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written-in-flowers · 11 months ago

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Be the Light: Pt. 5 (seongjoongxFem!reader)

Pairing: Hongjoong x Seonghwa x Fem!reader | Side pairing(s): Ateez x Fem!reader.

Word count: 5k

Genre: fluff, smut/ AU: historical au, arranged marriage au, polyamorous, royalty au

Summary: YN has spent her entire life in service of Han Sookmyung, Queen of Hanseong. She never dreamed above her station, or that she'd ever be in reach of Sookmyung's concubines, 'The Golden Ones'. But, when secrets are brought to life, her world is turned upside-down.

Warnings: graphic descriptions of violence, heavily referenced torture (briefly), heavily referenced abuse (briefly), heavily referenced sexual abuse (briefly), enslavement, slight gaslighting, lost sibling, political drama, historical drama, joseon!au, concubine!ateez, nsfw content, virgin!reader, polyamory, polygamous, throuple, threesome m/m/f, oral sex (m. and f. receiving/giving), group sex, multiple positions, multiple partners, cunnlingus, vaginal fingering, vaginal sex, virgin sex, virginity discussed.

And a huge, huge thanks to my beta @daesukiii !!! Without them, this wouldn't be as good lol

Taglist: @scarfac3 @tunaasan @lelaleleb @sevngmin148 @meljoongiee @puppyminnnie @sunasmoke22 @kyourixr @yoongiigolden @lynnsqueendom @atinycafe @soocore @ethereally-lyann @blackbutterfly133 @ddaeing @pearlytinyy @iweirdthingsblog @huachengsbestie01 @glintneon123 @watamotee33 @n3atjok3r246 @sousydive @ashrocker123 @baekmond @escape-from-realitys-stuff @yunpointe @Silentcry329 @st4rcig4r @kaaytea @c4tboyxiao @ppprimary

Part 4 < > Part 6

****

They combed the entire palace, but Hongjoong knew they'd never find her. Sookymung lived here her entire life, knowing the secret passages and exits. With her supporters aiding her, she is likely on her way out of the city. Still, Hongjoong and San searched in the northern part of the palace grounds; Yunho and Yeosang searched the west while Jongho and Wooyoung took men to the east. He knew you were safe with Seonghwa in the harem, but he couldn’t help thinking of Sookmyung finding her way in there. Whether it is true or not, Sookmyung will believe you had a hand in this and come for you. She'd told him repeatedly how deeply she trusted you, bordering on being in "love" with you. Hongjoong couldn't stop himself from picturing her sneaking into your chambers, and plunging a knife into you like she'd done to his mother. He couldn't protect her, but he can protect you.

This fight was far from over.

By the time they returned to the harem, he found the other conspirators in the main room awaiting him. Jisoo spotted him first.

"Did you find her?"

"No," he shook his head. "She must have fled into the city. The city watch is on alert, but they won't find her." He looked at Wonshik, "We were betrayed. You said we had support on our side," he snapped at him angrily, "You said they'd stand with us against her. I don't know if you've noticed, but at least half of them defended Sookmyung instead of arresting her."

"It was the Dukes of Daegu, Gongju, and Ulleungdo who defected," Wonshik said. "I am not surprised by this. They have much to lose if Sookmyung is not on the throne. I should have foreseen this outcome-"

"-Yes, you should have," he looked about the room for you, "Where is YN?" He needed to see you.

"She's asleep, Your Grace," Chaewon told him.

"Alone?" His eyebrows raised at this serious oversight. "When Sookmyung is out there?"

"She's being closely guarded," said Jisoo.

"By who?"

"Seojoon and Minho-"

"-No," Hongjoong interrupted, "None of Sookmyung’s old guards. Until they have proven their loyalty to their new queen, I do not want any of the old guards overseeing YN."

"Your Grace," she began, "Seojoon and Minho have proven themselves to be loyal servants to The Crown, not specifically Sookmyung."

"I don't care." He looked to the men behind him. If he should trust any of them, it should be the men who stood at his side. "San, Mingi, I want you to watch over YN."

"Are you-" Mingi began to say, but Hongjoong cut him off.

"-I am. San, you used to be an army captain. Mingi, you worked for pirate hunters. I trust you both to keep her safe."

There are so few people he can trust, he realized. Sookmyung knew about this coupe. Someone within their circle whispered their treason, and she gathered people loyal to her. It is the only explanation. She’d known they’d come for her eventually, but you being revealed as her sister distracted her. Even if she does not get her throne back, she will make sure you suffer. Hongjoong saw, watching San and Mingi leave the room, that he cannot simply let anyone be around you. Sookmyung’s allies may have stationed spies within the palace. One of them might even be ordered to kill you. He’d do everything in his power to make sure that never happened.

“What of the lords from Daegu, Gongju and Ulleungdo?” asked Seonghwa. “They’ll likely still be in the palace, if not already in the city.”

“I vote we round whoever remains,” said Advisor Junhan, “And hold them as hostages. We will send word to their families that unless they bend the knee to Queen YN, their children will continue to be imprisoned here.”

“No,” Wonshik disagreed, “If we do such a thing, we are no better than Sookmyung. We must continue searching for her.”

“But how?” asked Seonghwa. “We don’t have the men to spare for such a search. Besides, a whole host of men is a lot harder to hide.”

“I will write to Changbin,” Jisoo suggested. “He has plenty of connections and people to send about the kingdom for us.”

“Can they be trusted to not speak if captured?” asked Advisor Heechul. “Sookmyung’s methods of interrogation are horrendous. She may discover all she needs to know if she apprehends one of them.”

“They won’t talk,” said Hongjoong quietly. He thought of Naeun, who remained loyal until the very end. “Sookmyung tortured Naeun for hours, and she never said a word. Send word to Changbin,” he told Jisoo, “And tell him to plant his spies in the courts of Daegu, Gongju, and Ulleungdo. If Sookmyung is anywhere near those places, they might find out where.”

“Sookmyung will not make this an easy task,” noted Advisor Junhan. “I personally trained her in combat and martial arts. She is an excellent strategist-”

“-No, she is not,” argued Hongjoong. “She’s built her reputation as a great war strategist on lies and fear. It does not take military know-how to storm a castle and put it to the torch. Sookmyung only succeeded in war because she had advisors much more talented and knowledgeable than herself. Her conquest succeeded because she killed anybody who could possibly oppose her in the future, and installed people loyal to her in their place. That won’t happen again.”

“And what makes you so sure of this?” asked Wonshik, not challenging but curious.

“Because we’re on equal footing this time,” he told him. "She won’t have the support she had before. She's going to be outnumbered and surrounded.” If he's lucky, Sookmyung’s paranoia will cause her to lash out and behave rashly.

“And she’ll have you to contend with now,” added Seonghwa with a small grin.

“Forgive me, Your Grace,” interjected Advisor Junhan, “But you were a concubine for several years. I don’t think the people will-”

“-Hongjoong is the King of Wonju,” Seonghwa snapped. “He is the person the resistance wanted to lead them. He is a skilled swordsman, marksman, horse rider, and combat strategist. He knows Sookmyung just as well as anyone else in this room. If anybody could lead our armies to victory, it would be Hongjoong.”

“Us being her sex slaves will only endear us to the people more.”

It was Yunho who’d spoken. He stepped out from the shadowy doorway, pensive and serious. The healer. The physician. Yunho spent the past eight years personally attending to Sookmyung and her “flowers”. He’d also been the most kind-hearted of them all.

“Everything we know about Sookmyung is not a fact in the kingdom,” he continued. “Those who have witnessed her cruelty only saw a percentage of it. When word reaches the masses that everything they’ve ever heard about her is true, as possibly worse than they believed, they won’t be so hasty to follow her. Just because the dukes who betrayed us side with her does not mean their bannermen or lords under their rule will.”

“Are you suggesting we let the truth come out?”

“Why not? By morning, everyone will know YN is her sister and will be crowned the new queen soon. I think it will do well to tarnish Sookmyung’s reputation a bit further.”

“We could also let it be released that Sookmyung forced YN to participate in her wrongdoings,” Yeosang said from his window perch nearby. “It may cause them to sympathize with her.”

“YN will need all the support she can gather,” said Jisoo. “Sookmyung may have military strength, but the support of the people is a powerful thing. If they see YN is someone they can rally around, they will stand with her.”

Yes, they will. Hongjoong knew the people of Wonju will follow him, and if you’re his wife and he’s your king consort, they will follow you too.

“We must coronate YN as soon as possible,” insisted Wonshik. “The sooner we have a crown on her head and official documents in place, the sooner we can gain support.”

“And when do you suggest we do this, Wonshik?” asked Hongjoong with a challenge in his voice. “Tomorrow morning? We cannot stage a coronation in a day. Besides, a public event might put YN in harm’s way. No, it is too soon.”

“YN must be given time to take in all of this,” Chaewon said from behind Jisoo. “If I may, Your Grace, suggest that we take a small grace period in the meantime? The council can set coronation plans and we can focus on other matters.”

“Other matters?” questioned Hongjoong.

“There is also another event that needs attention,” Jisoo answered. “Your marriage.”

“I would rather we focus our efforts on Sookmyung-” he began, but she intervened.

“A marriage between Hanseong and Wonju will be the distraction we need to buy us time.”

“And an opportunity for her to strike,” he retorted. “I do not want YN anywhere that Sookmyung could reach her.”

“And neither do we,” she said. “The wedding will be held in the palace behind closed doors and heavily guarded, if that pleases you.”

He thought for a moment, then said, “Let us put this to rest for now. I’d like to discuss this further with YN present.”

You likely do not even know about the arrangement. He knew you'd gone through enough for one night, and he wouldn't make it worse. The council, Queen Jisoo and Chaewon left the harem at his dismissal, bowing to him before making their exit. It felt odd having people bow to him. There'd been a time in his life where everybody knew when he was entering or leaving a room. But, they hadn't done that for years. It would be another thing he must get used to again.

He turned to look at the men left in the room: Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, Wooyoung, San, and Jongho. He noticed they each held their veils in their hands. His hands clenched into fists whenever he wore the golden veil, which became a symbol of enslavement. He'd removed the red headband she'd given to single him out from the rest; a token of her affection, she’d claimed. Hongjoong knew better. Hongjoong withdrew the veil tucked into a pocket, and walked over to a nearby brazier. Hongjoong examined the long, sheer material dotted in gold and silver pieces. He remembered when Sookmyung gave it to him.

"You're mine now," he said to himself, recalling that moment in her tent. "And everyone will know it."

Hongjoong thought of his dead mother, laying lifeless and bloody on the floor of their family room. Sookmyung told him if his men laid down their arms, she'd spare his mother and siblings. She didn't. She cut them down without hesitation. Hongjoong's heart ached in his chest, and he breathed deeply. Sookmyung took everything from him: his family, his life, and his dignity. He replayed every awful moment in his mind, and swallowed back his tears. Running his thumb over the smooth jewels, taking in their shape and size, he realized he'd never wear this again. Even if somehow they lost, and she reclaimed her throne, he'd rather die than be her slave. He'll never wear this veil or this headband again. Angrily, Hongjoong threw the two articles into the fire. Standing by the fire, he watched the silk start to singe at the edges. The veil's mesh material began curling outward in certain parts. It felt cleansing, standing beside the burning coals and watching his chains melt. He is his own person.

Then another veil joined the fire. Then another, another, and another. Soon, all eight veils burned in the fire. Hongjoong glanced up to see tears welled up in Yeosang and Yunho's eyes, while Jongho and Seonghwa remained as stoic as himself. They're free now. They might not know what their futures hold, but they are their own men again.

"We will not be slaves again," he promised them, gulping the lump in his throat. "I swear it."

He felt a hand grab his gently, long fingers sliding between his own. Hongjoong looked to see tears escaping Seonghwa's lashes, falling down his cheeks to his sharp jawline. He couldn't help wiping them away with his sleeve.

"You'll never wear those masks again," he told him.

"I'd die first," said Jongho stiffly, gazing into the fire with watery eyes. "I'll slit my own throat before being her property again."

"Do not say such insane things," Yeosang frowned, taking his hand in his own.

"The only throat I want to slit is hers," Wooyoung said through gritted teeth, hands curling into fists at his sides. "She's hurt too many people to stay alive. She's too dangerous." He looked up at Hongjoong, "We have to win, we must stop her."

"We will," he assured him, unable to stop his own tears now.

He stared at them as they cried in the flames. Hongjoong vowed to succeed.

They must succeed.

****

Waking up the next morning felt surreal. You thought you might be lying somewhere between reality and sleep before you sensed a presence near your bed. Panic immediately struck you, and you clutched the sheets around you. The image of Sookmyung standing over your bed, eyes blazing with fury and holding a long knife made you tremble. You knew they wouldn't find her. Sookmyung always got her way, regardless of who she killed to get it. A thousand pleas for mercy bundled in your throat, and you screamed when you felt a hand touch your shoulder.

"Your Majesty, your Majesty!" a soft, gentle voice said over your panicked screams. You swatted at the figure, eyes closed to avoid meeting her eyes.

"Get away! Get away!" you cried, your heart pounding in your ears as the person managed to grab hold of your arms.

Then you felt somebody else at your opposite side, and you moved away from them. It took several minutes to register the white hanboks and the worried expressions of Sookmyung's former handmaidens. Aro, Saehee, Boram, and Dasom stood all around the bed, a bit frightened but mostly concerned. You never realized how similar the women looked. Short and skinny, Sookmyung made them wear their hair in long braids with the red colored daeng'gi at the end. In their pure white hanbok, they became almost indistinguishable. Sookmyung did this on purpose. Not only would she stand out against their white backdrop, but also stand taller and therefore appear more intimidating. Heat filled your cheeks, and you tucked a piece of hair behind your head, feeling embarrassed.

"Forgive me," you coughed, sitting up properly and covering your chest. "I...I didn't..."

"It's alright, Your Majesty," soothed Saehee. The eldest of the four, you often put her in charge of managing the other handmaidens in your absence. She sat beside you, taking your clammy hand in hers, "It's only us here. Nobody is going to hurt you."

"We wanted to see you," admitted Aro. Only fourteen-years-old, you'd spent a good amount of time training her to serve Sookmyung, but she still made mistakes as children do. Something Sookmyung did not forgive easily. "We heard what happened yesterday, and wanted to see if you were alright."

"I had breakfast brought for you," Boram told you, taking a seat on the bed. "You hadn't eaten properly since yesterday, and I knew you'd be hungry." Boram, always considerate and motherly in that sense. Due to her close relationship with the chef's son and her culinary knowledge, you let her handle Sookmyung's meals.

You supposed she'd be preparing your meals now.

“Did you know Mingi and San are outside your door?" whispered Dosam, who crawled onto the bed close to you. "I think they've been there all night." Dosam, while sweet, never hesitated to indulge in gossip. You knew Sookmyung often used her as a spy in the servant's quarters, but Dosam usually lied or told a half-truth. "They almost didn't let us in until we said Queen Jisoo ordered us to come here."

"It's like they didn't trust us!" huffed Boram, arms crossed. "What did they think we'd do? Strangle you?"

"I'm sure they meant no offense, Boram," you assured her. "They're only being cautious." You looked at Dosam, "Did they find her?"

They all shook their heads, and dread filled your stomach. Sookmyung was likely already out of the city, plotting your death as you sit there. You hugged your sheets around your torso, and shuddered. She knew all the passageways into the palace, and you're sure her allies across the city would help her. She could come at any moment, drag you into the dungeon, and torture you to death. The phantom sensation of nails being pulled from your fingers or needles pierced into your skin one by one sickened you. She'd delight in throwing you into The Box, since your discomfort of it amused her. The possibility caused you to flinch at Saehee's touch again.

"But you're safe here," she insisted, rubbing your back gently, "Hongjoong will make sure you're safe."

"Hongjoong?"

"Yes, he's been working closely with the advisors and Queen Jisoo," said Dosam. "I saw him with the Queen when she summoned us to her apartments. They looked like they were having a pretty serious conversation if you ask me.”

"Was my mother there?"

The women paused for a moment. "Which one?" asked Boram, cautiously.

You then remembered the most shocking part of the whole evening. All the confusion from the previous night returned, and added itself into the anxiousness rolling in your stomach. Queen Jisoo and King Siwon were your birth parents. They'd given you to their servants to keep a succession dispute. They'd done it in vain, since it is happening regardless of their efforts. You tried thinking of happy moments you had with the king and queen, but you only saw your mother and father when you did. Chaewon sang you lullabies whenever you had nightmares. Hyungshik always brought you pretty flowers or stones he'd found while tending to the gardens. They made sure you always ate well, and kept up with your studies. You knew you could turn to them in uncertain times. You didn't feel that way with Queen Jisoo, even if she was always kind and considerate of you.

"My mother," you repeated a bit more firmly. "Park Chaewon."

"She's with the queen," said Saehee.

"She was sitting with her and Hongjoong," Dosam told you.

"Did you hear what they were talking about?" asked Aro.

"No," she shook her head. "They stopped talking when I entered the room." You then saw the wayward glance she gave, "But I did hear them at the door."

"What did you hear?" you asked her, somewhat nervous to hear the answer.

Dosam did not answer right away. You recognized her hesitancy, since it was the same cower she'd give Sookmyung. She closed her eyes as if forced to say it, "They were talking about you marrying Hongjoong!"

Everyone on the bed gasped. You sat frozen in place, your brain trying to comprehend what she'd said. For a moment, you worried you may have heard her wrong. "What?"

"I heard Queen Jisoo say that a marriage between Wonju and Hanseong will be good for the future," she said hurriedly, "And that together you and Hongjoong can rebuild the kingdom."

"What? No...No, there's no way she's honestly considering..."

Hongjoong belonged to Sookmyung. He is her favorite flower, her most prized possession. If you married him, whatever plans she had will become especially heinous. Hongjoong's face came to the forefront of your mind. You thought about your conversation with him during the party. He'd told you that you worried so much about others, and rarely yourself. He'd said it in an amused tone, almost as if he found it cute. Hongjoong possibly thinking of you in any capacity outside of formality made your insides churn. You supposed a marriage between you made sense on paper, since he is a prince of Wonju and you're now a queen. But, thinking of marrying Hongjoong made your cheeks burn.

"He is handsome," Saehee noted, "And tender-hearted. I think he will make a fine husband."

"And he's a prince!" added Aro. "Now that Sookmyung isn't around, he can be a prince again."

"He's a king," Saehee corrected her. "His family is dead, right? That means he's King of Wonju now."

"Do you think you'll be his queen consort?" she asked you, bright eyed.

"Maybe," you shrugged. "I'm meant to be the Queen of Hanseong. I don't think we can both marry if we have separate thrones. Who will look over Wonju, if Hongjoong is far away?"

“They can find somebody," Saehee said. "You never know. Perhaps he has a cousin or distant relative somewhere who can handle Wonju for him?"

"Perhaps."

Marrying Hongjoong was meant to be a fantasy of yours. Thinking about being his wife, his closest friend, and confidant was supposed to remain in your head. You'd do your best to avoid looking at or talking to him because you know if you did, you'd fall deeper in love with him. It's similar to your feelings for Seonghwa, who showed you gentleness and reassurance last night. You knew showing too much attention towards them would upset Sookmyung. With her out of way, and word of a possible marriage in the air, the possibilities felt endless.

“Let us get you dressed,” concluded Saehee. “The Queen wishes to speak with you.”

“I can dress myself, Saehee,” you told her, wrapping yourself in the sheets and fixing your hair from your face. “It’s not necessary.”

“You’re going to be The Queen,” she said. “A queen always has handmaidens.”

“Unless…” Aro fiddled with the ribbon in her hair, “You wish to dismiss us?”

You saw the uncertainty show on their faces. None of them looked directly at you, and you frowned.

“Of course, I wouldn’t dismiss any of you,” you implored. “Why would I do such a thing? We have gone through so much together, and I care about each of you deeply.”

“I don’t know,” she shrugged. “You might not wish to have a stupid cry baby as you handmaiden,” she sniffled, and you saw her eyes water. “I’m always so clumsy and-”

“-And when have I shown annoyance at that?” you asked her gently. “When?”

“Never,” she sniffed. “You’re always so kind and patient with me.”

“I’m not a virgin!” Boram blurted out. When you all whipped your heads to her, she winced. “I’m not. I have not been for a long time. I knew the punishment for that, so I never said anything, but I am now. Vernon and I are in love,” she said to you in particular, “And he wants to marry me. I hope that it won’t upset or displease you.”

“Not at all,” you told her, taking her hand in your own. “You are not my property. All of you are free to love and marry freely.” You stood up from the bed, standing straight as you said, “My first order to all of you is to live as you wish. You are all going to remain my handmaidens, but you can do what you please outside of your duties. Wear whatever hanbok you like. Wear your hair however you wish. You belong to yourselves, not me.”

Their smiles lifted your spirits. You picked at the breakfast Boram placed in front of you while she and Dosam prepared a bath nearby. As good as it tasted, you found it hard to enjoy the food. Sookmyung slowly crept her way back into your mind, and you couldn’t stop yourself from thinking of her. Where did she go when she ran from the city guards? Who housed her right now? Did they know she liked to eat before she bathed? That she liked her soup piping hot, and her rice cooked to the perfect softness? You pitied whoever they put in charge of attending her. The poor girl won’t know the danger until it comes. You thought of the serving girl from a few nights ago who’d accidentally spilled wine. The girl lived, but you remember the long lashes on her bare skin and her painful sobs. Sookmyung found pleasure in her pain, but you did not.

“Your Majesty,” Saehee appeared from the hall with a long box and you immediately shook your head.

“-No, I won’t wear that,” you stopped her. “I won’t wear anything that’s hers.” It sounded almost like bringing yourself bad luck.

“This isn’t hers,” the woman insisted. “Queen Jisoo said she had some of her old hanboks stored away, and she thought you may like this one.”

“Oh…”

You watched her remove the top lid as you finished your breakfast. Red with gold cranes circled on the shoulders, several royal seals were painted into the long draped sleeves. The royal dragon emblem was part of the sash over the top coat; pond scenes with cranes and flowers painted along the stripes down the skirt. You recognized it at once. Queen Jisoo wore it at the last royal event she attended before King Siwon’s passing. She’d look regal and elegant. You spotted the same floral pins she’d worn in her hair that day, tucked into the braided bun at the nape of her neck.

“She wants me to wear this?” you asked, reaching forward to touch the soft satin fabric.

“Yes,” she nodded. ��It’s gorgeous, isn’t it?”

She’d chosen this one for a reason. If there’s anyone you should be emulating, it should be The Peoples’ Queen, Queen Han Jisoo. You left the bed for the bath, sinking into the warm water and beginning to scrub yourself. Dosam moved to take the sponge from you, but you held it from her.

“I can bathe myself, Dosam,” you told her with a soft giggle.

“As you wish, Your Majesty.”

The words sounded weird when directed at you. You enjoyed the jasmine scented water as you contemplated the day. People everywhere must know the truth by now. What would things be like when you left the safety of this room? You finished your bath quickly, though you knew you could’ve taken as long as you wanted, and began drying and dressing yourself. Before you could pick up the undergarment layers, Saehee snatched it first.

“Let us at least dress you,” she said. “You’re a queen now. It’s considered an honor to attend to royalty.”

Was it? You certainly never felt honored when you dressed Sookmyung. Still, you allowed the four women to dress you. With each piece they slid onto you, you felt yourself slowly melting away. You’d never worn such finery before, and wearing the eoyeo meori felt different. Slowly, YN the Handmaiden became YN the Queen, and you didn’t know if you liked the queen yet. Sitting in front of the long mirror, looking yourself over as Dosam finished applying lip paint, you realize this is something you’ll be doing every morning. It didn’t matter if you wanted this or not. You must go through with this now, or otherwise all the effort put into it will be in vain.

“You look magnificent,” smiled Aro, who stood aside to look at you. “Hongjoong won’t be able to take his eyes off you.”

“I don’t look like myself,” you touched the smooth skirt between your fingers. “I don’t feel like myself.”

“It’ll take some adjustment, I expect,” assured Saehee. “But, a nice hanbok and a wig doesn’t mean you’re not still YN. You’re YN with a title, that’s all.”

You didn’t know how to explain that it’s more than that. Your sole responsibilities used to only be the handmaidens and Sookmyung. As a queen, everyone in the kingdom is your responsibility. How can you possibly accommodate and please so many people? Particularly people once ruled over by fear and anguish. You liked to think you had your mother, the advisors and Jisoo helping you. They wouldn’t allow you to fail.

“Think of all the good things you can do now that you’re queen,” Aro said, smiling. “You can help so many people.”

You knew she meant well, but that only filled you with more dread.

“And you’ll have Hongjoong beside you,” Dosam smirked, “He’s quite fond of you. I don’t think he’d let you fail.”

‘Fond of you’. Was he? Yes, Hongjoong made kind passive gestures towards you before, but nothing indicating ‘fondness’. As they led you out of your dressing room, you couldn’t imagine Hongjoong being ‘fond’ of you. Every time you thought of his soft giggle or the crinkle of his eyes, Sookmyung's face came up right behind it. You thought of his lips lightly brushing against yours, one hand holding your hand and the other around your waist. He’d taste like mint and smell of cinnamon, a combination that would unravel you in seconds, melting any guard you may have up around him. Hongjoong and you may have not spoken often, yet you could not help imagining that fondness being present.

“Good morning, Your Majesty.”

Seonghwa stood in the main room of the harem with San and Mingi. Yeosang, Yunho, Wooyoung and Jongho all sat around, enjoying a light breakfast spread put out for them. They all stood from their seats when you entered, and you immediately remembered you’d fallen asleep in the harem. Embarrassment filled your cheeks, and you did your best not to look away.

“I’d ask if you slept well,” he said, “But I’m afraid not many of us did.”

“I slept well,” you replied. You felt his eyes taking in every inch of your face, and this did not stop the daydreams from expanding further. Seonghwa and Hongjoong. Sookmyung could have two lovers. Why couldn’t you? “Thank you. I assume it was my mother who asked you to keep watch over me?”

“In fact, it was Hongjoong who insisted we keep you here,” he answered, “I only seconded it.” He approached you, “They’re waiting for you in Queen Jisoo’s residence. San and Mingi are sleeping off their guard duty, but Wooyoung, Yunho and myself will walk you there.”

“What about the other palace guards?”

“Hongjoong said he wasn’t comfortable with any of Sookmyung’s old guards watching over you,” he said. “We’ll be watching over you until you’ve chosen a suitable guard for yourself.”

“Does that displease you, Your Majesty?”

Wooyoung asked this with worry in his voice. You stared at him for a moment. His slim build made it easy for him to slip between trees and scurry through dense bushes like a shadow. You remembered Sookmyung complaining about how he can be so loud, but still able to pass through unnoticed. It’d taken them a week to find him when he’d escaped camp during the war. He’d also been the hardest for Sookmyung to break.

“Not at all, Wooyoung,” you answered him honestly. “I don’t believe I’d feel comfortable around anyone who pledged allegiance to Sookmyung, to be truthful.”

You then noticed the most obvious thing about the men: they did not wear their veils. They’d rid themselves of their shackles, and you smiled softly at them. “Shall we go now?” you asked, taking a timid step forward, “I don’t wish to keep my mother or The Queen waiting any longer.”

“Of course, when you wish, Your Majesty.”

Right. You’re meant to lead. Taking another step, you kept putting one foot in front of the other as the group followed you outside. Yunho and Wooyoung walked ahead, wearing swords at their sides and no longer hiding their faces behind veils. Your handmaidens flanked you, keeping their heads down, while Seonghwa came into step beside you.

“May I accompany you there, Your Majesty?” he asked.

“Yes,” you nodded. “It’s still so odd.”

“What is?”

“To be called ‘Your Majesty’,” you said. “It feels…wrong. It doesn’t suit me.”

“You’re the queen. It’s your title.”

“I still don’t know if I like it.”

“Then, what do you wish to be called?” he asked, “Give me a title and I’ll gladly call you by it.”

You gave it a thought, “Hm, I don’t know.”

“Alright, ‘I-Don’t-Know’,” he smirked, giving you an amused smile.

You laughed at his joke, some of the tension inside you deflating as you reached the harem entrance. The world felt different to you, but you weren’t sure how. You thought you might have woken up in a dream, and you’ll wake up any moment.

“I imagine it will take a while to adjust,” he said when you reached the palanquin. “A lot has changed overnight, and it must be a lot to take in for you.”

“It is,” you admitted with a sigh. You anxiously picked at the inside of your sleeve, standing in front of the palanquin. It wasn’t Sookmyung’s palanquin. Hers had been larger. “Hongjoong is with my mother?”

“He is,” he nodded. “He went ahead with her to talk to the advisors and discuss our next move. I’m sure they’ll inform you once you arrive.”

He let you climb into the palanquin first, then followed you in. Being in a close, intimate space with Seonghwa put you on edge. Light whiffs of sandalwood came from his clothes, which you came to enjoy very quickly. Once the footmen began moving towards the queen’s residency, you spoke.

“Has he slept at all?”

“A bit,” he said. “As I said, not all of us slept very well. The guards are still combing the city for Sookmyung, and word about last night is beginning to spread outside the capital. I imagine everyone will know about you, Sookmyung, and the throne by week’s end.” When saw the anxiousness in your face, he added, “I’m sorry this has happened so quickly, YN, and that you’re not being given sufficient time to adjust. It isn’t fair to anyone, but most of all you.”

“Thank you, Seonghwa,” you gave a soft smile, trying not to notice his round eyes gazing so intently at you. “Thank you for being here.”

“You’re my queen now,” he grinned, “I will be wherever you wish me to be.”

You smiled for a moment, before it instantly faded. “What’s wrong?” he asked, concerned. “Did I say something to offend you?”

“No, no, forgive me. It’s not you,” you insisted. “It’s…” you sighed, “Even with her gone, I still see you as hers. She kept you at such a far distance that it’s almost as if she still owns you.”

“She doesn’t,” he said firmly. “And she doesn’t own you either. We are our own people now. We can be whoever we choose to be,” he then added, “And be with whoever we wish.”

You bit your inner cheek to keep from smiling.

*****

A/N: I'm super sorry I kept everyone waiting so long in between chapters! My mental health, work, and life things really just kept me from really focusing on a single project at a time. I hope this chapter makes up for it! <3

#ateez #ateez fanfic #ateez fanfiction #kim hongjoong #park seonghwa #ateez x reader #seongjoong x reader #hongjoong x reader #seonghwa x reader #jeong yunho #kang yeosang #choi san #song mingi #jung wooyoung #choi jongho #ateez fluff #ateez smut

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cultofdionysusnet · 5 months ago

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Check out this Ateez fic written by Topaz!

Moanday~ Night Version

🌃Pairing: Kang Yeosang x Reader (f)

🌃Genre: smut, pwp

🌃Au: fantasy au, harpy au, royal au, concubine au

🌃Trope: concubine/king

🌃Warnings: penetrative sex, sex at great heights

🌃Rating: 18+, MDNI

🌃Word Count: 275

🌃Summary: As the human concubine to the King of the Harpies, there's some perks to when he visits your bed chambers

🌃divider by @cafekitsune

🌃Day Version | Masterlist | Tongueday

Fucking Yeosang while your upper half was hanging off your balcony always added an extra zing to your sex. The king of the harpies enjoyed the way fear zested your sex, and so, this is how he took you majority of the time.

His moans echoed out to the rocky coast and contested the very waves crashing against the cliffs. Sometimes, if the waves were choppy enough, the salty spray would hit your face.

“Everyone warned me once I got a taste of the cunt of a human, that I'd never fuck one of my kind again,” Yeosang moans behind you again. “They were right to warn me.”

The rough stone of the carven fort that was Yeosang’s Harpy Palace dug into your hips as Yeosang’s girthy cock stretches you out again and again with each thrust. Yeosang bid you to only wear the most diaphanous of clothing, that covered even your face, but did nothing to hide your body. It also did nothing to soften the push of the balcony's edge against your plush body.

“My king,” You cry out, feeling your climax ascend with every rub of Yeosang’s cock against your g-spot.

“Go on,” Yeosang chuckles, “Make every harpy woman in this clutch want to be you, you wanton vixen.”

“I’m the only one that can satisfy your desires,” You moan loudly. “This is the only pussy that you want.”

Yeosang back winged, waving his body behind you. “Only you can satisfy me, concubine.”

The feeling of Yeosang filling you from behind and the roar of the sea below made you moan in fear and lust. It was not a moan of disappointment.

#group: ateez #member: ateez yeosang #genre: smut #au: fantasy au #au: harpy au #au: royalty au #au: concubine au #trope: concubine/king #wc: <1k #type: drabble #rating: mature

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hongism · 1 year ago

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AND IT'S SNOWING... - A WINTER FIC FEST

brought to you by bee (@atzfilm) and caly (@hongism)

tis the season for fics that have absolutely nothing to do with christmas and everything to do with other tomfoolery! (aka we spent an hour and a half trying to figure out how to make our concepts be christmas-themed just to forgo the idea of christmas altogether...) from aliens to fae to the ex-turned-sugar-daddy, tune in this winter season for shenanigans... and it's snowing! ❄

all fics are rated m and not intended for underage audiences. please heed individual warnings attributed to each work.

WINTER BLOSSOM

written by atzfilm pairing: k.yeosang x reader genre: alien au, secret relationship summary: earth abandoned centuries ago, you travel the cosmos alone. you land on a smaller planet, meeting an exiled dweller that calls himself yeosang.

WHAT LIES BENEATH US

written by hongism pairing: c.san x reader genre: college au, established relationship summary: one busy semester is all it took for you and san to find yourselves struggling to find footing in the storm that is your relationship, yet rather than let go, he asked for one more week, one more day, one last chance to help get you back to shore

APRICITY

written by atzfilm pairing: c.jongho x reader genre: faeries au, enemies to lovers summary: with your kingdoms having been at war for centuries, it's only fitting that you would be kidnapped and locked in the room with your sworn enemy – choi jongho.

SWEET JUICE

written by hongism pairing: s.mingi x reader genre: witches/warlocks au, strangers to lovers summary: the new apothecary in your small village is harboring a dark secret, you're certain of it, if only because he bears a starkly familiar crest on his shop sign - one that denotes the presence of magic.

LOVERS IN THE NIGHT

written by atzfilm pairing: j.yunho x reader genre: sugar daddy au, exes to lovers summary: just out of your college with a freshly printed degree, you set out for a job that would fit your somewhat high standards. after a brief scroll through a sugar daddy website and a meeting set-up, you sit across from the one man you didn't expect to see — jeong yunho, your ex-boyfriend and apparently, a millionaire looking for someone to spoil.

SILLAGE

written by hongism pairing: k.hongjoong x reader genre: royalty au, first love summary: sillage — the scent that lingers in air, the trail left in water, the impression made in space after something or someone has been and gone; the trace of someone's perfume — it hardly takes much to fall

SEASONS

written by atzfilm pairing: p.seonghwa x reader genre: blind date au, friends to lovers summary: after failing over and over on every date you've gone on, your friends finally resort to setting you up on a blind date in the hopes of making things go right.

AND THEY WERE ROOMMATES

written by hongism pairing: j.wooyoung x reader genre: roommates au, fake dating summary: you imagine that you've cut yourself a rather decent deal in bagging jung wooyoung as your roommate, and yet, things that seem a little too good to be true have a way of cracking at the seems all too easily.

fics created and written by atzfilm and hongism, 2023. all rights belong to owners. do not copy, emulate, translate, or alter the works in any fashion without permission.

#ateez x reader #ateez smut #ateez fluff #ateez angst #ateez series #hongjoong x reader #seonghwa x reader #yunho x reader #yeosang x reader #wooyoung x reader #san x reader #mingi x reader #jongho x reader #ateez fanfic #winter fic fest 2023 #bee & caly shenanigans !!!!

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peachesyeo · 4 months ago

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Player 1117 0003 - change of route

word count - 2k pairings - gamecharacters!ateez ot8 x fem!reader (ft. txt) genre - fantasy au, dark romance au, obsessive/yandere elements.

chapter warnings - none

author's notes: i apologize for the late update, my assignments are storming towards me like a tornado and i have to focus on that first... i need comments and ideas before i lose interest in writing this story... i'm serious. and also, blog with NO INDICATION of AGE, or ANY POSTS, NO. you will NOT be added to any of the taglist. I will NOT be repeating myself. i apologize for sounding so nasty, but i'm tired of people NOT READING THE TAGLIST RULES. thank you.

thank you @sousydive for beta reading!

back to masterlist?

The royalties of Mist were leaving.

For the entire two weeks that they have been here, you refused to talk to, or even look at Kim Hongjoong. The Prince of Mist kept to his promise and kept a distance away from you, but even though he did, you could always feel his possessive gaze on you.

“Goodbye, little Y/n.” The Queen of Mist says fondly, patting you on the head as Beomgyu, at the back, whines about not being her favourite anymore. Your parents had already bade them farewell prior to this. You said your goodbyes politely, sliding behind Yeonjun smoothly once you were done.

You could feel Hongjoong staring at you.

You look up to the carriage. Hongjoong was indeed staring at you. As your gaze met each other’s, a smug smirk tugged at the corner of Hongjoong’s lips. His lips parted and closed, words soundlessly coming out from his mouth. You glared at him from behind Yeonjun, and he smirked again, disappearing from the carriage window.

“Y/n, are you okay?” A warm hand was placed on your shoulder. Yeonjun looked at you in concern, and your anger dissipated. He must have felt the negativity radiating from you. You shook your head and gathered up a bright smile. “I'm fine, Brother.”

You're not. The Queen of Mist boarded the carriage, and you and your brothers stood at the gate, watching them leave. As the carriage disappeared into the distance, what Hongjoong said replayed in your mind.

“See you soon, my Star.”

You rushed to your room, dismissing all the maids and servants. You headed straight towards your desk, taking out a piece of parchment and a feathered quill.

See you soon? You rolled your eyes. Hongjoong’s threat reminded you of something. You quickly scribbled down the names of the important characters and events of Utopia on the parchment, forming a complicated web upon the paper.

Utopia’s story starts like this: A normal girl Lee Jiwon from a common family had transmigrated into the game after a car accident. She then became the youngest daughter of a fallen noble family in the kingdom of Mist. She then attended the power discovering ceremony when she was thirteen years old, and discovered that she has the power of light and healing - a power only the saintness have. She was then taken to the Temple, where she met Jeong Yunho for the first time. He was the first love interest that the players of Utopia came across.

You drew a line from Yunho’s name to Jiwon, and then you linked both of them to the temple. While at the temple, she also met Kang Yeosang, son of the Southern Duke of Mist. The two met each other at the temple while Jiwon was tending to an injured animal she discovered in the bushes. Yeosang then slowly fell in love with her because of how gentle and kind she was, and so did Yunho. Yunho and Yeosang will then proceed to secretly vye for Jiwon’s affection, but she would be oblivious to it.

You drew a line from Yeosang to the Temple and back to Jiwon.

After spending three years of studying in the Temple, Jiwon will enrol into the Magic Academy of Utopia, becoming a student.

The Magic Academy is a prestigious school attended by royalties and the gifted with magic from all kingdoms. It is built on neutral land, and the closer kingdoms around it are Mist, Miroh and Klaxon It is protected by a mysterious force of power.

In the Academy, Jiwon will then gain the attention of Hongjoong, the crown prince of Mist, because of her status. Hongjoong sent Seonghwa to approach the soon-to-be saintness on his behalf, and the attendant fell in love with her instead. Intrigued by this, Hongjoong decided to approach Jiwon himself.

You drew two more lines, linking Hongjoong, Seonghwa and Jiwon together. Your quill hovered above your name.

You, the villainess Y/n, enters the plot here. You were invited to an event in Mist, and was soon enrolled into the academy. Choi San, the son of the war general of Mist, was picked as your guard. Through him you met Hongjoong’s younger brother, Jung Wooyoung. Through the event, you had fallen in love with Kim Hongjoong, and was jealous of Lee Jiwon. Wooyoung was the one who encouraged you to pick on Jiwon, roping in San to assist you, only to then expose you in front of everyone, resulting in your imprisonment. .

A war between Eternity and Mist began, and you watched your family die before you, before Hongjoong took your head off himself.

You shivered, goosebumps rising across your skin as you drew lines between Wooyoung, San and yourself, before linking your brothers to San.

Although you couldn’t remember what happened next, you knew that Beomgyu was the only person left alive, and was crowned the ruler of Eternity. You stared at his name, before giving out a sigh in frustration.

Your gaze turned to the two more unlinked names: Song Mingi and Choi Jongho.

Mingi is the childhood best friend of Yunho. He had become a love interest after Y/n’s death as he had enrolled in the academy after her event. Jongho, however, was the most mysterious character.

You drew a line from Jongho’s name to another name: ‘Magic Tower’.

The Magic Tower is almost the same as the Magic Academy. However, its learning environment was more harsh and dangerous. Students of the Magic Tower are free to battle and kill each other to take places.

Beomgyu attends the Magic Tower due to his powers.

You bit your lower lip in frustration. You seemed to have found a key, but you have no idea which lock it belongs to.

Carefully, you linked Beomgyu to the Magic Tower, and then to Jongho.

Suddenly, a thought struck you. What if, instead of enrolling into the Magic Academy, you enrol into the Magic Tower?

Besides, you’ll enter the tower one year earlier than him, which means that you do not have to face him. You could just avoid him at the tower and stay with Beomgyu. Since most of the plot happens in the Magic Academy, you can avoid them by going to the Magic Tower.

Right?

Seoul Hospital.

Urgent footsteps echoed off the walls of the cold corridors of the hospital. Kang Taehyun ran as fast as his legs could carry him, apologising profusely to the people he bumped into along his way. His eyes flickered towards the signs in front of the wards, counting them.

06…07…08!

Taehyun stopped abruptly, pushing the door of the hospital ward wide open. Inside, a blonde figure stood up at the sight of him, looking relieved. “Taehyun oppa…”

“How’s Y/n?” Taehyun rushed forwards to the unmoving girl lying on the hospital bed. “What did the doctor say?”

Hiyyih shook her head. She seemed tired, her lips dry and devoid of their usual rosy colour as she sat back down. “They say that they have no idea what happened to her… She just had a shock and slipped into a coma.”

“So she’s okay?” Taehyun’s heart broke at the sight of his little sister on the hospital bed. Hiyyih didn’t answer that, but from her tired expression, Taehyun could only assume the best. “Where’s Kai?”

Hiyyih’s eyes glinted at the mention of her older brother. “He went to check with the doctor about Y/n. I’ve been taking care of her ever since I found her.”

“Thank you.” Taehyun said gratefully. Now that he’s looking directly at Hiyyih, he noticed that she looked terrible - there were bags under her eyes and her skin was paler than usual. She waved her hand, cracking a small smile. “Don’t, we have known each other for years now. Besides, Y/n’s my roommate.”

“Still, I’m glad you discovered her.” Taehyun insisted.

The door opened. Kai stepped in, his eyes lighting up at the sight of Taehyun. “You’re here!” Kai exclaimed, somewhat looking like his younger sister. There were similar bags under his eyes, and Taehyun couldn’t help but feel even more moved. “Yeah, I rushed here as soon as the plane landed.”

“Since you’re here, oppa, I’ll go and take a rest first.” Hiyyih yawned, grabbing her sweater. Kai and Taehyun nodded, as the blonde girl left the ward.

“The doctors say that Y/n’s coma was sudden with no reason.” Kai said, sitting down on the couch where his younger sister had previously rested. “There was no known cause, and Hiyyih said that Y/n doesn’t have any drinking or smoking habits. They sent her down for the CT scan and there was nothing wrong.”

“So she slipped into a coma without knowing why?” Taehyun carefully removed a strand of hair on his sister’s face. “I shouldn’t have flown to Japan…”

Kai paused. He made a face, one that he would wear when he is in a dilemma. Taehyun saw it, and he said, “Is there anything else I should know?”

Kai fiddled with his thumbs. “Well, I know it's an inappropriate time for me to say this, especially when Y/n is lying here, but the VR program for Utopia has a problem.”

Taehyun and Kai have been best friends since young, having known each other when both of them were in diapers. Two years ago, Kai had developed an otome game - a present for his younger sister Hiyyih - and it became so popular that Kai began to gain profit from it. Taehyun was his first investor and the biggest shareholder of his little gaming company, and since then they have been working together.

Recently, Kai had come up with the idea of inducing VR - Virtual Reality - to the game, where players of Utopia can have a more surreal gaming experience. Taehyun had flown to Japan to attend a techshow to know more about it, before he received the call about Y/n.

“That’s not the only problem,” Kai added carefully, watching the frown deepen on Taehyun’s face. “This might sound crazy, but yesterday, when I was trying out the VR version, there was something… weird.”

“What do you mean, ‘weird’?” Taehyun repeated. Kai breathed in deeply.

“You remember the beta version of the villainess route, the one we accidentally released but called back?”

“Yes.” Taehyun remembered, vividly. Kai was spamming his phone with texts and panicking while the rest of his employees tried their best to salvage the situation. Luckily, only one user was able to update the game fully, and they have been trying to contact that player. “It’s about Player 1117, right? Have you found them?”

“No.” Kai shook his head. “But, the thing is, while I was loading the game up to the beta version in the studio, there were some… really weird changes.”

Taehyun raised a brow. “What changes?”

“Remember Y/n, like, the villainess of the game?”

Taehyun almost laughed at that. Yes, he remembered suggesting the name to Kai because he and Y/n had a little squabble, and Taehyun was feeling petty at that time. “Yeah, what about her?”

“She was originally supposed to attend the Magic Academy, right?” Kai questioned, taking out his own phone and tapping away. He then showed the screen to Taehyun. “I was just trying to load the game back, but I just kept failing. When I was going through the cutscene of Y/n’s backstory, it said that she had a big quarrel with her brother about attending the Magic Tower instead of the Magic Academy, so she ran away and left Eternity on her own.”

“How did that happen?” Taehyun grabbed Kai’s phone. On the screen, a picture of a dark haired girl disguised as a young male teenager sitting at an inn, listening to the conversations others were having. Taehyun had not remembered any of their artists showing a storyboard like that in any of their team meetings.

“That’s not the only weird part.” Kai said, taking his phone back. “Remember the villainess was supposed to be powerless?” He paused, waiting for Taehyun to react. “Well, it is said that she developed an ability.”

“What is it?”

“She can turn into an animal at will. More precisely, she can turn into an owl.”

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i do not own the dividers nor pictures used in banner. all credit goes to their original owners.

owner of animated / 18+ banner ; owner of floral divider

#☁️by k #☁️k’s player 1117 series #ateez #ateez x reader #ateez ot8 #ateez fanfic #ateez fic #atz #txt x reader

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lilacmingi · 3 months ago

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EVIL QUEEN (DISNEY VILLAINS AU)

My works are 14+ ONLY. If you’re under 14 DO NOT interact with me or any of my works. NO SPAM-LIKING PLEASE

Pairing: Evil Queen!Yeosang x fem!reader

Word count: 5,970

Yeosang watched as you strolled through town, an annoyingly cheerful smile on your face. Why were you always so happy? What was there to be happy about?

Everyone you passed greeted you with a bright grin, their faces lighting up when they saw you, especially the men. Yeosang grimaced at the sickening sight, observing from his window. He didn't understand why everyone was so fond of you. There was nothing special about you. You were average, dull, and ordinary. Yeosang, however, was royalty. He was powerful, intelligent, and wealthy. He ruled over the kingdom and had an magnificent castle, furnished with only the finest pieces of furniture. He should be the one getting all of the praise and attention, not you.

"Why does everyone like her so much?" He grumbled.

It took everything in him to step away from the window though he wanted to keep watching you. It sounds absurd, watching someone you despise. Yeosang never once stopped to consider that fact. He was too busy keeping tabs on you and peering at you through his large viewing window. When he wasn't doing that, he was watching you through his enchanted mirror.

He paced around his room, taking long strides across the floor, his mind fogged with thoughts of you.

"You need not concern yourself with her, your majesty." His mirror spoke.

"I'll do as I please." Yeosang snapped.

"She is only causing you stress." The mirror continued. "This obsession you have is not good for you."

"It's not an obsession." He hissed. "And how do you know what's good for me?"

"This behavior is no good, your majesty. It will only cause you harm."

"Stay out of my business. What I do is none of your concern."

"Very well." Sighed the mirror.

Yeosang continued stalking around his room, his temper being pushed to its limits. He was already annoyed with you to begin with, then his nosey mirror had to get in his business. He's there for Yeosang to watch the townspeople (and you), not to give him unwanted opinions.

The king had to come up with a solution to this issue. Perhaps he could just try to be better than you. He reached up, running his fingers over the long hair at the base of his neck. Maybe he could grow his hair out more? His hand then moved to his black and purple attire. Maybe wear flashier clothes?

How could he bring more attention to himself?

He was quick to shoot the idea down, thinking it was too foolish. It would never work. He had to come up with another idea.

Yeosang sat in front of the magic mirror that hung in his chambers, a scowl on his face as he did so. "Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's the fairest of them all?"

He already knew the answer.

"As you wish."

The face in the mirror disappeared, an image of you strolling down the street replacing it. You smiled brightly as you waved to everyone. Yeosang glowered at the sight of you. He couldn't understand how the townspeople adored you and fawned over you.

"She's not anything special." He grumbled. "Her looks are mediocre at best. What about mine?"

"It's not just her looks." The mirror spoke.

"I beg your pardon?"

"It's her personality."

"What about her personality?" Yeosang inquired, his tone becoming snappy.

"She's extremely kind to everyone she meets. That is why everyone loves her."

Yeosang let out a scoff. "Please."

"You need not be so sour towards her, your majesty."

"What did I tell you about staying out of my business?"

"I am only looking out for you, your majesty."

"Well, stop."

"She has done nothing wrong. Tell me, what has she done to you personally?"

Yeosang's jaw clenched in annoyance.

"Existed."

"That is not a valid answer."

"You have no right to ask me these questions." He snapped.

"I am only curious."

"She's become the center of attention. I'm supposed to be the one everyone pays attention to. She is only a citizen, I'm royalty."

"Perhaps you should try being nicer." Mirror suggested.

"I am nice. I've never once been unfair or harsh with the people of this town."

"That may be true, but you're not a very friendly king. Y/n goes out on a walk through town every day and is always kind to anyone she meets. You stay cooped up in here."

"And?"

"You should try getting out. Perhaps try and socialize with the townspeople."

"I've heard enough." Yeosang held his hand up. "I don't need you to sit here and nag me."

"I am not nagging. I am merely making suggestions."

Yeosang glared at the mirror before stalking away.

Yeosang was deep in thought as he sat on his throne. He had to do something to get rid of you. Attempting to switch up his appearance to shift the attention to himself was a stupid idea. There had to be another way.

I could have her killed. He thought to himself. Then I wouldn't have to deal with her anymore.

He shook his head at the idea. For some reason, thinking about ridding you from the planet left a bitter taste in his mouth. He had to think of something else.

Moments later, a devious idea popped into his head, one that would surely take all the attention away from you.

Yeosang then began constructing a plan.

For once, he listened to what the mirror had suggested and decided to get out of the castle. His perfectly polished shoes tapped against the cobblestone streets as he strode down them.

With a plan on his mind, he went to your quaint home nestled just outside the trees. He came to a stop in front of your door, giving it a few brisk knocks. You answered shortly after, a look of surprise flashing across your features.

"Oh. Hello, your majesty." You greeted with a small curtsey. "What brings you here?"

"I wanted to invite you to the castle for dinner."

Your eyes widened, cheeks flushing.

"Me?"

Yeosang nodded.

"Why?"

"You see, I've decided to do something special and choose one person to come have dinner at my castle, as well as receive a personal tour of the place."

Your eyes sparkled. "Really?"

"Of course, my dear."

"Wow." You placed your hand over your mouth in shock. "I can't believe this."

"Do you accept my invitation?" King Yeosang asked, awaiting your answer.

"Yes, absolutely!"

"Wonderful. Here are the arrangements." The king retrieved an invitation from inside his coat, handing it over to you.

You stared down at it, the date and time written on the decorative parchment in perfect calligraphy.

"I'll see you then, my dear." Yeosang waved as he walked away, a sinister smirk tugging at his lips once he was turned away from you.

You were immensely excited about having dinner with the king. You always thought he was a rather attractive young man and couldn't help but feel giddy at the fact that he chose you of all people to come to the castle. He could have chosen any one else, but he picked you.

You couldn't help but wonder why he was allowing a citizen to have dinner with him.

King Yeosang has never had anyone by his side. He's ruled the kingdom on his own ever since he took the throne. Perhaps he was holding this dinner to find a queen of his own.

You let out a gasp as the thought crossed your mind. If that was the case, did that mean he was considering you to fill that position?

You were quick to shake the thought away, not wanting to get ahead of yourself.

"There's no way." You chuckled. "That couldn't possibly be it."

Instead of allowing yourself to be delusional, you chose to settle on the possibility that he just wanted to build a better relationship with some of his citizens.

The number of days until your special night with the king dwindled down to zero. You spent all afternoon searching your wardrobe for the perfect dress, planning your look accordingly. You couldn't believe how lucky you were. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity and you didn't want to squander it. This would be your first proper meeting with the king and you wanted to make a good impression.

Once evening rolled around, you got yourself ready for your special night. When you were done, you stepped outside, ready to head towards the castle. You came to a halt when you saw a carriage sitting in front of your home.

"Miss Y/n. The king sent me to bring you to the castle." The coachman informed you.

You were surprised, and somewhat flattered, that he sent a carriage to take you to the castle. You had never experienced anything like that before.

Without wasting a moment more, you stepped inside the carriage, your heart racing.

Yeosang stared out one of the windows in his chambers, watching for you. It didn't take long for the carriage he sent to roll up at the entrance.

"Finally."

The king couldn't stop the evil smirk that tugged at the corner of his mouth. His plan was beginning to be put in motion.

"Your majesty, are you sure this is a good idea?" The mirror asked.

"It's the only way I'll ever be satisfied." Yeosang responded, impassively before striding out of his room and into the foyer.

He put on a fake smile when he greeted you, welcoming you to his home before escorting you to the dining room where he allowed you to take a seat at the opposite end of the large table.

"You have a wonderful home." You complimented as you sat down.

"Thank you." He then called for his kitchen staff to start bringing in the food.

The meal the staff had prepared looked amazing. You thanked them and let them know how delicious it looked.

Yeosang's jaw tightened as he watched the exchange. Even his own staff seemed delighted by your presence and kind compliments. It angered him.

"Just eat it." He demanded, his words coming out much harsher than he intended.

His anger was getting the best of him.

"Oh. Of course." You responded softly, reaching for your fork.

Yeosang gave a sharp glare to the kitchen staff, causing them to scurry out of the room.

"This is really good." You told him.

"Wonderful." He responded, trying to make his tone light.

Yeosang could hardly stand it. You where right there, just mere feet from him. His eyes moved to the steak knife sitting on the table, his mind wandering to dark places.

No. He thought. Stick to the plan.

All he had to do was endure you for the rest of dinner, then his plan would come into play.

"The townspeople are quite fond of you." King Yeosang spoke up.

"They are?"

"Of course. Do you not see them staring?"

You shook your head.

"You don't see everyone looking at you with adoration?"

You shook your head again.

"My." He chuckled. "You're an oblivious one, aren't you?"

"I—"

"The townspeople adore you. Their faces light up when they see you."

"I like to greet everyone I pass down the street."

"So you do." Yeosang murmured.

"Is there something wrong with that, your majesty?" You inquired.

Yes.

"No. Not at all." He lied.

You were so blissfully unaware of what you put him through on a daily basis, it was sickening.

Dinner had ended and Yeosang could finally begin the next part of his plan, but not before you stopped to compliment the cooks on the meal. They were so happy to get that praise from you. Yeosang tried not to let it bother him, but seeing how they smiled at your words made him livid.

"Come along, Y/n." He told you, trying to keep his tone light and friendly.

He led you through the halls, droning on about items in his home. It wasn't anything interesting. He was only trying to waste a bit of time. Without anyone noticing, he slipped something in your drink. Not anything dangerous, just something to make you a little drowsy for a short while, just in case you tried to put up a fight later.

"This painting here has been passed down for centuries." He pointed.

You nodded, feeling your eyelids become a bit heavier.

"Are you alright?" Yeosang asked, feigning concern.

"Just feeling a little sleepy."

"I see. Well, the tour is almost over. There's one last place I would like to show you."

You hummed in acknowledgement, following him down the hallway and through a door. The air becomes significantly more humid as you enter an area with stone walls. You pay no mind to it and continue trailing behind Yeosang.

"This is the dungeon." He told you. "Come closer. Have a look."

You moved towards the only cell, looking at the bars that were rusted with age. Yeosang opened the door causing it to groan and creak.

"It may be old, but it still does the job." Yeosang commented.

You took a step forward towards the opening of the cell.

"It's empty." You mentioned, taking notice of the lack of prisoners in the dungeon.

"It won't be for long."

You were about to ask why when you were shoved forward, falling onto your hands and knees, the sound of the creaky cell door being slammed shut. You gasped, turning to see Yeosang standing outside the prison cell with a smirk on his face.

"Oops. My hand slipped."

You scrambled to your feet, hurrying to the door, grabbing onto the bars, shaking them. The door wouldn't budge.

"The door is stuck."

"Yes. How observant of you." The king spoke in a sarcastic tone.

"I need to get out of here."

"I'm afraid the door is locked, my dear."

"There has to be a key."

"Oh, there is." Yeosang retrieved an old key from his suit jacket's pocket, waving it in the air.

"I... I don't understand."

Oh, Y/n. You're so naive.

"You're trapped." He stated, bluntly.

"But why? I didn't do anything."

The king scoffed. "I believe you need time to think about that."

He turned away, his cape billowing behind him as he left the room. The further he got, the more your heart sank. What did you do? You had never met the king before, so why was he so cross with you?

You slumped down on the cot, your eyelids feeling heavier than they had earlier. You were so tired. Maybe if you went to sleep, you would find out that this was all just a dream.

Yeosang sat in his chambers feeling more proud than ever. His plan actually worked.

"How did it go, your majesty?" Mirror asked.

"All went according to plan."

"Well, how do you feel?"

"Right now? Proud."

"I would like to say I'm happy for you, but I believe you've made a horrible decision."

"Well, I think I made the right decision. You'll see."

The next day, Yeosang sprung out of bed with a pep in his step. He strolled over to the window and looked out. The townspeople appeared to be going about their business, not noticing your lacking presence. He smirked to himself before getting ready for the day.

He spent part of the morning watching everyone through the magic mirror, pleased to see that none of them were questioning why you weren't around.

"Your majesty, don't you think you should check on the girl?" The mirror spoke up.

"Let me see her."

The scene of the town was replaced with you stuck in your prison cell. From the looks of it, you were still sleeping. You were curled up on the little cot with your arms wrapped around your small frame. Yeosang felt his chest tighten at the sight of you, but chose to ignore it.

You looked feeble all curled up like that.

Perhaps he should check on you.

You were still asleep when he arrived, but his footsteps woke you up. You pushed yourself up, your body feeling heavy from sleeping so deeply.

Lifting your head, you saw Yeosang standing outside your cell.

"Good morning, your majesty."

He didn't say anything.

"I don't know what I did, but I'm very sorry." You told him.

He scoffed in response. "You don't even know what you're apologizing for."

Even locked in a prison cell you were still unbearably polite. He hated that.

"If we could just talk about it, I'm sure we could work something out." You reasoned.

"There's nothing to talk about."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah."

"If you're upset about something, especially if it has to do with me, I'm more than willing to listen."

"I don't need you to listen." He snapped.

"I see." You murmured.

Without another word, Yeosang turned away and left the dungeon.

You slumped against the cold wall, your hands resting in your lap as you gripped the fabric of your dress. There was a few stains on it and it felt absolutely filthy. The damp air in the dungeon didn't do you any favors. Your hair was frizzy and your whole body felt sticky from the muggy atmosphere. The situation you were in was dreadful, but you refused to let yourself get discouraged. You weren't the type of person to lose hope so easily.

Yeosang told himself he would only come to see you to bring you food and water. That was all. He refused to go down to the dungeon unless he absolutely had to. However, once night fell, he kept thinking about your curled up figure that he saw this morning through the magic mirror. So, he returned once more to the dungeon with a blanket in hand.

"Here." He threw it into the cell before turning on his heel to leave.

You picked the folded cover up off the concrete floor, dusting it off.

"Thank you." You told Yeosang, your tone warm and sincere.

He froze for a moment, then went on his way without saying a word.

Days passed by, then weeks. Yeosang would watch you through the mirror, sometimes getting a tight feeling in his chest as he observed you trapped in your little cell. He would sometimes come and check on you, bringing you food and water. He tried not to go down to the dungeons any more than he had to, no matter what he was feeling.

You were still kind as ever, greeting him whenever he came down to deliver you a meal. You would ask how his day was and thank him for bringing you food. He hated it. He wanted you to be miserable and it didn't seem like you were.

Yeosang thought things would be different by now. He thought you would be begging to come out of the cell and that everyone in town would forget about you and focus more on him.

He even went out one day just to see if the response towards him would be different since you had been gone for a while.

Everyone he passed greeted him, bowing their heads and murmuring, "Hello, your majesty." But no one seemed happy to see him, even if he gave them his best smile.

He tried to hold in his anger as he continued down the street only to have it boiling over the edge after overhearing some of the male townspeople talking.

"Where's Y/n? I haven't seen her in a while."

"Me either. Now that you mention it, it's been weeks since I saw her out."

"Is she okay?"

"I hope she's not sick or something."

Yeosang didn't stick around to hear anything else.

As soon as he got back to the castle, he rushed to the dungeon, his anger fully taking control.

When he stormed in, you jumped up from your cot, startled by his sudden entrance.

"They're still talking about you. Why are they still talking about you?" He growled angrily.

"I'm sorry, but I don't know what you're talking about."

"The townspeople! All I hear is, 'Where's Y/n? I haven't seen Y/n. I hope Y/n is okay.' and it's infuriating. I'm the king. People should be focused on me."

Your brows pulled together in confusion. "I don't understand."

"You're so oblivious! The guys all look at you with adoration. Their faces light up when you flash them a smile. No one does that to me."

You were taken aback by this revelation. King Yeosang was angry because the people in the kingdom are more focused on you than him? That's why he locked you in here?

"Oh my." You placed your hand over your mouth, processing everything. "I'm so sorry, your majesty."

He only stood, staring you down with an emotionless expression. Even now, you were referring to him as your majesty and being so nice. It made him mad.

"I had no idea. I didn't know everyone felt that way. I was just being kind. I didn't know it effected you so much... or the townspeople."

"Well, now you do."

Yeosang turned around and left the room, unable to stay there any longer. The kindness you had consistently shown him was beginning to eat away at him little by little. He knew if he stayed in that dungeon any longer, he would crack.

He stormed into his chambers, slamming the door behind him.

"I don't understand. I have her trapped in the dungeon but I don't feel any better. The men in the kingdom are asking where she is. She's gone, but they're still talking about her."

"What do the men have to do with this?" The mirror asked.

"Men? No. I didn't—I didn't mean that. I mean the townspeople in general." Yeosang clarified, stumbling over his words.

"I thought you were mad that it wasn't you getting the attention?"

"I am. She's gone, and yet, no one bats an eye I pass. They're all too busy worrying about her. She's just another person living in the kingdom."

"Seems to me like your plan didn't work out the way you had hoped."

"We don't know that yet." Yeosang pointed, angrily.

"Your majesty, it's been weeks. Three to be exact. Nothing has changed. All you've done is make the townspeople worry."

Yeosang's jaw tightened.

This is not what he wanted to hear.

"She's being so nice to me. I locked her in a cell and she hasn't tried to escape. She hasn't even yelled at me. It's driving me crazy." Yeosang ran his fingers through his hair, tugging at the roots out of frustration.

"I think you like her."

"What?"

"I believe your feelings are mixed up. You didn't trap her in the dungeon so you could be the center of attention—you want her all to yourself."

"I beg your pardon?"

"You're angry that she's being nice to you because you feel bad for locking her up and you feel like you don't deserve her kindness." The mirror continued.

"No." Yeosang hissed. "That's not it at all. You think you know everything, but you don't."

"You're easier to read than you think, your majesty."

Yeosang was ready to smash the mirror to pieces. Instead, he grabbed a cape and threw it over the mirror, covering it up before storming off.

"You'll realize it sooner or later." Mirror told him just before he left the room.

Needing to be somewhere alone to simmer down, he went to the balcony overlooking his garden. His fingers gripped the concrete railing as he clenched and unclenched his jaw, his chest moving up and down as he tried to steady his breathing.

Was the mirror right?

Yes. His subconscious answered.

Yeosang squeezed his eyes shut.

There's no way he liked you. He couldn't possibly like you. Everyone liked you, but not him. No way.

If that was the case, why did his heart feel warm every time you spoke to him?

His head dropped as realization hit him.

Yeosang liked you. He liked you a lot.

And he locked you up. You've been alone in that dusty, old cell for three weeks. He hardly spoke to you, hardly gave you things besides food, water, and a single blanket. He was horrible. Why did he think that was a good idea? Feeling heavy with regret, he stepped back inside, heading down to the dungeon, dragging his feet as he went.

You heard the light thump of shoes against the stone steps, watching as Yeosang entered the dungeon, his head hanging low. His body language was unusual. Normally, he came striding into the room with a sour look on his face, but today was different—much different.

You watched as Yeosang pulled a key from his coat, placing it into the lock on the cell door. There was a quiet, metal sound as he jiggled the key, followed by a click as the cell door was pulled open.

"Go." He said.

"I'm sorry?"

"I said go." Yeosang didn't make eye contact with you as he stood with the cell door open. "Locking you in here was a horrible idea. I don't know what I was thinking. You can go back home."

You slowly stepped out of the cell. Then, you did what Yeosang never expected you to do.

Instead of running out of the dungeon, you hugged him. His body stiffened in response.

"You're a lot kinder than you realize." You told him.

You pulled away, giving him a warm smile.

"Goodbye, your majesty."

You were more than relieved to finally be set free. You hated being trapped in that cell, but you knew you'd be set free eventually. Seeing that Yeosang seemed to come to his senses was reassuring.

You had a lot of time to think while you were locked up. First, you thought about how deceiving Yeosang was. He always seemed like a nice person, but he wasn't. Then, you began to realize he was just troubled, lonely, and confused. Despite having a negative outlook on him at first, you decided to be nice. That's just the type of person you were. Seeing that you were now able to go home, you couldn't help but think that maybe all that kindness paid off.

As you headed up the steps and out of the dungeon, Yeosang called for you.

"Wait!"

Hurried footsteps followed after as he tried to catch up with you. You paused, wanting to see what he would say.

"Your dress is dirty and I'm sure you'd like to bathe."

He was right. You desperately wanted (and needed) a bath. You didn't exactly have access to amenities like a bathtub while locked up.

"I—"

"Please." He cut you off before you could even begin your sentence. "It's the least I can do after what I put you through."

"Okay." You nodded.

He let out a huff of relief. "Follow me."

You wanted to be wary of his offer and wonder if he had some ulterior motive—a second trap for you to fall into, but you couldn't seem to think that way. Based on the way he came dragging into the dungeon, you could tell he was feeling immense guilt.

Once upstairs, Yeosang led you to a bathroom where he asked you to wait while he got you a fresh change of clothes.

When he returned, he still wouldn't look you in the eye.

"Here you go. It's all I have."

You glanced down to see a folded up dress shirt and a pair of navy trousers.

You thanked him and stepped into the bathroom, your eyes immediately landing on a shower. Though you'd be thankful for anything, you were happy to see that the king had a shower. You were filthy and preferred to shower rather than sit in a tub full of dirt and other yuck that's built up over the past few weeks.

After thoroughly cleaning yourself, you felt much better. The clothes Yeosang had provided you with were a little baggy, but nothing you couldn't handle. You looked down at your soiled dress as you left the bathroom.

"I owe you an apology."

You jumped at the voice, lifting your gaze to find Yeosang standing in the hallway.

Did he wait for you?

"I shouldn't have locked you up. My reasoning was completely uncalled for. I was being selfish. I don't know what I was thinking."

"Thank you, your majesty."

"Don't." He held his hand up. "I don't deserve that title. Just Yeosang is fine."

He still wouldn't look at you. His eyes wandered anywhere but your face; he was ashamed. He was a king for goodness sake. He shouldn't have been acting the way he has been. While avoiding eye contact with you, he saw the dress you wore when you first arrived to the castle. It was a little stained and looked dingy from being exposed to the humid air and dirty floors

"I can have that cleaned for you." He spoke up, gesturing to your dress.

"Oh. That's alright." You politely declined.

"No. I insist. Please, just let me do this for you."

You gave in, handing the dress over to him. If getting your dress cleaned would make him feel better, you would allow him to do so.

"Thank you." He bowed his head. "Can we talk?"

"I suppose."

He handed the dress off to one of his castle staff and the two of you went out in the garden. You kept your arms wrapped around yourself, feeling the awkward tension in the air.

"I need to explain why I did what I did." He took in a deep breath, preparing himself. "At first, I was angry that you were getting all the attention because I felt it should have been me. I thought that's why I was mad. Then, I realized the real reason why I felt that way. I was jealous that the men in the kingdom were fond of you and so I locked you up to have you all to myself."

You were taken aback. Hearing his sudden confession made the whole situation a lot weirder.

"Goodness." You muttered. "I... I don't know what to say."

"You don't have to say anything. I just wanted to get it all out there."

If Yeosang was jealous and wanted you all to himself, did that mean he liked you?

You turned to the king.

"Thank you for telling me. I think I'll be going home now."

"Wait. Do you want something to eat? I can have my cooks make something."

"No thank you. I think I just want to go home."

He seemed upset, but nodded. "I understand. I'll get your dress back to you as soon as possible."

You bid the king farewell and left. The atmosphere between the two of you was awkward. He was feeling guilty for what he did and appeared to be trying to make up for his behavior. You were forgiving, but didn't really feel like staying at the castle any longer than you had to.

A few days passed and you returned to regular life, falling back into your normal routine. Some of the townspeople bombarded you with questions, many of them genuinely concerned about your abrupt disappearance.

"Are you alright?"

"Where have you been?"

"Did something happen?"

You just brushed them off, saying that you were feeling a little under the weather. Despite what you went through, you wouldn't dare tell anyone what Yeosang did. You wanted to keep it to yourself.

You were currently at home reorganizing your bookshelf when there was a knock at your door. You put a pause on what you were doing and went to see who was at the door. Upon answering, you saw a box sitting on your doorstep. You also saw Yeosang hurrying away.

"Hey." You called out.

He froze, slowly turning around.

"What are you doing?" You asked.

"I was just returning your dress." He said.

You picked up the box adorned with a gold bow, glancing down at it.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome." He nodded. "Well, I'll be going now."

"Wait."

He stopped, turning back towards you.

"I have so many questions."

You'd be lying if you said you hadn't been thinking about what Yeosang told you. It's all you thought about since returning home. You weren't sure how to accept his apology or even if you wanted to.

You always thought the king was handsome and you did kind of wanted him to like you, but after what he put you through, you were reconsidering the way you felt about him.

You watched from your front door as Yeosang chewed nervously on his bottom lip before speaking up.

"I'll answer them."

Minutes later, you found yourself sitting on your patio with Yeosang seated across from you.

"I'm going to be honest with you, I thought you were a wonderful person. I was so excited when I was invited to the castle, but you tricked me."

"I know. I'm truly sorry."

"Yes, well, I appreciate your apology." You pressed your lips together. "I do want to know something, though."

"What is it?"

"Why did you want to keep me all to yourself?"

"I told you it was jealousy, but it was also the fact that I like you."

"You didn't really act like it."

"I know." He fiddled with the rings on his fingers, clearly nervous.

"I'm not a vengeful person, you know. I also meant what I said that day. You are kinder than you realize. You locked me in a cell for three weeks, but you were also able to come to your senses and do the right thing. So, I'm choosing to forgive you."

"You are?"

You nodded.

Yeosang felt like some of the weight that had been on him was lifted when you said that. However, he knew he would have a long way to go. After realizing just how much he liked you, he wanted to right his wrong and maybe even get a chance to make you his for real—the right way.

"I hope it's not too much to ask, but I would like it if we could get to know each other the proper way. I'm sure you don't have the same feelings as I do, especially after what I did to you. But, at the least, I'd like to be friends with you."

"Friends?" You questioned.

He nodded.

You knew Yeosang meant well and that he truly had changed, but it would take some time to fully trust him. Pursuing a relationship with him was something that was currently out of the question, but maybe in time you could work towards that.

"Truth is, I've always thought you were a handsome person. Of course, I don't know all that much about you."

"Right." He nodded.

"We can start with being friends." You told him. "We can work from there."

"That's alright. I absolutely understand. Truthfully, I'm just thankful that you haven't decided to shun me—or worse."

"I told you, I'm not a vengeful person."

Silence settled between the two of you.

"Well, I'd better get going." Yeosang stood up absurdly. "Thank you for your time."

He quickly said his goodbyes and started to head out.

"Yeosang." You called out.

He paused. "Yes?"

"I'm always open to spending time together. Just let me know."

A soft smile pulled at his lips as he nodded. "Will do."

With a final wave, he went on his way.

You were well aware of how odd your situation was. You agreed to try and be friends with a man who trapped you in a prison cell. However, he was a troubled man and someone who clearly didn't have his thoughts together. He needed someone to show him the right path and that someone was you.

Hongjoong: Hades ⟡ Seonghwa: Maleficent ⟡ Yunho: Captain Hook ⟡ San: Cruella de Vil ⟡ Mingi: Dr. Facilier ⟡ Wooyoung: Hyena ⟡ Jongho: Gaston

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elysiangroundsforall · 8 months ago

Text

Love & War

"Everything is fair in love and war"

CH-1

As Seonghwa emerged from the assembly hall, the administrative minister of the king, Jung Wooyoung, greeted him with a respectful nod. "Congratulations, Hyung," Wooyoung offered warmly.

"Thank you, Wooyoung," Seonghwa replied with a nod of acknowledgment.

"The king has requested me to escort you to your palace," Wooyoung continued, his tone respectful yet tinged with an air of formality. Seonghwa simply nodded in response, his mind already occupied with thoughts of the challenges and responsibilities that lay ahead.

As they exited the palace, two ornate palanquins awaited them, resplendent in hues of gold and red. Seonghwa settled into one, his thoughts momentarily diverted by the memory of the finance minister's envious glare. He knew well the source of the man's resentment—his own meteoric rise to prominence at a young age, culminating in his appointment as the general of Korea's most formidable army.

Lost in contemplation, Seonghwa hardly noticed the journey as the palanquins traversed the bustling streets, eventually arriving at the Gladiolus Palace. Stepping out onto the marble courtyard, Seonghwa was instantly engulfed by an aura of opulence and grandeur that seemed to permeate every corner of the magnificent estate.

Towering pillars, adorned with intricate carvings, reached towards the heavens, casting graceful shadows across the courtyard. The gentle melody of cascading fountains filled the air, their crystalline waters shimmering in the sunlight, adding to the palace's ethereal beauty.

In that moment, Seonghwa couldn't help but feel a surge of pride and determination, knowing that this palace, now his own, would serve as a symbol of his achievements and the king's trust. Yet, beneath the surface of his elation, he remained keenly aware of the challenges and adversaries that awaited him in the corridors of power. Gazing around in awe, Seonghwa found himself captivated by the unparalleled beauty that enveloped him. The grandeur of the palace was nothing short of breathtaking. Whispers lingered in the air, hinting at the palace's storied past—a legacy intertwined with the illustrious history of Goguryeo. Legends spoke of its origins, tracing its lineage back to the queen of the realm's inaugural monarch. However, following her exile, the palace had been sanctified, designated solely for those who had earned the king's utmost trust and reverence.

As he walked through the corridors, the weight of his title and responsibilities settled upon his shoulders. The Gladiolus Palace would now be his home, a symbol of his elevated status and the king's favor. But amidst the splendor, Seonghwa couldn't shake the lingering sense of unease—the knowledge that envy and resentment lurked in the shadows, waiting to test his resolve and ambition.

"You are nothing but worthless, your very existence is futile!" Y/N endured the scathing verbal assault from her aunt, the queen of Baekje, her words laced with disdain.

Before Y/N could even muster a response, she felt the sting of a hunter's strike from the crown prince of the kingdom, Yoon Taehyun. Each blow intensified, accompanied by harsh admonishments, leaving Y/N pleading for mercy, her cries falling on deaf ears.

As Y/N endured the cruel punishment, her younger brother, Jisung, stood resolute outside the store room, determined to rescue his sister from her tormentors. With a heavy heart, he retreated to his quarters, penning a letter to his friend, Kang Yeosang, a military strategist in the Goguryeo empire, outlining their plan for Y/N's escape.

"Dear Hyung,

I trust this letter finds you well. The time has come to set our plan in motion. I implore you to find a suitable suitor for my sister, one who will treat her with the kindness and respect she deserves. I will endeavor to free her from her captivity by the 29th of this month.

Regards,

Prince Jisung of Baekje"

Jisung entrusted the letter to his messenger with a sense of urgency, urging him to expedite its delivery to Yeosang without delay. The messenger embarked on his journey, traversing the vast expanse between the kingdoms until he reached the majestic capital city of Onyeosanseong within three days' time. Upon his arrival, he diligently inquired and navigated through the bustling corridors of the palace until he finally located Yeosang in his office chambers.

With a solemn bow, Yeosang received the letter and swiftly perused its contents, his expression grave as he absorbed the weight of its message. After confirming its authenticity, Yeosang dispatched the messenger back to Jisung with a firm nod of assurance.

With the groundwork laid, Yeosang wasted no time in seeking an audience with the king, determined to set their plan into motion. Bowed respectfully before the monarch, Yeosang broached the sensitive subject at hand, his words measured yet impassioned.

"My lord, there is a matter of utmost importance that requires your attention," Yeosang began, his voice resonating with a sense of urgency.

The king, intrigued, granted his permission with a nod of approval, signaling for Yeosang to continue.

"This may come as a surprise, but I share a longstanding friendship with Prince Jisung of Baekje. We were childhood companions during his time in our kingdom, and he recently confided in me regarding a troubling discovery," Yeosang explained, his tone tinged with solemnity as he relayed the distressing revelation.

He recounted the grim tale of Princess Y/N's harrowing ordeal, detailing her years of unspeakable suffering at the hands of the Baekje monarchy. As he spoke, the gravity of the situation hung heavy in the air, compelling the king to listen intently, his expression a mixture of shock and concern.

Moved by the plight of his niece, the king's resolve solidified, his determination to rescue her from her torment unwavering. Thus, with the foundation laid and the king's support secured, their daring plan to liberate Princess Y/N from her captors began to take shape.

"We have devised a plan, My lord," Yeosang announced with conviction, his voice steady and resolute.

"What is it?" the king inquired, his interest piqued by Yeosang's determined demeanor.

"We believe that securing a marriage for her within our kingdom may offer Princess Y/N a chance at salvation," Yeosang explained, his words measured yet infused with empathy.

"But wouldn't arranging a marriage proposal pose a significant risk, given her precarious situation?" the king interjected, his brow furrowing with concern.

"We have devised a plan, My lord," Yeosang announced with conviction, his voice steady and resolute.

"What is it?" the king inquired, his interest piqued by Yeosang's determined demeanor.

"We believe that securing a marriage for her within our kingdom may offer Princess Y/N a chance at salvation," Yeosang explained, his words measured yet infused with empathy.

"But wouldn't arranging a marriage proposal pose a significant risk, given her precarious situation?" the king interjected, his brow furrowing with concern.

"That is precisely why we propose to clandestinely extricate her from Baekje and solemnize the marriage within the confines of Goguryeo," Yeosang countered, his gaze unwavering as he outlined the intricacies of their plan.

The king considered Yeosang's proposal thoughtfully, recognizing the gravity of the situation. "You have my permission," he declared finally, his voice carrying the weight of authority.

"Do you have a candidate in mind?" the king inquired, his gaze fixed intently on Yeosang.

"General Park Seonghwa, my lord," Yeosang revealed without hesitation, his tone reflecting his unwavering confidence in the choice.

The king's expression softened at the mention of Seonghwa's name, a flicker of paternal affection crossing his features. "I hold General Seonghwa in high regard, but to marry him to a woman who has endured such suffering... I am uncertain if it is the right course of action," he confessed, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

Yeosang met the king's gaze with unwavering resolve. "My lord, General Seonghwa's reputation may precede him as a man of formidable demeanor, known for his stern and unwavering nature on the battlefield. However, beneath this seemingly cold exterior lies a heart capable of profound compassion and understanding," Yeosang asserted, his tone resolute yet earnest. "While he may have earned a reputation for his strict discipline and ruthless tactics in warfare, his loyalty and sense of duty are unparalleled. It is this very sense of duty that makes him an ideal candidate to safeguard Princess Y/N's well-being," he continued, emphasizing the depth of character hidden beneath the general's imposing facade.

"Very well, give me tomorrow's time to have an audience with him," the king remarked, his tone carrying a weight of authority and contemplation.

Ch 2>>

#ateez #seonghwa #park seonghwa #hongjoong #medival #ancient korea #royalty #au #historical #general #wooyoung #san #yeosang #mingi #yunho #jongho #love #war #tw abuse #princess

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the-midnight-blooms · 4 months ago

Text

visions of you | cs

masterlist

Trope: Forbidden Love

Choi San.

Borne from the roots of a pious tree, sprung from the ashes of his father's shadow was the Kingdom of Qiān's esteemed Crown Prince, scholar, charming bachelor and skilled swordsman. His name roamed in the villages of foreign nations, where the people believed his rubric was the elixir of eternal strength and beauty. For his mere presence intoxicated weakened souls, harbouring an essence of rebirth within the individuals that sook a replenished health. Though it was merely an old wives tale, Choi San was indeed a potent, renown individual who rose to power after the death of his predecessor: King Choi.

King Choi, on to contrary to his beloved son, was by no means the greatest King to ever rule over the ambitious lands neither was he the poorest. Though, he was the reaction intermediate, used to form something much more powerful. A much more historical ruler ascended to the throne in his wake.

The once coddled prince, who spent his carefree childhood sauntering the seven seas, reading books until the stars blurred into the dawn, playing chess with the strategists, could no longer escape from responsibility. His father's weakened hold on his hand had almost drained the life out of him. Momentarily, he had felt soul meander towards his ancestors; though they had rejected him.

Show them how powerful a King can be.

Hunched over a small desk, in a large tent, sat Lieutenant Seok- Qiān's first female high-ranking officer. With a quill fixed between her nimble fingers and a sore back, she scribbled away at her commanding officers report transcribing his poorly written work for the King. The dim light from the candle swayed in the desolate tent, bending to the will of small wisps of wind that flooded in through the slits between canvas fabric. With a tired sigh, she settled down her pen at last exercising the tense fibres in her muscles. A patter of loud footsteps ascended from outside the tent, her head piqued up as the fabric tore revealing Major Seong, his eyebrows creased in irritation as he stalked towards her.

"Hand me that." Snatching the sheet in front of her, her hands remained hovered in the air repressing the urge to roll her eyes at his short-tempered antics. His stern, hazel eyes peered over the sheet down at her as she stretched out her arms to correct the complacent stiffness. "King San requests your attendance his office. Major Baek will be there too." Momentarily, the Lieutenant felt a pulse of shock run through. The King requests my presence? She wasn’t aware that the esteemed King knew who she was. After all, her superiors had made many attempts to dissolve the rumours of there being a female military official. It didn't occur to her why, surely that was something to be proud of, yes- it defied convention but this could potentially further Qiān's image internationally catalysing the need for society to become modernised. Besides the Royal Army had, historically, suffered from a shortage of its members-if women had to fill the shoes of men then so be it. Unfortunately, her commanding officers did not share her contemporary mindset so she left the advocation for her less passive successor.

"Hurry up or it'll be off with our heads." Major Seong deadpanned, apologising profusely she shot out of her seat grabbing her jacket off the back off the chair before disappearing out of the tent.

Lieutenant Seok dashed through the ostentatious palace walls, her boots smacking against the marble floor heart pounding against her chest. Fixing the lapel of her jacket, she snatched a quick glance at her appearance through the blade of the guard's spear.

Chin up, chest out, shoulders back, stomach in.

A slight nod, and the heavy doors to the King's office were heaved open, the crystal white paint of the room blaring in her eyes. At the top, first and foremost sat the King's ebony chair and desk, along the expanse of the wall behind him was a bookcase full of books, the vestigial walls plastered with portraits of the preceding Kings. Large royal blue velvet curtains hung over baroque windows, reminiscent of the crests symbolic metallic silver and deep blue colours. Her own uniform was a navy blue jacket, shoulders padded with an expensive silver beadwork, and a long pleated skirt. Along her breast jacket sat her ribbon rack, adorned with all of the honorary medals she obtained during her service. Elegantly, she strode down the aisle; the King's careful eyes following her as she fell into a deep bow.

"Your Highness." She rose with grace too, hands firmly fixed at her sides, lowering her gaze before the King. "I am Lieutenant Seok." San cocked his head to the side, raising from his seat. Major Baek, the mentor to Seok stood adjacent to the King's desk sending a small sheepish smile, an odd emotion lingering behind it that she could not quite put her finger on. He was an old man, of about late sixties with thinning grey hair and a crinkled smile that stuck on his face throughout his life. He was renown for being the more compassionate of military officials she had ever come across, immediately taking the younger girl under his wing as soon as she stepped foot into the camps.

Being the only female lieutenant was more threatening to the cause than inspiring. Typically, women were not allowed to serve, in the military, unless they were Nurses or Administrators. Despite this, Lieutenant Seok's quick wits and admirable strength had her soaring through the rankings though she hated to admit that her father's occupation as Military Strategist may have been what allowed her to even step foot on the soil, or even what got Major Baek to show her some kindness. They loved to remind her of that. Though he was not the one to get her that far. Hell he had even died before the thought of joining the military had even crossed her mind.

The King rose from his chair, moving to stand in front of his desk waving a stack of papers in hand. Her eyes narrowed slightly in confusion, she shifted her gaze to Major Baek who only avoided eye contact.

"Here, I have all of Major Seong's reports. Very meticulous, very well-written. Such is what I expect of my men." The pulse of her heart rose, blood rushed through her veins at a palpable speed, clenching her pleated skirts within the tight fist of her sweaty palms. Had he realised that she was the one writing all of his reports? "Except there's a slight problem and I need you to fix it for me." San provoked, she shifted uncomfortably under his hard stare.

"Look at me whilst I speak to you." Her eyes widened, was this King deranged? Who dared to even look into the King's eyes? Tentatively, lifting her chin, she bored into his crescent eyes. His high cheekbones and defined jawline created an intimidating impression, a current of virtue circulated around him as he spoke. His robes accentuated his broad shoulders and cinched waist. "In the Battle of Myeongnyang, by how many men was Admiral Yi Sun-Shin outnumbered?"

"333 to 13." Lieutenant Seok answered before San could blink, he fought back the smirk dancing on his lips.

"In which battle did he die?"

"Battle of Noryang on December 16, 1598."

"Exactly as its written here." San held up the report again, sharing a look with Major Baek that she failed to read. "So when I asked Major Seong, why did he say Pyeongyang?" Oh God. She thought as quickly as she could, reeling her mind through ways to answer the King.

"Everybody makes mistakes, Your Highness." she answered, settling upon the weakest argument one could make.

"He said December 14, 1598. I don't think this is a mistake Lieutenant. Now, I'm not concerned that our military officials don't know our countries history. I should be, but I'm not. This here." He shook the paper as furiously as he could. "Means nothing. But I asked him to recite basic facts from this report and he stuttered like a man with a lisp." Flinching at the King's harsh insult, she fixed her gaze to the ground again realising that the King knew that all along she was writing Major Seong's reports for him, which was one of the biggest crimes one could commit as a member of the Royal Army.

"I could ask you, on the other hand, and you would read this off like it's the back of your hand. Do not lie to me, Lieutenant, have you or have you not been writing Major Seong's reports and carrying out his duties which are significantly above your pay grade?" The King's voice seethed with anger, a large gust of wind emptied into the tense atmosphere as if the wind itself was mirroring his vexation. Once again, she fleeted her gaze back to her mentor who was painfully silent during this assembly. "I asked you, not him."

"Yes." She responded, weakly. "I did, Your Highness." San sighed, dropping the reports on the table with a loud thud. He didn't need to question why, he already knew that despite the fact that she was a particularly hard-working individual committed to carrying out her duties diligently, she was also just a woman- being punished for her sex.

"As you know, every King gets to choose his General. I have to be able to trust that my General can lead me into war and win." He paused, a breath hitched in the night's air. "How does General Seok sound?" Her eyes lit up at the sound of ‘General’ in front of her name, the urge to gasp out and cry was hanging heavy on her tongue. Looking into Major Baek’s eyes, they were full of joy and admiration for his mentee. Prior to this meeting, he had spoken with the King, believing it was time Qiān had elevated their distinguished reputation further through their first ever female General.

"With all due respect, Your Royal Highness, there are many Majors and Lieutenant Colonels who have much more leadership experience and the desired skill set to fill this role. I am not sure if I possess the qualities that you are seeking." Besides, why had he even called her into his office? To humiliate her before giving her the title of General, to prove that even though she would have the power of the military in the palm of her hands-above all King San held a more divine power that only she could dream of?

San saw in both her eyes and her slight discomfort of her face, that it pained her to say such words. Then why did she say them? Was it the fear of being rejected by those who looked down on her? The fear that accepting this esteemed position would exacerbate the conditions she was living in. Men hated powerful women, history made that story known. Though, there was something about the woman before him being by his side, ruling his Royal Army that magnetised him.

“I disagree. You are General Officer Seok’s daughter, who helped us win a number of battles. Before he died, he told me you would win a thousand wars for Qiān.” Major Baek inputted. She always thought that her father had a hyperactive imagination; simply put he said the things he said to motivate his daughter. But her father was never wrong.

Is this not what she always wanted? Was King San not giving it to her on a hot silver platter dish? Yet, did this not mean her hands would be drenched in blood even more than it already was?

“Sacrifices have to be made, pet. In war, you sacrifice your sanity.”

"I accept this position." Falling into another deep bow, she rose as a wilted plant once did when it was blessed with water from the skies after a deserted period. "Thank you, my King. I promise I won't let you down."

General Seok strode down to her office situated in the East Wing of the castle, yet a distance from the King’s quarters. It was usually derelict at this time yet as she walked down she felt the burning stare of a hundred military officials, all jealous of her rank. She recounted the wave of discontentment that spun over the room like a wild fire, all questioning their noble King’s decision. Her mind fixated over the way her name reverberated through the room, a wave of gasps infiltrating the tense air. The officials heads snapping towards her, their mouths gaped.

"Men will never take you seriously if you are too afraid to look them in the eye." Staring at her father from across the chessboard, she bit her lower lip. "Are you afraid of me, my child?" Shaking her head no, she captured his bishop with her rook. With a contented humph, her father got up.

"Then look at me next time, when you have won. Show me that you are more powerful than Generals, wits great enough to be our Queen."

Pushing past the door to The General’s office, the large room was wavering with a warmth, the shut of the door silencing the bustle of movement outside the wall. Bookcases were plastered across the walls of the room, the palace brimmed with profound knowledge each published piece of literature could be found in Qiān's halls. A large mahogany table with a soft leather chair resided by the glass pane windows overlooking the garden. On a much smaller table, in the far corner, sat a chessboard- two chairs on opposite ends. A bundle of ink quilled pens rested above the table, a stack of plain books on the right hand corner. Sighing, she dropped the pile of books in her hand onto the table.

“War is looming over us. Freyr will not rest until they have seized our lands and we will not rest until we have secured ours." Over several generations, from the beginning of time when Kingdoms were forged from molten rock, a foreign tension bloomed between two of the most powerful nations of Earth. For the longest time, Qiān had always been imperilled with the possibility of war; they had just been harmless threats from a King that was too dim to strike against an equally powerful nation that would cause mutually assured destruction. Until now, King Jeong proved one of the more impulsive of Kings from his ancestors. Her kingdom's safety was now at stake and she needed to protect it with her life. "Over the next few weeks we need to prepare for a potential war-” She was cut off by the grumblings of the militia.

"I will not have a woman lead me into a war."

"How pitiful, death awaits for you from the male Generals that have this country running in blood."

"You sound incredibly confident, General, that you'll lose the least number of men." One mocked, the crowd of men let out a taunting laughter only be silenced as San rose from his chair.

"Had I believed we'd conquer this war by a man, would I have not chose him to stand by my side? Do you think me unintelligible of making a wise decision?" A deafening silence punctured her ears, her head dipped under his omnipresence. Did they go reticent out of sheer embarrassment or because they thought that King San would be one to disperse their Kingdom into ashes? Granted, her first assembly as General was a disaster, the uproar from her comrades induced a thumping headache; her forehead hit against her table a long groan escaping from her lips out of sheer exhaustion.

"My, my General-you're going mad already." Hastily, she jerked up her head straightening her posture as the King slumped into the chair opposite her desk. When did he enter?

"Your Highness, should I call for some tea?" San snickered, dimples adorning his cheeks. His heart fluttered slightly at her disorientation he could not put his finger why. Perhaps it was that for the first time, the organised, composed General had been caught off guard by his surprise visit. There was something so domestic about the fact that she was summoning tea for him; he didn’t even get to say ‘No thank you, I’ve had three cups already and it’s one in the evening.’

Certainly, the woman before him was beautiful- he noted that on first sight. He did not know how to feel now that he assigned her the role as his General. The whole world could see her sacred beauty, she was not something for him to lock up in a treasure chest and keep her all to himself. How dare she sway his heart into unchartered seas that San had spent the duration of his life running away from.

“Your Highness, the maids have told me that you haven’t had lunch yet. Perhaps we can have tea another time.” She stood by the doorway, arms folded as if she was his wife scolding him on his lack of appetite.

“First of all, I didn’t come for tea.” Her face heated up in embarrassment; pressed in her palms in realisation that she had jumped to a sudden conclusion. “Secondly, I’m not hungry. I’ll drink your tea anyway.” Huffing, she grabbed the tea tray from the maid thanking her before shutting the door with her foot. She picked up the porcelain teapot, the air fulfilled with the aroma of Jasmine tea; tranquillity succeeded the exhaustion felt by both King and his General.

“Jasmine tea?” San questioned, he preferred green tea with its grassy undertone. Jasmine tea was too floral for him.

“Yes, it’s good for calmness and mental clarity.”

“So that’s your secret, lots of Jasmine tea.” She nodded, placing the teacup in front of him. He sucked in a breath before raising the cup to his lips. Oh, it’s sweet. A lot sweeter than the cups he had been forced to drink as a child.

“I added honey.” The General added, on cue as if she had read his thoughts. “With respect Your Highness, if it wasn’t tea you came for: how can I help you?” He settled down the cup, clearing his throat.

“I excused Major Seong. As of tomorrow morning, he will be a normal civilian working in his father’s farm. He’s best off serving the country in another way.” Her chest heaved in shock, she leaned back in her chair chewing on her lip as she could not help but feel that she was to blame.

“He was still the best of us.” She retorted, after a long, painful silence.

“Not good enough. Otherwise I wouldn’t have dismissed him. Also, I don’t know if Major Baek has told you but he is retiring.” With her elbows perched on the desk, her face rested within her palms.

“Don’t you have anything good to tell me, Your Majesty.” He laughed, shaking his head at her forlorn attitude.

“Call me San.” He retorted, the beauty of his name flew her heart into oblivion. “Tell me something, that reads like poetry.” He blurted, though his claim was abrupt a part of her understood where he came from. Tell me what’s on your mind, he wanted to say.

Tell me what your deepest wish is so that I can fulfil it.

“I believe, in a hundred years time, my successor will be the vessel that tells the people of Qiān that a woman’s rule can be as bold and as true as a man’s.” His eyes narrowed, infatuation settling into his heart, bewitched by his General's moving words. “I will be the woman to win the wars against our enemies. She will be the one to win against society.” A comfortable quietude penetrated the tense atmosphere, San sat still in his chair, afraid to make a sound as he swallowed her words with a heavy heart. For the first time since his father's death, he felt weak. As if he wanted to fight the war, that she was fighting, with her. Her wish was one those that even as omnipotent as he was, he could not fulfil.

"I shall take your leave. Enjoy the office." Smiling, San strode out of the room, his powerful aura remained suspended in the air in his absence.

Within the subsequent weeks General Seok was burdened with bourgeoning responsibility, abetting a series of migraines that not even Jasmine tea could fix. They ranged from completing reports, training soldiers, attending her own training-during the day that was. Then at night, she read books on the Freyr-learning about their language, culture, and then reading upon all of their wars. She managed to find books on previous Generals that served the Freyr Kingdom, noting their battle strategies. She became reserved to her study, papers scrawled across the floor, hooking up drawing pins as she noticed trending schemes. There were multiple different outcomes, like a game of chess. One move by the opponent unravelled up to ten to the power of a hundred and twenty-three potential outcomes, much like war and its soldiers.

"You just started your job and it's already exhausting you." Her mother claimed, as she placed her book on her nightstand. Sat at the foot of her bed, the elderly woman looked at her daughter's tired eyes-witnessing the same determined gaze; once held by her husband.

"I know, a big position only means more responsibility. Besides, I think I've got most things worked out. I have a meeting with the King, tomorrow and then the whole day to myself." Letting out a stifled yawn, she sunk into her cotton sheets hair sprawled across the pillow.

"You've been busy, General." With a single nod, she watched as San drew his eyes down her veraciously detailed report. A pair of round glasses sat at the bridge of his nose, she could not help but notice how they heightened the sharp features of his face. "Your work ethic is incredible, even I don't think I could have done this in the time span you did. You can rest now."

It did not occur to her that she had fallen asleep in the King's office, right in front of His Majesty's eyes. The sight of her tenacity lead his heart to swoon a little. General Seok was a sight to behold, especially with the way the soft afternoon light streamed in through the window, beaming across her face forging a halo. Her hair which was usually straightened and fastened tightly behind her shoulders had become loose from its knot. She breathed gingerly; the strands of hair that fell structurally over her face drifting as the air spun around it. He wanted to outstretch his hand and brush the hair from her face.

"I need tighter security, here." she ordered, pointing to the farming village, the kingdom's most vulnerable district. "If I were the Freyr, I would attack here. It's unscrutinised and connects to the Valley-perfect for pushing equipment and aid through. We need to block any shipment through these borders." The valley connected to the farming village became one of the fundamental ways that the Freyr and Qian people traded over centuries.

Gathered in the War Room, the military officials were all stood around large chestnut table, a map of the world and it's seven seas. Adjacent was a black box, which she recognised as holding pawns, figurines, as well as odd bits of trinkets. The dark walls were plastered with weapons of all sorts, a preview of all the artillery they held in the War Inventory. Despite the spectrality in the thin air, there was an odd sense of comfort to be found here. Something like she could spend the rest of her days trapped within these four walls and she'd be surprisingly at comfort with it.

"If we close the bridge, how will we trade?" Major Baek questioned.

"We can trade at the Centre." Her finger fell over the busiest and the most surveyed port in Qiān. "Let's just tell them it's closed for repair." An influx of complacency infiltrated the room. Her eyes glanced towards San, who was staring intently at the map over her shoulders, with a calculating look.

“We’ll have to have a talk with the foreign diplomats, otherwise good job General.” With a single nod, he left from the room signalling the end of the meeting. All left except Major Baek, sat in front of her, sipping on the Jasmine tea she had called for.

“You’re doing incredibly well, dear. If it’s any reassurance.” A genuine smiled plastered on her, soothing the agitation in her muscles.

“It is. I can’t believe you’re retiring. What was a few more years? I can’t do this without you.”

“You can, you already are. Besides it’s not like I was ever going to become General.” He joked, they shared a small laugh that echoed in the dim light of the War Room, where for the last time: the man who had treated her as if she was his own daughter was soon to be a name written in a history book, his memory lost to the wind.

General Seok found that the women of the palace grew indifferent towards her success for they taunted her with dirty looks as she surpassed them. Their snake like tongues spat venomous rumours, claiming that whenever she entered the King's chambers she was carried with a promiscuous sense of duty. To which this enraged her but there was simply nothing she could do, because they were just rumours; there was no substantial proof that they were rallying against her.

"Here comes the whore." They sang in an undignified manner as she strode down the hallways, a book pressed against her chest. Biting down on her lip so she did not release a snarky remark, she merely ignored them as their giggles venerated through the hallways. Pushing through the doors to his chambers, Seok entered his bedroom finding him sat by the balcony reading a book. Her anger had diminished at the sight of him, following the pout of his pink lips, the crease between his eyes as he revelled the words; the breeze tousled his hair. Within this moment he was no longer the King that ruled over his kingdom with a tight fist and sharp mind but rather an amiable man with a thirst for knowledge. Clearing her throat, his head craned to find her standing by his desk. A strand of hair fell over his dark eyes, he rose from his seat; gaze travelling up and down her body.

“You’re dressed like a bride.” He blurted. My bride. Clearing his throat as his cheeks blushed pink, he stuttered over his words, "Eastern brides traditionally wear red on their weddings days." Handing over the book, she sat herself down on the chair, dazing out of the window. To think of it, why did she always dress so ostentatiously around San? Was it his nobility that intimidated her? Or the need to live up to the King's standards as his General?

"What's wrong?" San chimed. She shook her head, as if there was nothing wrong with herself. Maybe the women were right, she was gnawing at his attention trying to keep him to herself. There was no denying Choi San was beautiful with his sleek dark chair, cut-throat jawline, his angelic eyes, his benefaction. His concern whenever she tired herself, slaving herself over her work. Then came his desire to stand next to her in every meeting, his body pressed close to hers fighting of all of the griping stares as she fought gruellingly to protect their kingdom.

"Nothing, nothing." With a wave of her hand, she brushed him off. He slumped down onto the chair opposite her, chin resting with the palm of his hands cupping the sides of his cheeks.

"Oh its something, something." His crescent eyes peered into hers, she wanted nothing more than to delicately kiss them. Then to drag her lips over the bridge of his nose and then his plump lips. "Is it not your duty to share the people's concerns?"

"No because I am not a member of parliament." She quipped, with a smirk that made him scoff. "My duty is to protect you."

"But you did not protect me from you." He got up from his seat, walking around the table to face her. His hands outstretched towards her face, tucking the loose strands of hair behind her ear, with his lips dangerously close to her own, she basked in the sight of her King as a hungry soul reaching for the fruits of love to which only she could hand down to him.

“San, what am I to you, if not your general?”

"You are my heart and my soul. You are what keeps me beating, and what brings me back to life every morning. You are everything I want and even more. It is painful to be so in love with you, so tell me you don't love me and free me from this anguish." As if he had knocked the life out of her, her body glissaded under his devotion. How cruel of him to beg her to purge herself of the profound emotions she held for him. Did she not want him too, in all ways whether it may be forbidden?

"We shouldn't do this." Her mutter reached to him through a series of rough, passionate kisses-a fire burning wherever his touch lingered upon her skin.

"Then tell me to stop" But she could not as her hands ran into his hair. Her every scent pulled the strings of his heart, every pulse was hers as their arms circulated around each other in the darkness of his chambers. Every touch felt as if they would never feel again, every sight relished as if they would never see again. Their clandestine marriage of hearts was so potent, it was enough to send them into a drunken haze for eternity.

The Royal Palace was struck with chaos- servants bustling around in desperate attempts to create an illustrious image of decadence, in honour of Qiān's annual banquet held in order to improve international relations. This year it was to celebrate the strong tradesmanship formed between the Qiān and the East. That also included inviting their enemy, Freyr, to maintain an image of agreement to their people. Of course, this enraged her as the Freyr became more hostile, finding multiple ways to pose threats on their country. For all she knew, they could see this as a perfect opportunity to strike as the Qiān would not want to damage foreign relations by keeping a tight security. Having raised this with the other military commanders, they all mocked her by deeming her paranoid.

“I agree.” San’s cold voice bellowed over the War Room. “Our allies may perceive our tightened security as a threat. The Freyr were already adamant to not attend the ball, convincing them was hard enough.”

“Your Highness, this is exactly what they want. We should at least have tighter security at the border and ports.” He shook his head in disagreement, a pang of annoyance jutting through her.

“Stand down, General. You are not a member of parliament.” Swallowing the lump in her throat, she sunk her head in humiliation. He had never disagreed so bluntly before, if he had ever disagreed: he would raise the point so gently or provide another solution, not outright dissipate her suggestions. Later that day she was huddled up in a chair in her office; finishing up the finality of her report. She was so wrought with exhaustion she wished for some comfort. A pair of arms would soothe the headache from the burden of stress that persisted on her shoulders. As soon as she walked in through the doors to his chambers, he invited her with a look of irritation.

“What do you want?” He snapped, flinching at the harshness of his tone- she rushed forward to hand the report to him. Next time she’d hand it to the Royal Secretariat if he was going to act this way. Turning on her heel, she hurried out of his chambers biting down her quivering lip. Wrapping her arms around herself, as if it would reprimand the damages he inflicted upon her.

Hidden behind a pillar, her head was thrown back-hands pressed over her abdomen in order to soothe the persisting ache residing. San's voice carried out of the room, to which she listened to his manufactured speech which rendered their hearts into submission. General Seok, herself, was clad in an embellished silver dress her ears and neck were bejewelled in a matching set of silver with the infamous General’s sword to her hip. Her eyes peered through the open doors to the ballroom-a sea of fabrics enveloping the white marble ceilings as a cacophony of sounds emptied into the room. Despite its elegance, an ominous feeling was pensile within the humidity, a dark cavern with a haunting soul ready to be unleashed onto the crowd. It was too liable, susceptible to attack.

Something felt off.

At the top through the window, she noticed a glint penetrate through the glass. The silhouette of a sharp blade pointing down in San’s direction as he spread his arms wide summoning the attention of the nobles. Her hand reached for the hilt of the sword, but the figure retreated. Instead, she sought a shadow move closer across the skylines, as soon as he placed one foot on the chandelier, his arrow pointed straight at the King of Qiān. Swiftly, she stole a knife from the nearest guard. His bowstring pulled back. Dashing towards San, she drove his body into the floor as the arrow penetrated through the air, landing less than a foot away from his feet. Chucking the blade into the air, the dagger pierced through the rope holding up the chandelier- the glass sinking in the ground releasing a camaraderie of panicked screams.

Unsheathing her sword, she struck down at him only to strike again, the rim slicing through the surface of his skin. This time, he pounded a harsh blow against her to which the colliding of his weapon against hers created a screech loud enough to bleed ears; the sword in her steadfast grip was growing heavy and acuminating at her tiredness. The attacker stumbled backwards, falling to his knees under her powerful blow. The full length of her blade impaled through his heart, ripping the seams that held his soul together- blood bursting from its banks. A breath hitched in his throat, a loud thud gratified the throne room. Her hands shook as the adversaries screams mimicked the cries emptying into her detached soul; thick scarlet blood painting her fingers as her body roamed through the folds of his dead body. Bingo. Ripping the crest from his body, she threw it at San's feet.

“I want this castle searched for any more intruders.” When the Royal Guards did not move, rage flooded through her. “Now!” She roared, parading out of the room.

Her back slid slowly down the wall of the War Room, tears sliding down her cheeks. Tucking up her knees to her chest- her body wracked as an excruciating wail echoed into the room. General Seok felt the derisive stare of the chess pieces, the maps, the strategy books. What kind of General was she? One who could barely protect her king. They were right. All of them: the nobles, the ministers, officials, the noblewomen and even the servants. A woman was in no position to protect the country, she had spent hours, days and weeks cooped up drawing out plans, playing out schemes in her head, sketching them out like role play over the board. All of that work seemed futile now that the enemy was daring enough to unleash an attack against the King. The painful creak of the door snapped at her attention, she roughly wiped away her tears with her sleeve a harsh stare befalling on her face.

“I thought I told-Your Majesty.” Her rough tone transgressed into a soft voice as she bowed deeply, San rushing into the room.

“Are you ok? You’re not hurt, are you?” She shook her head no, avoiding his gaze. “My love, look at me.” Hesitantly, her red eyes bored into his own. Cupping her cheeks, he pressed his lips to her forehead. That was enough to break her walls again. Digging her face into his neck, she erupted into a fit of sobs, her weary body slumping against his robes. His slender fingers pulled out the clip to ease the strident tug of her hair gnawing at her scalp; his hold around her waist tightening.

“I should have listened to you. The faults mine.” Lifting her head she looked at him, mouth parted as if to reason. Placing a finger on her lips, he silenced her. “No- none of this was your fault. You couldn’t have possibly known any of this was going to happen. In fact, you told me this was a possibility and I didn’t listen. It was an uncharacteristic and a foolish attack. General Seok, we have the upper hand now.”

"That's what they want us to think. God, San, my head hurts. I'm struggling. I can't come to terms with what they want."

"For now, you need to rest. You must be exhausted."

"I can't rest. Tomorrow the officials will be at my necks. 'General Seok you never saw this coming, did you?', 'This is why you should leave it to the men.' They won't see how I almost sacrificed my life to save yours, they'll only see the fact that you were endangered in the first place."

"I've warranted a search for the rest of the attackers around our villages too. More royal guards have been posted, security is much tighter. King Jeong seemed unsurprised, but not his son. This was an attack by Freyr. I saw the crest" He ambled towards her, sinking to his knees in front of her. Her breath hitched in her throat, a king kneeling to his servant? Had this man gone mad? His hand drifted towards her cheek, “You need sleep. You’re unwell, my General.”

"Get up, if anyone sees you kneeling before me, it will look nasty for the pair of us." He shook his head.

"I don't think I care." Encasing an arm around her neck and under her knees, he effortlessly lifted her up from the chair. "Don't say anything." he warned, walking to the other end of the room towards the large banner pinned to the wall. Moving the fabric with a few fingers, he grunted twisting the door handle. Leaning against him, her eyes fluttered to a close as he surpassed into the hidden passageway. The next morning, she was prescribed with escorting the Crown Prince of Freyr, Yunho to his carriage. They strode down to the horses in silence, wind brushed against them, left with tired sighs and quiet hums to serenade the airs.

"You are ok, aren't you General?" Nodding gratefully at his compassion, they stood outside his carriage, ready to exchange their final goodbyes. Yunho, himself, despite his incredibly tall stature, and depictable strength, held more altruism in the tip of his finger than his father held in his whole body. In comparison to King Jeong, whose violent tendencies and insatiable appetite for destruction was now the impending cause of his deteriorating health, he was renown for his charity work and advocating for peace instead of war. However, at times she could not help but think he was executing a carefully constructed façade to move the hearts of the Qiān officials. Primarily, herself. For she sought the way that he looked at with the same level of infatuation that San had. "I'd love to get to know you General and I feel as if soon we will be obliged to work more closely together. I know you understand that our countries enmity is a product of egotism, which I hope we can soon come to a conclusion on." Her head nodded slowly, as Yunho have her one last final smile before entering his carriage.

The officials were bashful in the following meeting. A few spoke of an outbreak of a plague, San walking into the meeting late addressing the militia's concern.

"The village is under lockdown?" she questioned.

"Yes, and some villagers were on their way to Freyr too." A thought processed through her mind, vaguely. They needed something against Freyr. Something to make them pay for attacking her Kingdom.

"Nothing is immoral in war, pet." her father beamed at her as she sat in his bedroom reading through his journal. "Don't let emotions cloud your judgement, the second it does? You're as good as dead."

"That's it, Mr Seok! Stop trying to turn our daughter into a tyrant!" Her mother’s cry clamoured into her bedroom. Sharing a smile with her father she turned back to her book.

"What if we sent some of them to Freyr?"

"We can't do that, there'd be an ou-." Her cunning grin censored his reasoning.

"Can we not?" she challenged, the officials all shared a look. "Meeting adjourned." Is this what you meant Father, when you said nothing, in war, was immoral?

Nestling her head in the crook her neck, she sat on his laps staring out into the dusk. Pressing his lips to her cheeks, he breathed her in as if she was oxygen.

“The council is talking about your marriage now, aren’t they?” He hummed in agreement, sadness provoking through her. Was it possible for them to be together for eternity? Could she be both General and Queen? Perhaps she was getting ahead of herself, what if his intentions weren’t marriage? What if he wanted a little bit of fun? As if he read her thoughts, he rested a hand upon her cheek to console her.

"I’ll find my way to you, if not I’ll make my way.” But just how would he make his way to her, when he could not even do as much as hold her hand for longer than a minute under the table? How would he do so, when he had to drag her into the nearest empty room to stoop her into a dulcet kiss for a mere second before they played their respective roles again? The sweetest things are forbidden. The things you desired the most are the ones you cannot have. Therefore, did she desire him more than she desired to be great and true? Was it love that she was seeking rather than power and intellect?

It was one or the other. It was San or General. How could the universe make her choose? It was like when she was asked if she preferred her mother or her father. When she was younger she always chose whoever had bowed to her wishes and pleased her the most. Her father-tending to her every need whereas her mother taught her that patience would give you more than what you desired. What was she to do now? She waited, and she became Qiān's acclaimed military official standing next to their eminent King. What would the people think? What would the naval think? They already hated the fact that she ruled over them, but as their Queen no witty remark would slip past her.

“I can make you my wife, right here and right now.” I love you, but I can't have you. "Marry me and let me make you Qiān's most powerful queen."

"San, do you think they like the fact that a woman has to tell them how to win a war? Do you think they'll like me even more when I become their queen? Your duty to this kingdom is to be its face, to unite, create stability between yourself and the people. Mine is to protect."

"You also have a duty to your heart. What does it want?” The booming of their incessant souls prevailed, the strings attached to them, curtailing. His tantalising aura pulled her in, yet the fact that she could not have him drew her away. It hurt that he did not belong to her, having spent the remainder of her life ruled by rationality than emotion, she knew it was better to let go of what she desired.

"It wants you. But we can't always have what we want. We have to live with that San."

"Then I won't marry. This kingdom can die with me, for all I care. After my death they can tear this palace apart. When my ancestors ask me why I broke their legacy, I'll say I fell in love."

"Don't be ridiculo-."

"I am irrevocably in love with you. My heart beats to your name, I'd abdicate-" Her hands pressed up against his lips. Tears rushing to front of her eyes.

I want you, I want you so badly.

"San, you fool.” she sobbed, her hands sliding down his face before settling on his chest.

"Can't you see? I'm a fool for you." He kissed away her tears, slowly inching towards her lips. The taste of it so sweet, so divine, something to get drunk on every night until her soul was too intoxicated to stay alive. “I’d let kingdoms fall for you.”

“We can build this kingdom together, just not as King and Queen. Just as King and General. As it should be.”

“Please. Think, we can make our way to each other, we can make it work. I beg.” Her hold around his neck tightened, he gripped her so tightly as if he would lose her and it seemed that any second now: he would.

“The Freyr have surrendered their threats? They wish to organise a peace treaty?” Her voice rose by an octave with every word as the Major revealed to her the latest political news. “Why wasn’t I informed of this? This is great.”

“Mainly so, King Yunho has requested to meet with you rather than His Majesty.” Once the migrants had reached the Freyr border, unbeknownst of the news of a disease- a sudden epidemic occurred across the nation, the death count inclining exponentially. Freyr’s army depleted significantly with the plague, Qiān locking its borders- keeping the spread of infection on a tight leash. Finally, when the disease had reached the palace- King Jeong became a victim; with his prolonging amenability, his life was taken from him a new ruler acceding to the throne. “I hear he may be visiting soon, after a period of isolation- of course.”

As claimed, Yunho made his way to their kingdom with a restricted access to the palace grounds and movement to prevent the spread of disease. She caught him traipsing across the guest's quarters with white gloved hands and a face mask- to meet with San who wore the same protective dress. Entering the room, the King of Freyr was sealed behind a transparent white fabric. Joining San on the opposite side, she greeted him with a deep bow.

“Your Highness. To what do we owe the pleasure?” The treaty was signed now, the threat of war had been consumed. Was he after something more malicious?

“I was thinking what would be better way for us to create an efficacious partnership than to bind our kingdoms together in matrimony.” She shared a look with San.

“Are you talking about the Freyr Princess, Yeji?" He nodded, dubiously.

"We'll have to think about this prospect, Yunho. Our people will not take lightly to a Freyr Queen." San spoke, his careful words penetrating through Yunho's heart. His way of speaking was hypnotic enough to make his counterpart submit under his command. Through the sheer fabric, a long arm outstretched before hers dragging her body violently towards his.

“I know this was all your doing General Seok. You are a very clever woman and I respect that you will do whatever it takes to defend your country. Do not mistake my lack of maleficence for weakness.” He whispered, before releasing his rough grip on her. Pounding out of the room with his officials on his tail, her ears rung, the sonority of voices calling her name fell deaf to her ears. Beads of sweat formed on her forehead, blundering out of the room her palpitating heart pushed into the furnished hallway knocking over porcelain vases.

“General? General Seok!” Her head snapped up from the picturesque map pinned to wood. The naval all scrutinised her from the top of the table where she sat nursing a headache. She couldn’t care how weak they thought of her now. Yunho knew. How did he know? Was there a spy within her troops she did not know? Or was he sharper than she had forseen? The latter brimmed her heart with solicitude.

“Go on, Major Kang. Tell me, I didn’t see that coming. Tell me that I have driven this country into the ground with my wit.” Her noxious tone reached out to them through gritted teeth. For the first time in her life, there was an odd sense of sympathy in the room that wasn’t foreseen before.

“General Geon cried in this very room when he lost his precious battalion to the Freyr in the Valley. In front of us all. We do not care if you ripped your hair out in front of us, we care that you move us forward.” Swallowing the lump in her throat, battling the tears that threatened to leach out of her eyes, her head oscillated. “It’s ok to not know what to do, General.”

“I can’t have the Freyr Princess in this kingdom."

“Then Qiān will be sunken under the sea.” San spoke, a mutter of agreement fulfilled the War Room.

“If we have to shed blood, let’s do it now. Their troops have minimised, we’ve blocked all ways in, they’re still suffering from a chronic disease. If they declare a war, they won’t win.”

“He doesn’t have to declare war now. He can declare war in ten, fifteen, twenty years time. Will we win then?” San argued. Under their heated gaze, the officials left the room leaving their General alone to rally with the King.

"I can't and won't stand here and watch another woman take my place in your heart." Tears pooled at the bay of her eyes. He drew closer to her, pulling her into his chest.

"I'm afraid you have to."

"Sannie, my love. Please." she begged, weakly. He turned his head away. "You can't do this to me." A painful sob escaped from her lips as she sunk to the floor, dragging San down with her. Her cry weakened him, breaking down the exterior of a powerful King that had been fabricated from his coronation.

"If I were to hold you in my arms, in front of them all, that would be all the more reason to let you go. You are my heart and my soul. You are everything that keeps my body moving. But to love you is a sin that would condemn me to eternal damnation."

“I would lose a thousand wars, willingly, if it meant I could have you." she choked out. His lips fell into a pout, as his own tears forged from the ardent fires of his love.

“Anything to win a war, right?” Their heads pressed together, pearly tears staining her supple flesh. “You will always be my queen.” With a final kiss pressed to her forehead, he got up escaping through the door. Her heart entwined between his fingers, blood dripping down the palace walls as they were mercilessly parted by fate.

DO NOT REPOST, TRANSLATE, REPURPOSE, OR PLAGISRISE ANY OF THE WORK HERE

‘seok’ meaning stone

A/N: I decided to remaster the whole thing because I was a bit iffy about the first version, since the first half is different I just didn’t want to edit the older version. lmk if you find this edition better!!!

tagging some folks who read the old version, hope you don’t mind!

tags: @potatos-on-clouds @n0v4t33z @jean-swolo @wooyoungjung99 @yeontaegu @butterflydemons @ajuniceagain @chocosuh

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vampwritesstuff · 17 days ago

Text

Edge of The Blade Chapter 3

Genre: prince!ateez x fem!assassin!reader, royalty au, non idol au, fluff, angst, slow burn, poly!teez

Word count: 3.7k

Chapter warnings: death, murder, nightmares, small talk of nightmares. Please let me know if I missed anything!

Synopsis: After a series of assassination attempts on the king's sons, the kingdom is on edge. Y/n arrives at the palace as the protector no one expected, with unparalleled combat skills and a keen mind. Her arrival brings intrigue, admiration, and confusion to the princes. Each brother is drawn to her in his own way, forming unique connections that bring a new sense of unity to them all. As they work together to unravel the mystery behind the attempts on their lives, Y/n becomes both a protector and a secret weakness for the princes—making them stronger and more vulnerable than ever.

A/n: Oh I am so excited for you guys to read this chapter. We get some good interactions between Y/n and the princes and even learn a little bit more about her and get our first one on one interaction with one of prince!teez as well, bet you can’t guess who. As always, I hope you enjoy reading and let me know what you think of this chapter!

Masterlist // Join Taglist

Y/n's first morning in the palace dawned with a soft, golden light streaming through the grand windows, illuminating her new quarters with a warmth that was surprisingly inviting. She was already awake, sitting by the edge of her bed as she took in her surroundings. Her mind was still adjusting to the reality of this new chapter in her life: she was now the glorified bodyguard of the kingdom’s princes. Her duty was clear, but the magnitude of it all felt almost overwhelming. She knew each day would be a test of her skill, patience, and willpower, and the weight of the responsibility settled heavily on her shoulders.

The decision to accept this role hadn’t come lightly. She’d always worked independently, carving out a path in the shadows, accustomed to relying on herself and herself alone. But as she looked around her spacious quarters, noting the polished floors and intricate tapestries, she reminded herself that this was an opportunity she could not turn down—a chance to serve in a way that her past life as a mercenary never allowed. A chance to protect, to prevent harm rather than avenge it. This is what she had been telling herself since stepping foot inside the castle, and perhaps for a while she would have to remind herself of this often.

Dressing swiftly, she donned her uniform. It was different from what she normally wore, but its dark colors still allowed her to go about unnoticed as she always had. Her fingers lingered briefly over the insignia stitched into the fabric. It felt strange to wear something so… official. She took a steadying breath and stood, ready to begin her day, feeling a small but sharp flicker of excitement tempered by her usual guardedness. Despite the king’s wishes for her and his sons to become acquainted, she couldn’t allow personal feelings to be added into the mix and cause a mess if she were to somehow fail. She couldn’t become attached.

—

The schedule for her first day required her to accompany the princes during their daily routine of attending court meetings, and as she walked through the winding corridors toward the main hall, she ran through what she knew about each prince in her mind. Hongjoong, was the crowned heir even if he wasn’t the oldest, known for his leadership skills and sharp wit. Seonghwa, calm and composed, was the analytical mind, offering a balance to his brothers' often fiery personalities. Yunho, the most approachable and charismatic, often took on the role of peacemaker. Then there were the younger princes: San and Yeosang, known for their charismatic personalities and knack for strategy; Mingi and Wooyoung, the spirited brothers who could turn any room lively; and finally, Jongho, who, despite his stoic exterior, held a fierce loyalty toward his family and an interesting strength. He demonstrated that much when he had split an apple in half with his hand in the dining hall the previous night.

As she arrived in the main hall, she spotted the brothers standing in a loose circle, engaged in conversation. Their voices echoed through the hall, lively and carefree. The sight was a reminder of what her duty entailed: these weren’t just royal figures; they were brothers, each with distinct personalities, bonded by a shared history and love. And now, she was responsible for ensuring their safety.

She straightened her posture and approached them quietly. As she drew closer, the conversation halted when Yunho caught a glimpse of her from the corner of his eye and greeted her, and the princes turned to face her as he did so.

“Ah, Viper!” Yunho greeted her warmly, flashing a broad, friendly smile. “We were wondering when you’d get here. Thought you might be hiding in one of the tower rooms, planning your escape!”

The lighthearted comment drew chuckles from the other princes, and Y/n couldn’t help but smile back, despite the slight tension she felt in her chest, despite knowing she couldn’t risk attachment. Yunho was just that naturally inviting, she supposed, knowing that her resolution to be strictly professional would be difficult to uphold.

“I assure you, I have no intentions of abandoning my post,” She replied, a faint smile gracing her lips as she spoke. “But if I did, it would be well-planned and untraceable.”

The brothers laughed, and Wooyoung, ever playful, gave a mock gasp. “An untraceable escape? Sounds like we’re in capable hands, indeed.”

Hongjoong stepped forward, his expression more serious but no less welcoming. “We’re grateful to have you here, Y/n. I understand this role is new for you, as it is for us, so let’s work together to make this transition as smooth as possible.”

“Of course,” she replied, meeting his gaze. “My priority is your safety, and I’ll do everything in my power to fulfill that duty.”

Seonghwa gave a small nod, his eyes appraising her. “Do you have any thoughts on how you’ll proceed? We have our routines, and I imagine your approach to security might shift things a bit.”

“It’s possible,” she replied carefully. “For now, I’ll be observing each of you and the palace’s layout. I may suggest adjustments where necessary to ensure your security.”

Mingi leaned in, curiosity sparking in his eyes. “Are we allowed to know what you’re thinking?”

Y/n offered a slight, reserved smile. “Some things, yes. But for others, I’ll need to maintain discretion.”

Jongho crossed his arms, studying her with a slight tilt of his head. “So, basically, you’re watching our every move from now on?”

“In a sense, yes,” she said, her tone neutral but professional. “But only to keep you safe. I’m not here to intrude on your lives.”

“Let’s give her some time,” Hongjoong interjected, his voice authoritative but kind. “We’re all adjusting, but in time, we’ll find a rhythm.”

Y/n appreciated Hongjoong’s understanding. These were young men with their own lives and aspirations, and she was determined to respect that while fulfilling her duty. They didn’t need her to be in the way as they went about their lives, all she was meant to worry about was keeping them alive and weeding out the threat to their lives.

As the morning wore on, she followed the princes through their routines, accompanying them to meetings with palace advisors and walking with them through the gardens, it was a nostalgic feeling to witness the inner workings of a royal court again, only this time she wasn’t a child being shushed or ushered out of the room when she asked questions or topics became to heavy for a child to be present for. Each step through the palace allowed her to assess the surroundings, noting potential vulnerabilities. The castle itself was grand and ancient, and with its size came a natural complexity that created both hiding places and blind spots. This wasn’t a simple assignment, but she was used to challenges.

After accompanying the princes back to the main hall, she excused herself, noting she had a few concerns to bring to the captain of the guard. Navigating the winding corridors, she eventually found the captain’s quarters, tucked away near the training yard. She knocked, and the door opened to reveal Captain Christopher, or Chan, as she’d heard some of the guards call him.

He was a sturdy figure with a calm, calculated air about him, his uniform pristine yet worn in a way that hinted at years of experience. He greeted her with a nod, his eyes sharp and observant.

“Viper, is it?” he asked, his tone straightforward. She recognized the same accent that tinged Felix’s.

“That’s right. And you’re Captain Chan,” she replied, returning his nod with a slight smile.

“You’re here to discuss security measures, I assume?” he guessed, motioning for her to enter his quarters.

“Yes,” she confirmed, stepping inside. The room was minimalistic but filled with maps, plans, and a well-used sword leaning against a nearby table. “I’ve had a chance to accompany the princes through some of the castle today, and there are a few areas I think we should address.”

“Go on,” he said, gesturing for her to sit as he took a seat across from her.

“There are several blind spots in the upper corridors,” she began, referring to areas she had noticed earlier. “Anyone with intent could use those areas to evade detection. Additionally, the guards in the south tower seem more relaxed than the rest. They may need more rigorous training if they’re to handle potential threats.”

Chan listened attentively, nodding along as she pointed out various security weaknesses. “You’re thorough, I’ll give you that. Most people don’t notice such gaps until they’re exploited.”

“Experience has taught me to look for these things,” she replied, her tone level. “If we can address these vulnerabilities now, it could save us a good deal of trouble later.”

“I agree. I’ll make arrangements to bolster the guard rotations in the identified areas,” he said, his respect for her judgment evident. “I’ve heard of your skills, Viper. The king wouldn’t have appointed you to this position without reason.”

Her gaze softened slightly. “Thank you, Captain. I only hope to live up to his expectations— and my own.”

He gave her a reassuring nod. “If you keep up this level of vigilance, you’ll do just that. The princes are fortunate to have you watching over them.”

They continued discussing strategies and patrol adjustments, each point solidifying Y/n’s confidence in the captain’s abilities and the collaboration they’d have moving forward. By the end of their conversation, she felt a newfound respect for him. Chan was a capable leader, one who prioritized the safety of those under his protection. It was a relief to know she’d be working alongside someone so dedicated to his work.

As she left Chan’s office quarters, Y/n felt a sense of purpose settle in her chest. The conversation had reminded her that she wasn’t alone in this mission. There were others equally devoted to keeping the princes safe, and with each passing day, she would become more deeply integrated into their lives and the fabric of the palace’s lively routines.

The afternoon passed swiftly as Y/n continued shadowing the princes after her meeting with Chan. As the brothers moved to the training grounds, she was surprised to find herself invited to join them. Yunho, grinning widely as he tossed her a wooden practice sword to which she looked down at with a skeptical gaze. He couldn’t be serious.

“Care to join us?” he asked, his eyes twinkling with a hint of challenge. Oh, he was serious.

Y/n arched an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at her lips. “I wouldn’t want to embarrass anyone,” she teased, swinging the sword deftly in her grip, assessing the weight of it in her hands.

The other princes gathered around, intrigued by the prospect of sparring with their new protector. Seonghwa, ever the strategist, observed her stance with interest.

“If you’re as skilled as the king says, this should be… enlightening at the least,” he said, nodding to her with a quiet respect.

“It could certainly be beneficial to learn something from a trained assassin.” Yeosang chimed in, finally making Y/n secede and opt in to spar with them, at least then she would be able to gauge how well each of them could protect themselves and allow her to know who she would need to focus more on protecting if it came down to any of them having to hold their own against an attacker. She would do her best to make sure they would be able to survive long enough for her to reach them.

One by one, the princes took turns sparring with her, each offering a different approach and level of challenge. Wooyoung’s unpredictable movements kept her on her toes, while Jongho’s strength forced her to focus on speed rather than brute force. As the sparring session continued, Y/n found herself relaxing, caught up in the thrill of the exercise and the camaraderie that blossomed in the heat of competition.

When it was Hongjoong’s turn, he offered her a respectful nod before adopting a stance opposite her. Their duel was a test of precision, patience and their own wit, with each strike carefully calculated. The intensity of his gaze was matched by his determination, and Y/n found herself fully focused, he was determined to match her skill.

After a few rounds, the sparring came to an end, and the brothers clapped and laughed, pleasantly surprised by her skill. Yunho clapped her on the back, grinning. “You’re going to fit in here just fine, Viper. You’re tougher than you look!”

She chuckled, a genuine warmth filling her at the casual, almost familial atmosphere. For the first time in a long time, she felt like she belonged somewhere— more than just a passing shadow in a series of jobs, but as part of a team. A family, even. No. She had to stop feeling like that. She wouldn��t— couldn’t— risk it. They were not her family.

As the day drew to a close, Y/n found herself walking back to her quarters after making her rounds with the guards, feeling exhaustion creeping in. But it was a good kind of tired, a feeling of satisfaction mixed with anticipation for the days to come. She had only been in the palace for a short time already, yet each interaction with the princes and Chan had shown her that this role was more than just a job. It was a chance to protect something— someone— that mattered. A chance to be part of something bigger than herself, she couldn’t fail because she let herself become attached.

She took a deep breath, letting the cool evening air fill her lungs. The palace was starting to feel less foreign, the weight of her responsibilities balanced by a sense of purpose and need to succeed.

As she reached her quarters, she took one last glance out at the sprawling gardens below, silently vowing to protect these young men, not just out of duty but from a newfound sense of loyalty.

This would be her life for now. A new chapter, filled with challenges and camaraderie, trust and vigilance. And as she closed her door behind her and lay in her bed, Y/n knew she would face whatever lay ahead with unwavering resolve.

—

In the quiet hours of the night, long after the castle had fallen silent, Y/n's sleep twisted into turmoil. Shadows crept into her mind, coiling around old memories— terrifying memories she wished she could forget but only came alive whenever her guard was down.

She was small again, barely ten years old, sitting on the edge of her bed in the large chamber she had once shared with her little sister who now slept down the hall, bathed in the moonlight coming through the window as she waited for her parents to come tuck her in. It was a soft, familiar light, casting long shadows across her room. But then, the shadows seemed to stretch, growing darker, more ominous. A muffled crash from the main hall broke the stillness, and she heard faint, hurried whispers just outside her door. A sinking feeling, deep and sickly, grew in her stomach as she tiptoed to the doorway, hands trembling as she pressed her ear against the wood.

Footsteps— many of them— echoed through the hallway. Her father’s voice, low and tense, reached her ears, but before she could make out his words, there was a thud, followed by a strangled cry. Her heart pounded painfully, the blood rushing in her ears as she listened, terrified, to the chaos erupting beyond the safety of her bedroom door.

She cracked the door open, peering into the hall just in time to see a flash of silver—a blade, gleaming wickedly in the moonlight. She stifled a gasp as a man, cloaked and masked, drove the sword into her father’s chest, the nobleman’s eyes wide with a mixture of pain and defiance. Her mother, standing a few paces behind, screamed, her face a mask of horror as her eight year old sister hid her sobs against their mother’s leg. Y/n’s body froze as she watched her mother reach for her father, only to be pulled away by another assailant who struck her across the face as another grabbed her sister who screamed and thrashed in the unknown man’s arms.

Tears stung Y/n’s eyes, and she clamped a hand over her mouth, desperately trying not to make a sound. She stumbled back into her room, but the floor creaked underfoot, and one of the masked men looked up, his gaze locking onto her door. His eyes were cold and unfeeling, and she knew in that moment that if he found her, she would not survive.

Her mother screamed again, shouting for Y/n to run, but she couldn’t move. Fear kept her rooted to the spot. She watched, helpless, as the men dragged her parents and sister down the hallway, out of her sight, their desperate cries fading until there was nothing but silence. The only sound left was her own rapid, shallow breathing.

The nightmare twisted further, her vision blurring, and suddenly, she was standing in a strange, dark void, the faint echo of her mother’s screams ringing in her ears. She could feel a heavy hand on her shoulder, pulling her back into the memories, but it was too late— the darkness had her, and she woke with a gasp.

Her eyes shot open, and she sat up in bed, clutching the covers as her heart raced, her skin clammy and cold. Her chest heaved as she tried to calm herself, but her mind was still in the nightmare, trapped in the helplessness and fear of that awful night. She buried her face in her hands, trying to chase away the lingering images, but they clung to her mind like shadows.

Realizing she wouldn’t be able to sleep again anytime soon, Y/n slipped out of bed, wrapping a cloak around her shoulders before quietly leaving her quarters. She needed to walk, to breathe, to remind herself that she was here, in the safety of the castle, not in the nightmare of the worst night of her childhood.

The dimly lit corridors of the palace stretched before her, silent and empty. She walked slowly, her footsteps echoing softly as she wound her way through the newly familiar paths, letting the cool air calm her racing heart. Without realizing it, she found herself at the entrance to the library, the large oak doors looming before her. Libraries were one of her favorite places, a sanctuary of sorts, and as she pushed open the door, the faint smell of aged parchment and leather-bound tomes filled her senses.

She slipped inside, letting the stillness settle over her like a balm. She walked among the shelves, her fingers trailing over the spines of books, drawing comfort from their silent presence. But as she turned down one of the aisles, she caught sight of a familiar figure sitting at a nearby table, his face illuminated by the soft glow of a single candle.

Prince Yeosang sat alone, his gaze distant as he thumbed through the pages of an old book. He looked peaceful but troubled, his brow slightly furrowed as if he were lost in thought. Y/n hesitated, unsure if she should interrupt him, but something about his quiet presence eased the remnants of her fear.

She cleared her throat softly, and his gaze shifted, his eyes meeting hers. He seemed startled at first, but recognition softened his expression, and he offered a small, weary smile.

“Viper,” he greeted her in a low voice. “I didn’t expect to see anyone here at this hour.”

“Nor did I,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper as she stepped closer. “I couldn’t sleep.”

He nodded, as if understanding perfectly what she meant, without her having to even utter a work of the nightmares that plagued her mind. “Neither could I,” he admitted, closing the book and setting it aside. “I find myself coming here often on nights like this. It’s quiet… comforting.”

She took a seat across from him, allowing the silence to settle between them. For a moment, they simply sat there, each lost in their own thoughts, bound by a shared, unspoken understanding. In the flickering candlelight, Yeosang looked contemplative, his usual guarded expression softened by the intimacy of the late hour.

“Do you… ever have nightmares?” she found herself asking, the words slipping out before she could stop herself.

His gaze flicked up to meet hers, a shadow passing over his eyes as if he were remembering the hauntings that plagued his own mind in the late hours of the night. “More often than I care to admit,” he replied quietly. “Memories have a way of haunting us, don’t they?”

She nodded, feeling a strange sense of relief in his words. “Yes,” she whispered. “They do.”

They sat in silence once more, the weight of shared understanding settling comfortably between them. Yeosang’s presence was calming, a quiet reassurance that reminded her she wasn’t alone in her struggles. She hadn’t expected this, hadn’t anticipated finding solace in the presence of one of the princes she was sworn to protect, but in that moment, she felt a flicker of peace. A long forgotten feeling.

After a while, Yeosang leaned back in his chair, his gaze softening as he looked at her. “Thank you for being here, Viper,” he said quietly. “I know we’re the ones who need protecting, but… sometimes, I think we’re all in need of someone to share the silence with.”

A small smile tugged at her lips, and she nodded, feeling a warmth bloom in her chest. “You’re welcome, Your Highness,” she replied, her voice soft but steady as she stared out the large window at the moon as it lit the clear night sky and illuminated the inside of the library with its tranquil gaze.

In the quiet of the library, surrounded by shadows and the soft glow of candlelight, Y/n felt her heart settle. The memories still lingered, but for the first time in years, they felt a little less heavy, softened by the gentle presence of someone who understood.

“Just Yeosang is fine.”

Previous // Next

Taglist: @kaitlinrsmall69 @shotaswife @paralumanniluna

Red tags mean I could not tag you

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minkiverse · 7 months ago

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KIM HONGJOONG FIC RECS

Poly!Ateez Pt. 1 - Pt. 2 - Park Seonghwa - Jeong Yunho - Kang Yeosang - Choi San - Song Mingi - Jung Wooyoung - Choi Jongho

Next up we have the Captain himself!~ I feel like Joong is always written so interestingly because for one, he is part of the demon line but he is also a silly lil goof my shorty in blue 😩😩 Just so you know, I have not read many series for individual Ateez members (feel free to recommend any!!!), so most of these will be one-shots or drabbles. As always, I hope you enjoy and support these authors!!

DISCLAIMER none of these works are mine and majority are MATURE 18+, please review all warnings before reading!!!

Key:

✨ - My Favs

🔥 - Smut (MINORS DNI)

⛈️ - Angst

💗 - Fluff

🍑 - Humor

SERIES

Wanbelyn - @songmingisthighs ⛈️💗🍑 SMAU ✧ Dad!Hongjoong ✧ Doctor AU

expect to see this author on almost all the masterlists because their SMAU 🤌🤌🤌 like you couldn't pry my phone out of my hands when i'm reading these fics 😭😭 this one is the first i got to follow along with as they updated so i am emotionally attached to wanbelyn!joong, the mc, and kijoong MY BABY 😭😭

ONE-SHOTS/DRABBLES/ETC

This World - @hongism 🔥⛈️💗Outlaw AU ✧ Ateez Lore

The Captain's Favorite - @edenesth ⛈️💗 Pirate AU

Untitled - @sanspuppet 🔥

Ruin Me - @sxcret-garden 🔥

Untitled - @yourfatherlucifer 🔥

marigold - @yoongiseesawmp3 🔥💗 College AU

Invisible Man Hongjoong - @justaaveragereader 🔥 Slasher AU

Morning Haze - @nateezfics 🔥

wetting your lips - @k-hotchoisan 🔥 Sugar Daddy AU

the shoe on the other foot - @bro-atz 🔥 Idol AU

tone - @puddingyun 🔥Idol AU

he's kinda hot - @ohmyamor 🔥⛈️💗 Demon AU

yours, mine, & everything in between - @sungbeam 💗

friends to lovers to strangers - @bro-atz 🔥⛈️ Composer AU

Untitled - @thetypingpup 🔥 College AU

on me - @hongism ✨🔥

listen ok 😭😭 sub!joong is such a rare treat that i kinda lose it when i see it but this fic is just so well written and its sensual and intimate and how joong is written is just 😩😩😩

Pretty Pink - @nateezfics ✨🔥

the teasing 😮‍💨😮‍💨 the edging 🤤🤤 the overstim 😩😩😩 this is just really well written smut its so fucking hot you just need to read it!!!👏👏

a wild ride - @bombuni 🔥 College AU

13:00 - @kwanisms 🔥Idol AU

bla bla bla - @yoongiseesawmp3 🔥⛈️ Idol AU

Stupid Games, Stupid Prizes - @last-words-ofashootingstar 🔥⛈️ Rockstar AU

I'm The One - @sorryimananti-romantic ⛈️💗 Royalty AU

you're my desire - @hongism 🔥

bonnie & clyde - @byuntrash101 🔥 Gang AU

duck curtains - @ichorai 💗 Roommate AU

Coachella Rut - @meltingmidas 🔥 Idol AU

Wings and Thorns - @k-hotchoisan 🔥Angels & Demons AU

deal - @hongism 🔥 Roommate AU

while you were sleeping - @seonghwaddict 💗 Producer AU

Mist - @hongthoven 🔥⛈️

boyfriend!texts - @lololololchips 🍑 Idol AU

Business Call - @nateezfics 🔥 CEO AU

Untitled - @thetypingpup 🔥 Hybrid AU

féconder - @yeosgoa ✨🔥 Witch AU

listen okay there is few things hotter than sex potion/sex pollen/anything that makes them so fucking horny they can't think ok ok and this is just desperate joong fucking mc into oblivion its incredible 😵‍💫😵‍💫

Untitled - @thetypingpup 🔥 Hybrid AU

#ateez #ateez fic recs #ateez x reader #ateez smut #ateez angst #ateez fluff #kim hongjoong #hongjoong x reader #hongjoong smut #happy comeback month~~#two days til i tryto get ateez tickets 😭😭#merengue makes lists #5/18/24 update with a few more recs and i forgot to list a fav 😭😭😭😭#also i didn't get tickets 😭😭

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svtdarlingbby · 5 months ago

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You'll Never Be a Secret of Mine- Yeosang x Reader

pairing: prince!Yeosang x courtesan!Reader genre: historical royal au word count: 946

"Someone like me isn't supposed to be with someone like you," you bit, abruptly turning your body away from him to hide the tears welling up in your eyes. The ornate jewelry that adorned you jingled, the wistful chimes practically echoing your status as a courtesan.

Yeosang's silence allowed the weight of your status to settle in the distance created between your two bodies, further illustrating the insurmountable gap between a mere courtesan and a prince like himself.

A single tear rolled down your blushed cheeks. The weight of the warm tear was probably enough to smudge your makeup that you could never be caught not wearing. However, Yeosang has seen your bare face enough times to count, never once complaining and only showering you with praise for both your beauty and kindness. This thought alone encouraged more tears to fall as you tried to battle with the cold truth at hand: Yeosang had fallen for you, and you also returned those feelings.

It was no surprise that this happened. In your line of work, it was known that men with power frequented the brothel. From politicians to generals and even royalty, you've seen your fair share of clients. However, Yeosang was different. He never seemed to be interested in fooling around like the men he was surrounded by. He didn't want it right away, no. He made an effort to get to know you. What your interests were and your likes and dislikes. At first, you were dumbfounded by his actions but you quickly found yourself viewing Yeosang as more than a client. Discussing books and poetry was one of your favorite activities with him. He'd bring you the prettiest roses from the market because the scent reminded him of you as you'd recite some new lines of a poem you drafted the night before. You'd spend your nights not in bed but rather stargazing on the damp lawn with your head resting against his chest as you two interpreted the constellations gazing upon you two like you were the only ones in the world. And when you were in bed together, you realized that this was something else. It wasn't lust. It was something meaningful. Perhaps it was love. Everyone from his world and your world only assumed the typical was occurring between you two. Business transactions if you will. Everyone knew that the courtesans were mere toys for the elite.

But alas, the prince had just confessed his love for you. The forbidden was happening. Maybe reality had not settled for Yeosang yet, but you knew the consequences of giving into these feelings. Your field consisted of transactions, and there was no room for love in a world of lust and money.

The hot pools of tears stung your eyes as you kept your back turned from Yeosang. You fiddled with the delicate gold around your wrists. They have never felt more like handcuffs until now.

"Y/N," spoke up Yeosang softly but boldly. Your lack of response encouraged him to continue. "You're the smartest and most intelligent woman I have ever met. In a world like this, where men like me are expected to find entertainment in the hands of women like you, you only showed me your real self. I don't want you for your body or looks or anything like that. I love you for you."

You stayed silent as the tears began to stream down your cheeks. You couldn't bear hearing more, yet you let him continue.

"I love you for your intelligence across all subjects. Your knowledge and curiosity never ceases to amaze me, and I couldn't find anyone in the palace that knows as much as you," continued Yeosang as he took a step forward.

"I love your love for life. You see the beauty in all things, even someone like me. Some prince that was forced to be here to learn how to act more 'royal'. You taught me true love, something that no one in this Godforsaken palace knows," spoke Yeosang, stepping closer to you.

"And how could I forget your laugh? I know we discuss poetry all the time, but I can't find any words to describe just how much I love your laugh. You make me feel safe, like I can actually be a human instead of some prince," Yeosang spoke softly, now standing directly behind you.

He raised a delicate hand onto your shoulder, his touch comforting amidst your emotions.

"Your status never mattered to me. Y/N L/N, you'll never be a secret of mine," whispered Yeosang, his honesty sending chills down your body. "I want to give you a better life with all the poetry and roses you deserve. And no one, not even our statuses are going to stand in the way. I'm going to protect you forever."

His words squeezed your aching heart. The knot in your throat only became tighter as you considered what he said. It was clear as day that he meant every word, but you knew that it would be hard for you to ever be accepted as a royal. But you also knew that you could not live a life without Yeosang in it. Sighing, you turned around bearing your tear stained face to your love. Yeosang's eyes softened as he delicately wiped your tears with his thumbs before pulling you into his chest. This action combined with his words was enough to make you cry again.

"I love you so much Yeosang," you muttered against his chest as he ran a comforting hand over your back and through your hair.

"I love you too Y/N. It'll be okay. I promise."

#ateez x reader #yeosang x reader #yeosang imagines #ateez imagines #ateez x y/n #yeosang x you #yeosang x y/n #ateez fic #ateez drabbles #atz x reader #atz imagines

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star-my · 7 months ago

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Ateez Fic Recs ☆ Tumblr

These are all available on tumblr as of April 2024. Some are likely crossposted on ao3 as well.

~Ao3 RECS HERE~

Almost all are complete works, those with “+” after WC are incomplete.

Most of these are Mature or Explicit (usually because of smut) ~ mdni ~ italicized titles rated G or T ~ Please read responsibly

If any authors tagged here wish to be removed/untagged, please lmk! | Shoutout to @thecarnivaloflies for creating their own rec list that I gathered some of these from!

OT8/Multi

☆ Arranged Marriage with Prince!Ateez scenarios by @nateezfics | Prince AU, Arranged Marriage AU | 6k

☆ Black Ocean series by @bvidzsoo | Pirate AU, Siren AU, Royalty AU | 14-40k each

☆ Hooked by @songmingisthighs | SMAU Uni AU, Fake Dating AU |

☆ boyfriend!ateez discovering you write smut scenarios by @eightmakesonebraincell | SMAU |

☆ Rating BFF!Ateez as Valentine's dates by @bluehwale | SMAU |

☆ Blue Bird by @seonghwaddict | Mafia AU | CS + JWY | 7k

☆ one more rep by @cheollipop | PT AU, Model AU | CS + JWY | 7k

☆ time of love by @desayunho | SMAU Neighbours AU | CS + JWY |

☆ Arriba by @teeskz | Uni AU | KHJ + JYH + CS + SMG + JWY | 13k

☆ Splish Splash by @atozfic | Uni AU, Athlete AU | PSH + JYH + CS + JWY | 20k

☆ Light it Up! by @cybrsan | Hala AU, Dystopian AU | KHJ + PSH | 4k

☆ Triple Threat by @huihuiheart | CS + JWY + CJH | 6k

Kim Hongjoong

☆ Wanbelyn by @songmingisthighs | SMAU, Doctor AU, Single Parent AU, Nanny AU |

☆ Marigold by @yoongiseesawmp3 | F2L Uni AU | 13k

☆ guns and roses by @baekhvuns | E2L Mafia AU | 6k

Park Seonghwa

☆ mr & mrs park by @baekhvns | E2L Mafia AU, Single Parent AU, Nanny AU | 50k

☆ bodyguard by @baekhvns | S2F2L Mafia AU, Bodyguard AU | 38k

☆ just friends by @baekhvuns | R2L Model AU | 37k

☆ paradigm + paradigm, pt 2 by @yoongiseesawmp3 | F2FWB2L Coworkers AU, Bar AU | 12k

☆ facade by @gamerwoo | S2L Arranged Marriage AU, Royalty AU, Assassin AU | 26k

Jeong Yunho

☆ your hand by @smileysuh | Coworkers AU, Tattoo Artist AU | 7k

Kang Yeosang

☆ badboy!yeosang by @ateezmakemeweep | High School AU, Bad Boy AU | 18k

☆ entropy by @in-san-ity | S2F2L Mafia AU, Single Parent AU | 21k

☆ crash landed on you by @atozfic | S2E2F2L Fake Dating AU, Chaebol AU | 20k

☆ Graveyard Dares and Bitemarks by @harmonie-writes | F2L Vampire AU | 5k

☆ Sweeter than Candy by @hwalyn | E2L SMAU (Ongoing), Uni AU |

Choi San

☆ lowkey by @arafilez | FWB2L | 3k

☆ the law of attraction by @yuyusuyu | F2L Uni AU | 3k

☆ perfidy by @in-san-ity | S2F2L Uni AU, Mafia AU | 21k

☆ Will you join me? by @kyun-toast | E2L/R2L Mafia AU, Assassin AU | 3k

☆ after all, you're my wife by @astayinwonderland | Arranged Marriage AU, Mafia AU | 3k

☆ texts with ateez (+ crush san) by @baekhvuns | SMAU

☆ the scentist by @k-hotchoisan | Neighbours AU | 5k

☆ it's you series by @minisugakoobies | BFB AU, Roommates AU, Secret Relationship AU | 9k+

☆ The Art of Climbing the Corporate Ladder series by @ennysbookstore | S2F2L Coworkers AU, Office AU | 29k

☆ Obvious + Claiming by @huihuiheart | Established Relationship AU, Hybrid/Omegaverse AU | 4k

Song Mingi

☆ preying on you tonight by @bvidzsoo | E2L Werewolf AU, Witch AU, Uni AU | 29k

☆ Genesis by @songmingisthighs | S2F2L SMAU, CEO AU |

Jung Wooyoung

☆ upstairs neighbour wooyo series by @mangiverse | SMAU R2F2L Neighbours AU |

☆ tits out by @captain-joongz | BFF2L Uni AU | 7k

☆ body talk series by @jungkxook | BFF2L Uni AU | 28k+

☆ All 'Cause of a Neck Kiss by @cocobeanncteez | F2L | 3k

☆ Two Can Play by @huihuiheart | Werewolf AU | 2k

Choi Jongho

☆ zemblanity by @in-san-ity | S2F2L Mafia AU, Bodyguard AU | 24k

#ateez fic recs #group: atz #member: ot8 #type: fic

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fics-lovebot · 1 year ago

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ateez fic recs

main masterlist

· · ♡ · · tysm to the amazing creative minds of the writers for giving me sevaral moments of joy reading your creations

i´ll be constantly updating this list so make sure to check it out often for new recs

pls remember to reblog if you like any of my recs❤️

divider creds: @i-kyujin

LAST UPDATED: 18/11/2024

ot8 / poly

ateez as boyfriends - ( @sorryimananti-romantic ) smut, the description is so- just read it pls, you´ll get the visuals

loved - ( @a-soft-hornytiny ) angstttty, they make you feel insecure about the relationship so you leave and they start tweaking, i love how this is written, it´s so detailed, part 2

when they have a crush - ( @wonglix ) love love love, so fluffy

realizing they´re in love with you - ( @wonglix ) so fluffly too :(

random bf!ateez texts - ( @hwamphwamp ) fluff, crack, reading this fixed my whole day

hongjoong

the captain´s favorite - ( @edenesth ) fluff, angst, captain!joong, doctor!reader, i love it plss, this series is so good

seonghwa

biker seonghwa - ( @atinycafe ) brother´s best friend! hwa, yeosang as the brother, he is flirtyyy, "pretty girls don't use their pretty mouths to lie", loved it

the general´s wife - ( @edenesth ) military general!hwa, wife!reader, PLSSSS THIS IS SO GOOOODD, he´s so POSSESSIVE LIKE THAT, i need a whole movie of this ongg, had me giggling and kicking my feet bc the concept fits him so well

hwa + glasses - ( @thetypingpup ) smut, pwp, SHUT UPPPP I LOVE IT WHEN MEN TALK YOU THROUGH ITTT, "I see glasses on a guy and I think he’s the type to fuck you stupid" IKTRRRR and this is so detailed too i love it

san

car accident - ( @whatsk-poppinhomies ) angst, angst, angst, aNGSTTTTTT, my god. reader is pregnant with twins, read it you want to fucking crY :)

his princess - ( @hwalloween ) smut, fluff, bad boy! san, innocent spoiled! reader, he´s obsessed with her, so so in love :( when is it my turn to be happy

happy hollow-ween - ( @hwasdvlly ) slice of life, fluff, girl dad!san, idol!san, wife!reader, this is so :´((( wholesome, they go hunting for the perfect pumpkin at the pumpkin patch

i see red - ( @0097linersb ) pwp, fluff if you squint, jealous bf!san, dom!san, this whole thing is craaaaazzyyyyy, “I’m not stopping unless I hear the safe word, you can take it,” SIRR???????? WHY DID HE- AND ALSO, WHY IS HE BEING CUTE AT THE END LIKE ???? i hate him fr

wooyoung

girl dad! wooyoung - ( @redzie02 ) i looove this, i believe he´s made to be a girl dad fs

he´s the type to fuck desperately - (@bandgie ) smut, STOPPPPP I CAN TOTALLY SEE THE VISION, this HAS to be true omg author your mindddd

wouldn´t dream of it - ( @ilovehimyourhonour ) angst, fluff at the end, you weren’t clear and wooyoung thought you were breaking up with him .

mingi

the princess treatment chronicles - ( @yuyusuyu ) fluff, crack, f2l, best friend!mingi, he has this 5 step princess treatment list and falls in love with whoever completes it.. yes, reader gave him princess treatment, as she should. this is really cute, she does everthing on accident and he paniCKS bc they´re besties and all that, very very cute

you´re drunk - ( @atinycafe ) slice of life, I LOVE ITTTTTTTTTT, bf! mingi taking care of drunk oc but she doesn´t recognizes him, he call her "tiny" :(, he fixes her skirt :(((

random bf!mingi texts - ( @sativateez ) i love how this feeds into my delusions

use it - ( @a-soft-hornytiny ) smut, pwp, virgin!mingi, "mingi has a huge dick but is shy about it and has no idea what to do with it" YUUUPPPPPP, as somebody in the coments said, this is some good dumb big dick mingi squad food fr

yeosang

prince yeosang - ( @atinycafe ) royalty au, I LOVETHISSSSSSSS, he´s so husband material :(, it´s so well written

yunho

hands - ( @atinycafe ) smut, "do you want to breathe or do you want to cum" SIR?????

yunho's the type to drink for you at parties - ( @seobinghard ) suggestive, dlkasjdhlkajsh, yunho´s been getting to me lately and this aint helpingggg, he´s hot af

the duke´s weakness - ( @edenesth ) bachelor duke!yunho, dancer!reader, asdljaslkdj nahhh this is so good, he´s been obsessed since he laid eyes on her

stay quiet - ( @desirehorizon ) smut, pervert bf!yunho, "He was splitting you open. In the bathroom. At your parents' house." WHY WOULD HE- ,,,,IT´S A LOT GOING ON IN LESS THAN 450 WORDSSS

jongho

the mapmaker´s assistant - ( @edenesth ) cartographer!jongho, assistant-soon-to be-wife!reader, soon SLDJFHLSJKFDHKSJFH this had me smiling and giggling like a gremling at work

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xlxvesxckx · 2 years ago

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[Turbulence] Ch. I

Synopsis: The Academy was the most prestigious scoop to go to. If you had money, you ruled the school, and if you were poor, you were the stepping stools to the others. And if you're Y/n L/n, your life was going to become a living nightmare.

Pairing: Poly!Ateez x Reader, Original Characters x Reader, Original characters x Ateez.

Au: Academy Au

Theme: Angst, Yandere.

Chapter Synopsis: On your first day you managed to make two friends, one new and one old. Though you quickly realized that your two new friends, were big puzzle pieces in this school

Warnings: None in this chapter...

Word Count: 2.7k words

A/n: I HOPE YOU ALL ENJOY THIS READ! More at the end of the chapter!

꒰ ୨୧ ─ ・┈ ・ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ꒱꒱

Y/n L/n - You, the beautiful reader <3

M/n L/n - Your mother

N/n - Your nickname

꒰ ୨୧ ─ ・┈ ・ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ꒱꒱

Chapter I: [School Royalty and Old Friends.]

꒰ ୨୧ ─ ・┈ ・ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ꒱꒱

The Academy is one of the most prestigious schools to send your children to. It’s a private college that prides itself on how great the school is and how safe it is for your children.

You got into this school by sheer luck.

Thanks to your mothers Alumni status at this school and her catering business supporting the school, she managed to wriggle you into the school.

She knew how much you wanted to go to it and she knew how much you feared community college due to your past.

So the most she could do as a mother was to get you in a safe comfortable environment where she could keep her eyes on you.

She wanted to prevent what had happened to you before…

She wanted to be able to protect you.

—-----

You had come to the school late in the day, so it was around lunch time, many people were moving around and chatting with friends.

Obviously you didn’t have any friends yet, so you decided to go up to the roof to eat your lunch.

The roof has a beautiful sitting area for students. You looked around for somewhere to sit until your eyes fell on a male that was sitting alone.

He had pretty black hair and beautiful brown eyes. He wore a smooth black suit with a white flower on it. He must’ve noticed that you were staring at him, because he turned to look at you, a confused look on his face.

You gave him a soft smile before asking.

“May I sit with you?”

He seemed taken aback by your question. “Do you not know who I am?..” He asked and you rubbed the back of your neck, confused, you tilt your head to the side.

“Am I supposed to?”

The male simply chuckled and patted the seat beside him,

“No, not at all….”

You smile and went over to sit next to him. You take your lunch out of your bag and place it infront of you. “So what is your name?” You asked.

The male seemed to think for a second before answering.

“Kang Yeosang. Yours?”

“(L/n) (Y/n).”

You push your lunch box in the center of the two of you. Yeosang looked down at it with a raised eyebrow. You happily took a bite with a smile on your face, “Do you want some? My moms a caterer and she had some left over from yesterday.”

Yeosang started for a few moments before smiling and taking a piece of chicken from the box, you watched as he happily munching on it. His eyes lit up but he didn’t say anything.

The two of you continued to talk and got to know each other throughout the rest of the lunch period.

You soon hear the bell ring and see Yeosang start to stand up.

“Well, I have to go now. Will I see you around?” He asked and you nodded along.

“Of Course! You’re really nice!” Yeosang's face heats up and he turns his head slightly. When you went to go to stand up, you noticed a mark on his face. It was actually his birthmark and you were captivated by it. You’d never seen a person with one on their face, and to you it fit the male's face perfectly.

Yeosang turned back to you and chuckled, “Thank you…let’s meet up here from now on.”

He sounded almost sad, he was taking his sweet time walking away from you. Before he left the roof he turned to wave to you before finally leaving off the roof.

You waited until he was gone to let out a squeal of excitement and embarrassment.

On your first day, an attractive guy talked to you and became your friend with barely any effort!

You kept thinking about it, it was on your mind until you got back home.

Your mother was in the kitchen preparing dinner for the two of you when you slammed the front door open.

“MOTHER!!!” You yelled at the top of your lungs, spooking her a bit. You see her come into the living room to see your happy face.

She placed a hand on her heart and gave you a playful hit on your shoulder. “God! You can’t do that Darling! You nearly gave your momma a heart attack!”

You giggled happily as you flopped on the couch. “I met a really cute boy today at school and he wants to continue meeting up with me at school!!!” You say nearly falling off the couch as you trailed off.

Your mother giggled softly as she watched your little freak out.

Your mother helped you off the floor and led you to the kitchen, she sat you down and allowed you to ramble on about Yeosang. “I’m so happy for you pumpkin..” She said in response and it earned a bright smile from you.

Your mother smiled as she turned back to cooking, she sighed to herself.

She was happy that you were getting along with others already. She didn’t know if she could handle another incident. She had to keep you safe.

She had to make sure you continued to be happy and okay.

—---------------------------------------------

The next day you were giddy, and you arrived on campus excited to start your first full day of classes.

You walked in waiting for class when you saw a group of girls excitedly waiting by one of the school entrances.

“Oh my god! Here he comes!!”

“He’s so attractive!!”

“Look at me! I’m so perfect for you!!!”

You rolled your eyes, trying to push pass the many girls to try to get to your classroom only to have your eyes widen as they fell onto who they were screaming for.

It was Yeosang, and as soon as he arrived girls swarmed him.

That’s probably why he asked if you knew who he was, this boy was practically school royalty it seems!

You stared in awe, not meaning to make eye contact with Yeosang. He smiled at you before pushing past people to make it over to you.

You watched as the other girls surrounding him parted like the red sea and allowed him to get to you. When he finally reached you, he grabbed your hands with a gentle smile.

“I didn’t know you were a new student Y/n. You should’ve told me.” You shook your head,

“It wasn’t that important…how’d you find out anyways?” Yeosang averted his eyes for a bit.

“I’ll tell you later, let me walk you to class..”

You had no say in the matter as the male grabbed your hand and took you to your first period class. You could feel the eyes staring into the back of your head.

The jealous murmurs were loud in your ears and suddenly the hand that you were holding felt hot.

“Who is she?”

“And who does she think she is?”

“Idk but she has no right being that close to Yeosang..”

“She looks like a poor welfie bitch…”

You knew that this was going to cause problems for you in the future but you really couldn’t think about that with Yeosang being around you. It was like he had this calming aura around him.

Your first class was Digital media and Yeosang waved you goodbye and walked away from the door. You smiled and turned to walk into the classroom. You went to sit at a computer in the back of the class and sat down.

You noticed some others walking in after you, all talking to each other and picking other seats. You looked down at your phone to text your mother that you got to your class safely.

You heard ruffling around, then a voice.

“N/n..is that you?”

That voice made you freeze, when you raised your head you made eye male with short dark colored hair, he had rounded glasses on and dressed in oversized fashion and a camera hung around his neck.

It took you a moment before your memory clicked.

“Hongjoong!” You got up out your chair and hugged the male tightly who excitedly hugged you back.

Kim Hongjoong was your best friend from your highschool, he was your protector, always hovering behind you and making sure that you were okay. The two of you were big art nerds, always in the art studio or outside taking pictures with his camera.

You thought you would never see him again…after the incident…

—

“No!! Please wake up y/n….”

You could barely keep your eyes open, your body felt like shit. It felt like it was on fire, your blood was pulsing through you as you laid on the studio floor.

It was wet around you…you couldn’t tell if it was blood or paint solvant.

You heard footsteps coming towards you as your head was now placed in someones lap.

“H..hongjoong?...”

“Shh…just hold on y/n..”

Your memory was hazy, the most you could remember was waking up in the ICU. You could hear the anger in your mothers voice and the concern in Hongjoong’s mother’s tone. The both of them were talking (or yelling) at who you could only assume was the chancellor of the school.

Whenever critical events happened involving students, he would arrive to assess the situation.

Your mother told you it was only to save face.

You could feel a warm hand on yours, and you assumed it was Joong.

“That’s it! I am pulling my daughter out of your school!!”

Those words shattered Hongjoong’s heart. He knew damned well that if he was with you that day, if he would have listened to his better judgment and followed you to your class. That you wouldn’t be in this predicament, that you would be fine…

And that you wouldn’t be leaving him..

“Please…don’t take her away from me…”

“Don’t take my bestfriend…”

—-

Hongjoong’s sigh breaks you out of your trance as he finally pulls away from you. He gets a good look at your face before breaking out into a big grin.

“I’m so glad to see you again…” “Same to you Joongie…” You replied, the nickname making a soft blush cross the males face.

Hongjoong then moved to sit down beside you as the teacher finally came in to start your class period.

The two of you barely ended up paying attention at all to the professor as you mostly caught up on everything you missed. You had blocked out the world and the only thing you were focused on was your best friend and how much you missed him.

What broke the two of you out of your little trance was the bell that signaled the end of class, luckily Hongjoong’s schedule was the same as yours, so he made sure he walked with you to class, his hand wrapped tightly around yours.

But as you walked around with Hongjoong you could feel more and more jealous stares burning holes into the back of your head. You didn’t dare to look up to meet the eyes of the girls who were obviously jealous.

You really hoped and prayed that Hongjoong wasn’t popular like Yeosang and had fangirls, though…

The comments you heard said otherwise.

“Not hongjoong too!”

“That fucking slut!”

“Does she really think she can waltz in here and take not one, but two members of Ateenagerz.”

You gripped Hongjoong’s hand tighter, keeping the group name in the back of your head.

You just wanted to get to and from class without any hassle. You didn’t want them, they were just your friends, one of which you had literally just met!

Though you made a mental note when you got home to look up that group name.

School went by fast, especially with Hongjoong by your side. He waited beside you as you waited for your mom to arrive. “I bet your mom will be surprised to see me..” he jokes, nudging you.

You rolled your eyes at him playfully, “Yea sure, I’m pretty sure she misses her fake son..” You replied, starting to walk up as you noticed her car pull up.

You hopped in the passenger side as Hongjoong came over to the window, waving to you mother. She took a moment to realize who that was until she let out a huge excited gasp.

“Kim Hongjoong!?” She exclaimed and he chuckled at her.

“In the flesh, it’s nice to see you again Miss (L/n)”

Your mom looked at you and you gave the look that said ‘I’ll explain later’. She nodded and gave the boy a bright smile. “Well if you’re here I know my Y/n is in good hands..” he nods and winks at the two of you.

“You know it! See you tomorrow N/n!” He waved goodbye and went over to a group of 7 boys, and you could’ve sworn you saw Yeosang amongst that group.

That only made you pull out your phone quicker. There was a website that your school had that allowed you to see all organizations on campus. You learned this from the bit of Digital Media class that you managed to pay attention to.

You talked to your mom about your day on the way home as you decide to search of the group name you heard the girls mention.

‘Ateenagerz…’

You hit send.

And your eyes widened.

[Ateenagerz is a group of 8 bestfriends, they are a mixing pot of some of the best of the best in the school. Not only that, they help out around the school and are the head of most extracurricular clubs. Ateenagerz is just their main group, a club of popular friends who sometimes make music…]

And just your fucking luck.

Your new friend, Yeosang was a member, you spotted him first in the picture that they had on the school’s website.

But that wasn’t all. Not only was Hongjoong also a member.

He was the leader of the goddamn club.

“Fuck…”

—-----

“Hyung…”

Hongjoong stopped editing the pictures he had taken today to turn to see Yeosang standing in the doorway.

Yeosang walked over with a gentle smile. “I didn’t know you knew Y/n…” Hongjoong hummed in response, leaning back in his chair. “Mhm…she’s my bestfriend…” He starts before sitting back up, he then goes to open a file on his computer. He motions for Yeosang to come closer.

He smiles at the younger male, “It took me a while to find her, but I didn’t expect for her to waltz right into our school..” He answers, anaylzing your school files. He sighed longingly as he looked at your school picture.

“I’m just glad she’s okay…” He mumbles and Yeosang nods. “We need to tell the others to be on the lookout for her. I refuse to let what happened to her happen again.”

“Alright. I’ll send a message in the groupchat now.”

Hongjoong hummed as his phone pinged, signaling that Yeosang had sent the message.

[K. Yeo to Ateenzagerz]

K.Yeo: We’ve found her :). Everyone please come to the Digital Media Classroom for emergency meeting.

Joong: That means now. It's urgent.

WooYoung: Awww…right now? Me and San were just about to go get food..

Joong: Your ass better be here before 5;30 or else.

WooYoung:...Jeez..yes captain…damn.

Sannie: Gotcha! I’ll grab Jongho, Mingi and Yunho! They had practice.

Hwa<;3: Already was on the way. I also have some more information.

Hongjoong smiled down at his phone.

He wasn’t going to let you get harmed again. He refused to let you get harmed again.

And he was going to make sure no one dared lay a finger on you again.

“I finally found you again….N/n”

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Extra lil info!:

*Reader-chan is a sophomore in college alongside Jongho.

*Mingi, San, Wooyoung, Yunho and Yeosang are all Juniors.

*Seonghwa and Hongjoong are Seniors.

*Hongjoong and Y/n went to the same Highschool before the Incident happened, the incident happened her sophomore year, his senior year. Hongjoong still has nightmares.

*Mama (L/n) is a caterer, and whatever school Y/n attends, she offers her services for special school events.

*ATEENAGERZ is the hub group for the boys, they are all apart of different clubs/organizations. Will explain more later.

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I hope you all enjoyed this first chapter of Turbulence!

I will try to be more consistent with posting and the boys aren’t gonna show their sides yet! Well…only Hongjoong slightly!

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If you'd like to support my work, here's my kofi!

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#ateez x reader #ateez fanfic #yandere ateez #yandere ateez x reader #kim hongjoong x reader #kang yeosang x reader #hongjoong x reader #yeosang x reader #yandere ateez fanfic #ateez imagines #ateez scenarios #poly ateez #poly ateez x reader #lxve's writings ^~^#Fanfic: [Turbulence]

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