[Series]Frozen Flower - Super Junior Version
Title : Frozen Flower - Super Junior Version, Second Scroll
Author : freedomthisway
Rating : PG-13 for now.
Character/Pairing : Heechul, Siwon, Sungmin / SiChul, SiMin
Word Count : 8061 words for this chapter.
Genre : Epic-sized (?) Historical AU, Angst
Summary : Kim Heechul was an Emperor. A special force called Soldiers of Flowers was formed to protect the Emperor’s safety with all costs. Choi Siwon was its Chief. A tragic and cruel plot filled with betrayal was ensued in the midst of a fight for the Throne.
Author's Note : I watched Frozen Flower without a subtitle, is enchanted by it nonetheless (and no, it’s not because Jo In Sung looked totally edible in it, mind you), and this plot bunny came to disturb my life. Hope you’ll enjoy it, and comments: are loved.
This one isn't beta-ed yet. I can't keep pestering people so I hope you'll bear with it. But if there's anyone of you who is kind enough and is willing to do it, please PM me. I'd be so grateful. Thank you in advance.
SECOND SCROLL - spilled blood on green
Siwon stares with concern at the tense back of his Emperor. Sitting there on his Royal Throne, Heechul looked unusually restless and agitated. The Emperor’s mood was contagious, and everyone present was in silence.
“HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE SUNGMIN IS ENTERING THE ROOM.” The shout of the guards outside brought the already uncomfortable atmosphere up to one level higher. The tall wooden door swung open, and a man walked in, followed by several men and women dressed in Eunuch and Maiden uniform. They were Sungmin’s servants brought along from his previous ghetto, Siwon assumed.
Siwon didn’t know what was it he expected, but as his gaze --along with everyone else’s in the room-- fell onto the man’s profile; Siwon found it was hard to look away. The infamous Prince Sungmin turned out to be a breathtakingly beautiful man.
It was expected from someone who has royal blood flowing in his vein. But still, it was rare to see such perfection of beauty that can be compared to the fairness of the Emperor himself. The way Prince Sungmin walked as if he was gliding, the way his eyes gazing upfront with a confidence, the way the corner of his mouth curved attractively as he was smiling at the realization that almost everyone in the room was captivated by him, almost everything in him made people instantly paid extra attention on him and the tense atmosphere earlier had shifted into mass admiration.
Sungmin stopped a few meters in front of the Emperor, and bowed gracefully.
“Long live for you, Your Majesty. Sungmin is here and I humbly hope Your Majesty will be willing to accept me to stay in Hwang Jeum starting from now on.” Sungmin’s voice was what you’d call pleasantly clear and calming. Not too deep, but with a unique authoritative tone that left no place for ignorance. His choice of words was flawless and his movement showed that he seemed to master all Royal Etiquette to the boot despite the fact that he spent most of his lifetime in exile.
Siwon glanced to the side and he could see Heechul’s hands were gripping each side of his chair so hard that his skin was whitened.
“You’ve grown into a fine young man, Sungmin-ah.” Heechul said with gritted teeth.
Sungmin’s smile was wide as he said, “You’re too kind, Your Majesty. It is thanks to our father that I and my mother’s life were filled with happiness everyday.”
“Ah, yes. Please take my condolences. I’m sorry I couldn’t attend your mother’s burial ceremony.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty. And don’t worry about it. I’m already grateful to you as it is.”
Heechul lifted one of his hands and one of the Eunuchs stepped forward. “I’m sure you must be tired.” Heechul said, eyes were back on Sungmin. “I’ve arranged a chamber for you and your servants and that’s where you’ll be taken. I hope you’ll have a good rest, my dear brother. The welcoming party will be held tomorrow. I know lots of our families have been dying to see you once again.”
“I do hope so, Sire. Though with the shameful record my mother is having, I sincerely doubt it.” Sungmin said, bowing down once again to show his gratitude.
That sentence brought grave silence into the room. Nobody thought Prince Sungmin would bring up this certain topic by himself this early.
Heechul said nothing for a moment, but then with a sharp tone he said, “I’m never a man who holds grudges, Sungmin-ah. Especially if it is something happened a long time ago. And I’m pretty sure the rest of the people living in Hwang Jeum share the same opinion. It’s better to just forgive and forget, don’t you think?”
Sungmin’s gaze to Heechul wasn’t less sharp, but it only lasts for a second before he flicks his eyes down. “It was inappropriate for me to say things like I did, Sire. Please forgive me.”
“I forgive you. But I hope you’ll pay more attention to words you‘ll say in the future. You are, after all, one of the honored members of Royal Family.” Heechul said and rises up to stand, followed by everyone’s bowing down deeply.
Heechul started to walk away, but only after he stepped to Siwon’s side and whispered on his ear. “I’ll be expecting you in my room right after you’re done here, Siwon-ah.”
And for a moment, Siwon was stunned by the awful amount of need he saw in Heechul’s eyes. Watching Heechul’s leaving, Siwon turned his gaze at Sungmin just in time to see the Prince watching both of them sharply. Something unrecognizable was flashing inside the Sungmin’s eyes but it was gone too fast and Siwon wondered if it was only his imagination.
After Heechul was gone, Sungmin and his servants also left the Hall right behind the Eunuch who led them to their prepared chamber.
The room began to buzz with people’s talking after those two’s leaving and Siwon took a deep breath, couldn’t help but feel that from now on, Hwang Jeum palace wouldn’t be as in peace as it had been before.
---00o00---
The long table set up in one side of Hwang Jeum Palace’s Royal Square was filled with delicious foods and beverages served on golden trays and cups. Royal Maidens were scurrying all over the place, carrying silver flasks on their hands and refilling any empty cups they can find with Kingdom’s best wine.
Behind the table, sat the Emperor on his honored seat in the middle, on each of his side were the Queen and Prince Sungmin as the main guest tonight, followed with all the Concubines, lines of Royal Princes and Princesses, other members of Royal family, and the last were the Ministers and Nobles invited beforehand to this Banquet specially held to celebrate Lee Sungmin’s returning to the Palace.
Siwon was standing in guard right behind the Emperor, some of his men were beside him, and the rest of the others were placed in their position all over the Square.
The sound of music flowing from the stage, played by Palace’s selected Artistes gathered especially for royal occasion such as this were more than entertaining. Some of the Ministers and Nobles were even so carried away with it that they joined the Royal Dancers and started to dance to their heart desire.
“How does it feel to return to all this excitement, Prince Sungmin?” The Queen asked with a gentle smile on her face. “The Hwang Jeum Palace, after all, is a place like no other can find here in Korea.”
Sungmin waited until a Royal Maiden finished refilling his cup before answering with a bright smile. “I feel honored for sure, Your Majesty Queen.” Sungmin turned his gaze off the Queen to have a better view over the Palace. “I hope you don’t mind me saying this, but I really admire you. You’ve done such a great job taking care of the Palace. To tell the truth, I’ve never seen Hwang Jeum in more beautiful condition than it is now under your care. And I can tell how much hard work you’ve put up to prepare a Banquet such grandeur as this. For that, I’m really thankful.” He lowered his head respectfully towards the Queen.
The Queen’s blush was clearly visible under hundreds of torch lights lighting up The Royal Square, and she laughed happily, obviously pleased with Sungmin’s praise.
“It’s really nice to have you around once again, Prince Sungmin.” All of a sudden, one of Emperor’s brothers, Prince Seung Goon’s voice was heard from somewhere on the right side. Siwon along with many others turned their eyes on him and Siwon frowned, because despite what he said, Prince Seung Goon’s expression was so dark and his smile was all fake.
“Now that we’re all here, I can’t help but reminiscing into the past.” Prince Seung Goon said again and somehow Siwon was sure his words held more meaning than it seemed to be. His slightly reddened face was a clear sign that he had started to get drunk. “I remember that you’re pretty good in playing Hae-Gum, aren’t you, Prince Sungmin? I hope Your Majesty won’t mind me asking you this, but won’t you give us the honor of being entertained by your play tonight.” Then he leaned forward, turned his face to the side and stared right into Sungmin’s eyes, one corner of his mouth was raised to form an ugly smirk. “Or is it you’ve forgotten all about it? You know, being casted away from the Palace for so long and all.”
Everyone close enough to hear the sudden not-so-innocent request and the hidden insult in the words following it was went into silence, but some of the Royal Family’s members were stealing curious glances at Sungmin. Now that Siwon had taken better look, there were lots of people here that seemed like they were bearing the same dislike as Prince Seung Goon had towards Sungmin, and most of them weren’t even trying to hide it from their expression.
Sungmin’s face was still looked calm, but Siwon could see that he was started to feel upset by the way his jaw was tightened. Sungmin turned to give Heechul a meaningful stare, but his Emperor said nothing, just gulping down his wine instead.
Sungmin looked away in the end, smiling, and Siwon stared at him in awe, because he knew it took a lot of inner strength for a man to do so after receiving such a big blow on his dignity.
“Well, I’ll be more than happy to entertain such Royal party as all of you are. Though I’m sure my ability is still far fetched from what our Emperor can do with a Kayagum in his hands.” Sungmin’s voice was admirably composed as he spread his gaze towards all the people sitting behind the table. “But still, I believe we should ask the opinion of those people present here who has never seen me playing before. I don’t want them to have regret, or worse, a nightmare after seeing me playing horribly.” Some of the Princesses sitting on the far side were giggling at the joke, and right at that second Sungmin turned his head back and locked his gaze onto Siwon’s. “What do you think, Chief Siwon? Would you mind if I played a song or two to make this Banquet all the merrier?”
Siwon’s heart skipped a beat, realizing that now everyone’s attention was on him. Everyone’s but Heechul’s. His Emperor was just sitting there, his back on him, but Siwon could clearly see the way Heechul gripped his golden cup even tighter with each second passing. Siwon gulped down, completely lost as to where Sungmin was going with this; asking opinion about such matter to him who was a mere Chief standing on guard. But still Siwon turned his gaze back on Sungmin and bowed deeply, saying the only thing he could say at moments like this. “It’ll be my pleasure to hear you playing, Your Royal Highness.”
Siwon looked up just in time to see Sungmin’s smile at him was filled with satisfaction and relief. And unconsciously, he found himself returning the smile.
“Then if you don’t mind, I’ll excuse myself, Your Majesty.” Sungmin said cheerfully with his gaze down in respect to Heechul. “I need to make some preparation first so that I won’t disappoint all of you.”
Heechul simply nodded at that, but Sungmin didn’t seem to pay any heed to the coldness the Emperor was showing him. Instead, he rose up with full spirit, stepped down carefully and made his way to the stage in the center of the court, instantly blending himself in the midst of Palace’s Artistes.
Not more than a few minutes later, the music being played earlier was stopped. Everyone’s eyes were on Sungmin who was already in the center of the stage, holding a Hae-Gum’s bow in one of his hand, and the wooden Hae-Gum itself in another. From the way he’s smiling secretively to himself, full with confidence, Siwon knew Prince Sungmin was about to put everyone’s present in a trance with his play.
And that was what happened, right from the very first note. It was as if the whole Square was conjured when Doraji was starting to flow out from the strings fiddled by the bow in Sungmin’s dainty fingers.
Doraji was a song that was commonly played in every party and banquet Siwon had ever attended. It told a story of beautiful white bellflowers. Siwon had never seen the beauty of the flower itself, but still he could always easily picture it on his mind whenever the Doraji was played. It was one of the reasons why he had been liking it ever since he was a little boy.
Doraji, doraji, doraji! I walk over the pass where doraji flowers bloom.
It is a path that is familiar to me.
Hey-ya, hey!
Doraji, doraji, doraji! I look at these white flowers that remind me of my mother,
in the evening with the twinkling stars.
Hey-ya-hei!
Doraji, doraji, doraji! When I wear these white flowers on my hair,
it remind me of my young days and my dreams.
Hey-ya, hey!
Sungmin was singing the song with an unbelievably clear voice even in the midst of tumultuous music played along by other Artistes all together. By the time the song ended, applauses were heard all over the Square. Most of them were coming from lines of Ministry and those members of Royal Family who had never met Sungmin before, including the Queen and the Concubines. The rest of them were simply acting ignorant, putting on sour faces. And that was when Siwon realized that those people who didn’t like Sungmin were actually hoping for him to make some mistakes during his play, hoping to have a chance to see Sungmin embarrassed himself. But Sungmin’s amazing performance had shattered their expectation.
The Emperor’s expression was the only one who hadn’t changed. Heechul was still sitting there, sipping his wine silently in the midst of people cheering.
Sungmin returned to his seat with a wide grin on his face, looked completely satisfied with himself because it was impossible for him to not realize what Siwon had about what actually took place here: a test to put him to shame.
Siwon couldn’t help but smile at that and he lifted one of his hands to cover his mouth. Sungmin seemed like he wasn’t going to have it easy -returning to live here-- but somehow Siwon was sure that he had what it took to go through all of it just fine.
But then the table turned against Sungmin, so fast that no one saw it coming.
“You’re so talented, Prince Sungmin.” Prince Seung Goon suddenly spoke from his seat.
Sungmin calmly turned to him, lowering his head a little at the praise. However, he seemed like he fully knew that there’d be something unpleasant follow.
“In fact,” Prince Seung Goon continued, slurring a little in his drunken state. “You reminded me of your mother, Min Ji.”
Lots of people chuckling at that and some of the Concubines were gasping.
Siwon blinked. It wasn’t just the way Prince Seung Goon saying the former Emperor’s First Concubine’s name distastefully that had made the frown returned onto Siwon’s forehead, but also how he mention her name without adding any honorary whatsoever after it. Siwon had heard that Sungmin’s mother had been dismantled from all of her Royal appellations and titles the second she was banned from the palace, but still, to call her name in that fashion in front of her own son was totally inappropriate.
“Ah, yes.” Another Emperor’s brother, Prince Sam Soon, was joining the one-sided conversation. “I can still remember her. She’s so beautiful, and so talented. And one smart woman, I tell you. She, for sure, knew how to use all of her ability and potential to catch our former Emperor’s attention.”
This time, the laughter coming from several direction wasn’t that distinctive anymore. As if on cue, other Princes were starting to add comments here and there that made the laughter got even louder, but the essences of tonight’s topic had gotten clearer by the second: despising Sungmin’s mother, Min Ji.
All the way through it, Sungmin’s face was completely paling. All the self-satisfaction earlier had lost from his expression, but he said nothing. Siwon knew it was because there was nothing Sungmin could do after all. It was a Banquet arranged by the Emperor, and there was nobody who had rights to control the situation aside from the Emperor himself, no matter how messed up it had been.
That was why Siwon was watching Heechul’s back impatiently, gritting his teeth, wondering why his Emperor hadn’t said a word to stop what was happening. Siwon knew that it wasn’t to his Emperor’s liking to witness such low plotting in his meal time. But more minutes had passed; still Heechul hadn’t given a respond that Siwon was expecting. His Emperor was keep enjoying his night, acting as if nothing was happened.
Frustrated, Siwon could only stand there. Occasionally his gaze was flicked towards Sungmin, couldn’t help but felt immense pity to the Prince who was now drinking and eating in silence, most probably trying to deafen his ear from all the inappropriate comments on his mother that were still being spouted by the others.
---00o00-
Siwon could feel Heechul’s gaze on him, but still he kept on staring at the ceiling of Heechul’s room in silence.
Heechul changed his position into lying on his back. “I know that expression, Siwon-ah.” He said after a while. And when Siwon kept saying nothing, he sighed. “You’re mad, I get it. But really, if you have anything to say to me, I’d rather have you saying it to my face right now.”
Siwon didn’t budge. “I know my place, my Prince. I would never dare to get mad at you.” The young Chief said the lies in a flat tone.
Heechul cursed at hearing that. He only did it in front of Siwon and Siwon knew it was a sign that his Emperor was feeling horribly agitated. “I’m not in the mood for joke, Siwon-ah. You’re testing my patience here.” Heechul’s voice was tinged with a hint of anger, and now it was Siwon’s turn to sigh.
Closing his eyes, Siwon said, “I’m truly sorry, my Prince. But I’m feeling so tired right now. Would you mind if we continue this conversation sometime tomorrow?”
“Damn if I wouldn’t.” Heechul hissed, sounded like he was being completely annoyed now. He then rose up into sitting position. “Is this because of what happened in the Banquet tonight?” Heechul asked without looking at Siwon.
Siwon stared at Heechul’s back. “... You should’ve said something to stop all of them from embarrassing your own brother like that.” Siwon said, his voice was wavering a little because though it wasn’t the first time but still this was one of very few occasions where he would question his Emperor. Something that would instantly be rewarded with a minimum five years sentence in Palace’s underground prison if it had been someone else other than Siwon who did it.
“What do you want me to say?” Heechul responded in a flash. “Like I said before, in her effort to make Sungmin the Heir, Sungmin’s mother had done so many terrible things to people in this palace that even when she’s gone, the pain and scar she had left are still lingering inside those people she hurt. And I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it too. Sometimes I can still remember how my mother cried alone in her chamber after having a fight with father, and it was all because of that woman...”
“You said to Prince Sungmin before that you are never a man who holds grudges, my Prince.” Siwon finally snapped, rose up to look at Heechul.
Heechul stared at him unbelievingly. “...Of all people, you should be the one who knows that it’s a flat out lie, Siwon-ah.” He whispered.
Those words left Siwon speechless and the room was suddenly filled with silence.
Heechul narrowed his eyes. “Tell me if I’m wrong, but if I didn’t know better, I’d say you’ve taken interest in Sungmin more than I’ve ever wanted you to have.” He said in a dangerous tone.
Siwon looked at Heechul, a bit taken aback with the Emperor’s words because what Heechul said was something that had never crossed his mind before. But now that it had been mentioned, Siwon couldn’t help but wondering.
Was he really, towards Lee Sungmin?
It was like a fire starter, that’s how it was. One second Siwon was asking himself the very question and the next, his mind was rapidly filled with everything and anything his memory had reserved about Sungmin since Siwon met him for the first time two days ago.
All of a sudden, Siwon’s heart was thumping uncontrollably with the exciting fervor this newfound feeling had brought upon him. And yet at the same time he could feel such violent fear inside him, because Heechul was still looking at him like that. The Emperor’s eyes were piercing a hole into his, waiting.
Siwon tried hard to get a grip of himself as he gave Heechul a kind of answer he knew was expected of him, “There was absolutely nothing like that, my Prince. Please forgive me for I have never meant to make you worry like this.”
Heechul’s gaze was softened. His eyelashes were fluttering in relief as he said, “You’re right. Today is so tiring for me too. Let’s stop all this talk and just get some sleep.” Heechul then laid himself back on the silken sheet, his hand laid on Siwon’s forearm was pressing slightly, silently pleading him to do the same.
Siwon was stung with guilt and something else at that tiny display of fragility Heechul was showing him. It made him complied without saying anything, but still he couldn’t stop his head from trying to wrap around the whole Sungmin thing.
Heechul dragged his head closer until it was laid on top of Siwon’s shoulder. It was a position Heechul once said making him feel the most restful and Siwon knew that despite what he said, his Emperor was surely still feeling restless and insecure.
The night had gone darker, but unlike how it used to be, the sound of Heechul’s regular breathing in his sleep couldn’t set Siwon’s heart into peace.
---00o00---
The sun almost set and all Soldiers of Flowers --aside from those who were having their turn to guard around the palace-- were staying in the dorm. The Emperor had nothing scheduled to do today and since Heechul also hadn’t asked for his presence in his room for all day long, Siwon was spending this rare spare time by training with some of his men throughout the afternoon.
He was in the middle of sharpening his sword in one corner of the dorm yard when one of the soldiers approached him.
“Chief, His Royal Highness Prince Sungmin is here to see you.”
Siwon frowned at the way his heart skipping a beat at the mention of Sungmin’s name. Sheathing his sword back into its case, Siwon then walked towards the big thick wooden gate that was the one and only entrance to Soldiers of Flowers’ dorm.
Nobody aside from the Emperor was allowed to set foot inside the dorm complex and the punishment for those infringing it was death. The extreme rule was set up not for nothing. This special troop Siwon led was consisted of people closest with the Emperor and everything they know or say could threaten the Emperor’s safety if it was found out by someone else with bad intention. All soldiers were trying their best to obey the internal rule saying that they need to watch their mouth carefully whenever they were outside the dorm. But once they were inside, they were allowed to talk more freely and that was why the dorm area was designed and built to be soundproof and impenetrable.
Two soldiers standing in guard opened the heavy door for Siwon to pass through, and as he stepped out, he could see Sungmin waiting for him across the gate, smiling at Siwon when he saw him approaching.
Siwon bowed deeply once he stood in front of the Prince. “Your Royal Highness, it was a surprise to hear you wanting to see me.”
Sungmin’s smile got wider. “It has been weeks since we met and talk directly to each other like this, hasn’t it, Chief Siwon?”
Siwon found himself couldn’t respond properly to that. It would be useless and totally out of place anyway for him to tell the truth to Sungmin that he indeed had been avoiding Sungmin ever since that night. Though his Emperor didn’t specifically order him to do so, it was surely what Heechul would want. Besides, Siwon still hadn’t ready to face the inner conflict he always seemed to have whenever Lee Sungmin was around him.
“Ah..., yes.” Siwon looked down, avoiding Sungmin’s sharp gaze on him. “But still you could just send someone to let me know and I would visit you for sure. There is no need to trouble yourself by coming all the way here.”
Hearing Siwon’s words, Sungmin just kept staring and said, “Would you mind accompanying me for a walk, Chief Siwon? I have something important to talk to you about.”
Siwon frowned at that. But of course he couldn’t say no, therefore he could only tow along behind Sungmin who had already started walking without even waiting for his answer.
Sungmin’s light steps brought them to one of Palace’s gardens nearby. It was already dark so Siwon wasn’t surprised to see that nobody else aside from them was there.
They were walking by rows of rose bushes in silence, and driven by this sudden desire to break it, Siwon decided to ask the Prince a question that had been on his mind for these past weeks.
“Your Royal Highness, I hope you won’t mind me asking this. But... are you okay?”
Sungmin stopped. His eyes was searching for Siwon’s, confused with the Chief’s sudden question.
Siwon looked away, embarrassed. “I... I mean, you looked so upset in the Banquet that night. So I was just wondering...”
“Ah..., you mean whether I still get that kind of treatment from people in the Palace?” Sungmin asked, finally fathoming Siwon’s meaning. His gaze at Siwon was now an amused one. “Really, you are just too kind.” Sungmin smiled softly.
The praise made Siwon feel awkward, still didn’t dare to look back at the Prince.
Sungmin was simpering at Siwon’s reaction. Continuing his steps, he said in a slow voice, “I’m fine. I need to be. Though it is indeed ironic how a son has to atone for his own mother’s greed for the rest of his life, and yet it seems like it’s still not enough.”
Siwon’s fist was clenching at the sad and dark tone Sungmin was using as he said that.
“But now that we are in this topic, then it should be easier to ask you this since it’s closely related to that matter.” Sungmin’s voice suddenly became more cheerful. “So what I’m trying to tell you is that I went to see the Emperor this morning.”
Siwon was staring at Sungmin, curious as to where he was going with this conversation.
“I proposed him a request to join me in a picnic I’ll set up exclusively just for the two of us tomorrow morning. It would take place in the Field of Butterfly. Do you know what place it is, Siwon-sshi?”
The Chief nodded.
Field of Butterfly was an esplanade with a very spectacular view near the Southern Sea. It was the former Emperor’s favorite place in the entire Kingdom. Siwon had been there several times, just so he could map the place geographically in case one day Heechul wished to visit the place.
But his Emperor preferred view of mountains more; therefore Siwon had never had to guard him to that place.
“So you do know the place. Then it’s even better.” Sungmin said happily. “Then you must know that the field is our father’s favorite spot. That is why I want to ask the Emperor to visit it, simply to get some quality time for both of us.” Sungmin’s face turned solemn. “I know I have to start from scratch to make myself welcomed in this Palace once again. And I thought that if I want other members of Royal Family to accept me, then first I need to win the Emperor’s favor. I realized it won’t be easy, considering Your Majesty must have possessed bad feelings towards me for what my mother had done to his. Therefore, I hope by taking this trip, we could get to know each other better and in the end, to have better understanding between the two of us mutually.”
Hearing that, Siwon almost stopped himself from saying what he was going to say, but he had never taken the Emperor’s safety lightly before and he wouldn’t start now.
“Forgive me, Your Royal Highness. But I believe it’d be too risky to take the Emperor to such an open place. Lately, the rebelling people had increased in numbers and I hope you wouldn’t suggest the Emperor to spend his leisure time in a potentially dangerous place like that.”
Sungmin stared deeply into Siwon’s eyes. “Ah, I should’ve known you’re going to have an objection on this matter. I’ve heard people talking about the relationship between you and the Emperor that seems like it’s deeper than what meets the eye.”
Siwon looked sharply at him. “What do you mean by that?”
Sungmin shrugged gracefully. “I mean, the fact that you’re still calling him ‘my Prince’ despite everyone calling him ‘Your Majesty’ shows just how close you two have been since long time ago.” He let out an amused smile. “You must be caring about him a lot, am I right?”
The Prince then stepped forward towards the Chief, stopping only after he got so close to Siwon that the taller man had to bow his head straightly down just so he could see clearly into Sungmin’s face. Siwon gulped down at the realization of how short the distance between both of them had become right now. Being this close, Siwon couldn’t ignore the plain sight of Sungmin’s beady eyes, sparkling beautifully with such long and thick eye lashes. His pursing lips were distractingly red and Siwon had to look away slightly just so he could focus his mind on more pressuring matters here.
“You told me not to do this for you are worried about his safety, I completely understand. However, Chief Siwon,” Sungmin spoke softly, eyes then flicking up to Siwon’s. “That being said... isn’t the single purpose for you and your men to exist is to protect the Emperor?” He smiled.
Siwon gritted his teeth, said nothing for he knew he couldn’t argue the cunning logic.
“I’m asking you a favor to just do anything that you deemed necessary to guarantee our beloved Emperor’s safety. I’m sure the Emperor, as well as I, completely has faith in you and your soldiers. After all, I know you won’t have the heart to try to stop me from trying to fix my severed bond with my own brother, will you?”
Siwon looked away from Sungmin’s pleading gaze, felt defeated. “Has Your Majesty given his consent on this?”
“Would I be talking to you about this right now if he hadn’t?” Sungmin chuckled, walking away from Siwon towards the pond nearby. “Now that you mention it, it was funny because at first he out-rightly refused when I asked him. But then it seemed like he was remembering something and he agreed to it in the end. When I questioned him about it, with a slight smile on his face he said that someone he held dear would definitely be pleased to hear that he was willing to spend time with me, his own brother.” Sungmin turned his head to Siwon. “You wouldn’t happen to know the person he talked about, would you, Chief Siwon?”
Siwon’s heart skipped a beat at hearing that. Looking down, he could feel such warmth flooding his inside. “No, I’m sorry I don’t, Your Royal Highness.” Siwon muttered.
“Is that so?” Sungmin stared at him for a long time with an unreadable expression, before letting out a small smile. “It’s too bad then because it makes me deadly curious. Well, I shall take my leave now. Please have my gratitude for agreeing to help me on this. I’ll leave it to you to make sure all will work well tomorrow.”
Siwon frowned in worry as he was watching Sungmin’s distancing figure disappeared behind the big oak tree. He wasn’t exaggerating when he said that in times like this it’d be too risky for the Emperor to go out to such an exposed place. However, now that it had become like this, he realized there was nothing he could do aside from preparing himself and his men so together they could maximize the guarding around the field tomorrow.
---00o00---
It was a bright and clear morning. The light breeze was blowing through the turf, creating a peaceful scene for everyone’s present in the field that day. No matter how many times he had been here before, Siwon still couldn’t stop admiring the exquisite place. He understood why this place had become the former Emperor’s favorite. If he closed his eyes and listened carefully, he could hear the faraway sound of waves and the high pitched squeaking of seagulls.
A beautiful open-ended bungalow that was built by the former Emperor in the middle of the esplanade was still sturdy and decent enough. And below its roof, a long table with various foods and drinks was set up. A small group of Artistes were sitting on one corner, holding each of their own specialized instruments, ready to entertain.
However, Siwon didn’t want to risk lowering his guard down. Dozens of Palace’s Guards he had brought along were assigned to guard the Bungalow together with Siwon’s men and some were sent to patrol around the field.
Standing on his place right behind Heechul, Siwon could see that Sungmin wasn’t joking when he said it was going to be just him and the Emperor. No other members of Royal family in sight, just a few Royal Eunuchs and Maidens who were busy doing the job assigned to each of them.
About an hour had passed since they arrived here. And though at some points it was awkward, Sungmin and Heechul had been involved in light conversations here and there. The Emperor even cracked a smile at one of Sungmin’s joke and Siwon was glad because it seemed like the two brother’s relationship would become much better when this day was over.
“Your Majesty, would you mind if I entertain you with a song?” Sungmin said, smiling as he poured another shot of wine into Heechul’s cup.
“Of course I wouldn’t. I’m sure I’d be obliged to hear you play.” Heechul said lightly, gulping down his wine.
Sungmin’s face brightened up. An Eunuch spryly brought over the Prince’s Hae-Gum. Bowing his head to Heechul, Sungmin reached out for the instrument and started to get ready.
On Sungmin’s cue, the Palace’s Artistes also put their fingers on their instrument, backing the Prince with unified counterpoint. The song Sungmin sang this time was one of the three verses of the famous Arirang. His clear voice pitched a tone of sadness to everybody who was listening to it.
Look on me! Look on me! Look on me!
In midwinter, when you see a flower, please think of me!
Ari-arirang! Ssuri-Ssurirang! Arariga nanne!
O'er Arirang Pass I long to cross today.
Moonkyung Bird Pass has too many curves--
Winding up, winding down, in tears I go.
Carry me, carry me, carry me and go!
When flowers bloom in Hanyang, carry me and go.
All through the song, Siwon found himself just couldn’t look away from Sungmin. He had seen the Prince’s performance once at the Banquet, but even now he was still caught in awe. Sungmin looked ethereally beautiful sitting there with a Hae-Gum on his lap; his sad expression showed just how much he was drowned into the song and Siwon’s heart twinge mysteriously at the sight.
Siwon had been interested in music for as long as he could remember. But his job had made it so that he only had a very few chances to sit back and enjoy it. Through the years he had spent in the Palace, there was only one man whose playing every time could stop Siwon from being so absorbed into his job. And it was the Emperor himself.
Heechul’s low and clear voice as he was singing a song and those long fingers moving swiftly over the strings of the Kayagum he was holding could always moved Siwon and made him lost in dazzling thought.
But it was back into those days when Heechul’s status was still a mere Prince. Ever since he was crowned as the new Emperor, there had been only so very few occasions where Siwon could hear him playing again. With all the Royal Duty and the exhaustion that followed, it was granted for Heechul to rarely get a chance to touch his favorite instrument.
That was why, the feeling Siwon got right now as he was watching Sungmin was like a déjà-vu all over again. And it was surprising because after all this time and of all people, Siwon had never once thought that the long lost Prince who returned only after years of being exiled was the one who could bring out this kind of feeling he hadn’t felt for a long time.
Heechul nodded in satisfaction when the song ended. Siwon blinked, pulled out of his thoughts by the applauses given by some of his men standing around.
The Eunuch earlier stepped forward and Sungmin handed the instrument in his hand back to him, looking pleased with the attention he got.
"Your playing has become much more fluent than the last time I heard, Sungmin-ah." Heechul said. "You must have been practicing a lot during those times you weren't here."
"You're too generous with your compliment, Your Majesty. I don't think I worth that much."
"What do you think, Siwon-ah?" Heechul looked behind his shoulder at the Chief.
Siwon was slightly taken aback with the question, surprised that once again he was asked for opinion on such matter.
"I personally enjoyed it very much too, Your Majesty." Siwon honestly said, smiling awkwardly. "... But would you mind if I ask a question to Your Royal Highness Prince Sungmin?"
Heechul stared at Siwon for a moment. "Sure, go ahead and ask."
"It's just that, I couldn't help but wonder why Your Royal Highness chose to sing the Miryang verse instead of other Arirang verses?"
Heechul's attention was back to Sungmin. "Yes, now that Siwon had said it, don't you think this verse gives off a feeling that is too contradictory with the calm and happy atmosphere we're in right now?"
Sungmin simpered at that. "Yes, I realized that too. Perhaps the reason is because I like the Miryang verse the most. Therefore, it's the only verse I'm good at amongst the three. I'm really sorry if by doing so I've brought everyone's mood down, especially to you, Chief Siwon."
"It's... it’s nothing like that Your Royal Highness." Siwon stuttered. "Like I said, I really enjoyed your song. So I feel very fortunate to be able to hear it."
Sungmin looked amusedly at him. "Chief Siwon, could it be that amongst the three, you also have your own favorite verse?"
Now his Emperor was also staring at him curiously. Siwon looked down, embarrassed. "Ah, yes. Well..., if Your Royal Highness thinks it’ll be interesting to know, actually I really like the original verse. In my humble opinion, it is the most beautiful one compared to the others. However, since it is also the longest one of all Arirang verse, it is rarely played and so it is also very rare for me to hear it."
Siwon flicked his gaze up just in time to see Heechul staring at him quizzically. His gaze made Siwon's stomach fluttered funnily. "Is that so, Siwon-ah?" Heechul asked him.
"Yes, Your Majesty." Siwon answered, feeling a little bit confused as he was lowering his head.
"... I see." Heechul said before looking away. Siwon watched him as he was smiling secretively to himself. For some reason, his Emperor had found something interesting in Siwon’s previous statement, but no matter how he put his thought into it, Siwon couldn’t figure out what on earth he had said that could make his emperor smile like that.
Heechul’s attention was back onto the table once again. He raised his empty cup and a Maiden hurriedly came closer to pour the wine into it.
Right at that time, an arrow suddenly flashed and speared through the Maiden's head which was right in front of the Emperor. Followed by everyone's surprised gasps, she fell lifelessly on top of the table with a thud. Fresh blood was oozing from her wound and in a blink of an eye, the situation had turned into a complete chaos.
Screaming was heard from all directions, people were hurriedly flattening their body to the ground or running away towards pointless directions in their panics and fears, trying to save themselves from the danger of being hit.
Another arrow flashed right in front of Siwon's eyes, spearing through the pole behind him. And looking faraway up front, Siwon could see a lot of men in black robe and mask over their face appeared from behind the hill, shouting and running towards the bungalow with weapons in each of their hands.
The Palace’s Guards and some of his men standing outside the bungalow saw it too. And they readied themselves for the unavoidable upcoming attack.
“PROTECT THE EMPEROR!!” Siwon shouted his order on top of his lungs, before going down and covered Heechul with his body, his eyes flicking around. Seeing Sungmin had also scooted closer to them, he then flipped up the table in front of them, using it as a temporary shield from the arrows coming. Meanwhile, hearing Siwon’s order, the Guards and all Soldiers of Flowers were roaring and striding forwards bravely, welcoming the attackers with the same fierceness.
Siwon's brain was instantly reeling in the midst of people screaming and arrows flashing and metal swords clanging, trying to figure out the best way to get his Emperor and the Prince into safety from this messed up situation. But looking around from behind the table, he could see that those men in black robe had had them surrounded. There were more of them coming from all direction and it only meant that it would be impossible for them to get out of here without killing their attackers first to make way to escape.
Seeing that the arrows attack had ceased, Siwon flung the table away and brought Heechul up to stand with him. Sungmin was up too. Siwon then stepped forward in front of Heechul and Sungmin, his strong grip was on his still-cased sword. Turning his head back to them for a second, he said. “Your Majesty, Your Royal Highness, please be careful. There were a lot of them.”
The Emperor and the Prince nodded. “Bring us our swords.” Heechul turned to the frightened Court’s Secretary standing beside them.
“But Your Majesty, please don’t bring the danger closer to yourself.” The Secretary said, hesitating as he pleaded. “Please stay here where it’s safe and let the soldiers take care of it.”
“Are you deaf? Shut your mouth and bring us our swords!” Heechul said, glaring angrily at him. The Secretary shriveled, instantly doing what the Emperor told him.
Scanning the on-going battle in front of his eyes, Siwon said nothing as Heechul and Sungmin took their own swords from the Secretary’s hands. Heechul was right to do so. They’d need all the protection they could use right now. Looking up ahead, some of their attackers had gone down, but the fallen warriors from their side were also as much. Most of them are the Palace’s Guards, while most of his men were still standing and fight. It was a given considering the greater combat skills his Soldiers of Flowers had than mere Guards. But more attackers were still showing from all directions, and Siwon knew it was only a matter of time until they made it through the defense barrier and into the Bungalow.
“Chief Siwon, protect Your Majesty! I’ll go closer to the battle field and and help your men to slow them down.” Sungmin suddenly said. And before Siwon could do anything to stop him, the Prince had strode forward, his sword in his hands.
The Secretary had run away somewhere in fear and now it was just him and Heechul left. And just like Siwon had predicted before, it didn’t take long before four of the attackers got through at almost the same time and jumped into the Bungalow, quickly surrounding both of them.
The one in the left is the first to strike, followed almost instantly by the other three. Siwon step forward to face the two of them, fully realizing that Heechul would have to take care the rest by himself. But Siwon knew how good Heechul’s sword skill is. He even used to train Siwon in their first years together. And just as Siwon finished taking down those two attackers, Heechul had also done his part.
But more of them were coming. Soon both Siwon and Heechul were busy defending themselves and each other from attacks coming endlessly from unexpected directions. Right at that moment, pulling his sword out of an attacker’s body, Siwon saw another one coming silently and fast from behind Heechul. Knowing Heechul’s hands were too full to realize the danger coming onto him as he was fighting two other attackers at once, Siwon jumped behind his Emperor and held back the attack. However, as he was slashing the man furiously, Siwon failed to see a threat coming from the side. By the time he did, it was already too late because right then he could feel piercing pain on his upper chest right below his shoulder. Looking down, he frowned as he saw an attacker’s sword stabbed deeply into him.
It wasn’t the first time for Siwon, but still the excrutiating pain instantly weakened him. Slashing his attacker with what’s left of his strength, Siwon shouted in frustration. Two of his men seeing that caught up with the situation fast and quickly jumped into the bungalow to help him protecting the Emperor, but still Siwon felt an immense anger to himself. He was definitely too careless and ended up unable to protect Heechul further.
Fallen down to his knees, using his sword to prop his weight, Siwon could hear Heechul shouting his name in worry. A moment later the Emperor had also kneeled down in front of him, forehead creasing, repeatedly asking him if he’s alright. Siwon could only nodded weakly. Looking around, he could see that the number of their attackers had decreased a lot. Only a few left and it wouldn’t take long before his men cornered them to their unavoidable death.
“Tell the guys not to kill all of them. We’ll need at least one of them to be questioned later.” Siwon muttered an order to one of his men at his left side, who nodded and left to do what Siwon asked.
“Save your strength or you’ll bleed even more.” Heechul said sternly, but Siwon could hear his voice trembling. However, Siwon couldn’t bring himself to look at Heechul in the eyes. He felt too ashamed for the state he was currently in.
“...Forgive me, my Prince...” Siwon whispered before his view darkened and he fell unconsciously right onto Heechul’s lap.
TBC
PS: This piece is still for Carey and Robyn. Love ya both, girls. :D
Author : freedomthisway
Rating : PG-13 for now.
Character/Pairing : Heechul, Siwon, Sungmin / SiChul, SiMin
Word Count : 8061 words for this chapter.
Genre : Epic-sized (?) Historical AU, Angst
Summary : Kim Heechul was an Emperor. A special force called Soldiers of Flowers was formed to protect the Emperor’s safety with all costs. Choi Siwon was its Chief. A tragic and cruel plot filled with betrayal was ensued in the midst of a fight for the Throne.
Author's Note : I watched Frozen Flower without a subtitle, is enchanted by it nonetheless (and no, it’s not because Jo In Sung looked totally edible in it, mind you), and this plot bunny came to disturb my life. Hope you’ll enjoy it, and comments: are loved.
This one isn't beta-ed yet. I can't keep pestering people so I hope you'll bear with it. But if there's anyone of you who is kind enough and is willing to do it, please PM me. I'd be so grateful. Thank you in advance.
SECOND SCROLL - spilled blood on green
Siwon stares with concern at the tense back of his Emperor. Sitting there on his Royal Throne, Heechul looked unusually restless and agitated. The Emperor’s mood was contagious, and everyone present was in silence.
“HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE SUNGMIN IS ENTERING THE ROOM.” The shout of the guards outside brought the already uncomfortable atmosphere up to one level higher. The tall wooden door swung open, and a man walked in, followed by several men and women dressed in Eunuch and Maiden uniform. They were Sungmin’s servants brought along from his previous ghetto, Siwon assumed.
Siwon didn’t know what was it he expected, but as his gaze --along with everyone else’s in the room-- fell onto the man’s profile; Siwon found it was hard to look away. The infamous Prince Sungmin turned out to be a breathtakingly beautiful man.
It was expected from someone who has royal blood flowing in his vein. But still, it was rare to see such perfection of beauty that can be compared to the fairness of the Emperor himself. The way Prince Sungmin walked as if he was gliding, the way his eyes gazing upfront with a confidence, the way the corner of his mouth curved attractively as he was smiling at the realization that almost everyone in the room was captivated by him, almost everything in him made people instantly paid extra attention on him and the tense atmosphere earlier had shifted into mass admiration.
Sungmin stopped a few meters in front of the Emperor, and bowed gracefully.
“Long live for you, Your Majesty. Sungmin is here and I humbly hope Your Majesty will be willing to accept me to stay in Hwang Jeum starting from now on.” Sungmin’s voice was what you’d call pleasantly clear and calming. Not too deep, but with a unique authoritative tone that left no place for ignorance. His choice of words was flawless and his movement showed that he seemed to master all Royal Etiquette to the boot despite the fact that he spent most of his lifetime in exile.
Siwon glanced to the side and he could see Heechul’s hands were gripping each side of his chair so hard that his skin was whitened.
“You’ve grown into a fine young man, Sungmin-ah.” Heechul said with gritted teeth.
Sungmin’s smile was wide as he said, “You’re too kind, Your Majesty. It is thanks to our father that I and my mother’s life were filled with happiness everyday.”
“Ah, yes. Please take my condolences. I’m sorry I couldn’t attend your mother’s burial ceremony.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty. And don’t worry about it. I’m already grateful to you as it is.”
Heechul lifted one of his hands and one of the Eunuchs stepped forward. “I’m sure you must be tired.” Heechul said, eyes were back on Sungmin. “I’ve arranged a chamber for you and your servants and that’s where you’ll be taken. I hope you’ll have a good rest, my dear brother. The welcoming party will be held tomorrow. I know lots of our families have been dying to see you once again.”
“I do hope so, Sire. Though with the shameful record my mother is having, I sincerely doubt it.” Sungmin said, bowing down once again to show his gratitude.
That sentence brought grave silence into the room. Nobody thought Prince Sungmin would bring up this certain topic by himself this early.
Heechul said nothing for a moment, but then with a sharp tone he said, “I’m never a man who holds grudges, Sungmin-ah. Especially if it is something happened a long time ago. And I’m pretty sure the rest of the people living in Hwang Jeum share the same opinion. It’s better to just forgive and forget, don’t you think?”
Sungmin’s gaze to Heechul wasn’t less sharp, but it only lasts for a second before he flicks his eyes down. “It was inappropriate for me to say things like I did, Sire. Please forgive me.”
“I forgive you. But I hope you’ll pay more attention to words you‘ll say in the future. You are, after all, one of the honored members of Royal Family.” Heechul said and rises up to stand, followed by everyone’s bowing down deeply.
Heechul started to walk away, but only after he stepped to Siwon’s side and whispered on his ear. “I’ll be expecting you in my room right after you’re done here, Siwon-ah.”
And for a moment, Siwon was stunned by the awful amount of need he saw in Heechul’s eyes. Watching Heechul’s leaving, Siwon turned his gaze at Sungmin just in time to see the Prince watching both of them sharply. Something unrecognizable was flashing inside the Sungmin’s eyes but it was gone too fast and Siwon wondered if it was only his imagination.
After Heechul was gone, Sungmin and his servants also left the Hall right behind the Eunuch who led them to their prepared chamber.
The room began to buzz with people’s talking after those two’s leaving and Siwon took a deep breath, couldn’t help but feel that from now on, Hwang Jeum palace wouldn’t be as in peace as it had been before.
---00o00---
The long table set up in one side of Hwang Jeum Palace’s Royal Square was filled with delicious foods and beverages served on golden trays and cups. Royal Maidens were scurrying all over the place, carrying silver flasks on their hands and refilling any empty cups they can find with Kingdom’s best wine.
Behind the table, sat the Emperor on his honored seat in the middle, on each of his side were the Queen and Prince Sungmin as the main guest tonight, followed with all the Concubines, lines of Royal Princes and Princesses, other members of Royal family, and the last were the Ministers and Nobles invited beforehand to this Banquet specially held to celebrate Lee Sungmin’s returning to the Palace.
Siwon was standing in guard right behind the Emperor, some of his men were beside him, and the rest of the others were placed in their position all over the Square.
The sound of music flowing from the stage, played by Palace’s selected Artistes gathered especially for royal occasion such as this were more than entertaining. Some of the Ministers and Nobles were even so carried away with it that they joined the Royal Dancers and started to dance to their heart desire.
“How does it feel to return to all this excitement, Prince Sungmin?” The Queen asked with a gentle smile on her face. “The Hwang Jeum Palace, after all, is a place like no other can find here in Korea.”
Sungmin waited until a Royal Maiden finished refilling his cup before answering with a bright smile. “I feel honored for sure, Your Majesty Queen.” Sungmin turned his gaze off the Queen to have a better view over the Palace. “I hope you don’t mind me saying this, but I really admire you. You’ve done such a great job taking care of the Palace. To tell the truth, I’ve never seen Hwang Jeum in more beautiful condition than it is now under your care. And I can tell how much hard work you’ve put up to prepare a Banquet such grandeur as this. For that, I’m really thankful.” He lowered his head respectfully towards the Queen.
The Queen’s blush was clearly visible under hundreds of torch lights lighting up The Royal Square, and she laughed happily, obviously pleased with Sungmin’s praise.
“It’s really nice to have you around once again, Prince Sungmin.” All of a sudden, one of Emperor’s brothers, Prince Seung Goon’s voice was heard from somewhere on the right side. Siwon along with many others turned their eyes on him and Siwon frowned, because despite what he said, Prince Seung Goon’s expression was so dark and his smile was all fake.
“Now that we’re all here, I can’t help but reminiscing into the past.” Prince Seung Goon said again and somehow Siwon was sure his words held more meaning than it seemed to be. His slightly reddened face was a clear sign that he had started to get drunk. “I remember that you’re pretty good in playing Hae-Gum, aren’t you, Prince Sungmin? I hope Your Majesty won’t mind me asking you this, but won’t you give us the honor of being entertained by your play tonight.” Then he leaned forward, turned his face to the side and stared right into Sungmin’s eyes, one corner of his mouth was raised to form an ugly smirk. “Or is it you’ve forgotten all about it? You know, being casted away from the Palace for so long and all.”
Everyone close enough to hear the sudden not-so-innocent request and the hidden insult in the words following it was went into silence, but some of the Royal Family’s members were stealing curious glances at Sungmin. Now that Siwon had taken better look, there were lots of people here that seemed like they were bearing the same dislike as Prince Seung Goon had towards Sungmin, and most of them weren’t even trying to hide it from their expression.
Sungmin’s face was still looked calm, but Siwon could see that he was started to feel upset by the way his jaw was tightened. Sungmin turned to give Heechul a meaningful stare, but his Emperor said nothing, just gulping down his wine instead.
Sungmin looked away in the end, smiling, and Siwon stared at him in awe, because he knew it took a lot of inner strength for a man to do so after receiving such a big blow on his dignity.
“Well, I’ll be more than happy to entertain such Royal party as all of you are. Though I’m sure my ability is still far fetched from what our Emperor can do with a Kayagum in his hands.” Sungmin’s voice was admirably composed as he spread his gaze towards all the people sitting behind the table. “But still, I believe we should ask the opinion of those people present here who has never seen me playing before. I don’t want them to have regret, or worse, a nightmare after seeing me playing horribly.” Some of the Princesses sitting on the far side were giggling at the joke, and right at that second Sungmin turned his head back and locked his gaze onto Siwon’s. “What do you think, Chief Siwon? Would you mind if I played a song or two to make this Banquet all the merrier?”
Siwon’s heart skipped a beat, realizing that now everyone’s attention was on him. Everyone’s but Heechul’s. His Emperor was just sitting there, his back on him, but Siwon could clearly see the way Heechul gripped his golden cup even tighter with each second passing. Siwon gulped down, completely lost as to where Sungmin was going with this; asking opinion about such matter to him who was a mere Chief standing on guard. But still Siwon turned his gaze back on Sungmin and bowed deeply, saying the only thing he could say at moments like this. “It’ll be my pleasure to hear you playing, Your Royal Highness.”
Siwon looked up just in time to see Sungmin’s smile at him was filled with satisfaction and relief. And unconsciously, he found himself returning the smile.
“Then if you don’t mind, I’ll excuse myself, Your Majesty.” Sungmin said cheerfully with his gaze down in respect to Heechul. “I need to make some preparation first so that I won’t disappoint all of you.”
Heechul simply nodded at that, but Sungmin didn’t seem to pay any heed to the coldness the Emperor was showing him. Instead, he rose up with full spirit, stepped down carefully and made his way to the stage in the center of the court, instantly blending himself in the midst of Palace’s Artistes.
Not more than a few minutes later, the music being played earlier was stopped. Everyone’s eyes were on Sungmin who was already in the center of the stage, holding a Hae-Gum’s bow in one of his hand, and the wooden Hae-Gum itself in another. From the way he’s smiling secretively to himself, full with confidence, Siwon knew Prince Sungmin was about to put everyone’s present in a trance with his play.
And that was what happened, right from the very first note. It was as if the whole Square was conjured when Doraji was starting to flow out from the strings fiddled by the bow in Sungmin’s dainty fingers.
Doraji was a song that was commonly played in every party and banquet Siwon had ever attended. It told a story of beautiful white bellflowers. Siwon had never seen the beauty of the flower itself, but still he could always easily picture it on his mind whenever the Doraji was played. It was one of the reasons why he had been liking it ever since he was a little boy.
Doraji, doraji, doraji! I walk over the pass where doraji flowers bloom.
It is a path that is familiar to me.
Hey-ya, hey!
Doraji, doraji, doraji! I look at these white flowers that remind me of my mother,
in the evening with the twinkling stars.
Hey-ya-hei!
Doraji, doraji, doraji! When I wear these white flowers on my hair,
it remind me of my young days and my dreams.
Hey-ya, hey!
Sungmin was singing the song with an unbelievably clear voice even in the midst of tumultuous music played along by other Artistes all together. By the time the song ended, applauses were heard all over the Square. Most of them were coming from lines of Ministry and those members of Royal Family who had never met Sungmin before, including the Queen and the Concubines. The rest of them were simply acting ignorant, putting on sour faces. And that was when Siwon realized that those people who didn’t like Sungmin were actually hoping for him to make some mistakes during his play, hoping to have a chance to see Sungmin embarrassed himself. But Sungmin’s amazing performance had shattered their expectation.
The Emperor’s expression was the only one who hadn’t changed. Heechul was still sitting there, sipping his wine silently in the midst of people cheering.
Sungmin returned to his seat with a wide grin on his face, looked completely satisfied with himself because it was impossible for him to not realize what Siwon had about what actually took place here: a test to put him to shame.
Siwon couldn’t help but smile at that and he lifted one of his hands to cover his mouth. Sungmin seemed like he wasn’t going to have it easy -returning to live here-- but somehow Siwon was sure that he had what it took to go through all of it just fine.
But then the table turned against Sungmin, so fast that no one saw it coming.
“You’re so talented, Prince Sungmin.” Prince Seung Goon suddenly spoke from his seat.
Sungmin calmly turned to him, lowering his head a little at the praise. However, he seemed like he fully knew that there’d be something unpleasant follow.
“In fact,” Prince Seung Goon continued, slurring a little in his drunken state. “You reminded me of your mother, Min Ji.”
Lots of people chuckling at that and some of the Concubines were gasping.
Siwon blinked. It wasn’t just the way Prince Seung Goon saying the former Emperor’s First Concubine’s name distastefully that had made the frown returned onto Siwon’s forehead, but also how he mention her name without adding any honorary whatsoever after it. Siwon had heard that Sungmin’s mother had been dismantled from all of her Royal appellations and titles the second she was banned from the palace, but still, to call her name in that fashion in front of her own son was totally inappropriate.
“Ah, yes.” Another Emperor’s brother, Prince Sam Soon, was joining the one-sided conversation. “I can still remember her. She’s so beautiful, and so talented. And one smart woman, I tell you. She, for sure, knew how to use all of her ability and potential to catch our former Emperor’s attention.”
This time, the laughter coming from several direction wasn’t that distinctive anymore. As if on cue, other Princes were starting to add comments here and there that made the laughter got even louder, but the essences of tonight’s topic had gotten clearer by the second: despising Sungmin’s mother, Min Ji.
All the way through it, Sungmin’s face was completely paling. All the self-satisfaction earlier had lost from his expression, but he said nothing. Siwon knew it was because there was nothing Sungmin could do after all. It was a Banquet arranged by the Emperor, and there was nobody who had rights to control the situation aside from the Emperor himself, no matter how messed up it had been.
That was why Siwon was watching Heechul’s back impatiently, gritting his teeth, wondering why his Emperor hadn’t said a word to stop what was happening. Siwon knew that it wasn’t to his Emperor’s liking to witness such low plotting in his meal time. But more minutes had passed; still Heechul hadn’t given a respond that Siwon was expecting. His Emperor was keep enjoying his night, acting as if nothing was happened.
Frustrated, Siwon could only stand there. Occasionally his gaze was flicked towards Sungmin, couldn’t help but felt immense pity to the Prince who was now drinking and eating in silence, most probably trying to deafen his ear from all the inappropriate comments on his mother that were still being spouted by the others.
---00o00-
Siwon could feel Heechul’s gaze on him, but still he kept on staring at the ceiling of Heechul’s room in silence.
Heechul changed his position into lying on his back. “I know that expression, Siwon-ah.” He said after a while. And when Siwon kept saying nothing, he sighed. “You’re mad, I get it. But really, if you have anything to say to me, I’d rather have you saying it to my face right now.”
Siwon didn’t budge. “I know my place, my Prince. I would never dare to get mad at you.” The young Chief said the lies in a flat tone.
Heechul cursed at hearing that. He only did it in front of Siwon and Siwon knew it was a sign that his Emperor was feeling horribly agitated. “I’m not in the mood for joke, Siwon-ah. You’re testing my patience here.” Heechul’s voice was tinged with a hint of anger, and now it was Siwon’s turn to sigh.
Closing his eyes, Siwon said, “I’m truly sorry, my Prince. But I’m feeling so tired right now. Would you mind if we continue this conversation sometime tomorrow?”
“Damn if I wouldn’t.” Heechul hissed, sounded like he was being completely annoyed now. He then rose up into sitting position. “Is this because of what happened in the Banquet tonight?” Heechul asked without looking at Siwon.
Siwon stared at Heechul’s back. “... You should’ve said something to stop all of them from embarrassing your own brother like that.” Siwon said, his voice was wavering a little because though it wasn’t the first time but still this was one of very few occasions where he would question his Emperor. Something that would instantly be rewarded with a minimum five years sentence in Palace’s underground prison if it had been someone else other than Siwon who did it.
“What do you want me to say?” Heechul responded in a flash. “Like I said before, in her effort to make Sungmin the Heir, Sungmin’s mother had done so many terrible things to people in this palace that even when she’s gone, the pain and scar she had left are still lingering inside those people she hurt. And I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it too. Sometimes I can still remember how my mother cried alone in her chamber after having a fight with father, and it was all because of that woman...”
“You said to Prince Sungmin before that you are never a man who holds grudges, my Prince.” Siwon finally snapped, rose up to look at Heechul.
Heechul stared at him unbelievingly. “...Of all people, you should be the one who knows that it’s a flat out lie, Siwon-ah.” He whispered.
Those words left Siwon speechless and the room was suddenly filled with silence.
Heechul narrowed his eyes. “Tell me if I’m wrong, but if I didn’t know better, I’d say you’ve taken interest in Sungmin more than I’ve ever wanted you to have.” He said in a dangerous tone.
Siwon looked at Heechul, a bit taken aback with the Emperor’s words because what Heechul said was something that had never crossed his mind before. But now that it had been mentioned, Siwon couldn’t help but wondering.
Was he really, towards Lee Sungmin?
It was like a fire starter, that’s how it was. One second Siwon was asking himself the very question and the next, his mind was rapidly filled with everything and anything his memory had reserved about Sungmin since Siwon met him for the first time two days ago.
All of a sudden, Siwon’s heart was thumping uncontrollably with the exciting fervor this newfound feeling had brought upon him. And yet at the same time he could feel such violent fear inside him, because Heechul was still looking at him like that. The Emperor’s eyes were piercing a hole into his, waiting.
Siwon tried hard to get a grip of himself as he gave Heechul a kind of answer he knew was expected of him, “There was absolutely nothing like that, my Prince. Please forgive me for I have never meant to make you worry like this.”
Heechul’s gaze was softened. His eyelashes were fluttering in relief as he said, “You’re right. Today is so tiring for me too. Let’s stop all this talk and just get some sleep.” Heechul then laid himself back on the silken sheet, his hand laid on Siwon’s forearm was pressing slightly, silently pleading him to do the same.
Siwon was stung with guilt and something else at that tiny display of fragility Heechul was showing him. It made him complied without saying anything, but still he couldn’t stop his head from trying to wrap around the whole Sungmin thing.
Heechul dragged his head closer until it was laid on top of Siwon’s shoulder. It was a position Heechul once said making him feel the most restful and Siwon knew that despite what he said, his Emperor was surely still feeling restless and insecure.
The night had gone darker, but unlike how it used to be, the sound of Heechul’s regular breathing in his sleep couldn’t set Siwon’s heart into peace.
---00o00---
The sun almost set and all Soldiers of Flowers --aside from those who were having their turn to guard around the palace-- were staying in the dorm. The Emperor had nothing scheduled to do today and since Heechul also hadn’t asked for his presence in his room for all day long, Siwon was spending this rare spare time by training with some of his men throughout the afternoon.
He was in the middle of sharpening his sword in one corner of the dorm yard when one of the soldiers approached him.
“Chief, His Royal Highness Prince Sungmin is here to see you.”
Siwon frowned at the way his heart skipping a beat at the mention of Sungmin’s name. Sheathing his sword back into its case, Siwon then walked towards the big thick wooden gate that was the one and only entrance to Soldiers of Flowers’ dorm.
Nobody aside from the Emperor was allowed to set foot inside the dorm complex and the punishment for those infringing it was death. The extreme rule was set up not for nothing. This special troop Siwon led was consisted of people closest with the Emperor and everything they know or say could threaten the Emperor’s safety if it was found out by someone else with bad intention. All soldiers were trying their best to obey the internal rule saying that they need to watch their mouth carefully whenever they were outside the dorm. But once they were inside, they were allowed to talk more freely and that was why the dorm area was designed and built to be soundproof and impenetrable.
Two soldiers standing in guard opened the heavy door for Siwon to pass through, and as he stepped out, he could see Sungmin waiting for him across the gate, smiling at Siwon when he saw him approaching.
Siwon bowed deeply once he stood in front of the Prince. “Your Royal Highness, it was a surprise to hear you wanting to see me.”
Sungmin’s smile got wider. “It has been weeks since we met and talk directly to each other like this, hasn’t it, Chief Siwon?”
Siwon found himself couldn’t respond properly to that. It would be useless and totally out of place anyway for him to tell the truth to Sungmin that he indeed had been avoiding Sungmin ever since that night. Though his Emperor didn’t specifically order him to do so, it was surely what Heechul would want. Besides, Siwon still hadn’t ready to face the inner conflict he always seemed to have whenever Lee Sungmin was around him.
“Ah..., yes.” Siwon looked down, avoiding Sungmin’s sharp gaze on him. “But still you could just send someone to let me know and I would visit you for sure. There is no need to trouble yourself by coming all the way here.”
Hearing Siwon’s words, Sungmin just kept staring and said, “Would you mind accompanying me for a walk, Chief Siwon? I have something important to talk to you about.”
Siwon frowned at that. But of course he couldn’t say no, therefore he could only tow along behind Sungmin who had already started walking without even waiting for his answer.
Sungmin’s light steps brought them to one of Palace’s gardens nearby. It was already dark so Siwon wasn’t surprised to see that nobody else aside from them was there.
They were walking by rows of rose bushes in silence, and driven by this sudden desire to break it, Siwon decided to ask the Prince a question that had been on his mind for these past weeks.
“Your Royal Highness, I hope you won’t mind me asking this. But... are you okay?”
Sungmin stopped. His eyes was searching for Siwon’s, confused with the Chief’s sudden question.
Siwon looked away, embarrassed. “I... I mean, you looked so upset in the Banquet that night. So I was just wondering...”
“Ah..., you mean whether I still get that kind of treatment from people in the Palace?” Sungmin asked, finally fathoming Siwon’s meaning. His gaze at Siwon was now an amused one. “Really, you are just too kind.” Sungmin smiled softly.
The praise made Siwon feel awkward, still didn’t dare to look back at the Prince.
Sungmin was simpering at Siwon’s reaction. Continuing his steps, he said in a slow voice, “I’m fine. I need to be. Though it is indeed ironic how a son has to atone for his own mother’s greed for the rest of his life, and yet it seems like it’s still not enough.”
Siwon’s fist was clenching at the sad and dark tone Sungmin was using as he said that.
“But now that we are in this topic, then it should be easier to ask you this since it’s closely related to that matter.” Sungmin’s voice suddenly became more cheerful. “So what I’m trying to tell you is that I went to see the Emperor this morning.”
Siwon was staring at Sungmin, curious as to where he was going with this conversation.
“I proposed him a request to join me in a picnic I’ll set up exclusively just for the two of us tomorrow morning. It would take place in the Field of Butterfly. Do you know what place it is, Siwon-sshi?”
The Chief nodded.
Field of Butterfly was an esplanade with a very spectacular view near the Southern Sea. It was the former Emperor’s favorite place in the entire Kingdom. Siwon had been there several times, just so he could map the place geographically in case one day Heechul wished to visit the place.
But his Emperor preferred view of mountains more; therefore Siwon had never had to guard him to that place.
“So you do know the place. Then it’s even better.” Sungmin said happily. “Then you must know that the field is our father’s favorite spot. That is why I want to ask the Emperor to visit it, simply to get some quality time for both of us.” Sungmin’s face turned solemn. “I know I have to start from scratch to make myself welcomed in this Palace once again. And I thought that if I want other members of Royal Family to accept me, then first I need to win the Emperor’s favor. I realized it won’t be easy, considering Your Majesty must have possessed bad feelings towards me for what my mother had done to his. Therefore, I hope by taking this trip, we could get to know each other better and in the end, to have better understanding between the two of us mutually.”
Hearing that, Siwon almost stopped himself from saying what he was going to say, but he had never taken the Emperor’s safety lightly before and he wouldn’t start now.
“Forgive me, Your Royal Highness. But I believe it’d be too risky to take the Emperor to such an open place. Lately, the rebelling people had increased in numbers and I hope you wouldn’t suggest the Emperor to spend his leisure time in a potentially dangerous place like that.”
Sungmin stared deeply into Siwon’s eyes. “Ah, I should’ve known you’re going to have an objection on this matter. I’ve heard people talking about the relationship between you and the Emperor that seems like it’s deeper than what meets the eye.”
Siwon looked sharply at him. “What do you mean by that?”
Sungmin shrugged gracefully. “I mean, the fact that you’re still calling him ‘my Prince’ despite everyone calling him ‘Your Majesty’ shows just how close you two have been since long time ago.” He let out an amused smile. “You must be caring about him a lot, am I right?”
The Prince then stepped forward towards the Chief, stopping only after he got so close to Siwon that the taller man had to bow his head straightly down just so he could see clearly into Sungmin’s face. Siwon gulped down at the realization of how short the distance between both of them had become right now. Being this close, Siwon couldn’t ignore the plain sight of Sungmin’s beady eyes, sparkling beautifully with such long and thick eye lashes. His pursing lips were distractingly red and Siwon had to look away slightly just so he could focus his mind on more pressuring matters here.
“You told me not to do this for you are worried about his safety, I completely understand. However, Chief Siwon,” Sungmin spoke softly, eyes then flicking up to Siwon’s. “That being said... isn’t the single purpose for you and your men to exist is to protect the Emperor?” He smiled.
Siwon gritted his teeth, said nothing for he knew he couldn’t argue the cunning logic.
“I’m asking you a favor to just do anything that you deemed necessary to guarantee our beloved Emperor’s safety. I’m sure the Emperor, as well as I, completely has faith in you and your soldiers. After all, I know you won’t have the heart to try to stop me from trying to fix my severed bond with my own brother, will you?”
Siwon looked away from Sungmin’s pleading gaze, felt defeated. “Has Your Majesty given his consent on this?”
“Would I be talking to you about this right now if he hadn’t?” Sungmin chuckled, walking away from Siwon towards the pond nearby. “Now that you mention it, it was funny because at first he out-rightly refused when I asked him. But then it seemed like he was remembering something and he agreed to it in the end. When I questioned him about it, with a slight smile on his face he said that someone he held dear would definitely be pleased to hear that he was willing to spend time with me, his own brother.” Sungmin turned his head to Siwon. “You wouldn’t happen to know the person he talked about, would you, Chief Siwon?”
Siwon’s heart skipped a beat at hearing that. Looking down, he could feel such warmth flooding his inside. “No, I’m sorry I don’t, Your Royal Highness.” Siwon muttered.
“Is that so?” Sungmin stared at him for a long time with an unreadable expression, before letting out a small smile. “It’s too bad then because it makes me deadly curious. Well, I shall take my leave now. Please have my gratitude for agreeing to help me on this. I’ll leave it to you to make sure all will work well tomorrow.”
Siwon frowned in worry as he was watching Sungmin’s distancing figure disappeared behind the big oak tree. He wasn’t exaggerating when he said that in times like this it’d be too risky for the Emperor to go out to such an exposed place. However, now that it had become like this, he realized there was nothing he could do aside from preparing himself and his men so together they could maximize the guarding around the field tomorrow.
---00o00---
It was a bright and clear morning. The light breeze was blowing through the turf, creating a peaceful scene for everyone’s present in the field that day. No matter how many times he had been here before, Siwon still couldn’t stop admiring the exquisite place. He understood why this place had become the former Emperor’s favorite. If he closed his eyes and listened carefully, he could hear the faraway sound of waves and the high pitched squeaking of seagulls.
A beautiful open-ended bungalow that was built by the former Emperor in the middle of the esplanade was still sturdy and decent enough. And below its roof, a long table with various foods and drinks was set up. A small group of Artistes were sitting on one corner, holding each of their own specialized instruments, ready to entertain.
However, Siwon didn’t want to risk lowering his guard down. Dozens of Palace’s Guards he had brought along were assigned to guard the Bungalow together with Siwon’s men and some were sent to patrol around the field.
Standing on his place right behind Heechul, Siwon could see that Sungmin wasn’t joking when he said it was going to be just him and the Emperor. No other members of Royal family in sight, just a few Royal Eunuchs and Maidens who were busy doing the job assigned to each of them.
About an hour had passed since they arrived here. And though at some points it was awkward, Sungmin and Heechul had been involved in light conversations here and there. The Emperor even cracked a smile at one of Sungmin’s joke and Siwon was glad because it seemed like the two brother’s relationship would become much better when this day was over.
“Your Majesty, would you mind if I entertain you with a song?” Sungmin said, smiling as he poured another shot of wine into Heechul’s cup.
“Of course I wouldn’t. I’m sure I’d be obliged to hear you play.” Heechul said lightly, gulping down his wine.
Sungmin’s face brightened up. An Eunuch spryly brought over the Prince’s Hae-Gum. Bowing his head to Heechul, Sungmin reached out for the instrument and started to get ready.
On Sungmin’s cue, the Palace’s Artistes also put their fingers on their instrument, backing the Prince with unified counterpoint. The song Sungmin sang this time was one of the three verses of the famous Arirang. His clear voice pitched a tone of sadness to everybody who was listening to it.
Look on me! Look on me! Look on me!
In midwinter, when you see a flower, please think of me!
Ari-arirang! Ssuri-Ssurirang! Arariga nanne!
O'er Arirang Pass I long to cross today.
Moonkyung Bird Pass has too many curves--
Winding up, winding down, in tears I go.
Carry me, carry me, carry me and go!
When flowers bloom in Hanyang, carry me and go.
All through the song, Siwon found himself just couldn’t look away from Sungmin. He had seen the Prince’s performance once at the Banquet, but even now he was still caught in awe. Sungmin looked ethereally beautiful sitting there with a Hae-Gum on his lap; his sad expression showed just how much he was drowned into the song and Siwon’s heart twinge mysteriously at the sight.
Siwon had been interested in music for as long as he could remember. But his job had made it so that he only had a very few chances to sit back and enjoy it. Through the years he had spent in the Palace, there was only one man whose playing every time could stop Siwon from being so absorbed into his job. And it was the Emperor himself.
Heechul’s low and clear voice as he was singing a song and those long fingers moving swiftly over the strings of the Kayagum he was holding could always moved Siwon and made him lost in dazzling thought.
But it was back into those days when Heechul’s status was still a mere Prince. Ever since he was crowned as the new Emperor, there had been only so very few occasions where Siwon could hear him playing again. With all the Royal Duty and the exhaustion that followed, it was granted for Heechul to rarely get a chance to touch his favorite instrument.
That was why, the feeling Siwon got right now as he was watching Sungmin was like a déjà-vu all over again. And it was surprising because after all this time and of all people, Siwon had never once thought that the long lost Prince who returned only after years of being exiled was the one who could bring out this kind of feeling he hadn’t felt for a long time.
Heechul nodded in satisfaction when the song ended. Siwon blinked, pulled out of his thoughts by the applauses given by some of his men standing around.
The Eunuch earlier stepped forward and Sungmin handed the instrument in his hand back to him, looking pleased with the attention he got.
"Your playing has become much more fluent than the last time I heard, Sungmin-ah." Heechul said. "You must have been practicing a lot during those times you weren't here."
"You're too generous with your compliment, Your Majesty. I don't think I worth that much."
"What do you think, Siwon-ah?" Heechul looked behind his shoulder at the Chief.
Siwon was slightly taken aback with the question, surprised that once again he was asked for opinion on such matter.
"I personally enjoyed it very much too, Your Majesty." Siwon honestly said, smiling awkwardly. "... But would you mind if I ask a question to Your Royal Highness Prince Sungmin?"
Heechul stared at Siwon for a moment. "Sure, go ahead and ask."
"It's just that, I couldn't help but wonder why Your Royal Highness chose to sing the Miryang verse instead of other Arirang verses?"
Heechul's attention was back to Sungmin. "Yes, now that Siwon had said it, don't you think this verse gives off a feeling that is too contradictory with the calm and happy atmosphere we're in right now?"
Sungmin simpered at that. "Yes, I realized that too. Perhaps the reason is because I like the Miryang verse the most. Therefore, it's the only verse I'm good at amongst the three. I'm really sorry if by doing so I've brought everyone's mood down, especially to you, Chief Siwon."
"It's... it’s nothing like that Your Royal Highness." Siwon stuttered. "Like I said, I really enjoyed your song. So I feel very fortunate to be able to hear it."
Sungmin looked amusedly at him. "Chief Siwon, could it be that amongst the three, you also have your own favorite verse?"
Now his Emperor was also staring at him curiously. Siwon looked down, embarrassed. "Ah, yes. Well..., if Your Royal Highness thinks it’ll be interesting to know, actually I really like the original verse. In my humble opinion, it is the most beautiful one compared to the others. However, since it is also the longest one of all Arirang verse, it is rarely played and so it is also very rare for me to hear it."
Siwon flicked his gaze up just in time to see Heechul staring at him quizzically. His gaze made Siwon's stomach fluttered funnily. "Is that so, Siwon-ah?" Heechul asked him.
"Yes, Your Majesty." Siwon answered, feeling a little bit confused as he was lowering his head.
"... I see." Heechul said before looking away. Siwon watched him as he was smiling secretively to himself. For some reason, his Emperor had found something interesting in Siwon’s previous statement, but no matter how he put his thought into it, Siwon couldn’t figure out what on earth he had said that could make his emperor smile like that.
Heechul’s attention was back onto the table once again. He raised his empty cup and a Maiden hurriedly came closer to pour the wine into it.
Right at that time, an arrow suddenly flashed and speared through the Maiden's head which was right in front of the Emperor. Followed by everyone's surprised gasps, she fell lifelessly on top of the table with a thud. Fresh blood was oozing from her wound and in a blink of an eye, the situation had turned into a complete chaos.
Screaming was heard from all directions, people were hurriedly flattening their body to the ground or running away towards pointless directions in their panics and fears, trying to save themselves from the danger of being hit.
Another arrow flashed right in front of Siwon's eyes, spearing through the pole behind him. And looking faraway up front, Siwon could see a lot of men in black robe and mask over their face appeared from behind the hill, shouting and running towards the bungalow with weapons in each of their hands.
The Palace’s Guards and some of his men standing outside the bungalow saw it too. And they readied themselves for the unavoidable upcoming attack.
“PROTECT THE EMPEROR!!” Siwon shouted his order on top of his lungs, before going down and covered Heechul with his body, his eyes flicking around. Seeing Sungmin had also scooted closer to them, he then flipped up the table in front of them, using it as a temporary shield from the arrows coming. Meanwhile, hearing Siwon’s order, the Guards and all Soldiers of Flowers were roaring and striding forwards bravely, welcoming the attackers with the same fierceness.
Siwon's brain was instantly reeling in the midst of people screaming and arrows flashing and metal swords clanging, trying to figure out the best way to get his Emperor and the Prince into safety from this messed up situation. But looking around from behind the table, he could see that those men in black robe had had them surrounded. There were more of them coming from all direction and it only meant that it would be impossible for them to get out of here without killing their attackers first to make way to escape.
Seeing that the arrows attack had ceased, Siwon flung the table away and brought Heechul up to stand with him. Sungmin was up too. Siwon then stepped forward in front of Heechul and Sungmin, his strong grip was on his still-cased sword. Turning his head back to them for a second, he said. “Your Majesty, Your Royal Highness, please be careful. There were a lot of them.”
The Emperor and the Prince nodded. “Bring us our swords.” Heechul turned to the frightened Court’s Secretary standing beside them.
“But Your Majesty, please don’t bring the danger closer to yourself.” The Secretary said, hesitating as he pleaded. “Please stay here where it’s safe and let the soldiers take care of it.”
“Are you deaf? Shut your mouth and bring us our swords!” Heechul said, glaring angrily at him. The Secretary shriveled, instantly doing what the Emperor told him.
Scanning the on-going battle in front of his eyes, Siwon said nothing as Heechul and Sungmin took their own swords from the Secretary’s hands. Heechul was right to do so. They’d need all the protection they could use right now. Looking up ahead, some of their attackers had gone down, but the fallen warriors from their side were also as much. Most of them are the Palace’s Guards, while most of his men were still standing and fight. It was a given considering the greater combat skills his Soldiers of Flowers had than mere Guards. But more attackers were still showing from all directions, and Siwon knew it was only a matter of time until they made it through the defense barrier and into the Bungalow.
“Chief Siwon, protect Your Majesty! I’ll go closer to the battle field and and help your men to slow them down.” Sungmin suddenly said. And before Siwon could do anything to stop him, the Prince had strode forward, his sword in his hands.
The Secretary had run away somewhere in fear and now it was just him and Heechul left. And just like Siwon had predicted before, it didn’t take long before four of the attackers got through at almost the same time and jumped into the Bungalow, quickly surrounding both of them.
The one in the left is the first to strike, followed almost instantly by the other three. Siwon step forward to face the two of them, fully realizing that Heechul would have to take care the rest by himself. But Siwon knew how good Heechul’s sword skill is. He even used to train Siwon in their first years together. And just as Siwon finished taking down those two attackers, Heechul had also done his part.
But more of them were coming. Soon both Siwon and Heechul were busy defending themselves and each other from attacks coming endlessly from unexpected directions. Right at that moment, pulling his sword out of an attacker’s body, Siwon saw another one coming silently and fast from behind Heechul. Knowing Heechul’s hands were too full to realize the danger coming onto him as he was fighting two other attackers at once, Siwon jumped behind his Emperor and held back the attack. However, as he was slashing the man furiously, Siwon failed to see a threat coming from the side. By the time he did, it was already too late because right then he could feel piercing pain on his upper chest right below his shoulder. Looking down, he frowned as he saw an attacker’s sword stabbed deeply into him.
It wasn’t the first time for Siwon, but still the excrutiating pain instantly weakened him. Slashing his attacker with what’s left of his strength, Siwon shouted in frustration. Two of his men seeing that caught up with the situation fast and quickly jumped into the bungalow to help him protecting the Emperor, but still Siwon felt an immense anger to himself. He was definitely too careless and ended up unable to protect Heechul further.
Fallen down to his knees, using his sword to prop his weight, Siwon could hear Heechul shouting his name in worry. A moment later the Emperor had also kneeled down in front of him, forehead creasing, repeatedly asking him if he’s alright. Siwon could only nodded weakly. Looking around, he could see that the number of their attackers had decreased a lot. Only a few left and it wouldn’t take long before his men cornered them to their unavoidable death.
“Tell the guys not to kill all of them. We’ll need at least one of them to be questioned later.” Siwon muttered an order to one of his men at his left side, who nodded and left to do what Siwon asked.
“Save your strength or you’ll bleed even more.” Heechul said sternly, but Siwon could hear his voice trembling. However, Siwon couldn’t bring himself to look at Heechul in the eyes. He felt too ashamed for the state he was currently in.
“...Forgive me, my Prince...” Siwon whispered before his view darkened and he fell unconsciously right onto Heechul’s lap.
TBC
PS: This piece is still for Carey and Robyn. Love ya both, girls. :D