliar with, and he was relieved being around two people who doesn't seem that bad.

Also, he does need a shower, he fucking reeks.

"You can sleep on the couch tonight," Taehyun said, catching his attention once again, wow... he had to be a siren or something, he felt so... weird, why was he listening to this boy so much? "I'll prepare it to make it more comfortable, we don't have much but... yeah."

"Oh uhm," Beomgyu felt his face suddenly heat up, feeling weak under the males gaze, but he forced himself to stay strong. "Yeah... sure. Where's your bathroom? Soobin was right, I need a shower. Ha... ha..."

He has to prepare a bath for himself? This sucked! Usually his servants prepared it for him.

"Down the hallway, to your left. There should be extra towels in the cabinet. Take your bag too."

Beomgyu pursed his lips tightly, nodding his head as he picked his bag up and glanced over towards the necklace around Taehyun's neck one last time. Irritation bubbling slightly as he hurried away and down the hall, turning left and immediately finding his way into the bathroom.

It was small, but it will do for now.

"Are you serious about this Tyun? He can be dangerous—"

"I'm doing a kind favor, he really did seem lost."

Beomgyu scoffed angrily, shutting the door to muffle out their conversation. He was grateful they allowed him to stay, but man, did he really wish he was in Chiara right now.

But now, he had a new plan.

Obviously, those around him... these mortals will be confused if he tried to boast about his wealth and status of a kingdom they never heard of before, and he was powerless, so now he had to appear normal. Just like his mother said before, he's going to have to learn about how hard it is being a mortal.

Yet his powers were just a few steps away from him! He could easily grab onto the pendant and run, but his instincts yelled at him not to injure Taehyun, he hated it.

A true Chiarian king never injuries the innocent.

But if he were to... get close with Taehyun, befriend him, and earn his trust to make him hand over the pendant, things will be right.

It's okay, Gyu. He breathed out shallowly, glancing at himself in the mirror, nearly cringing at his messy attire. It's just temporary, it'll all be over soon. Just befriend him, earn your powers back, and head home.

God... does he miss home so much, he misses the luxury and warmth.

He misses Hyuka.

But now here he was, stuck on Earth because of some tiny mistake!

But never mind that, he's determined to earn his powers back at any cost! He's going to live easily in this Earth realm! Prove his mother wrong!

Now... how in the world does he start a bath?

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