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Hwang Hyunjin. First of His name. Ruler of Versaniret Kingdom. 

He was previously nicknamed The Velvet Prince, known for his pure embodiment of gracefulness and delicacy. His voice, his scent, his presence. It all resembled the feeling of velvet. The color that emitted from his person, his aura, was the color of velvet. Royal, elegant, and true. 

Hyunjin has taken the throne after his father passed away from old age, taking on the responsibility of being the crown of the forever kingdom. He has sat in this throne position for approximately four years. He started when he was only the age of 21. This year, he recently celebrated his 25th birthday. Oh, how time flies. 

Around this time of the season marks the yearly ball in Versaniret Kingdom. 

A new host is selected every year to plan and prepare the grandest and memorable ball they can imagine. The theme, decorations, dress code, time and place, food and drink menu, music, and entertainment. It was all up to the hosts. Their budget is whatever they own in their name, and the guest list was everybody in the kingdom. Expect nothing more, expect nothing less.

Hyunjin’s favorite hosts have been those from Minberry and Fenchania. They were gorgeous, with a wide variety of food and drinks from all over the world. The courtyards and gardens were endless, and almost anybody could get lost in their palaces. Our king always enjoys it when it is their turn to host once more; it never gets old, and there is always something to look forward to from them. 

However, this year is someone entirely new. Somebody that has not hosted any ball before. Their name is long-lived, but it has not been as popular as the others. The Lee family. It is a true mystery why they have yet to host a ball while Hyunjin’s family was in reign, especially for as long as the tradition has been for. Ever since Hyunjin was a child, he remembered all the different balls, and not once has he heard of such a Lee family. 

Thus, this is why he is not looking forward to attending the ball. As much as he is into trying new things, when it comes to balls and parties, he holds extremely high expectations for them. And with no previous reference on what he has to look forward to, his expectations had dropped severely. 

“What have we even heard from the Lee family over in the Louikarri house?” Hyunjin grumbles as he folds a piece of paper from his notebook into a small paper airplane. He blows his lips together, making blubbery noises, as he throws the paper airplane. Which poorly travels and shoots quickly onto the marbled floors of the throne room. 

The Hand of the King, better known as Sam, walks over and picks up the paper airplane from the floor. He lets out a sigh as he throws it onto Hyunjin’s lap and stands beside him. “We haven’t heard much but good things, sir.”

Hyunjin’s feet are kicked up on the armrest of the throne, his cheek pressed against his balled-up fist as he zones out. He comes back and clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth. “Tch. Good things about what exactly?”

“They’re very rich and donate many of their funds to charities and peasants down in the poorer areas. The Lee family is also very kind and has opened their home to mere passersby who needed a place to stay. They’re very generous with gifts and never attend an event without a gift for the hosts.” Sam explains, tapping away at his small handbook, which holds such information. “Ah, they’re the second-highest royal family here. After us, of course.” He chuckles as he pushes his glasses up against his face. 

“Nothing about preparing balls, though.” Hyunjin scoffs as he sits properly in his throne and clears his throat. “So what’s the point?”

Sam rolls his eyes and closes the book. He flicks the top of the king’s head and crosses his arms. “Hey- why are you so judgey right now? You don’t even know the family at all.” 

Hyunjin squints at his Hand and massages the point on his dome that was flicked. “That’s exactly why I am being judgey. I don’t know them at all.” He shakes his head. “Besides, mother has been on my ass lately. More than usual.” He groans, sinking into the throne. 

“Ah, right… when it’s time for the ball, the Mother Queen is extra nagging about you finding—“

“—a bride. I am aware. I’ve heard that damn phrase about finding a bride more than my own name in the span of today.” Hyunjin finishes Sam’s sentence, already at his wits’ end by the mere memory of his mom’s voice booming in his ear. 

Ever since Hyunjin turned of age, his mother would constantly try to pair him with special girls within the kingdom. Wake him up one day, and suddenly he had blind dates to attend with girls from other families. One time, she ordered this girl from out of the country to see him. 

Sure, some of the girls were nice and pretty. But he could never find the one. The feeling that everybody swears you’ll get when you meet that one person… he has never felt it. Hyunjin has accepted that he isn’t made for love. That he wasn’t built for it. But his mother, and even his Hand and royal staff, refuse to let him fall for such a mindset.

Sam sighs, placing a consoling hand on Hyunjin’s shoulder. “I know how annoying it can be, but…” he pauses as he lets Hyunjin take a breath. “Just try to enjoy tonight, okay? Just trust me. It’ll be good.”

“I’ll be the judge of that.” Hyunjin acknowledges the hand on his shoulder before tapping him away and standing to his feet. Brushing himself off and adjusting his collar, which wraps a bit tight around his collarbone. 

The clock dings loudly, echoing against the pristine walls and windows of the palace. Sam clasps his hands together and places a guiding hand against Hyunjin’s back. “Your majesty, it's time to get you dressed for the ball.” 

Hyunjin lets out a small chuckle and looks over to Sam, who has a small smirk against his lip as well. “You know how I feel about you calling me those formal fancy titles…” He nudges him as they walk together out of the throne room. 

“Oh, but I must continue calling you, Your Majesty, as it is my job as The Hand of the Royal Family of Versaniret Kingdom-“ Sam can’t even continue his not-so-serious statement without laughing. Folding over with small tears beading in his eyes as he can barely get the rest of the lines out. 

Hyunjin stops in his tracks, turning to his Hand, but truly his dear friend, laughing along with him. “You sound sooo stupid when you speak formally to me, you know?” He laughs and points. 

Sam chuckles, standing back up straight and patting his eyes with a small cloth from his pocket. “Oh, trust me, I know. But I have to keep up the formalities. It really is my job.”

“Not around me, though.” Hyunjin nudges him and winks with a small chuckle. They share one last laugh before rolling back their shoulders, straightening their back, and keeping serious expressions as they pass by royal staff and members in the endless hallways. Always have to keep a professional stance around others. But when it’s just them two, anything goes.

• • • • • •

Hyunjin steps into his dressing room, decorating the ceiling to floor with mirrors and perfect lighting that can be changed according to what look the King is going for. The center platform that stands in the middle of all the mirrors rises from the floor, revealing tiny steps that Hyunjin takes to be raised off the ground. He spins around, checking himself out. “So, what’s the theme for tonight’s ball?” He asks the seamstress.

She bows with a smile and begins to walk over to the master closet in the back. Built into the wall so it does not take up any unnecessary room, and opens up into an even wider room than the dressing room. Hangers and mannequins for days, displaying all of the different outfits that King Hyunjin has the privilege of having for special occasions. 

The seamstress comes out with one rolling mannequin, dressed in the outfit perfectly designed for tonight’s occasion. 

The suit is a soft off-white color with loose fabric, giving off a flow and free movement. The jacket top is loose and oversized, the deep neckline meant to expose bits of the model’s collarbone. Eyes dropping to the bottom, the pants are wide and layered with a light layer of what seems to be the back side of a skirt, attached to the back. 

It isn’t a simple white tux, however, as there are fake flowers sewn and embedded into the suits. Dripping from the shoulder, most prominent around the chest area, and falling at the end of the tux jacket. Long strips of fabric hang from the sleeve cuffs, adding to the flowy movement resembled of the skirt of the pants. 

“The Lee Family chose the theme of Floral Elegance." The seamstress explains, it perfectly resembles the custom-made suit. 

Hyunjin smiles as the mannequin in a suit is rolled closer to his platform. He feels the warmth and softness of the fabric, already feeling himself in the suit before he puts it on. “Wonderful.” He smiles at the woman, “Thank you.” 

“Of course.” The seamstress begins to take the suit off the mannequin, “Now… let’s get Our Majesty ready for tonight.” She orders as the other dressing staff move from their positions and begin to grab their supplies to prepare King Hyunjin. 

The staff brushed through Hyunjin’s soft and luxurious hair that flowed down to the top of his back. They rubbed products through his hair, keeping it shiny and smooth to the eye and touch. Carefully taking irons to his locks, curling the ends of his hair outwards to create this look of someone who is meant to be seen. Next was makeup, which was done by their special makeup artist, Risabae. His good friend, and someone he deeply admires for her skill.

She and he talk, catching up and preparing for tonight’s ball. As they chat, Risabae does a makeup look that gives him a soft but striking glow. Hyunjin’s skin looks smooth and shiny, almost like glass. The blush around his cheeks and eyes adds warmth and brings out his features. His eyes stand out with a bit of white liner and highlighter in the inner corners. The lips are natural with a soft pink shade, and his bold brows frame his face well. Altogether, the look highlights his bone structure and makes him shine.

“Why do you growl when I do your waterline?” Risabae asked while laughing, spraying Hyunjin with setting spray to finish the makeup look. 

He can’t help but laugh, doing his best to keep his head straight as he is still being worked on with his hairstyle. “I’ll never get used to that feeling so close to my eyes.” 

Risabae laughs and claps her hands together as she looks at the finished product. “Anddd we’d finished. Look in the mirror, how do you feel about it?” She steps out of the way and lets Hyunjin analyze himself in the body mirror before him. The curls are being formed as he watches, and his glimmering skin from the makeup screams on his face.

“Holy shit.” Hyunjin smiles and admires himself. “I love it.” He smiles and stares in awe at how Risabae completely transformed him, but didn’t change his natural features. He is extra pretty this time. 

“Nothing you need me to change?” Risabae asks as she slowly begins to pack away the makeup products back into the closet where they originally came. 

Hyunjin shakes his head as he cannot take his eyes off himself in the mirror. “It’s perfect… Thank you.” He smiles as he watches Risabae put away the things and disappear to work on other duties of hers. Hyunjin lets out a sigh and allows the rest of the dressing process to continue. 

• • • • • •

“Okay, we’re all finished here, Your Majesty.” The seamstress speaks as she steps away from the platform, allowing Hyunjin to admire his new look in the mirrors before him.

Watching how his hair flows down his face, his shiny makeup, and his elegant suit that fits him perfectly, he smiles. “You guys did an amazing job.” He compliments as he does a full 360 in the mirror, capturing every detail as he stares and watches himself. “Thank you."

The staff accept the compliment and bow, expressing their gratitude and appreciation. “You’re welcome, your majesty.” They say in the same gentle tone, always feeling appreciated and seen by the king.

Moments pass by, and Sam enters the room, dressed in his dark green suit with brown and white flowers painted onto the fabric, dripping from top to bottom, but most prominent on the backside of the jacket. He spins for his friend and king, smiling as he looks at Hyunjin’s outfit. “Rocking another outfit, I see you!” He chuckles as he joins him on the platform, both looking at their appearances in the mirror.

“Green looks good on you,” Hyunjin says with a smile, nudging his Hand and friend in the side. 

Before they admire themselves more, a knock at the door is heard. Soon, the turn of the knob turns and a new person into the dressing room. Hyunjin’s mother. The Mother Queen. 

“Is Hyunjin in here - oh good.” She speaks as she quickly makes her way over to the platform where both men stand, turned to give acknowledgment to the Queen. She stops before them and gives a bow. “Hello, Sam. Hello, Hyunjin.”

They both bow with grace. “Hello, your majesty,” Sam speaks formally.

“Hi, mother,” Hyunjin says. His mood quickly changes as he realizes why his mother had waltzed into this very room, searching for him. He clears his throat, preparing to hear her grand old speech about her usual worry. 

The Mother Queen straightens her back and brings her chin up, showing her dominance and power over the two, with still great power. “You both look dashing in your suits. I’m sure you will turn many heads as you enter the ballroom.” She compliments, “especially my Hyunjin.” She giggles and reaches to pinch his cheeks, but Hyunjin backs up to keep himself out of reach. 

“Thank you, your majesty,” Sam says, keeping himself formal and polite.

Seeing the retraction, she pulls back her arm and sticks her tongue on the top of her mouth. Not wanting to start any argument, she clears her throat and continues on. “Anyways… I just want to remind you that you need to be in search of your bride tonight, Hyunjin.” Her voice remains stern and monotone.

Hyunjin fights the urge to roll his eyes in that very moment, but he just keeps a strong eye contact with his mother. “Mhm.” He speaks, all he can muster without groaning as a response. 

“You are getting closer and closer to the age where you are expected to have a woman around your arm. To be honest, when you turned of age, that was expected then too.” His mother speaks. “You are twenty-five years old, and no woman has impressed you nor taken your heart. Do you not care? Do you not take your role as King seriously?” 

Here she goes with the accusations again. 

Hyunjin doesn’t even bother to protest. Every time she speaks about this topic, it’s the same response from him, and it’s the same reaction from her because of his response. There is no point in fighting. Just let her talk, and she’ll be leaving soon.

“At this point, I don’t even care if you fall in love with her. Just get a damn woman who is into you, and we can be over and done with. I need my grandbabies who will take the throne after you. So I expect you to come home with a bride around your arm tonight, Hwang Hyunjin.” His mother demands, her finger extended out and pointed right in his face.

Hyunjin just sighs and nods his head. “Yup.” He responds plainly, already dreading attending this party because of his mother’s yapping. 

“I am your mother, Hyunjin. You do not respond to me like that.” 

Sam steps in and clears his throat, giving his usual warm smile to tone the tension down. “Don’t worry, your majesty, he will find someone tonight. I’ll be with him to make sure of it.” He bows and gives a squeeze to Hyunjin’s arm. 

“Thank you, my dear.” The Queen smiles and begins to step off the platform. “Now, I’ll leave you two to it. I’ll see you again soon.” She bows before she leaves the room. 

Finally being alone again, Hyunjin lets out a heavy groan, sounding like he was holding his breath the entire time his mother was present. “Jesus fuck. Finally, she left.” He rolls his eyes and shakes his head.

Sam sighs and turns to him. “Can you at least try tonight? - I’m not saying you never do… but… maybe you’ll find one this time.” He gives a reassuring smile. 

“We’ll see,” Hyunjin responds plainly. It’s not the best answer, but it’s better than nothing. Sam accepts this reply and nods his head. “Now, let’s get out of here. Before I find an excuse to stay home.” He tugs at his suit before hopping off the platform, Sam following behind him.  

Without wasting any more time, they exit the dressing room. They walk formally out from the castle and make their way to the Royal Carriage that will be transporting them to the Loukkari Palace. 

Taking seats on opposite sides of the carriage, the plush red velvet seats with dark red curtains to block out the public eye welcome their usual guests. Hyunjin immediately stretches out as much as possible in his seat, being careful of his tux, but also not wanting to remain so stiff for a long trip. Sam chuckles and opens the tiny patch he has in his tux and reveals a small, clear vial with liquid inside. He sighs and pops it open. “You want some?” He asks as he drops a bit onto his tongue, then signals towards the relaxed King. 

“What is it?” Hyunjin sits up, reaching his hand out, slowly bringing the vial closer to his lips. He smells the aroma, it’s alcohol, and it is strong. 

Sam lets the alcohol flow through his body, his eyes shut, and his senses calming down. Hearing the question, he smirks. “Vodka.” Sam winks as he watches Hyunjin’s eyes grow wide and sparkle at the reply. 

“You know how to pregame well.” Hyunjin chuckles as he takes a shot from the vial, then hands it back to the original owner. The warm feeling fills up his mouth, dripping from his lips, and soon flows throughout his body. It relaxes him as he shuts his eyes and lays his head against the wall behind him. He hummed small tunes to himself. 

Sam tucks it safely back into his suit and lets out a sigh, seeing Hyunjin begin to relax in his seat as well. “We don’t know what to expect when we get there, might as well have a bit of fun now.” He chuckles as he peeks through the curtain, seeing the changing scenery. 

The trip is going to take a while, so both men decide to relax by shutting their eyes until they arrive.

• • • • • •

“Gentlemen. We have arrived.” The coachman speaks as he peeks through the red curtain of the carriage. 

Hyunjin feels the presence and opens his eyes carefully, not rubbing his eyes due to his makeup, but he blinks quickly to wake himself up. He already hears bustling noises of people and faint noises of music. He stretches and meets eyes with the coachman and gives a gentle smile. “Oh, thank you.” He says politely as he begins to straighten his suit from a slumped rest. 

Sam, hearing speaking voices, awakens and looks around the carriage. No longer feeling the sense of being in his kingdom, he quickly peeks out the other side of the carriage, being met with a lit up palace and hundreds of guests entering inside. His eyes sparkle and he smiles brightly. “King Hyunjin, are we here?” He asks as he grabs some spritz and sprays it into his mouth, refreshing my breath for any lucky person coming his way.

“We have, let’s hurry so we don’t get lost in the crowd.” Hyunjin says as he also takes some spritz and quickly exits the vehicle, grabbing a hand of the coachmen down the carriage step. He clears his throat as he admires the surroundings. 

Never being on this part of the kingdom, he looks up and sees the grand palace before him. It rises near a calm, moonlit sea, with tall white towers that shimmer like stars. The walls shine with soft colors, silver, gold, and deep blue, glowing gently as if touched by magic. Just looking at it feels like stepping into a dream.

“Woah…” Sam speaks as he steps out from the carriage and stares alongside the King. 

The front gates are made of silver and dark gold, carved with symbols of stars and moons. 

“Come on, your majesty. Let’s head inside.” Sam quickly places a hovering hand behind Hyunjin’s back, guiding him to walk forward. Hyunjin nods silently as they both begin to enter the gates of the palace, completely in awe of the structure and beauty of it all. 

As they walk inside, the gates reveal a wide courtyard with black stone fountains that sparkle like diamonds. The gardens glow with rare flowers, blue roses, golden petals, and fire-colored blooms. Each one showing different sides of who The Lee Family is: gentle, strong, calm, and full of passion.

Sam’s jaw practically drops as he scans the entire setting. “Holy shit. This place is magnificent. Hyunjin, this has to be the most grand palace we’ve been to… besides our own, of course.” He quickly adds so his majesty doesn’t jump him.

“Let’s see if the inside holds the same grace.” Hyunjin pessimistically speaks as he tries to remain unimpressed. 

As the huge, heavy doors are opened to welcome its guests, Hyunjin and Sam carefully step inside and take in their surroundings. Everybody who enters alongside them takes in the view of how the palace stretches far and wide. The ceilings are painted with moving constellations that change as you walk, like the night sky following your steps. Black and white marble swirls across the floors like waves in the ocean, showing balance and harmony. Thick velvet curtains hang along the walls, stitched with golden suns and twin moons, symbols of both light and shadow.

This palace is not only beautiful, it feels alive. It’s filled with warmth, mystery, and magic. It holds both peace and power. Just as the Lee Family intended, it is unforgettable.

Following the crowd, the King of Versaniret Kingdom and the Hand of the King turn and enter what appears to be the ballroom. Where the real party is at. Where all things planned truly matter for tonight. 

“Chin up. We will have eyes on us.” Hyunjin mutters. 

Sam chuckles. “You mean they’ll have eyes on you? You’re the god damn King, don’t forget that. I’m just your Hand now…” He shakes his head as he adjusts his tie and shakes out his hair.

Hyunjin smiles. “Please. You look great, too. Might as well be King, too.” 

The tall doors at the end of a candle-lit hallway slowly open, and the space is so breathtaking, it feels like walking into a living dream. 

The ballroom stretches endlessly, with giant crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, each shaped like blooming wisteria and dripping with gems that sparkle like dew. Vines of glowing flowers climb the tall marble pillars, and soft petals float gently through the air as if caught on an invisible breeze. The floor, polished to a perfect shine, reflects the blossoms and lights above, giving the illusion that guests are dancing on a garden pond at sunrise.

The scent of fresh roses, jasmine, and cherry blossoms fills the air, delicate and sweet. High arched windows are draped in silk curtains embroidered with floral patterns, and at their base are flower beds that bloom in real time, lavender, lilies, camellias, all changing with the rhythm of the music.

Everyone in the kingdom is gathered here, dressed in gowns and suits of soft pastels and rich earth tones, many wearing crowns or clips made of real flowers. The energy in the room hums with joy. Tables along the walls overflow with food and drink: bowls of sugared berries, floral-infused pastries, carved fruit, and sparkling beverages flavored with rosewater, citrus, and honey.

“Rosewater?!? Oh this shit is going to hit so good.” Sam exclaims as he tugs the King over to the drink bar with him. Hyunjin allows the bartender to pour the drinks for them, as he waits, he looks around to analyze the rest of the event. 

At the far end, a stage made of smooth white wood is wrapped in ivy and peonies. Musicians dressed in soft green and gold play elegant songs on silver flutes and glass harps, their music fluttering like butterflies across the space. Dancers glide across the floor, their movements slow and graceful like petals falling from a tree.

Above it all, enchanted lights drift in the air, glowing softly in shades of pink, violet, and gold. They move with the music, twinkling like stars woven into flower crowns.

“Here’s your drink, gentlemen.” The bartender speaks, handing sparkling glasses to David and Hyunjin, being careful with the trade-off. 

“Thank you.” Hyunjin speaks as he keeps the cup in a tight grip between his fingers. Feeling that this very cup is worth more than he can even imagine. Hyunjin is the richest of the land, but if this is the second richest family, he must tread the water carefully. 

The bartender glances at Sam and Hyunjin, pausing before taking the orders of other guests. “Pardon me… but are you…” His eyes squint as he looks at Hyunjin up and down. “King Hwang Hyunjin from the Versaniret Kingdom?” He speaks, his eyebrows bending at the ends. 

Hyunjin, realizing he is starting to be noticed, nods his head and gives a kind smile. “Yes, sir, that is me.” He references David beside him, “and this is my Hand, Sam Swang.”

“So lovely to meet you gentlemen. I hope you are pleased with your drinks and the rest of this ball.” The bartender greets, giving a welcoming smile as he shakes both men’s hands. 

“Lovely to meet you too, sir.” Sam speaks, giving a last nod before they turn and begin to make their rounds around the ballroom. 

It is a tradition for royalty to speak with as many party guests as possible. Especially if many are familiar faces, you must make your presence known. You must give your influence by proving you remember your people and peers. And that is something Hyunjin is very good at. Ever since he was a young boy, his parents’ always taught him to memorize names and faces, greet them with their name and never forget them. Always give a wave or smile if you see them outside of the castle, and spark up a conversation if there’s time. So the social hour of the party will always be a breeze. 

Sam takes a sip of his drink and lets out a satisfied sigh. “Ahh… this drink is rich in flavor and quality. I definitely will be having more of these throughout the night.” He chuckles. 

Hyunjin follows suit and drinks his cup, feeling the coolness flow through his body and right into the pit of his chest. Hitting him in all the right spots. “You’re right… I will be doing the same then.” He chuckles as they clink glasses. 

“Ah well, don’t drink too much this evening, your majesty.” Sam gives his king a certain look. “Remember you have to still have a reputation to uphold. Can’t go yapping about things you shouldn't to possible courts or connections…” He reminds me.

“Ugh.” Hyunjin rolls his eyes and flips his hair from his shoulder to behind his back. “You sound like my mother.” 

Sam shrugs and takes a big gulp from the glass, practically finishing it. “You’re lucky she isn’t here tonight. She’d rip you apart right now for drinking so casually—especially with me.” He chuckles a bit. Imagine the look on Mother Queen’s face if she walked into the ballroom right now and saw her son and Hand be anything but professional at the bar. 

After a few more gulps, their first drinks are finished, and they depart from the bar. 

“Alright… time to make our rounds,” Hyunjin says as he combs through his hair, patting himself down, making sure he looks more than presentable to all the wandering eyes around him. If the mere bartender recognized him and Sam that fast, there’s no doubt everyone in this very building caught him within an instant. 

Sam adjusts himself and pats his king on the back. “Time it is…” He clears his throat and eyes down a path in the corner of the ballroom all the way back around to where he stands. “I’ll be starting with Mrs. Conrad over there by the windows, and I’ll reach all the way to… Mr. Windsor is over here next to the bar.” 

“Well, that means I’ll be talking to Mr. Clara and ending with Mrs. Mallory.” Hyunjin glances at his rounds of people, already mentally preparing his greeting and responses appropriate for each family. 

“Come find me if you need me. You know the drill.” Sam says, already slowly slipping away from the king.

Hyunjin nods his head. “Same with you.” He does one final pat down and soon walks over to Mr. Clara. 

If he’s being honest. Hyunjin only knows a handful of people in the ballroom, and that is on the level of spending time outside of formal settings and not holding formalities with one another. Everybody else is just at the business speaking level. Remain respectful and polite, speak the right set of dialogue, show that you care, but don’t push boundaries, open up, but have some half walls up. It’s all calculated within Hyunjin’s brain. Ever since he was young, he trained on the right things to say, when and how to say them, and what to do if something unexpected arises to change subjects smoothly. 

Due to the fact that Hyunjin has zero details on the host for tonight’s ball, his main goal when speaking with the guests is to gain such details from them. Either what they’ve personally experienced or what they’ve heard from whispers and a chain of words. Anything to give Hyunjin even an ounce of an idea of who set up this grand vision. 

• • • • • •

After making his rounds, Hyunjin puts all the important pieces and points together in his mind. Rerunning through each encounter and interaction as he idles by the bar, waiting for Sam to finish his side. 

“The host is passionate about the work they put all their effort into.” A guest explains to Hyunjin’s inquiries. “I’ve personally worked with their staff, and they were all so kind, I felt like I knew them for years even though we just met.” 

“You know, I remember hearing that the host took the orphaned engineers from the eastern district last year and funded their work. They were so humble about it, too… kept it under wraps and never spoke about it to the public until they were forced to.”

Hyunjin tilted his head, “What do you mean by forced?” He raises a brow.

The guest chuckles softly. “Nothing negative. But when it became more than obvious that the previously-struggling district was suddenly thriving, villagers began to talk. And it all led back to the Lee family.” 

Hyunjin hums to himself, feeling a sense of admiration grow within his heart from all the positive messages from the fellow guests. “They sound… more than just noble.”

That was something many guests had to share. The sheer willingness to do good and put all effort into such good. Hyunjin admires that type of persistence and dedication. It’s something to want to do good, but putting thought and care into it instead of doing the bare minimum is noble. 

“I heard the host is absolutely beautiful. Inside and out. People have told stories of encountering them tonight and how they thought they saw an angel before them. I have yet to see the host, but I believe what they say is true.” 

And angel, you say? Well, Hyunjin will be the judge of that. 

With all the grandeur and the compliments from the guests, Hyunjin has grown rather excited to show face to the host of the evening. Originally coming in with low expectations, Hyunjin is starting to raise the bar and looks forward to the rest of this grand ball. This place isn’t just decorated to impress the guests at face value; it’s decorated to reflect the beautiful soul and spirit of the Lee family. 

As Hyunjin has completed his rounds and pieced everything together in his head, he sees his Hand walking towards him at the bar.

“It went well, I assume?” Sam asks as he leans against the bar counter and watches the social crowd before them shift around routinely but naturally. 

Hyunjin nods his head. “Per usual. I also found more information on our lovely host. They truly are lovely and not too good to be true.” 

“Oh? Do tell.” Sam leans in, his ear close to Hyunjin’s dripping lips, of all the details he has gathered tonight. Letting him in on every guest that told him such facts, and even describing their exact tone and body language when they spoke. Hyunjin remembers every little bit, just in case. 

Sam raises a brow in amusement and nods his head. “Hm… very interesting, indeed.” He glances around. “Speaking of our host, when do you think we’ll finally feast our eyes on them, on this angel?”

“No clue… I hope soon, because a host shouldn’t let their guests go unseen so late into the night.” Hyunjin sighs, glancing around to see if any crowds are gathering. “Maybe I’ll have a look around…”

Before letting the king leave once more, the Hand grips his shoulder tightly. He keeps his tone stern and his voice low as he reminds him. “Hey, don’t forget… You need to meet ladies tonight. We can’t come back to the castle with nothing.” 

Already crushing the excitement to find this mystery host, that they do not even know the gender of, Hyunjin groans and almost melts into the floor below them. “Ohhh my god, why do you need to remind me?” He rolls his eyes and runs his fingers through his hair. “I’ll get to it, okay? And what’s so wrong about just lying to my mother about talking to ladies?” 

“You remember the last time we tried that? She messaged the families you named to confirm your conversations, only to be met with a slap in the face as they denied the interaction ever happened.” Sam looks at Hyunjin sternly. “As much as I understand the frustration and annoyance, we cannot take a shortcut with this. Especially with your mother. The Mother Queen, may I remind you…”

Hyunjin sighs. “You need to stop reminding me of things.” He squints his eyes at his friend before departing to explore the ballroom floor once more. 

Taking note of all the familiar faces of the guests he has just previously spoken to, he looks around to possibly find the host. Thinking back to how many guests described their appearance and energy as angelic, it had to be more than obvious once he found them. But as of right now, Hyunjin has lucked out. Nobody here is unfamiliar, nor is giving that impression. 

The host is for sure taking their damn time. 

Slowly giving up, wanting to retreat to Sam, seeing him having more drinks at the bar, he is suddenly stopped by a presence before him. 

It is a woman. A woman he does not recognize. 

She curtsies before him and gives a warm smile. “Hello there. My apologies if I startled you. My name is Princess Angelina Katlyn from the Kingdom of Drustel.”

Hyunjin, taking on the formalities, bows before this woman. “No apologies needed. My name is King Hwang Hyunjin from the Kingdom of Versaniret. How are you this evening?”

“I am doing well, thank you very much. And how do you do, your majesty?” She smiles.

This Angelina girl is surely sweet. Her voice is on the higher side in the vocal pitch scale, though she speaks very smoothly and eloquently, careful with her words. Her hair is brunette and curly, done up into a bun with silver flowers decorating her skull and curls. Her hazel eyes sparkle as she keeps strong eye contact with Hyunjin. Heavy blush is displayed on her cheeks, which only brightens more with her matching colored pink dress, which flows across her body. She stands before Hyunjin very prim and proper, definitely finding discomfort in the right corset of her dress. 

“I am also doing well, your highness.” He speaks formally. 

The princess extends her hand out and gestures towards a table in the far corner. “May I steal you for a few? You caught my eye the entire night, and I couldn’t continue the night without coming up to you.” 

Those eyes, piercing through Hyunjin’s own strong eyes, somehow hit him right in the chest with how she looks up at him. The way she sways in her step, her soft hands displayed before him, and her utter beauty took him aback once more. Suddenly, the main goal of searching for the host has been abandoned by the dear King’s mind and has been replaced by this new lady before him. 

“You may.” He gives a gentle smile and takes Angelina’s hand into his, then walks calmly to the table together. 

They settle at the small table tucked in the corner, away from the swirl of dancers and social circles. A soft glow from the overhead chandeliers filters down through floral garlands, casting gold across the tablecloth. The distant hum of strings fills the pauses between their words.

Angelina speaks first, smiling softly. “I must say, Your Majesty, this ball has taken me by surprise. I expected another night of stiff collars and empty praise. But this…” She glances around the ballroom with admiration. “It’s lovely, isn’t it?”

Hyunjin nods as he takes a glance around as well. “It is. The setting, the atmosphere—it feels almost… untouched. Like something out of a story.”

“Perhaps we’ve both wandered into a fairytale.”

Hyunjin offers a faint smile. She has an effortless, poised charm. They begin to talk, get to know one another a bit better. Understand their background and history in the royal world. Of their courts. Of shared childhood mischief, running from tutors and sneaking sweets. Of the suffocating expectations of royalty, and the strange comfort in solitude. For a moment, it feels simple. Easy.

Angelina lets out a sigh. “It’s refreshing… finding someone who doesn’t only talk about treaties and bloodlines. I almost forgot we’re royals for a second.”

“Sometimes I wish I could forget entirely.”

A brief silence rests between them, not awkward, but reflective. Hyunjin finds himself wondering, not for the first time tonight, if fate led him to this chair. “There is one thing that helps me forget. Painting.”

“Painting?” Angelina replies, almost perplexed.

Hyunjin nods, a small glint in his eye as he begins to speak about his personal hobby in the castle. “I do. When time allows. It’s quiet work. Private. But it brings me peace. Gives me time away from all the politics and duty. I can breathe properly.”

Angelina tilts her head slightly as she hums to herself. “That’s… interesting.”

“Interesting?”

“Oh - my apologies, I mean no offense. It’s just - painting has always felt a bit… pointless to me, if I’m honest. Beautiful, yes, but what does it do, really? It just hangs there. Doesn’t fix anything,” Angelina responds gently, quickly trying to get the heat off her. 

The candle flickers between them again. But this time, the glow feels cooler.

Hyunjin holds back his tongue and grows quiet, almost withdrawn. “It doesn’t have to fix anything to mean something.”

Angelina responds gently, trying to keep the mood light. “Hm… maybe. I’ve just always found meaning in order. Structure. Tangible results. It’s how I was raised, I suppose.”

“Then you were raised to see the world one way. I was raised to try and understand it.”

A soft silence falls between them. Not cold, not tense, just distant now, like the music playing somewhere far away.

Angelina has realized she has hit a sore spot, trying to retract her steps in any way she can muster right now. “Forgive me. I’ve spoken without thinking.”

Hyunjin, a little hurt, but says nothing of it as he offers a small, polite smile. “There is no offense taken, Princess. We are simply… different in what we hold dear.”

A beat passes. Hyunjin glances over her shoulder, toward the heart of the ballroom. Something stirs in him again, pulling him back to the reason he came here tonight.

“I must beg your pardon. There is someone I’ve been meaning to speak with before the evening ends. I fear I may have let the time slip past me.”

Angelina’s breath hitches. Slightly surprised that Hyunjin has decided to depart from her, but also understands that what she said was not the correct way. “Of course. It was truly a pleasure, Your Majesty.”

With a final nod, he steps away from the table, the weight in his chest settling again. The conversation lingers in his mind only briefly, then it fades, like a brushstroke washed away. The host. That’s who he must find.

• • • • • •

Taking his time walking around, even exiting from the ballroom to explore the castle hallways, he is quickly stopped by his Hand, grabbing him back inside quickly. “Hyunjin-“ He whispered as he was dragged back inside the warm ballroom filled with other body heat. The cool breeze from the empty hallways was quite charming even for a moment. 

“I think I spotted the host.” Sam quickly whispers, glancing around to not catch any unwanted attention. 

Hyunjin’s ears perk up as he practically spins around to see where his long-awaited mystery host is standing. “Where where where-“ He rambles.

Sam grabs the king and stops him from spinning, keeping him facing towards him, and subtly points behind him. His lips were pierced, and his eyes squinted. 

Hyunjin, following the gesture, sees a once-empty balcony, now being filled with a few guests surrounding an unfamiliar figure. Standing in all white, a cropped tux top with a long white flowing skirt attached at the bottom, red rose petals flowing from their shoulders down to the edge of their waistband. 

A crown of soft white blossoms rests lightly in their hair. They glow with a quiet confidence. Gentle yet strong, grounded yet radiant.

Though it is just a view of the back of the host, the way they stand so politely with long flowing blonde hair just curled outwards right at the middle of their shoulders, Hyunjin agreed that the angel description was more than fitting. 

She is the most beautiful and graceful woman I have ever laid my eyes on.

Without hesitation, Hyunjin begins to make his way closer to the balcony with Sam by his side. He tugs at him and whispers. “Hey, Sam. Can you go to her and ask her to write down my name in the next dance space?” He then takes out his small brown card, pushing it onto his Hand’s chest.

“Uhm - why me? Why don’t you go up to her yourself?” Sam tries to push the card back into Hyunjin’s hand. 

“No,” the card is forced into Sam’s hand as he is then pushed towards the balcony stairs, “I want her to see me personally once it is time for our dance.” 

“You’re so- fine. Whatever.” Sam groans as he accepts the task and begins to make his way up the stairs. 

Hyunjin lets out a sigh, feeling his heart racing as he watches Sam make his way into the small crowd surrounding the beautiful host. Princess Lee…

He watches from afar as Sam makes greetings with the woman, seeing only her side profile, but it is clearer than ever that she is a goddess walking on this earth. And he is already jealous that Sam got to experience her beauty up close before him, despite that he sent him up there himself.  

Cards are exchanged, names are written, and Sam nods as he turns away and begins to make his way back down to Hyunjin. Clearing his throat, Hyunjin begins to pat himself down and run his fingers through his hair. Tapping his foot nervously against the floor as Sam holds the card in his hand, walking closer to his position. 

“You got it?” Hyunjin asks as Sam hands back the card, letting out a sigh as he nods. 

“Of course.” Sam smiles, glancing back up at the balcony as Princess Lee continues to make conversation with her special guests. “She is utterly beautiful up close, by the way. Are you sure you can handle all?” He jokes.

Hyunjin nudges him hard in the side, making him fold over for a moment. “Oh shut up.” He checks his card and quickly stuffs it back into his suit pocket. “I will determine that once I dance with her soon.” He shifts in his stance, growing nervous as he now waits for the next dance to begin.

“Did you hear her voice? Was it nice? You know I can’t stand annoying voices…” Hyunjin asks, trying to get as much intel on the host before he finally meets her face-to-face. 

Sam sighs and shakes his head. “No, she smiled brightly at me, nodded when I asked if she could have the next dance card with King Hyunjin of Vesaniret Kingdom . She practically just hummed at me.” 

“Hmm.. interesting. Hopefully, I’ll get more than a nod and hum when she is in front of me.” He says as he watches the social crowds continue before him.

Watching from afar as Hyunjin and Sam share drinks at the bar to pass the time, a new lady comes up to the duo. She is an unfamiliar face, at least not memorable enough through each of their rounds.

“Good evening, gentlemen. Apologies for the intrusion, but I wanted to ask if King Hyunjin would like to share a dance with me?”

Hyunjin and Sam’s heads snap to the side of this new presence, quickly turning their whole bodies and bowing before her. She curtsies in reply. 

“Oh- well…” Hyunjin glances at the brown dance card in his pocket, seeing that one more space is available after Lady Lee. He glances at the young woman before him, glances at a silent Sam, then back at his card. From there, he makes a decision. “I actually have all my dance card spaces filled… I’m so sorry.” Apologies, but my only goal for tonight is Princess Lee.

The woman’s face drops and becomes saddened. It seems that it took her much courage to come up and ask for something simple. 

Sam and Hyunjin take note of this, and they move quickly based on this. Feeling empathy for the rejection. “How about this- I can dance with you. I know I’m not high and mighty King Hyunjin, but I am his Right Hand Man….” 

Sam has volunteered to fill up the woman’s card space. Hopefully, this doesn’t result in himself then being rejected by her, because that would suck with his sudden act of kindness

Fortunately, the woman’s eyes light up, and she quickly puts forth her dance card. “It would be an honor.” She lowers her head and happily accepts the offer. “Besides… you’re pretty cute.” She chuckles. 

Sam’s cheeks become flushed as he begins to write down his name on her dance card, seeing her sign hers on his as well. Hyunjin chuckles at the interaction and nudges him teasingly. 

“I’ll see you later… Sam…” She chuckles and walks away, finding her way back with her social group. Giggling as they steal a glance over at the duo she was just speaking with.  

“Hey, why did you lie? I know you have extra space.” Sam asks as he raises a brow. 

Hyunjin shakes his head and watches as the balcony is now empty, meaning that Princess Lee is now somewhere on the ballroom floor. The dance must be coming up soon. “Once I dance with the host, that is all I need.” He sighs.

Sam chuckles as he shrugs his shoulders and leans against the bar. “If you say so…” He takes one last sip of his drink and watches the ongoers before them. 

• • • • • •

Time passes, and it is finally time for King Hyunjin’s shared dance with Princess Lee.

A soft bell chimes overhead, calling the ballroom to attention. The crowd, once scattered and lively, begins to pair off. It is seen of partners finding one another beneath gilded chandeliers and the warm glow of suspended lanterns. There’s a gentle buzz in the air, a murmur of gowns sweeping across the marble and shoes tapping with purpose. 

“Good luck, man.” Sam claps a firm hand on Hyunjin’s back, offering a crooked grin before stepping off toward the refreshment tables. His own dance comes later.

Hyunjin straightens his posture, inhales deeply, and makes his way toward the center of the room. His shoes echo with each step, quiet but deliberate, as he searches for his assigned partner … Princess Lee.

Eyes scan the crowd. Around him, nobles form elegant pairs: gloved hands meeting in familiarity or stiff diplomacy. The ballroom, once full and scattered, now shapes itself into symmetry. Twos all around him, but no sign of her.

He turns slightly, scanning again, perhaps behind a column? Perhaps seated? His chest tightens faintly. The music is moments away from starting.

Then, he feels a gentle tap on his shoulder. He turns swiftly, and for a moment, the world stills.

A face meets his. Delicate freckles scattered like constellations across pale skin, cheeks rosy from either the wine or the winter air. Warm brown eyes look up at him beneath a fringe of soft blonde curls, and lips, plush and pink, pull into the kindest smile he’s ever seen.

“King Hyunjin?” comes a voice. And it’s unexpected. Not soft and sweet like he imagined. No. It’s low. Smooth. Almost… husky.

Hyunjin blinks. “…Ah.”

The stranger tilts his head slightly, still smiling. “You look surprised.”

“I… wasn’t expecting…” Hyunjin stammers, caught between instinct and etiquette.

The stranger gives a short bow, perfectly poised. “I imagine you were looking for Princess Lee.”

Hyunjin says nothing, trying to catch up. “May I ask - are you…?”

“Prince Lee Felix,” the blonde replies. “The family was not too fond of how many people confuse me to be a woman, that I should be more manly for the future King role… but I’ve always preferred an androgynous presentation. It’s truer to me.” He offers a small shrug. “I understand the surprise - happens more than you’d think.”

There’s no apology in his tone, just honesty. A quiet assertion of identity.

Hyunjin regards him carefully, eyes meeting Felix’s with something like curiosity, not discomfort. Then, he offers a soft shake of the head. “No, I’m not… bothered, if that’s what you’re asking.”

Felix’s gaze sharpens slightly, searching his face. “Truly?”

“I wasn’t thrown off by you,” Hyunjin clarifies. “Just… by my assumption. Which was wrong.”

A smile spreads across Felix’s lips, genuine this time, not the polite kind.

Hyunjin nods, steady now. “Shall we?”

Felix extends his hand, and Hyunjin takes it.

The music begins.

Their bodies fall into step, not perfectly at first, but within seconds, they are moving as though rehearsed, guided by instinct. Felix is light on his feet, expressive in motion, and Hyunjin matches him easily. They twirl and shift through the crowd as though they’ve done this a hundred times before.

And all the while, Hyunjin feels the undeniable fact that he is dancing with a man. And yet… it doesn’t shift anything in him. Not the intrigue. Not the captivation.

If anything, it deepens it.

Felix moves with confidence, but not arrogance. He lets Hyunjin lead without resistance, then steals the lead back with a smile. There’s an unspoken rhythm between them, a pull, a flow, something that feels curiously natural.

Between steps, they speak in low voices.

Of things that rarely surface at royal functions: art, philosophy, and loneliness. Of being misunderstood. Of masks worn and dropped. Felix listens with interest and speaks with passion. Hyunjin finds himself wanting to hear more. Needing to.

There’s laughter. A few grazed hands. Eye contact held too long.

And beneath it all, a growing tension. Not discomfort, but something more delicate, a blooming warmth.

Hyunjin looks at Felix.

And he smiles.

The song fades out, indicating the end of this dance. As the couples slow down, they slowly begin to depart from the floor. Hyunjin and Felix remain by each other. Felix’s eyes remain stuck on Hyunjin’s, which only causes him to almost buckle his knees and fold onto the floor. He usually doesn’t get nervous with some eye contact, but something about Felix, something about his piercing look, draws Hyunjin in so deep that he wants to look away. 

Looking around at the crowd, Hyunjin clears his throat as he tries his best to meet eyes with Felix once more without melting. “I enjoyed that dance with you, your highness…” He gives a polite bow.

Felix chuckles and quickly gestures to him to stand back up straight. “Oh, please, you don’t need to speak so formally to me.” He gives a warm smile. “Just call me Felix, your majesty…” 

“Then you refer to me as Hyunjin… Felix..” Hyunjin replies with the same expression. 

They share a quiet moment together, everyone around them slowly fading and muffling away from them. Just the two in the entire palace, it is oddly comforting despite them meeting for the first time. 

“So, I was wondering if you’d like to—“ Before Hyunjin could get another word out, he was interrupted by a new presence and bellowing voice. 

“Excuse me.” The two snap their heads and see a black haired man with soft features, wearing light blue pants and a top that is layered with a black tuxedo with the same shade of blue accents along the edges. 

Felix’s eyes widen, and he seems to recognize this man. But he doesn’t back away, and he doesn’t move an inch. 

“I would like the next dance with you, Lee Felix.” The man speaks, his eyes stuck on the blonde as a small smirk appears across his lips. His hand is stuck out as his other is stuffed inside his pant pocket. 

The music fades into the background, swallowed by silence. Hyunjin takes a deliberate step forward. His eyes stay fixed on the man before him. Hm, he’s shorter, confident, smug. He straightens his shoulders, voice calm but sharp.

“King Hwang Hyunjin of Vesaniret Kingdom,” he says. “And who do I owe the pleasure?”He doesn’t raise his voice, but his words carry weight. Hyunjin positions himself subtly between Felix and the stranger, not in confrontation, but in quiet protection. Felix is still half a step behind him, his fingertips brushing the back of Hyunjin’s arm like a question he’s unsure how to ask.

The man gives a short laugh and dips his head, just enough to mock respect.

“Pleasure indeed. Prince of the Seungior Kingdom. Heard of it?”

His tone is slick, as if expecting applause. As if he’s waiting for Hyunjin to bow. Hyunjin’s jaw tightens. 

Seungior. That explains it. They’re notoriously closed off, territorial, and closely tied to the Mincci Kingdom. What the hell is he doing here?

But he says nothing, just offers a silent, pointed nod. He won’t give this man the reaction he wants.

“Good,” the prince smirks. “Then you understand why I must ask for Felix’s next dance.”

He extends a hand toward Felix, completely disregarding Hyunjin as if he were a piece of scenery. The arrogance is dizzying.

Felix blinks, lips parting in visible confusion. But after a beat, he places a gentle hand on Hyunjin’s arm and murmurs. “Excuse me…” He steps around him.

Hyunjin’s heart lurches. “Wait.” His voice is low but steady. “Why are you… obligated?”

The question lands like a challenge. There’s something possessive growing inside him. He had danced with Felix. They shared something real. And now it’s being treated like nothing.

The prince laughs, taking Felix’s hand and yanking him a little too forcefully forward. His arm wraps around Felix’s waist in a claim, not an invitation. Instantly, Felix’s shoulders shrink inward, the light behind his eyes flickering. The vibrant energy he had radiated minutes ago is swallowed by this man’s presence.

“Oh,” the prince coos, “you didn’t know?”

He slips his fingers between Felix’s with casual cruelty. Then, slowly, he raises his free hand and trails a finger along Felix’s freckled cheek, tilting his chin upward. Felix’s jaw stiffens. His eyes dart to Hyunjin. A silent, desperate plea. “This is my future husband,” the prince announces with wicked delight. “Proposed to him two months ago. Right by the water mountain in the royal gardens.”

Hyunjin’s breath hitches. What?

Felix’s entire body tenses. He looks like he wants to scream, but can barely breathe. “You - what - ” Felix starts, voice cracking with panic. Then louder. “You proposed. And I said no.”

His voice shatters the air like glass. Conversations nearby pause. Heads turn. A few gasps echo. The prince’s expression doesn’t falter. He just smiles, teeth clenched, voice syrupy and venomous. “No~ I don’t remember anything of the sort~”

And then, in a whisper only Felix can hear, he growls through his teeth. “Watch it.”

His grip tightens, and Felix winces. The tension is suffocating. Hyunjin’s eyes flash. He steps forward, fists clenched. But suddenly. “Hey, man—” Sam’s voice cuts in, a hand grabbing Hyunjin’s arm just before he lunges. “C’mon. Bar’s that way. You’re literally in the middle of everything.”

Hyunjin whips his head around. Sam, smiling nervously, trying to defuse the bomb, nods toward the bar. His dance partner hovers beside him.

Hyunjin hesitates. He glances back. Felix’s eyes meet his one last time. Help me , they beg. But the prince’s hold tightens like a leash, pulling him toward the dance floor. Hyunjin backs away, shoulders trembling, teeth clenched, until he disappears into the crowd.

Hyunjin stands by the bar, knuckling white around a glass he hasn’t touched. His heart pounds in his chest like war drums. On the dance floor, Felix moves stiffly in the arms of the Seungior prince. There’s no rhythm in him now. The way the prince clutches him, like possession, not partnership… it makes Hyunjin’s stomach turn.

“There you are. I was told you’d be by the bar.”

He turns slightly. A woman stands there, tall, elegant, and intentional in her presentation. Violet silk clings to her frame, and an emerald necklace sparkles at her throat. Her confidence suggests she’s not used to being ignored.

 “You’re…?”

“Lady Miralith of Teretha,” she replies smoothly. “Your mother wrote to my family and sent me here. She says we should get to know each other. Before the engagement is official, of course.”

Hyunjin almost laughs. A bitter, breathless laugh.

“I wasn’t told about this.”

“Well, surprise,” a second voice cuts in.

Hyunjin’s head snaps, and there she is. His mother. Mother Queen of Vesaniret, adorned in deep blue silk and a half-smile that doesn’t quite reach her eyes. She steps beside Miralith like the final piece of a long-laid plan.

“Mother,” Hyunjin says, stunned. “What are you doing here?”

“You think I wouldn’t attend a ball this important? And when I heard Lady Miralith would be present… well, I couldn’t pass up the chance to nudge things along.”

“Nudge?” His tone sharpens.

His mother lifts a brow. “You’re not getting any younger. Vesaniret needs an alliance that lasts, not fleeting dances with boys who wear flowers and disappear after midnight.”

That was a jab. A direct one.

Hyunjin’s jaw tightens. “You don’t know anything about him.”

“I know enough. Enough to see you forgetting yourself over someone who doesn’t even belong to you.”

“He doesn’t belong to anyone,” Hyunjin snaps before he can stop himself.

A beat of silence. Even Lady Miralith hesitates.

His mother waves a hand dismissively. “You’re flustered. We’ll speak more later…after you give Lady Miralith the attention she deserves.”

“I’m not interested in—“

“You don’t have to be interested, Hyunjin. You have to be wise.”

He glances at Miralith, who’s still smiling, but her gaze is calculating now, watching him unravel.

“I’m sorry,” he mutters, stepping back, barely breathing.

“Hyunjin,” His mother warns, her voice low. “This is not the time to lose your composure.”

But he’s not listening. His eyes find Felix again, trapped in the prince’s grip, gaze hollow, lips barely moving as if speaking words no one hears.

“Look at him…” Hyunjin whispers under his breath.

Miralith’s brows furrow. “Pardon?”

But Hyunjin has already begun walking. Slowly at first. One step, then another. His heart is pounding so hard it feels like it’s shaking his chest from the inside. His pulse drums in his ears louder than the music. Everything else fades: the scent of liquor, the flash of jewels, the hum of chatter.

All he can see is Felix. The prince whispers something in his ear. Felix stiffens. His hand trembles. And that’s it.

Something inside Hyunjin breaks.

He storms through the crowd, cutting a path between startled guests. He doesn’t stop. He doesn’t think.

And before the prince can even react, Hyunjin grabs Felix by the waist and pulls him sharply out of his arms.

Felix gasps, stumbling into him.

“Let’s get out of here,” Hyunjin says, his voice rough, urgent. “Now.”

The prince barks out a protest. “You can’t just—”

But Hyunjin is already moving, shielding Felix with his body, gripping his wrist like a lifeline as they weave through stunned nobles and whispering onlookers. His mother calls his name. Someone tries to follow. He doesn’t care.

They slip through the ballroom doors and into the quiet, empty corridor.

Only when they’re away from the eyes and the pressure does Hyunjin finally stop. He turns to face Felix, chest heaving, eyes wild and desperate.

“Are you okay? Did he hurt you?”

Felix stares at him, breathless, freckles flushed, eyes wide. And then he shakes his head. Barely. But he shakes his head.

Hyunjin exhales, finally, as if breathing for the first time all night.

“Come on, we gotta hurry out of here …” Hyunjin insists as he allows Felix to lead the way as they begin to make their way around.

The castle stretches behind them, grand and gilded, but Hyunjin and Felix are nothing more than two silhouettes darting through its shadows. The music from the ballroom fades into a ghost of melody, muffled by walls and distance. Their feet begin to pick up as they run along the marveled floors of the palace. 

Hyunjin tugs Felix behind him, or maybe it’s the other way around; he can’t tell anymore. All he knows is the warmth of Felix’s hand in his own, the rush in his veins, and the faintest tug in his chest that tells him he doesn’t want to let go. Not yet.

They round another corner, nearly colliding with a passing attendant, who yelps in surprise before realizing who they are. Felix laughs, giddy and defiant, and pulls Hyunjin down another corridor.

“We’re going to get caught,” Hyunjin says between breaths, though he’s smiling.

“Not if we’re faster,” Felix grins, eyes sparkling.

Another turn. Another hall.

“There’s nowhere left to go!” Hyunjin laughs, slightly out of breath, chest rising and falling.

But Felix just stops before a tall, arched door. There’s a key around his neck, glinting gold beneath the collar of his silken shirt. He tugs it free and slides it into the lock.

Click.

“I was wondering what that key was for…” Hyunjin murmurs, watching the door creak open.

Felix turns, an almost shy smile on his lips. “Come see.”

He steps inside. Hyunjin follows, drawn like a tide. The room is silent. Sacred.

Hyunjin steps into a garden hidden within stone and sky. The walls stretch high above, covered in ivy and creeping vines. Plants of every kind. They’re colorful, wild, tamed, exotic, each thriving in soft moonlight cascading through a glass ceiling. Flowers lean toward the light, their petals half-sleeping.

But what steals Hyunjin’s breath isn’t the flora but the art. Paintings, some famous, some unknown, adorn the walls with reverence. Thick strokes. Portraits. Abstracts. He cranes his neck to take it in. And beneath it, in the far distance, through the open arch of a grand balcony, the kingdom. Silver rooftops, distant lanterns flickering, a gentle fog softening the edges of the world.

Hyunjin is silent.

Felix stands nearby, a little nervous. “I come here when the world feels… too much.”

Hyunjin swallows hard, eyes still wandering. “It’s beautiful.”

Felix chuckles softly. “It’s mine. Every plant I grew them myself. Some took years to bloom.” He gestures toward a shelf of rare orchids. “And the paintings…my parents collected them. That mural was my mother’s idea.”

“They must’ve loved you very much.”

There’s a beat.

Felix’s gaze lowers. “They died a few years ago. Shipwreck. They were trying to explore the Lost Isle - some stupid dream they had…” He trails off. A long silence hangs, soft but heavy.

Hyunjin turns to him slowly. “I’m sorry.”

Felix nods, barely. “After that… I stopped trying to host anything. My family used to joke about how no one wanted me. No husband. No wife. Just a flower boy with dirt under his nails.”

“And yet you threw a ball tonight,” Hyunjin says gently.

“Because it was mine,” Felix replies, more firmly now. “Not theirs. It’s the first time I’ve done anything for myself in years.”

They sit side by side on a stone bench near the balcony. The silence stretches again—comfortable this time.

“So what do you make for yourself, King of Vesaniret?” Felix teases lightly, nudging him with his shoulder.

Hyunjin chuckles under his breath. “Ah. I write sometimes. Poetry, usually. Never show it to anyone.”

“Can I read one?”

“Absolutely not.”

Felix laughs—bright and full.

It makes Hyunjin look at him longer than he means to. “Maybe if you’re lucky,” Hyunjin adds, almost shyly.

“I’m always lucky,” Felix replies, smirking. “Especially tonight.”

Their eyes meet. It lingers again, but not in heat this time. It’s something gentler. Curious. Safe.

“I used to sneak out of etiquette lessons and come here,” Felix says, brushing his fingers across the stone bench. “I would pretend I was a traveler. Or a pirate. Or a ghost haunting my own castle.”

Hyunjin laughs. “I’d believe that last one. You’re practically translucent.”

“Excuse me!” Felix gasps, eyes wide with fake offense.

“I meant it as a compliment. You glow in the moonlight.”

Felix flushes. “Okay, fine. That was smooth.”

They stop near the balcony, the view of the kingdom spilling out before them like a living painting. Wind curls around them.

“What about you?” Felix asks softly. “What were you like as a kid?”

Hyunjin exhales through his nose, leaning against the railing. “Quiet. Polished. Controlled. Everything a prince should be.”

“That sounds awful.” 

Hyunjin nods. “It was. I didn’t know how to just… be.”

Felix glances sideways at him. “And do you know now?”

Hyunjin looks at him. “I think I’m learning.”

They settle onto the bench again, bodies turned toward each other. Their hands don’t touch, but the space between them hums.

“I hate eggplants,” Hyunjin blurts suddenly.

Felix blinks. “…Thank you for your service.”

“I thought we were sharing things.”

“I was going to say I love the rain, but sure. Hatred for eggplants. Very royal of you.”

Hyunjin smirks. “Oh, please, how can anybody hate the rain?”

“That’s exactly how I think too… how can anyone hate it?” Felix chuckles, leaning back on his hands as he admires the night sky before him. 

The air thickens again. This time with something more. Not tension. Not shyness. Something full.

Felix’s voice softens and speaks into the silence between them. “You ever feel like this royalty shit is forced on you?”

Hyunjin’s smile fades, but it’s not gone. It simply becomes something deeper. His mind brings him back to all the memories and experiences he has had gone through all his life in royalty. All the good and bad moments. All the moments he wants to remain in, and all the moments he wishes he could erase. It’s complicated to say the least. 

He lets out a sigh as he comes back to reality. “All the time.”

Felix nods, turning his eyes towards Hyunjin beside him. “And the ball?”

Hyunjin shakes his head. “It was a setup. My mother arranged for me to meet someone. She even flew in a Lady Miralith to propose an alliance. I was supposed to smile, dance, and… fall in love.”

Felix looks over, amused. “Did you?”

“Did I, what?” 

“Fall in love…” Felix speaks quietly, almost afraid that if he speaks loudly, he might break something. 

Hyunjin turns his head. His gaze lingers as he gives a small smile. “I might’ve.”

The air thickens between them.

Felix smiles, a little bashful. “Well… I wouldn’t blame you. I mean, who could resist me?”

“Oh, so you think I’m joking?” Hyunjin raises a brow with a growing smirk across his lips.

Felix tilts his head. “You think I’m… what, then?”

“Resilient,” Hyunjin says without pause. “Passionate. Full of fire, even if the world’s tried to put it out.” He remembers all the conversations he’s had with the fellow guests, connecting all the dots and building Felix’s character right in his head. 

Felix blinks, caught off guard. “You think I’m all that? Even with this little bit of time of knowing one another?”

“Yes,” Hyunjin breathes. “Yes… I do.”

The moment stills. Their knees brush. Their eyes hold. The tension simmers, rising like steam off warm water. One breath. Two. Three. Neither looks away.

Then Felix’s gaze shifts upward. He points. “Look—shooting star.”

Above them, it streaks across the sky like a whisper. A miracle only they’ve seen. Hyunjin closes his eyes instinctively. He doesn’t need to wish, but he does.

And just as the star vanishes, something else falls into his orbit.

Lips.

Soft. Certain. Familiar, but new.

Felix.

Hyunjin’s eyes flutter open in surprise, but he doesn’t pull back. He melts into the kiss, hands curling into Felix’s tux, holding him there like the very sky might fall if he lets go.

Time folds around them, slow and golden, as they press closer, fingers in curls, chests aligned. The kingdom below could burn, and they would not notice.

When they finally part, breath mingling between them, Felix laughs quietly. “Did your wish come true?”

Hyunjin scrunches his nose. “Nah. I wished for more comfortable shoes.”

Felix stares, deadpan. “Seriously?”

Hyunjin grins. “I’m kidding. I wished for exactly what just happened.”

Felix exhales, smiling softly. “Oh. Good.”

And just like that…Another kiss. This one is slower and longer. Certain like a promise.

• • • • • •

Somewhere in the distance, the great clock tower chimes.

Twelve deep bells.

Hyunjin’s smile lingers against Felix’s cheek. “Midnight,” he whispers.

“No princess running off tonight?” Felix teases, leaning into him. Their noses still touch as they’re inches apart, their gentle breaths brushing against each other.

“Mm,” Hyunjin hums. “No princess here.”  He gently threads their fingers together.

“Only a prince who’s found his prince,” he continues. “And plans to make him his king.”

That’s when the door slams open.

“Your Majesty!”

“Your Highness—!”

Their attendants burst through, faces flushed, panicked. Hyunjin’s mother storms in behind them, robes trailing like thunderclouds. Sam’s somewhere in the back, out of breath.

Hyunjin and Felix remain seated, their hands still clasped, but the warmth between them has chilled, not by doubt, but by the weight of a room turning hostile.

“This is outrageous,” someone spits, voice trembling with disbelief. It was Hyunjin's mother.

Sam tries to usher forward, but a guard quickly blocks him with a lengthened arm. He steps back but tries to speak out. "With all due respect, the King and Prince have every right to make their own decisions-"

A cold, hard, and deadly stare is thrown in the Hand's direction by the Mother Queen. Quickly shutting him up, afraid he might be banished from the realm if he spoke any further. He swallows his words and gives an empathetic look in Hyunji's direction. Mounting the words "Sorry...", which is then responded to with a forgiving shake of the head from Hyunjin.

“You’ve known each other for a handful of hours! Yet you cause a scene and take off with one another?"

Hyunjin flinches from the words, but only slightly. His grip on Felix’s hand tightens. He rises slowly, not with anger, but with quiet certainty. "Oh - I caused a scene? Really?" 

"Running off like that? Pushing through crowds of guests, in the middle of a dance, mind you, and taking the Prince? Yes. I do believe you caused a scene." The Mother Queen is persistent, hands on her hips, furrowed brows, and downturned lips.

Hyunjin scoffs, looking off to the side as he takes a breath. Assumingly trying to settle his emotions so as not to cause himself to explode. He does not want to speak disrespectfully to his mother, despite feeling the lack of respect coming from her end. "That Prince - Of Seungior Kingdom, or whatever... you don't think he caused a scene by bringing himself between me and Prince Felix, raising his voice to claim he is to marry him, when in reality his proposal was rejected?" His breath becomes angry just reiterating the situation, "The way he tugged on Felix, not allowing him to make any decision by himself. The way he threatened him if he spoke too much... the way he practically controlled every move he did on the dance floor."

Everybody is silent.

"Oh, but when it is me, I had to have done something wrong... I understand..." Hyunjin speaks, laughing out of pity and nodding to himself. He feels Felix's thumb slowly rub against his hand, giving silent comfort through a tough situation. 

The Mother Queen objects. "That is not true-"

“I’ve felt more seen, more alive, in these few hours than in the years I’ve spent pretending to be what you demanded of me.” His voice cuts clean through the noise. His eyes lock on his mother’s.

“I love him.”

The words drop like stones into water, sending ripples of gasps and whispers across the court. The Queen steps forward. Regal, composed, but ice-cold. “You are making a mockery of your title. Of your ancestors. Of everything you were born to uphold.”

Hyunjin meets her gaze evenly. “Haven't you been talking in my ear for years about me finding somebody to marry? Or is Prince Lee Felix not up to your standards?" He speaks sternly.

“I wanted you to find the perfect bride to marry," she snaps. “Not to chase after passing infatuations. Especially not with a boy whose parents aren’t even here to guide him down the right path.”

The room falls utterly still. Felix freezes.

Hyunjin’s expression changes. Gone is the restraint; his voice turns sharp. “Do not speak of his family like that. They died with honor, more than can be said for half the rulers in the room. You of all people should understand how it must feel to run an entire kingdom by yourself before you have any heirs.”

The Queen’s jaw tightens.

“And why the fuck do you care if he is some boy?" Hyunjin has reached his peak, stepping closer to the confrontational group before him. "You said it yourself - find the perfect bride to marry. That bride is, in actuality, a groom, and it is Prince Lee Felix. I am the one marrying him, not you. I finally did what you asked - yet you come to me with complaints."

She remains silent. Knowing that there is nothing else she can say. If she continues, she will not only lose the fight, but she will lose her son entirely. 

Felix rises slowly and stands beside Hyunjin. Stunned, but moved, eyes glassy. He places a hand over Hyunjin’s.

Hyunjin’s voice softens. “You taught me to lead with strength, Mother. This is what strength looks like. Loving someone in defiance of fear, of tradition, of scorn. Choosing truth over appearances.”

A beat passes.

"If I may..." Felix speaks quietly, slowly rising from the bench and standing beside Hyunjin, appearing a lot more timid compared to the heated King. “I didn’t expect this. I didn't expect to find someone so fond of me, and so willing to take me on as I am."

He takes a beat. "I felt like I was being seen again. Not as a pawn, not as a prince. Just… me. And I never thought I’d get to have something like that.”

He turns toward Hyunjin now, fully, one royal to another, but more than that. “I love you,” Felix says. “Not for the crown. Not for the power. I’d love you if you had nothing. I’d love you even if you couldn’t love me back.”

Hyunjin takes both of Felix’s hands now. “You are the only thing I’m certain of,” he breathes. “You are the softness I didn’t know I needed. I will spend the rest of my life making sure you know that you are not a shadow of your past. You are my future.”

The chamber is silent. The court stares…not in outrage now, but in awe. The Queen says nothing. Her lips press together, but she no longer speaks. Perhaps she sees something in her son she never thought possible: peace.

A minister clears his throat, tentative. “Then… what becomes of our kingdoms?”

Hyunjin lifts his chin.

“They become one. Not by force. Not by tradition. But by choice. And by love.”

He turns to Felix once more, brushing his thumb over the back of his hand. “You’ll be my husband. My partner. My king.”

Felix doesn’t hesitate. “And you, mine.”

The doors to the court remain open, but no one moves to leave. In that sacred stillness, two kingdoms watch the future unfold, unwritten, but certain.

• • • • • •

A Season Later…

The sun pours through the high windows of the great hall. Laughter echoes across the marble. Garlands of gold and white drape the pillars. Two thrones now stand where there was once only one.

Felix, clad in royal white lined with Hyunjin’s crest, smiles as he speaks with guests, his laugh bright, his posture eased. Hyunjin watches him from across the room, heart full. He excuses himself from a councilman and walks over, taking Felix’s hand without a word.

Their wedding bands glint in the light.

“You’re glowing,” Hyunjin murmurs, lips brushing Felix’s ear.

Felix grins. “That’s because I’m married to the most dramatic king in the world.”

“And proud of it.”

They kiss, soft and sure, not caring who watches.

Two kingdoms had tried to cage them. Tradition had tried to separate them.

But love won.

And now, they rule, side by side.

Husbands. Kings. And finally, free.