Pawns of War - traintowoosan (2024)

Chapter 1: The arranged joining

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 1: AN ARRANGED JOINING

San used to love sunsets.

His gaze drifted from his reflection—and the reflection of his attendant behind him—to the always-changing sky beyond the borders of his room. Lush lavenders and pale pinks graced the airy clouds, a garden rendered out against the sky.

Once upon a time, he might have marvelled at those wisps of colour for hours. Now they only spoke of his impending doom. Every shade they darkened was another minute gone, counting down until his life would be forever altered.

His cousin’s hands shook as he styled San’s white locks into shape on his head. “This all happened so fast,” Heejun murmured, his nervous energy feeding San’s own. “Too fast.”

San shot him an exasperated look through the polished metal showing their reflections. “I have not been afforded the luxury to agree with you, dear cousin.”

At least he had the decency to look properly chastised.

His father said San had until dusk to prepare himself. That lovely hour where the colours were their richest in the quickly transitioning sky was now forever tainted. Supposedly the hour of dusk was symbolic. Special.

More like the perfect lighting to set the stage for my demise , San sulked to himself while Heejun tugged gently on his hair. He understood the symbolism, and if it weren’t for him being forced to carry out the role of sacrificial bride, he would have thought it beautiful. There truly was something magical about that brief juncture when day combined with night, a visual representation of the Light and Dark kingdoms of the Fae uniting as one.

Through an arranged marriage.

His marriage.

San’s fingers traced the smooth grains of his wooden vanity, an ornately formed piece that he had grown from the tree that currently housed his entire room. The queen had helped him shape each piece of furniture, complete with engravings of flowers, trees, mountains, and meadows. Her gift allowed her to manipulate wood into shapes—very handy when your entire palace rested among the treetops.

Would I ever get to see the world from this view again? Would I ever get to work with my Mother again growing wood for her to shape into exquisite furniture? Or would my new mate force me to stay with him in his barren wasteland of a kingdom, far from my lush forests and grassy meadows?

San physically shuddered at the thought, and Heejun gently patted his shoulder.

“If it brings you any consolation,” Heejun murmured, his delicate hand tightening briefly on his shoulder for a squeeze, “I’m sure Prince Seonghwa is having just as difficult a time as you are.”

His cousin’s words held the cadence of encouragement, but instead, bright rage lit San’s veins on fire. He whipped his head around to face Heejun, the vines around his room shivering with the tightening of his fists.

“Why should he be having this same conversation?” San asked scornfully. “He should think himself lucky to be marrying the Prince of Light. I am the one being forced to marry the Prince of Death .”

That cruel nickname tore a gasp from his cousin, and his hands fell to his sides. “Surely you don’t think it’s true…”

“Whether it’s true or not, the name must follow him for a reason.” San huffed indignantly, turning back around and straightening his shoulders just so. A facade built with precise angles, spine and muscle steadied to hide the true terror threatening to disintegrate his bones.

When the king called San to him this morning, he had bounded out of his bed in haste to see him. His father had been gone for so long, and San had missed him dearly. He remembered wondering as he raced from tree to tree, half-floating and half-running across their suspended bridges, if he might have a gift after returning from his travels. The king almost always had a gift or treat at the ready, often hidden somewhere in his office. It was a game they had played since San was a mere babe, and he still loved it to this day.

Instead, when San found him in his office, his father had him sit immediately and then the younger heard the words he had yet to fully shake from his mind.

War . Slaughter. A joining with the Dark Prince .

The Prince of Death.

No one knew what his gift truly was; only that wherever the Prince went, death followed.

His father’s words echoed in his head once more. “You will wed the Dark Prince at dusk.”

San’s legs shook furiously in his seat now, just as they had then. He remembered being grateful that his father had him sit first, or else he would’ve collapsed right there on the smooth wooden floor. San’s mother held his hand, but he couldn’t feel it. Never in his wildest dreams had he imagined anyone would say such a thing to him. Never had San imagined his father would just…give him away.

The king had choked on every word, teary and regretful, but it hadn’t softened the blow. San wanted to scream, cry, yell, throw a fit, fly away… anything to get him out of this arrangement. But he understood what was at stake. He didn’t feel the least bit ready, but he understood the reason why.

The humans had discovered us.

They’d been quickly moving through the fae villages, killing and enslaving their kind. That was why he’d been gone. San’s father had been travelling their kingdom, assessing the damage and doing his best to save as many fae as he could. Which was why they were now partnering with the Dark Fae. This was the king’s last resort come to fruition. He was out of ideas and out of time. Too many had been killed, and this was the sacrifice of one…of his own son …for the good of the many.

Their people were being slaughtered. Marrying the Dark Prince was a small price to pay in response, even if a joining of the two kingdoms had never been attempted before.

The Light and Dark Faes were not warring kingdoms; they just didn’t care for each other. Respectfully separate—that was how they lived. The mountains between them, a natural dividing line. They never bothered each other’s kingdoms before.

San leaned his elbows onto the vanity in front of him, pinching the top of his nose to keep the tears at bay.

How was I going to get through this? How was I going to marry the Dark Prince?

Would I have to call him husband now?

His cousin awkwardly patted San’s back with his small hand. Pats and squeezes seemed the only consolation Heejun knew. He was still a child in most ways, much like San, but he was still a few years older.

The door to his bedroom softly brushed open.

“Heejun, darling, can you give us a moment alone?” San’s mother’s voice was soft and regal. She was the perfect Queen, and everyone loved her, though not as much as San’s father and himself loved her. He told her all the time that no one could love her as much as they loved her.

San raised his head to watch his cousin dip into a quick curtsy before scuttling out of the room. His shoulders slumped forward further in exhausted relief; no longer having to put on pretences. The truth was he felt far too many things at the moment to know which one was the most important.

The queen sat elegantly on the bed behind San. She swung gently as the flowering vines that suspended his bed from the wooden ceiling swayed with her weight. Her warm eyes stared at her son, concern wrinkling at the edges as she patted the spot next to her. San moved from the bench he’d been sitting on to sit at her side, relishing in her warmth and comfort.

She looped his arm with hers and rubbed it up and down in that gentle way mothers seemed to do naturally. San sighed, leaning into her side, his head on her shoulder.

“I love you the whole moon and sun combined.” He whispered.

“And I love you more than even that,” she murmured as she kissed the top of San’s head.

For the first time since San had been told that he would be wedding the Dark Prince, his eyes prickled and stung. He didn’t want to let go of his mother’s comfort. After tonight, he doubted he’d get to rely on her the same way again. He was a first born prince of the Light Fae kingdom, destined to be king, and he had to finally act like it, but all San wanted was to stay in the safety of his mother’s arms.

“I know this feels sudden,” she whispered.

He pulled his head away from her shoulder, “Sudden?” San raised his eyebrows at her incredulously. “Sudden feels like far too tame a word for what is happening right now.”

His mother patted his hand placatingly. Why did everyone feel the need to pat me? It wasn’t helping. “I know, my dear, I know. But we couldn’t wait, and a joining of this caliber was the only safe way to ensure peace between our people. The Dark Fae would never have come to our aid if we hadn’t agreed—"

“And what of the Dark Prince? Did he have a say in this matter?” San asked, wondering if his cousin had been right, that the other did feel exactly as he did, only in the reverse.

The queen pursed her lips. “He did not.”

San harrumphed. “So he objects to me as well.”

“He has not objected in the slightest. He agreed to this union just the same as you did. Your father says he seems to be an honorable Fae.” She pulled on one of the strands of her son’s platinum hair, tucking it back into place. “Give him time to learn who you are, and offer him the same in return. I know he will come to love you just as your father and I do.”

“The Dark Fae are incapable of love.”

His mother tsked at him. “You know that’s untrue.”

Bitterness coated his tongue. He knew the words were false, but their two kingdoms had rivalled each other for so long it was difficult to pull back on the prejudices they had always shared so readily.

“And what of his magic? What abomination am I expected to live with for the rest of my life?” San held to his haughtiness, hoping to hide just how terrified he was of the answer.

His beautiful mother winced. It was well known that the Dark Fae’s magic was a warped and unnatural version of Nature’s gifts. The story went that when an ancient king lost his mate, he attempted to bring her back to life by distorting Nature’s gifts, modifying them to fit his needs instead of as Nature had intended. He became a foul king, banished from their lush lands to endure a life of solitude in the desert. It was there that he and his half-dead mate populated an entirely new race of Fae in which their magic was no longer the pure magic of nature, but instead based on the body; resurrectors, mind manipulators, healers, and so much more the light faes knew nothing about.

San shuddered, and his mother gripped him tighter.

“I’m frightened,” he whispered. His fists tightened in fear, causing the vines to quiver alongside him.

The queen moved and wrapped her arms tightly around her son, pulling his head into the crook of her neck. “I know. And you have every right to be. We do not know much about the Dark Fae or their ways, but you are strong and resilient and powerful. Your magic is life and strong.” She pulled away and cupped San’s cheeks in her hands. “Now, unclench your fists before you rip your entire room apart.” She smiled softly, but there was a deep sadness in her eyes that made his own sting with fresh tears that still refused to fall.

The truth was, they were both terrified. She for San, and him for himself.

San did not know the male he was to wed. He did not know the nature of his magic. He did not know if the Dark Prince would be cruel, kind, or indifferent. He did not even know what he looked like. Perhaps he would be as ugly as the blackened wings of the Dark Fae, or Nature forbid, as grotesque as a decaying body.

He had never met a Dark Fae and had no idea what to expect; except for a monster. That was how they’d been described to him growing up…monsters with dark, flaring wings and an appetite for blood and human flesh.

San’s body trembled at the horrifying images rushing through his mind.

His mother’s hands gripped his own again.

“Our kind needs you, my love.” She kissed the centre of San’s forehead before placing a crown of vines and flowers there. “It is much to ask that you sacrifice for the good of all Faekind, but remember this joining is but a small drop in the wide-open waters. There is still so much more ahead of you than you know. Trust that.”

San nodded silently, squeezing her slender hands back and clutching at them as if his life depended on it. His eyes drifted to the window that gazed out at the open sky above the trees. He loved that his room was high up, giving him an unabashed view of the sky he loved so dearly. The colours slowly deepened as the setting sun casually drifted below the tree line.

At dusk, San would meet and marry the Dark Prince, joining their kind for the very first time. It was a milestone in history, a story that would be passed down for generations.

Others would marvel over his story, their story. But would they know he hadn’t been allowed to write a single word of it?

*****

“I still can’t believe you’re going through with this.”

Seonghwa said nothing as his best friend Minho paced anxiously in front of him. Between his dark wings tucked in behind him, his short black hair, and traditional black tunic, Minho looked like the quintessential Dark Fae. “I mean, he’s a Light Fae!” Throwing his hands up in the air, he turned to face the prince. “For Nature’s sake, Seonghwa, this is a disaster. Your father should have never said yes to this. The thought of joining with them is beyond absurd.”

“Minho…” Seonghwa rolled his eyes up at the ceiling, reaching up to pinch the top of his nose. If Minho kept this attitude up, he had no idea how the Light Fae would react.

He ignored the prince as he began to pace again. “The very notion that we would need the help of the Light Fae, it’s preposterous. We are the more powerful kingdom. We have the more powerful magic. We can take care of ourselves.” His voice escalated as he sputtered, “What are we getting out of this little arrangement? Hm? You’re going to be stuck with some self-righteous spoiled prince as your mate, but the Light Fae gain our entire army? Our strength?”

“Minho…” Seonghwa tried again, frustration edging its way in.

“We don’t need them!” Minho nearly yelled before halting suddenly in front of him, raking a hand through his hair. “Our warriors will be slaughtered while trying to uphold this alliance on the battlefield. The Light Fae are weak and vapid. They’ll leave our flanks vulnerable. We owe them nothing, and you know it. Just say the word and your father will back down, you know he will.”

The dark prince sighed heavily, swiping his fingers across his exhausted eyelids. “We’ve been over this. You know the humans pose far too great a threat, and our numbers are better joined in equal force than they will ever be separate.” Pushing his shoulders back, Seonghwa stretched out his neck, steeling his spine as his hands linked together behind his back. His father had taken this very stance many times—the pose of a king. A leader.

Never mind that Seonghwa had never felt less like one.

“The time for separation amongst our kind has come to an end. You must put aside your prejudice and embrace this new era, just as I am.” he stared him straight in the eye, willing him to contest further on this issue.

The truth was, while Minho was ranting, Seonghwa was watching the sun dip slowly below the treetops in this strange elevated palace. As the colours deepened in the sky, he knew he had mere moments before he’d be meeting his future mate at their wedding. A fae he had never even laid eyes on, but Seonghwa had heard enough—rumour suggested that though he was powerful, he was supremely spoiled. As an only child, he’d been given everything he’d ever wanted, and apparently his attitude reflected that. A shame, really. The light fae was in for great disappointment once he married him.

“Light Fae or Dark Fae, it does not matter, for we are all Fae .” Seonghwa glared at Minho from the corner of his eye. “You’ve misplaced your anger, Minho. It is the humans you must resent, but the Fae are our kind regardless of kingdom or magic.”

Minho scoffed. “I hope he has the pointed face of a rat, just so you have to eat your words every time you look upon him and realise what we gave up for this supposed peaceful union.”

Seonghwa hated the fear that rippled in his stomach at Minho’s words. It was such a petty thing, but he prayed that Nature hadn’t gifted him a rat-faced mate. There were worse things in life, and of course he refused to treat his spouse disrespectfully, regardless of what he looked like. It would just help if he was at least pleasant on the eyes.

Though, all the beauty in the world might not be enough if he was as spoiled as the whispers claimed.

Seonghwa smoothed his hands down his long black hair, staring into the polished metal that showed his reflection before placing his crafted metal crown across his forehead. The Light Fae thought them simpletons for having to forge such pieces by hand instead of magic, but he marvelled at the exquisite works their blacksmiths created, no magic necessary.

What would the Light Fae prince think when he saw him? Would he be disappointed that Seonghwa didn’t have his wings? Would he hate his face? Would he tremble at the mere sight of him, like so many others?

That fear wasn’t exclusive to this kingdom of misguided Light Fae; even his own citizens shuddered when he stood too close. Seonghwa’s reputation preceded him everywhere he went.

The only good thing to come out of marrying a complete stranger was that he wouldn’t be required to touch him.

That thought slipped away as Minho handed him his gloves. “Apparently it’s time,” he grumbled under his breath, looking as if he was the one being forced into this marriage.

Seonghwa put his gloves on before placing a hand on his friend’s shoulder. “At least try to behave in front of them, all right? Remember, this could be a great blessing in disguise.”

He scoffed. “Shouldn’t I be saying that to you?”

The prince smirked briefly. “I wouldn’t mind a few words of encouragement. I am the one getting married, after all.”

Minho rolled his eyes before clasping the other’s shoulder. “Always keep one eye open in the bedroom, and never doubt that I am here for you.”

Seonghwa laughed then and nodded. “Wise words, my friend. You are indeed a great encourager.”

He hesitated, hand lingering on his shoulder; his gaze softened some. “I don’t mean to be harsh. I only hate that your hand is being forced. It isn’t fair to you.”

The carved wooden door behind him creaked open, interrupting his reply and announcing the arrival of the king, King Joongil.

“The sun sets.” His father’s abrupt words seemed to echo in this spacious tree room. “We must go now.”

Seonghwa dipped his head, a rumble of dread running over his bones. “Yes, Father.”

The older turned away with a quick nod, moving back out into the hallway of sorts and across the suspended roped bridge made of vines and branches and twigs.

At first Seonghwa had been surprised to see the Light Fae’s palace was entirely set into the tall, wide trees of a thick forest. Connected by many of these suspended bridges, each dwelling was entirely unique, from the tallest rooms set amongst the leaves to more cosy dwellings carved inside the trunk itself. An expansive, and very confusing, architectural marvel. He had no idea how anyone navigated this palace, but he was delighted by the green fauna and flora covered walls, the detailed designs and the cavernous light-filled spaces.

Coming from an entirely clay and stone structure himself, this palace was a true work of art, an homage to Nature herself. Beautiful and unique.

He would never admit it to Minho, but he was enamoured with this palace. Seonghwa had even been told the Prince himself helped design and build several rooms within the palace, his growth gift apparently rivalling that of his great-grandmother, an ancient and renowned Fae that even the Dark Fae told stories about.

Following behind his father, who in turn was being led by a servant, they wound across several suspended bridges and through a few buildings until they reached an immense and overextended balcony that would host their wedding.

Seonghwa and the king made their way to the edge of the balcony that hung effortlessly over some of the tallest trees in the forest. He couldn’t help but look over the side to the ground. Had anyone been walking beneath then they might have looked the size of an ant from this position. But it was clearly the view from this balcony that was the reason this particular spot was chosen.

Stunning colours ranging from lavender to deep indigo were merging slowly in the sky. The bright orange of the disappearing sun cast the entire balcony and surrounding palace in a golden glow. Seeing it with his own eyes, he appreciated even further the symbolism of joining their kingdoms at dusk. The timing was indeed perfect.

“Prince Seonghwa.” The sound of the Light Fae King’s voice filtered through his ears, pulling him back to the present moment. “We are so grateful for your willingness to participate in this delicate matter.”

Seonghwa nodded politely, but remained silent. This marriage hadn’t been his choice. In fact, he’d had no say in the matter at all. Even so, it was his duty to join together their kingdoms to protect them all, and for that, he would suck up his pride and submit himself to being chained to a spoiled Light Fae prince for the rest of his incredibly long life.

Never once had he ever wanted to marry. If Seonghwa had been given a choice, he would have remained alone for the rest of his days. It was safer that way, easier. His internal dream of solitude had vanished the moment his father told him of the human attacks and the plan to unite their kingdoms. He had been given the opportunity to meet with the Light Fae King and hear his plea, but the decision had still remained his father’s entirely, and he had been the one to choose this.

So, here he was. Waiting to see his future mate for the very first time before he committed his remaining life to him.

“…He is the most handsome fae in our kingdom, lively and powerful.” The Light Fae king was still speaking. Seonghwa realized he had tuned him out briefly, lost to his own thoughts. “I can assure you will not be disappointed.”

He sounded as if he was choking on those last words, and Seonghwa shifted his eyes to meet the other’s. They were bloodshot and raw from crying. He clearly loved his son, and he admired that. That fact alone made him want to reassure the king.

Seonghwa held his gaze steadily, choosing his words carefully. “I will treasure him as if I’d chosen him myself.”

Minho snorted somewhere behind him, and Seonghwa reeled in the urge to kick him for his insolence.

The Light Fae King seemed lost in his own thoughts, not paying any attention to Minho as he nodded repeatedly. “He is a true treasure. My little treasure…” He trailed off as the whites of his eyes suddenly shone in the setting sun, and his gaze bored into Seonghwa’s own. The sudden anxiety and trepidation that shadowed his gaping stare froze the prince’s insides, claiming his full attention. He leaned in close, whispering fearfully, “Take care of him. Promise me now. Promise me you’ll keep him safe. No matter what happens, please promise me you’ll—"

Before he could finish his sentence, Seonghwa ripped his forearms in a solid embrace, his gloves acting as the barrier he needed to maintain control from the sudden touch. “I swear to you on my life that I will protect him until my last breath.”

The Light Fae King sucked in a ragged breath, releasing it slowly in jagged relief. “Thank you. Thank you.”

Seonghwa released his arms and instead wound his fingers tightly behind his back to relieve the tension just as several females appeared in the doorway of the balcony. His stomach sank nearly to his toes as the Light Fae Queen walked out first, followed by several other faes who looked to be attending to her long train. There was no fanfare, no announcement; just the simple proceedings of a complicated union under the ever-changing sky.

Seonghwa’s eyes were trained on the doorway, his heart rate both speeding up and slowing down in discordant anticipation despite his best efforts to keep it steady.

And then his heart stopped entirely as the most handsome Fae he’d ever seen graced the doorway.

His blonde hair was styled up. His rounded cheeks and sharp jawline gave him a soft yet mature look, but it was his eyes that arrested every thought in Seonghwa’s head…slanted yet deep, a luscious lavender hue that matched the currently darkening sky. His skin was pale and soft-looking, as though even the sun knew to be gentle with him. Adorning his head was an exquisite diadem made entirely of flowers, as if they’d been freshly bloomed just for this purpose. The prince’s eyes were trained on Seonghwa’s face, just as his was. He barely saw what the other was wearing, too taken by the exquisite beauty that walked toward him.

Seonghwa’s magic stirred in agitation, and his hands trembled with the need to reach out and touch him, to hold his hand. King Joongil’s coarse clearing of his throat reminded him that he couldn’t, at least not yet. It would be hard enough to get through the ceremony, and already his magic was beginning to flare in its chaos. He couldn’t risk ruining this union; He needed to pull it together.

But Seonghwa hadn’t expected to feel like…

“It is my honor to witness our two kingdoms coming together.” The Light Fae King spoke solemnly, cutting through Seonghwa’s thoughts and pulling his attention away from the stunning beauty before him. “As the light of the sun mixes with darkness of the night, so shall our kind be forevermore joined in sacred union.”

The small crowd that gathered around them did not cheer or celebrate the occasion. They all knew the reason they were here, the reason they were joining forces and intermixing their species for the first time in history.

There was a dangerous and very present threat on their doorsteps. Their kind was dying and being enslaved by the hands of humans. For the first time in fae history, they had a common enemy. They were headed to war whether they wanted to or not, and their best chance of winning was as a united front.

“Please join hands.” This was the moment Seonghwa had been dreading all day, but now secretly longed for as he reached his hands out to the Light Fae prince before him. His delicate fingers lightly grazed Seonghwa’s as he closed his gloves around the other prince’s.

Seonghwa prayed to Nature that nothing bad would happen, that his writhing magic would stay dormant under his skin and allow them this sacred moment of joining without incident.

At first he thought it was his hand trembling. But Seonghwa realized, no—it was the loose grip held in his that trembled furiously. His gaze shot to the other prince, and his fearful lavender eyes pierced him with their sincerity.

Seonghwa wanted to reassure him, to let him know that he wouldn’t hurt him or use him or treat him poorly. The Light Fae prince didn’t know him anymore than Seonghwa knew him…and though both of them had likely heard rumours, the ones about him were far darker than scornful stories of an entitled attitude. It couldn’t have been more obvious how frightened he was, like a little mouse caught by a cat. But Seonghwa refused to be that in his eyes.

He started to smile encouragingly, willing him to see in the dark prince’s eyes that he had nothing to fear for, but his father came at them from the opposite side, partially hiding them from the view of the spectators. He shot Seonghwa a warning look that reminded him he needed to keep his head about him and not lose focus. When he lost focus, he lost control of his magic, and when he lost control of his magic…

“Through my blessing of this joining and in the sight of these witnesses, I hereby join our two kingdoms.” King Joongil wrapped white silk dyed to black on one side around the new mates’ wrists, the black side over the light fae’s wrist and the white over his, joining them both physically, spiritually, and symbolically in the eyes of their witnesses. He finished wrapping Seonghwa’s wrist and looked back at the Light Fae King, bowing his head ever so slightly in regard and humble acknowledgement; the Light Fae King did the same. “May Nature bless this union and bring peace to our lands once more.”

His father stepped around him, joining the Light Fae King so that they stood united as one. The sky shifted from lavender to a deep purple and was finally overtaken by the rich indigo of night.

Several Fae came over to inspect the silk binding and offer their approval. Minho, being one of them, shot Seonghwa an indignant look, but gratefully didn’t open his mouth. His eyes perused his groom next, lingering far too long for Seonghwa’s taste before he turned to the small crowd and bowed his head in acknowledgement.

“Prince Seonghwa, do you join this union willingly in the sight of these witnesses and Nature and hereby pledge yourself to your new mate for the rest of your days?”

Seonghwa braced himself, his voice steady and unwavering despite the chaotic magic undulating in his veins. Fear paced like a cat ready to pounce under his skin as he was forced to hold this position for far longer than he had anticipated. “I do.”

“And do you, Prince San, join this union willingly in the sight of these witnesses and Nature and hereby pledge yourself to your new mate for the rest of your days?”

Seonghwa longed to hear the other’s voice and held his breath until a melodic tone graced his ears. “I do.” His voice was strong, but held the smallest hint of an underlying tremor. He wanted to smile at that tiny betrayal of his nerves…or maybe it was simply marvelling over the beautiful tone of his voice.

Their fathers shook hands, and that was it.

History had been made.

King Joongil unwrapped their hands, and the minute the silk was removed, Seonghwa pulled his hands away from the other’s, swallowing his sigh of relief that his magic hadn’t made an unwanted appearance as he tucked his hands behind his back again.

They were then led back inside the giant wooden structure that now held various food and drinks for them to partake of while mingling. The sight of Dark and Light Fae meeting and talking in this way was beyond strange. It was a sight Seonghwa never thought he’d ever get to witness in his lifetime, and yet here they were. His groom remained at his side, silent and withdrawn. Seonghwa was not much better. But as the evening wore on, he desperately feared what came next and wondered if they would spend their entire evening…their entire life …together in total silence just as they were doing now.

Seonghwa looked over at San as he sipped his wine, focusing for far too long on his supple-looking lips. They looked like the sweetest delicacy, and he longed to taste them. When his lavender eyes darted up to meet the dark prince’s, Seonghwa almost fell backward at the fire in the other’s gaze.

Had San known where the older’s mind had wandered to? Was he somehow secretly a Dark Fae with the gift of reading thoughts? That magic was rare, but not unheard of.

The light fae’s mouth opened, and Seonghwa found himself desperately anticipating the sound of his voice, wondering what he would say to him.

“If you think you’ll be getting any of the usual perks of a freshly joined mate, think again, Prince Seonghwa.”

The scornful look San threw in Seonghwa’s direction had him smirking, unable to hold it back. His delicate mate was maybe not so delicate after all.

Seonghwa chuckled and leaned down toward him, whispering softly, “Rest assured, starlight, I won’t touch you until you beg me to.”

The other prince’s cheeks dusted in a light rose, and Seonghwa loved how easy it was to make San blush. He knew full well that him begging for his touch would likely never happen, but if given the chance to flirt with his handsome new mate, he would happily take it. And he would also relish the rosy shades of his skin as he made him squirm.

Nature help him, it was going to be Seonghwa’s greatest challenge yet to keep his distance from San.

Chapter 2: A necessary awakening

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 2 - A NECESSARY AWAKENING

It was as if the world swirled around him, but San remained still. His family was smiling pleasantly, as was Seonghwa’s father. Several Fae came up to congratulate them or introduce themselves, but San had already forgotten their names.

A sharp-eyed male came over to greet Seonghwa. His eyes met his briefly, but he offered San no regard as he spoke.

“Seems congratulations are in order, my friend.”

“Minho,” Seonghwa’s deep voice practically growled the Fae’s name, and San suddenly felt the need to squirm. The same happened to him when he first heard the dark prince’s voice during the ceremony. He didn’t know if it was because he wanted to run away, or…

“Not a rat, per se.” The Fae male looked him over again, narrowing his eyes. “Perhaps a bit like a feline, though.”

His head co*cked to the side as an obnoxious smirk twisted slowly across his lips. Seonghwa opened his mouth to speak again, but he jumped in before the other could. “Are you speaking to me, or just about me and then expecting me to ignore your rude behaviour?” San raised his eyebrows in question, giving the obnoxious Fae his full attention. “Because if it was my attention you were seeking, a simple greeting and introduction would have sufficed.”

Minho’s smirk bloomed into a full smile, but it wasn’t a charming kind of smile; it was cruel and intrigued at the same time. “The cat has claws.”

“Minho, enough.” Seonghwa stepped slightly in front of San, cutting off Minho’s view of him. “What did I say about behaving?”

The obnoxious Fae drew his hands up in the air and backed away slowly, his eyes moving from Seonghwa back to San’s as soon as he was in his view again. “It’s your wedding day, after all. I understand how joyous this occasion must be for you both. Forgive the intrusion.”

Minho turned and walked away, completely out of the room, leaving behind only the awkward silence that had quickly fallen between his new mate and him.

Seonghwa cleared his throat, turning to San, his mouth poised to speak, but was interrupted by their fathers approaching.

“It has been a lovely evening, but I think it best we all turn in for the night. There is much more to discuss and plan in the morning, but for now you two may…” San’s father cleared his throat, suddenly turning pink. “You may retire now…if you wish.”

Seonghwa’s father dipped his head toward him, “It’s been a pleasure meeting you, Prince San.” Then, turning to his son, they shared a look of some sort before he said, “Goodnight.”

Their fathers led the way out of the room, the queen joining them before looking back at San and offering him an attempted smile. It took every bit of poise and strength he had left not to run directly into her arms and beg her to save him from all this.

They followed them out of the main hall, every eye in the room on them once again. Everyone knew exactly where they were headed and what was supposed to happen next.

San couldn’t stop his blush or erratic breathing. He did his best to keep his hands unclenched, but the vines around them on the suspended bridge shook and shivered anyway.

Seonghwa looked over at him curiously, but San sucked in a ragged breath and ignored his inquisitive stare. Could he see the sweat accumulating on his brow? This was the part of the night he had refused to think about or dwell on. San did not know his mate, and he did not know what came next. His twentieth summer had only recently come and gone.

This was a disaster.

They were a disaster.

He didn’t want to do this, he didn’t want to…

“Breathe, starlight,” Seonghwa whispered next to him. “You have nothing to fear from me this eve or any other, if that is what you wish.”

Finally, San looked up at him. He could only hope he was able to hide at least some of his terror from him.

Their parents split off down various bridges, leaving them mostly alone. A small retinue of guards followed behind, but they were still respectful of the princes’ space. San’s father had taught them long ago to remain far enough back so that they could still maintain private conversations. He knew where they were headed—a guest suite had been prepared—but San’s bare feet remained pinned in place.

“If you’d like me to carry you, as is tradition for a newly mated pair, I am happy to do so, but you’ll still need to tell me where we’re headed.” The teasing tone of Seonghwa’s voice infuriated him. If he wanted to pretend they were a truly mated pair and this wasn’t just some hastily put together arrangement for the benefit of their kingdoms, he could do so on his own.

San huffed at him through his nose and marched readily on to the guest suite, leaving him behind. The breathy chuckle he released only added fuel to San’s already-raging fire.

Insufferable fae.

The room was warm and inviting. Someone had already lit a fire in the hearth and left a tray of food and wine for them. But the tension in the room was stifling. San suddenly hated the big beautiful bed with its soft silky canopy. Normally, he would’ve jumped head first into it and revelled in the cosy luxury, but not this eve. Not the night that he was supposed to share it for the very first time with a fae he’d only just met. It didn’t matter one lick to San that they were mated, if Seonghwa expected that he was going to—

“I meant what I said, starlight. I will not touch you this eve. I will not touch you until you ask me to, and even then you may still find me hesitant.” Seonghwa’s deep voice was steady, serious.

San whirled around to face him, as he entered the room, the dark prince’s eyes solely fixed to his own. With an exasperated huff of air, San narrowed his eyes at him. “Do you find me so detestable, Prince ?”

Seonghwa’s dark, brooding eyes widened a fraction before he schooled his features again, clearing his throat and shaking his head as he stepped further into the room. “I find you the furthest thing from detestable. I only wish to make you feel at ease.” His eyes darted to the bed behind San, and a dark look passed through them before looking back at him. “I expect nothing from you tonight.” He took a few steps closer still. “I expect nothing from you any night.”

Standing before San, the warmth and scent of Seonghwa engulfed his senses, flooding him with the lush and heady fragrance of earth right after a fresh rain. He struggled to keep his eyes open as he sucked the exquisite scent through his greedy nostrils.

Seonghwa took a step back again and looked about the room before landing on the tray of food and wine. Striding over, he picked up a chalice, gesturing it out to his mate. “Would you like some more wine?”

San nodded mutely, and he turned to pour a cup and then a second one for himself.

Suddenly transfixed, the light fae watched the faint hint of muscle slowly contract and expand under Seonghwa’s loose-sleeved black tunic as he moved to fill each glass. He wasn’t big and broad, but instead tall, lean and lithe. His long dark hair was straight and silky, and San had the strangest urge to run his fingers through the glossy black locks. But the oddest thing, he realized, was seeing a Fae like him with no wings. San had expected a male his age, especially the Dark Fae Prince, to have gotten his wings by now. It was very curious that he was missing them entirely, especially when everyone around him seemed to have theirs already.

Seonghwa turned around, holding two chalices of wine. Maintaining a good distance between them, he handed San the drink with his gloved hand and outstretched arm before taking a sip himself.

Until this moment, San realised he hadn’t really looked at him. He was the first Dark Fae he’d ever truly seen, and the prince was nothing like what he expected. Between Seonghwa’s tanned skin, black silky hair, and those piercing dark eyes with the perfect upward tilt at the corners, he felt entranced. The lines of his lashes highlighted his sombre expression, and San watched his mouth as those perfectly plush lips slowly sipped at his wine. He had to blink several times when he realised his gaze had never left San’s, even as he drank from his cup.

The look Seonghwa gave made something unfamiliar and hot unfurl inside his stomach, rising to his cheeks. San quickly turned away. He might have chuckled quietly again, but the younger couldn’t tell over the pounding drum of his own heart.

Taking a big gulp of wine, San took another and then another until he finally felt like his mind was relaxed enough, or at least foggy enough, to move on from the confusing thoughts ambushing his brain.

San most certainly did not think his mate was handsome. He was barely tolerable…well, tolerable enough to look at. He snuck in a side glance at the prince as he kept drinking in silence and found the other’s dark eyes still trained on him. A hungry look smouldered in his gaze.

The heat from San’s cheeks spread down his neck. Oh Nature, this was ridiculous. Were we just going to stare at each other all night? Dark Fae or not, it was fine to admire a male if they were handsome. San had nothing to be ashamed of. There was nothing to be—

“I never realised your palace was hidden up in the trees like this. It must’ve taken forever to build it up, each room secured to its own tree. Truly exquisite views.”

Seonghwa had moved over to the window, one gloved hand braced on the frame, still holding his half-full chalice of wine as he looked out at the night sky. The leaves outside sang a soft melody in the lazy evening breeze that caught on a few of his silky strands, as if lightly petting them. San sighed as he dreamt of his fingers doing the same thing. Ridiculous.

Then he turned around to look at the light prince, and a flush heated his neck to have been caught staring.

“Did you help build this room?” he asked, looking genuinely interested.

San shook his head, pulling his chalice of wine close to his chest as he looked around. “The style is older, which means this room was built before I was born.” The space was large, with a tall pointed ceiling and lengthy beam that helped stabilise the roof, but the room was still cosy.

The older hummed and looked back out the window, leaning his forearms on the sill while balancing his cup. “It’s incredibly beautiful here, living among the trees and being that much closer to the sky.”

He didn’t say any more, but San wondered if he’d ever been this high up, especially considering he had no wings to fly yet. He hoped that meant they would come back here sometime. San hated the thought of leaving his home…but maybe if he loved it too, he could persuade him to come back for frequent visits…

Seonghwa pushed back from the windowsill and moved to the bed, setting his chalice on a side table and making his heart jump with nerves as he slowly removed the sandals from his feet. Leaning back casually, he braced himself on the bed before looking up at the younger again.

“Even though I expect nothing from you, I would still like to get to know you. Will you sit with me?” He gestured next to him on the bed, and a strange sort of anticipatory panic rushed through San’s veins.

He brought the wine back up to his lips only to realise it was gone. San stared down, befuddled as he looked into the empty chalice. A finger tipped the top of his chalice backward as Seonghwa’s deep, dignified voice surprised him. “Would you like a refill?”

How had he moved so quietly? And why did he have to smell so good? San should ask him to stop talking, because clearly that voice of his was making his mind fuzzy. Maybe that was his magic? Could he manipulate minds?

San shook his head; better to keep his wits about him, even though his mind already felt hot and flooded with fog. Seonghwa took the chalice from his fingers and placed it back on the table with the tray before moving back over to the bed. Pulling back the covers this time, he sat down again and proceeded to slip his legs underneath.

Startled, San asked, “What are you doing?”

He looked up, quirking a dark silky eyebrow at his mate. “Getting into bed.”

San sputtered, but no words came out.

He smirked. “It’s been a very long day of stress and travel, and I know we’ll have much to deal with tomorrow. You may stand there all night if you wish, but I still need some sleep.”

The light prince huffed and fretted and puffed out air until words finally formed in his mouth. “I can’t share a bed with you!”

Seonghwa laid his body down, still fully clothed, pulling the soft blankets back over him.

“That’s fine,” he murmured. Turning over to his side, he shut his eyes. “Goodnight, San.”

Frazzled and thrown off, San didn’t know what to do with this…his…insufferable mate. “And where am I to sleep, then?”

The older popped one eye open. “Well, the room seems spacious enough if you should choose the floor.” San scoffed at his audaciousness before he continued, “Or you could sleep on the other half of this ridiculously large bed. I already promised not to touch you, but even if I hadn’t made that promise, I am far too tired to attempt anything other than rest tonight.”

And with that he tucked in even further. San watched as his body slowly evened out its breaths, marvelling at the soft brush of his long dark lashes against his tanned cheek. But inside, he was reeling. He had never been told to sleep on the floor before, let alone share a bed with a fae he didn’t know. This whole thing was quite preposterous. San didn’t understand why his parents decided that sharing a room after this joining was even worth the effort.

Maybe he could just go sleep in his own room. Or maybe he could go wake his parents and tell them to fix this. Or maybe…

San realised then that he was still standing in the middle of the room, completely undecided and unsure of what to do. He didn’t trust this dark fae, but he didn’t hate him like he’d expected either.

His dark features were soft and relaxed in sleep.

He really is nice to look at.

Maybe sleeping on the other side of the bed wouldn’t be so bad. He would hate to wake his parents to deal with this, or…no. It was his job to deal with this. San was mated to the heir of the Dark Fae throne now, and the prince was mated to him. They had joined their kingdoms this evening, which meant he was a mature fae now, right? It was his responsibility to handle these things. His parents couldn’t step in for him anymore, because San was mated now.

I’m mated now…

His swirling thoughts and heady nerves mixed into one big nauseating combination that left him dizzy and unsure.

Moving to the side of the bed that was unoccupied, San slowly pulled back the covers and sat down. His feet were already bare, and there was no way he was taking off his nightgown. But this was what he was expected to do. He was expected to stay here tonight, with Seonghwa, in this shared room, because they were mated now.

The world spun around San as he laid his head on the pillow, making sure to stay as far away from his mate as possible. If he could make it through this first night, it would only get easier, right?

His stomach churned, and he willed it to calm down. He shouldn’t have drunk all that wine so quickly on an empty stomach. San took in long, deep breaths through his nose and out his mouth, staring at the now-smouldering fire.

You can do this, San.

You can be mated to the Prince of Death and survive.

Just keep breathing.

His eyelids slowly closed until the sweet oblivion of sleep carried him away on a puffy cloud into darkness.

*****

Early morning light filtered in through the open window, causing Seonghwa to squint while still half-asleep. Soft snoring drew his attention to the opposite side of the bed, where San was curled up, tightly hugging the very edge of the bed. He bit his lip to stop himself from laughing. How his mate managed to still look adorable with his mouth gaping open and soft snorting sounding from his nose was a feat within itself.

Him being in the bed this morning only proved Seonghwa had read his stubbornness correctly. When he had challenged him last night, he worried he would wake up to San sleeping on the floor. But it appeared he had gambled correctly.

Spoiled and stubborn. I can work with that.

Quietly slipping from the bed, Seonghwa moved to the partitioned-off area to relieve himself and fretted about the day ahead. There was much to discuss and far too little time to properly join their forces. Depending on how quickly the humans moved to action, they could be fighting permanently from a defensive position, but his goal was to move them into an offensive stance as soon as possible. The small retinue they had brought with them would suffice for little skirmishes, but the majority of their warriors still remained on the other side of the mountain, waiting for word to join them.

Seonghwa grimaced as he moved back out into the main room in search of some water to help him wash the stagnant taste of sleep from his mouth.

San still hadn’t stirred.

A sound sleeper , he mused.

Minho hadn’t been right about his mate having a rat face, but he had been right to assume he was spoiled—and, he had a suspicion, very sheltered. Even though San was of age to mate, Seonghwa feared his mind hadn’t caught up and dreaded all that would be placed on his shoulders soon. He wondered if the Light Fae king had kept him in the dark, or told him of what had been happening to their kind. Not that he could blame the king for keeping it from San; he had a terribly innocent-looking face.

Seonghwa couldn’t stop staring at his spouse even now. San’s soft snores made his sharp nose scrunch up, and his lush and pillowy lips smacked together in sleep, unaware of the dark prince’s study.

San had studied him last night too, far more than he had expected him to. Even after he had feigned sleep, San had stood there, taking him in, assessing him, attempting to figure out how the tales of the Prince of Death matched up to the fae whom he would share a bed with.

The fear in his eyes last night proved he knew next to nothing of the Dark Fae, only the rumours and tall tales that were circulated about them. It made Seonghwa wonder what he knew about the true monsters…the humans wrecking their lands with their greed, cruelty and poisonous iron.

He shuddered at the thought.

Pouring himself some wine, Seonghwa took a few sips before munching on the fruits and breads that had been left out for them last night.

A knock on the door reverberated through the open space quietly before a maid let herself into the room.

“Oh!” She startled in the doorway when she saw the dark fae, then bowed, “F-forgive me, Your Hi-highness.”

The poor female looked like she might shake her wings right off.

“Please,” Seonghwa motioned with his hand, “come in, and don’t mind me.”

She hesitated but came in further, moving to stoke the fire first and then take the tray. “I’ll have breakfast ready for you shortly, sire.”

He dipped his chin in response, and San stirred on the bed.

The young maid dashed out of the room before he could request anything from their kitchen, but no matter what she brought, he would be happy. His stomach ached with hunger after having put off anything to eat last night.

San groaned, and Seonghwa’s lips pulled off to the side in amusem*nt. “Headache?” He asked slyly.

The light fae jumped at the sound of his voice, and he did his best to hide a smirk as San wiped his forearm across his lips.

“W-what are you doing here? In my…”

“ Our room, starlight,” Seonghwa corrected him, enjoying the rosy blush that quickly spread across his cheeks. “The maid will be back in shortly, shall I request a bath for the two of us?”

He knew exactly what his words implied, but yet again, the rosy tint spread from San’s cheeks down to his neck and beyond where he could not see any further, but Seonghwa imagined his pale skin in that same rosy hue and had to quickly change his thoughts before he scared his poor mate further.

San sputtered. “I will not be sharing a bath with— ”

Before he could land his insult, Seonghwa interrupted his thoughts yet again. Making San a frazzled mess was quickly becoming his new favourite game. “I love the indecent way your mind works, but unfortunately, I had planned on us bathing separately.” He couldn’t help but reveal a grin this time as the light fae made freshly exasperated sounds. “In the meantime, the maid will be back up shortly with our morning sustenance.”

San huffed and pushed himself to sit up higher on the bed, the other hand clutching at his head.

Seonghwa carefully moved to his side, kneeling before him and asking softly, “Can I get you anything to help ease the pain?”

His round lavender eyes stared back at the dark fae blinking in what looked like shock, but as the door opened again revealing a maid with her hands full, Seonghwa stood back up and moved to help ease the servant’s load.

“Thank you,” he said to the maid. “I believe the prince and I are in need of fresh clothes for the day, and can you bring something for a headache as well?”

She nodded, bowing quickly before dashing back out of the room.

Light Fae were frightful flighty creatures.

Seonghwa sighed and brought a cup of water to San, handing it to him gently. “In Twilight, we use ginger root to help ease stomachs.” He didn’t expect an answer, really, but he hoped that his offering of information would loosen the other’s tongue slightly.

“Willow bark,” San croaked in return, and the older’s eyebrows lifted. He rubbed at his temple with another groan. “We use willow bark for headaches.”

“Perhaps today you’ll need both?” Seonghwa chuckled softly.

“Ugh. Don’t remind me.” He threw his head back, covering his eyes with his forearm, and the dark prince smiled. This was progress. Small, but still progress.

After readying themselves for the new day, which ended up being quite the ordeal as Seonghwa had to step outside while San dressed, only to come back in and begin immediately undressing in front of him. His mate sputtered and practically ran from the room. That was after he had taken a good long look first, though, turning the brightest shade of pink Seonghwa had ever seen on him yet.

Pink was quickly becoming his favourite colour on San.

Much to his surprise, the light fae waited for him outside of their room while he changed, and the second Seonghwa came out, he started off at a steady pace. “This way,” he called over his shoulder, not waiting for the older to walk beside him, but he easily kept up as they passed over several suspended bridges before walking up actual stairs to a larger structure that housed several rooms, including the throne room.

“Ah! The new mates have finally arrived.” The Light Fae king beamed as San entered and walked over to kiss him gently on the cheek before bowing in deference to Seonghwa.

“I trust your night was adequate.” Minho’s irritation showed far too clearly through his tone, and before he was able, King Joongil shot him a scathing look in reprimand.

Several hand-drawn maps were spread out on a small table before them, so everyone could stand and see what was being discussed in equal position. “Seonghwa, you must see this,” Joongil called his son over.

“San, maybe it would be best for you to join your mother.” His father started leading him back toward the door.

Seonghwa watched him turn and walk away, hating the confusion marring his brow.

“I think it best my mate learn of what’s happening and have a voice in how to proceed,” the dark prince called loudly, stopping them in their tracks. San’s father shot him a glare, but he did not cower. He held the king’s gaze as he continued, “He seems woefully uninformed of the situation, even though he agreed to our mating.”

If the king’s red face was any indication, it was safe to say that Seonghwa had made him very angry with that comment. However, he had achieved his goal of catching San’s attention.

“What do you mean?” His brow creased even deeper. “What’s going on that I don’t know about?”

“What do you know?” Minho muttered under his breath, and the prince subtly stepped his full weight on his toes until the other hissed under his breath.

“The humans have surrounded the area.” King Joongil supplied in answer, and San’s father shot a look toward him that was both fearful and ashamed.

“What?” All colour fled his cheeks as he moved toward the maps spread out in front of them.

“Your father rushed our mating last night because the humans are nearly upon you here.” Seonghwa pointed to the map. “They landed on the Eastern shores and have been slowly moving their way across Aurora.” He showed the movement with his fingers on the map, then pointed at their current location. “Your palace is hidden here, in the trees near the West coast, which they have yet to discover. But it’s only a matter of time.”

“They’ve already taken our nearest town,” the Light Fae King offered bleakly. The failure and shame of this harsh reality was etched into every line of his weary face.

San’s eyes grew even larger as he took in the news. “But then, that means…they’re already here?”

Even Minho looked almost pitying…almost. “That’s why your father made this underhanded plea. Though I daresay you’re definitely getting the better end of the bargain.”

“Enough, Minho,” Seonghwa’s father chided. Minho got away with far too much because they were practically brothers, but his prejudice against the Light Fae was turning into defiance—left unchecked, it would make it seem as if they didn’t hold the respect of their people, and they definitely didn’t need anything more to tarnish their reputations with the Light Fae.

“Excuse me?” San’s eyes flashed at Minho, and Seonghwa did his best to intercept.

“Minho speaks out of line,” he did his best to reassure San. “My father and I know that a partnership is the only way to keep the humans from crossing the mountains and entering our land next. That is why we agreed to this mating and will stand together for this battle.”

“Battle?” San’s hands twisted in fear as he looked to his father for support.

The strangest twinge tightened in Seonghwa’s chest as he realised and wished his eyes had looked to him instead. But that was ridiculous. They’d only just met and hadn’t really taken the time to know one another yet, there should be no wishing for—

His magic suddenly stirred, angry and hungry beneath the surface, and he quickly pulled back from the table. His father and Minho both shot him equal looks of concern, though they were subtle, careful not to draw unneeded attention.

“My child,” San’s father consoled, wrapping his arms around him. “The humans must be stopped before they reach the palace. It’s the last…”

What he couldn’t finish was that this was the last stand before the humans would have officially taken over all of Aurora. That was how widespread and dire the issue was. It was why they were getting involved even though the humans hadn’t crossed Twilight’s borders yet…it was clearly only a matter of time.

Seonghwa watched helplessly as shock and terror warped San’s beautiful features while he processed the dreadful news. His skin ached to reach out and touch him—not with his gloves, but with his true hands. To give him reassurance and somehow promise everything would be all right.

“We’ve brought half of our warriors with us to fight, and we can be ready at a moment’s notice.” King Joongil broke the quiet tension in the room.

San swallowed, his eyes bloodshot from rising tears. It was obvious this news had broken something inside him, and he was struggling to fully process it.

“I think we should set up stands here, here, and here.” Seonghwa pointed at the map. “These are weak areas that are easily penetrable, and the best places to shore up defences.”

“We’ll need scouts assessing where the humans are located and how quickly they’re moving,” Minho added.

“I…” San’s voice choked for a moment, but he cleared his throat, powering on. “I can work to begin creating a barrier that will slow them down. Make it harder for the humans to pass through or even distract them so our warriors can move in.”

The idea was brilliant, and Seonghwa wanted to smile at his mate’s clever contribution, encouraging him further…but his father shot him down right away.

“Absolutely not. I need you safe and completely out of the way while the warriors prepare to fight.”

Seonghwa shrugged his shoulders. “I would be willing to consider it. It’s a brilliant—"

The king shot him a glare. “You two may be mated to secure our alliance, but we both know it’s not a true mating. Do not presume to dictate how I protect my son, Prince.”

The dark prince bristled at the comment, as did his father and Minho. Standing slowly from his more hunched position, Seonghwa pulled his hands behind his back, squaring his shoulders as he glared down his nose at the fearful male. He steadied his voice as best he could before speaking sternly in response. “As far as I’m concerned, our mating was true and complete. San is mine to protect just as much, if not more now, than you, and he has clearly presented a good idea…”

The light fae’s eyes pleaded with him as he shook his head. “I need him safe. I need…”

Seonghwa understood then. Beyond being a son or a mate, San was the legacy of the Light Fae. The hope of a future that the king did not believe he would see. Though it was obvious his fear overwhelmed him, Seonghwa understood that he merely meant his son could not be captured or harmed, as he would be the one to carry on the Light Fae line.

He nodded in acquiescence, and San, whose gaze had been bouncing back and forth between them, huffed out a frustrated breath. “If I want to help, neither of you can stop me, and I will not stand by and watch our kingdom fall apart because you have some misguided view of my delicacy .”

“It’s not delicacy, my sweet child,” the Light King cajoled. “It’s so much more than that… you are so much more than that.”

Frustration wrinkled his nose, but Minho jumped in again. “We already got a late start today, and I for one do not have time to console a little prince as he struggles to understand his role in all of this.” He moved toward the door before any of them could stop him. “I’m going to prepare some scouts and find out where these hideous humans are hiding before it’s too late.”

With that, he left, and Seonghwa took in a breath.

“Your ideas are good, Son.” His father’s hand landed on his shoulder. “And what of your warriors?” he questioned the Light Fae King.

“I think it best to split them up, half with you and half following behind the humans, circling them from all sides.”

King Joongil nodded. “It seems like our best bet. We’ll wait now to hear back from Minho and his scouts before moving into action.”

Seonghwa’s eyes slowly slid to San before he offered any more words, but his eyes were fixed on the floor, teeth worrying his bottom lip and his arms crossed across his middle. A lot had been thrown at him in a very short amount of time, and the dark prince wondered how he could help ease him through this transition. San’s father rubbed the side of his arm, whispering something in his ear. He nodded numbly and turned for the door.

Before Seonghwa could say anything, his father said, “He’s going to spend some time with his mother.” He shot the prince a look. “That’s what he needs now.”

Seonghwa gritted his teeth. The moment San was gone, he said, “So he isn’t to be warned just how close the humans are?”

“Even if they reach our palace, they’ll never find their way in,” San’s father said firmly. “We will prepare a plan for him in case the worst happens, but he need not fear until then.”

The prince had his doubts about that, but didn’t question the king’s wisdom and knowledge of his son…even though he wanted to.

“I’ll go get our warriors ready and let them know about our plans.” Seonghwa silently stewed as he left the room, wishing for a glimpse of him as he walked out. Not to mention wishing he knew how to navigate this incredibly confusing maze of wooden structures and suspended bridges. Wishing he had wings so he could simply bypass everything and head straight in the direction he knew he needed to go. But Seonghwa could never have wings, for that would mean he had become something so monstrous, so horrifying…San, and everyone else, would have every reason to embrace their fear of him.

*****

His mother’s hand stroked down his hair while she hummed softly. “It’s going to be alright, my darling.”

San sat up to look her in the eye. “But how many Light Fae have we already lost?”

Her eyes were stricken with grief as she swallowed. “It was an enemy we didn’t see coming. The few humans who’ve found this kingdom over the years never lasted long—their lives are so short, you know—but it seems word got out of hidden treasures here, and the humans have become greedy. They…they’ve already started building their own palace.”

Shocked and confused, San startled back. “What? What do you mean they’ve…”

“That’s why your father finally chose to try and unite the Fae. The humans numbers have grown, and now they’re using our own kind against us as their slaves.”

“So we’ve failed our kingdom completely?” The words were harsh on San’s lips, but whispered in fear.

“Not if we can fight back, my sweet child. That’s why we’ve gathered here together. It’s why your father asked this of you. He would never have offered up your hand for an arranged marriage had it not been of the utmost importance.” She gently brushed some strands away from his face. “The Dark Fae are formidable foes protecting their kingdom, same as us.”

San shook his head in frustrated anger and despair. “Why did you both not tell me what was going on? Why keep this from me? I could have been better prepared, I could have…” I could have been helping.

The queen took a deep breath looking away before answering. When she turned back to face San, there were tears in her eyes as she cupped her son’s cheek. “We didn’t want to burden you, our carefree, joyous child. You were meant to live among the trees in peace, and instead we’ve brought you into a kingdom full of war and evil. You deserve better…you deserve more.” She choked on her words as the tears fell from her eyes, cascading in wild rivulets down her cheeks.

San pulled her into an embrace, and they held each other tight, his shock and anger colliding with her grief and fear. He hated that he had been kept in the dark as to the immense gravity of the situation. He would have acted differently last night had he known. He would have been able to help sooner.

Is that why Prince Seonghwa wanted him to be a part of the meeting today? Did he realise San had no clue about the devastation wrought upon his own kingdom? He must have seen him as such a spoiled, selfish prince. His friend, Minho, clearly did.

Pulling away from his mother slowly, San helped dry her eyes with his fingertips.

“I want to help, Mother,” he spoke softly, but with an assured tone.

Immediately she started shaking her head in response.

“You know that I can. You know that my gift is strong, especially here amongst the trees.”

She gripped San’s face with both hands, her red and puffy eyes staring straight into his own. “You are incredibly strong, smart, and capable, my love. But you are also the hope and future of the Light Fae. You cannot fall, so we cannot risk you.”

That night, San did not see Seonghwa. He didn’t see much of anyone as they prepared defensive positions around the palace. Just before dinner, he had been ushered away to their shared guest room. Several of his trunks had been moved in there so he could change for the evening, but his mind wouldn’t rest.

The sounds of startled yells surfaced from the ground below, but San couldn’t tell if that was their warriors preparing or an actual battle.

Pacing the floor wasn’t helping, but he didn’t know what else to do. San had been told to stay hidden, to stay out of it, but standing by while humans prepared to attack his kingdom felt like a betrayal to his kind.

Looking down at his shoes, San grimaced. He never wore shoes, preferring his feet bare so he could feel the natural fibres everywhere he walked, but today he had been told to wear shoes. Simple strappy flats, like those he had seen Seonghwa wear, but they covered his entire sole and made him feel disconnected from Nature.

No one said it outright, but San was told to pack a bag he could grab just in case he needed it, and to wear shoes .

He supposes that was the real reason his trunks were moved into this room.

Bag packed. Shoes on.

Now, San paced aimlessly.

Back and forth, back and…

A thump sounded outside his door, and he froze on instinct. There was no other sound, but it hadn’t been a normal sound, either.

Was he overthinking things? Jumping at every sound? San didn’t want to scare himself into thinking something far more sinister than the reality of it being a simple woodland creature that took a misstep. How silly he would feel then…

But the prince knew those sounds. They were as familiar to him as the sound of his own breathing.

No, this was something different, this was something…

The door handle turned ever so slowly, and San flew silently to the ceiling, pulling himself onto the large beam that connected the walls and helped support the roof. It was a good place to hide, being such a thick and sturdy piece of wood.

Auburn hair on an unfamiliar head was what he saw first…then the shining weapon that glinted in the firelight.

Iron stung the air, the very scent of it scalding his nostrils. Fresh blood clung to the metal, halting his heart for several seconds too long.

“Check the bed.” Another voice whispered from behind, and the auburn-haired man turned immediately to the bed.

It was perfectly made. No sign of being slept in, let alone someone in it currently.

Auburn-Hair shook his head, but skulked further into the room.

“We were told he was here.” The voice from before whispered harshly. Muddy-brown hair appeared next in the doorway.

“No sign of him,” Auburn-Hair replied.

Both figures entered the room and started rummaging around.

“The food is still warm.” Muddy-Hair said as he popped some of San’s dinner into his filthy mouth. “Wine’s half gone, too.”

“Where would a spoiled prince go? It’s not like he knew we were coming.” Auburn-Hair shifted back to look at the room as a whole, and that was when his eyes started to lift.

No, no, no…

San resisted the urge to close his eyes as if he were a little child hiding from monsters, hoping that if he couldn’t see them, they couldn’t see him.

“Come out, come out, wherever you are…” Muddy-Hair taunted, and Auburn-Hair, snorted in response. “We won’t hurt you, pretty, pretty prince. We’re here to take you to our king.”

Auburn-Hair’s eyes collided with his, and the evil smile that bloomed on his face would haunt San’s nightmares for the rest of his life.

“There you are.”

“What? Where? I don’t…” Muddy-Hair looked at him then and smiled the same. “Come on down, sweetheart. We won’t hurt you.”

His breaths came in fast and hard as his heart pounded in his chest. San had never killed a soul before, but these two beings were obviously human…and seemingly here specifically for him.

“Don’t make us come up there.” Muddy-Hair threatened, and for some reason, the image of him trying to climb up here made San laugh hysterically. Or maybe it was his nerves getting the best of him. Either way, both men flinched at the sound of his harsh, uncontrolled laughter.

Once San caught his breath again, he called back out, “Whew! I needed that visual. Please do try to make your way up here. I could use some entertainment while we wait for you two simpletons to be discovered in my room.”

“This isn’t some game, prince. We’re here to take you to our king,” Auburn spoke. Despite the edge to his grin, his tone was even less taunting—almost as if he was the more level-headed one of the two.

San tilted his head to the side, the way he might have looked at a strange new flower. “I recognize no king of yours. You forget you are in my kingdom.”

Now it was their turn to both laugh.

“What kingdom?” Muddy-Hair sneered. “We’ve destroyed every village and are already building our own palace. There’s nothing and no one left of your kingdom, fae prince.”

Auburn-Hair moved to the wall and began inspecting ways to climb up. The hairs on the back of San’s neck bristled.

“Your people are all dead. It’s only a matter of moments before our people join us and burn this entire place down,” Muddy taunted, moving directly underneath him. “You’re a pretty little thing…maybe our king wouldn’t mind sharing.”

The dark and wicked chuckles coming from both men sent bumps of dread blooming down his arms.

Was everyone really gone? Where were his parents?

Where was Seonghwa?

“Once this place starts burning, you won’t be able to stay up there much longer.” Auburn-Hair seemed to be trying to reason with him, but obviously there was no way the prince was going to trust either of them. He motioned with his head toward the door, speaking to Muddy-Hair: “Go see how close the others are.”

Others.

San couldn’t let anyone else infiltrate their palace in the trees, let alone attempt to burn it to the ground. Even if everyone he loved was gone, he wouldn’t let them have what they wanted. The prince refused to let them win.

Steeling his nerves, San’s eyes darted to Muddy-Hair’s moving body. He narrowed his gaze, watching, anticipating where he would stand next before tightening his fist, summoning a vine to spring up through the floor, impaling the intruder through the chest and pulling his body back down to the ground, where it coiled around him like a snake.

Auburn’s eyes widened in terror, but before he could even scream, one of San’s vines slithered through the open window and around his throat, tightening until his face turned purple and his eyes bulged bright red.

His terrified gaze met the prince’s, and San stared right back, unflinching, until he saw the life drift away from his eyes. He had never taken a life before, and even though these humans deserved harsh deaths, the weight of their souls felt like a heavy cloak around his shoulders.

After staring at their still bodies for far too long, San lowered himself down from the beam, allowing his wings to take over as he headed for the open door.

San slunk outside, then crouched down low, the cover of night helping him hide amongst the shadows. Sound in the distance caught his attention, as did the bright orange flames he saw moving slowly through the trees.

Oh no, you don’t.

Fluttering up into the sky, San flew through the shadows toward the area where the flames moved like beacons in the night.

The first man he found was entirely alone, huffing and puffing as if the climb up here had taken all his breath. The hand holding the glowing torch wavered with fatigue, and San clenched his fist, wrapping one of his vines solidly around the other’s wrist, keeping it upright while another vine wrapped around his throat before he could call out for help.

Unsure how to extinguish the flames, the prince tried wrapping his vines around the flames just as he had the man’s throat. It took several tries, as his own vines kept catching fire, but San finally understood he needed a way to engulf the entire burning area and snuff it out. Growing a large leaf in his hand, he cupped it in the shape of a bowl upside down and quickly tied in its edges once the leaf was around the flames. The fire still burned the leaf, but the flames snuffed out without causing further damage.

Creation magic like that took a lot more out of him than simply controlling his vines. San took a moment to catch his breath, fluttering his wings to keep himself suspended in the air as he looked back out among the trees. Three more torches glowed up ahead, dipping and waving as they marched on our suspended bridges. He moved to the nearest one, being as stealthy and silent as possible, and took her out in the same way he had taken out the first one.

But the creation magic weighed the prince down even more than he anticipated and his wings faltered, forcing him to stand instead of hovering over the ground.

A hand flew around his neck pulling him against a hardened body as foul breath huffed across his cheek. “What’s a pretty fairy like you skulking around in the dark, eh?”

Clenching his fist, San willed his vines to wrap up the other’s legs. As he jumped in shock, the prince pulled his body away at the same time he flung him over the wooden landing they had been standing on. Catching his breath again, San looked down and saw several humans making their way up the ladders embedded in the tree trunks below.

Confusion clouded his mind. This was a secret entrance, not their main entry from the ground. How had these men found it?

San counted down the line. Ten . There were ten of them briskly climbing up the ladder. The idea he had earlier in the war room came crashing back into his mind, and without a second thought, he began weaving his vines across the ladder, forming a blockade of sorts. It likely wouldn’t stop them entirely, but it would certainly slow them down.

As San wove, he also called on his vines to begin pulling the men off the ladder. One by one, he flung them back to the ground. Their startled cries echoed in the silence of night.

A pain unlike any he had ever felt before cut through his side, causing him to keel over in agony.

“Not so strong now are ye?” A cruel voice sounded above him, but San couldn’t open his eyes.

“It’s just a boy!” Another voice yelled out. It almost sounded angry…but not at him, he didn’t think.

“It’s not a boy. It’s one of those fairy shrews. Don’t let their faces fool you.”

A strong grip tugged at San’s wrist, jolting his body forward, but it wouldn’t work like normal. His legs were numb, useless, and his side cried out in searing torment.

“Leave that in him and take him down with the rest.” The sound of hacking came next as he was pulled away, slightly more gently this time around.

“I’m sorry, young man, but I have to leave that in your side.” The softer voice spoke quietly to San as he was dragged across wooden planks and then yanked over a shoulder. “I promise to take it out as soon as I’ve got ye secured.”

His words made no sense. This pain made no sense. San forced his eyes to open and tried to take in a gasp of air, but he wasn’t able. The stinging pain in his side left him breathless, panting for oxygen that couldn’t relieve his lungs.

He tried to reach his hands up, but it was as though they were trapped beneath boulders, unmovable and aching.

What was happening to me?

Before he could even voice the sheer agony spreading throughout his entire body, San was suddenly dropped to the floor. The staggering pain blacked out his vision, or maybe his eyes were simply closed. He didn’t even know how to move or what position his body had crumpled in.

What was this excruciating torment?

“San?” A deep voice called him from the depths of the darkness…first in hope, then in fury. “San! Open your eyes.”

The prince struggled to obey, but nothing could persuade his eyelids to open, not even that deep voice he secretly longed to hear.

“Where is it?” Hands wandered over his body, that voice deepening to a panicked growl the longer those hands searched for…something. San couldn’t tell what. “Where is…”

“It’s in his side.”

The deep voice cursed, and a fresh ripping pain finally yanked San’s eyelids open, a scream wrenching out of him.

“San? San!”

The light fae blinked furiously, trying to make out the figure before him. “Seonghwa?”

“Yes.” San saw his hand gripped in the other’s. “It’s Seonghwa. I need to get you up. We need to go.”

“What…what’s happening?” He questioned, as strong arms raised his body to standing. San’s knees immediately gave out, and Seonghwa cursed again, sweeping him up into his arms.

Seemed he would follow that newly mated tradition, after all.

“The humans overwhelmed us, we have to…”

“Where are my parents?” San asked groggily. As the pain slowly faded, so did the light at the edges of his vision, blackness invading everything around him.

A harsh silence surrounded that question.

“Seonghwa?” San asked again as his eyes drifted shut. “Where are my parents?”

A rough exhale. Just before he fully succumbed to the darkness, he heard his mate’s sorrowful whisper: “I’m so sorry, San.”

Chapter 3: An imperative alliance

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 3: AN IMPERATIVE ALLIANCE

“We have to get him out of here.” His father’s words echoed in his ears, but his brain struggled to comprehend the haze of battle.

They had lost.

Horribly.

The humans had overwhelmed them on every side as if they’d been ready for them, like they somehow knew their plan all along. The reality of it all was horrifying and devastating.

It was over before their partnership could truly even begin.

Anger whirled through Seonghwa’s veins, as well as the terror he had felt while unleashing his power. Even now, his heart beat frantically and his magic whirled hungrily beneath his skin. He held San’s small body in his arms, touching his skin.

Seonghwa couldn’t risk it…not with him.

“Minho!” the prince called out, not knowing who was next to him and who wasn’t.

“I’m here, Seonghwa.” His voice was calm, sure and steady. Exactly what he needed at this moment.

He exhaled slowly. “I need you to take him.” Seonghwa lifted San’s limp body up and into his arms. He hated relinquishing him like this. He wanted to be the one holding him, to be the one he saw when he woke, to be his comfort and reassurance, but touching him like this was too much of a risk. He was too much of a risk.

Minho must have seen it in his eyes when Seonghwa lifted his gaze. The rebuttal he saw forming died quickly on the other’s lips as he clamped his mouth shut and took the light prince from his arms with a firm nod. “I have him.”

Turning from them, Seonghwa faced his father. “Go with Minho. Keep him safe, and I’ll meet you as soon as I can.”

He stood up, not wanting to look back at San passed out in Minho’s arms. It was an image of utter failure…a reminder that it had taken a day barely for him to break the promise to San’s father.

“Son, I can’t let you…”

Pulling all his restless magic inside of him, Seonghwa gripped the back of his father’s neck and rested their foreheads together. “I will be right behind you. Please go.”

He nodded reluctantly, and Seonghwa quickly pulled away and caught the gaze of a few of their warriors. “You all come with me. We’ll gather as many of the Light Fae as possible.”

The king understood—Seonghwa saw the agreement and faith in his eyes as he called the rest of the warriors to follow him and Minho.

Thankfully, they’d designated a meeting point up in the mountains to prepare for the worst, which was exactly what had come to pass. That way, the location never needed to be said, but they would all know where to go.

Seonghwa allowed himself one last look toward San. He was still, pale, bleeding, making his heart sink straight to his feet.

He didn’t deserve to have to face what had happened here today alone, and yet…

The dark prince shook his head to rid it of the image of San’s parents slain. His father had fallen next to him during the brief battle they’d fought alongside each other. The slit across his neck and iron arrow embedded in his back didn’t allow for any words, but his panicked eyes would remain with Seonghwa for the rest of his life.

San’s mother he found during their retreat. She’d been in the building San had just passed in pursuit of his torch-bearer victims. The puddle of blood surrounding her head was enough to tell him she’d put up a fight, but her gift was never meant to be an offensive magic, especially not in comparison to her son’s.

Witnessing the aftermath of San’s magic was nothing shy of remarkable. For not having any battle training, Seonghwa was shocked and impressed by his immense capacity to wield his magic in so many ways.

After pulling the iron dagger from his side, their healers had immediately sealed and healed the wound, plus any others they’d found on his body. The older knew that meant San was physically fine, but still, he worried…

Pulling himself back into the present, their warriors scoured the palace for survivors.

The humans had already started burning the incredible palace in the trees, and there was nothing he could do to stop them, but they could save those they found, and that would have to be enough for now.

*****

San was always told there are moments in everyone’s lives when everything comes to the sharpest of clarity. Where you can somehow look around and see your surroundings in absolutely perfect detail, from the scents in the air to the feelings under your fingers.

Waking to the view of dark, unfamiliar rock above his head and digging into his back was that moment for him. His mind instantly knew that something was wrong. Everything felt foreign, amiss.

He sat up, stifling a groan from his body’s stiff lack of movement. The musty scent of mildew and the damp clamminess of too much moisture in the air clogged his lungs and clung to his skin. Somewhere in the distance, San could smell a fire burning, but he’d clearly been laid off to the side. There was nothing beneath him but damp, rough rock.

Listening for any sounds that were familiar, San heard the low, grumbled murmurs of voices not too far away, and that was when his mind caught up with him. His hand immediately went to his injured side, and eyes followed closely behind.

There was nothing marring his skin, except the stain of blood and a jagged cut in his tunic. Fingers trembling, San raised them to his face and head, almost as if checking that everything was still there.

I’m so sorry, San.

Seonghwa’s voice replayed in his mind, carrying with it all the anguish and grief he couldn’t feel yet.

“Seonghwa?” He called out softly.

Silence.

“Seonghwa?” He tried a little louder.

For some reason, his mind wouldn’t let him call out for his mother and father. There was an innate knowing that he refused to acknowledge in the back of his mind.

San stumbled and tripped into a standing position, but he had to bend forward in order to fit under the shallow rock ceiling. His hands trembled as they tried to grip the rough stone, failing over and over and over.

A slight shuffle of feet grew louder until he heard, “Oh. You’re up.” Minho’s form appeared at the entrance of the small cave. The sky behind him glowed soft pastel yellow with the early morning light of dawn. “I thought I heard a cat scrabbling around in here.”

“Where’s Seonghwa?” San questioned. his voice reverberated along the rocks surrounding him.

Minho raised a bushy black brow, his features pinched and shadowed in the darkness of the cave. His black hair was longer than Seonghwa’s, it hung in his eyes until he combed the strands back with his hand. “Why do you care where Seonghwa is?”

San baulked at the question, ducking and twisting his head awkwardly in order to face the other inside the low cave. “Because, he…he’s my mate,” he answered tentatively.

Minho scoffed, crossing his arms in front of his body. “Oh, so now you want him, do you? Now that you’ve lost everything else, he’s finally good enough for the prince of the exalted Light Fae?” Sneering, his face contorted in disgust. “You are nothing to him now but a spoil of war and a burden to all of us.” He pointed behind him. “Stay in your cave, kitten. You’ll be lucky if he bothers to speak to you again when he returns.”

“But my family!” San protested, wanting to somehow push past him and edge his way outside, where he could stand up tall while facing him directly. “Where are they? Tell me!”

“Your family is dead,” Minho spat. “There is no more Aurora. You failed.”

Turning on his heels, he left the cave entrance. It left room for San to exit, but he couldn’t get his feet to move. His limbs froze in place, and his heart stopped beating. At least, that was what it felt like.

Dead.

San wanted to protest. To demand the truth and see his family, but a part of him, the part he refused to acknowledge, knew. I knew . San knew what he said was true, but his mind both believed and refused to believe it.

So he stood there, completely frozen, unable to move or think or cry or scream.

Nothing.

A drip collided with water echoing somewhere behind him.

Alone.

He was all alone now.

Would he be left here to die, then? Or taken back to Twilight as a spoil of war, as Minho said? Was it all for nothing?

*****

When Seonghwa arrived at their gathering site, he immediately went in search of San. They’d brought with them at least fifty survivors, and he wanted to tell his mate the good news.

Was he awake yet? Was he in pain?

Would he blame him?

Seonghwa had failed him. They’d brought their warriors to help, had been so confident, and yet they’d failed miserably.

Does he hate me now?

It was much colder on the top of the mountain than it had been amongst the trees. With such a large group moving as quickly as they could while still watching their back for enemy pursuers, they’d taken over half the day just to get here. Most of the survivors were warming themselves by the fire or grabbing a much-needed bite to eat from their hidden stores.

“I can’t believe you risked your life like that.” Minho’s voice was suddenly in his ear. Seonghwa hadn’t even seen him come up to him, so lost in his own thoughts and his search for San.

He didn’t look at him as he spoke, still searching the camp for San’s white locks. “It was the right thing to do, and you know it.” Turning to look at him, the prince asked the only question on his lips: “Where’s San?”

Minho jerked his head behind him. “Preferred keeping to himself like the pampered prince he is.” He clenched his jaw. “He’s hiding in a cave behind us.”

Seonghwa nodded and moved to go to him when Minho’s hand struck out, gripping his bare upper arm, making him tense. “Will you release him from your mating bond now that his kingdom is no more and can’t enforce the treaty? I highly doubt your father would disapprove—“

“Enough, Minho.” He scolded, shaking the other’s hand off before he lost control of his magic. “I will honour my promise to him regardless of the status of his kingdom.”

Minho scoffed. “You are too soft-hearted, Seonghwa.”

“And you judge too quickly.” Seonghwa turned away from him, his gaze travelling swiftly over the craggy rocks in search of the cave. “His family is gone, Minho. I won’t abandon him when he needs support more than ever. I need you to accept that.” He paused, looking down at the ground briefly. “I need you to accept us .”

Minho’s sigh was one of defeat…perhaps a hint of acceptance, but Seonghwa knew it would still take him a while to fully get on board. The Dark Fae’s prejudice against the Light Fae was centuries old and difficult to move past.

“Fine. I will accept your union, Seonghwa.” He turned away, walking toward the nearest campfire, tossing a parting remark over his shoulder: “Just take care to watch your back. I can’t be there for you all the time.”

The prince rolled his eyes and turned toward the craggy rocks before him. It took him a moment to find the small cave because the space was so dark and cramped. Ducking his head down, Seonghwa had to practically crawl on his knees to get to San. Luckily, he was only a few steps away. Unluckily, he sat on the ground, clutching at his knees and shivering profusely as he rocked back and forth.

The light fae didn’t look like he had cried yet, but he also didn’t look entirely present. His eyes had a glazed-over appearance, as if they’d frozen open.

“San?” Seonghwa asked quietly. He neither looked up nor responded. Just kept rocking back and forth, back and forth.

“Have you had anything to eat or drink?”

Still no response.

Seonghwa wanted to reach out and touch him, but he was too worried his magic would flair at the contact like it did before. Lowering himself down the wall instead, he sat next to his mate.

After a long silence, San’s ragged voice came out, hoarse with disuse: “Why did you bring me here?”

Seonghwa slowly turned to look at him, but he wasn’t looking back, still staring down at his knees.

“You’re my mate,” he answered plainly.

San shook his head violently. “I’m not. I’m not anything anymore. I’m not anyone. I don’t know what to do. I don’t know what to do…”

His voice wept even if his tears didn’t follow, and Seonghwa couldn’t bear it any longer.

Pulling San into his arms, the dark prince willed his magic to stay at bay, using all of his strength to keep it under his skin as he turned San’s whole body in to embrace him, engulf him, protect him from everything he could. Tucking San’s head under his chin, Seonghwa held it there over his beating heart, willing him to know how sincere he was, and how much he already cared even in such a short amount of time. It didn’t matter. San might not have been what he would have chosen for himself, but he was still his to care for now, and Seonghwa found he longed to do just that.

“You’re not alone, starlight. I’m with you,” he reassured his mate, rocking him in his arms as his body silently convulsed. “I will not leave you. You’re my mate no matter what our circ*mstances. I’m with you. I’m here.” Seonghwa’s voice trailed off into a whisper as San’s trembling slowly eased and relaxed under his care. His gentle hand unlatched from his knees and carefully covered Seonghwa’s own that gripped his arm.

Without his gloves, he could feel San’s hand, warm and soft as it rested atop his. His palms were smooth, and his touch alone was a gift he rarely felt from anyone since he was a child. Even though San’s skin was cold and damp from the cave and cool mountain air, his body was warm and pliant as he steadily melted against the dark prince. Unable to help himself, Seonghwa sucked in a ragged breath. Even though he had intended to comfort San, he realized he hadn’t felt this kind of comfort in so long. He closed his eyes and leaned his head against San’s, relishing the luxury of both touching and being touched by someone. His breathing relaxed, and his body with it, until Seonghwa felt his magic stir and push beneath his skin as if it was reaching for San too.

No.

He couldn’t let that happen.

He couldn’t…

San’s perfect palm squeezed his hand beneath it as he sighed, and Seonghwa’s magic sang to life at the contact, forcing him to pull away and scoot back.

Seonghwa hated doing it. He hated leaving the comfort of their body against each other. The beautiful way he moulded into him, melting and bending to fit their forms closer together.

San’s wide lavender eyes looked at him in confusion and question.

The older swallowed thickly, clearing his throat to ease the tension there. “Let’s get you warmed and fed. There’s no need to stay hidden in here.”

“But I thought…” he trailed off as Seonghwa turned toward the cave entrance. Shuffling to stand and exit, he instinctually turned, offering his hand to help San out before immediately thinking better of it. He pulled it back before the other prince could reach him in return.

Once San was outside the cave, straightening himself as best he could, he started trying to bat away the dirt on his body. Still, it was a lost cause. His tunic was torn and bloodied, his hair a wreck, his skin dirty and his eyes vacant. They were all a wreck after that terrible defeat, but it was obvious Sab would need a wash and clean clothes before they could continue on comfortably.

“I saved as many of your people as I was able,” Seonghwa started carefully, not wanting to make matters worse, but still trying to offer information he knew San would want to have.

He nodded absently, but didn’t ask any further questions.

“Follow me,” the older said, pointing to the ground. “Careful of the rocks.”

As Seonghwa led him back to camp, the sun was already setting in the distance, offering a beautiful backdrop to a grim reality. His father’s circle was gathered in the middle of camp with fresh meat rotating on a spit above the blazing fire.

“My son!” The king’s dark wings fluttered behind him, raising him up from the ground and putting him in front of his son faster than Seonghwa could sigh in relief. His arms wrapped around him and the prince embraced him back, but pulled away quickly, which Seonghwa knew he understood. King Joongil’s eyes darted behind Seonghwa and he was grateful for the care in his gaze. “Come here, child. Let us get you warmed by the fire and some sustenance in you, yes?”

San took his outstretched hand and allowed him to lead him to the ground. Seonghwa found a blanket nearby and wrapped it around San’s shoulders before sitting next to him as his father handed him a water skin.

Minho’s eyes met Seonghwa’s across the fire, and he nodded as if reaffirming his acceptance earlier, but then his eyes carried over to San. The look he gave him wasn’t exactly the acceptance the older prince was going for, but it wasn’t outright hostile as he had previously done either.

San drank deeply of the water and devoured any piece of jerky or fresh meat that was handed to him, all without saying a word. Deep purple half-moons, darkened further by the shadows of the rapidly falling sun, hung heavily beneath his eyes. Seonghwa wondered when he had awoken, if he had slept since, or if anyone had offered him help.

“It’s best we move as quickly as we can at first light.” His father might have been addressing him, but the entire circle surrounding the fire fell quiet to listen to his words.

The prince agreed, and they spoke about ways to make it across the desert with such a large group in tow. The Light Fae travelling with them, none of which had ever seen desert sands, were certainly not accustomed to the harsh environment. Not to mention it was the height of summer, and none of them had expected to be bringing a small group of Light Fae back with them.

“What if there are more?”

San’s sudden question stopped all conversation, and Seonghwa leaned into him in order to better listen and give him his full attention.

“More?” He asked, encouraging him to continue.

San’s bright lavender eyes were filled with worry as he looked into Seonghwa’s. “More survivors,” he clarified. “What if there are more survivors?”

King Joongil hummed next to him, obviously considering the question.

“We could leave a few behind, here on the mountain.” Seonghwa suggested.

His father stroked his chin. His suntanned skin glowed orange with the deepening sky.

“I would be willing to stay,” one of his father’s most trusted warriors, Junwoong, offered. “Keep a few faes with me.” He slapped his brother Ryunggu on the shoulder. “We can set up a camp here and rescue any Fae we may find. We can send back messages across the sands of our observations.”

Ryunggu dipped his head. “I would like to stay to help.”

“Thank you Junwoong, Ryunggu.” The king glanced to San, who hadn’t said another word as he listened to the exchange. “Having a healer on hand would be helpful.” He looked around the circle. “Find a few other warriors to stay with you, but the rest of you in this circle will need to take charge of a group tomorrow. Make sure we get everyone across the sands to Twilight as safely and quickly as possible.”

In the background, Seonghwa heard Junwoong and Ryunggu speaking quietly to each other. He’d be sad to see them stay behind—they were good warriors. But that only made them the best ones for the job of rescuing more traumatized survivors.

King Joongil tapped San’s knee. “Best to sleep with the sun this eve, for we’ll be waking as soon as she does.”

He didn’t mention what a long and exhausting day it would be, nor did he take the time to emphasize the amount of strain crossing the sands would put on his body, but Seonghwa saw the logic in his omissions. Worrying San further wouldn’t help matters, but a small part of him still wished he could prepare his mate for the gruelling journey ahead of them. Especially on foot.

“Come, I’ll get you settled.” Seonghwa jerked his head off to the side, indicating for him to follow him, but still wary of reaching out his hand to touch San directly. His magic was too volatile around the other, and he couldn’t risk it stirring again.

San rose from his seat, following him to the furs that had been laid out already. His bed for the night…and Seonghwa’s, too.

After getting him settled, Seonghwa pulled a fur over his shoulders, making sure he was protected from the cold. His body still shivered sporadically, though it had calmed down since those few beautiful moments the older got the chance to hold him.

“Try and get some sleep,” he whispered.

San’s hand shot out and gripped his arm over his clothing. “Please don’t go.” His rounded eyes stared into Seonghwa’s with such vulnerability.

The dark fae turned away and looked out beyond. “I don’t want to make you uncomfortable.”

He shook his head, tears finally welling up, though they still didn’t fall. “Please. Please, stay with me.”

Seonghwa nodded and moved to lie down behind him. He kept his body above the fur covering San, but allowed himself the small delight of curling in toward him. Even without their skin touching, his magic still sang at the nearness of his mate and his mind whirled with worry that it would lash out if he let his guard down. He couldn’t let that happen.

Keeping his hands to himself, Seonghwa hoped his presence and warmth would be enough to calm San, but if he needed more, he didn’t think he would be able to give it to him. Not without risking his life…and, maybe, his sanity. If Seonghwa’s magic ever hurt San, or worse, he didn’t think he would ever be able to forgive himself.

“Thank you,” the younger whispered as his body snuggled in closer to his mate.

It was strange and sad to see the defiant and stubborn fae he witnessed only just last night reduced to this. Seonghwa wished he could ease San’s concerns and hurt, but all he could do was be present and hope that his magic didn’t hurt him in any way.

This was the reason he never wanted to take a mate in the first place. He didn’t want to possibly hurt them. For as much as Seonghwa wanted to hold San, reassure him, love him…he couldn’t. Not without risking his life. The best he could do for him now was stay away.

Seonghwa almost scoffed at himself as he felt San’s body press deeper into his. Well, as away as he could stay, he would. Even if every bone in his body screamed otherwise. This was his sacrifice and punishment for having such a dangerous and abhorrent magic. Risking San wasn’t an option.

*****

Sand stuck to everything . Everywhere. Especially San’s hair, which he had given up on by this point. He didn’t think there was a single strand left that wasn’t caked in the gritty dust. They’d been travelling over what felt like endless sand dunes from before dawn to dusk, sleeping through the night and taking a break at the height of the sun each day.

Even after wrapping his head and face in protective fabric, San could still taste the hot grainy dirt in his mouth, a coating that wouldn’t wash away. His eyes ached from squinting and blinking away the dry heat and rough grains that assaulted his skin without cause or reason.

And to top it all off, his supposed mate seemed to be avoiding him. Seonghwa still slept beside him each night, but otherwise, it was a struggle to find him in their crowd. He moved about constantly, checking on others, making sure everyone had water.

It was a petty complaint because it was obvious that he cared a great deal. In fact, this supposed Dark Prince of Death was the exact opposite of what he was supposed to be. The thought both made San want to dip his head in shame of his preconceived assumptions and get angry at Seonghwa for not being what he expected.

Oh how San hated playing the fool.

“You pampered Light Fae would never make it across these sands if it weren’t for us.” Minho plodded next to him, making him wonder if his voice always sounded that irritated or if San was simply always the subject of his ire. “You wouldn’t last a day without our help.”

“Your point being?” The prince taunted, not wanting to engage with him any more.

Minho walked in front of San, forcing him to stop lest he run directly into the other’s chest.

“My point is that you and your pathetic leftover Light Fae would all be dead or enslaved without us. You should be grovelling at our feet and washing the sand from between our toes for what we’ve done for you.”

The words leftover Light Fae echoed around in San’s mind like a distorted dream.

He squinted up into Minho’s face. Between the hot sun and the raging sands, San wondered if his poor eyes would ever get the relief they needed. “You are a horrible mirror, Minho.”

Minho’s eyes narrowed as he looked down at him, but San continued before he could speak again. “You have successfully reflected back to me the way I behaved toward Dark Fae before I knew any of you, and now I see that it is the ugliest image.”

He tried to walk around the dark fae, but his hand reached out, snagging San’s shoulder covering and pulling him bodily into him.

“You think to somehow chastise me?” His hot breath hissed against the side of the prince’s face. “I would watch that mouth of yours if I were you.”

With those parting words, Minho released him, walking away in a huff and spraying up sand in his wake.

San snorted under his mask at the other’s little temper tantrum and hurried to catch back up with their small group of travellers. He knew Minho was Seonghwa’s closest friend, but he struggled to see the appeal.

He wasn’t lying when he said his actions shamed him. Knowing that San had spoken and thought much the same way before now felt like swallowing a thick stone. Everything he had believed about the Dark Fae had been false…even Minho, ill-tempered as he was, was nothing like the images that had been thrown into his head. Seonghwa and his father had been nothing but good to him. They’d helped and cared for him. Seonghwa had gone back and saved as many Light Fae from the palace as he was able. But just a week ago San could have never imagined such heroics from a Dark Fae, let alone the one they called the Prince of Death.

What rubbish.

If anything, Seonghwa brought life and care to everything he touched. How he ever received that horrible nickname was beyond San.

Without consciously thinking of it, his eyes wandered the crowd again, searching for the slender back he’d become so familiar with these days. Seonghwa walked at the front of their group, chatting with one of their warriors.

The older left his hair down, allowing the sand to assault his silky strands with a careless attitude San did not possess. San’s frizzy mess seemed to gather grains of sand like a sea sponge, while Seonghwa’s glossy locks seemed to move the grains through as easily as a stream of water. San decided right then and there that he hated the sand. It was settled. No more sand for him; this would be the first and only adventure with never-ending sand, sand, sand.

He studied Seonghwa’s lack of wings, the only Dark Fae he’d seen on this journey without them, and wondered what his magic was. No one would tell him—even the friendliest of his own warriors seemed clueless and merely speculative. The mystery of Seonghwa’s magic was beyond frustrating. Was it the reason he wouldn’t touch him? Because when the older last did, even through San’s fog of grief, he felt his magic sing with his. The feeling of it had been intoxicating. It would be very easy to become addicted to that feeling alone, which San supposed was a good reason for them to stay away from each other. If they didn’t, he might find himself reaching out to Seonghwa unconsciously far too often for his liking.

But they weren’t truly mates. It was obvious the dark prince was loyal to his people and their kind, and though he was an honourable male, Minho was right: San was still just a chore he’d been stuck with.

San hated that. He hated that even though he was an obligation, he still felt drawn to the other prince, pulled to him as if an invisible tether connected them.

Almost as though he could hear his thoughts, Seonghwa unexpectedly turned around, their gazes colliding. Caught in the act of openly ogling, San’s breath caught in his lungs. He tried to play it off by smiling and waving, but now the older was coming this way.

San grimaced at his awkwardness when Seonghwa sidled up next to him.

“Is everything well, San?” he asked, in that low serious tone of his that was far too disarming.

San did his best to wave him off. “I’m fine. I’m sorry I interrupted you, I didn’t mean…”

Seonghwa’s lips pulled gently at their corners. “I don’t mind. How are you holding up out here?” His dark eyes were trained on San as he asked the question, and the younger was grateful he couldn’t see the blush beneath his face covering.

“I’m all right.” San shrugged. “Though I can’t say the same for my hair.”

Seonghwa laughed outright at that, the first time he had heard him truly laugh, and he found the sound to be something he wanted to hear often. Seonghwa didn’t really look like someone who laughed often, but he certainly should be given the opportunity, at least.

“I can’t do anything for your hair until we arrive, I’m afraid.” Amusem*nt glittered in his eyes. “But I promise to have only the best and gentlest help you…clean up.”

San scoffed, reaching up to ruffle my locks, sending sand flying every which way. “I am fairly certain it's beyond saving at this point. I hope you don’t mind having a monster-headed mate for the rest of our days, for it seems that is what you truly signed up for.”

Seonghwa laughed again, a little quieter this time. “I will gladly take on your monster hair if it means…” He trailed off, eyes widening for a brief moment before he cleared his throat. “Forgive me. Would you like some water? I haven’t seen you drink for the last hour or so.”

“Have you been watching me, Seonghwa?” San teased, and the dark prince blushed. Even in this heat and with the added protection of his deeply tanned skin, San saw a hint of red tint his cheeks. Something about that colour made him immensely pleased.

“I struggle to keep my eyes anywhere but you.”

The seriousness of Seonghwa’s tone made him swallow thickly, tongue feeling far too large for his mouth at the moment.

“I…I could use some of that water now,” he sputtered out. The older effortlessly pulled the water skin up and over his head, handing it to San gently. He almost forgot to grab it, too enamoured with his languid movements.

Taking big pulls of water into his mouth, San tried to tame the swollen feeling in his throat. Something about Seonghwa completely unravelled him, and he wondered if he did the same thing to the dark fae.

Though San couldn’t manage to muster another reply Seonghwa remained by his side as they trekked on, and he found himself grateful for the latter's steady, silent presence.

They broke for the afternoon, setting up makeshift shelters to provide some protection from the direct sun while they ate their midday meals and caught up on their water intake. Much to San’s surprise, Seonghwa stayed with him this time, bringing over food and water for them to share.

It truly was amazing how prepared they all were for this kind of journey and weather. San had never experienced such hot temperatures before, or such a dry climate, but the Dark Fae weathered the terrain with such ease it was enviable.

Handing him a piece of freshly dried jerky, Seonghwa looked over San’s uncovered face. “The sun seems to love your pale skin.” The older reached up as though he was about to stroke his cheekbone, then suddenly thought better of it, pulling his hand back abruptly.

“Am I desperately red all over?” San leaned closer, both his skin and magic feeling drawn to Seonghwa. They still barely knew each other, and yet, San longed for his nearness.

He smirked slyly. “Closer to pink.”

San snorted and looked down at the sand beneath them before the dark prince could see him turn even pinker.

“Once we reach the palace, I’ll help you with an aloe regimen that should help soothe your skin.” He spoke softly while tracing the sand beneath them with his finger.

There wasn’t much room under each shelter; only three to four Fae could fit inside the allotted shade, and since Seonghwa was the prince, it was currently just the two of them. San was grateful he stayed with him today; it gave them a chance to talk. Connect a little more. He was taking him to his kingdom, after all, where San knew no one and assumed there were just as many rumours flying around about him and the Light Fae as there had been at the treetop palace.

The thought of his palace…his home, now gone…threatened to undo him. He quickly fumbled for a new topic to distract him.

“Is it like this around your palace?” San asked as he grabbed up a handful of sand and let the dusty granules run through his fingers.

Seonghwa watched the sand spill from his hand as he answered, “We built our palace along the only river in the area. That means we do have far too much sand, sorry to say…” His voice was amused as he spoke. “…But we also have an oasis of sorts that provides water, food, shelter, and shade for much of our kingdom.”

Looking down at his feet, San tucked his knees into his chest, pulling his legs close with his arms. “That actually sounds really lovely.” He chanced a glance over at the dark fae and found him already looking back.

“I do hope you’ll like it there.” Seonghwa’s tone was hopeful, eager even, but his eyes were filled with worry. “I want you to feel like it is your home, too.” He paused. “When you’re ready for that.”

The hope in his gaze threatened to swallow San whole as he nodded solemnly. This environment was so foreign to him. After living among the tall leafy and evergreen trees he had grown up with, with views of green for miles and miles from their tree palace, he couldn’t help but feel entirely lost in this setting, entirely lost without…

San shut that thought down quickly, placing his palm on top of the sand. “I can’t feel life here.” He didn’t dare look at Seonghwa as he made this confession. “The lack of it unnerves me, so I’m grateful to know there is some at your palace.”

“There is,” the older reassured him. “You’ll find some of the most vibrant blooms you’ll ever see.”

The light fae perked up at the thought of seeing and interacting with new flora. “Will you show me once we arrive?” he asked hesitantly.

Seonghwa leaned in closer, as if he couldn’t help himself. “I would love to show you everything.”

“Seonghwa!” Minho’s grating voice called out across the sand as he waved Seonghwa over to him, and San frowned, narrowing his eyes at the insufferable fae.

Seonghwa must’ve seen his face, because he gently nudged him with his shoulder. “I’ll go see what he needs, but I’ll come back.” The half-smile that pulled at the corner of his mouth made it impossible for San to look away as he nodded, half-smiling in return.

*****

“It’s beautiful.”

San’s eyes were filled with awe as he took in the sandstone palace for the first time. All he had seen so far was the arched entrance they stood within. But Seonghwa had to admit, seeing him mesmerized like this shot a sense of deep pride straight through him. He wanted him to love it here, to love being here, to love…

“It’s so big.” The words were breathy on San’s lips, making Seonghwa’s eyes dart there and hold for a second too long, before pulling his gaze away. Focused on the high rounded ceiling and the colourful blue tiles that framed each archway and window in varying patterns. The polished sandstone at their feet had been bleached by the sun and matched their ceiling, which had various blue tiles running across it in swirling designs imitating the night sky. And this was just the entry.

“Just wait until you see our room.” Seonghwa spoke low and teasing, waiting for that perfectly pink hue to dust San’s cheeks, but this time his lavender eyes confidently met his.

“I can’t wait.”

The older stood a little straighter, his tired limbs buoyed by the look San was giving him alone. Swallowing thickly, he ran a hand through his tangled, dusty hair. Small granules of sand clung to his skin, reminding him of how dirty they both were from their long journey. “I promise to give you a grand tour, but we should get cleaned up first.”

San dusted off his hands by clapping them together and he exhaled in relief. “Yes, please.”

Seonghwa chuckled. “Follow me.”

Winding through the palace, he took San up two flights of stairs and down the long, grand corridor that led to his suite. He hoped the light prince would be pleased with it. He knew their palace was nothing like what San was used to, but Seonghwa designed his space to be a haven, his own personal sanctuary away from the demands of palace life and politics.

Plus, it had a great view of the city.

Opening the familiar carved blue double doors, Seonghwa motioned for San to go inside first and followed behind, relishing the sight of the younger taking in the space that he had never planned on sharing, but somehow couldn’t imagine without him now.

“It’s so peaceful,” San whispered. The trickling sound of water flowed in the background from a cascading wall the dark prince had engineered to recycle from a small tub. The soothing sound eased his anxious body growing up, and he loved watching San’s face light up as he listened carefully. Moving around the lush green plants he had potted and set in key places to indicate room boundaries, San wove between the layers of gauzy drapes he had hung in between the sitting room, bedroom, and bathing area.

Seonghwa’s throat grew tight as he watched San gracefully sift through the silky fabrics. His bright, opalescent wings glinting in the diffused sunlight, his soft skin caressing each gossamer layer of fabric. A long-buried part of him deeply ached to be that gentle material brushing across his skin, cascading over his delicate knuckles…

He cleared his throat. “A few maids will be bringing water in for a bath, if you’d like to freshen up first. I’ll do my best to find you some new clothes as well, although I’m certain my mother is already collecting an entire new wardrobe for you.”

“Mother?” San questioned.

The dark fae nodded. “My mother remained behind, but don’t let my father fool you. She’s the true ruler here. The palace would not run without her.” He half-smiled, hoping to bring a smile to San’s face as well. But instead the younger had a distant look in his eyes. Seonghwa wondered if he was thinking about his own mother and, as had become Seonghwa’s daily wish, he wanted to somehow be the one to ease that pain.

A light knock on the already-opened door revealed a few maids ready with pails of water. The prince waved them in and moved out of their way so they could fill the private tub. He didn’t use his private bathing area often—the communal one was far easier to use and more accessible—but he didn’t think San would be ready for that experience quite yet. They seemed to do things much differently in Aurora.

Seonghwa backed out of the room to give San privacy. “I’ll leave you to it, then. Please feel free to take your time, and I’ll be back to check on you in a little while. If there’s anything you need, don’t hesitate to ask.” He gave an expectant look to the maids assisting with filling the tub, and they all nodded in understanding.

San looked grateful, but his face grew wearier by the minute. “Thank you, Seonghwa.”

The maids all gasped—surprised that San had used his first name instead of an honorific. But that was the way the prince wanted it with him. Relaxed, easy, intimate.

Without hesitating a moment longer, Seonghwa turned and strode out of the room, closing the double doors behind him in pursuit of his own bath.

The pool was already overrun by all the warriors washing off the endless dust and sand that coated them everywhere. A few males stood around the tall sandstone columns drying off, while others sat in the water at the edges talking. A few servants darted back and forth, making sure the drying cloths were properly stocked and there was water and tea readily available.

“We made decent time.” One of the males spoke as the prince entered the area.

“Were there any issues?” Seonghwa questioned, and all eyes looked up at him as he peeled his crusted garments off him before slowly striding down the steps into the cool pool.

“A few of the Light Fae struggled with sun sickness,” another one answered.

“Yet no one perished.” Minho rolled his eyes. “It’s incredibly shocking just how fragile those Light Fae truly are.”

Seonghwa shot him a look from the side of his eye. “They are unused to this climate and environment. If you’d grown up where they did, you’d be just as green.”

His mouth quirked, but he moved on quickly. “And how’s your wilting flower of a mate? Complained the whole way too, did he?”

The prince picked up an olive-oil-based cleaning bar at the edge of the pool and began scrubbing himself as he answered. “He didn’t complain even once.” He raised his eyebrows in Minho’s direction trying to make his point. “Perhaps you were hearing your own echo.”

Several of the males in the room laughed; everyone knew Minho grumbled more than most. Even Minho himself cracked a smile, thrusting a hand over his heart in mock offence. “Surely I don’t sound half so catty.”

“No, you hiss like a desert snake…only twice as obnoxious,” said one of the other males, who quickly became the target for a merciless dunking into the water by Minho.

“He’s quite the beauty, your mate,” yet another declared, and heat crept up Seonghwa’s neck that had nothing to do with lingering sun-scathe.

“He is.” He scrubbed the bar directly into his hair, building up a heavy lather to help remove the ingrained granules. San was far more handsome than he’d ever anticipated or expected, but he made no additional comment. He knew his warriors were fishing for gossip, but they would get none from him.

Continuing to wash in silence, Seonghwa allowed the males to converse on their own, sharing stories to help them process the utter defeat they had experienced in Aurora. Unsurprisingly, Minho slowly floated up next to him after his tussle was soundly won. Relaxing back against the edge of the pool, he pulled his elbows up onto the stone to rest. “I’m sure your mother is eager to meet him.”

“I haven’t even seen Mother yet, but I imagine she is.” Dipping his head under the water, Seonghwa rinsed thoroughly before popping back up to give Minho his full attention. “I have a feeling Mother is going to fall in love with him.”

“You mean more than you have?” Minho raised a brow at the prince.

“I’m not…”

“You are,” he interrupted. “It’s written all over your face.” He let out a long sigh, looking up at the ceiling. “My best friend, in love with a Light Fae. Never thought I’d see the day.”

“Minho…” Seonghwa warned yet again but the other fae raised his hands in submission.

“It just means I need to get to know him, too.” Minho smiled and snorted out a huff of air. “So touchy, you are.”

Seonghwa settled in next to him, careful to still keep his distance while his skin was this exposed. “You never know. You might fall in love, too.”

Minho laughed, the sound echoing harshly across the long arched ceiling. “I think that would cause far more problems, don’t you? Unless you’re the sharing type.”

The prince wrinkled his nose. “You know what I mean, scoundrel.”

“You need not worry about me, my friend. But I am not the one who needs to fall in love with him. Introducing him to the kingdom will be your most difficult task yet.” Minho hesitated, then dropped his voice. “I’m not the only prejudiced Fae in the kingdom, you know.”

Seonghwa nodded solemnly. “I have faith they will come around, but it may take some time.”

“Your Highness?” His attention shifted from Minho back to the warriors in the pool. Most were lounging now, allowing the cool water provided by the river to soothe their aches and pains. “What’s our plan if the humans come here?”

“My spies will catch wind of any rumours before they ever come close,” Minho responded confidently. “It would be a fool’s errand, anyway. Most would die just trying to get across the sands.”

The warriors looked somewhat mollified, but a hint of worry still strained their eyes.

“Our environment does allow our kingdom to be much more defensible,” the prince answered positively. “Not to mention there was no sign of any humans following us that night. We should be safe, but we’ll be training and recruiting more warriors soon in order to be more prepared.” He sighed. “If we have learned anything, it is that these humans should not be underestimated.”

They nodded in agreement with him, but the atmosphere was far more sober now. They had never fought humans with their iron before, and the results had been devastating for everyone. Loss of life would never be easy, but to lose in such a terrible and frantic way clouded the mind with doubt and helplessness. There was no combatting that beyond grieving, healing, and recuperating.

The humans wanted to enslave the faeries’ bodies and their magic, either using them to their advantage or removing them from the world entirely. There was no middle ground with them. No peace, no compromise. They had moved in and conquered. No one could even call what they did to Aurora a war…it was simply a massacre.

Pulling himself back out of the pool, Seonghwa grabbed a drying cloth from the readily available stack nearest him and tied it around his waist.

“Off to see that pretty prince of yours?” Smirks and elbow nudges under the water abounded from the males still lounging in the pool.

He smirked to the group, picturing San freshly bathed and dewy from the water, but didn’t answer as he picked up his dirty clothes and walked out of the bathing area, simply waving his hand upon exit.

Playful taunts and hollers followed him out the door, fueling him to get back to San even quicker. He hoped he had given the younger enough time, because he was finding it more and more difficult to stay away from him for long. Seonghwa knew he would never be able to be that closely intimate with him, but in his mind’s eye he felt San’s welcoming softness, a gentle touch on his arm, hand in his.

Knocking on the double doors to his room, Seonghwa heard no reply as he cautiously let himself in.

He listened carefully for the sound of water sloshing in a tub, but beyond his fountain, he heard no sound at all. In fact, it was far too silent. Anxiety quickly rose as he dropped his dirty clothes and hurried to the bathing room, stopping short in the bedroom, where he saw San’s blonde hair. The light prince stood in front of his own reflection, brushing out each individual strand with his fingers, a bowl of oil sitting on the table next to him.

He wore nothing but a silk robe that Seonghwa was sure the maids had provided for him, and though it might have covered him, it hid…very little.

The older’s tongue suddenly swelled two sizes too large for his mouth, and when he tried to swallow, it lodged in his throat. San’s soft, startled gasp only made it worse. He turned to face Seonghwa, suddenly rosy-cheeked as he watched San’s eyes rove over his exposed, towel-clad body.

Seonghwa attempted to close his eyes, trying not to imagine the luxurious image before him, but still his body was not cooperating.

Did San have any idea how beautiful he was? How elegant was his body? How entrancing his pale skin was as it glistened with oil?

His magic sang powerfully beneath his skin, pushing him toward San, willing him to touch the younger, hold him…kiss him.

I do not have the strength to resist this temptation.

Within a mere heartbeat, Seonghwa stood before him, gaze trained on his lips. He wanted to reach out and touch him. How had he suddenly gotten so close?

Their breaths mingled, and San’s eyes grew languid, lazy. Seonghwa sucked in a ragged breath, immersing himself in the fresh scent of San. Blooming lilacs. He knew for a fact they didn’t carry that scent in any of their cleaning bars, so this scent was entirely San’s own. Delicate. Perfect.

Seonghwa’s hand reached up to cup San’s jaw as if it had a mind of its own, and his breath caught the minute their skin touched, narrowing his focus to the blond’s full pink lips.

San’s mouth opened in a gasping inhale, and his gaze flashed to the older. Bright lavender eyes, half-hooded and glittering in the diffused light.

“San,” Seonghwa whispered San’s name just over his lips, and he responded in kind by moving his lips and closing the gap between them.

Lost to the sensation of San’s pillowy lips, Seonghwa barely noticed his other arm twinning around the other’s waist. His breath hiccupped as Seonghwa deepened the kiss, tentatively tracing his tongue along the shape of San’s mouth. San opened for him and he ventured inside, careful, unsure of his movements. This was, after all, his first kiss. No one had ever wanted to kiss the Prince of Death, lest they lose their life in the process.

Lose their life…

The thought echoed somewhere in the back of his mind. San’s breath hitched again as his tongue carefully caressed his, and then he softly moaned. The sound alone reverberated through Seonghwa’s entire body, lighting up every corner of his soul. He needed more, he needed…

Death.

A soft glow illuminated from behind his eyelids and Seonghwa opened them, immediate panic overwhelming him at the sight of his hands glowing as they touched San’s perfect, fragile skin.

No.

Seonghwa ripped both hands away from San’s skin as if he had been burnt. The younger’s panicked eyes met his in sharp alarm. He must have seen the desperate terror in his eyes.

“Seonghwa? What is it? What’s wrong?” San tried to move closer, but he couldn’t…

A scream echoed in the back of his mind.

Was he screaming? Had I hurt him?

San’s eyes roved his entire body, searching desperately for injury.

“Seonghwa?” San’s voice mixed with the voices in his mind, colliding in a horrifying mishmash of past and present. Seonghwa couldn’t tell which was real, and he shook his head as he backed away further.

“Don’t.” The dark prince choked out, holding his glowing hand up.

“Seonghwa, what did…did I do something wrong?”

His voice was so sad.

Seonghwa, what did you do?

Their faces were so sad.

So many tears.

“Stay away from me!” Seonghwa backed away further until his back hit something. Black spots dotted the corners of his vision and he turned away from the room, stumbling through the gauzy drapes to the double doors just beyond.

“Seonghwa!”

Seonghwa! What did you do?

No, no, no. Not San, not him…

He ran.

Stumbling and tripping, he ran as quickly as he could away from San. Desperate to get away, to keep him safe.

I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to.

That was the last thought Seonghwa had before his memories overtook him in terrified screams and horror-filled stares.

Not again.

Please, not again.

Chapter 4: The inevitable attraction

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 4: THE INEVITABLE ATTRACTION

Seonghwa didn’t come back, and San couldn’t understand what had happened.

Had he done something wrong? Was it because of his heritage?

Was it because of his magic?

The way Seonghwa wore his gloves and was beyond cautious when touching him. The way he seemed to always keep his distance from others. His lack of wings. . .

San knew the rumours. He noticed how others stared and gossiped about him. Was he afraid San would not accept him for who he was? Maybe he could prove it to him, maybe he could—

A soft knock on the double doors had him shaking out his swirling thoughts as he rose from the bed. Cinching the silken robe tightly around his waist, San clutched the fabric close to his chest as he answered the door.

A beautiful woman with luscious, long black hair, angled golden eyes, and honeyed skin stood before him, beaming with a contagious soft smile.

“You must be San.” Her voice was like warm milk, soothing and rich.

“I am.”

“I’m Ryeon, Seonghwa's mother.” Not the Queen —Seonghwa’s mother.

San loved her instantly.

He smiled hesitantly but looked back at the empty room. “I’m afraid he’s not here right now.”

She smiled knowingly. “I know, dear. I’m here for you. May I come in?”

Shocked she would even ask in her own palace, San pulled the door wide and stepped aside. “Of course! It’s your palace, after all.”

She nodded in response, but a dark look of concern briefly fluttered through her eyes before she blinked it away with her long black lashes. “I hope you don’t mind, but I took the liberty of gathering some clothes for you to wear. The seamstress is here to do any alterations you may need as well.” She moved through the door with a grace San could only hope to possess one day and waved her hand for several maids to filter into the room, carrying what looked like swathes of luxurious, colourful, airy fabrics.

Leaning in to him, she mock-whispered, “You may have noticed our climate is a bit different than what you’re used to.”

San laughed through his nose. “It wasn’t obvious at first, but I noticed eventually.”

She laughed outright, and the sound was like the warmest bell chiming melodically. “Come take a seat with me while the maids set up.” Ryeon moved across the space to a beautiful divan with exquisitely carved details depicting the legs and head of some sort of large cat. The cushion on top was coloured simple white and far more comfortable to sit on then San had anticipated.

San sat next to her, still gripping his robe above his chest, not wanting to be too indecent in front of the Queen. She carefully gathered his free hand in hers, her honeyed eyes tenderly gazing into San’s. “I’m so incredibly sorry to hear about Aurora, and your family.”

San’s eyes watered, but he still refused to cry, as if there was a physical block inside his eyelids.

She continued, “I want you to know that this is your home as much as you want it to be, and that I’m available to you any time you may have the need of a companion.”

San swallowed down the lump building in his throat. “Thank you.”

The Queen’s gentle tone and welcoming nature reminded him of his own mother, but he couldn’t think about that right now. Instead, he allowed the distraction of trying on new clothes to occupy his focus. There was no sense thinking of things he couldn’t change.

After the dress fitting and a bite of lunch with the Queen, they walked the halls back to Seonghwa’s bedroom.

“I would give you a tour…” Ryeon started, but was interrupted by a deep voice from behind them.

“If I may,” Seonghwa wound his way in front of them, his stance was still confident, but slightly more unsure than normal. “I would like to request the honour of giving you a tour.” He paused, bowing slightly before San. His eyes briefly glanced to San’s before darting away again.

“Superb idea.” Ryeon’s eyes shone with amusem*nt. “I’ll leave you two to it.”

Seonghwa began strolling next to him, replacing his mother as she excused herself down the hall. His gloved hands stretched out as if they were aching at his side before he carefully entwined them behind his back; he cleared his throat before speaking again. “There’s a courtyard out back that I thought you would enjoy seeing. Plus the throne room, where my father holds court and meets with the folk.” He wound San down the long hall, turning away from the direction of his room. Pulling out one of his hands, he motioned down the hall. “But this way, you will find the communal baths. It’s where most of us bathe.”

“Both male and female?” San questioned.

Seonghwa’s hand tucked back in behind him as his eyes darted down to San’s. “Yes.”

San must have reacted visibly to that knowledge, because the older’s mouth pulled gently to the side in amusem*nt. “You will find that we Dark Fae do not worry much about our nudity.” He leaned in slightly, mock-whispering, “When you live in this kind of heat, you quickly forget modesty in favour of cool relief.”

San’s cheeks heated at the sound of softly splashing water.

“This is where I normally bathe,” Seonghwa added, standing tall by San’s side again. There, but confusingly distant.

The bathing area was open—no closed doors, just an oversized archway lined by the beautiful blue tile that spread out in an intricate design above the door. Inside was a huge bath filled to the brim with water.

Several faes were already relaxing on the sides of the pool, while a few others were washing up. Quiet conversations muddled together in the stunning cavernous space. The ceiling was high and domed, with plenty of beautiful natural light shimmering against the water from tall windows on the opposite side of the room, masked by lush greenery.

Picturing himself bathing with Seonghwa in this space, along with all the others, not only made his face heat, but something thick and heavy stirred in the pit of his stomach.

“If you would prefer to bathe privately, you are more than welcome. There is no pressure to come here,” Seonghwa’s rich tone whispered softly against San’s ear, making him nearly jump out of his skin.

His eyes met Seonghwa’s concerned gaze, and he tried to stop picturing the older in here, unclothed, his beautiful skin glistening in the water…San’s imagined image of Seonghwa suddenly morphed into the memory of him in the room last night, standing so close, wearing only his towel.

San swallowed. “I may have to work up to this,” he confessed, hoping to get his mind back onto the task at hand instead of allowing his imagination to run away.

The dark prince nodded and gently moved him along down the hall before taking another left-hand turn that led to a bright, open courtyard. The vegetation outside looked much like the big bright green leaves he had seen shading the windows of the bath.

San’s whole body lit up with excitement as he rushed over to inspect the foreign flora. Vibrant, gorgeous colours from pink to yellow and purple to white were held in the most unique and ornate shapes he had ever seen. The flowers alone were like something out of a dream, and he couldn’t contain his delight as he took in the bright hues mixed in among the luscious varying tones of green.

“This is one of my favourite places.” Seonghwa smiled softly, circling behind him. “I have a feeling this might become one of your favourites, too.” Seonghwa’s hand brushed San’s lower back with a featherlight touch that made his entire body ignite before he continued rounding the space. It was enclosed by sandstone walls, but open to the sun above.

Finding a sandstone bench carved directly from the wall, Seonghwa sat down, observing the foliage surrounding them. “I harvested a few of the plants in our room from these.” He thoughtfully stroked a large green leaf next to him.

“You have done a wonderful job keeping them alive and thriving in your room,” San replied, loving the idea of him cultivating and caring for a plant from infancy.

The older prince looked up and over to him at those words, a pained expression creasing his brow, before lowering his head. Resting his elbows on his knees, he folded his hands under his chin as if deep in contemplation. The dark, loose sleeves of his shirt fell back with the movement, showing off his forearms.

“Forgive me, San.” His words were gravely and strained as he spoke. “I cannot explain my behaviour last night, but I can tell you how utterly sorry I am for leaving you so abruptly.”

San moved across the courtyard to sit next to Seonghwa, his body tensing up as the younger laid a hand on his shoulder, before he melted under San’s touch.

“Why didn’t you come back last night?” San questioned.

Seonghwa sighed. “I should not have kissed you like that—”

“I wanted you to kiss me,” he whispered quietly.

Seonghwa’s head shot up and he looked him directly in the eye, gaze searching, longing, wishing for something San couldn’t decipher. He sucked in a slow breath, chest rising with the added air as his body naturally leaned towards San’s. The light fae found himself leaning toward him in response, but Seonghwa suddenly stopped, clearing his throat again before pulling away. “My father is hosting a banquet in honour of our union tonight. It is the first chance I will be given to introduce you to the Dark Fae folk.” His dusky eyes softened. “I am eager for them to meet you.”

San nodded. “That sounds lovely.”

Seonghwa stood. “Minho will escort you to the banquet hall tonight, but for now, would you like to continue our tour?”

He held out his gloved hand, and San eagerly took it. “I would love to.”

*****

Out of nowhere, there was a solid knock on the double doors. The person seemed in a hurry—he opened the door and let himself inside without permission.

“Excuse me!” San exclaimed.

Minho’s smug face appeared. His well-groomed dark hair stared back at the prince. “You’re excused,” he said haughtily. His eyes ran up and down the length of San’s body in slow perusal. “It looks like the Queen got to play dress up with you.”

“She was very generous,” San murmured.

Minho smirked, “Indeed.” Moving closer, he arched one sardonic eyebrow up. “She did always wanted a daughter. I suppose you’ll do.”

San grunted in a very un-prince-like manner, but this fae had a way of getting on his nerves like no one else, and grunting was better than throttling the fool.

“How graceful,” he deadpanned in response.

San rolled his eyes. “Are you here to escort me to dinner? Or are you merely stopping by in an attempt to annoy me into an early grave?”

“Out of those two options, I do have a personal preference,” he teased, “but considering Seonghwa is waiting for us, I suppose there isn’t much of a choice.” He stood next to San, offering his arm. “It feels unnatural to see Twilight clothes on you, but I must admit, you do look lovely in that colour.”

At home San preferred pastel tones and flowing strips of fabrics layered one upon the next. But this suit was all about the draping. It accentuated his broad shoulders and thin waist perfectly by having one large long panel of flowing, silky fabric carefully draped around his waist, chest, and between his wings. The maids had also added accents of gold and silver and gems, making him sparkle no matter which way he moved.

San must admit, he relished every shimmering moment.

“Thank you,” he offered in reply to Minho’s surprising compliment. Not that he truly trusted the dark fae was being honest, but he appreciated the gesture nonetheless.

“Shall we?” He wiggled his elbow, and San reluctantly latched on before he led him back out of the room and down a long corridor that led to a set of stairs and then another long hallway.

San sucked in quiet, anxious breaths, hoping Minho wouldn’t hear him. He felt so entirely lost in this place. Without his trees to use as markers, he wondered how he was ever going to find his way around these stone halls, which all looked exactly the same.

My trees…

They were gone now. He knew it, even if he had not seen it with his own eyes. his home, his forest, his family…all burned to the ground by greedy evil humans.

“San?”

Had he truly realised it yet? Or was it only just hitting him right now? Everything he knew was gone.

My home, my family, my friends, my kingdom.

“San.”

I tried.

He had tried to save it. To save them. To help…

“San!”

San’s whole body startled as he stared up into Minho’s dark, angry eyes. His palms gripped the prince’s upper arms.

Had Minho been shaking him?

“Wha-what are you…” San trailed off as Minho’s gaze bore into his. His eyes had hints of green in them. A deep, rich, vibrant green you couldn’t see until up close.

Maybe that wasn’t anger this time, after all.

“Are you well? Do you need me to take you back?” he demanded.

San shook his head. “What? No. I’m-I’m fine.”

Tilting the prince’s chin with his curled finger, Minho looked into his face. “You are not fine.”

San cringed and tried to pull away from him, but Minho gripped his chin with his fingers.

“You are not fine, and that’s all right.” His voice deepened, and his grip gentled a bit. “It’s all right to not be fine for a very long time to come. What you have experienced,” he raised a hand to pull on a loose strand of hair, “is terrible.”

“Minho?” Seonghwa’s beautiful, low voice sounded behind Minho, and San felt his body freeze at first before softening as he released San’s arms and turned around to face the dark prince.

“San was just struggling with recent events.” Minho moved away from him, bowing briefly. “I’ll let you take over from here.”

Seonghwa shot him such a look as he left that had it been a dagger, it would’ve stabbed straight through to the bone.

“Are you all right?” Seonghwa approached San. His steps were cautious and slightly withdrawn. “Did he upset you?”

San shook his head. “I’m fine. I think I just got lost in my own thoughts and startled him.”

Seonghwa’s face softened. “That is understandable.” He paused, looking back at what San guessed was a very full room waiting for them to enter. “If you need to return to our room…”

“ Our room?” San challenged.

His brow bent inward. “Yes. I thought that was—”

“It just seems odd to call it ours, as you haven’t seemed too keen on sharing it with me.”

Seonghwa actually had the decency to look sheepish. “I’m…it wasn’t…I didn’t mean for you to—”

“It’s fine, Seonghwa. Let us go before anyone misses us.”

Seonghwa leaned in, still not too close, not like they were last night, but the movement brought his body close enough to feel his warmth. “You look really beautiful tonight, San.”

San knew he was being sincere, but his mixed signals were whipping San’s emotions about, and he found he did not like it one bit.

“Seonghwa, I—”

“Let’s get you inside,” he interrupted. “The folk are eager to meet you.”

The folk were probably less eager to see him, per se, and more eager to see the sole surviving heir of the Light Fae. Either way, San was here now, and he knew this was what was expected of him…of Seonghwa’s mate.

But Minho’s words echoed in the back of his mind uncomfortably: “ You are not fine. ”

Sucking in a deep breath, San allowed Seonghwa to lead him through the double doors, utterly unprepared for the mass of bodies inside the cavernous space.

You are not fine.

*****

San’s eyes met his for what was probably the twentieth time since they sat down to dinner, which really meant he couldn’t stop stealing glances at him. Seonghwa was so conscious of his nearness, his warmth, his sweet scent, that he could barely focus on anything else. San was the sun and he was the moon hanging on to his light, unable to look away as they quietly circled one another without speaking.

Seonghwa was sure his actions were tremendously confusing, but now was neither the time nor the place to discuss such matters. Not that he wished to when he couldn’t tell San the truth anyway.

His magic had reacted so quickly to San, violent in its surge to the surface, but he looked perfectly unharmed. The beautiful emerald tone he wore complimented his pink skin and brought out the purple in his eyes. Combine that with the metallic accents that wistfully chimed with his every movement…and he was the sheer essence of distraction.

This was precisely the reason Seonghwa needed to stay away. San made him lose himself, forgetting all reason, and that was when terrible tragedies occurred. He couldn’t lose his focus or his control because lives hung in the balance—San’s in particular, since his magic seemed drawn to the light fae.

But Seonghwa found himself nervously wondering if San would forgive him for running out on him. If he would understand his half-truthful excuse for leaving.

The dark prince couldn’t tell him the full truth, of course. He couldn’t tell anyone. His own parents had told him to conceal his magic, to do his best not to feel it or interact with it in any way.

Keep it hidden, keep others safe.

His eyes drifted to San’s again, and when San caught him staring this time, he raised his brows in silent question. Seonghwa couldn’t help the sly pull at his lips; San’s wide eyes were so expressive. Looking back down at his half-eaten food that he was now just pushing aimlessly around the plate, Seonghwa shook his head. It wasn’t like he could say Forgive me, San, for so thoroughly enjoying my very first kiss that I lost all control of my magic, which put you in the gravest of danger, and now I can never touch you again.

Seonghwa had a distinct feeling that those words would not go over well.

Better to simply ignore it and pretend it didn’t happen. Which was wishful thinking, because he also knew San wouldn’t let this go until he had some answers. Seonghwa simply didn’t have many answers to give him.

Distracting himself by looking out at the banquet set before them, the prince watched the Fae sitting at their low-lying tables, enjoying their meals from the floor cushions and pillows spread out on the ground. The royal table sat at the front of the grand room, but they were no more elevated than the rest of the folk, symbolising their commitment to equal treatment.

Wary eyes darted up to them, and Seonghwa wondered if San would recognize that he received just as many wary looks. They had yet to discuss the rumours that surrounded him, but he was certain San knew of them already. It was nearly impossible not to. And though his parents had always tried to calm down the suspicions and wariness, the Fae still seemed set on being terrorised by even the mere mention of him.

Deep, sultry drums started beating in a slow rhythmic pulse. The signal everyone had been waiting for at the conclusion of dinner. Bodies shifted from the low-lying tables to standing as the tables and cushions were pushed off to the sides, making room for the dancing and celebration that would come next.

It was tradition for the Dark Fae to enjoy a revel as a group, but there was so little Seonghwa knew of the Light Fae that he worried this might be out of San’s comfort zone. The dark prince had worn his gloves this evening to help provide him the physical reminder to keep a wrap on his magic, but it barely seemed to matter when his magic stirred from just the nearness of his mate.

The Queen stood up from her seat and walked over to him, softly swaying her hips with the music while Seonghwa stood to greet her, offering her a kiss on each cheek.

“Doesn’t San look lovely this evening?” She asked, making certain San overheard the question.

Seonghwa looked down at the table where San still sat, looking unsure as to what he should do as he watched the crowd of Fae begin to sway to the centre of the room, some partnering up already, others enjoying the music by themselves.

Meeting his mother’s eyes, Seonghwa gave her a look that said, You already know . “Fishing for compliments? Because it’s true, the colour you picked out for him this evening is beyond…”

“Words, apparently,” she interrupted, “since you seem to have spoken absolutely none since sitting down to dinner.” Her elegant brows were raised in gentle rebuke.

The prince swallowed down his excuses; they would find no ground with her. Her eyes narrowed on his face, then snagged on his gloved hands, currently wringing out his fingers in worried anticipation.

“We’ve always been too hard on you.” She covered his gloved hands with her warm palm, speaking softly now to avoid San hearing. “But you should enjoy yourself too. He’s a beautiful fae, and your mate now. It’s all right to let go a little.”

“I wish it was that simple.” Seonghwa stared down at his gloved hands, remembering the many nights he had desperately wished for his skin to be touched, hugged, embraced. The familiar gloves helped remind him not to lose control; it had taken him years to even get to this place, where he could kiss his own mother without fear of losing control.

Queen Ryeon squeezed his hands once before letting go. “Well, you can at least dance.” She winked at him before smiling gently at San, then walked back to where his father now stood. Both of them swayed their hips together, and San moved to stand from the ground, slightly awkward in his movements, clearly unused to rising up from such a low position. Seonghwa immediately reached out a hand to help him up.

“What’s happening?” San asked as his small palm gently slid into Seonghwa’s larger one.

“A revel,” the dark prince answered. “We’re celebrating our mating and our return to the kingdom, as well as honouring the lives of those we lost in the battle with the humans.”

He watched the crowd of Fae move and sway to a fresh rhythm, and Seonghwa carefully pulled his hand back, though he desperately wanted to stay connected to his mate.

“We used to have our revels around a large fire in a clearing,” San whispered.

“I was worried you wouldn’t know what a revel was. I’m glad to hear you celebrated as well.”

His pink lips pursed forward, and Seonghwa’s gaze dropped straight to the source as a deep jolt of longing lodged thick and heavy in his stomach. To know what those lips felt like against his own was now the cruelest torture.

“Father always made a big announcement, and then everyone would dance and laugh and…well, Mother always made him head back up to his room before anything got too crazy,” he added slyly.

Seonghwa chuckled, trying not to picture exactly what San was talking about. “It might get like that tonight as well, but you and I may leave whenever you would like.”

“Will you be leaving with me?” San questioned slowly…the intention clear.

Offering back out his hand, Seonghwa omitted a response, but instead countered his question with one of his own. “Would you like to dance?”

San’s eyes brightened as he slid his hand over the older’s and swayed gently to the beat, sliding closer and closer to his body before whispering, “Eventually, I will get you to tell him what happened last night.”

“We shall see,” Seonghwa whispered back before spinning him out and pulling back again.

They made their way slowly to the group of Fae already dancing as the beat picked up and shifted again. This tune required more twirls and bounces through the music. Seonghwa couldn’t help it; his eyes stayed glued to San’s form. He laughed and smiled and danced and spun as they shared partners, each new one offering a little something different to the dance.

After a few more rounds of this, the females gathered together and pulled San in with them before showcasing specific dance moves to show their culture to the Light Fae.

All the males clapped and smiled appreciatively. The women of his kingdom were beautiful, sporting straight or wavy hair, skin in various shades from fair honey to deep umber, and all sorts of deep. San stood out like a brightly polished emerald, even amid the beautiful women. His platinum hair styled down and bounced around his pale pink skin. His white gossamer wings shining brightly in the room amongst the deep grey or purplish tones in the blackened wings of the Dark Faes. There was no way San would ever blend in among the Dark Fae, but Seonghwa didn’t suspect he was ever meant to blend in anywhere.

Once the song ended, the females took a seat on the floor, clapping and calling out to the males who now followed the King’s lead, imitating his moves to entertain their pretty guest.

Seonghwa could feel San’s eyes on his every motion and smiled whenever he looked up to meet the younger’s gaze directly. He clapped and laughed, and seeing him amongst those of his kingdom, enjoying himself, shot hot pride straight through Seonghwa’s core.

At the end of their dance, several faes found their partners for the evening, and Seonghwa saw many hesitate near San. They knew he was mated to the prince, so they maintained their distance, but he could tell they were curious. Curious was good; Seonghwa would happily be the object of their fear as long as that did not extend to San.

A slow and deeply rhythmic song played next, and Seonghwa was terrified to make San uncomfortable, but he also wanted to show him that though he ran out last night, it was in no way because he had wanted to run from him .

Quite the opposite.

Seonghwa turned him steadily until San’s back was to his front and he was able to wrap an arm around his waist. His gloved palm centred in the middle of San’s stomach, pulling him in tight. From this position, it was easy for their bodies to sway in tandem. The dark prince buried his nose into his mate’s curls, savouring that perfectly sweet lilac aroma that radiated naturally from him, and his other gloved hand slowly caressed up San’s arm.

San sighed, melting into the older, and Seonghwa practically groaned in agonised want for him.

Did he know? Could he tell? Even after Seonghwa ran out on him yesterday, was his attraction obvious? He wanted it to be obvious; Seonghwa needed San to know that he was already more to him than a simple kingdom arrangement.

“The first moment I saw you,” Seonghwa whispered low into San’s ear, relishing the shiver he received in response, “you stole my breath away. Just as you did last night, and now tonight. I was not expecting to ever be quite this lucky when it came to an arranged marriage.”

San inhaled sharply, but somehow pressed even closer into him.

“You are not merely an obligation to me, San.” He continued. “I want you to know that I feel…more.”

Turning his head as far back around as he was able, San placed a soft, fluttering kiss on the edge of Seonghwa’s jaw, and his eyelids fell closed at the exquisite contact.

Did he know what he did to me? Did he understand how much it meant to be touched in such an intimate way without fear?

San’s warm breath brushed over his neck, causing his skin to shiver. “When I first saw you, I thought you were the most handsome fae I’d ever seen.”

The music and tempo changed in the background, but neither of them moved, opting to stay just as they were, swaying together in perfect tandem.

“I couldn’t believe I found a Dark Fae male attractive,” San teased as he kissed just below the older’s jawline.

Seonghwa shuddered as his body responded to San’s touch again. “And to think I’d want a spoiled Light Fae prince—”

“Do you, Seonghwa?”

His question jarred Seonghwa from his revelry. “What?”

“Do you want me?”

His breath caught in his lungs and refused to move either in or out.

Did San realise what he was asking? Did he understand the longing that pulsed inside Seonghwa’s veins? Could he ever understand his hesitancy, or would he simply feel rejected?

San turned around to fully face him, keeping the dark prince’s arm around his body. His lavender eyes looked bright with hope as they radiated with his magic.

“You said we could leave when I wanted to?”

He said it like a question, but instead of answering him audibly, all Seonghwa could do was nod dumbly.

Grabbing the hand from around his waist, San unwound them and pulled him instead toward the exit archway. His eyes were glued to the older’s, half-hooded in desire that sparked an aching want he could not deny.

Trained panic wanted to rise within him, but it surprisingly remained still the longer he looked into San’s eyes. He was Nature’s beauty incarnate. Seonghwa had told him he wouldn’t touch him until he asked him to, and he’d already broken that rule last night, but now… now , he had a feeling he’d be the one asking to touch him.

Seonghwa’s blood pumped hot and thick in his veins, willing him forward with every step becoming more and more urgent.

The dark prince took the lead and led them down the halls, back toward their room as San’s delicate, opalescent wings fluttered behind him. Even in the dim light of night, Seonghwa could still see the faint purple hue that glowed in the darkness.

Pushing open the blue double doors to their room, the older shut them soundly behind them, barely getting a chance to turn around before he was there .

His face, his body, his hair. San was everywhere at once, touching him, kissing his skin, his clothes, his lips. The ravenous need he had for the younger flared to the surface. He was glad for the reminder that were his gloves, the minute they touched San’s skin, he willed his magic to calm before it could rise to the surface like before.

San pulled at his loose shirt as Seonghwa kicked off his shoes. He was insatiable, intoxicating, wickedly determined. The older barely had a chance to think, which was exactly what he needed at that moment. It was as if San knew he would need the distraction of urgency.

Undressing San was like revealing the greatest gift ever given to him. Seonghwa wanted to know the taste of his skin, to feel the light prince’s soft pale curves against his body and allow that sweet scent to fill his lungs until he could breathe nothing else…

…And for the first time in his life, Seonghwa let himself go.

*****

San jolted awake, his heart pounding for some unknown reason. Seonghwa was still fast asleep. His dark brows were relaxed against his serene face. Seeing him asleep like this was the first moment he’d truly seen him at peace. San brushed a finger carefully along his mate’s high cheekbone, pushing a strand of black hair from his face.

It was so easy being with him. San had been honest last night when he told the older that he was the most handsome being he had ever seen. What he had omitted was that he had been instantly drawn to him…and it had terrified him even more.

Last night had not terrified him at all. It had felt right, like when San used his magic for the first time. Natural. Beautiful.

Who would have ever thought that San would have trusted, relied on and… loved the Dark Prince of the Fae? Nature had an incredibly odd sense of humour. Looking at him now, peaceful in sleep, San could not help the feeling that his heart might explode from his chest. Even amidst all the sorrow, somehow Seonghwa made him feel lighter.

Pulling himself carefully out of the bed, his bare toes tapped mutely against the polished stone floors as he trotted off to the private bathing room for a quick refresh.

Unlike the night before, Seonghwa did not run away or hold back during their first coupling. San had to pinch himself to believe it was all real.

The tingling sensation in his belly travelled up through his lungs until it was dying to burst through his mouth in a delighted giggle.

I can’t wait to tell Mother about…

His thoughts died.

It was as if he’d forgotten. How could he have forgotten?

The sound of rustling outside in the main room had San hurrying before he darted out, not wanting to miss out on the chance to talk to Seonghwa.

A clammy hand clamped over his mouth, and San screeched in fear as an arm banded around his middle. He kicked out his legs to try and jar the assailant off him, but they held firm. Not speaking a word.

Movement caught his eyes, and through the gauzy drapes San saw a darkened figure standing over the bed…over Seonghwa.

NO!

San screeched through the hand covering his mouth, throwing his body this way and that, his teeth gnashing. The figure over Seonghwa raised his arm, and a flash of metal caught on the faint, pale light of dawn. Pulling roughly on his magic, San drew vines and limbs from all the various leafy plants growing in their room, aiming every last one at the assailant hovering above his Dark Prince.

The attacker started shrieking in fear as vines wrapped around him, pulling at his arms and choking at his neck.

Seonghwa jolted up with a shout, and the figure holding him rushed for the open balcony. San screamed and kicked and threw his weight about as best he could, but the man lifted him into the air, limiting his motions even further.

He never uttered a sound, not even a grunt or break from his voice.

A heavy thud sounded behind him. San screamed and screamed until his throat was sore, praying to Nature that it hadn’t been Seonghwa’s body he heard.

In less than a breath, his captor was running—and then San was on the ground, rolling painfully across the floor. Blinking his eyes open, he saw Seonghwa holding the assailant by his neck. He was wearing all black, but San could see no wings on him. His eyes were wide in fear as they stared into Seonghwa’s face, desperately clawing at Seonghwa’s arm. That was when San saw the older’s hands…they were grey, void of colour, skin clinging to his bones. They looked…

San gasped as the colour leaked from the man’s face. Grey, lifeless skin crawled up his neck, his cheeks, his forehead. His eyes were frozen wide in terror even as Seonghwa dropped him and ran to his mate’s side. But San’s eyes were still glued to the male. His arms and legs, even his facial expression, were all frozen in time, yet not actually frozen. It was almost as if…as if the life had been sucked straight out of him.

“San,” Seonghwa whispered, reaching out for him.

San flinched. He didn’t mean to, but Seonghwa jerked his hand back.

San’s gaze caught on his. He must have shown his fright, because Seonghwa looked positively horrified at the look in his eyes.

“Is he…” San started to ask, but he already knew the answer.

Seonghwa looked down at his hands, his face contorted in some kind of pain. “They’re both dead. I need to warn the others.” Without touching him, Seonghwa rose from the ground. “I’ll send someone to take care of them and make sure you are all right.”

Wait!

San meant to say it. But the word couldn’t seem to make it from his mind to his mouth.

Without another word, he left.

Seonghwa left.

Was San in shock? Was it something else? He couldn’t really tell as he gathered his knees up to his chest and started rocking his body back and forth, staring at the dead man in front of him. And it was a man. The way he lay there now was far too obvious. This was a human.

Humans had infiltrated the palace.

Curiosity wanted him to go inspect the man further, but fear kept him frozen in place.

They call him the Prince of Death, because death follows him wherever he goes.

Was this what they meant? Was this what they referred to? This mummified, leftover husk was what happened if he touched someone? Was that why he wore gloves?

Why Seonghwa was so afraid to touch him ?

San’s mind swirled with questions, and his body shook in fearful spurts.

This was Seonghwa’s gift.

The gift of Death.

Chapter 5: An unforeseen addition

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 5: AN UNFORESEEN ADDITION

The horrified expression on San’s face was now seared into his mind. Every time Seonghwa closed his eyes, he could see the terror written across San’s face.

Terrified of me…terrified of my hideous magic.

He could not blame him, but he didn’t want it to end like this. Not after last night. Not when he had finally felt free and at peace for once in his life.

San feared him now. He had flinched at his touch like so many others.

Images from their coming together last night flashed in his mind’s eye. San had been so open, so willing, so hungry for his touch…and even in trying to save him, save them both, Seonghwa had tarnished forever San’s image of him, just as he had tarnished the image of himself so many years ago.

The prince raced around the corner and pounded on Minho’s door. After some rustling followed by a soft feminine tone, the door opened. Minho was shirtless, his loose pants askew from the rush to put them on.

Before he could even ask or throw a sarcastic comment his way, he started in. “Humans have infiltrated the palace. Wake everyone, get our warriors up and at the ready.”

His friend’s mouth hung open in shock before he shook his head. “I’m on it.”

Seonghwa nodded once, leaving him behind as he raced to his parents’ room.

Banging on the door, he did not wait for a response from them. If humans were in the palace, they might have headed straight for the monarchs, just as they did him.

Barreling inside, Seonghwa called out to his parents, who both startled awake from their bed. He released a relieved sigh and briefly told them what had happened even as he checked the room thoroughly for intruders, but there was no sign of anyone having come here.

“Seonghwa.” his mother’s hands shook as she reached out for him, her elegant brows dipped in worry, but he pulled away. He wasn’t wearing his gloves, and his magic felt out of control and desperately hungry. “You must go be with San, I’m sure he’s terrified—"

“I’m needed elsewhere, will you go to him?” The prince asked and she nodded, grief flashing across her discerning face. Seonghwa turned, heading back out into the hall before calling over his shoulder, “Take several warriors with you.”

Minho had been busy; the palace was filled with activity now. Warriors were being ordered to search the palace and check for intruders. Upon first light, Seonghwa knew they would be checking the surrounding areas as well and warning the kingdom of the threat at hand.

“How did the humans get here without any of us knowing? Past our warriors left behind, and your scouts.” The King stared down Minho, but Minho shook his dead in deep concern.

“I don’t see how they could’ve gotten past. The only way would’ve been if…”

They all knew what that if meant, and Seonghwa didn’t want to think about the warriors they left behind having died at the hands of these human cowards.

The prince shook his head. “That’s not the only way. It could simply mean we have become too lax out here in the desert, assuming the humans too weak to survive this climate, underestimating them. We cannot do so again; we need to be ready for them this time.”

His father nodded. “We will be setting up patrols day and night from now on.” He turned to his son. “Go brief everyone on what has happened and put a captain in charge of managing the new schedule.”

Seonghwa dipped his head in agreement and headed toward the courtyard, where several warriors were gathering. Many were still off checking the palace; it was going to be a very long morning at this rate.

Minho’s strong grip paused him mid-stride before turning the prince toward him. “You must tell me what happened.”

Seonghwa relayed the story, including San’s terror, and Minho stroked his chin.

“So they were going to kill you, but not him?” He questioned.

Seonghwa shrugged. “It seemed they were trying to keep him intact, but it was difficult to know for certain.”

“And you saw no one else?”

The prince hesitated. He had not even thought to look, to double check that the room was empty or see if anyone waited below the balcony.

He froze where he stood.

He had just left San there, with that terrible horrified look in his eyes.

He had left him alone.

Seonghwa turned to rush back to the room, but Minho caught his arm again. “You already sent your mother with warriors. I saw them leave myself. He will be fine. Calm down, Seonghwa.”

He took in quick gasps of air, doing his best to remain calm as he mumbled something else under his breath, too low for Minho to hear. Swallowing thickly at his horrendous oversight, Seonghwa silently cursed himself for just one more blunder with San to add to his ever-growing list.

Locking eyes with Minho, he added a sinking thought that was slowly filtering through the fog of shame clouding his mind: “I don’t understand how they keep getting past us. Are we truly so careless with this clear threat?”

The other scoffed. “I don’t know how you can think they are a clear threat, they’re human—“

“They just took over the Light Fae kingdom, destroyed the tree palace, and have nearly eradicated them entirely.” Seonghwa got in his face. “Do not dare be so conceited as to believe they are somehow not a threat.” He pointed a finger in the general direction of his room. “If San had not stopped my assailant with his magic, I would be dead. Iron blade lodged directly into my heart.”

Minho raised a brow, a sly smirk pulling at his lips at the same time. “So, you and San, then?”

Exasperated, the prince threw his hands into the air. “That’s not the point!”

“But it is a point. One you’d never reached before last night, my friend.” He clapped him on the back, declaring, “I’m incredibly happy for you. Welcome to manhood!”

His announcement was followed by several quiet titters from the faes nearest to them. Seonghwa brushed his hands through his hair and growled at him. “We have bigger things to discuss.”

“Well, I’m not one to judge size, but if you say so.” Minho nudged him playfully with his elbow, and now the titters grew to desperate attempts at muffled laughter.

The prince rolled his eyes, still feeling frustrated, but he understood what his friend was trying to accomplish. There was no need to worry anyone more than what was already present. Seonghwa tended to be too stark and serious, but Minho had always been his balance with his light and carefree attitude. Minho tended to run far hotter than he, but could also diffuse a situation quickly when needed.

Following his lead, Seonghwa started laugh. The warriors around them joined in immediately just as Minho flashed him a brilliantly arrogant smile.

“You’re lucky you’re my friend,” the prince glowered.

“Oh, I know.” He winked and then sauntered off to the growing crowd of warriors.

From this courtyard angle, Seonghwa could just barely see the balcony from their room. Nothing looked askew. A few warriors were circling it, looking for clues on the ground. He kept hoping that somehow he’d see a glimpse of San, just to reassure him that he was fine. But he did not appear.

After tonight, Seonghwa would not blame his mate if he decided to never speak with him again. The loss of his trust and openness would be warranted.

What if I had done the same to him last night as I had done to our assailants this morning? What if the next time I touched him or held him in my arms, he shrivelled away, turning into a dead husk like those men?

It would be better to endure the pain of never feeling San’s touch than to ever risk his life like that again. Seonghwa had been careless, selfish, thoughtless.

San was a radiant light, and he was never-ending darkness.

Where he was Life, I was Death.

And Seonghwa would never put him at risk again.

*****

“He means well.” Ryeon rubbed gentle circles on San’s back. After the scare of the evening, Seonghwa had not come back, but he had sent someone to see to the dead men, just like he’d promised.

“I flinched away from him,” San confessed. Agony clutching at his lungs as he remembered the dark, horrified shadow that ran through his mate’s eyes. “But it was not him I was afraid of.”

San stared down at his palms, wondering what it must be like for him to have that kind of power. How frightening it must have been.

Pulling his hand into hers, Ryeon gently squeezed before responding. “When Seonghwa was still a young boy, not yet ten years of age, he was playing along the river with a friend from the village.” Ryeon’s warm and steady voice easily pulled him into the story and out of his own troubled mind. “His gift hadn’t manifested yet, but his friend was already well along in his study of magic. He had the gift of communicating with animals. A truly miraculous and rare gift. That day, as he and Seonghwa were playing along the river, his magic fully matured. Seonghwa had never witnessed someone get their wings before, and he was terrified…”

Suddenly the prince knew where this story was headed, and he longed to hear a different one.

“He rushed to help his friend,” Ryeon continued, “but his hands began to glow for the first time. So mesmerised with his own magic, he didn’t notice what was happening at first…” She paused, taking in a ragged breath of air. “The boy shrivelled and died under Seonghwa’s touch.” She shuddered. “It was such a terrible sight.

“His father and I…we were terrified of it happening again, of how people would treat our boy. We were far too hard on him after that. We never called his magic a gift, because it felt more like a curse. That’s what he has believed all these years.”

Raising a hand to his mouth, San choked back tears. “After that, we made him wear gloves to buy him time in case of an accident like that happening again. We wanted him to suppress the feeling of it and hopefully learn to control it. But for a while, it got worse. His magic ran wild, and he began killing anything he came in contact with. Animals, plants, and almost one of our warriors, but he pulled back in time for the warrior’s life to be saved. That’s why he ran from you. He’s…he’s so afraid of hurting anyone else.”

“I had no idea.”

She stroked San’s cheek, using his thumb to wipe something away. “He cares for you. Far more deeply than I think even he realises yet.” She smiled then. “You were supposed to be a spoiled Light Fae prince that he wanted nothing to do with.”

San huffed out a small laugh. “I might still be that.”

The smile that lit up her face was warm and kind. “You are so much more.” Kissing his forehead, she rose from the bed. “Warriors will be posted outside the room if you’d like to try and catch some more sleep. If not, feel free to come join us for breakfast whenever you feel up to it.”

The prince watched her walk through the gauzy curtains that hung around the room, dividing spaces with their feathery lightness, but he didn’t get up to follow or get ready. Seonghwa’s story repeated inside his mind, followed by a deep and unquenching loneliness. Coming here, he had somehow felt less alone with Seonghwa by his side, but after today he felt nothing but his mate’s acute absence.

San missed his mother, his father, his kingdom, for he knew they weren’t coming back; just as he knew that Seonghwa might not either. Not now that his magic had been revealed.

That was when his tears finally fell. Deep, heaving sobs of utter despair wracked his lungs.

Whether it’s true or not, the name must follow him for a reason. San’s words came back to bite him, and he hated them for their ignorance.

Seonghwa was the furthest thing from a monster. He was his mate, and San needed his mate.

*****

Wiping a weary hand down his face, Seonghwa tried to ignore the warrior next to him shooting worried looks in his direction.

“You’ve been out here every night these past weeks, Your Highness.” He motioned with his eyes back to the palace. “Wouldn’t you rather be inside?”

With your new mate?

The second question wasn’t spoken, but it didn’t have to be spoken to be heard. The questions were already circulating: Had anyone seen him with the other prince since that night? Was Seonghwa avoiding his mate? Was San avoiding him? The gossip sparks had flown, and there was no stopping that fire from catching.

The truth was that he missed San terribly, but he couldn’t bear to see his face. After that perfect night with him, Seonghwa greatly doubted his strength to resist being near his mate without reaching out to touch or hold him close. It was best to keep his distance, to keep San safe. He would rather have a raging bonfire of gossip than ever see San’s dead and lifeless face before him.

They had not seen the terror in San’s eyes when he looked up at him that night. They had not witnessed the horror of his magic.

The prince shrugged in answer to the warrior next to him, but remained unmoved.

There were no more signs of humans near or around them. Over the past few weeks, they had scoured the city, searching for any clues that humans might be hiding somewhere, but there had been nothing.

Seonghwa still had no clue how they got in so easily, though he highly doubted he would ever be able to forget San’s muffled screams. They echoed every night in his dreams, waking him to a cold sweat. Alone. Watching him be physically carried out of the room to the balcony was an image he wished he could erase from his mind. The scene tormented him even during the day.

I have failed him in so many ways.

“Seonghwa!” Minho bellowed out from somewhere behind him. He didn’t bother turning around. His reprimanding tone told the prince everything he needed to know. “You need to get back inside, go see that pretty mate of yours. You’re spending far too much time out here keeping watch.”

He sighed, looking down at the small granules shifting around the weight of his feet.

“Will you go check on him for me?” Seonghwa asked, like the coward he was.

A signature Minho scoff followed his words rather than agreement, and when Seonghwa looked up, his eyebrows were raised in disbelief. “You truly want me to go check on your pretty mate?”

His eyes narrowed at the other. “Do not say it like that,” he practically growled at the words.

A slow, wide, knowing smile stretched out across Minho’s face. “I mean, I’m more than happy to check on your pretty mate any time you’re too…busy.”

Seonghwa gave him a small shove. “Come off it. I get it.” Rolling his eyes, he lowered his voice. “I know that I should go, I just…”

Minho knew his past, his secret, his death magic that was no gift at all. He knew what a big deal it was for him to have truly taken a mate, but he also knew his fear.

Clapping a hand over his shoulder, Minho gave a little squeeze, all humour and taunting falling away. “I understand, my friend. I’ll check in on him tomorrow. It’s almost nightfall, and I don’t want to disturb his rest.” Still gripping his shoulder, he gave it a little pull. “At least come inside and eat something.”

The prince nodded and turned to let the warriors know he’d be headed in for the night, but they all instantly shooed him away. Minho’s deep laugh echoed on the steps of the palace as he followed behind him to the dining hall, where San was noticeably absent.

Walking over to the main table, Seonghwa dipped down to give his mother a kiss on the cheek before sitting next to her.

“Did San already eat?” He questioned, even as his eyes searched the crowd again.

A worried look passed over her eyes before narrowing in a glare toward her son. “He was feeling under the weather today. Though it is no surprise. It has been some time since he has seen his mate .”

“I know,” Seonghwa murmured. “I’m sorry, Mother.”

She arched a brow, “Do not apologise to me, silly boy. It is he who needs to hear it. Avoiding him for this long has been your choice.”

“I know.”

“Well, now. Eat up, and then you should go see him tonight to make sure he is well.”

The prince nodded and immediately looked down at his food, shame heating his cheeks.

Entering his room, their room, Seonghwa heard no sounds.

“San?” He asked cautiously as he pulled back one of the gauzy drapes that separated this room from the bedroom, peeking his head inside.

San’s curled-up form was on the bed, but he offered no response. No welcome. No glance in his direction.

He did not blame him one bit.

“Are you well?” Seonghwa questioned as he approached the bed carefully. “Mother told me you were feeling under the weather.”

San flashed him his beautiful lavender eyes, full of pure annoyance. The little pout on his face mixed with his irritation was almost too adorable, and the older nearly messed up entirely by smiling warmly at him.

“You did not need to come check on me,” he sulked. “You could have easily sent someone else to inquire as to my well-being, as seems to be your new pattern.”

San’s petulant tone did nothing but make Seonghwa want to laugh, crawl into bed with him, and hold him close to his heart.

“I’m sorry, San.” He pointed to the edge of the bed next to him. “May I sit?”

Pursing his lips, San nodded, scooting back a little to accommodate the other prince.

Seonghwa stared down at his gloved hands, wondering how to start. How did he tell San about this vicious curse? How did he discuss his darkest secret with the one person he was most afraid would hate him for it? How did he tell San that he could never let go with him again?

“San, I…” The words lodged in his throat, strangling his voice.

San reached out a hand, but this time it was Seonghwa that flinched away from him.

“I’m not afraid of you, Seonghwa.” His voice was soft, but his tone was firm.

Seonghwa’s eyes darted to his in disbelief.

He couldn’t have possibly just said what I think he just said, right?

San’s big, round, beguiling eyes held the older in a trance he could not break free from. “I’m not afraid of you,” he repeated. “You saved me that night. You saved yourself, and I have not even been given the chance to thank you for that. I understand that your magic is deadly. Death itself even, but it is still your magic, Seonghwa.”

He scooted his body to a more upright position, leaning his head back against the ornately carved headboard. “I know why you are terrified of your magic.” His gaze met Seonghwa’s. “Your mother told me your story.”

The dark fae swallowed thickly, clenching his jaw in response. “It wasn’t hers to tell.” And she had likely softened it, knowing her, trying to make it seem as though he was anything less than a monster.

“I think she knew I needed to understand,” San offered carefully, “And I did. After you left me here, I stared at that dead man for what felt like hours.”

Guilt and shame came crashing down on him in heavy waves of remorse.

How could I have forgotten the emaciated body I left behind? How could I have just left him behind like that? Especially after we were attacked, right here in this room?

Seonghwa’s head fell into his hands. He had failed San again. He could not dare look at him now.

San’s warm palm gently settled atop his. “None of that, now,” he quietly rebuked. “I will admit, witnessing your magic is a terrible thing, but benefitting from it was the exact opposite. I’m so grateful you were there, that you woke up in time to…” his voice trailed off. Pulling the nearest hand away from his face, San clutched it in his and then, oh-so-gently, began to pull at each finger of the glove.

Panic seized Seonghwa’s chest, but he did not stop him. He could not. He wasn’t sure he could deny San anything anymore. “What are you doing?”

“I’m doing something my mother taught me.” He kept pulling at the fingers of the glove until it slipped off Seonghwa’s hand completely, and he laid it gingerly next to them on the bed.

Brushing his warm palm over his mate’s, San allowed their skin to touch, and Seonghwa hissed with discomfort and fear. Then he moved the older’s hand slowly up to his face. As Seonghwa tried to yank it away, he held him firmly until the skin from his palm caressed his cheek.

“Do you remember that night before the assassins came?” he asked.

Seonghwa’s eyes bored into San’s, and he struggled to not see the image of his mate kicking and screaming as he was physically carried off. “Of course I do.”

He moved Seonghwa’s hand to the centre of his sternum, and he could clearly feel the steady beat of San’s heart.

Seonghwa’s magic was death itself, and the way he channelled that magic was through his hands. One of which now hovered over his mate’s heart. Just when it was nearly too much for him, San released his hand, and he quickly scooped it up into a protective embrace against his own chest, searching for the abandoned glove on the bed.

“Why did you do that? Why would you risk yourself like that?” Seonghwa snapped, incensed that San would be so careless with his life.

San gave him a look, as if searching for a truth he couldn’t find.

“I did that to show you that you are in control of your magic.” He looked pointedly at him. “Nature gifts us with what she needs and what we need in this life to come. What you have is a gift , Seonghwa, not a curse. The more you treat it like a curse, the more it will behave like one, but when you embrace your magic and acknowledge your control over it, that’s when it settles.”

Seonghwa quirked an eyebrow at him. “And how could you know this?”

His cheeks dusted slightly with a rosy hue. “My magic felt out of control when I was younger too. I feared that I wouldn’t be able to stop growing things and that I would somehow hurt someone or wrap us all up in vines so thick we’d never find a way out.

“So my mother grabbed my hand, much like I just did to you, and guided it all around her face, her neck, and her heart. At the end of the lesson, she told me that was all the proof I needed in order to know that I was in control of my magic.” San looked at him again, a little more vulnerability in his gaze this time. “She told me that because I really loved her, I would never hurt her.”

Seonghwa shook his head. “But I did hurt my friend. I—"

“You were only a child, discovering your gift for the very first time. I have yet to meet a child who was in control the very first moment their magic manifested.”

He stared at San in utter disbelief. “How can you even bear to look me in the eyes? I have failed you in so many ways, San. I am not a fit—”

“You are my mate, Seonghwa. Is that not what you have said to me over and over?” His wide eyes were bright with sincerity. “You saved me from the humans twice now. You stayed with me when I asked, holding me when I was afraid, even though that must have terrified you. You brought me to your home and made me feel welcome. You have cherished and honoured me with your actions. I require nothing from you…” a sly look glittered in his eyes, “except an extravagant apology for ignoring me for weeks .”

Seonghwa laughed in spite of himself, and San smiled wide before a hesitant look darkened his eyes “And your presence,” he added softly, looking down at his twisting hands. “I need you with me.”

The shake in his voice dropped the older to his knees. He reached for San’s hands with both of his, even the ungloved one, and looked up into the younger’s sorrowful eyes already spilling over with emotion. “Forgive me, San. Forgive my cowardice and stupidity. Forgive my fear and mistakes. I…” he stumbled over his words, all of them pouring far too quickly from his mouth. “I love you.”

San’s eyes widened, tears freely spilling over the edges of his eyes now. Pulling his hands away, he sunk lower onto the bed and tapped the spot next to him in invitation. Seonghwa stood up to lie down beside him, taking San’s hands in his again and pulling them to sit over his chest, just as he had done earlier.

“Please forgive me, starlight,” he whispered into San’s hair.

“I forgive you, Seonghwa.” The soft kiss San left on his neck had him instantly pulling his mate closer.

San’s reaction to him had been the exact opposite of everyone else he had ever known or loved. He had not baulked at his horrifying magic; instead, he embraced it, choosing to encourage him and call his magic a gift instead of a curse.

The feeling of acceptance was strangely heavy and uncomfortable. It carried responsibility with it, some demand that Seonghwa live up to what San saw in him. Emotion tried to sting his eyes and tighten in his lungs, but there was a lightness as well. A deep relief, hidden inside his chest, as though he had found something he’d once thought lost to him forever.

*****

The next morning San awoke with a terrible churning stomach and had to rush to the private bathing chamber in their room. He went to bed that night without joining dinner again, which seemed to be his new habit for the next few nights until Seonghwa became too worried and sent for a healer to figure out what was wrong.

San had never been sick. Fae rarely got sick. They barely aged, and even that depended heavily on how much they used and pushed their magic to its limits.

Seonghwa had reason to worry. So did he.

“Do you mind if I lay my hands on you?” the healer asked while San lounged in bed. “It helps me assess anything out of place.”

“Not at all. Thank you for your help,” he replied.

The healer’s hands glowed softly beneath his palms, and a warm, calming sensation spread over his skin, helping him relax.

“You’re the first Light Fae I’ve met.” The healer’s hands continued his perusal, moving from San’s chest up to his head while he spoke. “I’ve been told so many stories about the Light Fae’s prejudice and selfishness, you are a pleasant surprise.” He paused. “Forgive me, I…”

“Please,” the prince reassured him, “don’t worry yourself on his account. I was taught and told horrible things about the Dark Fae that I have very recently discovered were entirely false.”

Some of them were also true… San smiled to himself at that thought.

“I was incredibly spoiled growing up,” he continued. “My parents never made me want for anything, they even—"

San cut off the words abruptly, looking away as his eyes watered. The pain of his parents’ absence hit him unexpectedly, shattering all his thoughts.

“I’m so sorry for all of your losses, Your Highness.”

“Thank you.”

His face was pinched tight in concentration as his glowing palms moved fluidly over San’s stomach. Then a flash of shock widened his eyes as they darted to the prince’s.

San must have had a confused and panicked look on his face, because the healer quickly softened his features and calmly asked if he could sit next to him.

“Your Highness, have you and Prince Seonghwa mated recently?” He asked the question carefully, obviously not wanting to insult him if the answer was no.

San nodded slowly. “We have.”

A sudden joyful glimmer enveloped his entire face. “Then I have some very good news for you.”

San’s mind reeled with possibilities, but he didn’t understand where the healer was going with this. What was he implying? Why did he have that look? He’d been sick! That was not a joyous thing, that was a…

“You’re with child, Prince San.”

Everything froze.

Even the trickling water from the fountain stopped sounding as the words resonated inside his skull.

You’re with child.

That couldn’t be. He must have been mistaken. They mated only once, and then they were nearly killed afterward. This could not be.

His mind wrestled with the statement. He must have looked shocked, because the healer reached out to grab his hand, holding it softly.

“This is such a blessing you’ve brought to us,” he continued. But it was wrong. All of this was so wrong. San couldn’t have a child—he was barely out of childhood himself. He didn’t even have a mother to teach him how to be one! He needed his mother. He needed…

I need…

Uncontrollable sobs sprung forth from his mouth. There was no warning, no build-up, just the empty insides of a child longing for parents that had been cruelly taken from him.

It was in that moment, a moment that should have been full of joy, that San felt his deepest sorrow and loss.

Everything he knew had been taken from him. Everything that made him comfortable and secure was gone. Destroyed.

San didn’t know when he came or how long he’d been there, but suddenly Seonghwa was holding him in the bed. He turned him so San could cry into his shoulder. His gloved hand cupped the back of San’s neck.

He was lost to his grief. Every cry relieved a new facet of loss he had been holding in. He screamed into his mate’s shoulder until his lungs ached. He wept until his tears dried out. He begged for a mother who never came.

Because she couldn’t.

She was gone.

San had known, but he hadn’t known , not really—not in a way that mattered. Not until he cried and cried and cried for her, and still she never came.

His mother always came when he needed her. Always. And if she did not come to him now…

Seonghwa held him through it all.

San’s eyes blinked open to a darkened room, but he felt Seonghwa’s presence immediately. The older was still wrapped around him, both of them having dozed off.

The light fae sniffled harshly, and Seonghwa startled awake. His dark, entrancing eyes popped open and immediately searched for his gaze.

“San?” he whispered, gently brushing a gloved hand across his cheek.

San couldn’t help but lean in to his touch.

“Did the healer tell you?” He asked.

Seonghwa nodded solemnly, pinching his eyes closed. “Forgive me, starlight,” he murmured. “I did not mean to…I did not know…”

San couldn’t fully understand what he was saying, but the pain lining his face made him want to reach back out and calm the older in return. “Seonghwa, why do you—“

“I know I am a monster,” he breathed. “I would never ask you to keep…”

Shock and realisation tore through San’s mind as his words slowly processed.

“No, Seonghwa,” San admonished, grasping his mate’s face with both of his hands. “Don’t you ever think for one moment that I don’t want to have this child with you. Don’t you ever think it’s because of you that I’m crying. I have always wanted to be a mother, like my mother…”

He choked on the word, barely getting it out, and Seonghwa’s eyes widened. His brooding eyes flickered back and forth between his, searching for answers.

“What are you saying?”

This time San’s cry was mixed with a harsh laugh. “I always thought I’d have my mother and father with me when I came to be with child, but they’re…they’re gone, and it all just came up. Everything I’ve lost since coming here. Everything I wish I still had.”

His voice was a broken and hoarse mess, but he could tell the words sank in as Seonghwa’s features softened to his confession.

“I’m not at all sad to be having a child with you,” San whispered.

The choked cry that echoed in the room wasn’t from him this time, it was from Seonghwa. He practically pounced on San, hugging his body even further into his own, kissing his face and head all over.

San laughed and did his best to kiss him back. When their lips met in a teary and messy rush, he changed pace, slowing everything down to savour the moment.

Their shared joy and sorrow slowly morphed into something entirely different, something hungry and wanting. Seonghwa’s body was warm and heavy above San’s. His gloved hands moved carefully up and down his frame until the younger snagged each hand in his, carefully removing the gloves. His kisses went from elated to heated. And the rest of the world disappeared again as San became lost in his embrace, his passion, his…

“I love you, my starlight.”

The words sizzled up and down his spine, warming him from the inside out.

San never expected to fall in love with the Prince of Death, but when the words came out, they felt right, complete, whole.

“I love you, Seonghwa.”