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In a well-known kingdom, the land of Erauri lives a kindhearted alpha King Kim Namgil and his beloved omega Queen Park Sora. They were blessed with a son, Kim Namjoon. Later he was coronated as the Crown Prince when he was nine years old.

However, when he was presented as an omega at the age of sixteen, a chaos erupted in the palace. It was a fact that only an alpha can be a King. As such, to ensure that his son is capable to reign the kingdom in the future, the King had raised his prince as an alpha, equally trained to be a great future King and a fierce army in the battlefield. Prince Namjoon is not less than an alpha King should be. He was talented and intelligent, having all the traits as an alpha.

But he is still an omega. The enemy will consider him as a weak King and it is a major threat to Erauri. Concerned with the peace of the kingdom, the King wanted to marry off his omega prince with an alpha prince. To help his son to reign Erauri. The King held up a search for a competent alpha prince, gaining the attention of the Princes from various kingdom to participate. For them, Erauri will give great power and wealth to their land. It's a great opportunity for them to expand their territory and army's strength.

They were given a month to show their specialties and abilities before been chosen as the mate of the Crown Prince. Prince Taehyung and Prince Seokjin were in the quest to win the heart of the omega prince. They were enemy at the battlefield as well as the love war. They tried their best to win the heart of Prince Namjoon. Both Princes had their own agenda by winning the contest. Prince Namjoon is the ticket to their own ambition.

Unknown to them, one alpha prince had caught the attention of the Crown Prince since their first meeting. But who? Will a love blossom between the two?

This is a saga of a Crown Prince's journey to be a great King with the help of his alpha Prince.

© 2018 usagithesailormoon ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Chapter Text

“ᴺᴼ ᴹᴬᴺ ᶜᴬᴺ ᴹᴬᴷᴱ ᴴᴵᴹˢᴱᴸᶠ ᴷᴵᴺᴳ, ᴮᵁᵀ ᵀᴴᴱ ᴾᴱᴼᴾᴸᴱ ᴴᴬᵛᴱ ᵀᴴᴱ ᶜᴴᴼᴵᶜᴱ ᵀᴼ ᶜᴴᴼᴼˢᴱ ᵀᴼ ᴬˢᴷ ᵂᴴᴼᴹ ᵀᴴᴱᵞ ᴾᴸᴱᴬˢᴱ; ᴮᵁᵀ ᴬᶠᵀᴱᴿ ᴴᴱ ᴵˢ ᶜᴼᴺˢᴱᶜᴿᴬᵀᴱᴰ ᴬˢ ᴷᴵᴺᴳ, ᴴᴱ ᵀᴴᴱᴺ ᴴᴬˢ ᴰᴼᴹᴵᴺᴵᴼᴺ ᴼᵛᴱᴿ ᵀᴴᴱ ᴾᴱᴼᴾᴸᴱ, ᴬᴺᴰ ᵀᴴᴱᵞ ᶜᴬᴺᴺᴼᵀ ˢᴴᴬᴷᴱ ᴴᴵˢ ᵞᴼᴷᴱ ᴼᶠᶠ ᵀᴴᴱᴵᴿ ᴺᴱᶜᴷˢ”

“Your Majesty, Latvia has sought for our military help. They have requested for a battalion to help them in the battlefield. They are willing to give us more tribute money, as much as we want,” the Chief of the Royal Court said, presenting his case before the King.  

“Send our army to aid them in the battlefield. We need to arrange another tribute since they have paid the tribute money, no need for extra tribute. We have promised that one part of our peace treaties is providing the army in the battlefield,” announced the King.  

“Much obliged, Your Majesty.” 

“Anything else?”  

“Grenogia has sent their representative to discuss the tribute money. They have heard that we gave protection to Kredonia the past summer. Kredonia is now at peace and the King of Kredonia has suggested that Grenogia seeks for alliances, and they are ready to submit their allegiance to Erauri.”  

The King nodded before delivering his words. “Which Kingdom is the threat to Grenogia, Chief Park?” he asked Chief Park, the chief of the court – the person who supervised the King and who held the highest hierarchy in the Royal Court.  

“It's the land of Pitia, Your Majesty. I’ve been informed that Pitia has been waging wars against a few small kingdoms like Grenogia. The King is well known for his cruel and tyrannical rule. He was trying to expand his territory and some say it is because the King wants to wrangle with our land, Your Majesty, ” explained Chief Park.  

The King released a deep sigh at the information. He was aware about the long and complicated dispute between Erauri and Pitia. It had been more than a century of feud by which both Kingdoms failed to come up with a peace treaty. Where Erauri was more adamant about peace treaties while expanding its power and wealth and provides respect, protection, and finance for the poor countries, Pitia was more brutal in its approach. The King had used war to gain power and wealth, causing great damage to the land and injury towards the people as well as the death of the innocent citizens.   

“Your Majesty, do we need to discuss this with Pitia by way of a cautious step? The King of Pitia, King Dong Won wouldn’t like it if we give the protection to Grenogia. We had issues before when we agreed to honor Kredonia as our ally. King Dong Won has been aiming for the west territories for his conquest. If we make an alliance with Grenogia this means we are waging war against Pitia.”  

King Kim Namgil took a breather at those sentences, tapping on his chin while thinking about the pros and cons of his action. If Erauri made an alliance with Grenogia, then Pitia would become their enemy. They were already not on good terms but still, both kingdoms were not willing to meet in the battlefield. Pitia knew the power of the Erauri army and Erauri realized Pitia was the biggest threat to the kingdom if they were in a war. The aftermath would be gruesome and disastrous, and that was what both Kings were trying to avoid. 

“What are the other counsels’ thoughts about this?” the King asked the rest of the assembly. They were the Majesty's advisors, under the command of the Chief of the Court. He was the one that would assign the duties to the Majesty's advisors – also known as the secretaries.   

“Your Majesty, we have discussed this together and it is unanimously agreed that Grenogia is a good ally- and we will gain a lot, especially since they are fertile with high-quality wheat and cocoa. The land of Grenogia is widely known for their high-grade crops and the productivity is quite impressive since the cultivation period is current. It gives a great worth to the land and to us particularly,” explained Advisor Lee, the one who was responsible for Erauri's economic affairs.  

“Then what about Pitia, Advisor Jung?” asked King Kim Namgil, addressing Advisor Jung, the higher general of Erauri's military. Pitia was still a threat to Erauri, so the King needed to tackle the issue insightfully. He was not adamant to make a foe with Pitia even though Erauri’s army was stronger than Pitia’s.  

Advisor Jung bowed his head before answering to the King. “We have not received any words from Pitia, Your Majesty. We have already informed our representative to consult with the King of Pitia about our intention of alliance with Grenogia. We shall receive the news within two days.”  

King Kim Namgil nodded at the information. He hoped that this matter could be resolved amicably. War was not something he sought for under his reign. Erauri always carried out peace and justice. However, in certain circumstances, war is something unforeseen. But the aftermath is horrifying. Innocent people would be the victims and the damage would be unbearable. Thus, King Kim Namgil would always find the best solution to avoid one.  

“We shall wait for our men to come back. I hope they will bring good news with them. Pitia is a strong country, confrontation will not do any good for us too. But in order to preserve justice, we must uphold our principles. No one shall be treated unfairly just because of the greed of obtaining power,” stated Kim Namgil in a stern voice, making the court resonate with his charismatic aura.  

“By all means, Your Majesty,” answered Advisor Jung politely while bowing his head in respect.  

“By the way, where's the Crown Prince?”  

Advisor Lee rose from his seat, giving his bow before he answered with a smile. “The Royal Highness is going hunting with Royal Guard Min, Your Majesty.”  

The King’s eyebrows raised at the information. “Hunting?” but later his lips curved into a smile, reminiscing his young prince’s days.  

It was a dark and thick forest nearby the palace where all sorts of animals had been living there peacefully. Well… not when the Crown Prince set his foot in the beautiful green forest. He was a great archer. He could release his arrow while riding a horse and it would fly into his target perfectly. He never came back to the palace empty-handed. Whenever he went out for a hunt, at least a big fat deer would be the feast that night in the palace.  

The forest was known as Last Willow, situated at the border between the land of Erauri and Kaen. It was a thin line between the two Kingdoms which at one time anyone could mistakenly step over the borderline. Unintentionally. The neighborhood Kingdom was not in alliance with Erauri and neither they were at war. Kaen was an independent land ruled by a young king known as Kim.   

“Do you think it’s a deer or a boar Yoongi-hyung?”   

“I think it’s a boar, Your Highness…”  

Namjoon instantly put down his bow, turning his body to look at his royal guard, Min Yoongi. The elder had been his guard since he was ten, a year after he had been crowned as the heir of Erauri. Since then, Min Yoongi had been with him for almost nine years. He was two years older, the reason why he had been calling the said male as ‘hyung’. 

“Hyung! How many time do I need to tell you to just call me by my name? There’s no need for etiquette if you are with me. And we are outside the palace, no one will ever punish you if you call me by my name,” whined Namjoon, complaining on how Yoongi always treated him as royalty every time. He was not exactly eager for the elder to address him like that. He considered Yoongi his own brother, his friend. They both had grown up together, learned and practiced together. The beta male was the person who he’d been closer for years than the other royal guards.  

Yoongi was startled at the sudden burst, bowing slightly at Namjoon knowing that he had acted rude – making the young prince get mad suddenly. “My sincere apology, Your Highness. But I can’t do that if I’m still in my position as the royal guard, either in the palace or outside the palace. It’s against the…”  

Namjoon chided at the same overused explanation by Yoongi, giving him a deadly stare as Yoongi halted from giving his opinion about the code of conduct. Namjoon didn’t want to listen to it right now, not when he was trying to concentrate for his prey.  

“You’re being oblivious hyung. I won’t say any further, I'll deal with it later. Give me my arrow…” sighed Namjoon, pushing his hand towards the elder, asking for his golden arrow.   

“I stand corrected, Your Highness…” said Yoongi, apologizing to the Crown Prince. He then opened up the long brown leather bag, taking out one of the golden arrows – curved with the Crown Prince’s name and handing it to Namjoon.  

“I hope I won’t miss the target. You know, since you made me angry just now…” remarked Namjoon, teasing the royal guard.  

Yoongi gulped at the words, head hung low and facing the ground. “I believe you will bring the prey to the palace, Prince. It’s a well-known fact that you’re a sharpshooter. You never missed the prey once…” 

Namjoon chuckled at the compliment, slowly putting the arrow into his bow and pulling the string – aiming at the moving bushes in front of him. He didn’t hesitate for a second when he released the arrow and a sound of animal's wailing reverberated in the forest. Namjoon smiled with pride and Yoongi had one too on his naturally pale face.   

“Let’s move forward and see the prey…” commented Yoongi to his two men, signaling the guards to be at the front before he and Namjoon made a move. The two guards quickly ran, heading towards the bushes where the prey lay on the ground – the arrow had pierced the body, blood seeping through the skin and flowing to the ground, making the soil tainted with crimson red liquid.  

“It’s quite big and the palace will get a heavy feast tonight,” noted Namjoon when he saw the dead boar, feeling proud of himself and happy that he could bring something to his loyal servants at the palace.  

Yoongi emitted a soft laugh. “The servants will be happy for such treatments, Your Highness. They’re always waiting for you to bring the food back, knowing you will never let them down…”  

Namjoon laughed heartily. He was genuinely happy that he could make the servants enjoy great foods out of his hobby. Namjoon was about to bend down to see the boar when an unknown arrow was shot in his direction, and it would have hit his head if he didn’t back out at the right time.   

Yoongi’s eyes widened at the sudden commotion. He pulled out his sword and guarded the shocked young Prince together with his two men, who now had the swords in their hands too. Yoongi tilted his head to see the crown prince, asking with his eyes whether Namjoon was okay or was he even hurt. Namjoon reassured him that he was fine. However, his body was trembling a little with shock, shaken at the horrendous incident. He almost died just now. 

“You wore your suppressant before going out from the palace right?” he asked with concern, looking at the omega prince.  

Namjoon quickly nodded. Since he was an omega, it’s dangerous for him to go outside the palace without a suppressant. It was provided by the Royal Healer to masquerade his sweet dianthus smell whenever he needed to go somewhere from the palace, especially the battlefield. The strong fragrance with the smell of spicy cinnamon or clove always attracted people wherever he went. Being a crown prince and an omega was something rare and auspicious. As such he had to wear the suppressant for the people to think of him as the alpha instead of omega – in order to protect him from any threat.  

Namjoon tightened his grip on his bow, taking another of his golden arrow – getting ready for a fight if someone starts to attack them. Yoongi and his men were cautious as they heard the approaching steps. A smell of rosemary hit Namjoon's nose. The distinctive woody fragrance was making Namjoon's stress hormone decreased slowly and he couldn’t help himself from putting down his bow spontaneously when he met the eyes of the estranged alpha. He was riding his white horse, being guarded by a person who looked very dangerous. The guard’s smell of hot pepper was intimidating.  

However, Namjoon was much more fascinated at how handsome the male was with his tall build and firm muscles on the back of the horse. Namjoon didn’t realize that his body had emitted a strong smell of his scent  at the sudden presence of the alpha.  

“That boar was my target before your arrow had hit its body,” claimed the alpha with his manly voice, staring at Yoongi and his two men holding their sword in a protective mode. His eyes averted towards the tall lanky body behind the three swordsmen and he realized the said male was quite intriguing.  

“That boar belongs to us. We saw it first and we had it in our hand. The arrow on the body is the evidence that it belongs to us,” refuted Yoongi. He stared at the alpha as the male’s fragrance became stronger, showing his alpha pheromones – to show his cogency as an alpha. Being a beta, Yoongi knew his strength limit but, as a royal guard, it was his duty to protect the Crown Prince. The prince was now his priority.  

“How insolent you are, uncanny beta! You should kneel on the ground before you can speak to our Prince!”   

All the four were shocked when they heard another male, a beta too, speak about the said male being a Prince. Namjoon peeked from Yoongi's shoulder to see the alpha. He did have a princely aura. He was gorgeous and handsome, wearing his expensive royal garments made from silk. His sword on his waist had the amulet of the royal family. Namjoon try to look at the monarch’s head but the distance was quite far and his sight was limited due to that. If not, he would have been able to tell from which kingdom the prince belonged to. He had learned since he was young about all the kingdoms nearby Erauri and their royal head monarch stamps.   

“Bow with respect, you peasant! This is the land of Kaen, and you are standing before Royal Highness Kim Taehyung. You shall be punished with death for having the gut to look at our prince discourteously. And put down your swords, cad!” the male spoke again when he saw how the four strangers standing with no signs of respect towards his Prince.  

The four were once again shocked to know that the said male was a Prince of Kaen and they had surpassed the border of Erauri without realizing it. Yoongi blamed himself for his absent mind and his lack of knowledge about their land, causing the harm to the Crown Prince.  

“No, we are…”  

“Put down the swords and kneel down Yoongi…” whispered Namjoon, interrupting Yoongi from telling the truth to the two males.  

Yoongi was shocked at the order, tilted his head towards Namjoon to see his face. Namjoon nodded briefly, asking Yoongi the same thing again. Reluctantly, Yoongi slowly kneeled down together with his men, followed suit by Namjoon. 

The said male smirked with satisfaction at the obedience before he looked back at his Prince. “Your Highness, do you want me to take the boar?” he asked.  

“Wait, Hoseok. I need to talk to them first.”  

“But Prince Taehyung, it will be dangerous if you move forward. They still have the swords with them. And I have a bad feeling about this encounter…” Hoseok murmured, glancing at the four – they still had their one knee on the ground. He had the hunch that the four were not people they could mess around with. Also, he realized the swords and the bow in their hands were very high quality and well made by an expert. It would cost you some money and for that reason, only someone from the royal family could afford as such.  

Taehyung tutted at Hoseok, raising his hand to command Hoseok to stop from giving his opinion at the crucial moment. Taehyung hopped down from the horse and slowly approached the four. He could smell the tense emotion radiating from the four men and it became stronger when he was standing in front of them. A strong smell of spicy cinnamon attacked his nostrils at this point. Taehyung frowned. 

“One of you is an omega!” exclaimed Taehyung, wondering with his eyes at the four, trying to figure out which one of them was the omega. It was well known that an omega could not freely walk in public places. They were an easy target for an attack by some of the alphas, who had no common sense about respect and honor. That was why the group was called the barbaric alphas.   

Yoongi shuddered at the assertion, feeling anxious that the crown prince might be caught red-handed. Namjoon’s head was hung low to the ground, and he couldn’t meet with the eyes of the alpha prince as his body fragrance was stronger when the distance became closer. The rosemary might have the soothing feeling but an agitated alpha will emit a stronger smell that would cause an omega like him to trigger – physically and sexually. Namjoon clenched his fist as he could feel the cramp in his stomach and his forehead had started to well up with cold sweats. This was not a good sign and he couldn’t have a heat at this moment. Not in this situation.  

“What an omega like you being here in the jungle? It’s dangerous and you will attract the alphas. The smell is too strong and it’s really intriguing…” continued Taehyung as he sniffed the strong aroma. “It’s a nice smell of dianthus by the way…” he hummed.  

Namjoon’s body shivered at the raspy voice as the prince could tell exactly his kind of fragrance. Not everyone could guess it correctly the first time and the prince seemed to have a strong sense of smell. Namjoon glanced at the handsome prince when his heart had a sudden hammering effect. He got nauseous at the strong smell of rosemary and Namjoon knew at this point his cover might be blown.   

Yoongi could sense the distress level of the Crown Prince, trying to figure out how they could escape this situation. He couldn’t jeopardize his prince, and the Prince of Kaen could be considered a threat towards Namjoon.  

Yoongi did what he thought the best solution at that time. He laid down his sword, bowed down than before until his forehead reached the soil. Namjoon eyes widened at the sudden gesture but chose to say nothing as be entrusted his royal guard to overcome the situation on his behalf.  

“We seek for your mercy, Your Highness. We were too caught up in our hunting activity that we didn’t realize we had crossed the border. We have no intention to bring any harm towards the land of Kaen. We plead innocent and towards Your Highness’ tolerance to let us go,” Yoongi articulated in a pleading tone while still bowing to the ground. 

Taehyung stares at the beta. He was fascinated at the words uttered by the male, knowing that he was not a commoner. He then eyed everyone in front of him. The four men had worn casual attire but their appearance was quite subtle and looked like royalty. His eyes were then on Namjoon, fixated on the male. He was the one that was most outstanding in the group. Looking at how clean and beautiful he is, Taehyung could conclude that he must be from a rich family. The fine upbringing of the male could be seen from his gestures and appearance.  

“You…the one with the scent of dianthus…” Taehyung said while pointing his finger at Namjoon.  

Namjoon gasped in horror and his brown orbs met with Taehyung's intimidating eyes. Yoongi clenched his fists where the soil had stained his hand as he tried to control his anger. He might need to use his sword if the Prince of Kaen kept on assaulting Namjoon with his words.  

“Why are you here in this jungle? You are an omega. You are not supposed to walk freely, what’s more, to join a hunting? Isn’t that an oblivious act of yours?”  

Namjoon shook his head in disagreement. “Sorry that I can’t agree with you, Your Highness. There’s no rules that forbids an omega to enjoy his or her freedom of life. The omega, like the alpha and beta, should enjoy their rights similarly to the other two. An omega might be weaker than an alpha and beta, but to deprive their rights to enjoy their life or on what they want to be is an oppression of human rights. Justice doesn’t mean that you have to equally divide two things; it is to put something where it belongs… it is the royal duty to educate the people so that omegas can enjoy the same rights as the other sub-genders. As such, I believe that there’s nothing wrong for an omega like me to be here and join my friend for a hunt.”  

Taehyung was flabbergasted at the speech of the omega. He was astonished with the facts and the information that the unknown omega was knowledgeable. Of course, he noted that his speech might be triggering, but he was so brazen when he spoke his mind towards Taehyung, the Prince of Kaen. He didn’t want the male to talk low about the omega and Taehyung admitted that he actually agreed with the conception.  

“What’s your name? Tell me,” questioned Taehyung, curiosity making him ask without hesitation.  

Namjoon was startled at the question, and he was about to answer when another male approached them with a serious face. He then got onto one knee in front of Taehyung.  

“Your Highness, His Majesty has summoned you back to the palace. It’s really important…”  

Taehyung released a deep sigh at the interruption, turning his body back to see Namjoon.   

“I believe we shall meet again, my omega…”  

Namjoon gaped at the statement, shell-shocked as his eyes trailed over each step taken by the alpha prince before he hopped on the horse again. Taehyung curved a smile, shaped like a rectangle, towards Namjoon before he hit the strap on the horse and left the four dumbfounded. 

Yoongi let out a relieved sigh that they had escaped death. He then quickly turned to look at the prince. “Your Highness?”  

Namjoon lifted his head to see Yoongi through his blurry vision. “H-hyung…I think I…I’m in heat...I…we…” Namjoon couldn’t say anything further as his head began spinning and the cramp in his abdomen become more severe since he had tried to hold it before. It was just a second before he felt lightheaded; his body fell on the ground and Namjoon felt the world tilt around him before his vision was completely black.  

Alpha… 

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟑 - 𝐋𝐞𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐁𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭

"𝐈𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐧𝐨 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐢𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠"

A knock on the door interrupted The King and Queen’s conversation in their chamber before a servant came in and kneeled in front of the two.  

“Your Majesty, Royal Guard Min has asked for permission to appear before you. He said it’s urgent…”  

The King frowned before he glanced at his queen with a puzzled look, but he still ordered the servant to allow Yoongi to enter the chamber. The King had furrowed eyebrows when he saw how Yoongi hastily entered and quickly bowed. His look to be in distress. 

“Your Majesty, Royal Guard Min appears before you.” 

“What is it Yoongi? I thought you went for hunting with the Crown Prince,” murmured The King, speaking informally with Yoongi. He had been the Crown Prince's guard since Namjoon was ten. The King himself had appointed Yoongi to be the one, proposed by the assembly because of their close ages. No one can be a better companion for the Crown Prince except Yoongi. The King and the members of the Court were unanimously agreed on that. 

The King truly believed that Yoongi could be the perfect example for Namjoon. Yoongi had been trained well by his father Commander Min since young, possessed all the good qualities as a great warrior required to have and was intellectual too. Namjoon had learned so much from him through the times and both had become good friends since.  Namjoon himself had considered Yoongi as his own brother that he always look out for. 

“Your Majesty, it’s the Crown Prince! His heat has been triggered while we were hunting in the forest!” 

The King's eyes widened at the news while the Queen was shocked to know that Namjoon was in heat which is earlier than expected – it was to come in another two weeks.  

“Where is he now?” The King asked with a strained voice. Obviously worried.  

“In the heat chamber Your Majesty. I had summoned the Royal Healer as soon as we reached the palace…” 

The King, without wasting any second heading towards the chamber together with his worried Queen. The unexpected news had made her heart squeezed with an uneasy feeling. After the Crown Prince been presented as an omega four years ago, the heat had always been on the same period and they always been alarmed before the prince had one. The Royal Healer had made the calculation as for them to be prepared in the hearing chamber. But then what had caused the sudden heat? What had to happen to their precious prince?  

It was a harrowing situation. The smell of dianthus clouded the whole floor and the King almost stumble on his feet because of the strong scent. His alpha pheromones were triggered, and this is the first time he had this kind of sensation. He knew there is something wrong with his son immediately. He scrunched his nose at the sharp and strong dianthus scent, feeling dizzy and delirious. 

When the King and the Queen entered the chamber, Namjoon was lying on the bed – soaking wet with sweat and in a pain. Extremely in pain. This is uncommon for them and Namjoon doesn’t look good at all. Worst than he had his first heat four years ago. 

“What happened?” the King asked the Royal Healer, while he put his silk handkerchief to his nose, preventing himself to inhale the strong scent further.

Madam Wu quickly bowed before the King and Queen. However before she could speak, Namjoon was screaming in pain, curling on the bed while his hand pressing harder to his cramped stomach. He had a coughing fits before he spits blood, splattered all over his satin blanket. Everyone was shell-shocked at the horrendous view.   

The King now had his queen in his embrace when she is crying in despair watching their son in terrible pain. Madam Wu is now helping Namjoon, giving him some herbs to drink and wiped off the trail of blood over his mouth and chin. The Crown Prince look overly sick as his face now as pale as snow and he was heaving. His lips crack because of constant vomiting and his whole body is sweating profusely, saline soaks his clothes. A throbbing pain like been pricked by thousands of needles was attacking his muscles as he groaned in extreme pain. He was on the verge of dying.

After the prince now in deep slumber, the effect of the herbs given by the royal healer – she once again kneeled in front of the King and Queen.

“What is happening Madam Wu?” asked the King once again.

“Your Majesty, I believed that the Crown Prince had his early heat because he had been triggered by strong pheromones of an estranged alpha…” she said, delivering her diagnosis.

The King frowned before he averted his eyes towards Yoongi, been standing in the corner of the chamber with a worried face too. Yoongi, knowing the look quickly stand before the King. 

“Is there something happen during the hunting, Yoongi?” the King asked.

Yoongi nodded slowly. “I seek for your forgiveness, Your Majesty. It was my mistakes that we didn’t realize we had crossed the border between Erauri and Kaen. We met with the Prince of Kaen while hunting and that had caused Prince Namjoon to have an early heat…” 

The King puckers his eyebrows at the information. “Prince of Kaen? Did he harm any of you? Did he cause any injury towards Namjoon?”

“No Your Majesty. He doesn’t even know our identity. His alpha scent was too strong and all of us being intimidated by mere of his presence. He left us after a few commotions and that is when the Prince fainted…”

The King still couldn’t apprehend the situation. It is odd. Namjoon used to confront lots of alphas with strong pheromones before. He used to meet with those strong alphas at the battlefield but none of them had triggered his heat.  Namjoon has always been composed whenever he is in need to confront any alpha, knowing that he might be in danger if he lost his focus even for a second. The Royal Healer had played the important role in prescribing the suppressant to hide his omega scent during battlefield. It was never failed to façade the scent before.

“Madam Wu…may I know why is this happen to my prince? It’s strange for him to be like this just because of an alpha…”

Madam Wu nodded in agreement with The King. “Your Majesty, I believe that the crown prince had a terrible heat after been triggered by the unusual scent of the said alpha. It turns out worst because his body had become immune to the herbs I’d prescribed. For the next heat, I’m afraid it will become worst than this, that will cost his life, Your Majesty.”

The Queen gasped as she reached her son on his bed. The tired face of the prince been caressed with he slender fingers – tears rolling to her white face, feeling the agony of her son’s fate. She was helpless as she can’t help her own son in this situation. Being an omega is not as easy as other people thought. They maybe the weakest sub-genders in the troupe, have the minimal role in the society, unlike alpha and beta. But for them to go through the skeptical is a long and hard journey.  Being a Crown Prince doesn’t help Namjoon to get rid the stereotype of sub-genders discrimination.

An omega has always been the lowest sub-genders in economy, politics and social class. This is a true fact. Their roles only limited to be the aid for alpha and beta. Alphas sometimes considered an omega as their sexual objects to carry on the offspring – stay at home with no other significant role except to entertain the alpha and to nurture the children. That is the thing that the King of Erauri tried to make a difference. In Erauri, all sub-genders are equal, been given the same opportunity in all fields. The King reigned the Erauri with the principles of justice and equality, despise any discrimination among the sub-genders. Any ill-treatment towards the omega will be punishable with imprisonment and fine.

That is why, when Namjoon been presented as an omega they had been trying to accept the fate in subtle and open mind. The King must uphold his words, cannot retract his own principles, being a good example towards the people. It is hard to adapt at first, but they managed to live with the fact that their precious prince is now an omega. And they can’t be more grateful that the people of Erauri had embraced Namjoon dearly as he is their beloved Crown Prince.

“What is the solution to this, Madam Wu?” the King asked as his eyes staring at his crying queen and his sick son with agony.  In this current situation, he needs to remain calm and find out the solution needed.

“The Crown Prince need his mate for the next heat…”

“A mate? You mean an alpha?”

“Indeed, Your Majesty…”

“Your Highness really did a great job in the court just now…”

Taehyung smirked at his royal guard, Jung Hoseok before his eyes averted to his two pets in the cage – two black pumas. He throws the raw meat and had a fun to see how the pumas chasing the meat and growling towards each other fighting for the piece of meat. His eyes beaming at the view as he enjoys it every second. The pumas had been his pet since he was thirteen and Taehyung had been taken care of the two carnivores personally.
 
“Advisor Kwon always got on my nerves. He thinks he can get rid of me easily and gained more power under my father’s rule. Not on my watch!” said Taehyung in a stern voice. 

“But still, you need to be more careful, Your Highness. I’m sure he will not let the things go easily after the humiliation in the courts…”

Taehyung snickered at the statement by his guard but he can’t deny the truth behind it. He always knew how Advisor Kwon and few of his allies are planning to dethrone him after his father announced his coronation last year. They never agreed for Taehyung to be the next king of Kaen. For them, Taehyung is hard to control and to manipulate. For them, they feared that Taehyung will sack everyone that went against him and they firmly believe that the young King will walk the talk. Taehyung is the major threat to them.

“By the way, Hoseok, have you found out about the four we met earlier?” asked Taehyung while looking at Hoseok intensely.

Hoseok slowly shook his head. “I’m afraid not, Your Highness. They already left the scene when I went there once again…”

Taehyung sighed. “What a shame. I want to know who were they and where are they came from…”

Hoseok stares at the Prince. “You seems very interested with them.. especially the omega…” he said brazenly. 

Taehyung cocked his head to see Hoseok at his side before he flashed his boxy smiles. “Don’t you think that the omega is very enthralling?” he asked the guard.

Hoseok let out a soft chuckle at the words. “You never shows any interest over an omega before Your Highness…” he teased the Prince. 

Taehyung grinned sheepishly. “You are right Hoseok. But this omega, not an ordinary omega. He had the bold character and he speaks with intelligence. It’s rare to see such a perfect omega that not being intimidated with an alpha…”

“I…I can’t deny that my Prince…”

Taehyung laughed. Knowing that he had been enchanted by the estranged omega. The nice smell of dianthus still lingered around his nose and he couldn’t forget how beautiful the brown orbs of the omega, staring at him shyly. 

“But they left the boar. That was weird since they had claimed it as theirs before. So I took it back to the kitchen for us to eat…” said Hoseok with curiosity.

Taehyung eyes glistening at the information before he put his both hands over Hoseok’s shoulder – startled the guard for the unexpected skinship. “Hey, that’s a good news Hoseok. Let’s go and see the boar!!” 

Hoseok was taken aback at the prince attitudes but cannot ask further as the prince quickly walked away heading to the kitchen. Everyone in the kitchen gasped in horror at the unannounced presence of Taehyung – shivering in fear as all of them kneeled before him. They didn’t expect for the young King to step into the dirty kitchen – a place where a King shouldn’t be at all. 

“Where’s the boar?” he asked with his raspy cold voice, while his eyes quivered throughout the kitchen. 

Soojung, the head of the kitchen answered in a shaking voice, “in the chill room Your Highness…”

Ignoring all the scullions¹ in the kitchen, Taehyung immediately went to the chill room where the boar been kept before been slaughtered for the dinner. Hoseok followed from the behind, followed by Soojung while the others remain kneeling at their place. 

Taehyung smiles when he saw the dead boar on the table. He approached the boar and his boxy smiles appeared when he realized the arrow still stuck on the boar’s stomach. Taehyung touches the golden arrow before he quickly pulled it out, splashing the blood all over the table and few on his face. Hoseok and Soojung gasped at the commotion but says nothing when they saw Taehyung didn’t even bother with it. To be honest, Soojung quite afraid to see that kind of attitudes. Taehyung always makes people uncomfortable around him because of his dark and scary aura. 

Taehyung scrutinizes the golden arrow, looking at it carefully when he saw an initial carved at the end of the arrow. 

“KNJ?” he said in a whispering tone, more to himself. There is a royal monarch after the initial making the young King frown in confusion. He cocked his head towards Hoseok. “Hoseok, take a look at this!”

Hoseok flinched when Taehyung shoved the arrow to him. He was a little bit startled to see a few drops of blood over Taehyung’s face. But he chooses to ignore it and took the arrow.

“They were from the royal family. There’s a royal monarch on the arrow. Ask our Royal Bowyer²  about it. And I want the information reach to me by tomorrow…”

“But Your Highness, it will take for a while for him to. “

“I said I want it by tomorrow, Jung Hoseok! Failure to do so will cost him his life!”

“My apology Your Highness. I will send the arrow to him right now…” said Hoseok with no more objection and hurriedly left Taehyung in the kitchen. 

Taehyung eyes now on Soojung, head hung low to the floor – scared to meet with the eyes of Taehyung. Taehyung chided at the head of the kitchen and left her in the chill room before she followed the prince a few seconds later. When Taehyung was out from the chill room, the scullions still kneeling and trembling. 

“Am I that scary for you to be like this?” asked Taehyung nonchalantly. He took out his small handkerchief and wiped his face that been stained with the blood before.

No one ever dares to answer nor to lift their head, few gasped resonated in the kitchen as they didn’t expect such direct question from the prince. Taehyung averted his eyes to Soojung. “Am I that scary, Soojung?” he repeats the same question. 

Soojung bit his lower lips in fear before slowly shook her head. “No…no Your Highness. We… we just not well prepared to receive your sudden visits to the kitchen. We should be cleaning the place first for you to be more comfortable…” she answered while stammering in her speech. Afraid that she might say something that will cause a dismay to the prince.

Taehyung smirked at the answer. “You are really good with your words Soojung. And there’s no need to clean the kitchen just because I want to come here. A kitchen is a place that should be dirty because you were doing your cooking. If you want it to be clean as the dining hall, it wouldn’t be called a kitchen then…” he said, in a teasing manner.

Soojung lips slowly twitched into a small smile, feeling at ease that the prince now had a good mood rather than his cold personality. She does realize that sometimes in his cold personality, there’s a tiny warmth in it that will make you feel calm and serene. But it was a rare sight to see. Sadly.

“Well, I hope you can give a great feast since we have the big fatty boar there…” Taehyung further said before he left the kitchen.

Once the important figure left the kitchen, everyone was letting out a loud sighed in relieved, slumped their bodies to the floor as their knees got weaken at the presence of Taehyung earlier. 

“That’s scaring the shit out of me!” said Yoona, one of the scullion. And everyone nodded in agreement with Yoona. Taehyung did make them out of breath. The young King presence is really intimidating. They know Taehyung will never spare anyone who had makes him angry. Everyone in the palace knows about his foe with the advisors and how he always belittled them in the courts. 

People in the palace always been cautious around the Prince. No one ever dares to meet with his eyes. They even afraid of his shadow, trying to hide or run whenever they can when the caught the glimpse of the Prince. He had instilled such fear in everyone but never bothered about it at all.

“It is the right time, Your Majesty…” 

The King was in silence at Chief Park’s words. Thinking the rationality of such suggestion. 

“I agreed. Even we can’t deny his ability to rule Erauri but he is still an omega. We all know how omega stands in the eyes of society. How much they had proven themselves to be at par with alpha and beta, they are still the weakest. The Crown Prince might possess all the requirement to be a great King, but at one point he had his weakness. An omega always submissive to the alpha, as such for a kingdom being ruled by an omega will cause a threat. The other kingdom will take advantage of us…” states Advisor Lee, in agreement with his chief of the court. 

The King took a breather before he speaks his mind about his advisor's words. “I…I couldn’t agree more with that. I know I can’t let their ill-desire against Erauri to cause harm against our people and the prince himself. They will attack him personally just because he is an omega. I do realize about that…” 

The terrible heat had knocked some sense for the King to re-evaluate everything once again. The members of the court too had voiced out their concerned due to some talks about their Crown Prince being an omega. Indeed, they can’t deny Namjoon’s ability to rule Erauri. He had all the skills like an alpha. He is intelligent, well versed in all fields of economy, politics, and society. He even a good fighter, well known for his tremendous skill in archery. He is a fierce fighter in the battlefield where the enemy tries to avoid any confrontation with him. However, he is still an omega. They can’t dismiss the crucial fact and in this world, an omega cannot be a King. 

“As the Royal Healer told you, the Crown Prince need an alpha to help him. Not because of his heat alone, but also to help him to reign Erauri. I believe, with the help of an alpha, the Crown Prince will become the great King.. “ said Chief Park further. 

“We need to choose carefully, Chief Park. I don’t want any prince to try to use my son for their own benefits. Namjoon might appear as a strong prince, but his heart is easy to tamper with. He has a soft heart and that makes me a little bit worried…” explained the King, voicing out his concern about Namjoon. He might be the King, a ruler of a Kingdom but as a father, he needs to think about his son wellbeing too. He wants Namjoon to be happy and enjoy his life to the fullest. He's still young and had a long way to go to be a great King.

“If so, to find a suitable match for Crown Prince, a match among the alpha princes shall be held…”

The King look at the Advisor Lee. “A match?”

“Yes, Your Majesty. We can decide through a few competition which alpha prince is suitable for Prince Namjoon…”

“That’s…that’s sound great to me…”

“We can send an invitation to the princes for them to participate…”

The King nodded at the suggestion. “Which princes should we invite then?”

Advisor Lee smiles before he listed down the name that he had thought that will be the suitable match for Namjoon.

“Prince Taehyung from Kaen, Prince Seokjin from Sharon, Prince Seyoon from Kerin, Prince Yugyeom from Shizia, Prince Kihyun from Crahan and Prince Jaehwan from Rosea.”

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...𝖙𝖔 𝖇𝖊 𝖈𝖔𝖓𝖙𝖎𝖓𝖚𝖊𝖉

𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲:

1) Scullion :  the lowest of kitchen workers whose duties included washing and cleaning the kitchen

2) Bowyer :  manufactured bows, arrows, and crossbows

Chapter Text

1) Squire: junior to a Knight. It was the duty of a Squire to learn about horsemanship and practice the use of weapons. A young nobleman acting as an attendant to a knight before becoming a knight himself.

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

“I won’t allow it!”

Prince Jungkook repeats his stand over the King's decision to hold a competition to choose Namjoon’s mate. His eyes like a dagger, staring at Namjoon with anger. His alpha scent, the smell of lavender starts to fill in, clouded the Crown Prince's chamber entirely.

Namjoon scrunched his nose at the thick smell, averted his eyes towards Yoongi that been guarding the two at the corner of the chamber. Yoongi shares the same concern with the crown prince but he knew Jungkook will never harm his own brother. He just needs time to calm himself at the sudden news.

“Jungkook-ah…You…you should stop releasing the scent so that we can talk about this calmly…” coaxed Namjoon. He clutched his fist, trying not to be affected by the scent.

Since the last heat, Namjoon had developed a sensitive pheromone against alpha. The heat had changed his entire omega physics. Not only that but he also emotionally fragile. The thing he hates the most being an omega.

Jungkook arched his brows when he saw how Namjoon’s forehead start to sweat and his voice sounded like shaking. “Are you sick, hyung?” he asked. Jungkook approached Namjoon slowly and crouched in front of him. He put his palm on Namjoon's forehead where he can feel the warmth of his tanned skin.

Namjoon flinched at the touch. Being an omega, any encounter with alpha always triggering. He didn’t want to have another heat within a week. It will be dangerous to his still weak body. Namjoon must be more cautious, avoiding any insignificant that could instigate his heat.

“What happens? Is there something I should know, hyung?” asked Jungkook. His voice becomes more subtle, no longer suppressed with anger like before. His alpha pheromones slowly dissipated, giving the clammy air to be more refresh. The anger had been replaced with genuine concern.

Namjoon finally could breathe normally. He looks at Jungkook that been obviously concerned.  “It’s…its about time Jungkook-ah…for me…for me to find a mate…” Namjoon carefully explains to his baby brother. He knew he needs to approach the angry young alpha by way of diplomacy.

Jungkook puckers an eyebrow. “What do you mean by that, hyung? If this is about the assembly and the throne, you no need to worry. I will protect you, hyung. I’ll be the alpha for you…” he said with a solemn voice, indicating his stance.

Jungkook was in incognizant of the consternation with the Assembly about Namjoon being the Crown Prince despite his status as an omega. It’s been debated for years of his capability to rule Erauri.

The King was adamant to indoctrinate the assembly that Namjoon has all the distinguishing qualities as alpha. The assembly had accepted the fact a long time ago. But why this issue been raised once again?

Namjoon smiles at Jungkook and took his small hand, patted on the back of it – with care and tender. “It’s not about that my Prince. It’s about to actualize my omega demands.  I no longer can shun away the necessity of being an omega. It’s a nature call Prince Jungkook…” clarified Namjoon calmly.

Jungkook furrows his brow in an expression of disapproval at Namjoon's statement. Didn’t fully fathom what is going right now. Namjoon's explanation still obscure and ambiguous.

“I…I still don’t understand hyung…” he said while he stares at his brother. In the urge to persuade Namjoon to explain everything to him.

Namjoon let out a soft chuckle at his brother bafflement. “Well…I need my alpha to go through my next heat Jungkook…” said Namjoon perspicuously. His face starts to blush out of embarrassment.

Jungkook tilted his head to the side when he notices the sudden change on his brother's expression. Namjoon gleams beautifully and the pink hue on his cheek looks adorably cute.  Jungkook never saw this new side of his brother. His nostril then caught up with the sweet dianthus scent emitted by Namjoon.

“H-hyung? Why your smell become so rich and intense?” Jungkook asked while he scrunched his nose at the sudden overflowing scents of dianthus.

Namjoon shyly smiles and glanced over Jungkook before he averted his eyes on Jungkook's hand that still been held up by him. He didn’t know how to explain to a seventeen years old prince about his need as an omega. Jungkook is still young, he hadn’t has his first rut yet. He didn’t know the difference between alpha and omega – thoroughly.

“May I, Your Highness?”

Jungkook cocked his head towards Namjoon's royal guard when his voice cut through the two discussions. Namjoon slowly nods and gives his permission for Yoongi to explain to the young alpha.

“Your Highness, last few days the Crown Prince had his worst heat that almost cost his life…”

“A what??” Jungkook eyes widen at the information, gawking at Namjoon that looks startled at his exert reaction. “Hyung! Why you didn’t tell me? And why no one brings the news to me at Trusan? This…this is ruthless!”

Namjoon pats on Jungkook’s hand. “Hey…behold yourself Prince Jungkook. I’m fine, perfectly fine now. Nothing to worry…” coaxed Namjoon.

“Due to that, Crown Prince needs his alpha for his next heat. That is why the King had summoned you back to the palace, to attend the ball and to be the judge of the competition…” continues Yoongi.

Jungkook for eyes become more round than usual as if the eyeball will falling out from its socket. “A judge??”

“Crown Prince himself want you to participate to single out the best alpha for him…” explained Yoongi.

Jungkook darts his eyes to the Crown Prince, now looking at him with hopeful eyes. Jungkook’s breath become shallow when he saw how cute his brother right now, batting his long eyelashes. He cooed in his heart that his omega brother used his charm to persuade him.

“Aigoo!!! Just because you’re so cute that I’m agreeing to this, hyung…” decides Jungkook in the end.

Namjoon grins like a Cheshire cat, feeling happy that Jungkook going to help him in choosing his alpha mate.

“But hyung, let me tell you this. I will be uncompromising towards all the Princes. I won’t let them belittle you and I have the final say on who will be your mate!”

Namjoon bites his lower lips at the admonition, reluctantly nods his head in agreement with Jungkook. There’s no use to argue with Jungkook right now. He will never listen to Namjoon whenever he had decided on something. The stubborn young prince!

“But for now, you need to learn the table manner for the ball, Prince Jungkook, ” uttered Namjoon.

Jungkook groaned in frustration, leaned his forehead on Namjoon’s thigh – trying to act childish as an act of refusal. Namjoon emitted a half-suppressed laugh, amused by Jungkook's behavior. He then ruffled the black lock of his brother lovingly.

“No…no…this won’t do on me Prince Jungkook. The ball is tomorrow, and you were far from ready…Yoongi will teach you the basic…” said Namjoon.

Jungkook raised his head, looking at Namjoon through his chin – with a sullen face and pouting. He then peeked over Namjoon's body, staring at Yoongi who had his eyes on him too.

Jungkook sighed. “Hyung…couldn't you be the one that teaches me?” he asked slowly. “Your guard is too stern and rigid!” he whispered and glancing at Yoongi for a second.

Namjoon laughed at the remarks because what Jungkook had said just now is nothing but true. Yoongi is really a boring teacher.

“The lesson will be too mundane and monotonous. I’ll be apathetic in five minutes…” said Jungkook, still whispering onto Namjoon.

Jungkook has no avid to have a lesson with Namjoon's royal guard. He basically very tedious and has no fun at all. Jungkook always caught with sleeping whenever he and Namjoon had a lesson together.

“My apology for interrupting, but I heard you, Prince Jungkook, ” intercepts Yoongi with his stoic expression.

Jungkook rolled his eyes. “Yeah, I know Yoongi-hyung. I intended for you to hear that too…” he said as an attempt of sardonic remarks.

Namjoon let out a boisterous laugh at the two bickering, enjoying himself that the clash of two different personalities always makes them funnier. Jungkook, of course; obviously like to tease the grumpy royal guard.

Jungkook stuck out his tongue over Yoongi, playfully teased the royal guard. Yoongi huffed at the childish demeanor before he twitched into an almost invisible smile. No one can ever get mad at the youngest prince.

“Shall we start Prince Jungkook?”

“How’s the preparation?”

Namjoon looks at his father that just arrived at the Great Hall, to inspect the place where the ball will be held. Namjoon quickly bowed in respect before his father reckons him to rise.

“I believe all the preparation had been well-prepared by the royal servant, Your Majesty. And Prince Jungkook had requested for a jester¹ during the ball…”

The King quirk his brows at the mentioned of the jester. “A jester? Prince Jungkook?”

Namjoon chuckles before he nods. “Yes Your Majesty. And I couldn’t say no to our young prince. Well, he is indeed still a baby, father…”

The King let out a suppressed laugh at the statement. He is agreed with his oldest son about Prince Jungkook. He might have undergone strict military training at Trusan to become a tough man but still, he just seventeen. Still young and very childlike.

“Hyung…..!!!”

A loud sing-song echoed in the hall and Namjoon together with his father turned their head to see the young boy now running towards them – more on hoping like a cute bunny. Namjoon laughed at his demeanor and the King squinted his eyes towards the young prince.

Jungkook pounced over Namjoon, almost stumbles to the back and he hugged his brother tightly. Namjoon smiles tenderly at the affection and hugged the small boy too.

“It’s not a good manner as royalty should act in front of the servants, Prince Jungkook…” the cold voice of the King makes the boys shuddered.

Jungkook a little bit startled as he didn’t notice his father was there too. Jungkook who still hugging Namjoon then pouted when he saw the darken expression of the King.

“I just miss hyung very much, father. In Trusan, whenever I miss all of you I can’t do anything except crying myself to sleep. Can’t I just shows my love to hyung before I been deployed again to Trusan?” he said with his voice a little bit shaking, eyes glistening with tears as if he is going to cry at any time.

The King sighed as he shook his head in slow and deep manners. He knew it was a scheme by the boy to stop him from scolding him for acting non-royal in the palace.

“Father, just let him be…” said Namjoon while hugging Jungkook. Jungkook giggled onto his omega brother’s chest, knowing that his brother will always protect him from the King's wrath.

The King huffed in frustration at his two princes. “Make sure he didn’t make the palace as his playground Prince Namjoon. You are answerable to his conduct. I vouchsafed him unto your hand…”

Namjoon quickly bowed and pushed Jungkook head to bow to the King too before he left the hall. Namjoon chided as his hand on the hips, staring at the young prince.

“You’re being mischievous Jungkook. You know father didn’t like that kind of attitude in the palace. You deliberately testing his patience. It’s not a good thing to do, Prince Jungkook. A King's equanimity shall not be put into a trial.”

Jungkook dangled down his head, a sip of guiltiness entered his heart as he realized Namjoon will not be using the stern and cold tone talking to him – unless he acted like a brat.

“My apologize Your Highness. It’s my own deficiency that I acted like that in front of King. I'll seek forgiveness to The Majesty later…”

Namjoon’s mouth turned up into a smile, ruffling Jungkook's dark and black hair that curls into ringlets, falling from his head. Jungkook rose his head to meet with Namjoon's brown orbs – twitched into a smile as he feels the solitude at the touch.

“By the way, the King had approved for you to have the jester at the ball…” told Namjoon.

Jungkook face immediately beamed with joyfulness, hugging his brother in excitement as he keeps on jumping – forcing Namjoon to do the same. The two brothers were having their brotherly moment before Yoongi came and interrupted the two brothers.

Yoongi kneeled with one feet in front of Namjoon. “Your Highness, the excursion of Kerin, Shazia, Rosea and Crahan were here…” reported Yoongi.

Namjoon gasped. “Already? Did you send our royal guards to welcome them? How about their chambers? Have the chamberlain² clean all the chambers at the foyer? Oh my God! I don’t even check myself about the food to be served to the Royals…”

Jungkook chuckled at Namjoon's panicking. Yoongi too has a small smile in his face, knowing that Namjoon is actually excited to receive the guests.

“Worry not Your Highness. Everything has been perfectly arranged for the Princes to feel comfortable in the palace…” said Yoongi.

Namjoon took a sigh of relieve. “That’s good…”

“Your Highness…you know that you shouldn’t be anywhere near the Princes until the ball right? The King’s order, you shall be resting in your chamber to make sure you are well-prepared for the ball, tonight…”

Namjoon pouted. “Hyung…not that I’m going to attack all the alphas…tsk..”

Jungkook laughed together with Yoongi at the saying. “Hyung, we were worried that the alpha will trigger your heat…” said Jungkook.

Namjoon rolled his eyes. “Yes, I know that Jungkook! But I need to make sure our final preparation for the ball. Just to make sure that there’s nothing will go wrong..”

“Your Highness, I believe the seneschal³ had to make sure everything needed for the ball is completely done. It’s their duty to arrange the event in this Great Hall…” explained Yoongi.

Namjoon nods. “What about the minstrel⁴?”

“Everything has been taken care of, Your Highness. Don’t you worry…”

“Oh dear Lord… You’re annoying hyung! Just sit back and relax. Let’s the person in charge of doing the job. You are a prince, this is not your concern, hyung!” refute Jungkook, a little bit annoyed at his brother’s obsession to make sure everything is perfect.

“Jungkook….you know that…”

“Yes I know, Your Highness. This is to make sure the image of the King being preserved and the event shall be at comfort to all the Princes. It’s about Erauri's honor and grace…”

Namjoon puffed at the cynical answer, playfully uttered by the young prince – to mock him. But seeing how Jungkook grinned at him sheepishly, Namjoon has no gut to scold at him. It’s really hard actually to get mad at Jungkook. His playful nature somehow very adorable and enjoyable.

“Ok, fine. Let’s go to the chambers and try the outfit for tonight Jungkook…” said Namjoon. Finally gives in at the persuasions of his brother.

“Much obliged Your Highness…”

Namjoon and Yoongi smile at Jungkook enthusiast now walking in front of the two – heading towards Namjoon's chamber while humming some random song.

“H-Hyung…? Emmm…”

Yoongi cocked his head to Namjoon on his side as they walking in unison. He notices how the crown prince fidgeting, fingers playing with the hem of his attire – clearly nervous. A tinge of pink hue painted on his chubby cheek. Yoongi arched an eyebrow.

“About…emm…you know?”

“No, I don’t know Your Highness…”

“Hyung…” Namjoon whined at the playful answer, nudged over Yoongi's shoulder.

Yoongi let out a quiet chuckle. “What is it, Your Highness? You seem …nervous?”

Namjoon released a deep sigh as he rubbed the back of his neck. “Aside from the four princes…what…what about the other Prince?” asked Namjoon as his face how totally reddened. He knows he shouldn’t be too oblivious but he can’t hold his heart neither his tongue to ask about the estrange prince that had a special place in his heart since the beginning.

Yoongi mouthed a silent ‘owh’ and glanced over the shy prince. He understands the direction of the question – specifically asked about the Prince of Kaen. Since their first encounter, Crown Prince had developed some feeling towards the austere prince.

“Well, as far as I’m the concern, the two Princes, from Kaen and Sharon will arrive any time soon…” told Yoongi. He steals a glance at the crown prince as he twitched into a meaningful smile and his fingers keep on fiddling with his attire.

“Can I say something, Your Highness?”

Namjoon tilted his head to see Yoongi. He instantly stops walking as he notices the serious expression of his royal guard. Yoongi was taken aback at the sudden action, but as far as he knows the Prince, Yoongi understands the reason to it.

“What is it hyung?” Namjoon asked.

Yoongi clears his throat before he speaks his mind to the crown prince. “This competition had been participated by six princes from various Kingdom. These kingdoms might not be as strong and powerful like Erauri, but we wouldn’t want to stir any problem with any of them. The effect will still be harrowing…”

Namjoon frowned at the statement. He stares at Yoongi and Namjoon knew that there still something important that needs to be conveyed by the guard. Namjoon didn’t say a word, waiting for the male to proceed with the speech.

“I know that you quietly fond over the Prince of Kaen. Maybe because he is the first alpha that gives such big impact to your omega pheromones. Now he is one of the participants with other princes. The six of them have the right to be equally judged…”

Namjoon took a breather listening to Yoongi concern. The Royal guard had worried that he might be biased toward the Prince of Kaen because he had developed the feeling against him. Yoongi is afraid that he might not be able to act fairly towards the other five princes. He perceived the intended meaning of Yoongi's solicitude.

Namjoon was about to give his opinion when suddenly the beta, kneeled in front of his – head hung low to the ground. Namjoon was flabbergasted at the action.

“I seek your forgiveness for my insolent and tactless point of view. I have no right to say such a thing to you and…”

“Hyung…”

Yoongi raised his head when Namjoon bends down and gripped on both of his shoulders. His eyes widen at the gesture as his eyes hovered around the hallway – afraid that the palace servants might see the unroyal act by the Crown Prince.

“Your Highness you shouldn’t…”

“Then please rise…don’t kneel before me like this…”

“But…”

“Or do you want me to kneel before you too, Royal Guard Min Yoongi?”

Yoongi was shocked at the saying, quickly stand and almost stumble at his hasty movement. Namjoon grabbed his forearm, stabilizing the guard feet. Yoongi quickly distances himself from the crown prince.

Namjoon clicked his tongue at the reaction, already accustomed to Yoongi strictly abide conduct in the palace.

“Hyung, about your concern. It is within my wisdom that this is a competition where everyone has the same chances and be equally treated. Do not dwell yourself with something that not going to happen. As the Crown Prince of Erauri, I know my priority…” reassured the Prince sternly.

Yoongi smile in content that the Crown Prince didn’t waver with his own feeling. He just hopes that the competition doesn’t cause any harm to anyone. He wished.

Namjoon sits on the bench as his heartbeat escalated abnormally, a trace of nervousness. He knew he shouldn’t be here at the royal garden when everyone is waiting for him to come down at the Great Hall for the ball. But he needs to calm himself down first before he made the first step to meet the six princes.

His eyes hovered around the beautiful flowers in the garden – giving him some sort of tranquility when he scented the fragrance of the flowers. He loved to spend some of his free time here, admiring the beauty. The dim light from the torch around the garden didn’t limit his sight to see the flowers blooming beautifully.

“What’s an omega like you doing here alone in the dark?”

Namjoon flinched at the sudden voice interrupting his reverie. He quickly stands and turned his body. His eyes widen when his nostril caught the strong scent.

Alpha! 

𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲:-

1) Jester:- referred to as the Fool or professional joker entertained the court

2) Chamberlain: an officer of a royal household who was responsible for the Chamber

3) Seneschal: took care of the castle estate and household administration including the events in the Great Hall. Also known as a steward.

4) Minstrel: provided Castle entertainment in the form of singing and playing musical instruments

Chapter Text

“Prince Seokjin, may I escort you to the hall?” said Yoongi begrudgingly. 

Chapter Text

“Dear Lord, so he is the Crown Prince of Erauri? Never have thought about the possibility!” said Hoseok as he shoved the meat to his mouth while his eyes staring at Taehyung and Namjoon. He was shocked when he saw Namjoon walked down the luxurious stairs with the King and Queen. His jaws almost dropped to the floor - metaphorically.

“It’s a huge crime to act ruthlessly in front of the royal, calling him a cad and forced him to bow while kneeling on the filthy ground. Don’t you think so Royal Guard Jung Hoseok?”

Hoseok almost choked on his meat before he violently spits the meat chunk. His face was flushed with red before he tilted his head and saw the pale beta – now looking at him with a smirk. Hoseok fisted his clothed chest to release the tighten feeling lingers around it.

“I..  I almost died because of a piece of meat you jughead! That will be the most disgrace way to die for a royal guard!” he scolds the beta.

Yoongi chuckles evilly, feeling happy to tease the chili pepper beta. “But still you'll die for being rude to our Crown Prince. You know that any act of insolent towards the royal family is punishable with death?”

Hoseok eyes widen at the realization, cursed to himself for acted ruthlessly when he met with the Crown Prince before. Now he will lose his head because of his stupid brain! Or should he beg the prince to spare his life? Or plead Prince Taehyung to save his ass? But what if his prince wants to behead him by his own sword for his rude behavior? Taehyung is smitten by the Crown Prince after all. Okay, I’m literally dead right now!

“Do you think the Crown Prince will spare my life for my prince's sake?” asked Hoseok timidly as his hand starts to rubs on his neck – shuddered in fear as he can feel the sharp sword slice his throat.

Yoongi frowned and looks at the beta bewildered. “What’s that supposed to mean peabrain?”

Hoseok rolled his eyes at the name but didn’t want to protest over it since he is not in the position to do so right now. “Well, my prince really likes the Crown Prince….” Hoseok halted for a second, eyes glancing the surrounding before he leaned onto Yoongi closer and starts to whisper. “He was frantically searching for the owner of the golden arrow for a month and almost behead our royal bowyer for failing to identify the royal monarch on the arrow…”

Yoongi arched his brows at Hoseok's story. He looks at the guard with disbelief but looking at how serious Hoseok is right now he can conclude that Taehyung had the same feeling about Namjoon. What an irony!

“Your prince sounded vicious to me…” said Yoongi blatantly.

Hoseok gasped in horror. “Yah! How could you call my prince like that! He's the King of Kaen for heaven sake. Such words are equal to blasphemy! It will cost your head!” said Hoseok as he makes unnecessary gestures – showing how Yoongi's throat going to be slit by his hand.

Yoongi scoffs at the absurd reaction. “Do you always to be this exaggerated Royal Guard Jung Hoseok?” he asked accusatorily.

Hoseok groaned in annoyance. “And do you always to be this pain in the ass Royal Guard….well whatsoever your name jughead!”

Yoongi scoffs at the absurd reaction. “Do you always exaggerated like this, Royal Guard Jung Hoseok?” he asked accusatorily.

Hoseok groaned in annoyance. “And do you always such pain in the ass like this, Royal Guard….well whatsoever your name jughead!” 

Yoongi couldn’t help himself from laughing at Hoseok childish demeanor, feeling amused. He ignores how Hoseok dramatize his gestures once again while he rolled his eyes out of irritation. He continues to eat the meat on his plate, disregard Yoongi's gummy smile.

However, such small motion from the beta that smelled like the mint leaves had caused his heart to thumps out of ordinary course. This time he almost choked his meat for another reason.  

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

When both princes continue to dance in the middle of the hall, capturing the eyes of the people - mesmerized at how they look good together. Both eyes are on each other, staring with fondness, and their lips smile tenderly; sparks jealousy of other princes that Prince Namjoon obviously shows his interest over the Prince of Kaen.

“But you know that I have to be fair in this match right?”

Taehyung pouted at the statement, slowly nods his head in defeat. He hates the fact that now he needs to compete with other five princes to win Namjoon's heart. He averted his eyes towards Hoseok that seems enjoying himself shoving all the meat into his mouth. He then squints his eyes in anger at the royal guard – making Hoseok cower from afar, choking his meat for the third time that night.

“I blame all these on my stupid and slow wits, royal guard!” Taehyung said begrudgingly, totally furious at Hoseok failure to carry on his duty.

Namjoon chuckles at Taehyung childish rant. “Please don’t, Your Highness. Such a poor soul shall not bear the misfit of our fates. Destiny eventually had brought you here to me and it’s worth something than nothing. Aren’t you agree with me?” said Namjoon in an advisory tone. Eyes gently stare at the alpha in front of him.

Taehyung flashed a squarish in shape smile, hearing Namjoon's words of wisdom – showing his white teeth and healthy gum. “I couldn't agree more, my omega…”

Namjoon blushed at the name, hearts pounding so fast that he can feel his face flush in embarrassment. His heart always flattering whenever the alpha called him as 'my omega'. He smiles shyly at Taehyung sweet talks, contended that the said alpha is really good at his speech. He had fallen for the alpha's charm once again.

“Do you think I’m able to win this match?” asked Taehyung. The expression change to sullen as his face darken and his voice become sour at the hits of reality. Dejected that Namjoon couldn't be his yet.

Namjoon takes a deep breath at the sudden query. “I can't answer that Your Highness. You are the one that needs to show to me. I’m – I'm going to root for you… pray for your victory...secretly…” said Namjoon, whispering. His face becomes crimson red, eyes on the dance floor - embarrassed.

Taehyung perked up hearing Namjoon's words. "I beg your pardon?"

Namjoon bits his lips as he tries to repeat his words. "I'll pray for your...victory."

“Really? You will do that for me??” asked Taehyung gleefully, feeling happy at Namjoon's words.

Namjoon tilted his head to the side, not wanting to see the alpha, feeling shy as he speaks his own heart openly like that. But seeing the alpha's glowing face and how his rosemary scent disseminates around them – Namjoon flashed his gorgeous smile at the alpha, entrance the prince.

“I’ll show you, my love and you will be proud of me…”

Namjoon and Taehyung curved a beautiful smile towards each other as their heart been sipped by the spark of love – feeling overwhelmed that now they had found each other. Being together like this makes their bond stronger and the desire to be each other mates becomes more intense on each second.

Their erratic heart was beating the same melody, playing the love song and sinking down the instrument played by the minstrel. Together they were in their own world, ignoring all the eyes that been fixated at them - green with envy.

“Only love….”

“Begets love… my precious omega…”

“What a pretty omega…”

Jimin flinched at the sudden remarks and when he turned his head he saw the young and handsome prince of Erauri – gawking at Jimin with his round eyes. Jimin smirked at the flirtatious word, knowing that an alpha like Jungkook always preys over small and weak-like omega like Jimin.

“I’ll consider it as a compliment, Your Highness. Park Jimin, the Prince of Sharon…” said Jimin politely as he introduce himself to the young alpha prince.

Jungkook grinned sheepishly, kind of like Jimin's personality. “Ah, you are Prince Seokjin's brother. No wonder you have the same intimidating aura like him. A willful and strong prince…” he said subtly.

Jimin smile at the prince. “Do you indicate that I’m not a typical omega, Prince Jungkook?” he asked with an accusatory tone.

Jungkook raised one of his brows at the allegation before he shook his head as an early answer. He then explained himself towards the beautiful omega prince.

“You read me wrong Prince Jimin. I’ve grown up with my strong omega brother, Prince Namjoon. Nothing in me had been thought to underestimate the ability of an omega. Here in Erauri, everyone is equal and been treated fairly. No alpha is superior to omega. You were only be adjudged for your intelligent and capability. Not because of your sub-gender…”

To say that Jimin wasn’t fascinated with such speech – will be a total lie. He did amazed with the young prince and he thinks Jungkook is not the typical arrogant and self-centered alpha like his half brother, Seokjin.

Jimin stares at the alpha. He is handsome, with chiseled good look and hypnotic dark brown eyes that makes other alpha he ever known pale in comparison. And he looks younger than him too.

“I can’t deny myself that you are good with your words Prince Jungkook. Young and wise…” said Jimin, giving some credit towards the younger prince.

Jungkook huffed at the mentioned of his young age. “I’m reliable too Prince Jimin. Age just a number and maybe I can be a good alpha for you too…” he said as a self-pride. Eyes boring into Jimin's beautiful brown orbs that fixated at his face.

Jimin let out a boisterous laugh at the high confidence owned by the Erauri's prince. Jungkook surely has a gut to even presented himself as the rightful alpha for him. Isn’t that too oblivious for a prince like Jungkook?

“What’s so funny Prince Jimin?” asked Jungkook with a cold and deep voice – growling a little bit at Jimin's unexpected reaction. As if the beautiful omega didn’t take seriously his words. He might be seventeen but he had matured enough.

Jimin tone down his laughter clears his throat as it feels dries after the long talk with Jungkook. As he speaks he smiles fondly at the alpha and slowly releasing his jasmine scent to calm the alpha. Which he believes he succeeded in doing so when Jungkook's stiff shoulders slowly slumped down.

“My sincere apology, Your Highness. But you are really a tenacious alpha. I’m quite impressed that a young alpha like you already possessed a good quality as an outstanding prince…” said Jimin with a delicate voice, purposely making it sounded like melodious to captivate the heart of the agitate alpha.

Jungkook devours his saliva at the flattering remark – heart thumping out of beat as his nostril been struck by the jasmine scent emitted by the gorgeous omega. What a nice smell.

Jimin then chugged the wine that he had been holding before, peeking through the glass to look at the darker the shade of red painted on the alpha's perfect physiognomy – mesmerized how he looks deadly handsome.

“You know what?” said Jimin, halted for a second as he put the cooper glass onto the near table at the corner of the hall. He glanced at Jungkook that had raised one of his brows – waiting for him to continue his talk. Jimin curved a smile.

“You can be a good King of Erauri…” said Jimin.

Jungkook eyes widen at the statement, eyes quickly hovered around to see if someone overheard Jimin. “Prince Jimin! That’s such a dangerous statement! You shouldn’t say that at a place like this. You will be punished with death!” whisper-yelled Jungkook as he leaned forward to Jimin to make their distance closer – afraid someone will eavesdrop their conversation.

Jimin chuckles at the reaction, feeling amused how Jungkook easily agitates at his statement. “Calm down, Your Highness. You’re exaggerating. I have no mala fide in giving my thought. It’s just a mere word, doesn’t carry any weight in it and you have no reason to consider it seriously….Well do you?”

Jungkook grits his teeth, feeling wrath at the omega audacity to test his loyalty towards Erauri. He can see the smirk on Jimin's white face as he is enjoying himself to tease the young alpha. Jungkook exhaled a deep breath, trying not to show his anger.

“I have no reason to agree with the talk, Prince Jimin. And I hope you know your boundaries when you speak your mind about this matter. I can charge you with treason and you will be thrown away to the underground prison right away…” said Jungkook, using his alpha tone to show how serious his speech is. Eyes boring directly at the omega.

Jimin breathe hitched at the change of the mood, shudder at the stern voice belong to the young prince. As his eyes dilated with how strong the alpha pheromones been released, Jimin couldn’t help himself from submitting to the authority of the alpha.

“My – my apology Your Highness…” said Jimin, stammering in his words. Feeling regret that he ever try to tease the alpha. He never thought that Jungkook will react in such a way. He should be more careful when he speaks to the prince.

Jungkook huffed in frustration. Frustrated that he had let himself to get angry at the omega and also frustrated that Jimin had said such a thing to him. He strokes his dark hair with his slender finger and let out a sigh before darted again his eyes towards the omega in front of him.

“I think I should give you my answer Prince Jimin. Not that I’m trying to clarify your allegation just now but more to justify the misunderstanding. Prince Namjoon, despite being an omega had possessed all the traits as the alpha. Maybe better than any alpha princes present here tonight. He is the Crown Prince of Erauri and no one can deny that!”

“I – I understand Your Highness. I seek your forgiveness for my ruthless action just now…”

Jungkook groaned in frustration before he nods slightly. He didn’t expect for them to end up like this, but he has every reason to feel mad at the omega. He can tolerate everything but not when someone talks lowly about his brother.

Jungkook then left the omega alone as the mood between him and Jimin had suddenly turned to sour. He doesn't even turn for once to see the guilt-ridden omega and had missed seeing the tears on Jimin's eyes.

Taehyung and Namjoon joined the other princes at the dining table after their dance ended – together with the King and Queen. The King had a toss, welcoming the six princes and their entourage before proceed to finish the dinner feast.

“My sons, you will have a good rest for tonight after the long journey. And tomorrow we will have a meeting at the banquet – for you to be briefed about the first match on the next day…”

All the princes at the dining table have their sole focus on the King when he had made the announcement. Raised the cooper glass up to their head as the tossed speech ends - an act of respect.

“Is this going to involve a physical match, Your Majesty?” asked Kihyun with curiosity.

The King smile at the Crahan's prince. “What do you think about that Prince Kihyun?”

Kihyun was flabbergasted when the King directed the question to him – immediately regret that he had brazenly asked the King first. He then clears his throat before he answered. “Well, as much as I didn’t like any physical activity, I think this match has no exception to that…”

The King laughed at the answer and he nods in agreement with Kihyun. “Indeed. You can’t be a good King if you didn’t prove yourself to be a good fighter. And for you to be the alpha for Prince Namjoon, you have to be equipped with a good skill in the battlefield…”

A few groaned erupted at the dining table and the King smile for the small protest by the princes. He knew it won’t be easy for some of the princes but this has to be done. Namjoon needs a strong alpha to help him to rule Erauri. An alpha that he can rely on when his omega instinct goes against him – especially on the battlefield.

“Since you need a good and strong fighter, isn't that mean Prince Namjoon is lacking in it?"

Everyone gasped at the brave remarks, now looking at the said prince; Yugyeom. He had a smug expression, ignoring the sharp stares from other princes. Yugyeom bats his eyes on the King and once a while glanced over Namjoon who sit beside his father. He smirks when he saw the shocked face of the crown prince.

The King was stunned at the audacity but nonetheless, he already knew Prince Yugyeom demeanor. He averts his eyes to his omega son who flashed an assuring smile before the King had his eyes once again forward – facing the princes.

“As all of you know, the Crown Prince himself had been raised as equal as an alpha. Having said that, he will participate with all of you. And you can decide whether he is worth your time or not…” said the King in a calm voice.

He looks at the princes one by one, giving them a stern look – to show his confidence against his own son. It’s a lie if he didn’t been hurt by the belittling remarks made by Yugyeom or any alpha who always look down at Namjoon. He is a father before a king. He is proud of Namjoon, being a strong omega – breaking the stigma of the troupe that always thought low about his sub gender.

The King definitely have faith that Namjoon will become a great King for Erauri – even without an alpha. But he couldn’t deny the fact that Namjoon needs his alpha for his heat. He didn’t want to jeopardize Namjoon's life just because of his desire for him to solely reign the kingdom. It’s a selfish act of a King.

“Why are you crying, my son?”

Namjoon quickly wipes his remaining tears as his father steps into his chamber but he knew that his father already sees his crying. He suddenly feels ashamed of himself for letting his emotion engulfing him.

Namjoon fidgeting on his bed when his father flumps at his side – eyes gawking at him with concern. Namjoon feels his throat dry at the presence of the King, his finger plays with his own shirt. Nervous.

The King sighed at the sight of his omega son. He took Namjoon's hand and pats on the back of it – trying to drag his attention to him and at the same time to soothe his anxiety. “Tell me Namjoon…”

Namjoon holds up his breath for a second at the stern voice of his father – using his alpha order to dig out the secret from Namjoon. “Father…” he couldn’t talk further as he almost choke his tears and the same agony hits him once again. He can’t hide his sadness in front of his father anymore.

The King try his best not to be distracted at the breakdown of the young prince. He knew Namjoon needs his calm approach so that he can lean on him to be able to tell about his problems. He was sixteen, still young and vulnerable after being presented as an omega.

“Am I, am I useless to you?” asked Namjoon as the droplet of his tears soaking wet his protruding cheeks. Eyes boring into his father's hazel orbs, asking for an answer from the King.

The King was taken aback at the question, brows furrowed and almost meet at the end. “From where did you hear this absurd thing Prince Namjoon?” he asked with voice rising an octave. He was mad to hear that from the omega prince.

Namjoon breathe hitched at the harsh tone, shuddered in fear when he looks at his father's angry expression. A face that he not used to show to his sons. The King is well-known for his calmness and subtle personality. Namjoon realized he had made his father heartbroken with his words just now.

“Tell me Prince Namjoon, ” The King had alpha ordered the omega, knowing that the prince won’t open his mouth if he didn’t do so.

Namjoon trembling in fear as his head dangled down looking at his hand laid down on his lap. “Fr – from the boys at the missionary. They – they said that I’m… I’m a useless prince for you, that – that I can’t be the King because I’m an om – omega…” tells Namjoon, stuttering in his speech as he sobs in sorrow. Eyes still on his hand, scared to see his father's expression.

The King growled in anger and he immediately rose up from Namjoon's bed. Namjoon was shocked to see the wrath of the King and his body shivers profusely.

“How dare! Who's that imbecile peasant? Who had the gut to say such words to my prince? To the Crown Prince of Erauri? I'll sever their tongue so that they won’t speak such nonsense again!”

Namjoon who was shaking terribly seeing the King's anger, immediately kneeled down on the floor as he cries for forgiveness.

“Your – your Majesty… I seek for your mercy… please don’t – don’t punish them for such trivial matter… I’m not that sad… I’m just… I’m just…”

Namjoon couldn’t continue his pleas as he was sobbing and he flinched when the King grips on his shoulder, forcing him to stand up and face the King. However, Namjoon couldn’t meet with the eyes of the father, scared to see the pain in his father’s eyes.

“Namjoon, you are my son… my precious son. I might be the King of this Kingdom where people depend on me. Besides that, I’m your father. It’s my duty to protect you from any danger. I can’t let those people talk to you like that. You’re the Crown Prince, the future King of Erauri – omega or not you are their King.”

Namjoon gasped when his body now in the arms of his father where he can feel how the big hand of the King caressed gently his back – up and down. Namjoon lips quiver in sorrow as he wrapped his arms to his father's waist and hide his face on the crook of King's neck.

“I’m sorry father…I’m sorry for making you sad…” he mumbles as he continues to cry.

The King pats on his head, humming at his son's non-stop apologies. “It's okay, it's okay son. Just…just don’t think such thing again about yourself. You are my pride Kim Namjoon…”

“Yes, father!”

“It will be something I will look for in this match, Your Majesty…”

The King’s trance had been interrupted by Yugyeom cynical voice. The King look at the young prince, almost burst out his anger if Namjoon didn’t grab a hold of his hand underneath the table. The King tilted his head towards his son where he can see how beautiful he is smiling – serene and calm.

Namjoon leaned forward towards his father, lips closer to the ears and whispered to the King. “Let me handle this on the field, Your Majesty…”

The King eyes batting over his omega son before he twitched into a small smile – knowing that his son had his own way to tackle the arrogant alpha. “As you wish, Prince Namjoon.”

Yugyeom used his almost non-existent energy to shove the arms under his chin, strangling his neck. His eyes widened as he stares in shock at the figure in front of him.  He shuddered in fear when the knife on the right hand of the said male was so close to his face. Yugyeom realizes that if he moves an inch, the end of the knife will grave his cheek. But the knee that been pressed on his chest makes him impossible to even move.

"Learn your respect Prince Yugyeom. Omega is not always as weak as you thought. You will encounter one, as strong as me. You should be glad that this is not a battlefield. If not I'll not spare your life and I won't hesitate to slit your throat..."

Yugyeom gulped at the warning, looking at the omega prince bewildering. The scent of dianthus emits by the prince was intimidating and delirious. Despite the fact that his whole body was covered in mud, it can't hide how gorgeous Namjoon is - shining under the bright sun.

And Yugyeom won't be lying when he said that Namjoon had captivated his heart at that spur of moment. And he swears in the name of Shizia, he will make Namjoon as his omega.

Chapter Text

"Nothing but the truth Yugyeom!" chided Namjoon as he hits Yugyeom gut with his elbow as hard as he can and at the same time, he stepped on Yugyeom right foot with his boot.

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

“I’m glad you come Prince Taehyung…”

“Nam – Namjoon?”

Namjoon flashed his beautiful smile when he saw Taehyung that looks utterly shocked upon seeing him in the royal garden. Nonetheless, Taehyung walked forward, approaching the crown prince with clear confusion all over his face.

“Wh-what are you doing here? And... And why did you asked to meet me here, Your Highness?” asked Taehyung, couldn’t contain his curiosity any longer.

Taehyung tilted his head left and right to see anyone else that might be there with them but none. Only him and Namjoon presence at the royal garden. Not even Namjoon's royal guard, Min Yoongi. What is happening?

Namjoon let out a soft chortle at the non-stop questions. Ignoring the quizzical look of the Kaen's prince, Namjoon moves towards a wooden bench nearby and sit comfortably. He then beckons on the prince to sit beside him, patting softly at the empty spot with a smile.

Taehyung grunts as his question been left unattended by the omega but still took a seat beside Namjoon - hesitantly. The smell of sweet dianthus lingers around and Taehyung feels exceptionally calm and serene at the spur of the moment.

Namjoon turned his body to face up with Taehyung, grab on the prince's face with his soft hand. A gasp emitted from Taehyung's lips as he didn’t expect for such touch from the omega. His eyelashes bat rapidly as his eyes meet with Namjoon's hazel orbs.

Namjoon released a deep sighed before his thumb brush on the cut at the end of Taehyung's lip, feeling hurt to see the small cut had tainted Taehyung's handsome face. There is a small blizzard at his left brow too, a little bit deep from the first one, with the dried blood surrounding it.

Namjoon took out a small metal box from his robe, slowly lift the lid where a medicine-like balm with green color in it. Without hesitation, he carefully put the herbs on Taehyung's lips with his finger - delicately.

Taehyung hissed in pain when the cold herbs been applied onto his lips. His heart, however, pounded at the close proximity between him and Namjoon, succumbing the pain of his wound. 

“Nam-Namjoon? What are you doing?” Taehyung asked, stammering in his speech as he was too nervous at their current situation.

“I made this by myself, using the yarrow¹ flower. It is like magic, treating the wound. It helps to heal the wound faster. It is good and been helping a lot of injured warriors during battle…” Namjoon said.

Taehyung holds his breath hearing the explanation of the crown prince. Their distance was too close and Taehyung can feel the warm breath exhales by Namjoon – slapping into his face softly. Taehyung eyes hovered around Namjoon's perfect physiognomy, trailing over his gorgeous eyes to his nose and finally fixated on his luscious lips.

Taehyung had the desire to kiss the plump lips, tasting the softness of the fleshy part into his. Those pouty lips were so red and succulent. The urge to just kiss them was so overwhelming and it felt as Taehyung would go mad if the chance never came.

He wonders how does it taste? Will Namjoon's lips taste so sweet like caramel or a little bit spicy as the cinnamon? Either way, Taehyung will love it.

“Is this the reason why you called me here?” asked Taehyung when Namjoon seems too focused on treating his not so serious injury. He let out another hiss when Namjoon pressed his finger over his wound on his brow.

Namjoon was taken aback at the question, hand immediately halted – hanging in the air awkwardly. He stares at Taehyung, looking deeply into his orbs as he tries to read the alpha.

Namjoon gasped in horror before he retreats his hand. “Did – did I make you uncomfortable, Your Highness? I thought… Oh, Lord! I’m so foolish to realize that you might not like this…” Namjoon rants as his voice cracked and his eyes started to well up with tears. Namjoon instantly shot up from the bench, trying to distance himself and Taehyung.

Taehyung was startled at Namjoon unexpected reaction, immediately pulled his hand and forcefully dragged the omega to sit once again. He embraced the almost crying prince, stroking his back tenderly; up and down.

Namjoon let out a soft sniffle, buried his face on Taehyung's nape. His tears cascade down from his eyelids, soaking the prince garment but Namjoon couldn’t care less right now. He was sad that Taehyung didn't accept his good intention to treat his injury.

“Oh my! Forgive me, Your Highness. I didn’t mean it that way. You had read me wrong. I was just wondering as to why you want to meet me here, not that I didn’t like it though…” explained Taehyung – feeling guilty for making the omega to misunderstand his non-existence rejection. 

Taehyung runs his fingers on Namjoon black silky hair as the prince crying in his embrace. He pecked on the hair for once where he can smell the sweet scent of it and continue to coddle the prince – preventing him from crying further.

Taehyung pulled away from the hug, staring at the reddened face of Namjoon. His heart clenched at the view of the droplet of tears; smeared all over his face. However, despite being sad that his omega was crying because of him – Taehyung couldn’t hide the fact that Namjoon looks really endearing right now.

Taehyung wipes the remaining tears with his finger softly. “Those tears even look so beautiful falling from your gorgeous eyes, I still didn’t like to see it on your face, my omega…” he notes.

Namjoon bits his lower lips, feeling abashed at the sudden compliment. His head dangled down, looking at his fidgeting fingers playing with the hem of his robe. His cheeks had a tinge of pink hue, feeling so warm even the night breeze was a little bit chilly in the royal garden.

Namjoon flinched when Taehyung touched his hand out of sudden, making whatever he was doing before into a halt.

“Your hand is freezing my prince!” exclaimed Taehyung. Without asking permission he locked their hands together, intertwined perfectly filling the gap between each finger.

Namjoon’s heart swamp with exuberance seeing their interlace fingers and his lips curved into an enamored smile. When he lifted his gaze to meet with Taehyung's, his heart skips a beat.

“I – I was really afraid today…” whispered Namjoon but still clear to Taehyung's ear. He averted his eyes back to their interlock fingers.

Taehyung frowned. “Afraid of what, Your Highness?”

Namjoon holds his breath for a second before he let it out dejectedly. “To see the blood on your face…” he mentioned shakily, on the verge of crying as he reminiscing the memory of the mud fight earlier.

It was never in his mind that he will be agitated when he saw Taehyung was injured in the fight. Despite he had won against the Erauri's warrior, he still couldn’t set aside the fact that the Kaen Prince had been wounded.

“Prince Namjoon, you worried too much. You know that it is unforeseen and it is expected in a fight like that…” Taehyung says as his thumb caressed the back of Namjoon's hand softly.

Taehyung can feel how Namjoon's body tensed at his words and how he bits his lower lips to muffle his cry. Taehyung didn’t have any intention to belittle the concern of the omega prince but the twos were well known about this kind of situation.

They were used to fight fiercely in the battlefield. Everyone had envisaged that injury was inevitable in a fight during the war. For Namjoon to voice out his worry is something trivial but nonetheless, Taehyung was happy to hear that too.

“But still, it hurts to see you like that…” said Namjoon weakly, overwhelmed with his own emotion. He clutched his hand over his clothed chest, to show how his heart feels the pain to see Taehyung’s blood been shed in such a simple fight.

Taehyung was about to say something when Namjoon's tears drop into his hand, startling him for a second. Taehyung put his hand under Namjoon's chin and lift his head so that the omega will look into him.

The glistening eyes of the omega look beautiful and Taehyung flashed a soft smile. “I’m flattered that you worried about me but please don’t cry…”

Namjoon scrunched his nose, wiping off his snots that threatened to flow from his nose. He was embarrassed that he had shown his ugly side in front of the alpha. He pouted thinking that the alpha might think it is disgusting to see his mucus.

Taehyung chuckles when he saw the gnawed lips. He moved his face closer and pressed his lips into Namjoon's. Namjoon's breathe hitched when he can feel the softness of Taehyung's lips, clenched tightly onto his own robes – didn’t know how to react to the kiss.

When their lips parted, Namjoon can feel how warm Taehyung's breath on his lip – his heart swell with a new sensation. Taehyung leaned his forehead on Namjoon's and his right-hand palm on Namjoon's cheek.

“You smell good Namjoon-ah…” he whispered softly, continuing to inhale Namjoon's dianthus scent.

Namjoon chuckles breathily. He never felt so good when someone said his name as Taehyung. It's sounded heavenly how Taehyung uttered his name with so much love in his raspy voice. He got a goosebump and his heartbeat escalated.

As his dianthus scent mixed up with Taehyung's Rosemary scent, Namjoon was delirious. It's so intoxicating that he couldn’t help himself from further submitting himself towards the alpha.

“Can I – can I kiss you again?” asked Taehyung.

Namjoon takes a sharp inhaled before he nods. “You have the right, alpha…”

Taehyung didn’t wait for a second as he grasps Namjoon's soft cheek and dives in for the second kiss. His other hand was cupping the back of Namjoon's neck, pressing their lips harder – deepening the kiss.

It was nothing lustful but sweet and gentle. The kiss was passionately between two lovers, an alpha who had found his rightful omega – upon months of repressed feelings. Even it is too early to claim Namjoon as his omega but their bond already intact from their first meeting. This is exactly their inner instinct ever wanted since in the beginning.

They didn’t feel any wrong kissing each other in the royal garden, under the moonlight. The bright full moon shone beautifully in the garden, romantically anticipated their kissing.

Taehyung’s hand that used to be on Namjoon's cheek now moved to the back of his head, running through his hair as he keeps kissing the omega slowly in soft and reverent manners. He slides his tongue along the bottom of Namjoon's lips, pulls slightly at Namjoon's hair so that his head tilted to the back a little bit.

Namjoon moaned when Taehyung scatters his kiss through his cheek and jawline before moving down to his exposed neck. Taehyung sniffs the scent gland, trying hard not to claim the omega – biting his soft skin to make him as his omega; officially.

This is not the right time to do it. He keeps reminding himself in between his kissing. He has no right to do so, not when they were in the midst of competition to be Namjoon's rightful alpha. He might have the advantages since Namjoon likes him more than the other princes, but Taehyung is a royal. A man made from royalty, behold the power and chastise attitude. He won’t claim Namjoon unlawfully. Not without being the absolute winner in the competition.

Taehyung licked the scent gland, tasting the sweetness of Namjoon's skin and his heart pounded when he heard the sinful moan emitted by the omega. He growled at his incapability to claim the omega, buried his face into Namjoon's crook of nape and huffing in frustration.

“I wish I can claim you as mine, Namjoon-ah…” he whined like a child with disappointment obviously lies in his deep voice.

Namjoon hugged Taehyung tightly, stroking his hair fondly. “I wish the same…but let us wait a little bit. When you win the competition, I'll be yours, Taehyung…”

Taehyung hummed at the mentioned of his real name, whining a little bit before he lifts his head to see the omega. Namjoon's face was crimson red and his lips a little bit swelled due to their passionate kiss just now. Besides that, Namjoon looks ethereal beauty and Taehyung chest inflate with pride that the gorgeous omega was his.

Taehyung intertwined their fingers once again, staring at it for a few seconds before he put his lips on the back of Namjoon's hand. Namjoon giggles at his action, feeling weird and happy at the same time for Taehyung's attentive nature.

Taehyung averts his eyes towards Namjoon, gawking over him with his lovely eyes. “I love you Kim Namjoon, my omega…” he says ingenuously.

Namjoon gasped and almost choke at the confession. His eyes start to well in tears before he curved into a smile. “I love you Kim Taehyung, my alpha…”

Jaehwan was restless to stand in front of the Erauri's King. To say that he was shocked might be an understatement. He was afraid actually. When the royal guard sends him a note stating that the King wanted to meet him that night – Jaehwan almost got a heart attack.

He got cold feet to be in the King's secret chamber, standing awkwardly with both hands on his back. He had been statically there for more than five minutes and Jaehwan had been sweating profusely.

The King might appear as approachable and a warm person – but he is still a King of a great Kingdom. His aura is intimidating and being a strong alpha had made him powerful. Jaehwan devours in fear as the King's sharp eyes directly stabbed into his body.

“You may wonder the reason of this secret meeting, Prince Jaehwan…”

Jaehwan only nods as he feels his throat dry to even answer the simple question. Eyes on the emotionless King's face.

The King chuckles looking at the fidgeting prince. “I’m rooting for you in this competition, Prince Jaehwan,” says the King, clear and stern but trying to give assurance to the prince that he has no ill intention calling him in the middle of the night like this.

Jaehwan instantly arched his brows in confusion. “Forgive my ruthless act, Your Majesty. But I didn't fully grasp your meaning though…”

The King smile. “I will give my hand to help you to win this competition…” explained him further.

Jaehwan jaw almost dropped to the floor, flickered shut his eyes trying to make sure that he didn’t hear anything absurd. The King will help him? Really?

“Fear not Prince Jaehwan. No one will ever know about this. It is a secret between you and me. I'll make sure that you will be the alpha for Prince Namjoon…”

Jaehwan was stupefied, didn’t know how to respond in front of the King. He’s happy. It’s not a lie. He always wanted Namjoon to be his omega. He wanted to be the alpha of the crown prince. He had fallen in love on the first sight when he saw the prince at the ball. He was smitten with the omega's beauty and personality.

“Isn’t this considered as cheating, Your Majesty?” spoke Jaehwan, a little bit worried about the plan.

The King laughed heartily, fully understand the wary heart of the Rosea's Prince.

“Either it was cheating or a father's concern, I’m doing this for the sake of my son, Prince Jaehwan…”

Jaehwan took a deep breather. “Why me Your Majesty?” he asked in curiosity.

It is questionable that the King had chosen him among the six princes. Everyone has their own strength and Jaehwan can name a few that will be a great contender; like Seokjin and Taehyung. But why him?

The King look at the young alpha prince for a second before he answered firmly. “Because I trusted you more than the other princes…”

Jaehwan feels proud of the statement, taking it as a great compliment by the King of Erauri. However, he still couldn't convince his dubious heart to agree with the plan.

"What will the Crown Prince says about this, Your Majesty?" Voice out Jaehwan. It is his biggest concerned right now.

The King smirk at the Rosea's prince, looking at him with his sharp eyes, causing Jaehwan to jolt in fear.

"Extraordinary circumstances require extraordinary measures, Prince Jaehwan," the King finally notes.

“You’ve committed a grave sin, Namjoon!”

Namjoon let out a small yelped at the cold voice, eyes widen when he saw Yoongi was in his chamber – looking at him with a murderous stare, standing in the middle of the room.

Namjoon clears his throat before he walked nervously to his bed, fixing his night garment with a shaken hand. He slumped onto the mattress, head dangled down to the floor as his eyes staring at his curling toes.

“You shouldn’t do that, Namjoon…” said Yoongi again without breaking the eye contact with Namjoon. He knows that Namjoon understands as to what he had referred to.

Namjoon gnawed his lower lips, fiddling with his fingers in anxiousness. He didn’t dare to lift his head to see Yoongi’s face. He knows that the beta was mad at him. In fact, he was shocked to see the royal guard in his chambers. He didn’t expect that Yoongi had the knowledge about his secret meeting with Taehyung.

“You know that if he didn't win the competition, you can't …”

“Hyung, I love him…” mutters Namjoon abruptly as the words slipping from his mouth faster than he can stop himself - interrupting Yoongi's speech. His doe eyes looking at the beta fills with sad and agony.

Yoongi was taken aback at the sudden confession, holding his breath when he saw the crown prince is on the verge of crying.

“I really love him, hyung. What should I do now? I can’t live without him…” says Namjoon with a trembling voice and a look of pain flashing across his face. Namjoon glares at the ground momentarily, tears starting to stream down his face.

As mentioned by Yoongi, Namjoon can't comprehend the consequences if Taehyung failed to win the competition. What will happen then? He can't be with Taehyung anymore?

It's horrendous to think and Namjoon's heart throbbing with pain at the thought. He let out a small sob, hiding his face with both of his hand and continue to cry in front of his royal guard miserably.

“Namjoon-ah…”

“Help me hyung! He's my alpha! I'm his...his omega...”

𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲:-

1) Yarrow flower - According to Greek mythology, whenever the mighty warrior Achilles became injured in battle, he used the yarrow herb to help heal his wounds faster, and even covered his body with a tincture made from the leaves to stay invincible against arrows. Even his loyal soldiers used it, too. Yarrow stands out as a top remedy to stop wounds from bleeding.

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

All the princes now gathered in the banquet once again for their new mission on the next day. Everyone was anticipating and eager to know about it and the King seems enthusiast looking at all the six princes. His eyes glanced once a while at Prince Jaehwan while the later giving him a discreet smile secretly.

"Well, I hope all of you have the good rest this time, " speaks the King with a wide smile. His eyes hovered on the fresh and energetic faces of all the princes one by one. Feeling satisfied that the princes didn't show any disagreement or displeased like before. Especially Prince Yugyeom.

"As for today, the next mission will be hunting in the forest..." he continues.

A few murmurs erupted at the long table, a little bit taken aback at the new announcement. They had expected for another fight - maybe at the ring or another mud field but not hunting.

"All of you will embark on a journey to the Last Willow forest and bring back the biggest prey before the dawn."

"Are we going to hunt by ourselves?" asked Kihyun, a little bit concerned to go for hunting in an unknown forest alone.

The King smiled at the concern. "You are allowed to bring your royal guard." He said firmly.

Everyone released a relieved signed, feeling content that they were able to bring the guard this time. It will be dangerous for them to wander alone in the deep forest. They were exposed to unforeseen risk and as the prince, their safety is the main priority.

"And for the one with the biggest prey, will have a date with the Crown Prince for a day..." the King further said.

Every eye in the banquet widen including Namjoon. They were flabbergasted at the rewards in a few seconds before everyone had the grin on their face as they look at the flushed face of the Crown Prince.

Namjoon leaned closer to his father before he whispered to the ears. "Father, you didn't say anything about this to me..."

The King let out a soft chortle before he pats on Namjoon's hand on his lap. "It's a surprise. Don't you want to get to know the prince further? A dance at the ball didn't sufficient for you to read their personality. A date is a must..."

Namjoon inhaled a deep breath at his father's saying. "I understand father..."

Namjoon averted his eyes to Yoongi who had been looking at him. Namjoon had a stern face, staring at the royal guard. Reminiscing their heated argument last night. He then turned his eyes to Taehyung who seated at the end of the table. Taehyung was smiling fondly at him. Namjoon furtively curved into a smile at his alpha - been watched by Yoongi with disheartened.

"Remember, you have to bring the prey before the sun set down. No foul play. You have to hunt and catch the prey by yourself, not the guard, " the King notes with an unrelenting voice.

A few disapproved grunts can be heard through the tables but nonetheless, they have no choice except to obey the King. It might be such a hassle to hunt in a foreign forest other than in their own kingdom - but Namjoon was worth for it.

Everyone was excited to show to the omega prince their capability as the alpha. The six had sworn to win and Namjoon can be their official mate. A date with Namjoon is a great reward and they couldn't wait to be alone with the omega and to get closer with him.

"Forgive me, Your Majesty, but can I join the hunt?"

All eyes now turn to the omega, looking at him with a mixture of emotions. Seokjin peered over his brother with distaste at his audacity to volunteer himself ruthlessly. Jimin ignored the piercing gaze, waiting for the King to give his thought.

The King smiles at the omega, fascinated at his courageous. He averted his eyes towards Namjoon who had been looking at the King with a proud smile too.

"Of course Prince Jimin. No one can forbid you to show your value as the omega in Erauri. You have the same opportunity as the other alpha. .."

Jimin twitched into a wide smile, feeling contended that the King had allowed him to join the hunt. He shrugs at Seokjin when the alpha scoffs at him with displeased.

"I'll assign a guard for you, Prince Jimin, " said the King.

"Your Majesty, I would like to invite Prince Jimin to go with me instead..."

The King was surprised at the proposal, looking at his son with arched brows. Jimin was flabbergasted at the suggestion too, didn't expected that Namjoon wants him to accompany the crown prince.

"What say you Prince Jimin?" asked the King towards the omega prince.

Jimin nods almost instantly. Doesn't have any intention to decline the offer. It was a golden opportunity for Jimin to get closer to Namjoon. It will help with his plan further. "It is my pleasure to accompany Prince Namjoon."

"Since Prince Jimin will go with me, Royal Guard Min Yoongi will regulate Prince Seokjin's safety..." said Namjoon.

"Your Highness! It is my duty to protect and guard your security!" Yoongi protested as he was shocked to hear the decree.

Namjoon glanced at the Royal guard before he averted his eyes to the King with affirmative expression. "Let Yoongi go with Prince Seokjin and Mingyu will accompany me and Prince Jimin, " suggested Namjoon. However, his tone was more to a decision rather than asking an opinion.

The King halted for a second, thinking the pro and cons of such request. But if he was to adjudge his son's ability and capability he has no reason to worry. Mingyu was an experience squire even though he's still young. He had been with Namjoon for years and already well-versed of Namjoon's needs whenever he went for hunting or even at the battlefield.

"Granted, my son..." he finally approved delightfully.

"But Your Majesty..." Yoongi was trying to protest. He couldn't let Namjoon out there without him being side by side with Namjoon. It is dangerous.

"Don't worry too much Yoongi. I believe Namjoon is able to take care of himself. And Mingyu will be there for him..." the King cut the guard's speech with his stern eyes.

Yoongi couldn't disobey the King resolution. He bows in defeat and when he glanced at the crown prince, Namjoon was obviously trying to avoid him. Yoongi feels uneasy at the cold treatment. He knows that the prince was disappointed at him after their argument last night. Namjoon deliberately assigned him with Seokjin as the punishment.

This is too harsh!

"Thank you for allowing me to join you, your Highness..." Jimin says genuinely after the King left the banquet for another formal event.

Namjoon smiles fondly at the beautiful omega. "It's my pleasure Prince Jimin. Since you were here, we haven't had time to get to know each other. I think this is the right time for us to bond together. Don't you agree?" mentioned Namjoon.

Jimin nods. "I agree Prince Namjoon..."

"You can call me hyung, Jimin. No need to act so royal with me. We both are omega. We will be great friends..." Namjoon notes with his dimple smile.

Jimin was taken aback for a moment when Namjoon acted so friendly despite his status as the crown prince. To be frank, when he first saw Namjoon he always thought the crown prince will be hard to approach. Jimin had set his mind that Namjoon will be an arrogant prince but he was proven wrong.

"Hy - hyung..." he stutters.

Namjoon let out a soft chuckle seeing how the omega being awkward around him. He ruffles the blonde hair fondly, the same he always did to his brother Jungkook. Jimin startled at the gestures, as his heart hammering to see how gorgeous the omega smiling at him. The warm feeling he had never taste with his brother Seokjin, engulfing his heart.

"Don't you think you will be a burden to Prince Namjoon?"

Both Namjoon and Jimin cocked their head to the interruption and instantly had the same sullen expression when they saw Seokjin standing not far from the two - with a smug face.

"What do you mean, Jin?" asked Jimin, the rage was evidently shown in his voice. His eyes boring into Seokjin with hatred.

Seokjin scoffs at Jimin's rudeness but it was nothing new to him. The two siblings were never in good terms, more likely a cat-dog relationship - hates and just hates. He slowly walked towards the two omegas.

"You never touch the sword or the bow. What makes you think that you're capable to hunt? With your good looks? Do you think the boar will submit itself to you because of that? That will be ridiculous, " sneered Seokjin, sarcasm lies in his tone as he ridicules his omega brother.

Jimin grits his teeth in anger at the derision, feeling humiliated that Seokjin was purposely belittling him in front of Namjoon. His eyes became glassy as he tried to hold his wrath, didn't want to lose his composure in public. If they were in Sharon, Jimin will definitely retaliate back ruthlessly.

"Don't you think such callous comment is really inappropriate Prince Seokjin?" interrupts Namjoon as he can see how Jimin's mood had turned to morose.

Seokjin turned his head towards the other omega, narrowed down his eyes with discontent at the intermission.

"Prince Namjoon, you might think all omega possessed the same quality as yours. But sorry to disappoint you that my brother Prince Jimin was never been raised like an alpha. He was the typical omega that will serve his alpha only..."

Namjoon clenched his fist tightly in anger, couldn't hide his emotion listening to the selfish remarks of Seokjin. Since in the beginning he never likes Seokjin for being so self-centered alpha.

Namjoon glanced at Jimin that almost crying in humiliation at his brother mockery statement. His heart squeezed at the view, enraged that Jimin had to face such stigma from his own brother. He wonders how the young omega going through his life all this while with such ignorant and shoddy alpha.

"Sad to hear such comment coming from the crown prince of Sharon. If it is being uttered by the Erauris, they shall pay with their own head!"

Everyone turned their head at the austere voice being the assertion of the authority he tried to manifest. Namjoon smile when he saw his little brother Jungkook meanwhile Jimin cocked his head to the side to hide his tears.

"Ah, Prince Jungkook to the rescue, " mocked Seokjin. He feels amused that the young alpha had joined the worthless argument defending the omega's.

Jungkook squinted his eyes at Sharon's prince before he averted his eyes to Jimin. Jungkook's eyes lock into Jimin's with an intensity that suggests a powerful inner rage. Jimin's eyelashes were wet with tears and his face was flush with red.

"If you had nothing nice to say, it is better for you to just shut your mouth, " Jungkook voice turns to blade - sharp. He didn't have to act so royal or trying to play with words while talking to such an arrogant prince.

Namjoon and Jimin were taken aback at the audacity, as both stand awkwardly between Seokjin and Jimin. Despite he hates how Seokjin had behaved towards Jimin, Namjoon still uncomfortable if Jungkook ruthlessly treats their guest. They shouldn't agitate the prince in order to avoid any confrontation.

Seokjin let loose an irritated smile. "Forgive my rudeness, Your Highness. I forgot that I'm at Erauri. Here omega has been highly praised, " he announces with an air of defiance.

Jungkook was about to take reprisal against Sharon's prince before Namjoon grabbed his arms and shook his head - asking his brother to stop in silence. Jungkook growls in disappointment as his body slumps in defeat, letting the heated argument dimmed down.

Seokjin chuckles at the cower act. "I guess I shall prepare myself for the hunt mission..." he didn't even wait for Namjoon or the other two to properly response as he walked away from the three.

Jungkook gritted his teeth. "That uncanny bastard!" he cursed.

"Jungkook..." Namjoon sighed at his brother oblivious remark. "Beware of what you say in front of the other royal. And Jimin is still here..." he continued.

Jungkook rolled his eyes at the reprimand before he turned his gaze to Jimin who had remained silent. "I apologize for my rude remarks against your brother, Prince Jimin, " says Jungkook, he plays on words deliberately.

Jimin shook his head. "It - it's okay Prince Jungkook..." he pauses for a moment, lifted his head to meet with Jungkook dark brown eyes and says with a modicum sincerity, "Thanks for the help though. I really appreciate it..."

Jungkook lips twitched into a small smile as he continues to stare at the petite and beautiful omega in front of him. Jimin looks downward in embarrassment at the meaningful gaze by the alpha. Unknown to Jungkook and Jimin, Namjoon had watched their silence encounter with a raised brow.

"Don't you need to get ready for the hunt too, Jungkook?" interfered Namjoon, cutting through the trance between Jungkook and Jimin.

Jungkook fakes a cough as his face turns to the shade of red. "Yeah, I guess so..." he bowed slightly at his brother and Jimin before scurried away hastily.

Namjoon let out a soft chortle watching his shy brother disappeared among the princes. He then looked at the omega, smiling fondly while he touched the forearm gently.

"Jungkook might be seen oblivious and immature but he has a good heart. I hope you will not feel discomfort at his words about your brother..." Namjoon notes, afraid that Jimin didn't like on how Jungkook rebuke over Seokjin just now.

Jimin shook his head wildly, denying the allegation. "No, hyung. I do understand his intention just now. And to be honest, my brother sometimes can be really a pain in the ass..." he said playfully.

Namjoon laughed lightly at the remark, feeling at ease that Jimin didn't feel hurt by Jungkook's cold treatment to Seokjin.

"Don't worry too much Jimin. During the hunt, I'll teach you the basic skill and I believe you will be able to master it in a blink, " said Namjoon confidently.

Jimin smiles at the generous gesture by the crown prince and he nods with enthusiast. "Can't wait to learn it from you hyung!"

"Jimin! No! don't go there!!" Namjoon shouted as Jimin run towards the deep forest after he released the arrow.

Namjoon tries to chase the young omega, followed by Mingyu with pounding heart. Namjoon runs so fast that he was afraid as what will be confronted by the omega alone without any guard to secure his safety.

Namjoon panted, trying to catch his breath when he saw Jimin standing statically under the big tree, facing his back. Namjoon frowned when Jimin didn't move at all as he slowly approached the male.

"Jimin? Are you okay?" he asked cautiously, his hand move forward to grab on Jimin's shoulder.

Jimin gasped at touched, slightly turned his head to meet with Namjoon's concern eyes. Namjoon took a deep breath when he saw the pale face of the omega as he lips quiver to say something. Namjoon sensed the fear in his jasmine scent before his eyes moved forwards, following Jimin's.

It was in a blink of an eye that Namjoon embraced Jimin's small body in a tight hug and protected the omega before a long scream echoed in the forest. Both omegas fall on to the ground with a loud thud - motionless.

Mingyu who had heard the horrendous scream, sprinted his long legs as fast as he can to reach the two princes. His eyes widen when he saw the two bodies on the ground - unconscious with unknown reason.

"Your - your Highness???"

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

“Conveys my message to Prince Taehyung that I want to meet him at the royal garden this midnight…”

Yoongi remained silence as he stared at the anxious crown prince. He was walking back and forth since he entered the chamber after dinner. Yoongi does understand the reason behind his restless situation.

“Your Highness, it will be too dangerous and…”

Yoongi halted when Namjoon snapped his head with angry eyes.

“I don’t care Yoongi. Just do what you're supposed to do, ” he notes while gritting his teeth.

“Your Highness…”

Namjoon harshly slumps himself on his bed, ran his fingers through his black lock – feeling so distressed. The result of the hunting had shattered his dream to have a beautiful date with his alpha. And the sad expression of his alpha at the dining table was so taunting that Namjoon feels so restless until he meets with Taehyung to console him.

“Hyung, I don’t want to repeat myself. Please, don’t make me looks like I’m a wrongdoer in your eyes!” Namjoon uttered with a weak voice. His head dangled down on the floor, refused to see the royal guard out of guilt.

He had been treating Yoongi with unfair and unkind – an attitude that he shouldn’t possess as the crown prince. Moreover, he had considered Yoongi as his own brother – the most trusted person in his life.

How could he let his guard down just because he was too obsessed with his alpha?

“Namjoon-ah…”

Namjoon’s body tensed when Yoongi kneeled in front of him and placing both of his hands over his. He can feel the coldness of Yoongi's pale hands when the skin gets in contact together. His heart sunk at the thought that he had done something terrible to the beta.

“You need to calm down before you decide your next move. You can’t make a good decision in this state of mind. It won’t do any good to you and to Prince Taehyung, ” says Yoongi, more on to a bit of advice.

Namjoon clasped his hand together with Yoongi and inhaled the minty scent emits by the male. He feels a little bit calmer and he fixated his eyes on Yoongi.

“I’m sorry for my actions before, hyung. I shouldn’t say that to you but –“

“Namjoon-ah…” Yoongi cuts Namjoon's speech and looks at the dishelved prince. His heart was aching to see his brother in such a state. “No need to apologize. You’d done nothing wrong to me. It’s my duty to protect you and to carry your order as the royal guard…” he continues to say.

Namjoon weakly chuckles as he shook his head in disagreement. “I’ve been so rude to you when you were just trying to help me. For that, I need to ask for your forgiveness, ” he explained guiltily.

Yoongi took a deep breath before he slowly released it. “Okay enough of this childish bickering. And let us focus on the most important thing – you and Prince Taehyung…”

Namjoon lips quivered, agonizing his emotion while his mind thinking about his lover. It’s so painful to even think that they couldn’t be together. He’s started to have this negative feeling since his father had announced Prince Jaehwan as the winner today. And Namjoon can read the jovial tone of his father when he pronounced Jaehwan's name. Namjoon disliked his father's expression at all.

“I’ll go and deliver your message to the prince but you need to remain calm throughout the process. We didn’t want any of the princes or the King himself to be suspicious. Everyone was eyeing every single move you'll take. We need to be extra careful at this moment, ” advice Yoongi.

Namjoon nods his head as his grip tighten. He had fully trusted Yoongi to execute his order and he had put his hope on the royal guard to help him. He only can count on Yoongi right now.

Yoongi immediately shot up and bowed at Namjoon before he left the prince's chamber. He can see Namjoon's distress expression and he dislikes it so much that he decided to help Namjoon this time.

Of course, he’d opposed to Namjoon secret relationship with the Prince of Kaen. It was a sin for the prince to do that when the six princes were in the midst of competing with each other in the tournament. It’s unfair to the rest of the participants if Namjoon had personally chosen Taehyung as his rightful alpha.

But at the same time, Yoongi couldn’t deny that a bond between alpha and omega were complicated. It comes naturally. They can sense their mate through their scent alone and will automatically be bonded when they had found each other.

This is a similar case to Namjoon and Taehyung. Namjoon's heat had been triggered by Taehyung previously. It’s horrendous to see how a simple encounter had let to a deadly experience. Yoongi can foresee the consequences if Namjoon and Taehyung failed to mate with each other.

The grave effect lies on Namjoon solely as an omega. If his inner omega refused to accept other alpha's claim, Namjoon’s life is in danger. He’ll die if he can’t be together with Taehyung. Literally, the linkage of Namjoon and Taehyung's emotion was sturdy and inseparable. The last thing remains is the mating process to seal the bonds of their soul.

It is not a coincidence for the two to meet again for the second time. The fate had decided that they are indeed a mate. This tournament was a stepping stone for the two to rekindle their feeling. That’s why Namjoon had been acting so aggressive this lately. His composure as calm and subtle prince had been affected by Taehyung.

Yoongi walked through the hallway with a mixture of emotion. He didn’t know whether his decision was right or not but as for now, he needs to help Namjoon.

Approaching the chamber resided by the Kaen's prince, Yoongi's nostril flared after been attack with a strong smell of distress. It's too strong that it's stung his nose bud and Yoongi automatically sneezed out loud.

“What the –“ Yoongi's feet halted when he saw a young male kneeling in front of Taehyung's chamber – head hung low the floor as if he was been punished. Was he?

“I wonder what’s the smell that’s making my nose become so numb –“ Yoongi says cynically as he approached the male. “Well, it's your odd chili pepper scent then,” he continues to mock the male.

Hoseok's head snapped to the side as he heard the familiar voice. He instantly rolled his eyes when he saw the arrogant royal guard. He then back to his position, continue to mop in front of his prince's chamber.

Yoongi sneered at the cold response, crossing his arms to his chest while he gawked at the royal guard. “What are you doing here, Jung Hoseok? Are you being punished for something trivial? You look like a five years old kid who’d been stealing candy from the jar!” Yoongi notes and lets out a soft chuckle at his own words.

Hoseok continues to ignore the derision remarks, clenching his fist tightly until his knuckles turn to white. He didn’t have the time to argue with Yoongi. He needs to undergo the punishment imposed by Taehyung quietly. If not the prince will give him a harsher punishment.

After the King had announced Prince Jaehwan as the winner, a morose mood of deep melancholy had descended upon Prince Taehyung. He was overly frustrated with the result because he was confident that the wild boar he had hunted down was bigger than Jaehwan's prey.

None of the princes had seen with their own eyes of each others pursuit that day,  so they can’t protest over the result. Moreover, they won’t dare to go against the King of Erauri. His verdict is nothing but true. They had to put their trust and belief towards the King.

And Hoseok needs to pay for the consequences. He was blamed for the failure to help Taehyung during the hunting. And Hoseok unwillingly received the punishment, kneeling in front of the chamber for a couple of hours already. His lower region had felt so numb, as such, he didn’t have the heart to entertain Yoongi right now.

Yoongi rolled his eyes in annoyance at the lack of response by Hoseok. He then walked closer and kick on Hoseok's thigh lightly. But the guard didn’t budge at all.

“What are you doing, Hoseok?” He asked in a serious tone. No sarcasm lies in his voice. He was a little bit concerned actually. He can see how the guard was trembling while kneeling. He must have been in the same position for quite long.

Hoseok refused to answer and keeps in silence. He can hear the guard groaned at him.

“Well, not that I’m being concerned about you –“

Hoseok clicked his tongue at the speech, giving Yoongi his sharp glanced. Yoongi chuckles at his response, feeling funny that the beta finally shows a little bit reaction to him.

“Then why are you here?” Hoseok asked, voice turn to a sharp blade.

Yoongi smirks. “I bring an important message to your prince…” he answered truthfully.

Hoseok whinges his head to look at Yoongi with a frown. “What message? From who?”

“From the Crown Prince of Erauri!”

Namjoon runs in a small step through the stairs as he feels anxious to go to the royal garden. The moon had shone so brightly tonight and it’s the time for him to meet with Taehyung. He almost slipped his feet on the few last steps but managed to grab the metal rail on time. He breathes in relieved and cursed his careless act.

He prayed that the prince will be there. He hoped that Yoongi managed to deliver the message. He keeps praying on each step and when he pushed the wooden door, he was panting heavily.

His eyes quivered around the garden. He slowly walked through the flowers, inhaling the sweet scent of roses and lavender. It has a calming effect over his racing heart.

Namjoon holds his breath when he saw Taehyung's tall figure standing under the gazebo, back facing him. Despite not seeing his face, Namjoon can sense the tension from his scent. His body looks stiff and Namjoon clenched his fist into a tight ball.

“Al – alpha…” his voice was croaked as he tries to not to cry in front of the prince. He had been crying for hours, moping in his chambers the whole day.

Taehyung flinched before he turned his body to face with Namjoon. His heart swells when he saw the omega, how his eyes glistening with tears. Taehyung moves forward and embraced the omega.

Namjoon buried his face on the crook of the alpha's neck, inhaling his rosemary scent deeply. He can feel how Taehyung's arm wrapped around his waist tightly. “Alpha…” he breathily whispered.

“Namjoon-ah… my Namjoon. My omega…” Taehyung chanted right to Namjoon's ears with his deep and low tones – causing shivers to Namjoon's body.

And Namjoon broke into another fit of tears, crying his heart while hugging his alpha. Taehyung was startled at first before he moved one of his hand up and down on the omega's back to cajoling him. He lets Namjoon spill his sorrow as much as he wants.

“I’m – I’m going to die if – if we can’t be together…” mumbled Namjoon sadly.

Taehyung’s heart ached after hearing those words. “Shhh, it’s okay – it’s going to be okay… don’t worry…” he coaxed the prince.

Namjoon pushed Taehyung's chest and look at him through his wet eyelashes. He let Taehyung cupped his face and wiped his tears with his thumbs.

“You – you don’t know my father, Taehyung. If – if you didn’t win this tournament –“ Namjoon bites his lips, feeling scared to utter what’s in his mind right now. The possibility was harrowing and he didn’t ready to face such a harsh fact. “He won’t accept you as my alpha unless you win…” he continues shakily.

Taehyung sighed, caressed Namjoon's cheeks fondly. He planted a chaste kiss on the side of his cheek, in the urge to make the tears to disappear. His heart was in pain to see the beautiful orbs had shed the tears because of him.

“Don’t you trust me, Namjoon?” Taehyung asked.

Namjoon was taken aback at the sudden question, looking at his alpha incredulously. “I trust you with my life, Taehyung.”

Taehyung lips moved upwards, curving a satisfying smile at the answer. He strokes Namjoon's long strand to the side. “Then rest assured, I’ll win this for you. I’ll make you my omega with pride, in front of everyone in Erauri – in front of your father, The King of Erauri.”

Namjoon’s eyes fixed on Taehyung’s solemn face showing his determination and high spirit. Namjoon was hesitant a little bit. Not that he didn’t feel confident at Taehyung but he couldn’t help himself from feeling worried. The tournament was not as easy as everyone had thought.

And Namjoon himself didn’t know what’s his father's plan in choosing the alpha for him. But it’s obvious through his eyes that his father had taken interest of Prince Jaehwan from the Rosea Kingdom. And it makes his heart anxious. He was afraid that his father will intrude with the selection and discretely helps the talented prince.

“Namjoon?”

Namjoon startled when Taehyung shakes his shoulder, cutting through his reverie. He meets with Taehyung's worried gaze before he flashed a weak smile.

“What’s your strategy to win this, Prince Taehyung?” Namjoon quickly asked. Couldn’t hide his apprehension of what’s coming.

Taehyung falters for a moment, thinking minutely before he answered. “Well, my plan is to win every match in this tournament, ” he says while he grinned sheepishly.

Namjoon frowned at the answer, looking at Taehyung – a little bit annoyed. He smacked on Taehyung's forearm for his childish demeanor and the handsome alpha had laughed too loud for Namjoon's liking.

Namjoon pushed Taehyung on his chest and took a step backward while he puffing his cheeks. His face had turned to sullen, now sulking for Taehyung’s playful act.

Taehyung tone down his laughter, looking at the pouting omega with his fond eyes – staring lovingly while he smiles handsomely. “Are you angry at me, my omega?” he asked with his sultry voice.

Namjoon crossed his arms to the chest, gawking at Taehyung. “This is a serious matter, Prince Taehyung! I don’t like it when you took this lightly.” He notes angrily.

Taehyung takes a deep breath. “I’m trying to lift up the sour mood. I don’t like to see the frown on your forehead.”

“Do you think it’s the right time for us to joke around?” alleged Namjoon. Still feels bitter.

Taehyung shook his head. “Namjoon…”

“Are you going to laugh when Prince Jaehwan claim me as his omega then?” gushes Namjoon venomously.

Taehyung big eyes become widen at the words. He growled in anger at the thought Jaehwan lustfully scented Namjoon and had his bite mark over Namjoon's tanned skin.

Namjoon flinched when he heard the growling and his heart was hammering when he saw how Taehyung's face turn into darken expression and how he grits his teeth. “Al-alpha…” Namjoon stuttering as Taehyung's rosemary scent becomes prominent. His legs turn to jelly and his knees buckled when it’s shaking so hard.

Taehyung had his hands over Namjoon's shoulder when the omega’s prince almost fall to the ground. He can see Namjoon's tall and slim body shivering and his eyes glazed with tears.

“My apology, Namjoon. I – I didn’t have any intention to – “ Taehyung was shocked when Namjoon lurched forwards and hugs him tightly. Namjoon's breath feels so warm over his neck.

“Alpha – alpha… hold me – hold me tight please…” Namjoon said, stammering in his speech. He hooked his long arms around Taehyung's neck.

Taehyung's nostril flared when the scent of dianthus lingered around them. He can feel the worry, the agony and the fear in the scent and it makes his heart to throb. A remorse feeling invaded his mind when he remembered that he had teased Namjoon before. The omega obviously sicklies worried about their relationship but he still had the gut to tease the omega.

Taehyung kissed on the side of Namjoon's head a few times until his omega stops shaking in his embrace. He let Namjoon sniffs on his scent gland since it will calm Namjoon most of the time.

“Namjoon, you’re my heart's desire. I yearned for you so much. You know how much I love you and will do anything for you, right?” whispered Taehyung.

Namjoon nods his head weakly, still didn’t want to let go of his hand over Taehyung, buried his face deeper to the crook of his neck. “You – you’re the one I've always wished for, Taehyung. You’re my alpha and no one can take that place…” he mumbled.

Taehyung placed another kiss on Namjoon's head. “You have my words Namjoon. I'll win this for you.”

Namjoon hummed. “I’ll be waiting for the day when you takes my hand in front of my father and my people…”

Taehyung lips twitched into a small smile and he pushed Namjoon's body a little bit. He can see the soft pink hue on Namjoon's cheek. His plump lips slightly parted likes an invitation for him to kiss the omega.

Taehyung's heart fluttered at the beautiful view, couldn’t resist himself from softly pecked on the succulent fleshy meat. “Mine. Only mine!” he whispered when their lips barely touched.

Namjoon smiles as he can feel the warm breath of Taehyung over his lips. “Yours. Only yours!” he replied contently and pressed his lips once again onto Taehyung's.

“What is our role exactly?”

Yoongi cocked his head to the side. “What do you mean?”

Hoseok sneered. “You didn’t sound really brilliant right now, huh?” he snarled.

Yoongi rolled his eyes at the remarks but didn’t retaliate back. His eyes back to watch over Namjoon and Taehyung, locking on each other’s arm under the bright full moon.

“What are we doing here being a spectator of this romance?” asked Hoseok with a bitter tone, eyes fixated on his prince and Namjoon – still kissing without the care of the world.

Yoongi gives a smothered laugh at Hoseok's odd question. “You’re green with envy, Jung Hoseok.” He said teasingly.

Hoseok coughed at the accusation. “Wh-what?” another cough. “No – I’m not!” cough again. “Why should I?” coughed.

Yoongi chuckles at the response. He glanced at Hoseok and can see how his face turns to red. As red as the chili pepper – identical to his scent. “Adorable!” he mumbled to himself but not too loud until Hoseok can hear him.

Chapter Text

Namjoon stares at the beautiful sun that shone so bright. The wind was so soft and blew smoothly swept his hair - making it sway gently. He can smell the fragrance of the flowers around the field, mixing up together and give his the peace and tranquil feeling to be in that place. Everything was so beautiful and Namjoon was fascinated for the hundredth times with the stunning view.

Hills of Erauri always be his favorite place since he was young. This is the place where he will ride his gorgeous white horse, spending his free time admiring the scenery. The horse, June Bug, was named after its mother delivered him in the middle of June. June Bug has being Namjoon's companion since he was ten. The male horse also accompanied him in the war, a strong and fast horse that runs like a wind breeze.

Namjoon inhaled the fresh breeze of the field, feeling calm while his eyes adorned the scenery into his mind. He loves being here. A place where he had been dreaming to come with his future mate. A place where he wants to spend the priceless time with his mate.

"This is beautiful."

Namjoon startled a little bit hearing the voice. He glanced at the silhouette beside him and his lips turn downward. His heart feels bitter at the sudden realization that the person he wished to be with him right now is not Taehyung.

"I love this place, " speaks Jaehwan, giving a small smile towards the omega prince.

Namjoon flashed a weak smile to show his gratitude at the praise before he cocked his head back to the scene in front of him.

"You looks apathetic to be here with me, Prince Namjoon, " mumbled Jaehwan as he notices the sullen face of the omega since they arrived at the hill one hour ago.

Namjoon is perplexed at the sudden comment, glancing at Prince Jaehwan on his side for a few seconds before his eyes flicker back to the front. He feels wicked for behaving toward his honorable guest in such a manner. He shouldn't let his emotion to outweigh his conscience.

"I seek your forgiveness for my rude behavior Prince Jaehwan. I'm a little bit distracted with something and I let it caught up with my emotion today, " states Namjoon with guilt.

Jaehwan lips curled into a smile at the explanation. He didn't expect for Namjoon to react like that when he pointed out Namjoon's morose mood. He just wants to create a casual environment for both of them to start a good conversation. However, he admires Namjoon's good mannerism.

"Nothing to be worried about, Prince Namjoon. I'm sorry if I sounded too disrespectful to you..." reply Jaehwan politely.

Namjoon gives the alpha prince a soft smile at his kindness and tolerance. He feels at ease for the moment and trying to compose himself in order to be more attentive towards Jaehwan on their date. In fact, Jaehwan had the right to be treated fairly after he had won the hunt. Namjoon cannot disavow his privilege to relish his reward.

"I like to ride my horse here when I had the free time," told Namjoon, attempting for a leisure chat with Jaehwan.

Jaehwan brows arched at the sudden mention but he smiles fondly at the omega prince - appreciating that Namjoon was attempting to have a conversation with him.

"It's a nice place to do so and your horse is really remarkable" he answered.

"Ah, I forgot to introduce you to my friend here, " said Namjoon cheerfully as he strokes on June Bug neck softly. "This is June Bug!"

Jaehwan furrowed at the introduction, looking at Namjoon and his horse in turn. "June Bug? That - that's an extraordinary name for a horse, " he commented.

Namjoon chuckles at the remarks. "I won't deny that. Actually, he was born on June and I decided to name him June. But then he starts to bugging me everywhere I go, so I gave him another nickname. I think he really likes when I called him June Bug, " tells Namjoon.

June Bug let out a soft nicker sound when he heard the pet name and leaned forward when Namjoon continues to massage his neck. Namjoon giggles at the welcoming sound and gesture. He continues to rubs on June Bug long hair and gives a soft kiss on his face. June Bug rumbling in comfort, a sign that he loves the touch.

Jaehwan smiles fondly at Namjoon and admires his relationship with his horse. He can feel the strong bond between the two.

"This place is very suitable for a picnic. Me and my father always come here for the horse riding and afterward we will have a small picnic downhill..." continue Namjoon.

"Picnic?"

Namjoon chuckles softly and nods as confirmation. "That's why I had asked the servant to prepare a small basket for us -" said Namjoon as he gestured at Yoongi to bring the basket full with foods.

Jaehwan was surprised at the sudden turn of event, tilted his head to see Yoongi approaching them with a basket on his hand. He watched how the royal guard laid down a small blanket on the grass and settle the basket in the middle.

Namjoon mouthed a small thank you to Yoongi before Yoongi left the two - guarded the two royals from afar; but not too far from his eyesight.

Namjoon beckon over Jaehwan to have a sit with him and Jaehwan reluctantly accepted the offer. Which he makes a few awkward movements because he never sits on the ground in his entire life. As a royal, they were been thought to have a proper meal at the dining table, using the gold cutlery - learning the table mannerism since they were young.

Namjoon smiles to see how odd Jaehwan been sitting but he said nothing to the alpha prince. Not every royal had the same upbringing. Namjoon took out the food inside the basket one by one. A baguette, apples and grapes, roasted chicken and a bottle of wine with two copper glass.

"This is extravagant, Prince Namjoon," notes Jaehwan in admiration to see all the food prepared for just two of them.

Namjoon let out sweet laughter at the comment. "Being a royal there won't be too modest for us, right?"

Jaehwan arched his brows. "What do you mean by that?"

"Well, when I asked for a portion of simple picnic food, this is what the scullion had prepared for me. And I do wonder what will they give to me if I ever asked for something fancy, " jokes Namjoon.

Jaehwan laughed heartily. "Maybe a table of a feast?"

Namjoon burst into a peal of loud laughter at the joke and Jaehwan gawks at him with awe seeing how beautiful the omega when he titters freely like that. Namjoon's face is glowing as his eyes turn into a crescent moon shape. His cheek dented into deep crates on both sides while his face was flushed with a pink tinge.

"You're beautiful, Prince Namjoon."

Namjoon was taken aback at the sudden compliment. He cocked his head to the side, trying to hide his shy face from the alpha. His face feels warm and his heart rate escalated rapidly as Jaehwan keeps on staring at him.

"I'm glad that I won the tournament and get myself alone with you today. I've been looking forward to being with you after the ball..." admits Jaehwan effortlessly.

Namjoon couldn't hide his reddened face at the bold declaration. He tries to cover his face with the copper glass, sipping the red wine slowly. But he knows it's a futile effort since Jaehwan let out a soft chuckle at his silly stunt.

"May I ask you something, Your Highness?"

Namjoon raises one of his brows and looks at Jaehwan questionably. He didn't say anything, just nods his head as a sign that Jaehwan is given the permission to ask him anything.

Jaehwan smiles with solace before he speaks. "I've been wondering since the day I came to Erauri. Do you have someone in your mind? I mean among six of us, anyone had caught your eyes?"

Namjoon almost choked the apple, coughing out the chunk before he quickly grabbed the water and chugged carelessly. "Wh - what?" he stutters.

Jaehwan didn't expect the reaction will be so massive but he can guess that Namjoon has his own favorite among the six princes. Jaehwan feels his heart cracked a little bit, realizing that Namjoon didn't like him as much as he likes the crown prince.

"I guess you have one then, " he said with an accusatory tone and sounded defeated too.

Namjoon chews his lips, feeling dreadful that Jaehwan managed to read his expression clearly. He didn't know how to answer neither he wanted to lie to the prince. He was torn in between.

"Can I ask you something again?" ask Jaehwan further after Namjoon being silence.

"What is it?"

Jaehwan takes a deep breath. "Even if you have your favorite, can you please consider about me too?" plead Jaehwan in anguish.

He might sound really hopeless right now, but he wants to appeal better for Namjoon. He wanted the crown prince not to dismiss his presence just because he had chosen someone else. Jaehwan didn't want to concede a defeat before he put a good fight. Namjoon is worth to be fighting for and Jaehwan will do anything to win the crown prince.

Namjoon just blinking his eyes as he gapes at Jaehwan. He didn't know that Jaehwan could be this bold in his action. He had shown his valiant effort in winning the tournament. Namjoon can't deny the charisma of the prince.

"Prince Jaehwan, as the crown prince of Erauri I ought to a fair play in this race. Even if I had someone in my mind, the winner of this tournament will be the alpha for me. I will acknowledge the winner as my alpha, regardless who, " said Namjoon solemnly.

Despite he loves Taehyung and wanted the alpha to win the tournament so bad, Namjoon couldn't put aside his moral value as the crown prince of Erauri. He didn't want any foreplay and Taehyung to win this with a dirty scheme. Even he is worried about the outcome, Namjoon knows at the end, the winner of the tournament shall be his alpha.

Jaehwan smiles at the verification as he falling deeply over Namjoon's grace attitude. He might be getting the help from the King, but still, he wants to gain a victory in the tournament with his own endeavor.

Namjoon and Jaehwan enjoyed the sun until it's set down - leaving the sky painted with orange color. Both were amazed at the beautiful view as the wind breeze softly. Jaehwan cocked his head to the side, stunned to see how the sky color shone into Namjoon's face.

His honey-tanned skin glimmer under the ray of sunshine. As Namjoon was mesmerized with the beautiful sunset, his dimple becomes outstanding and Jaehwan's heart thumps inside his ribcage. Jaehwan breathed deeply before he bends down his body a little bit and slowly he pressed his lips on Namjoon's cheek.

Namjoon shrieked at the sudden kiss, staggered on his feet and almost lost his balance before Jaehwan managed to grab on his shoulder. Namjoon's face turns into red, blending with the color of the sunset. He looks really flustered over Jaehwan's impudence to kiss him.

Namjoon swatted Jaehwan's grip on his shoulder harshly. "Wha - what're you doing?" he asked, voice rising a little bit.

Jaehwan was surprised at the response, now understand that he had crossed the boundary. "Dear Lord! Your Highness, I seek your forgiveness for my insolent act. I didn't mean to -" he was panicking and marched forward to approach the omega.

Namjoon raises his hand to ask Jaehwan to stop from moving onto him. "Don't - don't you dare to come any closer!"

Namjoon grits his teeth in fumed, fisted his hand into a tight ball as he tries to hold his anger from erupting. As much as he wanted to behead the alpha's head for his defiant act, Prince Jaehwan is still Erauri's royal guest. Due to the diplomatic alliance between Rosea and Erauri, Namjoon needs to calm down. He inhaled a deep breath and exhaled in a big huff.

Namjoon peeked over Yoongi through Jaehwan's shoulder. He can see how Yoongi had drawn his sword from afar, ready to lurch forward before Namjoon shook his head slowly - gesticulate at the guard to not do anything at the moment.

Yoongi scowled at the command, slowly put down his sword but never let it go - in case he needs to use it later. Namjoon sighed in relief before he darted back his attention to Jaehwan.

"I'll forgive you, Prince Jaehwan. If this is to happen again in the future, I'll show no mercy even you're our honorable guest, " states Namjoon in a gruff voice. His eyes drilling into Jaehwan's to indicate his seriousness on every word he uttered.

Jaehwan quivered at the threat as his stance in the tournament is in peril. This is the first time he ever saw such expression from the crown prince. Jaehwan won't deny that Namjoon looks really intimidating despite he's an omega.

"Much obliged, Your Highness. I appreciate your kindness and I assure you that such behavior of mine shall not occur again, " Jaehwan said as he stoops slightly.

Namjoon let out a low guttural scoff at the statement. He didn't have the heart to act nicely towards Jaehwan right now. Namjoon waves his hand to Yoongi, beckon over the royal guard to come.

"Your Highness, " greets Yoongi.

"Let's go back to the palace," declare Namjoon before he averted his eyes to Jaehwan. "And I hope you didn't mind that I didn't escort you back to the palace, Prince Jaehwan, " he said solemnly.

Jaehwan nibbles his lower lips and nods weakly. "I do understand, Your Highness."

Namjoon smirked. "Let's go!" Namjoon didn't wait for Yoongi to answer nor Jaehwan to bid him goodbye. Namjoon immediately walked away and hopped on June Bug. Namjoon taps his foot on the side of the horse, leaving Jaehwan to appall at his abrupt departure.

"He's going to be eighteen in a few days..."

"Do you think he's ready to know the truth?"

"He shall be ready, my queen. It's his root and his lineage. He deserves to know what happen to his parent and the lost kingdom."

The Queen looks at her husband with a mixture of emotion. She didn't know whether it is the right decision at the moment, but the King might have considered in all aspect before he came into his final verdict.

"He's still young, " the queen sigh in worry.

The King glanced at his queen and notice the sad expression on her beautiful face. He approached his wife and sits beside her on the bed. He took her hand and lightly squeezed it.

"He's a strong boy. We raise his well and we'd thought everything to him. He's the real heir of Izoba. We have to let him decide his path of life. I'm sure he won't let us down..."

The Queen flashed a weak smile. "I'm afraid he'll hate us..."

The King fretted. "Hate? That's a strong word, my queen. What makes you said so?"

She jiggles her head. "What if - what if he thinks that we are the reason for his parent's death?" she asked in a shaking voice. Feeling petrified in the future after they reveal the secret to their youngest son.

The King shuddered at the possibility. "That's why we need to tell him the truth before someone took advantage of his innocent!"

The Queen sigh again. "I wonder how he will react about this. The fact that his parent died because we didn't give them the help they needed. The fact that we refuse to help them in the war. He will hate us, right?"

The King inhaled a deep and heavy breath. "Jungkook will understand if we tell him everything."

"I hope so..." she said in a hopeful tone. "Do you think we should tell Namjoon about this too?" she asked then.

The King is in silent for a moment before he nods his head. "Indeed. Namjoon deserves to know. He is the right person to be with Jungkook when we spill the truth. Namjoon can calm him down."

The Queen smiles at the words. Feeling at ease to know how strong the bond between Namjoon and Jungkook. Jungkook always considered Namjoon as his big brother, his paragon where he can lean on him whenever he needs some comfort.

It's a vice versa for Namjoon too. Namjoon is the one that been pampering the young alpha - more than the King and Queen themselves. Namjoon really loves Jungkook and being protective towards his little brother. They are each other pillars.

"Jungkook will understand why we did that after he listens to our explanation, " notes the King.

The Queen nods her head, agree with her husband expressions. "We will be happy together, right? Nothing's going to change, right?" she asked worriedly.

The King wrapped his long arm over his queen shoulder. "Like a fairy tale, we shall live happily ever after!"

Unknown to them, this is the beginning of the catastrophe in their life. How every single happiness they've been enjoying all this while will be wiped away by their nemesis.

Soon, the peaceful kingdom of Erauri shall be filled with the scream of anger and betrayal. For the King, he never thought he will be betrayed by someone he loves the most.

Chapter Text

𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝟏𝟖 - 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑲𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑪𝒂𝒏 𝑫𝒐 𝑵𝒐 𝑾𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈

"𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒃𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔. 𝑯𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑮𝒐𝒅, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔"

Namjoon didn’t know how to react at the unexpected revelation. Appalled. Astounded. Daunted. It's a mixture of emotions but has the same implication. His lips parted slightly in aw shuck, eyes were like a dagger glaring at the two most important people in Erauri. 

“How – how could you keep such a secret for decades?” He asked in astonishment and sounded a little bit rude too. But Namjoon has something more crucial to think rather than his mannerism at the moment.

“Prince Namjoon…”

Namjoon flicks his eyes towards his mother, the Queen of Erauri as her voice grimed at his impudence act. Namjoon exhaled a deep breath before he mouthed his apology towards his father as well as his mother.

“We were doing this for the sake of Prince Jungkook. We want to protect him…” the King voice out his reasoning.

Namjoon arched his brows questionably. “What does that mean?” he query.

The King glanced at his wife before he had his eyes on his beloved crown prince. A meek smile has been curved before he starts clarifying the situation.

“Long before Izoba had been under attack, I’m not in a good term with Jungkook's mother. Princess Hyeri had eloped with Prince Jaerim from Izoba  and get married without our father's consent…”

Namjoon small gasped interrupted the story as the King peered over him at his demeanor. Namjoon sheepishly smiles before his father continues.

“Your grandfather was furious and decided to disown her. He ripped off her title as the Princess of Erauri and warned everyone in the palace not to speak of her name again. This had prolonged until the death of the great King. Later, I had been commemorated as the new king of Erauri…”

Namjoon fretted in confusion. “Then you have no reason to disown Princess Hyeri anymore. You didn’t hate her, right?” said Namjoon.

The King let out a small sigh. “I had the same opinion with the former King about Prince Jaerim…” admits him remorsefully.

“Why?” Namjoon further asked. He is wondering why his father didn’t like Jungkook's father. Namjoon knows his father well enough. The King will never hate someone for an unknown reason or for anything trivial. He is a king with a big heart, The King is strict but benevolent.

“Prince Jaerim was well-known for his womanizer behavior, visiting the brothel on a regular basis – exploiting the omegas in order to fulfill his lust and desire. He is the Casanova of the south…” explained the King with so much chagrin, reminiscing Jaerim's evil deeds.  

Namjoon is surprised at the revelation, silently feels uncomfortable at the allegation. Hearing about Jungkook's father malfeasance had made his heart squeezed with agony while his mind wandering over Jungkook.

How will he react if he ever knows his father's true self? Will he be able to acknowledge it? All his life he had been told that his father is a good man and a great king. This kind of truth is vicious and hard to imagine.

“When I first heard about my sister's infidelity with the prince, I had given my advice for her to end the relationship. She looks very obedient at that time until my father had arranged her marriage with a prince from the west. She said nothing about it at first but the next morning she had eloped from Erauri and married Jaerim at Izoba…”

Namjoon holds his breath at the boldness, trying to fathom how could a young and delicate princess-like Hyeri had the gut to do such a thing.  The Queen always tell him and Jungkook the story of Princess Hyeri. How beautiful she was, how subtle and charming she was and how everyone in the palace loved her. Hyeri is like an angel. She is incapable of doing something unthinkable like that.

But this new information differs from what Namjoon had learned about the beautiful princess years ago. Namjoon couldn’t imagine the diverse personality of the said princess. It’s just doesn’t makes sense and unnatural. She’s well known for her chastity persona and everyone in Erauri loves her for her genuine attitudes. 

“My father was furious of her betrayal, denounced her for treason. She was outlawed from coming back to Erauri. It’s such a harsh decision and everyone was shocked at it. But Hyeri didn’t look back, insisting that she’s Jaerim's wife and the future queen of Izoba…” proceed the King as his voice turns to sullen and bitter, been consumed with anger and sadness about his sister's offense. 

Namjoon's heart clenched at the view, feeling the anguish that his father had carried for all these years.  “What - what happens then?” he inquired, couldn’t hide his curiousness since he knew this matter doesn’t end here. It's getting complicated on each second.

“She never came back to Erauri. We had lost the touch with her but after the death of my father, I had dispatched my men to find out about her life at Izoba. I am concerned about her well-being because I didn’t trust Jaerim can take care of her. But I was proven wrong...” tells the King.

Namjoon can see how the sad expression previously disappeared and his father’s face is beaming with joy and happiness. His dagger eyes soften slowly and all Namjoon can see is love and affection. Namjoon lips twitched into a small smile at the mood.

“Prince Jaerim truly loved Hyeri and had changed since they both got married. I’m so happy to know that Hyeri is happy with her husband and his unborn child…” the King continues to tell the story.

“The unborn child is Jungkook?” guessed Namjoon.

The King nods in confirmation. “But then...”

Namjoon smile falters when he saw the darken expression of his father once again and his heart skipped a bit knowing there’s definitely something wrong. “But what, father? Isn’t that good news? You can reconcile with the princess again after years living separately...” he said, the confusion lies in his voice.

"I was hesitant at that time, reminiscing the days when she had eloped from Erauri. I still remember how my father is furious about her ignorant act. How he died still having the resentment and in grief until his last breath…” the King stated with a shaken voice.  

Reflecting on the death of his father, the former king of Erauri, his heart been crushed like broken glass. It still lingering in his heart – the regret and the animosity towards his sister; the sole reason for his father's misery.

Despite being frustrated by Princess Hyeri’s defiant act, she's still the princess he loves wholeheartedly. The small princess who looks like a porcelain doll – who he held to his heart dearly. The same princess who had inflicted the pain and misery. The King had been waiting for his whole life for the princess to come back home, to admit her mistake and seek for forgiveness. But till his last breath, Princess Hyeri didn’t come or even attend the King's funeral.

For the sake of his father, the King had refused to meet with his sister. Not even when he received a few notes sent by the princess. The King put it aside without having a glance, letting the scrolls to lay down on the table – untouched. Which later becomes his biggest regret when he knows what has written in the letter.

It was late when he finally realized that it was a call for help. Izoba has been in a war, in the brink of losing the battle when Princess Hyeri had begged his brother to help her and Izoba. When the King deployed the army – the kingdom had been ruined by the war gravely. No one survives in the horrendous battle. Not even an innocent child.

Jaerim and Hyeri have been brutally murdered in their own chamber, where all the blood-splattered throughout the four walls. However, a loyal servant managed to save Jungkook at the moment, hiding his small body in the storage room in the kitchen. She died while protecting the young prince.

When Commander Min found the baby, his face was smeared with his parent's blood. He didn’t cry for a bit. The poor prince just lost his parent and his kingdom.  Yet, he's too young to understand the ordeal.

When the King gets to hold the tiny prince into his arm, the doe eyes had captivated his heart at instances. Jungkook is a beautiful baby. So small and so fragile that the King vows to protect the prince with every power he has in the world. Jungkook; the last memory of his beloved sister, Princess Hyeri. 

“Father…”

The King shuddered at the raspy voice of his omega son, ending his stupor of Princess Hyeri and the heartache memories of her. He looked back at Namjoon, realizing the tears that had already cascade down through his eyelashes.

“Will Jungkook forgives me for the sin, Namjoon-ah?” the King asked with obvious broken-hearted leeching out from his voice.

Namjoon swallowed hard, squeezing his father's hand as if he is trying to give the strength needed by the great man.

“Jungkook will understand, father. Even though he is still young, he is a wise prince. He has been raised by you, father. He had learned all the goods in this world. Have faith in him...” Namjoon said to his father, trying to stay on the positive side for the King.

Regardless, Namjoon is confidence that Jungkook has a big heart and will have no ill-feelings towards anyone, especially to his own family. He might be a little bit childish sometime, but Jungkook is an amazing person. He had been raised with discipline and honor by the King. He might be angry for a while, but he will never hate the King. The King has always been his paragon.

“Did you know about this, hyung?” asked Namjoon when he entered his chamber later that night. He takes a seat on his bed while his eyes on Yoongi, looking so calm and stoic.

Yoongi hummed softly. “My father had told me before...” he answered truthfully.

To say Namjoon is shocked at the disclosure is an understatement. He already has the difficulty to hear the story from his father, but Yoongi to have the knowledge about the past also a shocking fact. Namjoon huffed in frustration thinking that he is the only one been left out in this matter. Well. Add on Jungkook.

“Since when?” Namjoon further asked, the voice sounded bitter.

Yoongi peered at the crown prince with an amused smile. “Since I was ten. My father had told me the whole story. He said I really have to know about it before he sends me to be your Royal Guard...”

Namjoon creased in confusion. “Why? It doesn’t make sense, hyung...” he retorts.

Yoongi sighed while he assisted Namjoon with his night garment, preparing the prince for his bedtime. He put the satin robe to Namjoon’s lanky body and watched how the prince is pouting for taking his time to answer. Namjoon's impatience is fun to see. His pouty lips are adorable.

“It's been a real concern of the council that Jungkook will become a major threat to you one day…” Yoongi said as his eyes on Namjoon – wanting to see his reaction at the declaration.

Namjoon gasped in shock. “What?!” he shrieked impolitely. “Why did – the council – no! It's absolutely absurd, hyung. Jungkook – he won't - he's not going  to – never…” Namjoon didn’t know how to express his feeling about the statement, keeps on stuttering in his speech before he huffed in frustration for failing to be coherent of his own thought.

Yoongi feebly smiles at Namjoon's attitude, knowing how much the omega adores his little brother. Well, who doesn’t? Prince Jungkook is loveable by everyone. His personality is very charming. He never looks down to someone below him and always has good mannerism to everyone.

Still, Yoongi does understand the concern of the council. The death of Jungkook's parent is a triggering facet for the young prince to become a threat. He has no knowledge about it and everyone is fearful of his reaction once the truth comes out.

“There’s no harm for us to act a little bit prudent…” states Yoongi solemnly.

Namjoon snorted in disagreement. He shook his head before he speaks. “Jungkook will never betray us, hyung. He - he's an angel…” Namjoon said, voice shaking a little bit. Thinking of Jungkook to revolt against the King and the kingdom; it's preposterous. Jungkook will never go against his own family.

“You are allowed to believe whatsoever you desired for, Namjoon. But as the royal guard, your safety and wellbeing is my priority. Either Jungkook or someone else, I have a clear order from the King to kill anyone who will bring harm to you…” Yoongi sternly said as his eyes fixed on Namjoon.

Namjoon breathe hitched at the forbearing expression, incredulously stares at Yoongi – his friend who is also served as his royal guard. He couldn’t believe himself hearing those malicious words enunciated by Yoongi.

Yoongi, even though is well known for being a very strict royal guard but he has a soft heart to whom he cares so much. Especially to Namjoon and Jungkook. They have been together since they were still a child. They've known each other characters; good and bad. 

Despite his cold and rigid demeanor, Namjoon has been watching how attentive the said male when he talks to Jungkook. Yoongi had considered Jungkook as his own little brother. Yoongi loves Jungkook as much as he loves Namjoon.

As such, to hear the elder saying those words to Namjoon is an unexpected.  How could Yoongi effortlessly said that he will hurt Jungkook? That is ridiculous.

“Can I ask something from you, hyung?” asked Namjoon then. 

Yoongi is taken aback at the sudden request, anyhow, he nodded his head.

Namjoon wearily smiles at the royal guard, taking a deep breath before he gives his special mandate.

“Protect Prince Jungkook with your life. Even if he is trying to do something evil, just protect him…”

Yoongi lips parted, aw shuck at the decree. He looks at Namjoon with widening eyes. As he tries to say something to decline such order, Namjoon holds up his hand immediately – preventing the male from interrupting.

“He's my brother. It's my responsibility to take care of him. I have to protect him from whatsoever dangers. I had vowed to myself that Jungkook will get whatever he wants in this life and I'm willing to give him everything in this world just to make him happy…” said Namjoon, eyes glints with tears when he stares at Yoongi solemnly.

“Namjoon-ah…”

“Even if he asked the throne or my life, I’m willing to give it to him, hyung…” Namjoon firmly said without hesitation.

Yoongi is flabbergasted at the declaration.  Tongue-tied down as he is lost at words. Eyes quivering with fear when he realized that Namjoon is serious with his words. Yoongi’s heart skipped a bit, sensing the forthcoming storm that will knock on the door of the palace.

Unknown to them, someone had heard everything outside the chamber. Both hands were fisted into a tight ball, agonizing that person's feeling at the moment. He then left the wing, hastily run towards the hallway – heart’s fill with wrath and animosity.

Soon, the storm is coming. Yoongi has never thought he will witness such a horrid view with his bare eyes.

Bloods splattered on the floor. Dead bodies scattered on the ground. Arrows piercing on the wall. Fire and smoke are everywhere. Everything is in chaos.

Erauri has lost its peace.

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...𝖙𝖔 𝖇𝖊 𝖈𝖔𝖓𝖙𝖎𝖓𝖚𝖊𝖉

Chapter Text

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝟏𝟗 - 𝐓𝐨 𝐁𝐞, 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐓𝐨 𝐒𝐞𝐞𝐦

"𝐖𝐞 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐲 𝐛𝐞"

Namjoon stares at the flowers, ecstatic to watch the vibrant colors and how each flower projecting their unique smells – making the whole garden overflowing with nice fragrances. It makes him feel serene to be here.

“You’ve seems to spend a lot of time at the royal garden lately…”

Namjoon startled a little bit, cocking his head to the side to see the intruder. His lips immediately twitched into a wide smile, sunken his cheeks into a deep dimple. “Prince Jungkook…”

Jungkook smiles at his omega brother and took a seat beside him without being told so. He then averted his eyes forward where Namjoon had been lost in his thought just now. Namjoon always is fond of nature and the royal garden had been his favorite place in the palace since he’s younger. He can definitely locate his brother in the garden if he appeared nowhere in the palace.

“Admiring nature can make my heart feel at ease…” Namjoon answered truthfully, without looking at his brother. “Looking at the greenery, it will comfort your heart. The trees and the flowers give you the consolation without you ask for it…” he continued.

Jungkook hummed at the philosophical thought. “I couldn’t relate since it’s not my forte, but you do blend well with nature, hyung…” he said.

Namjoon chuckles at the compliment, glancing at his little brother for a few seconds. Namjoon’s brows pucker when he notices the morose on his handsome face. Knowingly that Jungkook is really bad at suppressing his emotion, Namjoon can sense the distress at instances. His scent of lavender is a little bit stronger than usual.

“How’s your day, Jungkook? It’s been a while since you came back from Trusan and I didn’t have the time to talk about your training…” Namjoon stated in a calm tone. He tried to make Jungkook spilled the problem naturally – didn’t want to make his brother uncomfortable to talk to him about his personal matter.

Jungkook let out a soft sigh as his eyes still peering over the pond. His eyes follow the movement of the two swans, happily swimming without any interruption.

“There’s nothing fascinating in Trusan. You know yourself how rigorous the training was. The general won’t spare you even though you’re the prince. And our father didn’t let us enjoy the privilege also.”

Namjoon nods his head in agreement with his brother’s statement. Despite being the princes of Erauri, they need to undergo harsh training with the other armies without any exception. The King had never cosseted his two princes and he didn’t want the other people to give both of them the privileged treatment too.

Everyone is equal. They have been thought to be moderate and humble. Being born as a prince is not a warrant for them to act higher than the others. This is the reason why the royal family is well-loved by the people of Erauri.

“Our father wishes us to be independent and not to squander our regal position to evade the hardship and gain victory in an easy way. It will disgrace our family and lose the respect from our subject…” said Namjoon, justifying the act of the King.

Jungkook smile. “I do understand the reason for it, hyung. Our father is the King. King will never make a mistake. Right?”

Namjoon furrowed at the amount of hostility in Jungkook’s voice at the words. He knew Jungkook is upset but he couldn’t figure out why. “Do you want to share with me what makes you jittery?”  he asked without being so discreet about his concern.

Jungkook flickered his eyes on Namjoon, staring at his brown orbs for a while. He took a long and deep breath before he starts to talk his heart out. “Have you ever felt angry at the King?”

Namjoon eyes widen at the unforeseen question, looking at his brother incredulously. He tried to find any playful expression on Jungkook’s face but couldn’t find any. Namjoon’s heart skipped a bit as he thinks the possibility of such a question been raised by Jungkook.

“Wh – what do you mean by that?” Namjoon reacts without answering to Jungkook. The conversation he had with his father two days ago flashed to his mind and Namjoon begins to get anxious.

Jungkook shrugs. “I just wonder, hyung. Our life had been determined by the King since birth. He decides everything for us, and we are opting to obey his order with no room to decline. And you as the future king of Erauri had been living with a strict rule since young. Have you – “Jungkook trailed off for a second before he resumes? “Have you ever felt angry that you’re unable to decide your own life?”

Namjoon remained in silence as he swallowed in nervousness. It’s the first time that Jungkook acted so seriously and been asking something crucial like this to him. To see how grim his face right now, Namjoon knows that Jungkook meant everything he said. For some reason, Namjoon didn’t feel comfortable at how peculiar Jungkook is behaving.

“The King can do no wrong, Jungkook. A king is the chosen man, selected by God to rule a kingdom and bring peace towards his subjects. Whatever he decides is for the benefits of everyone. We shall have faith in our King…” resolved Namjoon.

Jungkook chuckles lowly, sneaking a glance at his brother who seems taken aback at his response. “A king is a human being, hyung. He is bound to make a mistake. A king is not God!” Jungkook refutes with an intense voice.

“Jung – Jungkook…”

“Do you think we are obliged to abide by the orders indefinitely, hyung? Even if we realize that it is wrong?” Jungkook further asked. Getting bolder each time.

Namjoon is fidgeting on his position. He slightly trembling at the animosity and trying his best not to appear agitated at the bold sentiments. Jungkook is still young and he is easily drawn by his emotion. A young alpha has always been aggressive until they learn how to manage their physical and emotional strength.

“The King is the best of all human beings. He is the representative of God and he is never to be condemned for any of his actions…” Namjoon quotes back the saying by a philosopher. He had learned about the significance of a King since he was young. Jungkook had the same knowledge as he is, so Namjoon is convinced that Jungkook also familiar with the quotes.

Jungkook bites his inner cheek, pondering about Namjoon’s words. Not that he is agreed with the quote, but he believes there’s no point to argue with Namjoon about the issue. Namjoon has always been so eloquent with his words, showing his intellect effortlessly.

Jungkook couldn’t defy any of his arguments because he is not well versed like Namjoon. Because of that, Jungkook is ashamed of his inadequacy. He blames his playful nature and didn’t study hard like his brother.

“Jungkook-ah…”

Jungkook’s jerked up from his stupor as he can feel Namjoon’s hand on top of his. Namjoon pats on Jungkook’s hand, looking at him with a pure concern.

“I’m sorry hyung. I just being – ”

Namjoon quickly shakes his head. “No, it’s okay Jungkook. You have the right to think whatever you think is right for you. It doesn’t mean that you have an ill intention towards our father…” he tried to console the young prince.

Jungkook smiles half-heartedly and he flipped Namjoon’s hand onto his laps and squeezed it lightly. “Enough of this talk, hyung. Let me know about all the princes…” he said with a fake cheerful voice as he tried not to prolong the conversation.

Namjoon was taken aback at the change of topic but at the same time, his cheek had a tinged of pink when Jungkook mentioned the six alpha princes. A special face instantly invaded his conscious mind and making him smile instinctively.

Jungkook raised one of his brows in curiosity. “Well from the face of yours, I think you have someone in your mind…” he teased his brother.

Namjoon chuckles and tried to hide his abashed face with his hand. But Jungkook cooing sound doesn’t being helpful and Namjoon’s face now had turned to fully red like the roses in the royal garden.

“Tell me who is it, hyung…” urged Jungkook, driving his brother to drop the name.

Namjoon nibbles his lips as he is contending with himself whether or not to let Jungkook knows about Taehyung.

“Hyung… tell me please…” Jungkook whines when Namjoon didn’t say a word and making him more curious about the prince who had won his brother’s heart in such a short time.

Namjoon still hesitating because he didn’t know whether Jungkook will like Taehyung as much as he is. He is scared that Jungkook didn’t approve the alpha prince. What will happen if Jungkook had his own favorite instead of Taehyung?

For Namjoon, he wants Jungkook approval and validation as to whom he had chosen as his alpha. Namjoon always takes Jungkook’s opinion in whatever situation. That’s the reason why he wanted Jungkook to participate in the tournament as the judge. If Jungkook didn’t like Taehyung, Namjoon will be devastated. He didn’t know if he is able to accept such rejection.

“Don’t tell me –”

Namjoon lifts his head to meet with Jungkook’s furrowed face. “Tell – tell you what?”

Jungkook then let out a loud gasp. “Don’t tell me you like that arrogant prince, Yugyeom!” he alleged.

Namjoon’s eyes widen at the wrong guess. “Wait! No! No, I didn’t like him….” He quickly denied the allegation.

Jungkook huffed in contentment. “Thanks to Lord! I thought you like him since your last battle with him. Some love might spark in war…” he said foolishly.

Namjoon smacked Jungkook’s arm not too hard but Jungkook grimaced as he fakes the pain. Namjoon rolled his eyes at his brother’s antics.

Jungkook put his pointed finger to his chin, tapping softly as he tried to figure out the right prince. “Emm – maybe Prince Seokjin?” he guessed again.

Namjoon huffed at the name, obviously shown his dislike at the Sharon’s Prince. The handsome yet arrogant prince never failed to make Namjoon feel annoyed at his behavior.

Jungkook hummed at the sullen expression, getting his answer impliedly. “I don’t like him too, so don’t worry hyung…” he said while he grinned mischievously.

Namjoon laughed softly at the saying, amused with Jungkook’s childish remark. “First, tell me who do you like among the six...” Namjoon throws back the question to Jungkook.

Jungkook didn’t expect Namjoon to ask him about the six princes. He stares at his brother who’s been looking at him with a beautiful smile. Jungkook breathes out and leaned his body to the wooden bench cozily.

“Well if you ask me then…”

Namjoon chuckles. “Tell me your honest opinion…”

Jungkook grinned. “Prince Yugyeom is arrogant and I don’t like how he treats you at the mud fight. It is clear that I won’t let you pick him as your alpha. It’s a big NO!” gushed Jungkook, waving his finger back and forth.

Namjoon smiles and nods his head, in agreement with Jungkook about Shizia’s Prince.

“Second, Prince Seokjin. He had this terrible reputation and I didn’t know why father invited him to join the tournament. He’s a Casanova and always belittle the omega. I bet he is here not for you but for our fortune…” Jungkook continues.

Namjoon hummed. “He’s really loud about his view on omega. And I’m uncomfortable to be with him too…” he adds up.

“Then Prince Sehyoon, he’s a little bit reserved and more to self-indulgent. I can’t say a lot about him, but he seems nice to me. Prince Kihyun is too young for you and I’m not sure if he is able to help you to rule the kingdom. I can see him as an obedient alpha rather than a dominant one. You need a strong and wilful alpha to be by your side,” said Jungkook.

“I agree with you. Sehyoon is a good alpha but it’s hard for me to read his mind. And Kihyun is too young to understand the responsibility of being a King. To be honest, I thought of him likely my younger brother than a compatible suitor,” states Namjoon honestly.

Not that he dislikes Sehyoon or Kihyun. But there’s no spark between him and the two. While Sehyoon is more hesitant to say whatever in his mind, Kihyun is a little bit outspoken. Maybe he is being spoilt by his father and doesn’t take the tournament as seriously as he should. He is more playful than the other princes.

“There’s two left as a perfect alpha for you, Prince Jaehwan and Prince Taehyung…”

Namjoon holds his breath hearing those two names, specifically his lover, Prince Kim Taehyung. He tried to masquerade his excitement as he waits for Jungkook to give his opinion about the two contenders.

“Prince Jaehwan is well known for his good reputation as well as a great warrior on the battlefield. He is well-mannered and very wise too. I’ve heard the story on how he had led his fifty armies against hundreds in a war with Han-Yi. They’ve won the battle with his brilliant strategy. He is an epitome of perfection…” accolade Jungkook earnestly.

Namjoon dabbled with the stitch of his garment, as his heart thumping faster listening to how much praises Jungkook had given to Jaehwan. Namjoon is unable to deny the credibility of the prince. He acknowledged that Jaehwan had everything that a king would be. Even his father comes to like the prince more than the others. It’s evidently shown when the King was enthusiast when the prince won the hunt.

As such, Namjoon had the fear that Jaehwan might have a higher chance to win the tournament. Not that he didn’t have any confidence in his alpha, Taehyung, but Jaehwan is hard to be defeated. Taehyung needs to strive really hard and for that Namjoon is terrified. He couldn’t conjure up the possibility of he needs to marry Jaehwan at the end. Namjoon can feel how his inner omega is broken-hearted just with the mere thought.

Jungkook notices the sullen expression of his brother as he keeps on praising Jaehwan. Jungkook frowned at the unwelcomed gesture. “Hyung? Are you okay?” he asked in concern.

Namjoon flinched and realized that Jungkook is eyeing at him in confusion. He might wander off with his own thought that he didn’t discern that Jungkook is still talking to him about Jaehwan. Namjoon instantly pouted when his mind once again being attacked with the impeccable persona of Jaehwan.

“Emm, Jungkook. What – what about Prince Taehyung?” Namjoon stutters as he is hesitant to put forward his curiosity in front of Jungkook. Their eyes met but he broke it off first out of embarrassment.

Jungkook creased his brows dubiously, questioning as to why there’s a fade pink hue on his chubby cheek. He looks nervous and eyes quiver around the royal garden but him.

“Well aren’t you being obvious right now, hyung?” teased Jungkook when he can read behind the expression. It seems his brother likes Prince Taehyung. Namjoon never had any interest in alpha before the tournament. Being an omega, Namjoon is really shy and quite reserved. Even though he was raised as an alpha, he’s still had the soft side of an omega.

Therefore, to see how his brother is eager to know about Taehyung from his perspective is intriguing. His face glows beautifully and eyes were glistening like the bright stars. He is a little bit nervous, Jungkook can tell when he keeps nibbling the gold stitches on his garment. It’s a bad habit of his but also very endearing.

“Jungkookie!” he whined like a child and hide his face with his hands, abashed that Jungkook is now impishly teasing him. He can hear the short and low chuckles released by the young alpha and Namjoon’s feel his face become redder than before.

Jungkook smirked at his brother before he proceeds to give his opinion about Taehyung. “If you ask me about that alpha, honestly, he’s not a worthy opponent for Jaehwan…” he said callously.

Namjoon eyes widen in shock as he gasped, bemused of the forthright evaluation. Namjoon knows how straightforward Jungkook was, calling a spade a spade, but still, it managed to catch him off guard.

“And have you heard about the conflict in Kaen? Their royal court had been coercing the King to dethrone Taehyung numerous times, saying the prince is incompetent of being the King. That’s the reason why the elder King is still in power because he didn’t have the confidence that his son will be able to reign Kaen…” tells Jungkook.

Namjoon’s lips parted in aw shuck at the information, blinking his eyes as his eyes fixed on Jungkook with disbelief. As much as he had been spending most of his time with the alpha Prince, Namjoon never knows about the inner conflict of Kaen. Taehyung himself didn’t talk too much about his Kingdom and his father. in fact, Namjoon feels ashamed with himself that he was ignorant about Taehyung’s life at Kaen.

“How – how did you know about that?” he further asked for a clarification.

Jungkook clicked his tongue. “I’ve overheard the other princes gossiping about him the other day at the banquet. Apparently, Prince Seokjin didn’t like Taehyung for an unknown reason and he keeps schmoosing about Taehyung to other princes. As far as I know, Sharon and Kaen didn’t have a diplomatic relationship,” he explained to Namjoon.

Namjoon sighed devastatingly. “That’s – that’s not a good attitude to blather about other people. It will create unnecessary rumors in the palace, and it will tarnish his image as the prince of Kaen…” he said sullenly, feeling sad to think that people are talking about the alpha behind his back. It’s awful!

“But – “

Namjoon raised his brows at the saying.

“There’s always but, hyung. I think Prince Taehyung is a strong will person and he didn’t bother with all the talks. He knows people is talking about him, but he opts to pay no heed to it and just minding his own business. He might not possess certain qualities of Jaehwan, but he had his own class…” resume Jungkook.

“And a prince should have deterministic nature at the time of war, he must be feared by most of the people, he shouldn’t be very generous, he shouldn’t be in the extremes, and he should avoid being despised and hated. So that makes him a good prince and will be a good King too in the future…” Jungkook ended his speech with a good note.

Namjoon smiles lopsidedly at the praise. At ease that Jungkook can find at least one good side of Taehyung. Even if he can list down hundreds of his traits in a blink, but to hear someone said a nice thing about Taehyung had makes his heart swell with pride.

“Do you like him, hyung?” Jungkook asked without hesitation. He can see it clearly from his expression.

Namjoon bites his lower lips, debating with himself whether he should confess to Jungkook about his feeling for Taehyung. But he never hides anything from his little brother and Namjoon wants Jungkook to like Taehyung too.

Namjoon slowly nods his head without looking at the young prince. His head dangled down as his face turns to crimson red. “Actually, I’d met with him before the tournament…” he said frankly.

Jungkook was surprised at the revelation. “What? What do you mean, hyung? How? When?” he urged impatiently.

Namjoon chuckles in nervousness. “Well, I met him when I and Yoongi went for hunting. My omega recognized him as my fated alpha, Jungkook. When we first met, we know that we’re made for each other. He’s my mate. It triggered my heat after that, and I almost died because of that. When Madam Wu said I need an alpha for my next heat, father decided to arrange the tournament in order to find alpha for me...”

Jungkook scowled at the statement. “But then why did you agree with this tournament? You can tell father about him though. There’s no need to go through all this hassle…” he states.

Namjoon groaned in frustration. “I didn’t know at that time that – he – he likes me too. And – and I didn’t know how to tell about him to our father. I just can’t disobey him. He’s the King. But I’m happy when I know that he is going to participate in the tournament too. We met again during the ball and he confessed to me that he likes me too…”

Jungkook sighed. “And it’s too late to cancel the tournament…” he huffed.

Namjoon nods curtly. “Indeed. That’s why Taehyung needs to win this, Jungkook. I don’t know if – if I’m able to accept anyone but Taehyung as my alpha…” he whimpered.

“Then Taehyung needs to prove himself. That’s the only way that he can be with you…” Jungkook states the obvious.

Namjoon eyes welled up with tears, already knows about the harsh fact. He tried not to cry in front of Jungkook, refused to show his weak side to his brother but he just can't keep his feeling anymore. He had been stressing himself lately and he needs someone to console him.

Namjoon grabbed both of Jungkook’s hands. “Will you – will you help me Jungkook?” he asked with exasperation.

Jungkook startled at the sudden demand. “Help? Help what, hyung?” he asked confusedly.

Namjoon sniffs. “Jungkookie, you need to help me with this. Help me to help Taehyung to win…”

Jungkook mouth agape at the almost impossible request, looking at his omega brother incredulously. “Bb – but – hyung, it’s – it’s –“

Namjoon jiggles his head and squeezed Jungkook’s hand firmly. “Help me, Jungkook. I’ll die without him… I’ll die, Jungkookie…” he begged shamelessly as his tears pour down like heavy rain.

Jungkook’s heart sink to the pit of his stomach seeing his brother is pleading to him for the first time ever. His body is trembling when he cried and Jungkook held Namjoon into a tight hug for the emotional encouragement. Namjoon buried his face on the crook of his neck, continued to cry his heart out while Jungkook strokes his back up and down to appease him.

“Okay – okay I’ll help you…” he finally decided. Refused to let down his brother.

Namjoon mumbled the words thanks repeatedly on his neck and Jungkook let out a shuddering breath. He diverted his eyes to the blue sky and a small smile tugged on his lips as he thanks to the Lord for giving him what he needs the most right now.

This is going to be really interesting.

Jungkook smirked.

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...𝖙𝖔 𝖇𝖊 𝖈𝖔𝖓𝖙𝖎𝖓𝖚𝖊𝖉