#taehyung historical

[thedoctorsthings]

Power to the king | Min Yoongi pt. 2

Fantasy/historical AU, viking Au (attempted lmao), Yoongi x female reader

More angst (you know me by now), Yoongi is still an asshole, things taking a dramatic turn

cw: sexism, mentions of war, Jungkook's humour (I've decided I'm blaming my painful unfunnyness on the character now)

word count: about 3k

Yoongi and you had been married for a month now and you’d kept your promise. You were ice cold, you only talked when spoken to and you hadn’t as much as smiled in Yoongi’s general direction. The servants and everyone else in the castle treated you with respect and subservience. One might even say they seemed scared of you. Only you knew this all to be a farse. At night, when you were alone you cried yourself to sleep. It had been a month and you’d made little progress. Every day felt as empty as the last. Days before the wedding your mother had told you that an arranged marriage without love wasn’t as bad as people made it out to be. She said you would find things to love, running the household or eventually your children. But as a princess there was no household to run and how were you supposed to have children if your husband wouldn’t even look at you. You admit that you did want children. If you couldn’t have your husband close to you at least you would have them. They would be something that you could devote yourself to in this empty life. Since your wedding night you and Yoongi hadn’t spoken about the subject again. You assumed he would come knocking on your door every night, asking over and over. This was the way most of the men you’d met and heard of acted when it came to sex, but he left you alone. It seemed that maybe it was up to you to come to his door, but over your dead body were you going to give in to him first.

You got out of bed and got dressed. It was customary for maids to help women of your status with this, but you had quickly made an end to this habit by sending the maids out every morning. Now they didn’t even bother coming in anymore. The typical attire of a princess consisted of a white underdress and a heavy garment over it. Today you chose a blue dress. You leave your room and head to the dining room for breakfast. Yoongi is already sitting at the table. You were infinitely thankful for the rest of his family and the ever-present servants. If they weren’t here every moment you spent in the same room as Yoongi would be spent in agonising silence. You always sat next to your husband, as was customary. His brother sat next to you on your other side. Jungkook was a small dash of light in the dark tunnel that your life had become. He was nice, funny and actually tried to engage in conversation with you. He was the reason your days here weren’t spent in complete loneliness. You had no romantic feelings for him, but still found yourself wishing you’d have been married off to him instead. Marriage with him might have been easier, might have worked better than with Yoongi. “Good morning, your majesty. How did you sleep?”, Jungkook asks in that overly polite tone he often liked to use with you. “Nothing to complain about, my lord”, you replied, equally nasal. “Not really suitable for a prince to be playing games with his future queen, is it?”, sounded a grumpy voice from your right. You had already noticed that Yoongi didn’t appreciate it when you had too much fun with Jungkook. It made you want to do it all the more. At this comment you settle your gaze on the empty chair in front of you, the one where the queen is supposed to sit, and rigidly stare at it. “We are expected to attend next week’s festivities together”, Yoongi poses and somehow his voice sounds softer. He’s bent slightly towards you, but you stay unmoving. “okay”. Yoongi finishes the rest of his meal in silence as you occasionally say something to Jungkook. As Yoongi gets up, he says: “your chambermaid will tell you when it is time to prepare. She’ll give you the clothes you’re expected to wear as well”. You merely nod. 

Yoongi walks through the huge, stone hallways while lost in thought. He got what he wanted, a wife that never let her emotions get the best of her, one that was rational and let him do as he wanted. You were perfect, there was nothing you did wrong, and somehow, he still despised you. Whenever he tried to make contact with you, you rejected him. There was nothing but one-word answers from your side. He felt that you hated him and that made him dislike you. He knew he would never be as charming as Jungkook, but you could at least try to form some sort of friendship with him. The most important reason however, was that he hated the way he felt when he looked at your emotionless face. You looked like all life had been sucked out of you, while at the same time there was a deep silence lying in the still waters of your eyes. It made him feel horrible, it was his fault, he’d never admit it. He knocked on the door of his mother’s bedchambers. “Come in”, he heard her weak voice call. He pushed open the heavy, wooden door and stepped into the room. She was sitting half upright on the bed, leaning against a mountain of pillows. The sunlight coming from the high windows hit her face nicely. He sat down in the chair next to her. “How is married life, son?” “To be honest, I barely talk to her”. The queen looked at him with a questioning look. “I just don’t really like talking to her”. “Why?” Yoongi sighed and stayed quiet for a while. He made a vague gesture with his arm and shrugged: “It’s like she’s not really there. When she always responds as short as possible and only speaks when spoken to. I think I don’t like talking to her because I know she doesn’t like me either”. His mother looks out the window a second, before speaking: “You think she’s cold?” “Yes exactly”. “Yoongi, you’re my son and I love you, but you’re not the warmest person either. Maybe that’s why she doesn’t like talking to you either”. “But I try so hard to seek contact with her”. “I think a husband and wife should have more than just contact”, the queen said, smiling. Yoongi was quiet again. “Could it be that you feel guilty?” At this Yoongi got up: “No that’s not it!”, he said raising his voice. “No need to get angry”, she said calmly. “I’m not, I just have things to do”, was the last thing he said before leaving the room.

You’re walking through the gardens of the castle. It was spring now and getting warmer. In this kingdom, warmer still meant well below what others find agreeable, but your people were used to it. People had started dressing lighter and the sun shone more often. You also felt lighter. After months of basically ignoring your husband, you had decided to be more welcoming. Your sister had been right. As a woman all you could do was make the best of it. About a week ago you had started being nicer to Yoongi. You smiled at him during meals and asked him how his day was going. Yesterday you spent the evening together playing a traditional board game. You suggested it. It was nice, you’d laughed together for the first time ever, even if it was still awkward. Things started looking up, maybe you could find happiness here after all. You let your hand brush over the newly growing flowers and enter the halls. Tonight was the night of the festivities and you planned to go to your husband and ask him what was expected of you tonight. You could ask any of your maids, but this was the perfect opportunity to spend more time with Yoongi. As you near the corner you hear giggling. Your ears perk, even with Jungkook’s presence everything happening at the castle was a grim affair. Giggling was not something often heard around these parts. “Your majesty, behave”, you hear a female voice tease. Dread fills your stomach. You round the corner and there he is, his hand on her lower back, his nose in her hair as she opens a door. He looks up for a split second. You don’t know if he saw you, you’re still quite far away from them. Even if he did see you, it clearly doesn’t matter to him, because he and the maid enter the room. You hear shushing and more giggling and then the door shuts. You welcome her back with open arms. That all familiar emptiness, or at least that’s what you wish this feeling is. It’s not, it’s pain. It hurts you more to admit it. It’s horrible to realise that you let this man get to you. You promised yourself you would never feel again when it came to him and here you were, seeing blurry from the tears trying to find your way back to your rooms.

Tonight’s festival marked the beginning of spring. Everyone in the city gathered on the main square every year to sing, dance and eat together. It was your favourite thing as a child. Today was the first year you couldn’t enjoy it. You were expected to walk through the crowd at the height of the festival. The king and queen first, although the queen wouldn’t attend due to her illness, then the crown prince and his wife and lastly the second born son. You’re waiting in the carriage. You and Yoongi are seated next to each other, Jungkook sitting opposite of you. The air is tense. You still have no idea if Yoongi noticed you earlier today. You have a feeling that he might have because he’s tenser than usual. So are you. “Alright someone say something before the awkwardness drives me to jump out of the vehicle”, Jungkook says while uncomfortably squirming on his bench. You and Yoongi both remain silent. “By Odin, I bet the mute choachman is better company than you people”. At this you let out a giggle, that in its turn makes Yoongi scoff. Wanting to relieve Jungkook of his suffering you offer: “What do you think the head druid will predict tonight? I hope not another failed harvest like last year”. “Me personally, I’ve been hoping for golden rain ever since I was a kid”, Jungkook jokes with that signature, boyish grin of his. “The druid’s prophecy is no laughing matter Jungkook, Y/N is right. We better hope for a fruitful harvest this year”. “Alright Mr. Cranky, maybe you should jump out of the carriage”, is the last thing Jungkook mumbles before getting kicked in the shin by his older brother. This time you laugh out loud and even if it was just unconsciously, Yoongi is proud that he was finally part of the reason why.

Your carriage arrives after the king’s and when you get out the mass of people outside cheer so loud you almost cover your ears. Almost, because you’re sure that if you did Yoongi would have something to say about it later. You and Yoongi link arms, which is probably the most intimate you’ve been since the wedding. You walk through the path of people to the thrones that have been set up at the head of the square. There are six thrones. The king and Yoongi sit on the two most extravagant ones in the middle. You sit next to Yoongi and Jungkook next to you. Two men are already sitting on the thrones next to the king. These are the head druid and his apprentice. At the end of the evening, they will perform a ritual to predict the fate of the kingdom. During the meal you and Yoongi barely exchange a word. After however, when you’re watching the city’s people dance, Yoongi chuckles at seeing a young man almost trip and light his hair on fire with one of the torches. The man manages to do a sort of twirl and prevent this horrible fate from happening. “That’s Jimin”, Yoongi states: “He’s a bit of an idiot but a good man. He’s the son of the farmer that delivers food to the castle. You might have seen him help his father with the deliveries, the old man is getting sicker and sicker”. You haven’t digested the events of this morning yet and honestly the fact that he’s acting as if nothing happened is pissing you off. “So, you’re just going to act like I didn’t see you grope a maid this morning?”, you ask without looking at him. “Y/N”, Yoongi start, but he’s interrupted by the booming voice of the king. You hate that man for the way he talks to you and for the way he speaks of his wife as if she’s a burden, but you have to admit you’ll always have respect for the way he can make a crowd of hundreds of people shut their mouths. “People of Sargon, turn your eyes to the fire. The Druid will perform the prophecy!”. His voice could reach the deafest of men. The druid got up. You had never seen him from this close. He was quite a young man; most druids were older than stone. He had pitch black hair filled with silver jewelry. It ran over his broad shoulders like a black waterfall. When he turned to bow to the king you saw his face. In your nineteen years of life, you had never seen a man so handsome. After that, his apprentice got up and turned to do the same. This man had dark eyes and an almost equally handsome face. “I think these druids have a potion to make themselves look better, it’s not fair”, Jungkook whispers. “You look fine Jungkook don’t worry about it”, you smile back. “Don’t ya think I oughtta get to the bottom of this then ey?”, he asks in that accent you’ve gotten so used to. “Yes Jungkook, as prince of the kingdom I think you should make it your first priority to find interrogate two druids on why they look so good”, you retort. “Exactly my thoughts”, he grins, but he can barely finish the sentence because Yoongi reaches over you to softly hit his brother upside the head. The druids walk over to the huge fire. The head druid reaches into his pocket and takes out some dried leaves. His apprentice is holding a wooden bowl with a purple looking oil in it. He dips the leaves in the oil and then throws them on the fire. For a moment, nothing happens. The square trembles with suspension. All of a sudden, the flames turn black. In all the years you’ve attended the festival you’ve never seen a fire this dark. It roars and seems to double in size. The head druid is caught off guard and stumbles to the ground. The flames shoot higher than ever, before turning back to their normal size and colour. Everyone is quiet. The man named Jimin, who was laughing seconds before is now looking at the druid with fear in his eyes. That same fear is visible in the eyes of each person in attendance. You feel the heat on your face fade away as the druid whispers: “war”.

After the druid had uttered the word war a shock wave had rolled over the square. The king had ordered the druid and his apprentice to accompany you back to the palace. Once arrived there, he immediately called all his advisors to gather in the main hall. You and Yoongi had followed them in. “What is she doing here?” the king’s voice sounded throughout the entire hall. “She’s my wife and the future queen of this kingdom. She needs to know what’s going on”, Yoongi defended. “Your mother never sat in on things like this”. “I plan on doing things differently”, Yoongi said sternly. The king grumbled but didn’t complain further. “Seokjin, what is the meaning of this”, the king yelled angrily, as if it was the druid’s fault that the fire had behaved this way. “I don’t know your majesty; all I know is that this means war. I don’t know with whom. I don’t know how long, and I don’t know how high our chances of winning are. The rest of the of the evening was spent with old men arguing with even older men about what to do. Eventually they concluded that we would have to wait. After hours the druids had managed to convince the king and his advisors that it was too early to decide anything, but the king decided to start training his men more fervently.

After this evening regular life continued, albeit with a dark cloud hanging above all your heads. Everyone seemed stressed and anxious at all times. You and Yoongi also went back to normal. Normal meant back to how it was before you decided to be nicer. You never brought up the affair with the maid again, and neither did he. That evening at dinner the king showed, once again, why everyone tried to stay as far away from him as possible. “Why is she not pregnant yet?”, the king asked, although a better term would be, demanded. Of course he didn’t ask you. He asked Yoongi and acted as if you weren’t in the room, like always when he said something about you. “I don’t know father. We haven’t had any luck yet”, Yoongi answers stoically, without looking up from his plate”. “I bet it’s her fault. She’s barren and tricked us into marrying her into this family”. “That is not it!” You raise your voice. You’ve barely ever said a word at this table and the king is made of the same thing your nightmares are made of, but you refuse to let him talk about you. The room becomes impossibly tense as the king looks at you. It almost felt as if you could feel his stare sting in your eyes. “Father, you will not talk about my wife like this”. Yoongi says calmly. “Oh, really son? So it’s not her fault? Is it yours then?” Yoongi and the king share 5 full seconds of murderous eye contact before the king delivers the final blow. “I should have known. The God’s refuse to bless you with an heir after what you’ve done”. Yoongi slams his fists on the table and gets up so roughly his chair falls to the ground. He storms out of the room and the sound of the door slamming can be felt in your ears long after he leaves.

Later that evening you are sitting in your chambers. You’re reading a novel when there’s a knock on your door. “Come in”, You say curtly. Yoongi steps into the room. He doesn’t peek his head in first like the servants do. He always enters rooms with the confidence of someone who belongs, something you could only dream of. At least now, when you were a child, you could do the same thing. Somewhere along the way you lost the confidence. It happened to every woman in this godforsaken kingdom. “We should talk about producing an heir”, Yoongi offers carefully. “Oh really, now you want to come to me. For months on end, you leave me alone in the cold of the night but when daddy dearest brings it up you listen”, you bite. “I just think he raises a good point. We’ve been married for months and people will start expecting good news soon”. “What is it really? Are you starting to get lonely, does our stone-cold crown prince need someone to warm his bed?” halfway through that sentence you had gotten up and started getting closer to him. He grabs you by the wrist of the hand you had been pointing in his face with: “You will not speak to your future king in that way!”, he spits through his teeth. You refuse to stand down, so you say: “Maybe my future king should go find another servant to produce a successor with, I bet she speaks to you in whatever way you want, doesn’t she?” Yoongi lets go of your hand. For a moment it looks like he’s about to say something, maybe even apologise. But then he disappears from the room without saying a word. You flop down on your bed. Maybe you were too harsh. You have to admit that you did desire a child to raise. It would give you something to do, someone to love in this cold castle. You would also be lying if you said you didn’t desire Yoongi in that way. When you saw him and that council hall a couple of weeks back. When he had argued with his father about protecting the country, when he had argued to stay calm and not make any rash decisions, he seemed in his element. He was good at this, he was good at strategy, he was a born leader. Seeing him like that had shot a feeling through your body like you’d never felt before.

taglist: @lifeless-firefly @emerald-notes @daisies-and-dandelionpuffs @jjkwifestyle @viankiss

#bts #jimin #jungkook #namjoon #taehyung #yoongi #bts headcanons #jin #hoseok #bts fanfiction #bts historical au #yoongi x reader #yoongi fanfic #bts fantasy au #bangtan #fanfiction

[shadowofahope]

Love Revocation

Pairing: ImperialGuard!JungHoseok x Princess!Reader

Premise: Only your brothers would be willing to step in and try to change your future. But history isn't easy to overcome, even if it is all but forgotten.

Word count: 3.5K

Author's note: I've been watching a lot of historical k-dramas and c-dramas lately, and I can say it's an addiction at this point! If you have any favourites feel free to share! I'd love to watch your recommendations as well as talk about any mutual ones we love!

masterlist

One foot infront of the other, the crisp air of the afternoon breeze through your robes and hair, the light chatter of people in the market; it all gave you a bittersweet taste of Deja vu. Times like these felt right, but you had the feeling that nothing looked as it should. It could be the small taste of freedom mixed with the claustrophobic fear being chained somewhere. However, where the other end of the chain was you didn’t know. Or you did once, but it was lost with the rest of your memories from all those years ago. 

You stopped trying to remember after the first two season changes, then you accepted your circumstances and adjusted yourself to where you were. 

Arms full, you smile gracefully at the passing merchants and village people, the ones bowing at you when recognization transpired. You all but skip down the back path heading towards the palace again. 

You promised mother you’d finish her painting of the place father asked for her hand today. You had beeen working on it for her birthday, but you were too excited to wait. So it may have been promised 2 weeks earlier then her day.

However, a shroud voice catches your attention before you make it to the next corner. You stop in your tracks to listen. If living in the palace taught you anything it was ‘to always know the concerns of your people’, were fathers exact words. In otherwords you took it as a sign that it was ok, in most situations to eavesdrop… at least a little. 

“She is being forced to marry the oldest son of the emperor and empress. Her bloodline will muddy just as theirs already is.” A sinik male voice mocked. 

“What do you mean by that?” You heard your brothers fiance ask. She was a headstrong woman. Not only that but she was radiant. The type of woman your brother deserved. 

“Everyone knows the young lady is unfavoured by the gods. So if you bear a child with him your children will be inflicted with the same inability.” This time a female voice chimed in. Just as distasteful as the males.

“The princess is kind, witty, social, politically intelligent, well read, impactful, understanding and unworldly beautiful. Our children will be blessed to have her as their aunt.” Tayla lists, you smile to yourself. She didn’t have to defend your honour so seriosuly, but you silently thanked her none the less. 

“You have your doubts. There is no way you do not feel some worry about tarnishing your family name. Its reputation will be dragged through the land if your children fail to develope as she has. They will be cursed as she is.” 

Anyone talking about your family members however, you just couldn’t let it slide so easily.

“My brothers children will develop into the strongest blood line of these past 1000 years, we are in no need of your concern.” You step in, rounding the corner of the building. Your voice and demeanour remain calm, a smile on your lips as your mother had taught you when it came to political arguments. Remaing calm when the opposing side could not, as strategy she had learned in her youth.

What others said about you didn’t really bother you anymore. As a young child you always felt the sting of their harsh words. Like they were hoping you’d choke on them. But it had the opposite affect. It only drove you to try harder, to learn the ways of the palace. To push yourself past the limits that this life had given you. 

“My lady!” Many courteous greetings are followed by formal bows. “Wha-what are you doing here?”

“I was out for a walk through the village to get a few supplies.” Holding up the items in your hands, you sidle up to your future sister in law. Taking a step between her and the small circle of ill intended pupils.

“We didn’t mean anything by it. We were just worried she hadn’t thought it through. Or raised concerns” One of the young males spoke quickly. You stifle a scoff, but continue to maintain your composure.

“I’m sure you are.” You eye him carefully, if you weren’t mistaken he was one of the many candidates who wanted Tayla’s hand in marriage. “However as I am not my mother and fathers birth daughter, you’ll be happy to know my genes will die with me.” 

“You are not the child of the Emporer and Empress?” The small crowd gasps in unison. You could laugh at how comical their faces became. 

Even so, amongst the mumbling in front of you there is a faint call from behind you, you turn to her.

“Mother and Father saved me when I was young. Knowing I could not cultivate nor could remember where I had come from or how I ended up where they found me, they showed compassion and mercy upon taking me in and raising me with their children.” You explain to her alone. “I am blessed beyond measure. And your children will hold the greatest of titles. ”

--------

A few days had past since your unexpenctant, informal announcement of your lineage. A very important matter had taken your attention, so you had all but forgotten already. You hear frantic footsteps approach your room. You brace your mind for the inevitable impact that would be your brothers. Your hand doesn’t still as it continues to write on the parchment of your lessons from today. Your doors burst wide open, not bothering to look up at them.

“Are you really planning to take the tether serum?” Your youngest brother demands breathlessly. 

“You’re here earlier then I expected, I am almost surprised.” You smile to yourself. If you had placed money on them discovering your plans, it would not have been until at least a week had past.

“Don’t make light of this.” Your eldest brother scolds from the rear, coming up behind your younger brother, closing the doors to conceal your conversation.

“Why would you make such a thing?” Taehyung's bewilderment is something you had became accustomed to. He somehow always seemed shocked by your actions. Considering how long you had been in the family now, you would have thought he had understood you at least a little.

You let out a deep sigh, the air from your lungs feels cold as it leaves your body into the warm air. 

“I want to be of use to mother and father in the end. Is that so outrageous as to incur your unmistakable wrath?” You choose your words carefully, not wanting to sadden them with todays ongoings but at the same time you know Seokjin’s fiance has already informed him of the other day. 

“We both understand greatly how indebted you feel towards them, but to tether your lifeline to them as someone still young is unheard of.” Seokjin reasons, still standing in the middle of the room, you can see his robes out of your peripheral. Taehyung sits down in the place next to you, trying to get your attention.

“Elder brother is right. If they both pass then so shall you, your soul cannot be separated. You shall serve them into death and upon new life.” His tone turning sorrowful. 

This time you look up at him, then towards your elder. 

“My dear brothers, It’s no secret that no one would marry me before and now with my birth being admitted, I have somehow lost whatever leverage I may have had.”

“That’s not true.” You see the hurt in the youngers eyes, but what you've said is true. You all know it. You give him a sad smile, letting your hand drop the brush, and placing it over his on the table.

“I cannot cultivate. I have no sense of magic or any prowess. My soul has been deemed weak and now people know that I am not the Emperor and Empress' true daughter.” You direct your smile towards Seokjin. “I have been preparing myself for this outcome since we were young. Please, if you cannot understand me then at least accept that this is your sisters wish.”

--------

“The last time the two of you bowed this deeply to us was when you were young children and you and our son had broken a priceless family heirloom while you were training in the halls.” The Emperors longest friend muses from his seat. Him and his wife had known your parents since they were young, they were as close as family. Including their son, who happened to be the same age as you. So all four of you had grown up together.

“Uncle. Auntie. We are here to request an inordinate favour from you. One we know may be impossible for you to agree to, but we must ask this of you.” Seokjin’s whole body is tense. Everything he can do to save you from tethering yourself is hanging on this outcome. 

“What is it?” Your aunt is more curious then worried by their request. Seeing them kneel before them was a shock bigger then they had ever expected. 

Your brothers sit up straight.

“Our sister. As you know she is unable to cultivate. She has no skill in combat. Many have deemed her unworthy to bear our family name.” Seokjin’s voice comes out strong, but his hands are trembling slightly. “However, as you also know. Our sister is competent in the kitchen, and with chores of the home. She is patient and nurturing when she takes care of the palaces many children. She has beautiful skills in the way of art and embroidery. She is generous beyond measure and courteous to others. She deserves to have a future.”

“We both agree. She is a diamond amongst pebbles. But what brings this tone of concern?” Uncle is concerned.

“Our sister has decided to take the tether serum and serve our parents.” Taehyung explains. “We do not know if you have heard the word circling about our sister not being of our blood. But we are here to confirm it. Our parents took her in when I was newly born, she is all I’ve known to be an older sister.”

“We are aware of the talk. We were also there the day your parents found the young lady.” The Uncle assures. “You do not need to worry about our thoughts towards the princess.”

“I am curious to this favour. What do you wish to ask for?” Auntie pushes. 

“Our sister wishes to tether herself for she believes no one will marry her.” Seokjin explains. They bow again in unison, as if they had practiced their movements and speech before appearing. “We ask of you to please propose a marriage contract to the Emporer and Empress between our sister and your son.”

Taehyung cuts in quickly before they can be dismissed.“We know he is your only son, but we beg of you. She respects your son and you, uncle and auntie. There are many things she may be useful for.”

“Useful? She is enough as she is. We know that very well.” Uncle states, making eye contact with his wife. The look of understanding flashing between the two, unseen by the young princes.

“Just as we know our son. He has felt feelings of affection for the young lady for quite some time. You might not know this but she was the reason he decided he wanted to join the guard.” The older woman conceals her giggle behind her hand. “I had never seen such a rambunctious boy turn so serious.”

“He knew?” They both shoot up in surprise. Their friend had never mentioned having any knowledge of your sisters situation. But then again, they had never spoken of this either. 

“Yes. Our son was adamant that he would protect the princess. We could not sway his mind. Though we did not try to. We have never looked down on her because of her situation. She has become a well rounded beautiful woman, our son would be blessed to take her as his wife.” The Lord nods, 

“Does that mean you will agree?” They feel giddy. They could save you.

The older couple share a fond smile. 

“There is something our son has been drawn to since he was a young boy. We believe your sister is the key to his happiness.” 

--------

“Hoseok, what are you doing here?” You beam, controlling your feet to not skip your way over to him. A lady never skips…at least not in front of others.

“Princess” He greets you with a bow and warm smile as he always does. “I was summoned by the Emperor and Empress. Why have you come?” 

“I was requested by Uncle and Auntie to meet them here.” You explain. “What is going on? Do you think its about Mothers birthday feast tomorrow?” 

“I’m not sure, but we should not keep them waiting. Let us go in.” He opens the doors and waits for you to enter first.

You hurry in, smiles directed at your parents then your uncle and aunt. 

A large round table adorned with vast plates of food, both your fathers sat near the far end laughing and chatting away, raising a drink to eachother. Your mothers seated next to their husbands also tremendously cheerful. 

You share a quick glance before bowing. 

“Emperor. Empress.” He greets first.

“Uncle. Auntie.” You greet directly after. 

“Children! Come in! Have a seat.” You father cheers happily. Your aunt waves a hand over to you for you to sit next to her. 

You bound over to sit next to your aunt. Which just so happens to be next to Hoseok as well.

“We are celebrating this evening.” Your mother informs, her attention on him.

“What are we celebrating Empress?” Formality laced in his words. It made you smile, even if he was like another son to your parents he highly respected them. 

“Lord and Lady Jung, have come to us with a proposal contract and we have agreed.” The Emporer boisterously exclaims.

“I’m sorry, Father and Mother I fear I do not comprehend.” You express, eye brows coming to meet in a frown. 

You see a flash of something cross Hoseoks face, but you stay focused on your looking between your parents. 

Your Aunt grabs both your hands, placing them in the space between you and forcing you to face her.

“The Emporer and emperess have accepted our proposal for our son and you to be wed.” She cheers brightly, hands giving yours a light squeeze.

“I’m to marry-?” You look back at him. Scared to see panic or disgust or even rage on his dazzling features. But there isn’t any sign of darkening. Only red tinted ears give away any emotions he’s feeling. That in itself leaves you astonished adn shaken. 

Words of wedding ceremonies are abrupt in your ears. The pattern of the bedding for your marriage suite. 

“But, Uncle, auntie. I’m not worthy of marrying your son.” You say it like it is a definite fact, interrupting their excited remarks. 

“Nonsense!” Your father bellows, a bright smile never leaving his face, he places his arm around his long term friend, who shares an equally blinding smile. “You two shall be wed! It is a beautiful idea, one I wish we had thought of sooner.” 

The laughter from the elders erupts once again, leaving you shell shocked. Remaining quiet you can’t bring yourself to look at anyone, opting to stare at the oak table in front of you. How did these events happen? You had just made the choice to…

A sinking feeling hits you all at once. Your brothers. They were the only ones that knew of your plans, other then the physician you had asked the tether serum about. They would be the ones to try to stop you. 

You’d deal with them after this dinner. You’d confront them and talk to Hoseok about his rejecting the marriage proposal. 

You just had to sit nicely until then.

--------

“What did you do?!” You stormed into the study room the next day, you knew your brothers had hidden themselves away. They always resided in the same place to try to escape you when they had done something they knew you would be unhappy with. You had been followed by Hoseok on your way there when you mentioned you were confronting your brothers, upon meeting him that morning.

“Sister. This is a study room. Please refrain from raising your voice.” Your oldest mock scolding you, book in hand.

“Then answer me. I know it was the two of you that have provoked the marriage idea.” You were pulling back your seething temper, but it was becoming increasingly difficult. 

“Princess~” Hoseok calls calmly from behind you. You could feel him close behind you, not touching but close enough that you felt like you could breathe.

“What all of our parents decide to do we do not hold any influence over. You know as well as anyone.” Seokjin scoffs. The audacity he had to play ignorant at this moment was appalling. 

“We may have brought up the idea of a union.” Taehyung supplies from the far end of the room. 

“Why would you do this?” Exasperation seeps out of you. There was no point in hiding your displeasure or annoyance at these two. “You know I wish to be tethered.”

“Tethered?” Hoseok speaks again. “Who were you to be tethered to?”

“Mother and Father.” You state, angry eyes set on your brothers, but also not wishing to elaborate. This isn’t how you wanted him to find out. You were all childhood friends, you wanted to tell him yourself when he had time away from his duties in the guard.

“She believes no one shall love her because she is unable to cultivate. She believes she is not worth dotting on.” Your elder brother chimes in, closing his book and sauntering over to you. “But that’s not true. Is it Hoseok?“

“No. It’s not.” Your childhood friends voice is stern, you had never heard it like this before, at least not targeted at you. It sends a shiver down your spine. “Is this why you wanted me to talk my parents out of this marriage?”

“I wanted to be tethered to mother and father because I wish to serve them for eternity.” Your jaw tense. Your core feeling as it had turned into stone. 

“Look at me.” You have never heard his voice so cold and low, not even when he was at work. Something in you makes it impossible to deny him, so you do as he orders. You can see the fire behind his eyes, before your allow the flames to consume you you look towards the chilled marble ground. You hear muffled voices of your brother behind you but you can’t react. You feel warm fingers gently push your chin up ever so gently, forcing you to make eye contact. “Princess. Y/n. Is that really why?”

Your voice catches in your throat. A cough threatening to scratch its way out of you. “I am not like others. I cannot contribute to a high class home as I should. I’m…. broken.”

You had never felt so weak as you did in that moment, not since the days yo uhad been found. You could never lie to him. Not once. 

He studies your face, searching for something. “Is it the worst to be betrothed to me?”

“What?” His question catches you off guard. You blink at him in confusion. Of course, you knew he would be angry at your decision, or at the very least angry with you for not trusting in him to discuss it. 

“I can understand if you wish not to be wed to me because you do not think I’m adequate.” His voice soft like the look in his eyes. Soothing your anger towards your brothers in a instant, your only focus on him and the sad smile on his lips.

“That is ridiculous. I would not want it to be promised to any one else in this entire kingdom.” Why do you feel breathless? 

“Good.” His hand slips away from your skin. For a mere second, you miss the contact before realizing what you said. Your face burns with embarrassment, your eyes scrunching closed at how idiotic you sounded to yourself. Had you lost your mind? “Then I will discuss with our parents for the ceremony to be held as soon as possible.”

The shock brings you back out of your inner reprimanding. But before you can formulate words he’s bowing to your brothers and then you and he’s gone.

“W-what just happened?” Your mind struggles to catch up. 

Hearing your brothers snicker at you doesn’t’ help, you’re still frozen in place. Frozen staring at the now closed doors that Hoseok, your childhood friend, had left through. 

Seokjins full laugh fills the room. “Looks like you’ll be a little bride faster than I will be a groom.” 

masterlist

#bts imagines #bts fic #bts fanfic #bts fan fiction #bts taehyung #bts hoseok #bts jin #bts seokjin #bts drabble #historical au #bts writing #taehyung #seokjin #hoseok #jhope dance leader vibes #Imperial guard Hoseok #Prince Taehyung #Prince Seokjin #Could have more parts if anyones interested #Please let me know your fav series! #I'm very tired so please bear with me today

[hauntedkidpersona]

Once upon a time// Chapter-6

Pairing- Polybts x reader

Summary-Choosing a husband is not easy, but bring in the seven princes and your in a lot of trouble.

Warnings: Duality of humans, Mistress, Y/N is a badass, Detachment issues, Cold behaviour, Strangers to enemies, Nudity, sexual jokes, talks of orgasm (nothing we don't know)

Overview: Life isn't like fairytale. You knew it the moment you reached a ripe age of nineteen. Which meant, your now a women who is in a hurry to be wed and bring prosperity and fame to your Kingdom. For this, you have readily accepted the self-groom event which requires you to select your husband out of all the potential Kings and Princes alike. But what happens when you select, not one. Not two but seven grooms? Chaos.

Masterlist-

A/n- Taglist is open for now.

Tags- @singukieee @shadowyjellyfishfest

@inlovewithallmusic @lachimolala22019

"Princess, I am not changing my decision. That's final." The King berates you with a stern look.

You nod, not wishing to push your luck. Irene is out and the King refuses to change the punishment. Your trapped, with no way out. It seems peculiar to pester him, it's a losing battle anyways. The King is adamant, and you do not wish to stroke the flames of fury that swirl in the black abyss of his irises.

You sigh, shoulders drooping ever so lightly. "Your Majesty, then kindly change our rooms cause I can't sleep and be alive at the same time."

He looks up at you with an amused look, while you give him a serious look. Your not joking. You don't want to go to bed with a thought that it could be your last.

Chuckling at your choice of words, he speaks. "Since the day Jin's mother was executed, he has blamed me and have always run away from his duties. Not only him, but the other Princes also blame me for the death of their mother."

Shock. That's what you feel, didn't their mothers lived faraway for reasons unknown. Dread fills you, with an involuntary shiver that slithers across your arms like an icy serenade demanding the words to be fake.

Keeping your composure, you speak, holding your tongue from giving away your obvious suspicions. "Please elaborate, Your Majesty."

The King stands up, erupting a screech from chair pushed behind. His pose is regal, screaming power and wisdom from the greyish white hair that cascades down. Escaping the heavy crown that stands poised on his head.

"Their mothers were just vile creatures opting for power, even daring to execute the King so that they can share the power that comes with throne." His words pierce your mind, like a sword stabbing the body of flesh and bones. He turns to you, with a cold look.

"So I killed them all."

You close your eyes, as beads of tension swirls across the lines of your forehead. Frowning, you keep the questions at bay. Each Kingdom has its past, perhaps this one too has a dark one. A Palace being the centre of conspiracy- greed, lust, betrayal. It has all. Living in a lion's den and not expecting an attack is a delusional attempt on your side.

You take a step forward, "And Irene?" Pausing your words, you scrutinize his face for any reaction.

"Jin claims to love Irene cause she was there with him from the beginning but she is just a vile women. She manipulated him with her sweet words, urging him to become King and change the rules so that she can become the Queen. She hid her greed by reminding him of his responsibility. I am not the King of such a big Kingdom for no reason. With great power, comes greater responsibilities. It's not the stranger that you should fear, but the people close to you for they can cause far greater damage."

His words are making sense now. And as soon as you connect the dots, reality grips your heart like a snake slithering for its prey. Pawn, that's what you can deem your worth as of now. Yesterday the King could have carried out an full-fledged investigation, to look into the matter of Irene but no he had rather chosen to give out a punishment. Being eager to get rid of her in haste was a foul move.

This eagerness will cost you more than you bargained for.

"And—" The King stops, taking your full attention. "If Jin is hard to handle, then how will you handle Yoongi and the others."

You huff, subtle in your actions. Yoongi, that Prince is like ice who will freeze you the moment you near him. Who knows, what is he upto? Only time will tell that. Taking your leave, you walk out not before bowing down to the King who dismisses you with a smile, that held ulterior motives. The glint in his eyes tell you that your in for a great ride.

Anika is waiting outside with few guards who accompanied you, "So how did it go?"

Her expression was tight, lips pressed in a thin line.

You don't wait, walking ahead for walls too have ears. Your robes slither, anklets jiggling at each step. "A lot."

You give one word answers, careful of the guards that follow you. Their expression remain stoic, but who knows where their loyalty lies. In Palace, trust is expensive. You do not have any to waste on them.

Your steps come to a halt, as soon as your met with Jin towering your figure in fury. Taking your hand, he smiles sweetly. So fake, that you gagged. "You all can go, I need to talk to her personally."

Not waiting for anyone's reply, he drags you with him. You pretend to be calm, but inside your mad at him for forcing you like this. You hurry to match his footsteps, not wishing to fall and make a fool out of you. Your earrings drop, in chaotic madness as your chest rises and falls, across the weight of the heavy necklace of priceless gems.

He pulls you inside what you deem as his quarters; the door is closed harshly behind you with a loud thud. Looking back, your breath hitches at the close proximity. But Jin is quick to slam you against his chest with brute force.

A gasp, slips past your throat. Cursing the moment it took flight. "Be in your limits, Prince." You glower at him, tone dripping in warning.

At your defiance, he only pulls you close. Breath mingling with yours and here you almost go cross-eyed at how narrow is the gap of your lips which parts, taking huge gulps of air. Wriggling, you wince when he tightens the hold around your waist.

"Now tell me, who gave you the right to punish Irene?" He glares at you, his tone dropping a few octaves.

You roll your eyes, "You should ask this question to His Majesty, not me."

You wriggle relentlessly, but your hands are gripped by his hands. You grit your teeth, as he refuses to budge. "Then why did you attack her, I saw the bleeding Y/N. How dare you stoop so low hah?"

"Oh, then how dare you to fuck that whore in my quarters. It's you who is the problem, not me or anyone. It's you who were trying to push my buttons. Don't you remember how shamelessly you were staring at me, even when you had a lover. You were fucking red on face, and here I thought lovers don't get affected by anyone who isn't their sweetheart. Your a damn cheater, a fucking liar who is hiding in name of love." You fume, unleashing your wrath with your voice that increases in intensity.

How dare he chanel your worth on his lowly scale. A Prince running from responsibility has no right to question you. Stirring trouble, causing rift and hate for Irene was his doing. A Palace has its own laws, and if anyone crosses it. Your bound to punish them. Heck, even the guards were fired for lacking in their duties of guarding the royal library. Then who the fuck is Irene? Irene got his affection, but no title or regard of her worth from the King. In that way, she is just a servant and is to be treated like one. Affection alone doesn't acquire your safety within the palace walls.

Jin backs away, as you glare at him. Refusing to wince at the obvious pain your waist erupts in. Monster, a fucking monster. That's what he is. You hate him.

"So what, I am the Prince. And she wasn't stealing anything for such a harsh punishment. I want her back in Palace, right now." He orders you, as if your some meagre servant.

If he wasn't a Prince, you would have slapped him so hard that he would have a whole factory reset. You pity the King, for getting such a spoilt brat of a son as the future King of the Kingdom.

"Enough of your stupidity. First learn the laws of what powers and limits you have as a Prince. Your not above the King, your fucking below him. What Irene is facing, is because of your poor judgement. Somewhere you must have a hand in filling her mind with delusional security. And that was ripped apart by the King who showed you both their exact place. And now that your trapped, your forcing me to get her back. You fool, the King's decision is above us. I am no one to meddle in your stupid affairs."

To say Jin was mad at your words was an understatement. He knew you were right somewhere but his ego refuses to stroke the thought. He knows he is lacking, heck his father never fails to remind how far behind he is to take the throne. And now that you slap that directly on his face, it's more obvious.

You step forward, eyes blazing. "Have you even fought in war? Do you know what it's like to have lives in your hands. How will you handle this Kingdom with that fragile ego of yours. Unlike me, there will be thousands to point a finger at you. You can shut them but you can't stop them. Why is it that His Majesty only refers me as the future Queen but he never once called you or any brother of yours as future King. Cause you all lack somewhere. To run a Kingdom is not a child's play. Have any of you ever joined the King in the court, have you? You just got distributed with tasks and yet you all fail to prove your worth to His Majesty. Instead of hating me, why don't your pathetic self learn something in court. And if your a coward then give up this title of the Prince that you carry without any responsibility and leave with your tail tucked between your legs."

Your words like shards of glass pierce his body, drawing blood at multiple occasions. His heart is burning with the insults that you threw at him. Calling him a coward was the last straw. "Shut up. Just shut up, I will show you. Just wait and watch how I become a King and banish you from this Kingdom for once and for all."

You smile mockingly, "Don't dream okay, reality is harsh and unfortunately you are a weak Prince."

Throwing him a last look, you move out.

From that day, something changed.

The Seven Princes who hardly ever graced the court with their presence were dragged their by Jin. Days passed on in peace, as Jin got busy in his royal duties. King's advisors and court members were shocked by the drastic change of the elder Prince. He no longer skipped a day of the court.

The current affairs of the Kingdom was handled by him, he even went all the way to investigate and learn from the trusted advisor of his father.

To say the King was happy would be an understatement.

And now you had some peace from the quarrel, though Jin slept in your quarters at night. You two had no interaction whatsoever. By the time your up, he is gone. He had become a lot busy and so your back to enjoying your lonely time.

Taehyung was taking a stroll across the stable. Looking over the royal horses. He smiled as he pats his horse, a special breed. Hard to tame but he grew a liking. Like the dark night, Raven's fur are his pride and as his Master he have given strict instructions for his care.

Just then he hears commotion, and there he is met with a heavenly sight. It's you. His wife that he had little to no connection with coming along with her maids and guards. You haven't seen him yet, and so he is content in observing.

Your complexion is thundering upon the barren land of his heart. As if expecting a heavy downpour. Your decked up in jewels, none being deprived of enhancing your beauty to that of a dazzling moon. He watches as you laugh, climbing on one of the horse with ease.

"Princess, careful." One of your maid chides you.

Deciding to join, he announces his presence with a clap of amusement.

"My lady, it's good to see you here."

To say you were shocked to see him there would be an understatement.

Hiding your frown, you bow at him.

"My Prince, I just came for horse riding." You smile, hoping to cut short the conversation and go on your merry way.

Your grip on the reins tighten, but it's not long before you feel him climbing up behind you. In shock, you move forward. But Taehyung pulls you right against his chest, the added warmth unwelcomed on your part. You bite your lip, scowling at the turn of events. But in front of the maids, you stay silent.

Taehyung enjoys your act of defiance, his fiesty wife is surely mad now. Why should Jin have all the fun? Your his as much as Jin's. Inching closer, he tilts his head. Ever so lightly brushing your neck, he inhales the sweet scent that permeates his being. He feels you shudder, the action not going unattended by him.

He smirks, "Let's go Princess, I will join you."

Whispering sweetly against your ear, he watches you glare at him in burning fury. Chuckling he takes hold of your hands that grip the reins and pulls it.

The cool wind brushes past you, as the horse gallops through the palettes of green. Your stiff, refusing to relax against him. The nature bloomed, with trees casting a shadow that swirled along the rays of the light that create a painting of their own.

Reaching the lake, Taehyung stops near the cool shade of the tree. Getting down, he smiles at you while lending a hand.

Ignoring him, you get down. "I wonder why the Prince is suddenly interested in what I do?" You take a jab at him, not at all pleased at his act.

"I am always interested in what my wife does."

You roll your eyes. Not believing anything. Blessed with beauty, he was a sight to behold but looks can be deceiving. Wary of his motive, you keep your guard. Just in case. "Drop the act, it's of no use."

Taehyung grins, "So cold. Loosen up, My Queen."

You scowl at his display of endearment, refusing to react. You move away. But Taehyung is quick to chase you and match your steps equally. You ignore him, yet again. It's futile to lead you astray with some sweet words. Your heart is guarded, forget about moving. It won't even faze at the sight of a naked man like Jin. Your a person who connects emotionally and your emotions are forever closed for the Princes who are nothing but brats.

"Just yesterday you all hated me. And today suddenly, your showing fake affection. Why, didn't you get any other way to defeat me?" Your words are sharp and calculated, not an ounce of trust exuding at the Prince that walks across you.

Taehyung smiles, "It's nothing like that, why don't you give me a chance Princess? Join me for a tea"

"You?"

"Yes, the one and only Prince Taehyung."

"Princess, can you please send this to Prince Yoongi's quarters? I have to urgently go and give an important message to the King." The way the advisor speaks, you know you can't refuse.

You were ready to refuse, but then you get reminded of how you have to fucking bond. And so you smile, nodding at him. "As long as you don't have an ulterior motive. I am in."

You were just heading for your duties, when your stopped by the Royal Advisor. It seems, the message is not to be known by anyone and interfering in it would be futile. But you have to meet him out of all the Princes. That rude ass guy. Still, not having an option you take the pile of books.

Bowing to you, he hurries to the opposite direction.

"Uh, that was quick." Anika laughs,

You shake your head, feet moving towards the Yoongi's quarters. Your steps are confident, even as the guards open the door, letting you inside the haven of Prince. Sensing your presence, his trusted assistant quickly greets you.

But your eyes are looking at a very sleepy man who is seated on the chair, doing anything but work. "Does his lover entertain him so much that now he has to sleep during work hours?"

Your words are soft spoken, not wishing to rile up the sleeping cat who might just claw you if you dig too deep. Keeping the books on the table, you look up at the assistant who is busy looking at you without a blink.

You raise an eyebrow.

"Look down, do you want to die?" It's Anika who scolds him, breaking his dazed look.

He shakes his head, "I just was surprised, how someone can be this beautiful. Pardon my rudeness, Princess. I have heard a lot about you and now seeing you in front, I was shocked. Sorry,"

You nod, dismissing him. It's not your first time hearing it and neither it will be your last. You look around, taking a look at the cozy workplace. Decked up in gold and red, it screamed royalty and luxury. A seperate shelf was kept at the corner, wherein the books must contain the talks of war, politics, geography and so on.

Moving away, you look through the window. Getting a perfect view of the Garden from afar. Not that your jealous of your quarters, it's just that there would be no harm if the King gave you an extra quarter which had a perfect view. Anyways that cat won't mind, or will he?

Turning around, you almost shriek at the man who looks unbothered. Your heart thuds against your ribcage, even as you sense the absence of that assistant and Anika who were nowhere to be seen. "Are you done inspecting, Princess?"

You bite your lip, scowling to hide the obvious blush of embarassment rushing to your cheeks. "And are you done working hubby?" You mock back. Purposely adding the last word, just to irk him.

Yoongi gives you a cold look. "The door is there," he points at the exit.

As if you don't know.

"Where, I can't see it?" You look around, searching for that legendary exit.

"Don't joke with me okay, I have work to do. Get out."

His words are final. Not that your dying to be here. You tch at him, why so cold? But then, questioning others for their coldness isn't justified if your rude too. You shrug, not that it matters anyways.

"Now now Yoongi, is this the way you talk to the Princess."

#bts smut #poly bts #seokjin x you #slight yandere #taehyung x oc #bts #namjoon x you #hoseok x you #yoongi x you #taehyung x reader #jimin x you #jungkook x reader #historical #fiction #fanfiction #smut

[liwaywaydreamer]

My Savior (Ch. 1)

(Time travel au, Royalty au, BTS x Reader)

Synopsis: As a hopeless med student that has been accustomed to the roller coaster of mishaps in life, you were sure nothing could get worse than the current situation you’re in. Unfortunately, that thought didn’t include being transported back in the 1400s, nor did it include you being an apparent reincarnation of the person you hated most. Now, can this get any worst?

Pairing: BTS x reader

Warnings: Inaccurate history, angst, bystander effect, verbal abuse (reader received some insults and humiliated), harmful thoughts, implied politics (in connection only to the story, there are no real politician mentioned here), corruption in politics, unreliable narrator (if I forgot something, feel free to comment or send an ask?)

A/n: university life is shit and I was eyeing for this to be at 5k words but if I stuck to that, I wouldn’t finish this. If you like it, please reblog. Reblogs are worth more than likes here right?

Masterlist

Chapter 1: Like fate, like destiny

You're fucked.

Two words you continuously repeat in your head as you struggle to gather the mess of thesis papers you've left messily across your table the night before. Glancing at your alarm clock not surprisingly on the floor blaring 10:30 at you, sporting a dent not so hidden even if you're three feet away, (a surprising quality for such a cheap thing).

Your class starts at 8.

You tried your best to get to your university as quickly as you can, wishing time would stop a little, or even just go back, afraid of what is about to come. Despite your efforts not to get annoyed (and failing miserably) with the bodies you bumped into on the way and the occasional yelling here and there — from the moment you almost forgot to pay the bus fare to when you're facing your professor right now in front of the faculty lounge, the same professor which you needed to pass your research to— coffee splashed onto his shirt, a cup on the floor, and you on the receiving end of his anger.

He took off his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose, a gesture that you might have found endearing if he had been more physically appealing. You waited with bated breath, so used to his antics. Although some might see this as an attempt for him to control his anger, you however can see past his huge ego and idiotic narcissism, he was only doing this to attract more traction, the audience for your humiliation.

His prolonged sigh was your calm before the storm.

"You can't do anything right, do you?" he sneered as if trying to prove a point to the spectators, relishing in every second of your embarrassment. 

If being a disappointment was a job, you'll be the CEO in no time.

"Sir, I'm really sorry, I didn't mean—"

"SHUT UP!" he screamed as he loosens his necktie. You can't do anything but wait and hope that whatever he does next would suffice for how much you've messed up time and time again.

"You, what can you do right?" With each word, he poked and prodded you, pushing you closer and closer to the deep end. You whimpered, trying to not lose control but failing miserably as there was nothing that you could do to stop it, and whether you were just failing by your standards or the fact that he does not care, he continued his barrage of insults, never letting up despite your attempts to apologize.

"How long do I need to put up with you?" he slurred as he now prods your shoulder, harder and harder with each word.

"Sir, I'm sor— "

"HUH?!" a smack and you were on the ground. All the people in the vicinity just stood there, watching, unwilling to help— being a mindless watcher to the abuse, the true definition of a bystander effect.

Why is it in every discipline, violence needs to be included? Is that how we're programmed to learn? Through nothing but violence? You hoped for someone to help you even if you already knew that no one would. Yet, you hoped still.

If this was your first day in school, you would've fought back. You would've stood up for your pride. That a spilled coffee is not enough to humiliate you like this and that not every misfortune is because of you. But you know better; this isn't your first day, nor is it your second. You know how the system works and who it favors, and unfortunately, it doesn't favor you.

"...waste of space. If it weren't for your parents..." You didn't hear the other words he spoke as he walked away not forgetting to throw the papers he held— papers that were your best effort at reaching your dreams, thrown away with your hopes of being better than what they said.

Needless to say, you were suspended due to behavior misconduct; words that you no longer know the meaning of anymore. You're back to your cage-like rented dorm, whilst your head is everywhere but.

What a cruel joke, you thought. The first time you wanted something so badly for yourself and had dedicated your whole life to had to happen with the world's hatred for you was at its peak. Or had it ever really stopped?

You gripped the handle of your balisong, tracing the delicate and intricate designs you engraved on it as waves of atrocious thoughts crashed into your mind. How morbid, you mused. The same thing that you want to hurt yourself with right now is the same thing that made you feel grounded. You're aware that these thoughts are anything but good, but you're also aware of the fact that no one is going to help you.

Simply because no one wants to.

A medical career was not your parents' choice nor was it ever in their choice, but it was in yours.

You're not unconscious of the fact that a career in the medical field is a lot to take financially, and to be the only one in the medical field in a family of lawyers? You alone destroyed the dreams put on you by your mother who vicariously lived through you, but you wanted it.

And you thought that was enough.

But now, as you sit back on the barren floor of your sparsely furnished room that you once hoped would've at least shown evidence of the life of someone healthy in their early twenties, you had nothing other than your worn-out bed on the corner and a circular dinner table doubling as your makeshift desk, cut off from all financial stability that your parents could've provided you if you only heed to their wishes. Now, you think about whether your current situation is worth the sense of independence you fought so hard for.

Was it a foolish decision to stand your ground? To try to live your life on your own terms? Because you know for a fact that it doesn't matter if you followed every whim of your parents as they will always find something wrong and below their standards with you. With every breath, every change of clothes, every food that you intake, even your education— you were taught that everything that they have given you was a debt you owed them, and because of that they are within their rights to choose for you.

After all, parents only want the best for their children, don't they?

You are by no means the most intelligent person on the campus, nor were you trying to be. But you're committed to what you chose, and you hoped that that commitment can be seen through your effort and hard work. And yet, despite your commitment, those words, those words still echoed in your mind— you can't seem to un-hear those words.

“If it weren't for your parents.”

You wanted to choose a life separate from them, to forge a path of your own. But no matter how much it pains you to admit, you know now, clearer than ever, that it does not matter how far you run, you'd always be hidden beneath their shadows.

To only be recognized as the black sheep of your family.

Instead of indulging your self-pity and sulking alone in your room with a blade on sight much longer than you had intended to, you opt to browse the internet for some fun things to do; a piece of advice you got from the internet since seeing a psychiatrist would be a luxury for you.

And whether it was your misfortune running out finally or yet another adventure of mishaps waiting to unfold an announcement caught your attention:

"Join us for a free tour down the historical lane to commemorate the House of Kim, with events set to reenact the life our ancestors had lived!"

There were more words to the article but as you read on, your eyes fell on the tour's schedule.

"Gyeongbokgung tour is going to take place at 1:30 pm," you murmured to yourself.

It was an opportunity you couldn't miss, a rare sight to see. Despite the mental baggage weighing you down, this was a chance to experience something new and forget about your troubles, even if just for a little while. Maybe this was the way of the gods trying to make up for all the shit storm your life is at right now, but whatever it was, you'll take it.

So, without hesitation, you got up, grabbed your purse, and with the little money you have left, you headed out. You knew you had to take on more shifts at the store or find other jobs to cover for your sudden trip, as your dream of becoming a doctor was fading quickly and surely anyway. But for now, all you cared about was the prospect of exploring a historical place that had opened its doors on a day it usually wouldn't.

Arguably, no one other than yourself knows what decisions made on a whim can do to anyone. Whether this is your intuition telling you to go back to your room to help you or just to spite you away from society, you didn't dwell long on the thought.

All you needed to know is that you're drowning quickly, and you would hold unto anything, even a pair of gilded chains to let you breathe again.

"Gyeongbokgung Palace, also known as Gyeongbok Palace, was the primary royal residence and the largest of the five grand palaces that still exist today in South Korea. Built-in 1395, this..."

As you don't have a lot of money to waste, you stuck to the free guides the palace provides although not very effective when you're standing in the back of 50 people. And looking at how detached and uninterested your tour guide is whilst speaking, without a doubt, you knew that this was just an additional job to her. Not really enough to complain about since the constant chattering of the people around you easily engulf her almost robotic voice anyways.

This trip already cost you more than you expected and standing still to nonsense chatter was not part of your nonexistent plan. So, with the palace map in hand, you left the group with ease.

"Gwanghwamun: the southern gate that became the main gate after some time. It is one of Seoul's iconic sights, having been restored after being largely destroyed by the war," you read while gazing up at the magnificent building in front of you, the swaying of windchimes singing their lullabies in the background. Your eyes carefully scanned every nook and cranny, not wanting to forget this beautiful sight. Although you can't be sure if the scenery is exactly as it looked when it was originally built, the idea of having remnants of the past soothes your soul.

You've always been intrigued about the things that have already happened, or perhaps that's an understatement as your mind always seems to be occupied with thoughts about what they could have done differently and the effects of it on the modern world. Whether it really is fascinating to you or just a form of escapism, you don't want to know. All you do know is that you're a product of the modern world, but something within you suggests that itself was a mistake.

Especially when the Kim dynasty has the best-looking aristocrats you had ever seen.

No, you weren't attracted to them, you tried to defend yourself from your inner turmoil as you gaze upon the paintings displayed. You just know how to appreciate beauty when you see one, even if it's just paintings on a wall. This was once again your Philip Hamilton but with much more injustice. At least with Philip, there were actual pictures of him to bestow the world with his beauty. And although you can commend the talents of the painters of the past considering they did not have the best art supplies during their time, you still cannot grasp the idea that these people existed. Not when they are reduced to the mere splat of colors made to resemble a person.

You couldn't clearly see the features of each man in the paintings, but it's not really anyone's fault for it's just the evidence of time. Nevertheless, your admiration for them never lessened, because it's more than their artificial perfection that deserved your admiration and respect. They were also the ones who did more than any other aristocrats ever did for their people. They were the true embodiment of a regime existing not for the regime itself, perfectly aware of who gave them power. Although yes, it wasn't a democracy, but even democracy has its problems.

All you can say is they did their best to lead their people. At least for some time, as they were the foundation that made South Korea what it is now. Sure, their reign could've ended better, still, they were an integral part of history.

And history should never be forgotten.

Although it disheartens you that their achievements and sacrifices are slowly being forgotten; the wars they've won are now taken for granted, you understand that life goes on and people have their own lives to live. It's another reminder that time doesn't stop for anyone.

As the wind chimes fluttering in the breeze, abruptly ceasing your thoughts. Somehow, you felt a sense of belongingness, despite their faintness that could easily be muffled by the chirping of birds. Nonetheless, it was truly fitting for the place as it only elevated the experience the palace could only give.

You couldn't quite understand why wind chimes would be placed in Geunjeongjeon, other than to elevate the experience, but since the cold breeze was constant ever since you stepped onto the palace grounds, you're certain that the people who are in charge knew exactly what they're doing.

You continued observing the place, trying to imagine what events had happened on the concrete that was paved hundreds of years ago. Was it quiet? Were the roads bustling with people constantly? Or were there just only a handful of people seen from time to time walking along?

You were so deep into your imagination that for a few seconds, you felt as though you were transported back in time. You were seeing groups of three to four consorts walking and talking to each other, palace women walking briskly with a basket on their sides, and a few eunuchs scolding some servants who probably messed something up. And then suddenly, everything came to halt when a booming voice from behind you commanded, "Make way for the Prince!"

As you turned to face the source of the voice, you found yourself making eye contact with a man whose attire you could easily recognize from the K-dramas you'd watched, and even with the distance between you, you can't help but feel he was looking straight at you.

"Excuse me, is this yours?" A little girl's voice interrupted your daydream, her voice so cute as she lightly tugs your shirt, holding out your phone.

"Oh, thank you so much!" you exclaimed, realizing that you were in your head so much that you didn't feel your phone fall off your pocket. You would have another problem added to your bulk of problems if it weren't for the girl.

"No problem, have a good day!" she gleamed brightly and ran off. The kid was so energetic you couldn't even give her something back. 

As you opened your map once again, you accidentally dropped your phone and with it, you see a pocket watch on the ground. And it didn't take you to think twice to know to whom it belongs. Hurriedly, you followed the kid toward the path of the Hyangwonjeong pavilion.

"Where did she go?" you murmured, you were sure that you had seen her walking towards the pavilion, but as you see the bare grounds of the place, you realized you had lost track of her. The pavilion was nearly empty except for a few tourists, and you felt torn between searching for the girl to return the watch or continuing to explore the palace grounds.

As you were going to turn around and try to find the girl, you stopped in your tracks. After all, did you really spend your money to travel here just to end up focusing on returning a girl's missing watch when the palace was only open for a limited time? It would be a waste of time going here if you didn't enjoy your time, right? As you stood there contemplating your decision, the constant breeze grew stronger, making the wind chimes nearby flutter and although messy, they still somehow created the most beautiful melodies. The sound disrupted your thoughts, but somehow provided an answer to your dilemma. You decided to keep the watch and continue exploring the palace. After all, you didn't want to waste your money and time searching for someone who would likely be enjoying the sights with her guardians. You could always return the watch to her later.

As you stroll on the bridge named Chwihyanggyo, your fingers lightly tapping the railings, you thought of one thing that could make this experience a million percent better.

"Why are hanbok so fucking expensive?" you huffed, frustrated at yourself for not being able to afford one. But since you can't do anything about it, you continued walking with a pout toward the buildings that housed the aristocrats of the past. The melodies of the windchimes grow louder as you come closer. And that's when it hits you.

How do you keep hearing them considering you haven't seen one since your first step on the palace? If this was a scene in a drama, you would've thought that the windchimes were following you, serving as the background music for the main protagonist's introduction. But this was no drama nor were you a main protagonist material, and you couldn't help but feel curious about it.

As you stepped inside the pavilion, you felt like you were slowly reaching your dream of going back in time as you gaze at the antique furniture that filled the place. Your fingers trailed the rough edges of the desk, which had subtle engravings that seemed unreadable at first glance: 다 괜찮을거야.

Everything will be alright.

The phrase repeated in your head as you wondered what it meant. Was it a message from the past or just a meaningless inscription? You felt a sense of longing to uncover the mystery behind it, and you wouldn't have noticed it if you hadn't felt it, but the pavilion was closing soon, and you had to leave to look around more. 

As you were about to exit, the chimes called out to you again, tempting you to get closer and follow their sweet melody— almost as if they could sense the curiosity in your mind. You followed the sound until you stumbled upon a backroom, which looked like a storage room that had been converted into a makeshift bedroom for the caretaker. You stepped across the redline, both figuratively and literally, unable to resist the urge to explore further.

From the balcony, you caught a glimpse of the wind chimes dangling from a branch over the lake. The constant ringing didn't falter from luring you in. You scanned the area for anyone who could catch you and when you saw no one, you leaped over the balcony and headed toward the chimes. There was something about the chimes that piqued your interest, but whether it was the chimes themselves or the confusion of how you keep hearing them from afar, you weren't sure, and nor were you going to find your answer.

Because as the popular idiom goes, curiosity killed the cat, and with a slip up your feet into the lake you go.

♛♛♛♛♛♛♛

The row of daisies sat atop the windowsill, bathed in the golden light of daybreak. The silent whims of the wind filled the space, stirring the dried leaves on the small makeshift table below, made with old planks with jagged edges, where jars of medicines sat alongside a worn notebook filled with hastily scribbled notes. There was the usual sound of footsteps and the creaking of floorboards. The palace's physicians and attendants began to trickle in, their visits indicated by the soft chimes of wind chimes hanging above the door.

And the wind blew one more time. As if it's intentionally done to send a message as the image of blurred sketches comes through.

All was well.

Until the peaceful scene was shattered by the thunderous galloping of horses that had shaken the rooms. Until there was the clash of metal on metal that filled the air as swords were unsheathed. And until there were faces with features you couldn't make up.

Muffling, shuffling, screaming, shouting.

It was only chaos and bloodshed, and as it worsened, the ringing in your ears grew louder and louder, drowning out all other sounds and leaving you with nothing but a sense of overwhelming disorientation.

Then, just as suddenly, it all heeds to a stop. The ringing faded away, and nothing could be heard other than the flipping of the pages, the smooth gliding of a pen, and the wind chimes outside the window that began to tinkle once again. You looked out the window and saw a tranquil scene: rows of green grass and golden hay, and the majestic curve of a mountain in the distance. There were no whims nor whispers of the wind.

All was quiet and still.

As if everything was at its stalemate; the equilibrium.

And then, as if a stick had been broken, it happened.

The scene began to shift and blur, colors and shapes warping and twisting like a nightmare. The ground trembled beneath your feet; the tremors so strong that you could've sworn you felt it all as images flickered before your eyes. You saw a crowd of men gathered around someone lying on the cold hard floor with colors ranging from black to white, their sorrows crystal-clear even with the constant ringing. Then you saw a field of yellow flowers, a scenery of green and gray with men running toward something in the distance, their faces twisted in anguish, kneeling and begging in the middle of a field.

The images kept shifting and switching back and forth. Everything was in chaos as if fate itself was unsure of what was to come. But through it all, you struggled to hold onto each fleeting image, desperate to make sense of the chaos that surrounded you. And then, with a sudden jolt, you were pulled back into reality, coughing up water as you gasped for air. As you opened your eyes, the last remnants of the dream slipped away, and you were left with only the memory of the intense emotions it had stirred within you.

Dazed, and confused. You looked up, meeting the gaze of the man who had pulled you from the water, his eyes filled with concern and relief.

You were certain you hadn't met him before, but you could've sworn that those almond-shaped eyes were something you could never forget, etched into your memory with an inexplicable familiarity.

To be continued...

Thanks for reading!

#My Savior #bts poly #poly!bts #bts poly au #bts x reader #bts ff #bts fic #bts fanfic #bts au #historical au bts #jungkook ff #taehyung x reader #taehyung ff #jimin x reader #jimin ff #namjoon x reader #namjoon ff #kim namjoon x reader #hoseok x reader #jung hoseok x reader #jung hoseok x you #jeon jungkook x reader #kim taehyung x reader #hoseok ff #jung hoseok fic #yoongi x reader #min yoongi x reader #min yoongi x y/n #min yoongi ff #yoongi fic

[nucleo-bang-tan]

The Uisa's Daughter | Chapter 1: Her First Love

Pairing/s: Kim Taehyung X Reader (Future Jeon Jungkook X Reader and Slight Min Yoongi X Reader)

Genre: Medieval Korea AU, Mystery, Strangers to Lovers, Angst, Smut

Rating/s: 18+ Mature Themes

Word Count: 7K

Warning/s (Don't read this if you want some suspense): Age gap (6 years, reader is younger), segregation based on caste, physical and emotional abuse, some pedophilia (an older man harasses reader since she was young), love at first sight kinda?, both of them are too horny, unprotected sex, oral sex (f receiving), loss of virginity, loss of innocence, some manipulation, they both say 'I love you' too soon.

Summary: In the 1700s, the Jeon Dynasty spread all across the Korean peninsula.  Happiness quadrupled with the founder Emperor's presence, or so it seemed. Secrets scattered over the palace in the capital city, Hanseong were known to none except a few.

Chapter Summary: It feels like you have met your match; for life even. But your father can never stand seeing you happy.

A/n: Hey there, don't be a silent reader, do comment under my post and spread some love.

Masterlist

Prologue Teaser

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Father always said, "Great power comes when you attain control over your desires and cravings."

He used to say that to stop your cravings over sweets. His lesser knowledge didn't tell him, you were not of the type to gain such control. You could never gain this....this great power how much ever you wanted to.

Your reasoning was that you were simply curious but in actuality it was the deprevation that halted you. Deprived of sensation, deprived of freedom, deprived of being included, deprived of living, deprived of loving...

No one, in that city full of aristocratic, snob-heads found what some may describe as the utmost form of desire and craving.

Love; love is still hidden from the rich and noble, from the uptight and small-minded

You've always wanted to feel this so-called feeling of love. Was it just a myth made by someone with an oppressed mind like yours? Hopefully not. You didn't know what love was but it certainly wasn't what your father gave you, not what he gave your mother either.

"You must be the uisa's daughter." A slightly aged, wrinkly woman opened the sliding door to the tremulous, raw house you had just knocked upon. "Come on in, girl. My husband has been sick for the past 5 days."

Your father had work with the King so he sent your 19-year-old self on a teeth-chattering cold night to attend to one of his patients. He may not have been a good father but he was one of the greatest doctors to ever walk the streets of Hanseong.

Winds flurried across the empty farmlands in the surrounding making you rush inside the compact yet warm house.

Sacks full of what seemed like potatoes welcomed you by the doorstep followed by sacks of other vegetables. The stove was occupied by a pot of stew. The sick man and his family sold vegetables at the local market.

You realized that your father didn't want to attend to this patient because he was a Kim of the lowest caste, Cheonmin.

Your trail of sight landed upon a person, supposedly Mr. Kim, wrapped up in torn sheets. "Please take a look at him." His poor wife asked.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

"He seems to have caught cholera. It's nothing to worry about, he'll be fine in no time." You gave out your diagnose along with a few medicines from your bundle.

Mrs. Kim seemed to be panicking, "Oh dear, it seems I can't find my money." She smiled nervously. "Would it b-"

"Mother, I heard the doctor arrived." The door hastily slid open revealing a disheveled man.

It was him, the man who was going to change your life for good. The man whom you didn't know would be the reason for both of your ruination. He was nothing you'd seen before.

His forehead shiny with sweat, long hair, all messed up, probably because of him rushing over, yet he looked like the most beautiful man you had ever seen. Molded to perfection, his face was something you get framed.

His eyes were full of concern and disturbance. His lips were slightly parted and he stood there silently and your eyes met.

You could feel something between you two, as if you were two magnets attracting each other. You couldn't help but stare at him. He was so handsome that it took your breath away. You had to resist an urge to get up and reach out to him then and there, touch him and feel his skin under your fingertips.

"Taehyung, yes! Where were you?! Dear, did you take my money kept near the cupboard?" Mrs. Kim was infuriated at the man named Taehyung. "Please give the uisa 2 silver coins, I'll have a talk with you later." She scurried to him while you still stared at each other, his eyes boring holes into yours and face being almost excited to see you.

"I see, and what might be your name?" He asked you.

"Y/n." You replied, "As for the money, I don't mind providing free treatment. I basically did nothing-"

"I insist; that's all we can give you." The man standing at the doorstep walked over to where you were sitting on the ground.

"Oh, it's fine." You smiled despite the growing tension between the both of you.

Taehyung, the obscure man in front of me smiled and sat down to bow. "I promise I'll keep your favor in mind and help you." His formal words seemed unnecessary between the two of you.

"Thank you... Taehyung." He could easily say his ears were blessed.

He dropped you home that night. Awkward was the least proper word to describe you two. You couldn't help but talk naturally and freely to him. You both talked about how beautiful the night was before you arrived at your destination and you asked him to leave you a few houses before your own so as to not raise any suspicions from your family.

His moonlighten face looked mesmerizing as he looked down at you and smiled. "It was an honor meeting you, Kim Y/n." He bowed.

"Same here, Kim Taehyung." You took a step closer to him. "I hope to see you again." You wrapped your arms around his neck tightly for a quick second and let go. The urge to touch him had been running through you this entire night. Though you wanted more, this was more than enough for now. Luckily there wasn't a single soul around at this time of the night.

He stood speechless for some seconds, looking straight into your eyes, making you blush. It's not like a woman hadn't hugged him before, it was different with you for some reason.

You looked off into a different direction, "I-I know we have met just an hour ago. But I can't-" You were cut off by him encasing your waist with one of his arms. The other one held you gently by your chin.

"I know, this may be going too fast, but I fairly do not care." Saying this, his lips ghosted over yours, waiting for your permission. Not hesitant at all, you gladly accepted and closed the minute gap between your lips.

It was merely a few seconds before you two pulled away simultaneously.

"Thank you..." You whispered for some reason. It wasn't Taehyung's first time, but it was clearly the weirdest and the most memorable one.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

"Isn't that lovely? The vermins owe us a favor." He laughed as you trembled.

"Father, t-they were necessitous. I couldn't possibly ask them for mon-"

"And how would I pay for your expensive clothings, dear? For your food? For our servants?" He scoffed.

"Father..."

"No excuses!" He shouted making you flinch "You need a good whipping."

"I'm so sorry, father. It's just two silver coins." Your trembling knew no bound as you tried to back away from his resting place. You used your hands to drag yourself backwards away from your seat as he stood up with a mud tea cup in his hands.

A fairly loud crash was heard besides you and drops of hot liquid splattered across the floor as well as on you. It was his cup that he threw at you with anger.

"Just two silver coins? I see." His words held no anger, they were just words, heavy words. Words scaring you more than the cold, chilly night because you knew he could hurt you anytime.

"Father I promise, I'll do anything. Please, father." You joined your hands.

"Look at you, so desperate... I'll let you off with a warning this time. You're lucky today, no whipping for you." He spoke as if he didn't nearly kill you.

You thanked your stars, or whatever guardian angel you had for he was in a good mood.

"If you dare to disobey my rules again."

"I know..." You whispered loud enough for him to hear. Ofcourse you knew, this was not the first time.

He smiled like a saint and spread out his arms, "Now give your father a hug, honey. I love you."

Slowly and being disgusted in the sorry excuse of what's supposed to be a man, you hugged him. He was still your father. "I love you too."

He slimy hands gradually went to your head to pat you as you tried to stop your tears from falling. "You are to come with me tomorrow to King Jeon." You nodded.

You were usuals to the King's courtroom even when you were a kid. Your father was his closest advisor. However you never felt comfortable when the King wanted to meet you outside of public's eye.

Unnecessary touches, and even more unnecessary things he made you do. He insisted he loved your cooking, your treatments and meeting you in general. You were honoured indeed but felt repelled since it was a 50 year old man you were talking about.

What was this life you were living?

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

"And about Y/n..." You were snapped back to reality by the mention of your name. You were deep in your own thoughts, skimming your eyes over each title of the books held by the shelves. The shelves along with their inked treasures adored the quiet room. Quiet with the only exception being the voices of King Jeon and your father.

You thought about the poor farmer's son. Would he like to read, or rather, would he know how to read the Chinese scriptures? You had no idea why he clouded your mind like so, but you certainly weren't against it.

You had never had a love interest, you never found one brave enough to even talk to you. Giving up on love, you had always assumed you'd have an arranged marriage until the man you had kissed a few days ago came into your life.

"What about her?" Your pretentious father asked.

Both of you along with King Jeon were sitting in the castle's study talking about something that you didn't even bother sparing your attention to.

You preferred being in your own thoughts rather than listening to the elders' talks about the world. They surely knew more than you, and it wasn't bothersome.

"I expect a gift from you Y/n-ssi" King Jeon stated clearly.

"A g-gift? I don't understand."

Both of the older men laughed at your naivety and King Jeon placed a hand around your shoulder which distinctly made you uncomfortable.

"You weren't listening, were you?" He asked. "What were you thinking about girl?"

You thought of the only thing that interested you here, "The books here, in the study. I've never even heard about them." Books especially related to medicine interested you. You played the part of a cliché doctor in training.

"Jeon's birthday gift, dear."

"I expect a really special dish from you in a few months." He smirked, "Cook for me."

You had no idea what the smirk signified, but it clearly didn't mean good luck to you. You smiled nervously which the King found extremely endearing, extremely enchanting. Oh, how he wished he could kill your measly father and make you his personal concubine, maybe even his Queen.

The King's first wife died around 4 years ago and ever since then, the King couldn't have been happier. He could sleep with all the women he wanted without being pointed fingers at. The kingdom's people, who thought richly of the King, supposed he was drowning himself in other women to ease the pain of his loss.

What no one, except his Chief advisor, Eunuch Kang, didn't know was his eyes were set on a much bigger and harder-to-catch fish. The metaphoric fish being you. One fine day, before the time of his Queen's death, you along with your father had come to visit him. Seeing how well you had matured through the years, he couldn't keep his eyes or hands off of you. Making you sit on his lap was just an excuse to feel you better.

People in his courtroom saw and objected after you went back home. But those who did, found their heads laying on the floor. They committed treason, hence they died; was what he told their families.

Your father however never dared to speak up. He wanted to be in people's good books more than he cared for you. This helped you more than you could think. He had a good reputation and in return, the King could not kill him without a proper reason.

Ever since that day the King has secretly tried to find reasons to execute him. Eunuch Kang who was in charge of this failed to find any such reason for more than 5 straight years.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

"Ms Y/n!" Your cook called out to you. You were headed outside the mansion lands to a place only you knew about.

"Yes, Mr. Jung?" You smiled. You knew such formalities were only for others' eyes.

Jung Hoseok, a young yet talented cook, had been with you since you were born. He worked meticulously from his childhood.

Being around a decade older than you, he was given the responsibility to look after you as well as head the staff of Kim household. He was appointed by your father's friend, the King.

"Are you headed out?" He asked and you nodded cheekily.

"I'm going to that placeee."

He showed clear distaste towards your act of cuteness even though he possibly found it adorable. "Find yourself some use. Go and bring some vegetables for the kitchen. You are to cook for the king remember?"

"But I don't want to..." You pouted, "The King should have better cooks than me, I am no one compared to them."

"It's what the King decides, not you. Now go."

"Hoseok-ssi."

"What is it?"

"I don't like the King." His face contorted into a disappointed look. He looked around to make sure no one heard you and was glad no one did.

"Y/n, you are a grown woman, stop jesting around."

"I'm serious, Hoseok-ssi. The King seems far too friendly for my liking."

"Aish- Shut up, Y/n. I will not hear of it. King Jeon is a very kind man and he has saved us from many external and internal forces. I will not hear anything against him." He said, "Neither will anyone else, so make sure you don't tell this to anyone."

You nodded, poking your tongue out, still not changing your thinking about him. He turned around to leave after shaking his head.

"Hobi is mean." You muttered.

"I heard that, kid!"

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

"I'm not sure if I have anything special." The vegetable seller smiled nervously. "You can take back some eggplants for the special meal but I'm not sure where you might find them."

This was the first time you heard about them. Being an educated person, it hurt your ego and now you were determined to find them.

"It's alright, sir. I'll search for them." You smiled and headed deeper into the market. The crowd grew denser and the shops became more heavily loaded. Asking every vendor about these 'eggplants'.

"Take a right after about 20 steps, dear." An old female vendor advised. And you followed.

The shop was revealed to be of the Cheonmin Kim's, the one you had treated a few days ago. How will they, out of all people have such an advanced (it's new to her) vegetable?

You gulped, it was the son, Taehyung chewing away at some dried sea weed, and his healthy father talking to another seller nearby. Their shop looked as if it hadn't been visited by anyone all morning, the vegetables still fresh in their places, the man fooling around on his seat.

You slowly walked over, Taehyung still being oblivious to your presence until you cleared your throat. Before seeing who it was and stumbling to stand up straight, he almost looked uninterested. He dropped a few tomatoes by such shuffling.

He held a bright smile on his face and bowed almost hitting his head on the table full of produce. You followed suit giggling at his display of clumsiness.

Still bright as ever and still as handsome as the first day you saw him, he greeted, "H-Hello, how are you holding up, Ms. Kim?" He shook his head and corrected himself, "Sorry, Y/n."

"I am doing just fine, Taehyung-ssi." You turned your head towards his father, "I see your old man is doing good."

He nodded, "All thanks to you. I still have that favor to return."

It was unshrouded, the chemistry between you two was almost visible to the naked eye. Was it just an attraction that you had towards this perfect example of a man or was it something else? You'll admit it, it was the second time you barely met him, and you want more of him, so much more.

You both stared at each other for a good minute before you spoke, "I-uh- wanted some vegetables." You even forgot the name of the exquisite one, the seller had told you about.

"Sure, anything you want." He gestured his hands over the produce lying on the cart table.

"Eggplant I suppose?" You asked innocently. "I wanted an eggplant, a big one."

Taehyung was sure your virgin words didn't insinuate something else. He looked around his stall and said, "Y/n, I don't believe I have any eggplants here. We'll have to go back to my house to look for some. Would you mind?"

You didn't have any patients to look after today neither did anyone care where you went during the day, plus you get to spend time with Taehyung, you don't see a downside to this. So you agree.

As soon as you do, the cheerful man in front of you took your hand and lead you across the puzzled roads of the market.

"Taehyung-ssi! Don't hold my hand like that!" You exclaimed as he dragged you with him. The people looked at the young couple as if they might pop out fangs anytime.

"People are just looking, they won't do anything. Trust me." and you did for no apparent reason. You trusted him with everything you had. But a part of you called out and asked you how he knew all this, how he was so confident when he kissed you. Had he done this before?

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

"I thought your mother would be home." You enquired as you looked at the 25 year old trying to close the heavy wooden door after you asked him to. He barely had any neighbors but the ones he had, you didn't want them snooping around in your business.

"She's at the farm." He replied brightly. There was this thing about him, he looked so stern when he didn't talk to you but when he did, he was the most fun person you had ever seen.

As soon as he closed the door, he hugged you and you dropped your little bag of groceries at his actions. "I've missed you." Yes, you did too.

"Why?" You asked even though you knew better than anyone else. He had kissed you, an act hardly performed by actual lovers. There was no way to get him out of your mind after that.

If anyone knew you had did something of sorts you'd be ridiculed for your entire lifetime. But you didn't regret it at all.

"Maybe because I have never seen someone as beautiful as you." Softly touching your face like you were a raw sculpture, "And I think my mind is heading to a sinful place with you and there's no stop in sight."

You smiled softly, "We don't even know each other..."

"But you trust me right?" He whispered.

"Unfortunately, I do." Making you both laugh softly.

"Let me court you then." He said biting his lip, indicating his nervousness.

What was this man talking about? A woman of your status and a man of his caste shouldn't even mingle with each other, let alone do what you two did that night.

Your father, the public, the Emperor would all prefer you both dead over that happening.

However, Taehyung didn't care. He hated the caste system. 'Only the insecure and afraid would make such a thing up.' He often said.

You wanted Taehyung to love you, you wanted him to know how much you craved for someone, him to be precise, to come into your life and destroy you completely with their love.

You were thinking clearly when you said, "I would love that."

To say Taehyung was happy, would be an understatement. He wanted you; call it lust, call it desire, but it was a form of his love.

"Then you wouldn't mind if I did this..." He said before swiftly untying the front of your hanbok making you gasp and pull out of his embrace.

"What are you doing?" You scrambled trying to re-tie the knot.

"I thought you said you trust me." He smirked, pushing the outer layer of coat off of your shoulders before you could react.

"Taehyung!"

"You trust me right? Let me help you." His words struck you. Help you? How?

"Help me with what?" You stand still as he pulls you out of the coat and discards it onto the ground.

"I know what it's like being a 19 year old. Heck, I still know what it feels like. Being so alone, everyone hates you, you hate everyone. I know how you crave love. Let me give it to you."

How could he possibly know? "I don't wish for love." You state.

"Tsk, you can lie all you want, but I can see it written boldly in your eyes, those beautiful eyes."

You could say no and put a stop to his madness. But the look he gave you, that look that made you want to let loose and give in to his madness. He clearly wanted your body and this was his way of getting it, but how could you possibly deny it when you wanted the same at some point.

You gulped, "If I agree to whatever you're doing? Will you promise no one, not even your parents or your friends, find out?"

You weren't afraid of giving him anything, you were only afraid of what your father might do if he found out. He would beat you, whip you for sure but he would hire men to kill Taehyung.

"It's sex, so call it that, baby. And I am willing to promise the world to you if you just say yes."

"Taehyung, I don't care what happens to me, but I would rather be dead than have anything happen to you."

"Take risks, live a little uisa-nim."

You never took risks. When your father let you out of the house, you never lost your track, always going the way he asked you to go. You never dared to look at a man how much ever you wanted to.

Taehyung though, lured you in. He was a mere Cheonmin but yet he had more life than an upper class man. He had more potential, more everything.

At this moment, you couldn't help but agree. You would never do this if it were anyone else, but it was Taehyung, the man who kissed you on the first day you met.

"My body is what you want, and my body is what you shall get." You take a deep breath and pull him by his hanbok before he could reply and plant a kiss on his lips.

Taehyung wasn't the one to stop kissing your soft lips and correct you that he, in fact didn't wish for your body. He wished for your love, he wished that you craved him the same way he craved you.

You clearly had no experience nor had you ever seen how to kiss someone properly so you didn't move at all expecting this was all you needed to do to kiss.

This turned him on however. Having to teach you everything and molding you into whatever he pleased from a girl.

He pulled back, "That's not how you do it." He let out an arrogant chuckle. "Just go with your instincts and fight with my lips, devour them."

Saying that he placed his lips on yours once again this time meeting with a much warmer welcome from your mouth.

"You're a- fast learner-" He said between the kisses.

It was when he brought in his tongue, you were surprised. However you decided to fight with yours as well.

Your hands entangled into his long hair. He tapped your thigh and signalled you to jump. You trusted him and did as he asked and clinged onto him for dear life.

Oh, how you yearned for more. Conflicting your tongues wasn't enough, you needed his entire body.

Both of you were moaning, Taehyung's deep voice getting you wetter by the second.

Taehyung couldn't possibly get harder than how he was now. He tasted every last inch of your mouth while moving both of your intertwined selves to a room.

Breaking the kiss, he said, "Let me place a blanket here, it's going to get messy. Wouldn't want the floor to get all dirtied up by you." That made you blush more than any suitor ever had.

He gently let you down and arranged the blanket. Adjusting it's corners, he patted on it for you to lay.

"I'm scared." You finally said as he was removing his clothings.

Pausing slightly, he smiled, "You don't have to do this. I won't be upset."

"I'm scared but I want this. I want you."

"Are you sure about that, princess?" He pulled down his pants revealing a very hard dick, almost slapping onto his abdomen.

"Th-that's..." Big, was the right word for it.

Now, you were a doctor in training and you knew how sex worked and how certain body parts looked like. But you had never in your years of study seen or imagined a penis so big.

"Do you not like it?" He mocked wiggling it around a bit making you snicker.

"No, it's just- it's big..." He was almost estatic at your words.

Taehyung was completely naked at this point while you still had your undergarments on. He helped you remove the one surrounding your breasts.

Your boobs fell into his hands with a bounce. It was like he malfunctioned, staring at them for a quick minute before licking his lips and diving in.

You had never felt this before. Your fingers found their way into his hair once again.

"You're so fucking perfect." He said licking one of your nipples and softly biting onto it.

"T-Tae..." You practically shed tears at the feeling.

He moved between your neck and your breasts, kissing and marking up wherever he felt like it. It was a vice, you were a vice to him.

It felt so good, however you needed friction somewhere else as well.

You started rubbing your legs together and it didn't go unnoticed by him.

"Mmm, I know baby, you need me there?"

You replied with a shaky yes.

Leaving your boobs, his hand travelled downwards and into your lower undergarment.

As soon as his cold, long fingers pressed onto your clit, you let out a high pitched moan.

"Have you ever touched yourself?" He asked.

"I've tried it sometimes but never finished." You said weakly.

Taehyung was beyond the limit of hardness at the moment. He had no idea he would be so turned on by a girl so inexperienced. The things he would do to you in the future were boundless.

His hand worked on your clit while his mouth worked on your boobs. You were a moaning mess at this point. Taehyung gave you what you wanted and more.

He licked a long strip from your chest to your lips, kissing you with utmost passion. You were so addictive, all he wanted was to taste every single part of you.

He finally discarded your lower undergarment.

Dragging his fingers from your clit to your core, he slowly entered one finger. You let out a loud whimper.

"It's so tight, baby. How am I going to fit in there? I can't even fit my fingers." He showed fake concern.

You didn't even care at this point, you wanted him deeper in you.

He added another finger that stretched you out. Trying his best to loosen you up for his big dick, he started a scissoring motion with his fingers.

You tried your best to hold back your moans but his fingers felt so good, you're sure the neighbours heard you. He didn't care, it only added to his ego.

He shuffled down and dragged his lips along your body, down your clit all the way to your core. He wanted, needed to taste you so bad, he couldn't resist anymore.

He licked the slick dripping down your thighs because he didn't want any to go to waste.

He was extremely skillful with his tongue, delving expertly within your folds, bringing you near to the edge as soon as he begun. Holding your hips down, he continued.

"Tae, I think- I'm coming"

"Come on, you can do it." Taehyung could hardly believe he was the one to experience your first orgasm.

His hands reached up to twist and fondle your boobs.

Seeing his head of hair digging into your cunt for a taste had you coming in just seconds.

He licked every last drop of your wetness. When he finished, his head popped up with a smug look on his face.

"You have no idea how heavenly you taste." He said locking lips with you once again making you taste yourself. You did taste nice.

"I want to make you feel good too." You said.

"Not today" He said dragging his tip across your folds. "Today I wish to be directly inside you."

His little action made your cunt gush with juices.

"Are you scared, baby?"

"Yeah, but go ahead."

"This is going to hurt a lot. But you'll take it right? For me?" You nod as he leaned down and placed his lips on your forehead. A very intimate gesture that had you falling for him right in the moment.

Now you were very scared. Did you fall for a man you met a few days ago? Not to mention you're in a very vulnerable position with him as well.

Your innocent mind didn't know any better. What you thought was love, was just mere attraction at the moment which turned to love eventually.

"Tae- fuck" He pushed his tip inside.

"Are you okay?"

"Just go- slow" you squirmed.

He pulled out and pushed in once again this time going halfway in.

"It hurts..." You started sheding tears. Taehyung hated seeing you like this. Ofcourse he would have loved to see you cry, but from pleasure.

"We can sto-"

"You can go deeper now..."

He did as you said and bottomed out. Taehyung blamed his stupidly huge dick for making you cry.

He wiped your tears and placed his forehead against yours.

"You can tell me when to move, I'll be still until you tell me to."

It took you at least a minute or two to adjust and accommodate his length. The man on top of you aided by kissing you deeply through every second of it. You began to move the slightest bit on your own making Taehyung hiss.

"Shall I?" He was still patient, waiting for you to utter the words.

"Please, move." You let out.

Taehyung finally let go of the breath he didn't know he was retaining. He had to remind himself multiple times that he was your first, it pained you.

'Not yet.' He said to himself, referring to the fact that he couldn't fuck you as roughly as a pleased.

His thrusts were unhurried yet firm. So firm that it made your back arch at how deep his cock went.

You couldn't help but moan, in fact that was all you could do. Pleasure overtook your senses and you were at Taehyung's mercy.

He intertwined his fingers with yours on either side of your head, "So good for me, so tight."

"Faster!"

"Yeah? Want me to go faster? Such a little slut."

You were surprised at what you heard. You wanted to defend yourself, you were far from a slut and you were sure Taehyung knew that. Oh, but it turned you on so good. Him degrading you like that, him making you feel humiliated.

Taehyung must have sensed the effect it had on you, how could he not? You moaned the loudest when he said that.

"So wet, baby. I bet all the guys would love your little pussy, wouldn't they?"

"Want- only you." You somehow vocalised.

He loved it so much, the effect he had on you.

"Need to train you to become my personal sleeve, am I right?"

"Fuck, I can't-" You knew this feeling, you were coming.

He picked up the pace, hitting your sweet spot repeatedly. The scene itself was too explicit. Had anyone seen it, it would have been too entralling.

"Come on." He punctuated his words with his thrusts.

You let out a moan of his name and reached your high.

Taehyung's pace stuttered, an indication of him reaching his high as well. He realised, much to his dismay, he couldn't cum inside of you. He halted to pull out.

"No! You can let go inside of me."

"But, you'll-"

"I am a doctor in training, I have some herbs that can work." You smirked.

He chuckled, "Someone's being a little too smart."

He resumed his thrusts. After a few of them, he came. The feeling was really euphoric. Having the one you had feelings for, let his semen coat your insides.

He pulled out and laid beside you. Both of you faced each other; low on energy but high on love.

Taehyung lifted his hand up, tracing the apple of your cheek ever so slightly making you smile.

He spoke first, "That was..."

"I know, I don't have words for it either."

"Can I tell you something crazy?" He asked pulling you to lay on top of him.

"Ofcourse, what is it?"

"I think I am madly in love with you."

You looked into his eyes, slightly glossy from the overwhelming feelings he had for you.

"What do you mean?" You ask in almost a whisper.

"I know it's been just a few days, but I feel like I have known you for years. Like, your favourite colour is probably blue."

You giggle, "It's not, but go on."

"Then I want to know you better, Kim Y/N. What do you say?"

"Thank you for making me feel, Kim Taehyung." You bury your face into his chest. "This is the first time anyone has had feelings for me, let alone loved me. I never had feelings either, but you are something else."

You look up at him, "I think I'm in love with you too."

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

He had become your only beacon of hope. Your only little support while you were drowning. What happens when a human is given that? He clings onto it as fast as he can, as tightly as he can.

It had been 5 months since you first met Taehyung. 5 months full of exploring and adventures. It would be proper to say that you never would have guessed you got this close to someone.

You'd spend hours on end with him, until it was finally time to go home before the sunset.

You had introduced him to your special spot. A small, secluded clearing in a forest beside a lake. You had stumbled upon it when you were barely a teenager. No one except Hoseok and now Taehyung knew about it.

"What are you thinking about?" The man whose arms engulfed you asked.

Taehyung was leaning against a tree while you sat between his legs leaned against his chest.

"About the day when the Emperor was practically fuming when I said I couldn't prepare a dish for him on his birthday."

Taehyung twirled a strand of your hair with his index finger and laughed, "I wish I were there to see it."

"I hate him so, so much."

"Yeah, I hope to punch him in the face someday for what he did to you all these years."

"I love you..." You cozied yourself deeper into his arms.

"Love you too."

The talks from the noble and humble alike were spreading. No one fancied the way you, an unmarried aristocrat girl, spent time with a Cheonmin. Certainly, they couldn't see what you did behind closed doors, but you found yourself afraid of what they might do if they did.

Taehyung didn't care and asked you to do so as well. But how could you? When your father continued to beat the life out of you, even more so now that the talks flew around.

You couldn't mention it to your lover because it would have very obvious yet perilous consequences. So you had to feign that everything was alright.

That is why, whenever he asked you where you got a certain bruise from, you would reply with a simple, 'Oh, this? I fell.' or any other falsified answer you could think of.

Every day Taehyung walked you home, or sometimes even carried you just to the edge of the forest. And you were once again back to your oppressive household without anyone to share your sorrows with.

But this day was different. He walked with you till you were a few houses away from your own, you parted ways and you walked back alone to your house, or rather, you thought you'd be alone.

A voice came from behind you, "Good evening, young lady." You almost jumped at how close the man was to your ear and how you didn't hear him coming to this proximity.

The man in question looked much older than you, almost as old as Hoseok. This person was certainly here to bother you and you definitely weren't down for it.

You let out a nervous laughter, "Oh, good evening." And walked forward without sparing him a second glance.

"Don't be so rude now, I am here to speak with you." He caught up to your hurried pace.

"I am sorry but I don't suppose I would be of any use to you." A myriad of questions arose in your mind. Who was he? Was he here to have his way with you? You had heard from Taehyung, what men possibly thought of you; and it certainly wasn't pure.

"Ah, see that's where you are wrong." He said in a false vile tone, "You are very useful to me."

You turned around completely appalled, "That is no way to talk to someone, a lady in particular. I could be of use to you after you have spoken with my father."

"Who is the lady here? I see a girl, no, a kitten."

Not having much time to spare, as your father would quite literally kill you for being outside after dark, you said, "Sir, I am no kitten, but I am not one to argue with you. Good day." Saying this hopefully deterred him enough to not pursue you anymore.

And it did work, he didn't follow you after that, or rather, again, you thought he wouldn't follow you.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

"How was your day, father?" You asked setting his footwear aside and welcoming him.

"Well, the funniest thing happened today. A master brought in his slave for treatment." He laughed. Ofcourse, he wouldn't give his services to anyone lower than the nobles and the occasional palace workers.

Your mother reciprocated his laughter with her own, "You should have told your assistant to not let them in." The two of them joked further while the kitchen staff served them dinner. You sat down on the floor beside your father fidgeting and looking down at your fingers on your lap.

It annoyed you, like something that constantly pricked you deep within. It was the way not just your parents, but the majority of people spoke about the lower and less fortunate.

"Isn't it funny, my daughter? Why are you not laughing?" He asked. You had been over this before. You would ask him not to speak about the lower castes this way and in return he would starve you for the night.

"It's just that..."

"What is it?" He asked in a stern voice. "Speak up!"

"I-I don't like your words. I don't like the way you talk about them." You shut your eyes fully expecting a smack right across your face.

But it never came. Neither did your father's anger.

Instead he laughed.

"Is that so? My dear, do you know what that slave said to me?" He asked. You were stunned and confused to say anything.

"He said, 'You don't mind your daughter sleeping with that Kim boy, but you refuse to treat me?'"

You began to grow even more confused as you looked at the servants setting up another plate of food on a small table similar to yours and your parents'.

"You know Jeon called me to his palace today. He has heard the rumours as well."

A man with cold feline eyes and his forehead covered with his messy yet well-maintained bangs walked into the room. He held a scowl on his face as he sat down at the table in front of yours.

Your eyes widened. It was the same person who had bothered you earlier that day.

"Father, what's going on?" You asked partially getting up from your little table.

But your father simply completed his previous statement, "So, he sent his finest to keep an eye on you."

"What do you mean?"

"Meet Min Yoongi."

#bts smut #bts fic #kim taehyung #new writer boost #bts #bts taehyung #bts jungkook #bts jungguk #bts fics #bts fanfic #bts ff #fanfic #fiction #historical au #park jimin #pop music #nucleo-bang-tan #jeon jungkook #jeongguk

[btsmosphere]

Still Waters Run Deep | KTH

~summary: down at the riverbank is a boy whose eyes hold each swell of the waves, whose hair ruffles like the reeds. but the peaceful magic of the river may become your only sanctuary when wilder forces come into play ~pairing: taehyung x f!reader ~word count: 13.6k ~fluff, angst, childhood friends to lovers, fantasy au, historical au, spirited away inspired ~rating: pg13 ~warnings: fantasy violence, kids being mean, flooding, storms, mention of arranged marriage, war, potentially implied drowning, I gush about tae’s hair too much

~a/n: omG I’m finally back!! much like the last time I participated in @toikiii​’s wonderful ghibli collab, I have ended up with something wayyy out of hand compared with what I expected haha - I srsly thought this one would not be as long! but somehow... here we are. it mainly consists of lots of scenes and some giant time skips, so bear with me! I haven’t done such a chunk of writing in so long and it’s honestly wild, I’m pleased with it but I have no idea on the quality hahaha. please let me know what you think! I hope you enjoy this <3

Small feet slipped clumsily down the muddy bank, your shrieks and giggles accompanying each bump on your way down.

Reaching the bottom, you pushed through the tall reeds that grew beside the river. Water seeped into your shoes and the hem of your skirt, not that you paid it any mind. Maybe your parents wouldn’t be too impressed when your returned home, but you were too impatient to try the small contraption clutched in your hands.

Father probably meant for you to cross the bridge and walk down to the flattest river bank. Instead, you had rushed down on this side of the bridge, simply wanting to reach the water as soon as you could.

Padding over to the bridge, you grasped onto the stone with one chubby hand. Last night had been the first rain in a while, leaving the ground soggy, but it meant the river was low in its banks.

Carefully crouching down, you took another look at the little boat in your hand. Smile making its way onto your face, you finally plopped it into the calm water, watching it bob up and down.

It was nothing more than a bundle of sticks your father had fashioned together with a flag on top, but to you it lit your heart with excitement. Going to the river was your favourite treat, and going to play was even better.

A wave, slightly bigger than the other ripples on the water, caught the small boat then. With a small gasp, you grabbed it before it could get out of reach, still clinging to the pillar of the bridge with one hand.

The sticks dripped water onto the front of your jeogori, but you didn’t notice, already busy placing the boat back upstream.

Letting it go, you decided to try a new game, running a short way along the bank and giggling all the way. Near the bridge was a willow tree, its tendrils drooping over into the water, and you waited at its base for the small boat to float your way.

Bouncing up and down on the river bank, you watched its gentle progress. When it drew closer, you clutched one of the willow branches in your fist and crouched again, holding a hand out to scoop your prized toy from the water.

You repeated your little game a few times, each time snatching the boat and rushing back to the bridge to do it all again.

Having just placed it in the water again, you skipped back to the spot by the willow tree. The wind had picked up, pulling teasingly at your hair and eliciting more giggles. It wasn’t until you crouched to capture the toy again that you saw it, too, being jostled by the wind, tugged away from the shore.

Holding tight to the willow branch, you stretched towards it, but your arm was too short to reach. Filled with urgency, you swiped to grab it, but it sailed past your fingertips, leaving them to grasp at nothing but water.

Crying out, you tried to grab it again, but it was hopeless. With your lunge, your feet slipped on the mud and you fell on your front, air expelled from your lungs and hands falling helplessly by the riverside.

Looking up, you watched your little boat bob happily out of sight among the willow leaves.

Lip wobbling, you pushed yourself up, still winded from the fall. Small gasps escaped your lips as you sat up, and as soon as you had regained enough air, you burst into tears.

Salty droplets began trailing down your face, eyes screwed up as you bawled to the empty river.

Your cries eventually died down into hiccups, and you looked glumly across the water through waterlogged vision. Between your sniffles, the willow branches swayed. You were too distraught to notice that the wind was no longer blowing.

It wasn’t until a small boy pushed between the leafy canopy that you tore your eyes from the place you had lost your boat.

Sniffing determinedly, you clumsily wiped a hand over your face. You didn’t want him to know you had been crying.

As you blinked away the tears, you could see the boy better. His dark hair was wavy, long enough to reach his big eyes. They were fixed on you.

Looking back at him, you frowned. Why was he looking at you?

You were about to tell him rudely to go away, even though you knew mother would never want you to do that, when he stepped closer again.

His hanbok was simple in shape like yours, dyed a pleasant blue colour. But you had never seen any of the other children’s robes glitter like that in the light when he moved. Nor did you recognise the pendant which hung around his neck, a small blue swirl.

Surely he couldn’t be the child of a yangban though – he walked with bare feet.

You sprung from the ground, startling him to a stop in turn.

“What’s your name?” you asked.

Those big dark eyes blinked. He stared for a bit longer.

“Taehyung.”

He spoke softly, but his answer was direct.

“I found your boat,” he said.

Your hostility towards the boy flew away at once. Instead, your heart filled with elation.

You hadn’t noticed him holding the boat earlier, but you didn’t care because now it was right there in his hand. Holding it out, his offering bridged the space between you.

Smile taking hold of your face, you bounced forwards eagerly to grab it. The sticks were dry again, the little flag still standing proud. It was like new!

You had already turned to hurry back to the water’s edge when you hesitated. Turning around, you found the little boy still watching you from the same spot. Looking towards the boat and back up again, you shifted your feet.

“Thank you,” you said dutifully, like you parents said you should. “Do you want to play?”

Needless to say, your parents were quite shocked when you bounced through the door later that day, clothes damp and smeared in mud – even more so than normal. Sighing fondly, your mother ushered you away to attempt to wrangle you into clean clothes.

Wriggling from her grasp every time, you seemed more occupied with showing off your boat and the story of the friend you had made at the river.

“He came from the willow tree!” you garbled excitedly, “and we played and played! He could make the boat go really fast!”

“Did he really?” your father smiled, taking the boat carefully from your hands. He made a show of observing it while your mother finally had the chance to begin unfastening your ruined hanbok.

“The willow tree?” she asked, capturing your attention.

You eagerly nodded, but she merely laughed.

“Darling, that’s the edge of town, he can’t have come from there,” she explained, pulling your arm from one sleeve.

“But he did!” you insisted.

“The willow tree?” your father then echoed, “why were you on that side of the river, hmm?”

Eyes growing wide, you hurriedly shut your mouth. Not a very good denial of guilt, but it worked all the same as your father simply ruffled your hair and told you to obey your mother.

Successfully more subdued, you stood still and allowed your mother to bundle your dirty clothes up and send you on your way.

“Did you meet your friend again?”

Your mother was still fixing the chima you had ripped last week. When she looked around to see you come in, once again with grass stains littering the hem of your clothes, that was the first question she asked.

Since you had first met Taehyung, this had become a sort of tradition. When you were down by the river alone, he would often find you and play together just as you had done that first time, a few years ago now.

The fun you always had together was usually missed by your parents, though. Instead, it only caused them frustration at the ruined clothes and damp shoes. They had taken to sending you out in your wet weather shoes anytime you went to the river.

Coming to stand in front of her, you chewed your lip. She never seemed to believe you, aways merely amused at the stories you came back with.

“We watched the merchants coming down the river,” you told her, defensive, “and we ran along, trying to keep up with their boat.”

Your mother hummed, placing down her sewing and taking in the state of you. It could have been worse, at least.

“Go and get changed, please, darling.”

Water gently lapped against your toes. It was a good thing you had carefully removed your shoes to stand at the bottom of the bank. Your hands smoothed over the pale pink fabric that adorned your hanbok. You were definitely not allowed to get these clothes dirty.

For once, you didn’t want to either.

It was your birthday.

Your nicer things had been brought to you, and you wanted to make the most of wearing them. Eventually you had managed to make your mother relent on taking them off your before you could run outside with them.

On your trip to the river, several people had greeted you and the wise lady on the corner had said a blessing that you didn’t really understand, but bowed to her anyway.

What you hoped most of all is that Taehyung would come.

Fingers fumbling with the pendant your father had crafted for you today, you eyed all along the river.

Even though it was your birthday, your father still had to work and your mother chores to do. So you would have a little time out here. If only you could say you waited patiently.

You shifted several times, grabbing your shoes and taking them to sit on the river. Then you decided to forage for stones, taking pretty ones until they spilled from your palms, when you would make a little tower that invariably collapsed back into the shallow water.

The preservation of your nicest clothes had left your mind, instead preoccupied with impatience. Tired of waiting, you flopped back onto the grass with a pout.

A few children bigger than you were laughing down by the willow tree. Other than that, it was quiet. It was the middle of the day, all the fishermen had left already and it was overcast with clouds, so no one would be coming to wash their clothes or enjoy the river.

It was unfair that you should have to frown on your birthday. But here you were, trying not to let your frustrated tears burst from your eyes.

Before they could begin, they were startled from your eyes.

A gasp left your lips, and you sat up straight, eyes fixed above.

Something disturbed the expansive cloudy sky. Among the sheet of whiteish grey, a creature dipped down, parting the billowing sea.

With wide eyes, you watched a long silvery body swirling through the air. It was far away, and moved very fast, but you caught sight of a dark, flowing fringe along its back.

Without thinking, you pushed yourself to your feet and started racing along in an attempt to follow the creature. You had just reached the other side of the bridge when the dragon tilted its head, and even in the vast distance between you on the grass and it, so high in the sky, you felt its piercing gaze.

The wind rumbled and the dragon twisted, its body snaking back into the canopy of clouds.

You were left standing on the bank, blinking in disbelief. Already you questioned what you had saw. If you told your parents, they would undoubtedly laugh at the imagination of their child. There was only one person who might believe you, and you wanted to see him now even more than before. If only he had seen it too!

Returning bashedly to the stony bank, you stopped your fidgeting. You replayed the vision of the flying snake over in your mind.

“Happy birthday.”

How had the time passed? While you sat thinking, you never noticed Taehyung approaching, never saw him come over the bridge, nor emerge from the willow tree where the other children were now paddling in the river.

Jumping up, you wasted no time bouncing over to him.

“Taehyung! You’ll never guess what! I saw a dragon!”

His eyebrows rapidly climbed his face.

“Where?”

“In the sky, of course.”

He turned to look at the sky, a funny smile on his face. Frowning, you put your hands on your hips.

“Well it isn’t there any more. It went away.”

“Dragons don’t have to be in the sky, you know,” Taehyung said, eyes glittering.

You blinked at him.

“Where else would they be?”

Slowly spinning around, Taehyung’s eyes searched the place before his face lit up.

“There’s a big dragon that lives in the river!” he exclaimed, bouncing forwards, “and it’s really strong, and it makes the waves go!”

Hurrying after him, you hesitated as he splashed into the shallows.

“Then shouldn’t we be careful?” you worried, “it might not like us. It might eat you!”

Taehyung laughed so hard he flopped onto the bank, tummy shaking with his happiness.

“Don’t be silly! It likes people – it lets them have the bridge here. And it knows it’s your birthday!”

By now you were grinning, familiar matching joy on both your and Taehyung’s faces. Before long, you were always having fun with Tae, and you eagerly joined in his game.

“It will come to visit me, and it will jump out of the water and splash everywhere!”

As you rambled, you bent down to the water and scooped some up, flinging it into the air with your arms spread. Some droplets sprayed back onto you, but most landed on Taehyung who was soon leaping to retaliate.

The sounds of your laughter rounded out your birthday that year. He would always come.

Expansive blue skies stretched above you today. The sun reached down, caressing the roads and rooftops of your village unhindered by clouds.

Leaving your house, you skipped happily to the end of your road. Turning the corner, you headed downhill. A cart kicked up dust from the baked ground on its way past.

Passing the next street, you waved at the kind lady who lived on the corner. Her walking stick was stubbornly abandoned against the wall of her house as she draped clothing out in the sun.

Walking in the shade of the trees that grew on the corners, you passed two more streets before making it to your small bridge. Further up the road, you could see the town’s larger bridge and part of the crowd of merchants who gathered around for market. But you had already gone this morning, and were now heading elsewhere.

The willow tree rested today, no wind to stir it.

Continuing past, you made your way across the stone bridge. Though your river was peaceful, it was wide and deep in the middle. Stopping to lean over the edge, you looked back at your reflection far away in the dark water below you. Though there was no breeze, the river still had life, and the image undulated as you watched.

Motion beyond the reflection caught your eye, dashing out of sight before you could focus on it. Maybe a fish? It had caught the light momentarily, and now you stood on your tiptoes, fervently eyeing the water to catch another glimpse.

A shrill shriek sounded, a large splash rapidly following.

You whirled around. At the other side of the bridge, a group of children was gathered, laughter rising from them. One climbed up onto the edge, just in their underthings. They leapt enthusiastically from the side, clutching their knees with their hands before they descended from view.

Cheers rose again as the group rushed forwards, peering over the side as the next splash sounded.

Looking over your shoulder, back to the water, the reflections were now disrupted by the ripples. Something light darted through the waves, but again, it was gone too soon. Probably a trick of the light.

Light frown on your face, you tore your eyes away and approached the gaggle. Some of them noticed you, but soon enough the attention was taken by the next one to launch from the bridge.

Finally catching up to them, you peered over with the others. The three children were splashing around in the water below. It wasn’t as deep as the very middle of the river.

“Join in!” someone nudged you as the next one climbed onto the edge.

Most of the group was a little older than you, but you recognised these children from playing at the river before. A slight flutter of nerves hit you as you watched the next girl jump, thinking it could be you.

But you had come here to swim, and the cries of laughter from below told you it would be alright.

Running to the end of the bridge, you discarded your overgarments in a pile with the others before joining the waiting group, smaller now. One of the older boys gave you a hand up, and you found your toes hanging over the edge, gently rippling water waiting below you.

With a gulping breath, you looked forwards and sprung from the bridge.

For a split second, the cheers from behind met your ears, air rushing past you, before you hit the water. Plunging down in a blur, the cool river engulfed your head, bubbles roaring around your ears.

You plummeted until a force suspended you in the water briefly, then the river shot you back to the surface. Gasping with glee, you opened your eyes, blinking away the droplets clinging to your lashes in order to look around.

To your surprise, you only saw your own legs below you as you trod water. The others had already swum further off.

You were so certain you had felt someone catch you – like a pair of arms had stopped your descent in the water. But your worries were unfounded. You hadn’t accidentally fallen on top of someone.

Getting your bearings in the water, you gasped when your toe met the slimy ground below you. It was almost shallow enough for you to stand up here! Maybe when you grew some more-

“Look out below!”

Startled by the yell from above you, you hurriedly splashed and paddled away, watching another boy drop into the river.

Rays of sun beating down, you enjoyed floating beneath the bridge where you could shelter in the large swath of shade. Giggling surrounded you, and your face was sprayed with refreshing drops as friends splashed each other.

You were rocked by the large wake as some of the boys ran around to jump in again.

Turning away from the laughter and cheers, you gently swum under the bridge. Lazing in the water, you eyed the centre of the river where you had seen the fish earlier. You weren’t quite brave enough to swim that far out.

Instead, you brought yourself closer to one of the bridge’s stone supports, peering around at the empty bank on the other side.

Was Taehyung going to come out today? It was the height of summer, and you couldn’t think where else anyone would want to be other than in the cool water.

Your eyes searched left and right along each bank, but there was nothing beyond the water’s shine as it lapped against the banks. Some of the willow leaves shimmered.

An increase in the racket behind you made you turn away at last. The willow leaves stilled again, a large, dark pair of eyes blinking from behind the cover as your form slipped back under the shadow of the bridge.

When you emerged on the other side of the bridge, it was to the group laughing and waving upstream. In that direction, a shape was visible and growing above the water.

Specks of light from the river danced on the prow of the boat as it approached.

“The fishermen are setting off!”

“Bring back lots!”

Some of the children were announcing.

In the boat, some of the fishermen gathered on the nearest side of the boat, or leaned from the prow. They waved back grinning.

“Take care of your mothers!” they called.

The boat passed, the lot of you bobbing in the wake it left.

“We could chase after them,” you suggested brightly to a girl beside you.

“Let’s chase after them!” she echoed.

A great splashing commenced, all of you propelling yourselves clumsily in the direction of the boat. Some of the older ones made it to the other side of the bridge before the vessel disappeared completely around the next meander, as if swallowed up by the sunlight streaming between the trees.

Already panting, you gave up sooner, splashing and spluttering around until you were able to simply float instead.

Still laughing, the group headed back towards you. They were all tired out enough, making their way towards the shallows.

“I got a lot closer when I played that with Taehyung,” you remarked, “it’s faster if you run.”

But you just got a frown from the nearest boy.

“Who’s Taehyung?” he said.

A few of the others looked around as well. Nearing the edge of the river, they were clambering out over rocks and earth.

“She plays with him, but no one’s ever seen him,” one girl stopped and chipped in, but she was only looking at the boy who questioned you, “my mum told me.”

Slipping over a rock in your attempt to stand, you tried to catch up to them as they went further up the bank, laughing.

“He’s my friend!” you called.

“Aren’t you too old for imaginary friends?” one of the older ones questioned from their spot leaning against the bridge.

Pouting, you finally reached the group at the shore. They were all busy retrieving their clothes, but seemed quite interested in this new topic.

“She’s strange,” someone said, “why did we let her play with us?”

“Why don’t you play with Taehyung instead, next time?”

The group erupted in laughter. Folding your arms defensively, you huffed. Trying to keep your eyes down, you headed forwards to grab your things and leave. Maybe you would go and find Taehyung after all. Even if you didn’t know where to find him. He only came when he wanted to.

As you stormed through, the group parted for you, but you couldn’t see your things anywhere.

A small scuffle caught your attention, muffled laughter.

On the bridge, the boy from earlier was holding something. Reaching over the wall with one hand, it unfolded from his grasp, fabric dangling dangerously towards the water. Gasping, you took a step forwards.

It looked as if one of the eldest was trying to pull him away, but he didn’t pay attention, laughter growing louder as he saw your face.

He let go, and your clothes fell from his fingers. The simple cotton pieces drifted slowly in the air, but their path was certain.

Your feet were already moving, splashing once more in the shallow water and slipping on the riverbed. But there was nothing you could do. Your clothes landed certainly on the surface, growing patches of translucence spreading as they sat there.

Laughter once more filled the air, but faded as the children left, back over the bridge. Even the older boy who gave his younger brother a smack over the head didn’t linger much more.

Paddling determinedly back into the river, the cold was no longer a pleasant respite for you. You had spent enough time in the water, and your damp skin had just been above water, cooling you down more. The drops hitting your face made you frown against the spots of freezing cold which bloomed where they dripped on your cheeks.

Your clothes lay flat on the surface, undulating with the slight current. Simply floating, harmless enough, they still drifted further away. It wasn’t until you had come under the bridge again that you caught up enough to grab them from the water in front of you.

There was no hope for them. Even before you gathered them into your arms, they were utterly soaked.

Clutching them tightly in one arm, you awkwardly swum towards the grassier shore this side of the bridge. You swallowed stubbornly, focussing on your one-armed journey through the water. Cold water enveloped your neck, lapping at your chin as you dipped below the surface a little with the added difficulty staying afloat.

Despite their ruined state, you refused to let go of your bundle of clothes. As your feet found the earthy ground, small pebbles stung your bare feet, but you stumbled towards the shore in any case.

Cascades of water flowed from the fabric even as you stood, the sad clump weighing your arms down.

Some irresistible force was dragging the corners of your mouth down. Sniffing stoically, you finally deposited yourself on the bank, staring out over the water. Soaked and starting to shiver, your will to keep back the sting in your eyes faltered.

The other kids were long gone, not around to see you anymore. All you had was the river, suddenly looking duller and less inviting, and the sodden fabric which chilled you more as it lay pathetically across your lap.

“Are you swimming?”

Shoulders instantly stiffening, your tears were startled to a stop. Blinking rapidly, you twisted to look over your shoulder.

Taehyung stood just behind you, dressed in just a simple shift like your own. His dark hair curled down to his eyes, innocently fixed on you.

“Not anymore.”

You turned your head back towards the river, hoping your eyes didn’t look red. Or that he hadn’t noticed, if they were.

Feet padded softly over the grass and the boy settled at your side. There had been no breeze, but perhaps the air was stiller now. It bit less at your damp skin.

The two of you sat in relative quiet on the riverbank. Water flowed calmly past you, no movement below the surface attracting your eyes as you stared blankly over it. Taehyung shared the stillness with you, not moving or speaking but his presence remained firmly at your side.

Glancing towards him, not enough to meet his eyes, you chewed your tongue. Then you placed one hand on your knee, pushing yourself clumsily from the ground and letting your clothes slide to the floor. Mud stains couldn’t make them any less wearable than they were now.

“I need to go home,” you said.

Taehyung eyed you curiously. Despite your words, you didn’t move.

His gaze shifted back over the water.

“It’s sunny,” he said.

A frown was still etched into your face, but you followed his gaze. Specks of sun bounced off the crests of miniature waves, rays dancing through the grasses and tickling your toes. A sigh left you, some tension melting away.

“Why didn’t you come to play earlier?” you asked quietly.

“I’m here now!” Taehyung smiled by way of explanation, jumping up. His smile was bright and made his cheeks look round. Already, you felt a budding smile making its way to the surface.

“Do you want to swim?” you asked.

Serious for a short moment, he fixed your eyes. “You shouldn’t go back in the water.”

Some relief came to you, although you wondered whether Taehyung must be too hot. He hadn’t been in the water yet, after all.

But there was no time to ask; he spun around and raced a short distance up the bank, leaving you to follow. You were quick to give chase, giggling as he looked back with a beaming grin.

“The trees left sticks!” he exclaimed as you reached the first scattered trees that marked the forest at the edge of your village.

Understanding him perfectly, you instinctively rushed around the base of the trees, looping around Taehyung as you both gathered bundles of twigs.

“Thank you trees!” you called gleefully. Taehyung bowed low to the clump you had visited. He bowed more carefully than you saw even your parents do at the shrines, and it made you eager to join in. Even if your mother frowned at this habit of thanking everything.

Your small pairs of feet pattered back up to the bridge, Taehyung just a step ahead of you as you leant against the edge, panting.

Little more time was spent before you were eager to play, however, both of you leaning over the far edge in sync to drop your sticks into the water. For the first several rounds, you invariably came out on top, smile growing with each win until the children from earlier were far from your mind. The current must have been on your side.

It was only then that the wind picked up, and Taehyung suddenly started winning some. But it was far too fun for you to be upset. You only laughed at Taehyung as he stood proudly with his hands on his hips, intolerable grin lighting up his face.

A fishing boat approached from downstream, and you waved off the bridge at them.

“The sun will go down!” someone called, “you should go home to your mother!”

“I will!” you cried back.

When you turned around, Taehyung was no longer on the bridge. He waited for you on the bank.

Hurrying down to join him, you noticed that the light had grown less intense as it had been at the height of the day. His dark hair cast shadows over his eyes and cheeks as it danced in the scarce breeze.

Ready to say goodnight, you launched forwards and wrapped Taehyung in a tight hug. One arm circled you back, gripping tight as you always did.

This time, his other arm forced its way between you. Breaking apart, you looked in surprise at his hand before realising he was returning your bundle of clothes which had been sat on the bank all this time.

Smiling gladly, you gathered them in your own arms, expecting to find them still damp from the earlier swim and their position on the river grass all afternoon. Instead, they were bone dry.

Starting, you fumbled with them, patting the fabric to check.

Assured, you found the shoulders and let them unfold. You paid no mind to the mud still streaked across it, only happy to have them wearable.

One more smile was directed Taehyung’s way after you slipped it over your head, before you were running back across the bridge and up the hill to your home.

Thunder rolled through the clouds, like drums ringing behind the heavy grey.

Casting your eyes to the raging heavens, you were only met with more rain striking your bare face. The dirt under your racing feet was rapidly turning to mud, each hurried footstep splashing more than the last.

Your arms were folded over your head as you ran. The extent of their shelter was questionable, but you had nothing else to shield yourself with as the cold, wet arrows struck from above.

The storm had come out of nowhere. Totally unexpected, it now shadowed the land like it had always been there, only thickening as the river came in sight.

Everyone else had already taken shelter, but you had been far from home when the weather turned, on an errand for your father. He was occupied with expensive and apparently urgent commissions from the impatient yangban, but his conscience refused him to ignore the family across the river who were due a new baby. They paid him to make the most beautiful pot their money could afford, and though not ornate, you thought it had been gorgeous. You had cradled it even as you rushed to their house, having heard the news that the mother was in labour.

Your father’s work was safely under a dry roof, but the same could not be said for you. No thought was spared for the new arrival anymore, or the omen that this raging storm could mean for its birth.

It wasn’t as if you were averse to the elements, but the water you usually loved spat against your face and the wind tore at you, nearly pushing you off the track you valiantly trod along.

A startling flash of light illuminated the path for a moment before the sky bellowed once more. The remnants of thunder echoed as you finally came to the bridge. Raindrops splatted ferociously against the stone, battering the moss which grew between the cracks.

Instead of running across, your feet instinctively took you downwards, around the side of the bridge to duck underneath it.

There wasn’t a still patch of water in the river, the surface battered relentlessly by the storm.

However, the storm had not set in long ago. The river sloshed in its banks but was only rising slowly.

Your chest heaved but you couldn’t fall against the brick to rest, soaked as it was. Some rain blew under the bridge, but the small sprays were nothing compared to the downpour you had just been subject to.

Resting a hand against the stone, you panted, shoulders relaxing at the lack of rain bombarding your frame. Trickles of water ran down your skin, but that didn’t bother you.

Eyeing the scene from under the bridge’s overhang, the river you knew so well was blurred and obscured by the determination of the sky. Jumping at another jolt of lightning, you bit your lip at the thunder that roared again soon after.

Your house wasn’t too far, but you knew the cascade your road would become in such rain, the hill sending all water rushing to its home in the river. It was summer after all, and with any luck this would be a passing, though fierce, shower. Well, perhaps ‘shower’ was too light a term.

However, the impossible crescendo of the rain combined with the endless dark clouds that had invaded the sky gave you reason to doubt your initial hopes.

Though you had been sure every inch of you was wet, you became aware of cool water soaking into your shoes. Jumping back from the sensation, you looked to the ground. The river lapped higher up the bank as you watched, crawling over the mud and stones.

With a gulp, you inched back, but the room under the bridge was undeniably shrinking.

When the thunder bellowed, it bounced around your small hiding space. The rain showed no sign of ceasing.

It was clear the situation would not change the way you wanted, but in your indecision you glanced outside once more, as if to remind yourself the rain was still there.

Your eyes fell on something else instead.

Squinting, you stepped forwards, nearly slipping but not taking your eyes off the figure.

You weren’t imagining it. Someone else was out there, standing a little further along the bank. Perfectly still, as if they hadn’t noticed the storm at all.

You looked about wildly, but of course no one else was there to see it too. The person continued to stand, looking out over the growing waves in the river. The wind buffeted their dark curls, raking it back away from their face-

Water flooded over the top of your foot, icy droplets sliding inside your shoe. With a shriek, you hopped away, looking back at the river, offended.

With barely enough space for your remaining foot, you were forced out from the bridge’s shelter to escape the river’s advance.

Rain striking your face again, you turned towards the spot you had seen them. Already, you knew inside you who it was.

He had moved, and your eyes raced around the drenched riverbank until you caught sight of a black mop of hair between the rushes further away. The rushes that were steadily being submerged, water climbing up their lengths.

As you watched, the rushes swung wildly in the gusts, almost totally obscuring the movement of the person behind them. Towards the rising water.

The patch of rushes swayed and bucked, and they were gone.

“TAEHYUNG!!”

Your yell was almost instantly lost to the storm, but your feet were pounding forwards, sliding over the soaked grasses that were rapidly engulfed in mud.

You couldn’t see him – he had been right there, heading towards the river.

Not stopping, you raced after your friend. Of all the times to be at the river, now was not one. Ignore the fact that you were there too. You didn’t want the place where you forged your memories with Taehyung to be the place you also lost him-

Forcefully stopping that terrifying thought, you simply plunged onwards. Not flinching when cold river water splashed around your ankles, another boom shaking the heavens.

“TAEHYUNG!” you cried again, parting the rushes with your arms and bursting through them, only to be met with yet more emptiness. The tall leaves were reaching past your head now, their dancing peaks blocking your view as you fruitlessly splashed in circles, stumbling onwards in blind hope of finding your friend.

Water sucked and slopped against your waist, skirt becoming sodden and heavy.

Struggling to step again, your foot met a rock which tumbled sideways next second. Nothing to catch yourself on but the bendable reeds, you lost your footing, plummeting towards the water.

Lightning washed the nightmare in white. In that split second, bright eyes turned towards you.

Your head disappeared below the water.

Currents caused by the rain swelling the river tangled themselves around your legs, pulling you down. But not seconds later, they loosened their hold.

Water retreated from your face, replaced by the rain which almost felt like a comfort despite being just as relentless as before. Gasping in a breath, you blinked thick drops from the river out of your eyes.

Hands were hauling you up, gentle but powerful. Under your arms, they lifted you so you were left scrabbling to stand on the treacherous stones again. Elsewhere, the river still thrashed in its banks, rising more and more, but the reeds must have provided some shelter here. The water slid placidly around you, allowing you to be pulled to shore.

Wiping your eyes with the back of your hand, you finally rid yourself of the water blinding you. Looking back at you was Taehyung.

He had grown lately, standing just a little above your own height, and he looked down at you with intensity swimming in those dark eyes, cast into more shadow under the darkness imposed by the looming storm clouds.

Finally reaching the water’s edge, you walked after him, the hem of your skirt splattering torrents of water onto the ground. His clothes did not do the same, but you were too gripped by shivering to notice.

“What are you doing out?” he asked directly, one hand lifting to comb your saturated hair from your face. Cold moisture was replaced by warmth.

“What about you?” you fired back, though weakened as you stood shaking. “I-I saw you, in the river…”

He gulped visibly, grabbing your wrist softly but enough to lead you further up the bank. His breathing quickened, his manner fidgety as his eyes darted across the river, drawing his lips together.

“This is my home,” he said distractedly, “not yours. You should be up the hill.”

He started bundling you over the bridge. Already, heat was returning to you and your shivers subsiding. At the far side, you pushed back against his touch, bringing you both to a stop.

“Come with me,” you breathed.

“It’s rising,” Taehyung muttered, eyes on the river. You weren’t sure he was even aware he spoke.

“Come inside,” you insisted, your turn to pull on his wrist this time. Desperate to get him away from the writhing river, so much more menacing than you had ever seen it.

Whirling back to you, Taehyung withdrew from your grasp, suddenly intensely focussed back on you. Stepping back towards him, you tried to bring him with you again, but he didn’t reach for you.

“It isn’t safe. Please go.”

“Taehyung-“

“I’ll see you soon.”

Taking your hands firmly in his own, he looked at you with earnest eyes. You didn’t notice the rain still assaulting you both, too breathless from the realisation that he wouldn’t back down.

You bit your lip.

“You’ll be okay?”

“Yes, yes,” he gently pushed you away, “but these closest houses won’t be… you need to go- if I don’t…”

His voice trailed off, last cryptic words obscured in a tide of thunder that ripped through the sky.

Somehow, you trusted him. Even though you knew it was insanity to leave your friend out in this, you knew you believed him. And if he had to go, you knew you would see him the next time you came down to the river.

With a small nod, almost an affirmation to yourself, you turned around.

As you knew it would be, the road up the hill that greeted you was more of a river in itself by now. Running into the flowing stream, you felt the downpour heavier against your face the further you got from Taehyung.

A few paces drew you level with the riverside houses. A rising roar the moment you reached them had you fooled for a moment, thinking more thunder was stirring up. But the following crash of waves had you turning abruptly back to the river.

Behind you, where you had just left Taehyung standing, the river had transformed into an ugly, writhing mass, large waves plunging downstream like a fearsome serpent. It erupted from its banks, water murky and angrier than you had ever seen your peaceful stretch of river.

Brown wash swirled wildly with no regard to the banks that usually constrained it. A wave frayed with white crashed over the bridge, the path you had just taken lost to the insatiable currents.

You were frozen, shivers creeping back in as you found yourself unable to move under the rain.

Your feet were the only islands as water continued to rush past them, drawn to the growing beast below. The storm continued to fuel the flood, but miraculously, most water seemed to rush out towards the forest rather than rising further up the banks.

“Y/N!”

A desperate call of your name cut through the howling storm and roaring river. It came from behind you.

Finally tearing your eyes from what had become of your river, a blue grew clearer through the curtain of rain.

Your mother ran down the hill. Her hand reached for you, gesturing for you to come. Her hair rapidly flattened against her forehead with water, but she focussed only on you.

Finally, you could go home.

Splashing in the waterfall below your feet, you began to run back to her.

The river was still swollen, and you weren’t allowed on the bridge. You had to walk up to the bigger one by the market in order to cross.

Your father carefully led you as the track became wilder, the nearer to the forest you got. The mud showed no sign of drying, still eager to swallow up your uncertain steps.

Everyone in the town was keen to visit the shrines after the awful storm. They didn’t even need your wise woman’s advice to convince them of the necessity.

“You can place the fish,” your mother told you, handing you one of the baskets. “to show our respect to the river spirit.”

“And our reverence,” your father chimed in, “they’ve made clear their displeasure, we need to appease them again.”

They hardly needed to explain these things to you; you had visited the shrines with them since before you could remember. You watched your parents carefully place rice at the foot of the shrine and kneel, appearing deep in thought for a long moment.

As they drew back, you followed suit with the fish. But as you bent your head, you were unable to direct your thoughts to the river spirit. Instead, your mind spun back to Taehyung, standing on the riverbank before the flood. How was it that you felt no worry for him? Somehow, you felt sure the spirit had taken care of him, too.

You thanked it.

“Some may be displeased,” your mother was saying behind you, “but the river spirit saved our town from that anger. I heard that the forest was wrecked by the flood, trees torn up all along the river. But our houses were untouched.”

Taehyung hadn’t come today. That was okay, sometimes he didn’t.

You remembered the storm a few years ago, when you hadn’t seen him for a week. Every day, you had gone down to watch the water which turned back to its normal shade gradually, recovering from the rampage it had been on in the flood.

You remembered the day you realised he would always come back. After a walk to the shrine, taking in the now empty offering baskets, you had crossed back in the evening to find him waiting for you.

You remembered the spot where he had stood, the same place you left him before the waters had risen from the banks.

Now, lying on the grass, you let your eyes drift lazily to that spot on the other bank where you had found him, his eyes creasing in a gentle smile as you had gasped, running to him.

Drowsy, your eyes wandered, catching sight of a flicker in the sky. Perhaps you were dreaming already – there was a silvery ribbon-like dart flying between the golden clouds. It reminded you of the fish that darted in the water, the way a flash of light bounced off it in its swirling motions through the air.

It also awoke some brief memory in you, but it blurred in a haze with all your times with Taehyung. Something just out of reach…

You squinted against the brief dazzle of light, and when you focussed again, it had gone.

Yep, probably your imagination.

A smile settled your own face, thrown into shade by the dusty pink light of early sunset. Somehow, even lying beside the river felt like you were with Taehyung. This had been the setting of your friendship from the start, so long ago you could barely remember.

And though you had never figured out whose son he was, where he dwelled, you knew him better than anyone. His regard for the river, the way he would talk to the wind like an old friend. Every minutiae of those turbulent eyes, the way his hands would card through your hair…

“You’ll get cold sleeping out here.”

Roused by the voice, your eyes fluttered open. The fingertips running through your hair were real.

Slowly blinking, you took in those familiar eyes, dark as they always were. A gentle wind teased his flowing hair as he smiled at you, a soft chuckle coming from his throat as he saw you waking. His voice had grown deeper these past years.

He shifted backwards, hands leaving your head as he moved to rest beside you. Awkwardly sitting up, you stretched out a slight stiffness in your neck.

“I’m not cold,” you retorted, quite truthfully.

He raised an eyebrow, his lips quirking in what was a familiar smirk. With a shake of his head, he turned his eyes to the water. The sun was practically dipping below the treeline now, showing how long you had drifted for. Molten gold had replaced the blue water running between the riverbanks.

“You’d rather stay asleep and not see me, I get it,” he teased.

His laughter boomed as you rolled your eyes. Eyes in crescents, he flopped back to lean on his lanky arms. Better to look at the irked fondness on your face.

“Silly, why do you think I’m out here at all?” you huffed.

“Of course you love me,” he said matter-of-factly, almost keeping the smile out of his voice.

Not knowing quite what to say to that, you pushed down the odd feeling he had stirred up and turned to watch the river with him.

A shadowy breeze teased the rushes. Their ghostly shushing rose from silhouettes, only the glistening water catching the last sparks of sun, waves glittering like embers as they tripped downstream.

It occurred to you that you probably should be cold, having dozed off out here. The playful wisps of breeze that dragged through your hair weren’t exactly warm.

Still, you smiled at it. Before even turning your head, you knew what Taehyung’s thick waves would look like as they flowed in the wind, almost like water themselves. The same shiny hair as the young boy who found your boat all those years ago had.

“You are late,” you finally spoke.

There was never an agreement between you, no arrangements of your next meeting. But you enjoyed coming to the river with or without him, and you knew before long you would always see him again.

Today, you were thankful for the long summer evenings, even if they stretched less and less as summer wore on. It gave you and Taehyung some stolen time, while normally you would have to run home this late.

“They’re dumping fish back in the water at Jugeon,” came his reply.

The lower notes of his voice shone through, his tone sombre. The buttery light on his tanned skin threw his frown into deep shadow.

His gaze rested on the river, but was truly far away.

You were used to Taehyung’s thoughts coming from nowhere, but it still threw you. News from that far took a long time to arrive here. Gulping back questions of how he had travelled three towns in just a day, or whether he was from there, you simply asked, “why?”

“Trading. Prices. I don’t know,” he sighed deeply, “it’s not right. I… The river gave them as food for people, and all it gets is death in return.”

Biting your lip, you turned your gaze from Taehyung to the water. What he told you didn’t sit right with you either. For what good reason would you risk displeasing the spirits like that, for one thing?

“We can take care of the river.”

And maybe it was childish, to believe you could make such a promise. But when Taehyung lay back in the grass by your side, he smiled at you.

Taehyung still liked to climb trees.

As he hung from a branch, calling for you to catch him if he jumped down, you could so vividly see the gleeful child you had played with years ago. The boxy smile between round cheeks, the mischievous glint in his dark eyes as you laughed at him.

Only a second later, all you saw was your inevitable doom, as what was not a small child anymore but a nearly-grown man plummeted towards you.

Somewhere among your scrambled reflexes, you stumbled backwards, while holding your arms out in some misguided hope of actually catching him. And you screamed.

Your yell choked off as you bumped against the ground, the forest floor handily having tripped you up. Air whooshed from your lungs, and then time slowed down.

You were hardly conscious of taking another breath. Where you had fallen, Taehyung had landed over you. Clearly, his plan to scare you had paid off, and he was perfectly capable of getting down by himself all along.

Feet either side of your own, he braced himself with one arm beside your head. His face hovering above yours was all you could focus on.

His crooked grin only grew at the sight of your startled state.

With a movement all too sudden for the illusion you seemed to be under, he pushed himself away to sit back on his haunches. Forcing your limbs into action, you stiffly sat up.

“You alright?” he asked, smile dimming fractionally.

Your mouth was strangely dry. You swallowed.

“Don’t do that,” you finally laughed, breathy and nervous. It was all it took to put him at ease, smile back to its full glory and bubbling over into a laugh.

“Should have seen your face,” he teased, leaning across to help you up.

It was so easy to play with him. The teasing roll of your eyes and the faux annoyance as you muttered playful retorts came so easily; it was almost enough for you to ignore the touch of his skin as you accepted his hand up.

Side by side now, you walked slowly between the trees. Feet scuffling through the carpet of leaves the forest laid down each autumn, you occasionally brushed shoulders with Taehyung, laughter intertwining in the air.

The steady tinkle of trickling water told you you had nearly made your way back to the river.

A small stream hurried through the undergrowth over stones and between drooping grass. Hopping over first, Taehyung turned to give you his hand, which you held lightly as you followed him across.

As you returned to the river, the sky grew greyer and greyer. There was too much cloud today for the sunset to be anything but a slow retreat into darkness.

Taehyung was laughing at a joke you made when the willow tree came in sight. The joyous sound you loved to hear was quickly replaced by the shushing of the trees boughs. Tae sighed, promptly calling an end to the light-hearted atmosphere.

His feet slowed, dragging in the dying leaves.

“You should get back,” he turned his eyes to where the moon would be, though all that could be seen of her light was a faint white bleeding through the mist, “the mercenaries will be out before long.”

You never wanted to leave. But these days, it wasn’t as if you could stay, hang off his arm and beg for one more game.

You were grown, and you very well knew he was right. Tensions had been escalating, your parents told you – with whom you didn’t know – but now the men of your town would wander around after dark with their swords at their hips.

Even the words past his lips saw Taehyung’s smile vanish.

Something was hurting him lately. After all these years, there was nothing in his heart that you couldn’t read through his face, his actions. If only you knew what caused it.

It was probably true that your face betrayed the same things. Stepping away, you looked at each other. You felt no need to smile, wave and pretend. You just looked.

Then you walked away, parting the willow and letting the leaves swing behind you, Taehyung obscured behind their curtain.

Lamps flickered on in the houses you walked past up the hill. The smell of rice and laughter drifted from them. A bolt sliding shut made a grating noise as you turned the corner. The eldest son at the end of the road was stepping out into the evening, weapon unmistakeably sheathed at his side.

Tearing your eyes away, you slipped into your own house.

The familiar sight of your mother’s back greeted you. She was working on something.

Only vaguely curious, you rounded the room to greet her. Then you saw it.

The dim yellow of the lamps glinted off the fabric, no doubt silk. Deep and jewel-blue, it lay in glistening folds across her lap while her needle picked out fine gold among the other embroidery already lacing the garment.

It took her a moment to look up from her work, but she caught your awed expression.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” she smiled.

You nodded, but were still puzzled. Where on earth had she got something like this?

“What is it?”

“It’s a wedding gown, dear.”

You blinked.

“A wedding gown?”

“Of course we’re starting to think of when you should marry, you are at the age. We’ve begun speaking about a good match.”

Your eyes slid down from your mother’s peaceful face. Now, the fabric looked heavy, light glaring too bright against its oppressive dark colour. The embroidery was tacky, too much crammed in. Too delicate, too heavy.

Too much.

“A good match?” you echoed, hollow.

Shifting, your mother placed the funeral robes to one side. Stood, walked towards you.

You didn’t look at her face but her hands were real where they held your own. Soft.

“You know we would rather keep you for longer,” she was joking. Pinching your cheek. “But with all that’s going on, it should be done sooner.”

“What does all that have to do with me? Why marry among the fighting?”

“Because it is not here yet,” she assured, “and now is the time to gain prosperity. Make a home, a family. Your father is not needed as much for his skills when all that is needed are weapons. We just want what’s best for you.”

You swallowed hard. Lifted your gaze to your mother’s. Steadfast, they glistened but any tears remained unshed. Her mouth curved into a thin smile. Her hands trembled.

“And this is… what’s best?” you spoke weakly.

Pushing her lips together, trying to keep the smile on, she nodded.

You waited until the last lamp died. Held your breath as your parents’ steps padded through the house. Until they didn’t anymore.

Poking your head around the door, tiptoeing to the end of the hall, felt almost childlike, if it wasn’t for the lack of a smile on your face. No bubbling nerves as you sat bolt straight on your bed, waiting. No attempts to hide mischievous laughter. Only a fearful intent as you dropped quietly through the window and eyed your dark road for mercenaries.

All the lamps were out. Moonlight barely filtered through the mist which dampened the senses, blurred the hill you knew by heart.

Even the river seemed silenced tonight.

Only hours ago you had seen Taehyung. It was nothing more than blind hope that brought you back here so soon. At a loss, all you could think to do was go to him.

The bridge was encased in the thickest mist yet. It was as if strands blown down the river had snagged, cocooning it.

Glancing quickly around at the long open road beside the river, you stepped into the dense fog. You practically knew every flagstone on this bridge by touch.

It sloped up, and down, guiding you to the bank where the fog was little better. You kept walking.

At first sight of the dark figure through the mist, you tensed up. But it was hardly long enough to put a falter in your step, your body recognising Taehyung’s silhouette before your mind could catch up.

The eerie coating of cloud drifted away as you neared, revealing him under the moonlight.

He faced the water, the back of his head thick with curls picked out by the moon. Without a sound from you, he turned. Once more, you knew you reflected perfectly the sad look in his eyes. Silvery light danced there, but more striking was the darkness rippling underneath, unfathomable.

No words needed for now, you moved to sit by his side. The river dragged on.

“Aren’t you going to tell me it’s late?”

A breath of his laugh fell dead in the mist.

“Why should I? You’re well aware, but here you are.”

Silence, for a moment.

“So are you,” you tried weakly to tease him. A delay to the inevitable, a leaf to be washed away in the current.

He let a kind silence settle. The river trudged on and the mist huddled, shelter for your secrets.

You took a breath.

“They want me to marry.”

Speaking it to the water was almost unbearable. The words out loud were too real. Too nervous to turn, to see Taehyung’s reaction, you missed the way he stiffened at your revelation, busy instead grappling with the heavy, nauseous feeling in your stomach.

“Now’s a good time. Maybe the only time.”

Taehyung’s response was measured. Low, like it would slip from his control if he didn’t push it down

“I hadn’t really thought about it.”

Courageous enough at last, you looked at him. Taehyung’s hands gripped the riverbank, shoulders taught.

“Who?”

You were right – his voice did slip, and it was raw and desperate. He was trying so hard to look at the water, but couldn’t stop himself from slowly turning to face you too.

“I hadn’t really thought about it– ” you repeated “– only, now I have, I realised… I never wanted to marry anyone else.”

Lips hanging slightly open, his face slackened imperceptibly as your words sunk in. His hand had moved, relinquished his grip on the grass. He was leaning towards you, as if the earth was tipping you together. Neither were you immune to the magnetic pull of his eyes, and maybe it was the mist that blurred your surroundings, leaving nothing but him in focus.

“Can’t we?” you breathed, words lighter than the mist itself.

You watched his eyes and already knew the answer.

The way his gaze deepened, dragging away from your own and tracking across your face, down… Your eyes, too, were drawn to his lips. They closed gently, and he swallowed, adam’s apple bobbing. And your gazes lifted as one, fixed on the other.

You knew what it meant, knew his actions even before he moved. The way he looked at you…

Like he was memorising it for the last time.

Shoulders dropping, he moved away. Taking back the uncharted territory that had been breached moments ago.

Somehow, it didn’t surprise you. There must be reason for his hiding, the fact no one else in the town knew him, or even saw him. Your parents already disapproved of you continuing to spend time alone with a man, but someone so hidden was yet more cause for worry.

But if this was to signal the end, you had to know.

“Why?”

To your surprise, he stood. At the first few paces away towards the fog, panic charged through you.

“Taehyung!” you pleaded, jumping up to follow him, “Taehyung, please-”

A cold impact on your cheek told you you were crying. Just as the second made a path down your skin, accompanied by a shuddering breath, Taehyung turned. His eyes held yours steadily, even as tears welled and spilled from your own.

Something in his intense gaze halted all protests on your lips. Determination.

He had stopped, as had you. Heart seized with dread, you could only watch. Was he saying goodbye?

Your fears increased as he began to be engulfed by the mist. But wait- he wasn’t moving backwards. The mist was creeping forwards, its tendrils obscuring him partially, a veil. His eyes shone through.

How they shone, you suddenly realised you could not explain. The moonlight was not penetrating this fog.

Stunned, you stayed transfixed. Something around Taehyung seemed to change, shift, his clothes billowing in the non-existent wind until they grew. Large, silvery and frayed, they were ruffled by a breeze, except…

They were not threads of clothes but whiskers of a dragon. A dragon with dark hair along its back, the same flowing curls forming a mane around its head.

Taehyung’s eyes had not moved.

Gaping, you could not speak. The dragon was huge, serpentine and poised on legs with large talons, tail stirring up the mist behind it… behind him.

You didn’t need to be told that this was Taehyung. Beyond the fact you had just seen him transform, his eyes were the same. And they betrayed the same sadness now as the boy you had just whispered your confession to.

One step. Another. You crossed to him where he stood, waiting.

Tentatively, you held a hand up. Hovered just inches from his face. For a breath, you looked at each other, before he gracefully dipped his head to meet your palm.

He had to bow to come to your level, but you pressed your forehead against him, between his eyes. His snout and jaws, which must hold such power, rested placidly against you.

Your eyes shut as you held him close, and after several moments, you felt arms circle you again. It was Taehyung as you knew him, his forehead touching your own and those curls tumbling down to his eyes.

“You’re not meant for my world,” you murmured.

Taehyung held you closer at that, one hand lifting to your head. You felt the vibrations as he spoke next.

“We were meant for each other’s,” he pledged. “But… not this way. With-with marriage, and this war…”

The hands that gripped you trembled.

Pulling back, you hurriedly brought your hands to cup his cheeks. He tried to look down, but he could never hide the cracks coming through.

“Tae…” you pleaded as his breaths grew ragged. Your thumbs smoothed along the ridge of his cheeks as a tear fell.

He cast his gaze then back over the river, water the same deep black as his eyes. It was perfectly still, shrouded in mist and lazy moonlight. Unshed tears swam in his eyes.

“This is my river…”

He chewed the inside of his cheek for a second. Still looped around your back, his arms held you close, where you could pick up on his every move. Your chest ached with yearning, to bring him to you even when he was physically so near…

The night revolved around his every word as he continued.

“I haven’t been here that long… but it’s mine, and I belong to it. There are older dragons who are just as angry, and they set fire to the ships. But it’s my river, and I never let anyone die here. I-I can lay people and creatures to rest when they should, but I never let anyone drown… be killed.

“But now… there’s too many. The fighting is coming closer, and there are more ships. I can’t” –his voice cracked– “I can’t save them all.”

All you could do was hold him tightly as he let himself finally fall into your embrace. Your chest felt tight just hearing his pain, muffled cries and whimpers against you as you carefully lowered you both back to the ground.

“You don’t have to, Tae,” you assured him quietly, not really sure if he heard. You rubbed his back and continued your mutterings, “this is the humans’ war, not yours. You’re doing all you can. But you have me. I won’t leave you.”

At some point, Taehyung’s crying and your whispers had faded, leaving the two of you slumped against each other, tangled up with your head lying on top of his as you looked out across the water.

“You’re beautiful,” you whispered, “all of you. And your river…”

It felt so right that you had always had such a connection with this water, its banks and its bridge. It felt like an old friend. Perhaps it was, after all.

Tae sniffed, swiped at his watery eyes.

“You always came back,” he said, voice a little gruff.

Squeezing him lightly, a sad smile graced your lips as you stared across your river.

“Of course,” your replied, “and I always will. I promise.”

“Promise,” he echoed.

Shifting in your embrace, he moved to untangle the two of you somewhat. Just your shoulders leaned against each other. Sighing, you gazed over his tanned skin in the moonlight, tear tracks fading already.

“Let me help you. You look after the river, the town… and me.”

His hand raised, cupping the side of your face with elegant fingers that trailed through your hair.

There was that look again.

“I always want to help you.”

“So let me take care of you too,” you insisted, your own fingers curling around his own, capturing his hand where it hovered beside your face. “You don’t have to do it alone.”

Those promises rang in your ears.

Your parents’ backs grew smaller as you watched their journey downhill from the window. Bags clutched at their shoulders as they headed for the port.

“Look after them,” you muttered, eyes fixed on the glimmer of river you could see from here.

In your hand lay a pendant your father had pressed into your hands before you left. It was the one he had made for your birthday, a lifetime ago, when you thought you had imagined the dragon snaking through the sky.

Its blue glaze that swirled along the bottom always reminded you of your river, your safe place. Your Taehyung.

Fastening it around your neck, you turned away from the window. Walked through your house without much aim.

What had started, months, even years ago as hints of unrest, trouble with shipments and stories of quarrels brought back with the fishermen, had only grown.

You had grown used to seeing convoys going past the village, horses and armour and weapons glinting hungrily. Your own townsmen had begun patrols, but still the clash of swords was rare.

But still, nothing would stop it. Someone far away, whose name you would never know, wanted something. Wanted your peace, wanted your river.

And now the next town was on fire.

That morning, you had awoken to shouting, and smoke billowing over the hills. Strangers had run into your town, clothes charred and clutching pouches. Swarmed into boats or knelt crying at the corners.

They were coming up the river. Your parents had wasted no time.

Chests lay open, fabrics spilling from them, all but the essential clothes left behind. Cascading from one, its folds pooling on the floor, was the deep blue wedding gown. Forgotten like some common rag.

Stepping over it, you came to stand at your doorway. The road was barren.

You had sworn to stay with Taehyung nearly two months ago, but you could remember every word. Every utterance that you knew kept you tied to this place. Still, never were you tempted to take it back.

You stepped out, made your way to the river. But you had no bags like the others, and weren’t travelling to the bigger bridge where boats were fleeing. Descending the nearest bank, your feet were steady.

Moving past the rushes, standing tall as ever, you nestled yourself among the willow’s hanging branches.

The boats left. One by one, you watched them slink away until they were obscured by the forest, carried round the turn. You could almost imagine it was the fishermen going out to sea, that they would be back around that meander before two sunsets.

But the boats were crammed with people, leaning over the sides to catch a last glimpse of their town.

The ripples faded from their wake. The sun was making its curtain call when Taehyung came behind you.

“It’s late.”

His arms curled around your waist, cheek pressing against the side of your head.

“Is it too late?” you replied.

“They’re wise to leave,” he said.

But neither of you could.

You walked, slow through the forest. The sun was paling, watery rays piercing the canopy as you moved beneath it. What else was there to do?

The town would only be occupied by mercenaries and cavalry sent by the city. But you had no wish to be there, when you could be with Taehyung. Passing the stream that ran without fail, the willow you had swung from as youngsters, the outcrop where Tae had dragged you to slide along the frozen winter river. The countless trees you had scaled, and fallen from, together.

Though the memories were nothing but ghosts, and though you waited for some inevitable shattering of the stillness, you found you had never shaken that five-year-old eagerness to find your friend by the river to play.

As always seemed to happen, you settled on a bank. Maybe the laughter was a little stifled today, but the air was never free of it when you were together.

A lull came.

“Thank you.”

Taehyung’s voice had shifted, suddenly more bashful that you blinked in surprise.

“Tae?”

The eyes that met yours were creased in a smile. Biting his lip, he tried to keep it in check, as if embarrassed to smile too brightly at a time like this.

“Thank you for staying,” he beamed.

Then he kissed you.

His soft lips against yours sent you soaring instantly. The river faded away, only the cool light bathing your eyelids as they slid shut, feeling the ecstasy of the kiss.

Unhurried, his lips moved against your own, creating sparks like fireflies that spread through your limbs. Fingertips grazed your jaw, one last savouring motion before you slowly pulled away. Awed, your eyes took a moment to flutter open.

Tae’s smile had softened, warm adoration pouring from his gaze. You must look the same.

After a breath, or maybe forever, his eyes flickered away. His hand rested by yours on the ground, but he withdrew it.

Still warm from his kiss, you blinked slowly, only now picking up on his faraway look. He sat up straighter.

A moment later, he blinked, staggered up reeling. From what, you could only guess as he turned breathlessly to you. Fumbling hands found yours.

“I’m sorry-” he panted, already distracted, looking past you, “I have to go-”

The wind picked up around you, swirling and pulling at you from every direction, only his hands anchoring you.

They slipped from yours. In front of you, Taehyung surrendered himself to the wind and transformed, the muscular dragon standing tall on the bank instead. Not a moment later, he pounced into the wind, a vigorous swish of his tail propelling him above the trees, leaving you behind.

You were left standing. Taking a deep breath, you let your hands fall back to your sides.

You turned back to the town.

The closer you came through the trees, the faster your feet scuffed through the undergrowth, stumbling in your hurry as you began to hear shouts. A faint undertone of metal colliding only grew louder.

The willow tree was the last remaining barrier. Hurrying towards it, you caught yourself on its trunk.

A bang rocked the skies, loud as thunder but it was over fast, deafening and cruel. Firing a bolt of fear through your chest.

Pushing aside the leafy curtain, you stared.

Orange glowed over the far end of town, beyond the larger bridge. Black was rising above it, harsh as it twisted into the sky. On that same bridge, men were collected at the bank, struggling to push back against other figures running along the bridge, silhouetted by the violent glow.

There were boats stacked up on the water, but you could not make out how many. You saw them rock as the river started to churn, angrily shaking the vessels of the intruders.

More shouts. Stepping out from your secluded place, hooves thundered closer as a rider yelled from behind a helmet. A small pack followed soon after, skidding around to dash upstream. Fleeing. Away from the heat now blazing at the top of your hill.

Were they attacking from that side too?

Your feet pounded up the bank, racing to the bottom of your road as the devastation encroached. Flames licked the rooftops, taunting orange and red as it devoured without care.

Gulping, you backed away to the little bridge. You should warn Taehyung – but where would he be? The skies, the water?

Hurrying to the side of the bridge, your hands gripped the stone as you leaned over recklessly, searching the waves beneath.

A sliver of light, caught by something darting underneath.

“They’re coming from the hill too!” you called.

The light stilled, then flashed away, melting into the depths.

Chest heaving, you stared at the spot for a moment longer before pulling yourself back. A glimpse back where you had come showed nothing more than a blur of raging light, leaving you totally unable to distinguish the streets you knew.

Unable to escape the rising dread, you clamped your mouth shut. Your feet backed away slowly, instinctively, but you couldn’t quite rip your horrified gaze from the scene.

Another roaring blast stole your attention. From the side of a boat a way upstream burst a ball of sparks. It plummeted into the wreckage that remained that side of the river. There was no saving it now.

One last painful glance, and you ran. The bridge taking you down to the other shore.

No sooner had your feet left the stone than another explosion rang out, more sparks exploding into the dying day. You felt its heat knock you back, along with the terrifying realisation that your only path of escape was up in flames too.

Changing course once more, you raced back up the bridge, but could not go further than halfway as both sides were equally ablaze.

Your eyes desperately travelled to the source of the fires and the violence, the cluster upriver. The wind bellowed furiously down its course, tugging the choppy surface until a wave grew, swiped at the fire nearest its banks like a cornered wildcat.

Another boom, sparks collided with the water and it fell, splashing uselessly on the scorched earth.

“Taehyung!” you cried. But your voice was lost to the fighting.

The waters raged, blue spikes of waves now edged in the gold of sunset. They could barely be distinguished from the jagged fire jeering at you as it surrounded your bridge.

Battering your face, clawing at your clothes, the wind whirled around you. Either that or the oppressive heat of the fire that loomed closer, the air shimmering with deadly intent wherever you looked.

The cracks bursting from inside the fire were hardly different to the cannons that had first given it life.

In panic, you clambered up, any hope of getting away. The stone under your feet held firm, as it had since you jumped off this ledge as a child.

Stilling, you took a shuddering breath.

Twisting your head, you looked down at the water. Dark, unlike the blinding fires. Cold, unlike this stifling war.

Home, like Taehyung.

You turned.

Lifting your eyes up, you stared down the river, searching for any sign of him. But it was just you and the stone beneath your feet, nothing in front to separate you from your fate.

“Taehyung!” you called.

And with all the trust in the world, you stepped.

The fiery wind was replaced, engulfed by the icy waters that thrashed around you, closed over your head. Empty water charged around you, buffeting your limbs and pushing you this way, and that.

Sinking, you rolled over in the current, falling…

Caught.

Indistinguishable at first from the limbs of the currents, two flows of water wrapped around you, holding you still at last. They grew stronger, solid in the water as Taehyung encased you, clutching you to his chest, your head tucked under his chin.

Wrapped in his arms, you were suspended in the water. Blinking in the flurry of the river around you, you caught sight of those curls, flowing like the water themselves.

The fire blazed above, red staining the surface. But here, resting against a firm chest and weightless as the water carried you, you were safe.

You closed your eyes.

Water no longer pressed in on you. Your skin was warm, not cold like you last remembered.

Experimentally moving one hand, you felt grass brushing against your fingers. You breathed in, the taste of flowers on the air.

It was light when you opened your eyes, but not the infernal glow you had just run from. Or perhaps more time had passed than you thought… you weren’t in your town anymore.

Sitting at last, you found yourself on a riverbank. At least, you thought it was. The only problem was that there was no river, only a dip in the land, filled with boulders that stretched through an otherwise green field. The grasses were lush green and bent in the peaceful wind.

Most puzzling was your lack of panic as you found yourself looking around at totally unfamiliar surroundings. The last thing you knew was being held safe in Taehyung’s arms.

A little way down the bank there was a round statue, a smiling face etched on the front.

The sky was a calm blue and stretched endlessly, littered with fluffy clouds. And something moving between them-

The dragon swirled closer through the great blue, dark curls flowing like water. As he touched down just a short distance away, you climbed to your feet.

Taehyung shed his dragon form and walked towards you through the grass.

“Taehyung!” you called, speeding up to jog over to him.

His eyes lifted, as welcoming as the arms he held out towards you. Rushing happily into them, you collided, uncaring about the impact as you buried your head in his shoulder and hugged his middle enthusiastically.

“Where are we?” you spoke, muffled, almost as an afterthought.

He breathed in slowly. His hands were grounding at your shoulders.

“I told you I would protect you.”

“You.. you brought me here?”

Pulling away from him, you took another look around. The arms still holding you loosened, but stayed there.

“Where… where is here? And the town…”

Following your gaze, Taehyung hummed thoughtfully. He pulled you closer as he watched the empty bed where a river should lie.

“I can feel my river from here – maybe I can take you back with me?”

Thank you for reading! Remember a comment goes a long way💜

You can check out the other stories from this collab here!!

Taglist: @aianloveseven​ @preciouschimine​ @un2-verse​ @taegularities​ 

#taehyung imagine #taehyung x reader #bts v imagine #kim taehyung imagines #kim taehyung imagine #kim taehyung scenario #taehyung au #taehyung fluff #taehyung fanfiction #bangtanarmynet #bts historical au #taehyung oneshot

[raethye]

Mortal Appetites

Mortal Appetites by raethye

A Pride and Prejudice and Zombies AU

Rating: Explicit

Pairing: Seokjin x Taehyung

Length: 98.8K, complete

Tags: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Kim Seokjin | Jin/Kim Taehyung | V, Kim Taehyung | V, Kim Seokjin | Jin, Park Jimin (BTS), Jeon Jungkook, Jung Hoseok | J-Hope, Kim Namjoon | RM, Min Yoongi | Suga, Huening Kai, Huening Bahiyyih, Huening Lea, Lee Hoseok | Wonho, Im Changkyun | I.M, Original Characters, Alternate Universe, Pride and Prejudice Fusion, Zombie Apocalypse, Regency, Adaptation, Minor Jeon Jungkook/Park Jimin, Other Ships Not Mentioned in Tags, Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, Slow Burn, Strangers to Lovers, Imprinting, Explicit Sexual Content, don't hate me purists, villain, no time like the apocalypse to fall in love, Family, Pack Dynamics, Pack Feels, Heavy Angst, Fluff, Feels, Smut, Top Kim Seokjin | Jin, Bottom Kim Taehyung | V

“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a zombie—once having consumed brains—must be in want of more brains.”

Full work: https://archiveofourown.org/works/41430663

Chapter 01: A Truth Universally Acknowledged

Chapter 02: The Tragedy of Netherfield Park

Chapter 03: If You See a Zombie, Slay a Zombie

Chapter 04: Rumors of a Most Peculiar Sort

Chapter 05: Netherfield Park Is Let Again

Chapter 06: Struck Dumb By an Angel

Chapter 07: It Happens Just Like That

Chapter 08: The Perfectly Tolerable Mr. Kim

Chapter 09: Of Fate and Featherstones

Chapter 10: A Figure Both Light and Pleasing

Chapter 11: An Invitation to Dine

Chapter 12: A Storm Without and Within

Chapter 13: The Art of Accomplishment

Chapter 14: The Heat of the Moment

Chapter 15: Laying the Undead to Rest

Chapter 16: The Massacre of Mrs. Beecham’s Home

Chapter 17: A Point of No Return

Chapter 18: In a Time of Need

Chapter 19: The Arrival of Parson Kim

Chapter 20: A Visit to Meryton

Chapter 21: A Penny for Your Thoughts

Chapter 22: Refuting an Old Acquaintance

Chapter 23: Haunted by the Past

Chapter 24: The Netherfield Ball

Chapter 25: Dancing Around the Issues

Chapter 26: The Complicated Steps of Love

Chapter 27: Shattering the Façade of Peace

Chapter 28: Friends With Zombies

Chapter 29: Caught In a Rut

Chapter 30: A Letter From the Crown

Chapter 31: Following One's Heart

Chapter 32: An Unseasonable Ball

Chapter 33: A Very Special Place

Chapter 34: After All This Time

Chapter 35: Welcome to Rosings Park

Chapter 36: Only Fools Dare to Hope

Chapter 37: Nothing is Fair in Love or War

Chapter 38: Time and Timing Are Not the Same Thing

Chapter 39: Mistakes and Misunderstandings

Chapter 40: The Siege of London

Chapter 41: No Welcome at Home

Chapter 42: Every Minute Counts

Chapter 43: The Devil Revealed

Chapter 44: In Between Life and Death

Chapter 45: Racing the Sun

Chapter 46: Coming Into the Light

Chapter 47: Hope for the Future

Chapter 48: Alpha and Omega

Chapter 49: Incandescently Happy

#my writing #bts #ao3 #romance #bts fanfic #fanfiction #taejin #seokjin #taehyung #Historical Fantasy #regency #film au #zombie au #pride and prejudice and zombies #pride and prejudice #bts smut #bts fic #written for a prompt #bts film out fest #ao3_raethye #taejinbingo

[framesandtulips]

Thank You For Coming vmin | explicit | one shot (13,613 words) explicit content | strangers to lovers | medical AU

Dr Kim Taehyung is a sex researcher. Park Jimin masturbates in front of him for science. 

read on Ao3 

#vmin au #vmin fanfic #vmin smut #vmin ao3 #bts ao3 #bts au #bts fanfic #bts smut #masters of sex au #historical au #exhibitionist jimin #doctor taehyung #jimin has a praise kink #taehyung's bisexual awakening

[jiminicus]

The Emperor's Flower

𝕮𝖍𝖆𝖕𝖙𝖊𝖗 3

ɢᴇɴʀᴇ: ꜰᴀɴᴛᴀꜱʏ 🔮

ᴘᴀɪʀɪɴɢ: ᴛᴀᴇʜʏɴɢ x ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

ᴡᴏʀᴅᴄᴏᴜɴᴛ: 5.4ᴋ

ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ: ᴘɢ

ꜱᴜᴍᴍᴀʀʏ: ᴛʀʏɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛᴇᴀʟ ᴀ ᴘʀᴏʜɪʙɪᴛᴇᴅ ꜰʟᴏᴡᴇʀ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴏꜱᴛ ɢᴜᴀʀᴅᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴏʟʏ ᴘʟᴀᴄᴇ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡʜᴏʟᴇ ᴋɪɴɢᴅᴏᴍ ɪꜱ ɴᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴀ ɢᴏᴏᴅ ɪᴅᴇᴀ. ʙᴜᴛ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ʜᴀᴘᴘᴇɴꜱ ᴡʜᴇɴ ᴛʜᴇ ɴᴇᴡ ʀᴜᴛʜʟᴇꜱꜱ ᴇᴍᴘᴇʀᴏʀ ʜᴀꜱ ᴀɴ ɪɴᴛᴇʀᴇꜱᴛɪɴɢ ᴅᴇᴀʟ ɪɴ ᴍɪɴᴅ?

One moment she was in the Imperial Palace, the beating heart of the kingdom. The buzz of life echoed throughout the palace and everywhere she looked there was some busy person running around, completing their tasks.

The other moment there was violence. She felt herself get dragged on the expensive carpet and her bag taken away from her. No matter how much she tried to explain or scream nobody wanted to hear. She couldn’t see where they were taking her from the tears running down her face.

Now she was alone. Somewhere in the cold dungeons of the palace, staring at the black stone wall. She only assumed it was black as that’s the only color one could see down here. Her tears had dried and only a few tearless sobs could be heard from her cell. Maybe it was a trap after all.

⚜

Someplace not far away from her, in the lavish Gardens of Fire, a young gentleman was just finishing his daily bath. He had to admit, it often felt awkward having so many people watch him swim. It wasn’t that he was embarrassed, the water was quite opaque after all. What bothered him was how pathetic they looked while “guarding” him. It’s not like they could save him from drowning. It was one of those rituals that have been in place for centuries.

It’s fair to say he hated traditions. He especially hated when those traditions attempted to control his life or intrude in his personal space. He couldn’t imagine how his ancestors took their baths in front of strangers. Ever since Taehyung was little his life has always been public. Everyone he spoke to, everyone he looked at, everyone he was close to, all of them were in the mouths of the people outside the walls. It infuriated him. When he became an Emperor he decided to live his life like he wanted to. His word was law after all.

“Looks like our little guest decided not to bless us with her presence today.” He said sitting on one of the rocks near the deep end that formed a comfortable bench. He let his head relax back onto the crystals outside the lake, chest exposed to the warm sun, glistening with droplets.

“She got what she wanted and ran away.” Seokjin, his right-hand man, spoke. “We can find her within a day if you wish, Your Majesty.”

Taehyung chuckled. “Do you think I am a good person, Jin?”

He didn’t expect this question. Even Seokjin, his childhood friend, never quite had the freedom to express himself however he wanted. Although he knew Taehyung would never hurt him, he had a feeling that a few wrong moves could cost him a lot. And with Taehyung, one could never know what a wrong move was.

“I believe you are a fair person, Your Majesty.” It wasn’t a lie.

“A good person would let her have the flower. A fair person would punish her for breaking her promise.” His body was completely relaxed. Head thrown back; eyes closed. Seokjin felt that the decision was on his shoulders.

“I think you should be a good person in that case.” He understood the pain the girl was going through. He had seen his own family die and he didn’t want anyone else to feel that pain.

When Taehyung didn’t reply, Seokjin felt the need to explain himself.

“You are a good Emperor. Be good to your people.”

Taehyung’s body tensed and he lifted his head.

“Why is a good Emperor hated then?” He stared at the distance without looking at his assistant.

“Because he is fair.” He completed his own sentence before Seokjin had the time to reply.

“Ungrateful people are the ones that I hate the most.” His eyes finally met Seokjin’s. “I was good. I broke the rules and gave her the flower. And what I get in return is ungratefulness.” He signaled to one of the guards to bring him his towel, slowly rising from the water, and wrapping it around his waist.

“Being good is weak. Being fair is what makes you respected, even if that means being cruel.” He finally said with his usual arrogance when being at eye level with Seokjin.

Seokjin only nodded when Taehyung passed by him.

“You have one day.” These were the last words he said before he headed for the palace.

⚜

Later that day, Seokjin got an unexpected visit from the headmistress in his personal study room.

“Good evening Your Honor. I hope I am not disturbing you at this time.” She made a little bow.

“Lady Aliya, is something wrong?” The Master lifted his head from the papers he was studying.

“We spotted an intruder today. They were trying to get to His Majesty, but luckily, they were detained quite easily.” She said with a proud look on her face.

“So what’s the issue?”

“We seized their bag and found… an Amaryllis inside. I am not aware of how they got their hands on it, but-” She tried to explain nervously.

“Was it a young lady?” Seokjin replied calmly, something the headmistress wasn’t expecting.

“Yes, Your Honor, a lady from the lower classes.”

“Where is she now?” He said getting up from his seat.

“We imprisoned her till we have your verdict, as per the procedure.” Her tone was calm and typical once more.

“Very well. You are free to go. I will take care of her.”

With that, the headmistress bowed once more and slowly headed to the door with the help of her cane. Before she could open it, the sound of Seokjin’s voice sounded once more.

“And next time, please let me know if anyone is looking for the Emperor before putting them in jail.”

⚜

Finding the girl was easier than expected, he had to admit. That night, when he was done with the rest of his work, he descended the stairs to the dungeons. Holding only a candlelight, it has hard to see far, but he could make the silhouette of a rather small girl, curled up in the corner of her cell. The guards told him that she had cried herself to sleep. She was probably cold and hungry, dirty and bruised. How was this fair?

It was fair for her to be there; she came in uninvited to the palace. And it was fair for her to be punished; she didn’t come to meet the Emperor. But in all that… she had no blame. He often didn’t understand fairness.

He didn’t really have a plan, but he knew he wanted to help the girl.

“Tomorrow morning, I want her clean and well fed. I will wait for her in the East Gardens.”

⚜

In the morning she woke up with a pounding headache and an overwhelming feeling of anguish. It took her some time to understand where she was and remember what happened yesterday. Just as she was realizing her situation and tears were about to flow again from her cheeks, a guard opened the cell and ordered her to get out.

The guard didn’t say anything besides a simple “follow me”. Her bones and bruised legs hurt as they ascended the endless stairs of the dungeon. Once they reached the top, and the door opened, she was met with the bright sunrays of the windows around the corridor. The setting here was so different than the one underground. The ruby red walls were decorated with black wall sculptures of phoenixes, embellished with gold flames. The windows had black frames in the shape of intricate swirls. But clearly, the showstopper was the domed gold ceiling, adorned with giant paintings of historical scenes.

She hadn’t realized she was holding her breath until the guard grabbed her arm, pulling her to move with him and she let out a gasp. She might have been impressed by the other corridor, but this one overshadowed it. In this beauty, she had forgotten about all her pains and troubles.

They soon reached another door which lead to an area with sandstone walls. The guard spoke with one of the maids and she instructed Erin to follow her to a small room. The maid took Erin’s clothes and gave her a bathrobe and wooden sandals to wear. It appeared that this was where they took baths. Exiting, they entered the outdoor area where there was a big oblong pool filled with hot water. Along the far side of the pool, there were statues of deities acting as fountains and pouring water. Men and women enjoyed their time both in and around the pool, on the grass.

“It’s only for the noble. You can wash here.” The maid informed her, stopping in front of a wooden door. Erin entered and locked the door behind her. It was a small room with a bench and two buckets of water. The only light came from the small windows placed on the very top of the walls. It didn’t look much different than the one they had at home. They treated their prisoners well.

When she was finished, she exited, and the maid took her to another room where she dressed herself and groomed her hair. The dress had really been ruined. It was dirty and dusty from sleeping on the floor all night. It was also torn in a few places. When she put it on herself, she no longer recognized its previous beauty. Not that she cared right now. This was probably the last dress she was going to wear.

She was lost in thoughts as they exited the baths. Everything happened too fast. Yesterday everything was wonderful. Her mother was saved, and she could see their lives going back to normal. Today, she is a prisoner of the palace, and she didn’t know if she would be able to see her family again. Her mother must be so worried. Erin never spent the night away from home.

"Have a seat with us." Said one of the maids. They were now in some sort of a lunchroom. There were about twenty long tables placed on both sides of the room, forming a corridor in the middle. Erin took a seat on one of the chairs. Around her, there were people dressed like maids which were eating quietly.

There was a lot of food on the table. Pastries, eggs, bread, fruits, and even sliced meats. She didn’t doubt they were eating well in the palace. She wondered if all this food was for the dozen people seated at the table. She got a slice of bread along with some ham and an egg. This was the portion they were allowed at home. The maids must work hard because most of them had twice or three times as much food on their plates. Why was she eating with them in the first place?

People kept sitting and standing up from the table. Quiet gossip could be heard in the room.

“We either made a big mistake or you made a big mistake.” A ginger girl with light blue eyes sat across her. She recognized it was the maid that took her into the palace yesterday. She had a kind smile on her face.

“What do you mean?” Erin asked in worry.

“Well… the headmistress informed me this morning that Master Seokjin wanted to meet you in private." She stated as she started eating her tart.

“Who is Master Seokjin?” Erin replied, wanting to know more.

"His Honor is the second most important person in the Empire. He is in charge of pretty much everything His Majesty doesn't want to be in charge… Something like his right-hand man." She took a break to take one more bite and then continued. “You should watch how you talk with him…”

“We need to go.” The maid that was taking care of her all morning interrupted and stood up from the table. Erin immediately followed and started gathering her used plates.

“Just be polite and ask for forgiveness if anything happens.” The ginger girl said at last before Erin was back in the corridor of the maids. After some more turns and corridors, which Erin didn’t have enough time to stare at, they found themselves outside.

More gardens. From the outside, this place didn't look like it had one garden, let alone three. While the Imperial ones looked more like a little jungle, and the ones on the palace’s perimeter were very well organized with selected flowers, these ones had a lot of trees and bushes. As they walked around, she could spot through the gaps, hidden places with statues and enclosed areas of flowers. There was a wide central path and then smaller mazelike bushes that she assumed led to these secret places. She tried to follow the maid closely, so she didn’t get lost as they entered one of the openings in the bushes. It seemed sketchy that the Emperor’s best man wanted to meet her in a place this secluded.

She tried to remember the turns they took, but it was simply impossible. Soon they reached a small area that hosted a circular pavilion surrounded by blooming flowers that acted as a gateway to another part of the gardens.

“His Honor should be waiting for you.” The maid said as she signaled towards the entrance.

Erin cautiously went inside the pavilion. She could hear voices and the sound of flames. Soon in front of her eyes, she could make the circular shape of a traditional fighting ring, laid with black stones and surrounded by a fire dissipating spell. Having her guard up, she exited the pavilion.

Contrary to her beliefs, nobody attacked her. She looked around and saw five rings spread throughout the square. Most of them were occupied by adolescent children practicing their spells or dueling each other.

She headed for the group of adults talking in one of the corners. Passing next to the rings was quite scary. One could feel the burn of the fire on their skin from the proximity. She was glad the protective rings existed and didn't allow the fire to escape the ring. Even though she had those powers herself, she had to admit having fire directed toward her wasn't something she was used to.

Seokjin noticed her uneasy presence and left the group of teachers and coaches.

“Want to duel too?" He said as he stood beside her and made her jump in surprise.

“No… thank you. I was never the best fighter.” She admitted, hoping he would feel bad for her and not challenge her.

“The children are young, I am sure you can take on one.” He insisted, pointing at one of the girls. Erin looked at a girl that couldn't have been more than twelve, producing a fireball about twice her size. She was certain that she hadn’t produced a fireball this big in her whole life.

“She looks quite skilled… I haven’t practiced ever since I graduated.” She looked around for someone to help her escape the duel.

“These girls are the best of the best in the Royal School. They are training to become part of the Royal Guard. Half of them are already masters of the element.”

“That doesn’t make my case better I guess.” She laughed bitterly.

“I don’t think your case can get much worse.” He said turning to face her. “Can you remind me of your name?”

“It’s Erin.” She said avoiding eye contact.

"Well, Erin… I am supposed to be on the hunt for you right now with these girls. His Majesty wasn’t very pleased with you not showing up yesterday.”

“I did show up.” She interrupted, raising her voice. She did everything she could to make things right and instead got thrown into jail. She had every right to be angry.

“Frankly, you didn’t show up. You tried to.” He said trying to keep his tone calm, but getting irritated by her attitude. “And that means nothing here. This isn’t your village where you are friends with everyone, and everyone is willing to help you. Here you are alone. And for most people behind these walls, you are a threat. Even the lowest servant here is of noble blood. They come here in hope of catching the Emperor’s attention and bringing honor to their families. You, on the other hand, are a village girl who sneaked in, talked to the Emperor, was allowed to take one of his sacred flowers, and is not only alive, but invited back. Your presence threatens the core structure of this court.” He said sharply.

“All I want is to help my family. I threaten no one.” Erin replied looking at the ground.

“I am saying this to warn you. I used to be a village boy too. You kind of remind me of myself.” He made a small pause, his voice was now softer. "Keep your head on your shoulders. I will arrange for you to meet His Majesty today if he is willing to.”

“I appreciate your help. I just… need to go back to my village. They probably think something bad happened to me.” She was tired of all the drama and troubles. She really wanted to be at home right now.

“Miss one more meeting and I will be coming to your village with these girls looking for you.” He said in a threatening tone as he turned around and walked away. His change of attitude was scary. But not as scary as the thought of facing one of the little girls.

⚜

Through the grand corridors of the south wing of the palace, the Emperor and his assistant, the Master of the court, were taking their typical daily walk from the Emperor’s apartments to the chamber of the council of ministers, in the east wing. The walk usually took a little less than half an hour and it gave the two the opportunity to talk about the latest court matters. On many days, due to their tight schedules, it was the only time the two could talk like friends. Today’s conversation was mostly occupied by boring political matters and gossip about the cheating wife of the Minister of the Arts.

“I can’t blame her, I am sure at this age he isn’t doing great at pleasing her.” Taehyung said laughing, as he thought of the seventy-two-year-old minister and his forty-something-year-old wife.

“I don’t know how well he pleases her, but I think I have something that would please you.” Seokjin implied in a flirty tone.

“Oh, I would love to have you please me.” Taehyung continued the joke, winking at the man walking next to him. It was a weird dynamic they had going on, but they sure both enjoyed it.

Seokjin pulled out a crumbled flower from the inside of his coat.

“Hope that’s enough.”

Taehyung took the flower in his hands, gently caressing the petals which were barely holding onto the stem. A sense of sadness and sorrow washed over him.

"Did you find her?" His tone now did not have a hint of lightness in it.

“The headmistress notified me of an intruder. She tried entering the palace and was detained.”

“What does that mean, Jin?” His voice was ice cold.

“She actually tried making it yesterday,” Taehyung’s eyes softened a bit. “but it seems that the maids didn’t believe her.”

“And who are the maids to judge who can make it into the palace? Why weren’t you notified?” This was a major concern for him. It shouldn’t be in the servant’s hands to dispense justice.

“It’s not often that we have guests of her… origin. I have trust in the people working here.” Seokjin stated, trying to calm his friend.

“Are your trusted people still keeping her warm and cared for underground?” Taehyung replied in a sarcastic tone.

“Of course not. As soon as I was made aware, I ordered for her to be released. She is resting somewhere in the gardens right now.” Seokjin had ordered the maid taking care of Erin to show her around the gardens and feed her throughout the day. Little did he know that she was actually helping one of the other maids with the gardenwork and eating in the maid’s lunchroom. “I thought you would still like to meet her.”

“I guess it’s the only appropriate way to apologize to our guest.” Taehyung said, returning to his light self.

“I know you for some time, Tae. Making deals you win nothing out of is not something you do. What’s the motive?” Seokjin tried pushing.

"Oh, nothing. I just feel that I need to personally apologize to our guest. Maybe we can have lunch together." Taehyung tried escaping the question but that didn't sit well with Jin, who was patiently waiting for the Emperor to continue.

“I will be lunching in the small dining room today. Please let the lady know I will be expecting her.” He said to fill in the silence.

“Just you and her?” Seokjin asked puzzled.

"You can join too, if you are that jealous." Taehyung said in a humorous tone, as he entered the chamber of ministers, leaving Seokjin behind.

⚜

After the meeting, Seokjin informed the headmistress about the lunch and ordered her to personally make sure the guest was appropriately educated on the dining etiquette. It was important to be proper in front of the Emperor. However, when Erin was brought to her, she quickly realized she had to deal with a much more obvious problem than which spoon one had to use.

She found a girl that looked more like a peasant than a guest at the palace.

“Bring me five more girls.” Was the first thing the headmistress said, after taking a seat on one of the chairs, trying to stabilize her blood pressure. Thirty minutes to turn a peasant into a court lady was going to be a challenge even for someone with her experience.

The lunching table she had prepared, was soon turned into a beauty table and a bunch of maids flooded the room. Erin’s hair was brushed and styled half up, and her cheeks were blushed with rose dust, all the while the maids were trying to find an appropriate dress to substitute the one she was wearing. Erin didn’t get to enjoy any of the pampering though because the headmistress was giving her a lecture the whole time about the customs in the palace and how unacceptable her appearance was.

Just ten minutes before the lunch, when the headmistress thought she would have to bear the shame of sending a girl to the Emperor with rags, one of the tailors found a dress that could fit her proportions. It was a red royal gown made from light fabrics that was meant to wrap around an underdress and give it a flowy look. It was perfect in that it didn’t require special fitting for it to sit properly and the maids quickly put it on top of Erin’s old underdress, which somehow escaped from the majority of the abuse. The overdress covered all of the bottom part, where the underdress was damaged, allowing the old dress to peak a little just bit at her chest.

Only when everything worked perfectly and the last piece of fabric was fastened, the headmistress allowed herself to breathe normally. It was beautiful.

From there, it was a just walk along some of the prettiest hallways one could see in the whole empire. Statues, paintings, and a lot of gold and rubies decorated their path. Soon they stood in front of a grand door with the Emperor’s emblem on it. Only the headmistress and the Emperor’s guest were allowed to enter.

As the doors opened, they revealed a big area with a massive curved staircase inside. Immediately one’s eyes were drawn to the glass dome that covered the space, and the luscious paintings on the walls supporting it. From the dome, a chandelier made from red and pink crystals hung, making the light refract across the room, leaving rainbow specs on the surfaces it touched. As they entered deeper into the room, Erin noticed that the two walls on her sides were filled with books and there was a small sitting area in front of each one.

“This must be his library.” She thought to herself. As much as she didn’t want to, she had to draw her eyes away from the walls and ceiling as they climbed the stairs. Being extra careful not to slip, she almost didn’t notice the view from the large windows in front of her. Before her, stood the Imperial Gardens. They were even more beautiful from above as one could see how the vegetation wrapped and developed around the Grand Lake of Fire. She took her time to study it, but then she heard the cane of the headmistress knocking on the top stair, giving her a sign to continue her ascend.

She had one last chance to look at the majestic room from above as they walked along the balcony on the second floor.

"Stop staring." The middle-aged woman said in a sharp whisper, as she stopped in front of a door.

“His Majesty should be either be inside or he would join you shortly after.” She continued whispering. “Don’t look around, don’t stare at the ceiling, and most importantly be polite and don’t mess up. You are allowed to speak to him as long as he initiates the conversation.” She said looking directly in her eyes, with her icy blue ones. A sudden sense of nervousness overtook her as she realized the seriousness of the situation.

“Try not to get in trouble. Don’t look around. Don’t speak unless spoken to.”

She kept repeating in her mind as the doors opened and she entered a rather small room with a table in the middle.

“Try not to get in trouble. Don’t look around. Don’t speak unless spoken to.”

Even though her eyes were glued to the floor, she noticed a person sitting on one of the ends, which she assumed was the Emperor, and she headed for the other end.

“Try not to get in trouble. Don’t look around. Don’t speak unless spoken to.”

As she was about to pull her chair with shaking hands, a maid came rushing to pull it for her. And then it hit her. She messed up. She forgot to bow.

Taehyung carefully watched the frozen young lady enter the room and walk to the chair completely ignoring his presence. He found amusing how oblivious she was to court culture. He saw very clearly the moment she became aware of what she just did, or rather, what she didn’t do. She tried to make a small bow as her chair was being pulled, almost sitting in it as she remembered she first needed permission and frantically stood up again. He found it quite entertaining.

“Please take a seat.” He said with a smile, trying to save her from more uncomfortable situations.

Erin quickly sank into the chair and glued her eyes to the plate in front of her. She couldn't have forgotten more things, and she prayed to all divine beings she didn't get in trouble. She didn't remember a situation in her life where she felt this tense.

“May I offer you some wine?” Taehyung said as a maid filled his glass.

“Yes, please, Your Majesty.” She said in the most appropriate way she could think. She had only heard of wine, but never had the chance to taste it. The people in her village abstained from any alcohol and she was shocked when a blood-like liquid was poured into her glass. It didn’t look very appealing to her, but she decided to try it anyway.

It smelled like poison, and she had second thoughts, but when she lifted her gaze and was met with the Emperor’s intimidating eyes, she quickly swallowed a big gulp, trying not to mess up any further. It was a big mistake. She thought she was being poisoned judging by the burning sensation in her throat. There was no way people drank this voluntarily. She lifted her teary eyes trying to understand why he would poison her, but instead of a devilish smirk, he was looking back at her with concern.

“Is everything alright? Is the wine not of your taste?” He said as one of the maids poured her a glass of water.

She drank the glass of water as fast as she could in order to remove any remaining taste. After a few deep breaths, she realized she had no trouble breathing. She also didn’t feel any pain or dizziness. She looked around as the Emperor had a confused look on his face.

Maybe she wasn’t poisoned.  

She was a complete idiot for thinking she would be poisoned. And she was a complete idiot for acting like she was poisoned from just a sip of wine.

“I am sorry… I have just never had wine before.” Her cheeks and ears were red and all she wished for was the earth to open and swallow her. She wanted to curl into a corner and cry, but she knew she had to stay there and bear all the humiliation. Out of all the times her brain could stop functioning, this was the worst one.

“I suppose wine does have an unusual taste.” He said amused. “Maybe you are more familiar with tea or juice?” He offered, trying to sound warm and welcoming.

“I will just drink water, thank you.” She said drinking some more.

“This is going to be so much.” Taehyung thought to himself, taking a sip from his wine glass. Soon appetizers were served and they both started eating.

The comfortable silence was finally broken by Taehyung’s voice.

“So, tell me, how did you find your way to the Lake of Fire?" Erin took a few seconds to swallow her food and collect her thoughts before she spoke.

"My mother is very ill. We have tried all methods of cure, but nothing seemed to work. A few days ago, a famous doctor from far away was passing by our village and he examined my mother." She made a small pause looking at the food on her plate, not daring to look at the person sitting in front of her. "He gave her a recipe for a decoction that included the Amaryllis flower." Another small pause was made so she could find the right words. "I had no other option but to come. I can't let her die." Emotions started flooding her when she said those words out loud, but she tried to suppress them.

Taehyung however was more intrigued by the mysterious doctor.

“Do you know the name of that doctor?”

“No. I didn’t even see him.” Erin replied, drinking some water to cool her mind.

Taehyung took a few moments to study her. Seeing her distressed like this told him she wasn’t lying. A doctor who knows recipes with the amaryllis flower… The books containing those were burnt a long time ago. He wondered… Could this person have the book? No. Can't be. He is probably some impostor. The decoction can't work. There are way too many fake recipes out there.

But there was only one way to know for sure…

“Your mother’s story is very touching. As an Emperor it’s my duty to take care of my people. I would like to have your mother here in the palace so she can be treated by the best doctors. It’s also easier to take care of the flowers.” Taehyung stated. Erin’s eyes lit up and for the first time she found the courage to look up and meet the Emperor’s gaze. His eyes were serene and he had a small smile on his face. Being able to take care of her mother was everything she wanted, but somehow moving her to the castle wasn’t what she imagined. She wanted to be with her through this.

“I can’t thank you enough for your offer, but I can’t leave my mother here alone and I have to work in my village.” She was hoping he would let her stay in the village. "I am happy to be coming here every day, if you would allow her to stay at home."

“She would be treated the best way here. As for you, your stay can be arranged while your mother is healing. I heard the headmistress is looking for new girls.”

“You are offering me a job here?” Erin replied surprised.

“It’s the least I can do after the horrible treatment you went through.”

#kim taehyung #bts #fantasy #fluff #reader #emperor taehyung #fire #historical #flower #beauty and the beast #prince #king of fire #kim seokjin #royal au #king #tae #taehyung x reader

[lycheeemolala]

Do you guys think the members get edits of each other on their fyp/explore pages

#who do you think saves them to show each other and why is it vkookmin #with a side of hobi #jin definitely doesn't #he must get fishing or something practical or boomer humor 💀 #yoongi.... definitely historical documentaries or bball edits #namjoon also boomer humor with a dash of gen z in there #jimin...100990% boomer humor but also the crackheadiest of ARMY memes #Jungkook probably gets half ARMY memes/edits and half dances #Taehyung also gets the crackheadiest darkest corners of the internet in his fyp/explore #lychee's text post #bts headcanons #bangtan sonyeondan #bts #lychee's bangtan

[not-athennna]

Indigo Skies (And Other Lies) a BTS fic

Ma Vhenan: My heart; sometimes shortened simply to "vhenan"; a term of endearment.

─── ⋅ ∙ ∘ ☽ ༓ ☾ ∘ ⋅ ⋅ ─── “Don’t go thinking that your title can protect you here, Kim Seokjin. You mages always think you’re better than everyone else, don’t you? But cut your hands and your tongues and you’re absolutely useless.” Seokjin gulps down, his brain a miserable mix of fear and pleasure, too drunk in Hoseok´s true nature, in the beast that he knew it was lingering under the striking surface. ���── ⋅ ∙ ∘ ☽ ༓ ☾ ∘ ⋅ ⋅ ───

*Lightly inspired by Dragon Age Lore. No knowledge of the game series or books is needed (for I have butchered the lore).*

#bts #fanfiction writer #bts fanfic #bangtan #bts jin #bts jhope #bts namjoon #bts jungkook #bts hoseok #bts rm #bts suga #bts yoongi #bts jimin #bts v #bts taehyung #ao3 fanfic #fanfiction #dragon age au #fantasy #historical #romance #adventure #da inquisition #2seok #new fic #enemies to lovers #dragons #blood magic #mages #elves

[thedoctorsthings]

Power to the king | Min Yoongi pt. 1

Fantasy/historical au, viking au (attempted lmao), Yoongi x female reader

aaangst, female melancholia, sexism, Yoongi is an asshole (he gets better i promise), loss of girlhood :(

cw: writer trying to be funny and failing, typos probably

This chapter is just the intro, just to introduce you to the characters and to explain the motivation behind the main characters further behaviour.

word count: as always i have no idea

The air is thick in the reception room you’re standing in. Your father is looking at you with stern eyes. His face is rock hard as always and so is your mother’s. they had called you in here to talk to you and now you were awkwardly sitting in a chair while your parents tower over you. Everything involving your parents was always awkward. Their mere presence made temperatures drop five degrees, which was a spectacular skill to have in the icecold climate already you lived in. You think you know what this is about. You’re getting married off. Nineteen years under your parents’ roof is enough. You had been waiting for it with a rock in your stomach since your eighteenth birthday because they had married your older sister when she was that age. This was two years ago, and she was supposed to marry the crown prince of the kingdom but then your father and the king fell out over something you don’t bother to understand. Your sister married some other rich man of noble blood and moved away to a town in the middle of nowhere. You had barely seen her since. Your father had been the king’s right-hand man for years until two years ago. Now they were on less good terms, but your father was still an important adviser to the king. The prince had remained unmarried.

“you’re getting married Y/N”. Even though you had seen this coming from miles away the statement still stole the air from your lungs for a second. There was no arguing with your father, this had been taught to you a long time ago. Even if your father had been kinder there would have been no escaping this. A life without marriage was out of the question for a woman of your status. Besides you’d have to be pretty unlucky to end up with a husband who created an even colder environment than your parents. You had observed your mother for years and learned that the best way for a woman to find happiness was to just make the best of it. Quietly undergo the whole ordeal and if you’re subtle enough you can do whatever you want out of the public eye. If you play your husband just right, you could get him to do anything and more importantly get him to let you do what you want. If that wasn’t the case, there were enough tricks to keep him in the dark about whatever you said and did with your friends. “To whom?”, you asked and it felt like those words got stuck in your throat not allowing any air to pass. Who was to decide what the rest of your life would look like? If you were lucky, they’d marry you off to Jung Hoseok, he was the son of another noble adviser and he had been your friend for years. Although you wouldn’t be in love at least you knew you would be safe, which is more than most women could say. “Crown prince Min Yoongi”, your father replied curtly. You almost felt the need to straighten your back at the mention of the prince. He had a reputation for being cold and unkind but at least you had never heard anything about a tendency for violence. “How is that possible? I thought your relations with the king were strained”. “The last harvest in this province wasn’t good, the people are struggling and can barely pay what they owe us, as governor I have to make sure our people survive and the kind could help us, this marriage could be what we need to restore the relationship with the king”. This was typical for your family; everything was explained simply without drama or euphemisms. Not a single acknowledgment of what the impact of this marriage might have on you. They don’t care and you know you don’t have the right to care either. “The king has apparently been fearing a revolt from my side, so he agreed. You can go now”. That was it. This coldness towards you was all you had ever known but you never managed to shake the frog that appeared in your throat every time.

“I found a wife for you”. “You mean the maid that just served us dinner?” “This is no time for jokes Jungkook, your brother should have been married two years ago but because of her father’s stubbornness it took me two more years to find yoongi a bride”. “I guess you’ll be marrying the maid then Jungkook”, Yoongi says without as much as a smirk. “Nobody will be marrying any maids any time soon; this is serious”, the king barks. Yoongi finally looks at his father: “Who is she?” “The daughter of governor Leifsdottir”, “Are ya not quarreling anymore then?” “Stop speaking in that stupid accent Jungkook!”, the king barked again. That seemed to be the only thing he was truly good at. “You sound like an old farmer”, yoongi said and this time with a hint of a smile. “Mother thinks it’s funny”, Jungkook dramatically pouts. “The queen is not in her right mind, quit your fooling around!” dogs could learn something from our dear king. “The governor of Varberg and I have put aside our differences. Besides, we both could benefit from this union. It will keep him calm and in exchange I will help financially, his people are suffering”. “May I at least know her name before you throw me into this joyous union?” “Leifsdottir Y/N” “When are we to marry?” “In two weeks”. Yoongi simply nodded and got up. No point in arguing this, he knew that. Besides, he didn’t care who he would marry, he didn’t care about much anymore. Living with a father sucks the life out of a person. The king did it to Yoongi’s mother and he could feel he was doing it to him too.

On the day of the occasion, you wake up feeling rotten inside. The last two weeks you had spent filled with dread. You never asked to be queen, it involved being liked and that was not your forte. It was so much responsibility that had just been dropped on your shoulders. On top of that you weren’t ready to give up the relative freedom you enjoyed. After this day it would be marital duties and nothing else for you, and as future queen you wouldn’t even have a household to run to keep you occupied. You had met Yoongi once, when he was set to marry your sister. He had visited you here and you had talked to him briefly while your sister was getting ready. Since you had already had the opportunity to talk once your parents hadn’t found it necessary to make you meet a second time, convenient as always. Now you’re sitting on a bed in a room in the palace they appointed to you. You feel like you’re choking, all last night was spent crying and panicking. When you hear a knock on the door you straighten your back, over your dead body were you going to let anyone know how you’re feeling right now. If you were going to be made queen you’d do it well, you weren’t going to spend your first day as queen to be, crying. You’re not a coward.  “Good morning, madam, it’s time to get you ready”. They wash and dress you and your face doesn’t move a muscle. You don’t struggle, there’s no point.

Yoongi casts a look into the mirror as he gets into his formal attire, “Come in”, he says after hearing a knock on his door. “Ready to give the people what they want?”, Jungkook says as he saunters into the room. “Why do there need to be so many people?”, Yoongi exclaims as Jungkook flings himself onto his bed. “You’re the crown prince brother dearest, everyone wants to know who their future queen will be. They need to see if she’s pretty so they can know if they like her”. “Really, they don’t want to know if she has any interesting takes on how to run the kingdom?”, Yoongi asks sarcastically. “If yer gonna be king yer gonna have to get a better perspective of ye people”. “Jungkook stop impersonating your professor, it’s so bad nobody even gets who you’re trying to imitate”. “If this is any indicator of how you’re going to treat your wife maybe I should take her of your hands”, Jungkook laughs but is brutally interrupted by a pillow in his face. “All right mister grump, they sent me in here to tell you it’s time to get you married”.

According to custom you walk from the palace to the church in procession, and since Yoongi is the crown prince everyone is there to watch the procession. You walk beside your soon-to-be husband, when the procession started, you had tried to seek eye contact, but he didn’t attempt once to look you in the face. You might as well not have been there and so you didn’t try to make contact again. You feel naked in your wedding attire. You’re dressed to the nines but every eye in the city is on you, and you can feel it in your chest. Finally, after what seems like ages you arrive at the cathedral’s doors. The high priest is waiting for you with an unsettling smile on his face. He spreads his arms and welcomes you. You and Yoongi stand face to face while the priest starts rattling off what he has to say. You don’t hear any of it, you don’t make eye contact, instead choosing to look at the crown prince’s chest. He might be looking at your face but you wouldn’t know because you refuse to look at him at suffer the same rejection as before. Your father hands you a sword, the sword with your family crest. Yoongi is handed his family’s sword and when the priest gives the sign you exchange swords. In the process, your hands touch for a split second. His hands are warm which is surprising with the freezing cold blowing around you. After that there’s an oath which you mindlessly repeat, Yoongi does the same. The priest stops talking and before you know it the ceremony is over. You’re driven to the palace for a festive dinner and when you walk into the rowdy dining hall you finally wake up. The entire wedding had gone by in a haze, you had barely had a thought since this morning. It was like your brain had shut down in fear of the realisations you would have if you were conscious. When you sat in your chair next to Yoongi’s at a table looking out over the entire hall, the thoughts came flooding in. This was your life now, the quiet well-behaved wife of the king. No more walks on your own, from now on you would be shadowed by guards step you took outside the palace. No more playing with the animals your family owned, no more cooking or baking to calm your nerves. It wasn’t fitting for the queen to be in the kitchen. You would always love to go to the forest and just run or find herbs to use in the kitchen. That too would be over now. You were no longer a girl, you were a wife, you were a woman. The little freedom that girls have women have to say goodbye to. From now on you got to enjoy in the endless performance that is every woman’s life. You feel tears well up in your eyes. You clench your fists, no way would you let them see your weakness so soon, but it was too late. The tears were falling down your cheeks now and everybody could see. You feel Yoongi turn to you on your right. “Get yourself together”, he sneer whispers.

Now is the moment you’ve been most nervous for. Men think that woman don’t exactly know what happens on a wedding night until it happens to them, but they don’t know just how well women have managed to pass on information without them knowing. Behind closed doors and in hushed voices, most young girls are told everything they need to know. You know what’s coming and as rational as you are you know that Yoongi will not give you any love or warmth. You know he will come into your room, barely undress himself and only touch you when it’s absolutely needed. Still, you find yourself hoping that he will be kinder, that under his ice-cold exterior hides a man full of love. That this man would only reveal himself to you and that you would not need to be so alone for the rest of your life. The moment Yoongi enters the room and closes the door you know it’s idle hope. He doesn’t even look at you. “I will not touch you if you don’t want me to, nobody’s going to check”, it’s a kindness you’d never expected. People always acted like it was absolutely necessary to consummate the marriage the first night. You’d never known that the crown prince would go against tradition that easily. Besides, wasn’t producing an heir your only purpose here? “What am I here for then? I thought I was meant to give you an heir. “We have time, the rest of our lives even, besides I couldn’t touch you anyways”. Ah there was the real reason, you weren’t desirable enough, of course. “Well then I will just get to bed”, you said. At that Yoongi walked back to the door. With his hand already on the door handle he said: “don’t cry like that in public again, I don’t need all my subjects seeing that my wife hates me. It’s not good for my reputation. If you can’t control your emotions excuse yourself and deal with them somewhere private”. With that he slammed the door behind him. You were left in complete silence, sitting on the bed. How dare he. As if he wasn’t the one who dragged you from your home to marry him against your will. This is the moment you made a decision. You would never show any emotion in front of your husband. If he wanted stone cold, he could get stone cold. He didn’t deserve to see the vulnerable side of you and so he never would.

@lifeless-firefly @emerald-notes

#yoongi #namjoon #hoseok #jungkook #taehyung #seokjin #jimin #historical au #bts #bts fanfiction #bangtan #x reader #yoongi x reader

[herprincenamjoon]

Her Prince

Her Prince

✏️Prince Namjoon x OC

✏️ Romance

⚠️ Warning Fic includes: Fighting (sword and physical), blood, kidnapping, injury fighting additional warnings in tags⚠️

📖WC:44,886

Yeona, a hard-working woman who would give up everything she had to help anyone in need. Namjoon, future King of Yia, sent outside of the castle wall for the first time to find a wife.

Links for Ao3, Wattpad and Quotev

My Masterlist

Chapter Links

All chapters posted as of 10/2/22

Intro

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

#BangtanWHQ #Kim Namjoon | RM/Original Female Character(s) #Kim Namjoon | RM #Kim Seokjin | Jin #Min Yoongi | Suga #Jung Hoseok | J-Hope #Park Jimin (BTS) #Kim Taehyung | V #Jeon Jungkook #Slow Burn #Slow Romance #Historical #Fluff #Fluff and Angst #Romantic Fluff #Alternate Universe #Minor Violence #Non-Graphic Violence #Prince Kim Namjoon | RM #Eventual Happy Ending #Romance #Action/Adventure #Adventure & Romance

[hauntedkidpersona]

Once upon a time// Chapter-5

Pairing- Polybts x reader

Summary-Choosing a husband is not easy, but bring in the seven princes and your in a lot of trouble.

Warnings: Duality of humans, Mistress, Y/N is a badass, Detachment issues, Cold behaviour, Strangers to enemies, Nudity, sexual jokes, talks of orgasm (nothing we don't know)

Overview: Life isn't like fairytale. You knew it the moment you reached a ripe age of nineteen. Which meant, your now a women who is in a hurry to be wed and bring prosperity and fame to your Kingdom. For this, you have readily accepted the self-groom event which requires you to select your husband out of all the potential Kings and Princes alike. But what happens when you select, not one. Not two but seven grooms? Chaos.

Masterlist-

A/n- Taglist is open for now.

Tags- @singukieee @shadowyjellyfishfest @inlovewithallmusic @lachimolala22019

The laughter of your maids echoed across the inner quarters, it was a peaceful afternoon. Even though the place outside was burning through the onslaught of the summer, like hot coal it would burn anyone unlucky.

But inside here, you were enjoying the breeze near the kadamba trees that were in full bloom. Looking over the crystal clear pool whose stage was graced in lotuses of all colours- purple being the most dominant.

"She is cheating, Princess." A shrill noise had you turn into the commotion, watching as the maids that littered around for a small play of chausar break into an argument.

Anika glares, "I wasn't, the rules didn't say you could back away your dices."

You sigh, taking measured sips of the cool lemonade. The Sky Palace was breathtaking, made of white marbles. It stood in stark contrast to its name, resembling the sheer vastness of the benevolent King that reins the land you trudge in delight. He sure has taken a great deal out of the small request you had of him.

But who knew your peaceful days would end soon.

Young and naive. That's what your father calls you. But how can one expect a 16 year old to behave like some matured person. Your days were peaceful, passing with the vivid imagination of the books you read. You had no interest in anything, and so you were even described as a lazy wart. For except beauty you possessed no special qualities of a royal. You were pampered and spoiled rotten, throwing tantrums was second nature by now.

But all that changed when you fell for him, the sweet man who would bring all your imagination to life. But who knew he was just a vile human waiting for an opportunity. Which he got.

You shut your eyes tightly, fisting your palms wherein the warm water failed to match the intensity with which your heart burned. You hissed, inspecting the now bloody palm pierced by your nails. The blood swirled into the water, burning through and through. You imagine his blood pouring out as you ruthlessly kill him, without an ounce of mercy. You can't wait to be blessed by his screams of terror, him begging for his life while you get the upper hand. You can't wait until you meet him again.

They were right. When a woman decides to take revenge, even the devil sits down to take lessons.

You have a deal with the King of the Sun Kingdom. You keep the Princes from leaving their duties, while he in return gets you what you want.

Simple as that.

Getting out, you wrap yourself in a towel.

Not waiting to call out Anika to bring your clothes, you walk out. Face stoic and heart made of steel.

"Princess," you somewhat hear Anika gasping at your blatant disregard of modesty.

You look ahead, glaring at Jin who was now looking at you with a wide open mouth. Is that your book in his hand? Did he fucking read it?

The fuck.

Jin couldn't take his eyes off of you. Your wet hair, swirling and parted as it clung to your hips. Your curves being defined but he cursed that cloth that was in between. He can't admire the beauty in front of him. The book and revenge was long forgotten as he spluttered, cheeks flushing in embarassment while you glared at him.

Poisonous, that's what your looks are. Dangerous and deadly, it could kill a man if you chose that body as a weapon of seduction.

"Get. Out. Right. Now." You shouted, partly screamed so loud that he knew the palace guards would be coming to check. Scrambling out of the bed, he almost falls but nonetheless he stands up quickly. Coughing a bit, as he rushes out with prominent red cheeks that burns in shame and embarassment.

"Are you mad, you were almost naked in front of him. Have some shame Princess, what will he think of you?" Anika blabbers as you plop onto your bed, effortlessly hiding your book for which you became so defensive.

"Are you even listening-

You rolled your eyes, the next second, a cloth was strewn right at your face. Knocking you off from the train of thoughts you boarded long time ago. You sit up, furiously, "So what, He is my husband and moreover I don't care. I am confident on my body, whoever sees it will die for it."

Your tone drops, dripping in arrogance. Why not? History is proof of how men kill, die and wage war for beauty. Your a women who knows how to manipulate pathetic men with your charms. You don't shy away by them who eye you in lust, knowing they can't ever have you. Same goes for that Prince Jin. He can watch you but can never have you.

Giving you a solemn look, Anika helps you in dressing. The quiet that follows is suffocating, but your in no hurry to pause it.

Decked in gold, you shimmer at the red robes that make you look lethal. That's what you like to do, terrorize others so they don't overstep their boundaries. With power comes responsibilities and with that, you build walls; too high to climb.

"Princess—" Keeping a hand on your shoulders, Anika turns you around; "You should know that the fire that burns in you will one day burn you too. I know it demands and reckons you to be rude, mean, cold and rebellious. But someday, this fire will burn out and all you will be left with is loneliness. So please try to be nice to the Princes, so that in future you have someone to care for you."

Pushing her hands away, you smile at her. "Loneliness doesn't scare me, people do. For you know what to expect from being alone but you can never say the same for the other. I am not here to make friends, for I have far greater enemies to take care of."

Jin clears his throat, avoiding looking at anyone as he speeds up inside the common place where all of his brothers from another mother gather. Maybe he can find someone free from his duties.

Entering inside the room, he is met with Yoongi, Taehyung and Jungkook who seem to be busy in their own world. Taking a seat, Jin pours himself a drink and gulps it down in one go. Which did not go unnoticed by them.

"Brother, you look like you ran a marathon." It was Taehyung who takes a jab first, as Yoongi chuckles.

"I did, that witch." He groans, unable to get the image of her out of his mind. You had no shame, whatsoever. Walking like that in front of him. What were you upto? He now knows, why your beauty is praised by all. It was as if you were carved by the celestial beings, and no you weren't petite. You had curves in all the right places and damn that white cloth of yours hid nothing to his imagination. Hiding that body beneath all that robes should be illegal. As soon as that thought arises, he bites his lip upto the point of bleeding.

No way.

He can't fall in your trap. Your purposely seducing him, trying to seperate him from Irene and he won't let you do that. Never.

Sensing whom he was calling witch, Taehyung inquires, "Why, what happened?"

"I saw her naked." He shouts, mad at God knows whom. Him, you or the situation.

Taehyung gasps, as Yoongi who was in the process of enjoying his drink coughs violently. While Jungkook, the innocent lamb's eyes were as wide as saucers. Cheeks tinting a dark shade of red.

After gathering himself, Yoongi and the others bombards him with questions,

"Are you kidding me? How?"

"Damn, It should have been me."

"How-w, I mean did you two do it?"

"What about Irene then?"

Jin sighs, glaring at Taehyung who was accusing him of seeing you like that. It should have been him, not his elder brother.

"Guys, do you think we can do it. I had rather die and she had rather kill me than bed me. As for seeing her naked, she had a cloth wrapped around her. I saw her cause she might have thought nobody was there and came out of the bath in minimal clothing."

Yoongi hums, not interested in knowing anything. While Taehyung smirks, clearly amused.

Entering inside the royal library, you heave a sigh. But that quickly changes when you see no guards on sight, where are they? Lacking on their duties like this. Shameful. Going inside, you frown. You can feel it in your gut, something isn't right. The silence being far more merciless than you. You look around, the sun rays exuding rays across the large windows that keep it's brilliance intact. You keep walking, your footsteps being the only companion.

A rustle, snaps you as you strike; pulling the stranger hiding behind the shelves as your knife is freed from your robes and clutched against the intruder's throat in blatant disregard of their life. You press it, drawing blood that takes a coppery path along the pale skin of that women.

Irene.

She screams, flailing against your arms but it was futile. "Leave me, Prince- someone save me."

"Shh, damsel in distress. From when your allowed inside the royal library huh? Who gave you the permission and the audacity?" You push back the knife, grabbing her chin harshly. You bring her close, nails digging into her flesh.

Irene flails grabbing her hands to free herself, "Prince gave me permission."

You smirk, "But the King told you to stay far away then how dare you to have the courage to spread your whore legs inside my quarters and on my bed bitch. Tell me, from where this defiance comes. Let me end that for once and all." She hissed. You were so done with her. You push her away, as you continue; "Get this in your damn head. If you love Prince Jin so much than stay where your put. Don't try to meddle in affairs your not allowed to. Your just his mistress, so don't try to anger me otherwise I would have you thrown out of the Palace faster than you spread that damn legs of yours."

Irene glares at you, "That will only happen if you come out alive, Prince loves me and it's you who has to get out of here."

"Oh Finally, I was waiting for when you drop the act and now here we are." You laugh, her empty threats not stirring you in the slightest.

Having enough, Irene raises her hand to slap you but your reflexes ground her, holding her hand you attack her eyes, stopping mere inces away. Her eyes widen in fear, as she stands in absolute terror. "One wrong move, and I will kill you."

She trembles, "You call me a whore but the real slut is you who has seven men as her husband's."

"Atleast I am not running behind other's husband. Poor you, living as Mistress and already soiled and ruined. If in future the Prince leaves you-" You mock her, hitting a nerve when she grits her teeth.

"What's happening here?" A voice thunders, as you quickly back away. Bowing down to the King that strides in with his guards on tail. Beside you Irene defiantly falls on the ground, disregarding all your warnings. Such an actor.

"My King, Princess hurt me. She wants to kill me, please save me." She wails, as you cringe at her act. Wrong move women.

The King raises an eyebrow, looking at you who shakes her head. She is really looking for trouble. Testing your patience, all because she was the beloved of Jin. You internally smirk, you will let her know today who holds the real power. Enough of the drama.

Hearing the commotion, Prince Namjoon and Prince Hoseok also arrive at the scene.

"Is it true?" King looks at you, as you feel the gaze of others burning upon you.

"Why would I? She is Nobody. It's actually her who thought it would be nice to fuck my husband in front of me. My King, she was inside my inner quarters the other day and she dared to soil my bed alongside Prince Jin. I was just warning her not to push her luck. And lastly, I have to defend myself if someone tries to raise their hands on me." You speak, keeping your mind calm and tone strict.

You didn't want to bring their act up but she left you with no options. If in future, she wishes to harm you than its better if you steer clear of her. For proof you called for the maids and guards that were present while this happened. They gave the same reply, even revealing your act of burning the sheets and everything that had soiled your room.

Irene gasps, "No, she is lying My King. Believe me."

"And If you had a problem then why didn't you say it the moment it happened? Why wait for now?" Namjoon interjects, clearly supporting Irene. You scoff.

Another thorn on way. Very well.

You smile at him, "I wanted to have peace with the Mistress of my husband but she clearly doesn't want that. Instead she is showing her powers, acting on wimp just because Prince Jin supports her. No maid is allowed inside the royal library, unless they are cleaning it and yet here she was. I warned her to stay in her place and in return she threatened to unalive me. Just because Prince Jin loves her." You mock, eyes glaring down at the women who refuses to look up. But judging by how tightly she is fisting her hand, you know she is furious. What a sight to see.

Hoseok looks astonished, "You threatened to kill the Princess, Irene? Is that true?"

Irene shakes her head, but that all stops when the King speaks, "Enough, you crossed your limits today. Guards, throw her out for she dared to raise a hand on a royal and moreover she had the audacity to enter the inner quarters of the future Queen. Going as far as threatening her—" he paused, looking down at the women his son dares to love, "But not before whipping her 200 times."

Just then, you heard hurried footsteps. Looking up, your met with a furious Jin and behind him an equally mad Yoongi who is accompanied by other Princes. "Father, leave Irene. She did nothing." Rushing towards her, he is about to take her in his arms but is stopped abruptly by the King who shows him a hand that clearly indicates him to stay right where he is.

"My decision is final. She is nothing but a servant slash Mistress. As far as I know, the law doesn't allow servants to attack Royals which she did and you even brought her to your wife's chambers to—" he stops, taking a deep breath to calm down the fury which is eager to erupt on his elder son. "—Shameless. Your blinded by her, how would you know what she does huh? Guards take her out, and If the Prince does something behind my back then kill the cause. Once and for all."

It was as if ice cold water was smacked against Jin who stared at his father with a blank look. Irene is taken by guards, while you try hard not to fidget. You know Jin won't leave you for this. Never. And damn you for not stopping the punishment of Irene. Your mind berates you. Jin used to spend the night at Irene's and in return you had a peaceful sleep.

But now your doomed.

Tch. Gone was your peaceful sleep. Better keep an eye on this raging Bull who might kill you in sleep.

The commotion soon dies down, as the King is escorted out. You also join him, cause only a fool will stay inside with seven wolves who are waiting to rip you apart. Anika would have your head for this. She told you to befriend the Princes but here you are, already making more enemies.

It's night by the time your done with your royal duties. Your returning to your quarters, limbs aching for some relief. Anika has found you, and she is berating you for the chaos that you didn't cause. You ignore her.

A maid rushes to you, "Princess, please do something. Prince Jin has gone mad and is destroying everything inside the inner quarters. He is also very drunk."

You sigh, nodding at her as you step inside your chamber. Not before ordering others to stay outside. The door is closed behind you, as you walk towards the man who throws the jug of water across the room with a force that cracks it in half.

Sensing your presence, Jin grins like a maniac.

"I was waiting for you."

You frown, already hating the stench of alcohol that graces you the second he moves close. Backing away, you maintain a dignified distance for you know Jin is not in his right mind.

Getting hurt is the last thing in your mind, especially when your dead tired.

Looking down, you show respect for the Prince. "Sorry, but we will talk later."

"You—," Jin comes to grab you, but before that you attack his pressure point. Knocking him out cold.

Going limp, Jin tumbles down. But before he reaches the rock hard ground, you grab him and pull him up.

Daylight comes as a fresh ocean current carrying birdsong and the aroma of petals, her rays deep-soaked in the love and laughter of the ages. But to Jin, it was like a wake up call for the pounding headache that he feels. Groaning, he turns around the soft bed. Opening his eyes, he is met with the unfamiliar room. It suddenly clicks.

Getting up, he is furious to know that you knocked him out. The whole room is back to how it was- neat, elegant and serene. Unlike the destruction that he matted out in drunk stupor.

He will kill you today for sure.

#bts smut #poly bts #seokjin x you #slight yandere #bts #taehyung x reader #jimin x you #jungkook x reader #namjoon x you #yoongi x you #hoseok x you #historical

[dunadiad]

#bts jimin #bts jungkook #historical fashion #hobi #namjoon #taehyung #bts fanfic #bts army #bangtan #bts #Instagram

[jeongguks-s]

.

#historic bangtan moment #where were u 😩 #jungkook #bts #taehyung #bangtan #jungkook bts