#i still cannot fathom what exactly about them being twins causes such strife... but oh my goddddd

[oo-li]

me when i uhm uhm uhm /pos

Royal Blood

Female!Reader x Alpha!Seonghwa

Genre: A/B/O, Royalty

Warning: Surprises, Sneaking Around, Domestic Fluff, Panic, Anxiety, Mentions of Poisoning, Yelling, Werewolf Senses

Words: 5.5K

Chapter Four

(Prev//Next) (@starillusion13 @yizhou-time @hannahdinse8)

Prompt: You were a princess in name alone. Unable to perform any of the duties that come with the title. It seemed to be your destiny to live a quiet life. That is until you met someone who refused to see you silenced. Perhaps your fate was wrong all along.

“Sneaking into the princess’ quarters during the day shouldn’t be too much trouble.”

“I know she has no guards, but she’s not completely alone during the day.”

“From what I’ve gathered, we only have a small handful of people to worry about.”

“So then, what is your plan for them?”

“For starters, if you’re willing, you could ask San for a favor.” Hongjoong stated. “As a scholar, San would have the authority to request the princess’ eunuch help him with errands. That way someone you know would keep the eunuch busy and be aware of his current movements. Of course this would only be necessary for the days you wish to visit.”

“Hm, I see your point. Although it is risky to ask such a thing. Wooyoung seems reliable and doesn’t ask questions. San on the other hand…”

“The eunuch isn’t too much of a problem. Now that the princess is confined to her quarters, her eunuch only visits her when the King requests her presence for the royal family gatherings. Those tend to happen on a predictable basis, so the eunuch isn’t really any trouble.”

“Indeed. What of the court ladies?”

“They visit the princess at certain times every day, following a routine. In order to ensure your privacy, Wooyoung could keep an eye on the ladies, making sure they don’t spontaneously return to interrupt you. The two tend to stick together, so it would be easy for Wooyoung to charm them and keep them occupied until they return to their duties.”

“Then that just leaves you as my look-out, simple enough.”

“Unfortunately that’s not the case.”

“What else is there?”

“The royal family. The King has never once visited the princess, and has no reason to. The Queen only ever visits the princess when something happens, or perhaps after a family gathering, but the Crown Prince, he visits sporadically. Of course his visits aren’t as frequent given his current studies, but they are unpredictable. A day you choose to visit could coincidentally be the day he does too, and I cannot fathom the consequences.”

“Hm… so the real problem is the Crown Prince. Everyone else, even the princess’ court ladies and eunuch, keep a distance. He is the only one who cares to see her.”

“Apologies for not having a solution.”

“There’s no need for that. The Crown Prince may visit the princess on a whim, but there are certain days he cannot do that. Since I am to foster a friendship with him, I should know when those days are. Then we can plan accordingly.”

“That should work.”

“It should, but let’s not be hasty. Tell Wooyoung to get friendly with the court ladies, I’ll see if San is reliable. We’ll go from there.”

Seonghwa did like his odds with this plan, as he could have all his bases covered, but he knew patience was important. For the time being he continued making visits at night when he could, and had Wooyoung report to him about his progress. San wasn’t a necessary part of his plan, but he did want to see if he could be trusted. What Seonghwa needed most was people on his side, at the moment all he had was Hongjoong, and Wooyoung by proxy. 

“I didn’t think I’d be seeing much of you.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“I’ve heard all about you and the Crown Prince.” San commented. “You are a Park after all.”

“Yeah, but that’s different. We’re friends, I’d rather spend time with you.”

“Then why not a night out? I bet you could use one.”

“That doesn’t sound like a bad idea, but I’m rather busy at night.”

“I bet.”

“What does that mean?”

“I’m not blind, Seonghwa. I know you’re busy during the day but you’re clearly not getting enough sleep at night. So, my guess, you’re seeing someone. Specifically you’re sneaking around. I presume you don’t want your father knowing.”

“You can say that…”

“So, are you gonna tell me who it is? Wait, are you and Hongjoong-”

“No! San, please.”

“It was just a thought… then who?”

“I can’t say.”

“Hm, why not? You worried I’m gonna tell your father?”

“Would you?”

“Why would I? I’m not acquainted with your father, and what kind of friend would I be if I screwed you over in regards to love.”

“In that case… you could help me with something.”

“Ah, what is it?”

“As a scholar I’m sure you’re busy, so why not bother an eunuch to help you out. I know just the one who’s always looking for some work.”

“Who would that be?”

“The princess’ eunuch.”

“The… wait… are you seeing…”

“…”

“Seonghwa!”

“Quiet!”

“Oh my gosh, I cannot… actually, I can… wow… that explains a lot…”

“Is it obvious…?”

“Honestly, not really. Others might think you’re staying up late to finish something important, but I know you’re a hard worker who wouldn’t sacrifice sleep for such a thing. So of course it has to be about a lover.”

“I guess I can’t fool you.”

“Hardly. If anyone was ever going to marry the princess, it would be you.”

“Why would you say that?”

“Come on, you’re the history enthusiast here. You know how things work when it comes to a princess. Her marriage tends to be some sort of arrangement for power, but lords aren’t exactly eager to be a brother-in-law to the future king, even if their family benefits. Besides, the princess is ill, so it’s likely the royal family won’t bother marrying her off.”

“So then where do I come in?”

“Well, with all that information, if anyone was ever going to approach the princess and want to marry her, it would be out of genuine love. You’re the only person that comes to mind.”

“Really?”

“You knew each other when you were kids, and you’re a Park. It kinda makes sense.”

“That’s where you’re wrong, I’m afraid.”

“What are you talking about?”

“I knew of her in my youth, but never truly met her until now. Also, because I’m a Park I shouldn’t get involved with the royal family in such a way. My father and the King have done great things for the nation, if both families were to become in-laws, other ministers and scholars could argue it’s a conflict of interest.”

“Hm, I see. For generations the Parks and Jeongs have simply worked together but if they were to become family and continue with their current roles, it could get messy. No wonder you’re being so careful, you really don’t want your father to know.”

“He knows.”

“He does!”

“It’s why my father has been piling on my work. He’s trying to keep me busy.”

“Ah, and you’re still going against him, huh?”

“I’m not gonna let him get in my way.”

“So why do you need me to distract the princess’ eunuch? I thought you did night visits?”

“I want to change that.”

“Oh, I see… are you sure that’s a good idea?”

Seonghwa threw a glare. “What do you mean?”

“Well, the Crown Prince visits every now and then, what if he catches you? Actually, aren’t you and the Crown Prince getting acquainted? How’s he gonna feel when he finds out you want to marry the princess?”

“I’ve already considered all that, so you don’t need to worry. I just need to know if you’re on my side, if you’ll help me.”

“Sure, I don’t see why not. I benefit from this, although I want something in return.”

“I’m sure it’s within reason, right?”

“Of course. I just want you to tell me about your dates.”

“San!”

“Come on, I want to know. The princess is such a mystery, and you’re over here sneaking around to see her, it’s so romantic. Please. I can keep a secret.”

“Fine, but if rumors start going around, I will take your head.”

“Deal! So, tell-”

“Later.”

“Awe, come on, just a little snippet. What are her quarters like?”

“Do you like the princess or something?”

“No, no, I’m not gonna steal your girl. I just want to know about the person who’s stolen your heart. That’s all.”

“She… she has her own garden. It’s more beautiful than the royal one.”

“Ah, cute.”

With every base covered things could move forward in Seonghwa’s plan. He wanted to build a good foundation before trying anything. Of course the final part was to figure out when the Crown Prince would be out of his way. At least once or twice a week he’d go to the Crown Prince’s library, simply socializing or discussing current policies. It was more of a mental exercise for the two as they had no say on the matters yet, but it was important to keep up appearances. Eventually Seonghwa got what he wanted.

“I’ll be gone for a few days, so you don’t have to come and find me.”

“Oh, traveling? I heard you haven’t left the palace in quiet some time.”

“Precisely. My father believes it’s best to visit some of the areas outside the palace, see how the people live. I agree. If I am to be King one day, I need to better understand my subjects.”

“That’s a good mentality to have.”

“If you’d like to join me, I don’t see either of our fathers opposing the idea.”

“I’ve lived outside of the palace for a long time, I’m not quiet ready to leave it.”

“I see, perhaps another time.”

“We’ll have plenty more chances for adventures in the future.”

Seonghwa relayed the information to Hongjoong, deciding the day the Crown Prince left was the day he’d visit. Everything was prepared accordingly, and on the chosen day Seonghwa was up before sunrise, going into the markets to pick up a gift and little cakes he had wanted to give you before. As he returned he wound up running into the Crown Prince on his way out.

“I didn’t expect you’d see me off.”

“That wasn’t my intention, but it’s a pleasant encounter. Safe travels, your highness.”

“Thank you, I’ll see you when I return.”

“Until then.”

Seonghwa bowed and waited until the Crown Prince and his entourage were gone. He was excited for the day, eager to see the look on your face. By now San was already giving tasks to the eunuch, and he knew Wooyoung had been getting very friendly with the court ladies. As Seonghwa and Hongjoong made their way to the princess’ quarters he could see Wooyoung and the two court ladies walking together, all laughing.

“I’ll let you know when lunch time is approaching, otherwise, you should have no interruptions.”

“Excellent.”

♦♦♥♦♦

Before leaving Yunho had come to pay you a visit, letting you know he’d be away from the palace for a while. You were a bit jealous that he got to go out and see the world, but he promised to come tell you stories when he got back. You wanted to see him off, but you knew if the Queen caught wind of you sneaking out things would somehow get worse for you. Instead you’d just wait for your brother to return. You figured that perhaps you’d see a bit more of Seonghwa, but you could only hope.

“Princess…”

You heard a whisper as you were eating breakfast, looking around in confusion. You thought maybe you were hearing things but then you heard a knock. Your window was open, which only made things stranger. Then you noticed the silhouette of a person at your door. For a moment you panicked, and then the doors slid open, revealing a familiar face. Your eyes went wide and everything clicked into place.

“Seonghwa!?”

“Good morning, princess.”

“What are you doing here!?” You jumped to your feet. “Seonghwa! What if someone sees you!?”

“I’ve already taken care of everything. No one’s going to bother us.”

“But-”

“Wooyoung is with your court ladies, and San is keeping your eunuch busy today. Hongjoong is my lookout and the Crown Prince is out of the palace. Who could possibly discover us?”

“… you… you really thought of everything… you’re really here…”

“I told you I wanted to see you during the day, and nothing was going to stop me.”

You were still nervous about this whole ordeal, but the more you thought about it the more you were in awe. He had all the important people out of the way. Only misfortune would interrupt this moment. You laughed with joy and hugged Seonghwa tight, still finding the whole scene unbelievable. Seonghwa hugged you back, rubbing circles along your back.

“Alright, alright, you still need to eat breakfast. It’s one of the most important meals of the day.”

“Wait, what about you!? Aren’t you hungry?”

“I’m alright, plus I brought you something.” Seonghwa revealed a small bag, the smell coming from it was divine. “These are fresh from the market.”

“The market? You mean outside the palace?”

“Yes. I woke up extra early to get them for you. I hope you like them.”

“Seonghwa, you didn’t have to.”

“Of course I did, today is a very special day.”

With your mind at ease you happily welcomed Seonghwa to share a meal with you. It made you so giddy you couldn’t contain your smile. Seonghwa insisted on feeding you, wanting you to eat some proper food before you tried the little cakes he had brought. They tasted just as good as they smelled. This was your first time eating something from outside the palace and it was so good.

“Tell me, how does palace food compare to outside food?”

“Hm, I’d say palace food is good and healthy, but there are so many other foods out there that are just so delicious. These little cakes for one you won’t find in here.”

“Wow, I can only imagine the type of foods you’ve had growing up.”

“I’ll see if maybe I can bring you some.”

“You don’t think I could maybe sneak out with you?”

“Ah, weren’t you the one talking about how dangerous it was for me to be here during the day, and now you want to sneak out of the palace?”

“I didn’t think you’d actually figure out a way to sneak in here. Maybe you could get me out of the palace… then again, you’d be in big trouble if we got caught.”

“I’ll think about it though. Sneaking you out at night would be far easier, but the problem will always be the Crown Prince.”

“I know. He won’t be around for a while.”

“So I can come see you lots more.”

After you finished eating you took your medicine, your grimace making Seonghwa chuckle. You both enjoyed the rest of the cakes out in your garden while cuddling atop a blanket. Seonghwa was glad to see you bask in the sun, getting to see you in a new light. Time seemed to move so fast that before he knew it Hongjoong was signalling to him that it was almost noon, and he had to leave.

“Are you gonna visit me tomorrow?”

“I’d like to, but I have to see how everything went today first.”

“Alright, but either way, today was wonderful.”

“I agree. Before I go, I do have a gift for you.”

“A gift?”

“Something to commemorate such a day.”

Seonghwa revealed a small pouch, pulling out a necklace from it. The gold sparkled in the sunlight, and hanging from the chain was a beautiful sun and moon cradled together.

“It’s beautiful, Seonghwa.”

“Then it will match you well.”

Seonghwa moved your hair aside and placed the necklace on you, enjoying the happiness on your face. Being gifted flowers was one thing, but something like this was new.

“I love it.”

“I’m glad you do. I hope it reminds you of me and keeps you company while I am away.”

“Thank you. It’s wonderful!”

You hugged Seonghwa tightly, not wanting him to go, but you knew he had to. You had taken up his morning, and surely he had things to do as well. You were grateful for the time he gave you, and looked forward to more day time visits. Seonghwa didn’t want to leave you either. He could simply hide while your court ladies brought you lunch, but he can’t push his luck on the first day. As he held you in his arms he buried his face in the crook of your neck. Your scent was so faint, it was practically nonexistent, but with his sharp nose he could pick up on the slightest hint of honey sweetness. One day he really wanted to know your scent, but that was a whole other conversation. Although as he held you he picked up on something strange.

Concern immediately showed on his face, but you didn’t see it. Perhaps he was mistaken, but this was such a strange thing to randomly come to mind. He pushed it aside and made sure to part ways on a good note, promising to visit soon. Afterwards he gathered with his people, asking how things went on their end. For Wooyoung nothing of note happened. The ladies did their duty and spent their free time lounging around. Since they were important to the princess they couldn’t be given orders by others, unless such orders came from the King and Queen themselves. As for San, he seems to have made a new friend. The eunuch preferred the consistency of helping one person than just being yanked around all day.

“So the day was a success?”

“I’d say so.”

After lunch Seonghwa returned to his usual tasks. Hongjoong remained by his side, finishing up his own meal.

“Will you be visiting again tomorrow?”

“I want to, but I’d like to try in the afternoon.”

“You mean after lunch?”

“Yes, get a feel for both times and see what works best.”

“That shouldn’t be much of a problem.”

“I don’t think so either. Hongjoong, may I ask for your opinion on something?”

“Such as?”

“The princess expressed a desire to sneak out of the palace. Do you think such a thing is plausible?”

“I think you know the answer. It’s very well possible, but realistically only at night. Even then, doing such a thing is extremely risky. She is still a princess, and if something were to happen, or you get caught, we could all end up dead.”

“I know. I don’t wish to put her in danger but the idea of stepping out of the palace really made her eyes light up. She’s been a prisoner here her whole life, and her cage has only gotten smaller as of late.”

“It’s not really possible now, but when you accomplish your goal, you could certainly venture out together with all the necessary precautions.”

“When? You truly believe in my desires?”

“I do. Either I’ll address you as your majesty one day, or we’ll be buried in the ground. I welcome whichever outcome destiny bestows upon us.”

“I agree.”

♦♦♥♦♦

Seonghwa felt confident with an afternoon visit, planning accordingly and surprising you once more. You welcomed him, and shared a meal once again, enjoying each other’s company out in your garden. This time around Seonghwa brought some of his work, wanting to do something rather mundane with you. The idea was wonderful as it made you feel normal, and less alone. As Seonghwa read his books and jotted down notes you were painting at his side. You wanted to paint him, but you couldn’t do it in secret. If anything you’d ask him about it so he could dress up if he wanted to.

Seonghwa did prefer the early visits, being one of the first people to see you in the morning. He could get you fresh pastries from the market and brighten your day. As he got a bit more comfortable and confident he began sneaking in the moment the court ladies were gone. That way the two of you had as much time as possible. Although something had been bothering him, and he was only aware of it in the morning. He thought he had just been imagining things, but after the first time he made a point to look out for it, and he never failed to find it. Now he just needed to find the source. He had tried to be discrete about it, but you only ever watched him, so of course you’d notice.

“What’s wrong, Seonghwa?”

“… nothing, it’s nothing.”

“I don’t believe that. What is it? I mean…” You took a moment. “I can tell something is up, and if I can help I would like to, but I understand if you don’t want to share…”

“No, no, it’s not that… I don’t want to worry you.”

“What would I worry about?”

“I… when I’m here… in the morning… I keep catching this faint scent of wolfsbane.”

“Wolfsbane? That’s impossible. The only wolfsbane in the palace is in the armory. You haven’t been around there, have you?”

“No. I have no reason to, but it’s bothering me.”

“I don’t smell anything, but then again my senses don’t really work.”

“It’s alright. I could be crazy, but I do want to figure this out.”

“Well, you’re more than welcome to search my quarters if it’ll ease your worries.”

“I don’t want to rummage around your things, that’s incredibly rude.”

“If it helps you I don’t mind.”

“I appreciate that but… have you been feeling alright lately?”

“That depends on what you mean by alright. I haven’t really gotten any worse, or better.”

“Hm…”

“You think you’re getting it from the food? Maybe a guard or something was in the kitchen and the scent of wolfsbane lingered.”

“I haven’t really gotten the scent from there. I’ve also eaten your food before too and nothing ever seemed off with it.”

“Then let’s try something else.”

You moved the table aside, getting closer to Seonghwa and taking his hands in yours. He wasn’t sure what you had in mind, but he’d play along.

“Close your eyes and focus on your sense of smell. I know you said the scent was faint, but with your nose maybe you can find the source.”

“Perhaps.”

“Try it.”

Seonghwa did as you asked, closing his eyes and focusing on his sense of smell. He honed in on the smells of your room, identifying them and moving past them. When he caught a faint whiff of wolfsbane he slowly moved his head. You noticed his actions and let go of his hands, letting him follow the scent. Seonghwa did just that, getting on his hands and knees and moving carefully until he hit a table. He opened his eyes and saw a small bowl, traces of some mysterious liquid lingering.

“What is this?”

“That’s my medicine.”

“Medicine?”

“Yes. I take it every morning. It’s a mix of herbs and stuff. It has a bitter taste, so I take it first before eating.”

  Seonghwa picked up the bowl, taking in a deep breath. He could smell wolfsbane, but he couldn’t be one hundred percent sure this was it. After putting the bowl down he moved closer to you, leaning in and making you move back a bit. When he had initially caught the scent of wolfsbane it had been while close to you. Now that he was following the scent he was led to you again. He wasn’t sure if it was just his fears or not, but he could smell wolfsbane coming from your lips.

“Does the medicine help you?”

“It keeps me healthy. I haven’t gotten worse so I guess it’s working. Why?”

“Don’t drink it tomorrow morning, wait for me.”

“Huh? Seonghwa-”

“Please.”

“You think there’s wolfsbane in my medicine?”

“I don’t know, but I can check tomorrow. Promise you won’t drink it until I come by.”

“Alright, I promise.”

“Good girl.”

Seonghwa hoped he was wrong about this, because just thinking about it was making him worry. The next day couldn’t come fast enough but when it did Seonghwa was with you bright and early. You were of course happy to see him, but you knew he had something else on his mind. You handed him the little bowl that held your medicine, not having a drop of it. He smelled the contents, getting an earthy smell, and he had to admit it really did smell like medicine. Although he did also catch a tiny hint of wolfsbane. He didn’t really ask, but decided to take a sip anyway.

“Seonghwa-”

Before you could finish your words Seonghwa spit out the medicine, a grimace on his face. You could have reminded him of the bitter taste before he did such a thing, but then he merely tossed out the bowl’s contents into your yard.

“Seonghwa! Are you insane!”

“Don’t drink that.”

“Seonghwa!”

“There’s wolfsbane in your medicine.”

“What?”

“I know you probably can’t tell with your senses all numbed up, but I tasted it. You shouldn’t be drinking that.”

“There is no way there’s wolfsbane in my medicine! You’re crazy.”

“I know it sounds that way, but you have to believe me. I may have tasted a bit, but it was there, I’m certain of it.”

“Seonghwa, it’s medicine, and I need it!”

“Do you? Tell me, since you’ve started taking it, have you actually gotten better?”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Think about it, has it actually helped you? Or made things worse?”

“I… I… well… it didn’t really help when I first started taking it… but that was just my body adjusting to the medicine, it doesn’t mean anything.”

“It could.” Seonghwa grabbed your shoulders. “Don’t take the medicine anymore.”

“Seonghwa, I can’t just-”

“Just for a bit, see what happens.”

“Seonghwa…”

“I know, I know.” Seonghwa cradled your face. “What I’m asking is insane, and a lot, but I need you to trust me here. I’m terrified of what this means.”

As crazy as this all sounded, you could tell Seonghwa was being sincere. You didn’t like this, but you’d trust him for now. Besides, you were already skipping your medicine today. There was no way you could get another serving without raising suspicion. Seonghwa hugged you tightly, wanting to make the most of the time you had left, even if he had certainly spoiled the mood. You both did your best to put this behind you, just glad to be in each other’s company. Not to mention your brother would be returning soon, so your days were numbered.

“I’ll be by tomorrow, you’ll keep your promise, right?”

“I will. Promise.”

“Good. I’ll see you tomorrow then.”

“Until then.”

Seonghwa left after putting a smile on your face. Once outside your quarters he was greeted by Hongjoong. Although the boy noticed the serious look on his face.

“I heard a bit of a commotion earlier, is everything alright?”

“No. I need you to investigate who is in charge of the princess’ medicine and meals.”

“Is something wrong?”

“I believe someone is poisoning the princess, has been for years.”

♦♦♥♦♦

You were worried about Seonghwa. Everything he had said, you didn’t want to believe him, but all you could do was trust him. Your sense didn’t work the way they were supposed to. As far as you knew the medicine didn’t even have a smell, yet he could pick up on the details, and even taste wolfsbane. In all honesty you were scared. If you didn’t take your medicine you had no idea what would happen to you. All your life you had been so weak and powerless, believing the medicine you took gave you what little strength you had. Seonghwa didn’t see it that way, and he had no reason to lie to you. He was going to look into things, so you just had to be patient and wait for news. It was probably gonna drive you insane until then.

♦♦♥♦♦

Even though Seonghwa had Hongjoong looking into the situation, there were other things he could do. There was someone he had wanted to meet for a while now, and he finally had a good reason too. When he had a moment in the afternoon he went off to look for a physician. He knocked at the door, getting the attention of the gentleman present. 

“Hello, I’m looking for a physician.”

“Ah, Lord Park, it’s an honor to meet you.” The gentleman bowed. “I’m physician Kang, how can I help you?”

“Aren’t you a royal physician?”

“I am, but considering who your father is, I’m at your service as well.”

“Oh, lucky me. I’ve simply been feeling under the weather and wanted a professional opinion.”

“Of course, come with me and have a seat.”

For privacy’s sake, Seonghwa was led into another room. He took a seat as the physician began his examination.

“Physician-”

“You can just call me Yeosang if that’s easier for you.”

“Yeosang then. I must say, you’re pretty young to be a physician, a royal one at that.”

“I’ve always wanted to heal others, ever since I was little. I studied hard and now here I am.”

“You must be very good to be where you are.”

“I believe so, but I also have some favor with the Crown Prince.”

“Ah, you must be good friends. No wonder he trusts you to attend to him and his family.”

“I’m just doing my job at the end of the day.”

“I suppose you have your hands full dealing with the princess’ illness. I’m sure you take good care of her. I haven’t had a chance to see her since she stopped going on her walks.”

“Just a precaution. Her health is of utmost importance.”

“Really? I’ve heard rumors that the Queen isolated her out of shame.”

“You surely know the palace staff like to gossip.”

“True. How is she though, doing well?”

“Of course.”

“Does she need anything? I’ve wanted to send gifts but I’m not sure what’s appropriate. Do certain medicines work better than others for her?”

“You don’t need to worry about her health, it’s well taken care of. Other gifts would be better to lift her spirits.”

“Hm. Then I guess you must be busy everyday with her medicine.”

“I don’t prepare her medicine.”

“What? You’re her physician though, aren’t you?”

“Yes, but she is royalty. Something of such importance is to be handled by those above me. I know the recipe in case I ever need to prepare it, but that hasn’t come up.”

“At least you’re prepared. I’m glad to know the princess is in good hands.”

Seonghwa left having more questions than answers. At least he hoped Hongjoong had some information. Later in the evening the two met up, sharing a meal and enjoying the quiet atmosphere.

“How was your visit to the physician?”

“Uneventful. I was wrong in believing the physician was involved. Although it only creates more questions. Did you find anything?”

“Not exactly. Since Wooyoung has gotten close to the court ladies I asked him to investigate a bit. He informed me that the court ladies merely pick up the food as everything is prepared by certain employees beforehand.”

“Do you know who?”

“From what I gathered, it seems to be the Queen’s people who deal with the meals and medicine of the princess. It’s not entirely odd, the Queen does the same for the Crown Prince when he is here, but…the Queen herself approves of the food, and her people hand it over to the court ladies. No one else seems to come in contact with it from there.”

“So… it’s the Queen…”

“You don’t seriously think the Queen has been trying to kill her own daughter?”

“Considering all she’s done, and how she treats the princess, is it really that hard to believe?”

“If she really wanted to, she could have done so a long time ago? Why the small doses of wolfsbane then? Why drag it out?”

“I’m not sure, perhaps to make it appear more natural. The princess has been sick since she was a child, many believe the fact she’s still alive today to be some miracle. If she began to slowly deteriorate and then pass away, who would possibly think foul play?”

“Would anyone truly think the princess was murdered if she passed away today?”

“Hongjoong.”

“Apologies, I’m just trying to understand. It doesn’t make sense… dragging it out is just torturous, who would benefit from this?”

“The royal family is meant to be strong, the fact she’s still alive is proof of that, although perhaps this has nothing to do with her.”

“What?”

“The only person who cares for her is the Crown Prince. I wouldn’t put it beneath the Queen to make the princess’ death look more natural for his sake. If anyone would want an investigation, or could even get one, it would be him. If he can accept her death with his own senses as being natural, no one would be the wiser.”

“Would the Queen really do such a thing?”

“Regardless of her reasoning, I don’t doubt it.”

“Are you really gonna tell the princess about this? What if you’re wrong?” 

“Maybe I am, but I won’t hide this from her. She deserves to know what we do and come to her own conclusions.”