The Quest of Sela [Part III]
Part I | Part II
Yunho stared into the air where JaeJoong just had vanished, a faint 'I love you' ringing in his ears as blue- purple petals fell to the ground.
The hall was filled with silence. Yunho had sunk down to his knees, staring into the void space before him and in him, when all of a sudden a scream broke out of him. Startled, Junsu flinched and immediately held his ears as tears streamed down on their faces silently.
Whereas Yunho pounded into the ground, scraping at the stone beneath him. “You weren't supposed to die. You were to live with me. For eternity and beyond!” He sobbed.
Yoochun hesitated but neared Yunho, placing a hand on his shoulder as he tried to console him. “Come on, Yunho, JaeJoong-” But Yunho immediately shrugged the hand off, getting up in the act.
“Damn you, Park Yoochun!” his voice barked in the emptiness of the hall.
“What I have left of him is those some damn flower petals. Petals, Yoochun!”
“I wouldn't belittle his heritage like this, little Prince, but I wouldn't expect anything else.”
Yunho turned around in a second, about to shred the Gods into pieces, if it hadn't been for Yoochun and Changmin holding him firmly.
“Oh really, then tell me, what worth is his life?”
“The companionship and bonds that this journey brought to you as well as knowledge gained. These are the weapons that many people, especially Demons tend to oversee.”
“Bonds only to be shredded by you!” Yunho barked.
But by then, the shimmering figure had already disappeared again, to rest at last.
Yunho's rage filled the hall once more.
Shortly after, Yunho seemed to have shut down. His face was stoic as he gathered the petals in a pouch and made his way back and Junsu, Yoochun and Changmin followed him.
By now a bridge had formed over the river, mocking their struggle earlier.
Determined, Yunho went to the forest. Yoochun had drawn Junsu to him with one arm, his free hand gripping Changmin's shoulder, in attempt to send some comfort.
“We can't leave him alone now,” Yoochun muttered to the other two.
When Yunho saw Eun-Young, he felt guilty of having her lose her brother once again when they just had reunited. Eun-Young noticed his presence and knew something was wrong when she saw Yunho's blood shot eyes.
“Yunho? What is wrong, where are the others?” By then, the others had arrived and it didn't take long for her to see who was missing.
Her eyes widened with horror when she looked back at Yunho, she stuttered. “JaeJoong...”
“JaeJoong is dead.” Yunho had mounted his horse and took off into the direction of the shack.
They followed Yunho with a gap between them and it was nighttime when they reached the shack.
Feeling indifferent, Yunho took care of Areli automatically. When he turned to leave the stables, his eyes fell on Felix. In his haze, he had totally forgotten over it. Now, Eun-Young had ridden the horse as she had shared a horse with Changmin this morning. Yunho closed his eyes and took a deep breath before opening them.
“Let's get something to drink, when you are done.”
When the rest entered the shack, Yunho had already set out some cups and a flagon with beverage he had found stored in the back of a cupboard.
They sat down and Yunho poured everyone a drink. Looking solemn into his cup, swinging the liquid around in it, he held it up in the air.
“To JaeJoong.”
“To JaeJoong,” everyone joined in union.
Yunho emptied his cup at once and grabbed for the flagon again.
Yoochun worriedly looked at his friend. When Yunho refilled his cup for the third time, just shortly after the other, Yoochun spoke.
“Yunho, do you think this is a good idea? We all mourn for JaeJoong, but we have to keep a cool head, as difficult as it sound, we have to think about what we have to do next!”
Yunho had drunk his fill and scowled at Yoochun.
“Do you see fire raining down outside? Feel the earth shaking? There was nothing, nothing happened, his sacrifice was for nothing and nothing will ever make up for it. The only thing left for me to do is to see the Demons vanish and crush them under my wrath. So what do we have to talk about?”
The silence following was interrupted by Junsu.
“I think I'm on drugs, what's in there?” Junsu asked faintly, rising his cup in question and shaking his head in vain. Their attention were immediately on the Elf.
“Are you a lightweight?” Changmin teased. That was really uncalled for but maybe it would lighten the mood.
Junsu groaned.
“What I meant is I see around everybody a purple-ish color.”
Bothered, Eun-Young felt Junsu's forehead. “Hmm... Your temperature doesn't look to be any higher.”
“So he's a lightweight after all,” Changmin's couldn't stop but glint at having found another weakness of his new found friend.
Junsu moaned once more. “Gosh Yunho, your purple is so dark it gives me the creeps. And Changmin, why are you so,... so pink!”
~Sometimes I’ve wondered if you’re even there
But when I feel far away you meet me there
And like a candle makes a brighter place
This mark you’ve made on me can’t be erased~
When they settled down for the night and everyone fell asleep after feeling exhausted, Yunho lay wide awake in the stables, looking up at the beams. His mind was going around and around, replaying the last moments before JaeJoong disappeared from his life.
The emptiness inside him was killing him. It ate away every second and Yunho knew it would be easy to give in to it. He only had two options: To let this destroy him, allowing himself to be defeated by the Gods or to fight as long as he could to give JaeJoong's death a purpose, at least for so long it took him to know his people were saved.
What would happen afterwards he completed his duty he would see when the moment arose.
However his goal for now was to survive the next day.
When Yunho woke early the next, he started to pack their things. “I can't believe I'm having a hang over,” Junsu groaned behind him.
“Good morning to you too, Junsu,” Yunho said, looking at the Elf.
“Morning. At least you don't look that creepy anymore, just dark rose.” Junsu mumbled.
Yunho frowned. His friend must be really not used to alcohol if he behaved like that. He himself had a slight headache but nothing else. But when Yunho looked close at Junsu, he saw small symbols and dots across his body.
Strange.
Maybe he also had drunk too much last night - or rather sleep deprived, he reasoned with gritted teeth.
Yunho shook his head and continued.
When they sat down for breakfast, which was a silent affair, until they noticed something was different.
Changmin's movements had been slow before but he grabbed what he needed in an average speed. Yoochun looked at him and was astonished at his discovery.
“What?” Changmin asked, annoyed.
“Your eyes - They aren't dim anymore!”
Everyone turned to look at Changmin, and just as Yoochun said, the glaze had left his eyes. They were all shocked, especially Changmin. His vision had provided him with a shadow like picture of his everyday life, always taking a moment to adjust to the situation, but now everything looked crystal clear. He lifted his hand in front of his face and saw it.
“I can see,” Changmin said, feeling overwhelmed.
Eun-Young at once flung her arms around. “Gosh, I can't believe it! You can see!”
They cheered with them.
“Do you think it has something to do with the Gods?” Changmin tried to figure out. He stared at wonder at his surroundings. Everyone went still at once.
“Who knows what the Gods gain from giving a blind man his sight,” Yunho gritted his teeth and left the room hastily.
“And I don't know why everything had just to turn from bright yellow to purple again?” Junsu grumbled.
Yoochun followed Yunho into the stables.
Reaching out for his shoulder, he started. “Yunho, we can't - No!”
“Yoochun, what-”
“You are planning to follow JaeJoong when everything is over,” Yoochun stated with sorrow.
Yunho didn't know how Yoochun could know him this well, but he wouldn't lie to him, so he planned on staying silent, avoiding eye contact. What did he have to live for? What good would come out of it? Changmin might have earned the ability to see, but to what price? He knew Changmin would agree with him that he'd rather be blind than lose JaeJoong.
“You can't do that, Yunho! Your people need you, we need you, and JaeJoong wanted you to live!”
Shaking his head, Yunho tried to explain. “Look, Yoochun, I-”
“We have to leave at once and get to Tekoa,” Junsu interrupted.
“Huh, why?” Yoochun was confused. They had planned to get to the next town available to get the recent news before going back to the Vampire Empire, but Tekoa was a city at the border between the Vampires and Werewolves.
“Because I saw it,” Changmin said, who now had entered the stables too.
“You saw us moving there?” Yunho inquired.
“No, I saw the Demons moving there,” Changmin explained.
Apparently, the Gods hadn't only restored Changmin's sight but also broadened the power of his inner eye. He now not only saw his own life unfolding in front of him, but others as well, although he still hadn't any control over how and when he could get a vision.
They figured that out during their ride as Yoochun made a confession.
“I think, I might have gotten a gift, too.”
Yunho had to turn around to see him better as they continued to ride.
“This morning, when I touched Junsu-” Changmin's 'too much information' in the background was ignored. “- I knew what he was about to do, the same with Yunho.”
“You can read our minds?” Junsu asked incredulously.
Pondering, Yoochun shook his head. “No, I don't think so, I think I can see what they intend to do, not what they think or feel.”
During their journey to Tekoa they didn't avoid villages and cities like they did before but took the shortest way available. After passing the first town, Junsu had noticed after sending a messenger to the Elven Realm, that his hang over had to be something different, as it had been hours since he drank. Also every time he looked at somebody, they had a color hovering around them, ranging from yellow, green to red.
When he took note of his observation, he saw that people who were happy generally seemed to glow in yellow while those who were hostile on the contrary had a rose-red one.
When Junsu voiced his concern, Changmin had an idea. “It looks like you can see the aura of people, what they feel at the very moment.”
Yoochun groaned at the thought, whereas Junsu beamed. He and Junsu wouldn't be able to keep any secrets from each other anymore. The thought had its advantages as well as disadvantages.
By now, they had discovered that somehow every one of them had developed a skill in the last 24 hours.
Yunho knew that the others thought about him, wondering what was sleeping in him. But Yunho didn't have a clue. The strange symbols covering people’s body, all in different shades of red, didn't make sense to him at all. Nonetheless he told the others about it, maybe someone had an idea like they had with Junsu's. Although, they all found it strange, even when Yunho pointed out different places at Changmin's body as an example. They only found out that often the symbols hovered over joints of limbs and organs.
Yunho tried to ignore them, and with every city the traveled through he learned to control it better and better, just as the others tried to control their abilities.
Back at Temple of Consiliua the Hall of the Gods was filled with a blue light, which dimmed quickly.
“Extraordinary. Quite Extraordinary. This never happened before,” the voices of the Gods filled the air.
Feeling exhausted, Yunho laid down on the bed in an inn that they were at staying for the night. They could have reached Tekoa if they continued but it was already late into the night and they were all exhausted, ready to fall off from their mounts.
By now, they had come to know that the Vampires and Werewolves had joined forces in Tekoa and they were planning their next steps. Changmin predicted that his vision wouldn't come true for another day or two, which left them enough time to prepare themselves.
Gibeon had been spared from being run over by the Demons; the messenger had arrived in time and troops had welcomed them in the next towns later. The battle had been hard and there were casualties on both sides, but in the end the Werewolves had outnumbered them, as their troop had only been a small one in comparison to the one that has already crossed Dathan and invaded the Vampire Empire.
Yunho would have to find out about the current situation first but his mind was already thinking about fighting strategies and the likes. He looked forward to seeing the King, his father. He doubted he would tell him everything but his father's presence alone would provide him some comfort, he was sure.
Finally he could feel sleep creeping in, he sighed and feel into a restless sleep.
The next day went as Yunho had predicted- the Vampires in the camp were excited to see him, whereas Yoochun got much recognition from the Werewolves. Yunho hadn't known that the ambassador was so well known among his people. They eyed Changmin with suspicion but the Demon dealt well with it, just as he had with it his whole life.
The King welcomed Yunho with a hug and Yunho enjoyed the firm embrace and the feeling of the strong chest of his father. His father seemed to know that he needed the comfort he provided and he was glad for that. Yunho basked a moment longer in the feeling until he got a hold of himself and notioned to Yoochun and gathered everyone, his father the King, and the King of the Werewolves and other high-ranking individuals.
Yunho and Yoochun filled in and reported every happening that happened while they were away.
Yoochun took over the part of telling what happened in the Gods' Hall since he knew that it would be too hard for Yunho. The King reached for Yunho's shoulder at Yoochun's recounting of Jaejoong's sacrifice and squeezed his shoulder. Yunho was grateful for this silent form of compassion and laid his hand upon the other one, squeezing back in appreciation.
They ended with the Gods' thoughts about companionship and the revelation of their powers. “They were right about the bonds. The joined fear and hatred had brought us together and I hope they see many more things we have in common,” the King of the Werewolves spoke, the others nodded with agreement.
“But let's get down to business. If they are really going to attack at first they most likely will come from...”
The day Yunho had been waiting for since Jaejoong had disappeared from his life, what seemed like years ago, had finally arrived. Today he would spill some Demon blood. Clad in a light armor, he sat on Areli, Changmin and Yoochun stood on both of his sides. Junsu was ordered to stay behind with the other healers who were on standby to tend the injured later. Behind Yunho, the ranks of Vampires, Werewolves and even Elves stood together, prepared for the battle to begin.
Troops from the Realm had met them just in time. Over the horizon, Yunho saw the broad, black lines of the Demons approaching closer and closer as every second went by.
The two Kings stood together but the Vampire King left and joined Yunho instead, signaling Yoochun and Changmin to give them a moment. They nodded in understanding and distanced themselves. This was as much privacy as the two would get.
For a while, they stood next to each other silently, both looking at the Demons striding towards them.
“I'm proud of you, Yunho. You defied everything for the good of our people and I know how painful it was for you when you lost Jaejoong. I would have loved to see him by your side; he would have been good for you and our people. You could have spiraled down but you decided to fight, for him and for us. Never forget his spirit and the people he died for. This way, he'll never die but live on in you, in us.”
They didn’t look at each other but Yunho's breath was audible as it was labored. He fought against the moisture in his eyes and blinked repeatedly.
“Thank you, father.”
His father only nodded and went back to join the others. Changmin and Yoochun joined him soon and Yunho was resolved to win this war with strong determination.
Yunho eyed the only man among the Demons sitting on a white horse- Mee So Lan. At a safe distance, he halted his Troops and went further only with two other riders. The two Kings and Yunho, too, made their way towards them.
It was Yunho's father who spoke first when they came face to face.
“Mee So Lan, this is your last chance for you to leave our countries unscathed.”
Mee So Lan smirked. “And why do you have your troops already prepared if not to harm us?”
“Because your recent actions made us believe we are in need to protect us and our people.”
Mee So Lan openly laughed.
“People who are unworthy to live in such rich countries.” His tone changed. “This country was supposed to be ours and we take back what rightfully belongs to us!”
“Then you will pay for it with your life!” Yunho bit out angrily.
This made Mee So Lan eye him.
“I look forward to crushing you skull, Prince.”
“It will be my pleasure,” Yunho answered and turned around to get back to the troops, followed by the two leaders.
He hadn't even reached his line, when he heard the loud shouts of the Demons. Wiping around, he saw that Mee So Lan had already given the sign to attack, although he still rode back. The Demons ran towards him, standing in front of him like a wall, although this was a moving, massive black wall, rolling onto them.
Yunho hissed an insult.
He cheered Areli on, getting back to the troops.
“Don't let them get this to you! They may shout loud but they know nothing about us. They may have powers that are stronger than our abilities, but they have weaknesses too. Remember to hit their hands and arms in case you can't deliver a fatal blow.”
The next words cost him a lot but they might be true nonetheless. “The Gods are with us, so do not fear.”
With this, he turned Areli around and went to welcome the first wave of attack from the Demons.
The battle had been going on for a while now and Yunho had lost count of how many Demons had met their end on his sword. with his sword. He had abandoned Areli a while ago, to decrease his attack surface, and now he didn't know where Areli was, but he couldn't waste his energy on worrying about his horse as he had to focus on eliminating the Demons and staying alive. He also hadn't seen Changmin and Yoochun lately and he prayed that his friends would be all right in the end.
By now, he had figured out his powers. Whenever he hit the center on the deepest reddish circle symbol, it gave the Demon an immediate fatal injury. Most often the symbol was their heart but if the Demon had an ability, the position varied.
Like now. His opponent was obviously commanding certain elements and therefore he just had beheaded him, and went to the next one. This one had an ax in his hand and Yunho made a quick work by making the Demon to never hold an ax again before going for the kill. He was just about to deliver the blow when a force slapped his sword out of his hand. He rolled to his side immediately, not knowing where the Demon stood who just disarmed him. So far, he had been able to avoid or dodge every Demon who had any kinds of powers. If you moved fast enough, there was a chance a Demon couldn't use his power on you. He grabbed a dagger like weapon that he found on the ground, most likely to have fallen out of a limb hand, and threw it at a certain direction where he thought his attacker would be.
Yunho scrambled to his feet and he found himself face to face with the one who attacked him. His throw had been totally off and now he stood weaponless in front of a Demon with not only a sword in hand but also powers. Yunho tried to kick the sword out of the hand, but the Demon grabbed his ankle and threw him off balance. Yunho hit the ground face first and groaned. He tried to get up but found his wrists tied to the ground by invisible ropes. The Demon had obviously fixed his powers there. He was suddenly turned over, his wrists crossed and aching against the restraints, now facing his enemy.
Apparently, the Demon wanted to look into his eyes, when he would charge at him. He tried to fight against the Demon, however he felt his exhaustion creeping upon him and his will getting weaker. Yunho laid his head down and looked up at the cloudy sky.
So this is it, he scoffed in his thoughts. I'm sorry to disappoint you, Jaejoong, but at least I'll be able to see you soon.
He closed his eyes and waited for the blow to come but instead he felt the warmth of blood.
Yunho immediately opened his eyes and blinked with disbelief at the figure above him, who was standing over the fallen body of the Demon who just had him in his hand and Yunho struggled to get on his feet.
“JaeJoong - wha - how is that even possible?”
“Doesn't matter, it would take too long to explain. Life is too short and I'm sure as hell I'm not going to waste it any longer,” and with these words, JaeJoong lunged forward and pressed his lips against Yunho's. Before Yunho could enjoy the feeling of JaeJoong against him, the latter had taken a step back and smiled mischievously, giving Yunho back his sword.
“Let's kick some ass.”
Feeling like he was able to breath again after being trapped in a body and life too small for him, he followed JaeJoong, swearing to himself not let him out of his eyesight ever again.
Together with Jaejoong, Yunho made his way through the Demons surrounding them. He was filled with a new found power; adrenalin was pumping through his veins as every cell in him chanted at seeing Jaejoong alive. They easily found a rhythm- one would fight in defense, the other with offense, and Yunho would signal Jaejoong where to hit best. It wasn't long before Yunho and Jaejoong had gotten to Mee So Lan, who was engaged in a fight with Yunho's father.
Yunho eyed the situation and became alarmed and tried to warn his father but it was too late- another Demon had crept from behind and pushed his sword through his father's chest. Yunho immediately went to Mee So Lan whereas Jaejoong took after the second Demon.
Mee So Lan tried to deflect him with words whereas Yunho used his distraction to communicate with Jaejoong.
“Ah, here we are, little Princling. Oh, was that your Daddy? I'm sorry for your loss, but as I said, your people is unworthy!” Mee So Lan taunted. “Ready to die?”
“I won't die,” Yunho gritted out as their swords crossed. “I have something you never had.”
“Oh, and what is that?” the Demon laughed as he pressed the sword away. “Something worth living for,” Yunho panted as he defended a blow to his right side, “and a Knight at my side!”
And with that, Jaejoong beheaded the Demon King.
Jaejoong grinned at him and Yunho stole a quick kiss before they got back at work.
In the end, they had defeated the Demon Army. The casualties on their side had been great but when everything was over, one would have never dreamt of seeing scenes where the Werewolves were supporting the injured Vampires and vice versa or Elves healing both Werewolves and Vampires. Everyone was united and Yunho could feel the strong bond of the success that brought the three races together but he was suddenly reminded of the loss of his father, who wasn't able to witness the accomplishment. He felt a silent tear running down his face.
But knowing that he got Jaejoong back at his side helped him tremendously and he was glad that their friends were alive and well.
When everything had settled down the five of them made their way to the royal tent to rest after the eventful day. Junsu took a break from tending the injured in the make shift infirmary tent, seeing that the other healers were capable of taking over during his absence.
Yunho laid his head down on Jaejoong's lap, as he tried to beat his headache. Junsu had already tried to mend it with some herbs but his headache didn’t cease. Yoochun had sat down on Jaejoong's other side; he had been Yunho's hardest competition. Yoochun just recounted his point of view of the battle, as if he had met Jaejoong for a drink when Junsu asked the question everybody had been wondering about.
“Jaejoong, don't get me wrong- it's awesome that you are back with us but what exactly happened?”
Jaejoong sighed, as his glanced from face to face, settling on Yunho's.
“After I went with the Gods-” Which I still haven't forgiven you for, Yunho mumbled, causing Jaejoong to chuckle and Jaejoong to fondly caress his cheek, “I went... somewhere else. I can't really describe it. One moment you know what it is and then the next, you forget. What the Gods didn’t know was that there was a mistake and I can’t die because I still have a life left in me.” Yunho winced at the thought.
Changmin furrowed his eyes in thought. “A life left in you?”
Jaejoong nodded. “Apparently, what Eun-Young said was true. We are only half siblings. We don't share the same mother. I'm not even a full Vampire because my mother was actually a Werecat.”
Silent reigned upon them.
“A Werecat? But- they don't live here anymore, right?”
Jaejoong nodded. “Yes, they don't, but that doesn't mean they don't exist. There aren't many left, as far as I know they live beyond the Dwarf Kingdom. Occasionally, they come here for travels or trade.
They avoided the Werewolves and the Vampires would presume them as Werewolves.”
“And you are still alive because of the nine lives that Werecats have,” Yunho assumed. He didn't know much about Werecats but that was what he remembered when he was fascinated by the thought of having nine lives. A Vampire’s life could go on until infinity after all- theoretically spoken.
Jaejoong nodded. “You never know which traits are passed on but the lives apparently were among them. This explains why I survived my injuries during the Dragon mission. I really died then but I came back.” Yunho winced at the thought.
“What happened after they noticed you had 'life left in you'?” Changmin asked.
“I was restored in the Hall and immediately looked for you at the shack, but I only found Eun-Young. Thank god you left Felix with her. Then I went straight here.”
“So what, you know have 7 lives left?” Junsu asked in wonder.
Jaejoong shook his head.
“No, they told me my sacrifice took all of it and I just had one left to get back.”
Yunho was frightened by the thought. Hadn't it been for the extraordinary heritage of his beloved, he would have been lost forever. Burying his head into Jaejoong's stomach at the thought, he closed his eyes and finally found some needed rest in hopes of escaping the horrors of the last couple of days. So much had happened and his body finally gave in and shut down.
The next couple of days went by in a blur.
With the King gone, Yunho would step up to the corwn, soon. He had to organize the transportation of the injured and deceased and the orderly retreat back to his home. Jaejoong, Yoochun and Junsu as well as his father's advisers did their best in supporting him in every possible way, but it left Yunho exhausted nonetheless and with restless sleep at nights. Changmin had left to fetch Eun-Young from the shack and as it turned out she had been restless and therefore they had met halfway.
When Yunho saw his home city at the outskirts, he never felt this relieved to be home again. Tomorrow he would be crowned and start his duty as a King. He would rather have waited for another 30 years or so but one can't defy fate. He gathered his mother in his arms at their arrival. The Queen had already received the news about the death of her husband and had prepared everything needed in the meantime, allowing the preparation to be a welcoming distraction for her while she waited for their arrival.
Jaejoong took it upon himself to guide Changmin and Eun-Young to their quarters, leaving Yunho and his mother some time to sit together and grief.
“I'm grateful you have Jaejoong back at your side in times like these. You were always so infuriated with him as a child,” the Queen remembered, some mirth in her eyes and a sad smile gracing her lips. “The day you came back from your first lesson with Areli, you didn't talk about being on a horse but about marrying the stable boy.”
Yunho remembered that time fondly. If Areli could talk he probably would have been miffed. He was glad his horse had survived the battle but only a flesh wound that was left to heal.
“Honestly, your father and I always thought you two are meant to be.”
Yunho looked up. When he had talked about Jaejoong his parents had always laughed at his antics, even later when he wouldn't stop saying anything for or against him. To hear these words now out of his mother's mouth...
“How come?”
She shrugged.
“I don't know, maybe the way he swore his life to you when he was only four years old, the way you cared about him after one glance or how you both were so crushed after he didn't make it as your bodyguard. Whereas, he would have made it, without your father's meddling.”
“What?” He heard of this for the first time.
The Queen nodded in reminiscence. “Your father felt that it would be too early for the both of you to spent too much time together when you hadn't proved yourself and made your way yet. So he cheated a bit.”
Yunho had to swallow. His father just knew him too well, still he couldn't feel like something precious had been taken away from him. He couldn't help but be straight forward now.
“So, you won't mind if I ask him to stay by my side, from tomorrow on and forever, right?”
The Queen only gazed at him fondly.
“I wouldn't have it any other way. Have you already prepared the necessities?”
When Yunho showed her, she nodded in approval with a slight smile.
“Good choice, son."
Back in his chambers, Jaejoong was already waiting for him by the balcony.
“Did you slip in behind the guards’ backs or did they let you in by themselves?” Yunho teased when he stood next to him. Jaejoong had the decency to blush slightly, although Yunho saw it more in his actions than in color, as it was fairly dark, even with the moonlight. Yunho braced himself on the railing made of stone and looked down at the city lights beneath him. It would be a long day tomorrow, with the burial of his father first, followed by his coronation. He closed his eyes and let his head hang slightly at the thought.
He reveled in the warmth that Jaejoong provided when the Knight had stepped behind him to embrace him. He remembered himself that there was still one thing left to do and straightened up. Turning around in Jaejoong's arms he looked the other in the eyes. “You are my strength, my guiding light,” he admitted and continued to talk as he saw how Jaejoong wanted to say something. “No, let me finish before the courage I have in me leaves me. You are my rock and my fortress, the love of my life and I would be honored to call you my husband tomorrow and for the rest of our lives. I know, we haven't been together for so long but we have known each other for our whole lives. It won't be easy, as I'm stubborn and an idiot at times, but I guarantee to cherish you in every way possible on this hopefully long journey. I love you. Will you marry me?”
And he pulled out the ring from the pocket of his pants, a ring that he had a professional jeweler make according to his wishes, just days ago. It was of white gold and on top if it sat an imitation of a Jeshimon, with a rose quartz in the middle of it.
Jaejoong stared at him with wonder. He felt as if in trace. When Yunho said tomorrow, he probably meant tomorrow.
“You are everything I ever wished for,” he said and let Yunho slip the ring of his finger in acceptance, happiness radiating from him. When it was at its rightful place, Jaejoong cradled Yunho's face in his hands and pulled him in for a kiss. Yunho encircled Jaejoong's waist and drew him closer, enjoying how their bodies molded perfectly together.
Their kiss grew quite passionately when Jaejoong drew away. With raised eyebrows, Yunho stared at Jaejoong in question.
“As much as I am enjoying this,” Jaejoong said, hands above Yunho's, pulling them from his waist, “the groom isn't supposed to see his groom on the night before the wedding, so good night to you, Yunho~” Yunho couldn't grasp Jaejoong's words as fast as the other had fled from him, leaving him to stand alone on the balcony.
Yunho smiled at the silly antics of his beloved, but groaned nonetheless when he turned restlessly around in his bed later, already missing the warmth of his Knight next to him in bed, when he had grown so used to it in the last couple of days.
The next morning started early and as predicted, sleep came hesitantly over him last night. When Yunho looked at his wardrobe, he groaned because he knew that he would have to change his attire for three times today according to the occasion and grumbled at the thought. For now, he donned his black robes and went to consort his mother to the burial site.
Jaejoong wouldn't be able to stay with him during the ceremony, as etiquette demanded, Yunho didn't even get a glimpse of him when he scanned the people gathered. Yunho had one more reason to detest the rules, like he had so many times during his lessons. He held his mother's hand as he watched the flames burn the man he had looked up to for so many years, leaving nothing of him but ashes.
He then was ushered to change his clothes once more; being crowned with sables on was bad luck and so he found himself back in his rooms. He was startled as two arms embraced him from behind.
“We definitely have to work on your guard, my Lord,” Jaejoong whispered into his ears.
“Jaejoong!,” Yunho gasped.
“I wanted to be with you, but Junsu and Eun-Young insisted that I had to stay away from you until the ceremony. This tradition is really out dated.”
Yunho laughed and enjoyed having Jaejoong in his arms and to smell his fragrance.
“I slept horribly the last night without you. Look at all the bags underneath my eyes!” Yunho exclaimed.
Jaejoong pursed his lips, trying not to laugh. He would store this knowledge to use for at another time. Remembering the time, Jaejoong sighed. “I have to leave now, before they notice my absence. I will see you later.”
And once more, Jaejoong danced out of his arms, but not without giving him a quick perk on his lips.
The coronation ran without any problems and Yunho anticipated the end of it. Eventually it was over and Jaejoong was led to him from the side. He was donned in dark blue tunic, exactly the same color a Jeshimon would be, which sparkled on his finger. The ceremony was a blur to him as his eyes were fixed on Jaejoong the whole time. He managed to say “I do” at the right time and before he knew it, he was able to kiss Jaejoong in front of his people, who all cheered so loudly.
The Queen was the first to congratulate them and embraced him in her fragile arms. “Welcome to the family, son,” she mumbled into his ears. When they drew apart, Jaejoong beamed at her.
The following feast was a joyful event, although the knowledge that they just had buried their King was on everyone's mind. Still, Yunho couldn't remember a time Jaejoong had laughed more than today.
He was talking to Yoochun, sipping his glass of champagne as he decided the day had been long enough. Apologizing to Yoochun, who dismissed him with a knowing glance, he went to get his husband. Jaejoong was currently dancing with Eun-Young, laughing at something she had whispered into his ears.
“My lady, if you would excuse me,” Yunho approached her and took over. “Of course, your majesty,” she teased and bowed slightly. Yunho still found it strange when people called him that, a title he always had associated with his father, but he figured he had to get used to it. As he drew Jaejoong to his chest, dancing with him slowly he whispered into the others ear.
“How about we leave the crowd behind?”
Jaejoong looked up at him and smiled knowingly, his pupil darkening slightly.
They ran through the hall laughing, adrenalin pulsing through their veins as they thought of how they had tried to leave the feast unnoticed. It had been quite the undertaking but with Changmin and Eun-Young's help they had managed to slip out.
Stumbling into their chamber, Jaejoong immediately attacked Yunho's lips, devouring each other hungrily while both tried to free each other from their clothes.
“You got way too many clothes on,” Yunho chided Jaejoong. “You are one to talk,” the other replied, and decided to simply tear Yunho's dress shirt.
They fell onto the bed, laughing, playfully struggling with who would be on top until Jaejoong had Yunho pinned underneath him.
“Got you,” Jaejoong cheered.
“I am at your mercy, King Jaejoong. What are you going to do now?” Yunho grinned challengingly.
“Have my wicked way with you.”
About five years later, the trade between the Elven Realm, the Vampires and Werewolves empires was flourishing and the three countries were about to negotiate an alliance agreement.
Eun-Young and Changmin moved into the Capital to be closer to their family and Yoochun had also decided to settle down there, although he still worked as a Representative for his people when he wasn't teaching new knights their way around wolves. The foreigners were still frowned on at times but seeing other races settling down peacefully, they grew used to them.
Today was a Sunday and the six friends had agreed to meet in the Royal gardens to catch up with each other.
Jaejoong and Yunho had announced they wanted to tell them something and everyone was curious of what that could be.
Junsu and Yoochun met Eun-Young and Changmin at the gazebo, next to a bed full of Jeshimons. Refreshments were already waiting for them and they sat down to talk, when Jaejoong and Yunho rounded the corner, Yunho walking slightly in front of Jaejoong as if to shield him. Furrowing his eyes, Junsu tried to see what was going on.
When they got to the gazebo steps they all gasped.
Nestled in Jaejoong's arms was a bundle of baby with arms twitching out of it, grasping into the air.
Yunho eyes glittered with pride. “Meet Jae Hwa, your future prince.”
Everybody stood up at once to welcome the new member of their family, Junsu laughed his dolphin laugh, as Changmin teased. The Demon still hadn't gotten rid of his fondness of teasing the Elf. They all gathered around the Royal Couple in delight.
As Yunho’s eyes swept over them, coming to a halt at his spouse and child, he felt love fill his heart. He felt his journey had finally come to an end, here with his family, which had been more completed by their recent addition, and Yunho knew that everything would be good.
~I don't know why, it's so hard to swallow our pride
And I don't know how many wrongs make a right.
I don't know the reason.
Sometimes it just feels so good to cry!
And I don't know which way the wind will blow.
But you're here with me.
And that's all I need to know~
Name Meaning:
Areli: Heroic
Maadan: Delight
Mysia: Place of beech trees
Felix: happy
Consiliua: from latin word 'Consilium' - wisdom
Dathan: A well, fountain
Sela: Rock
Gibeon: hill city
Jeshimon: Desert, wildness
Halah: Painful
Tekoa: Pitching of tents
Fun-Facts:
- I wanted to make JJ a half-phoenix at first, making him see visions of YH with a baby, thinking YH would get a wife, but later on it would have been a reborn him. Due to similarities with this amazing HPxDM story I decided to look for sth different
- The blood of other Vampires is an aphrosatikum
- I had already written the whole war scene when I noticed how I never got around to explain YH's gift. Total fail. Had to rewrite it -.-"
- I always told myself 'in another 3-4 pg I'll be finished'. Yeah. Totally -.-"
- Mee So Lan is Lee Soo Man :P
- I enjoyed writing things like 'Thanks to', 'funfacts' or creating headers for the story more than writing it lol
- This is how my writing 'destop' looked like:
Therefore we come to the 'thanks' section now:
I'm entirely grateful for my two betas! I'm blessed with having you two especially when you live in two total different time zones across the world. When one is a sleep the other is awake and I'm stuck between you two lol
au-astronomer who took some of her precious time for my break down and insecurities and made some of my slumps more bearable >_>
girldevil who not only dealt with all my grammar and spelling mistakes but also created the map! Sorry for my empty promises of 'just 8 more pg'. I'll never forget the moment I sent you 22pages at once. My head was literally hitting the desk.
Thanks to Mike- you made me believe this is a great story, even for people who have never heard of the fandom- or mpreg, but who still want to read it, although they aren't even gay =3
And thanks to the following users, who commented on the original post as well as the re-post:
4gtnangel
aisyah_legend
ara_niey
charmaine08
donud
drazen08
dulanis
evangeluv
happy_girl89
jaekyu263
jaerin17
jaeshire_cat
jiyool
kattan69
ladyelhisa
little_passions
marslokaret
mcarol85
mgx2
miszc
mitsui_tsuru
tanya_h24
tardiskeeper
snow_meow
ultamatempa
xzeffirx
yoojiyool
(yes, I totally ordered after the ABC in fear of forgetting somebody *_*)
The italic lyrics belong to Thousand Foot Krutch - going to see this amazing band live in London =3
Did I forget anything?
Ah~ right! The Alternate Ending :P
Here you go, folks!
~ Alternate Ending~
~masterlist~
Btw: anybody interested in a PDF file?
Btw 2: The first one to state their fav. song of the soundtrack gets to request something related to QfS (but for those not being the first- I might indulge you nonetheless :P )
Btw: 3: Does anybody of you watch Teen Wolf (and ship Sterek? =3)
Yunho stared into the air where JaeJoong just had vanished, a faint 'I love you' ringing in his ears as blue- purple petals fell to the ground.
The hall was filled with silence. Yunho had sunk down to his knees, staring into the void space before him and in him, when all of a sudden a scream broke out of him. Startled, Junsu flinched and immediately held his ears as tears streamed down on their faces silently.
Whereas Yunho pounded into the ground, scraping at the stone beneath him. “You weren't supposed to die. You were to live with me. For eternity and beyond!” He sobbed.
Yoochun hesitated but neared Yunho, placing a hand on his shoulder as he tried to console him. “Come on, Yunho, JaeJoong-” But Yunho immediately shrugged the hand off, getting up in the act.
“Damn you, Park Yoochun!” his voice barked in the emptiness of the hall.
“What I have left of him is those some damn flower petals. Petals, Yoochun!”
“I wouldn't belittle his heritage like this, little Prince, but I wouldn't expect anything else.”
Yunho turned around in a second, about to shred the Gods into pieces, if it hadn't been for Yoochun and Changmin holding him firmly.
“Oh really, then tell me, what worth is his life?”
“The companionship and bonds that this journey brought to you as well as knowledge gained. These are the weapons that many people, especially Demons tend to oversee.”
“Bonds only to be shredded by you!” Yunho barked.
But by then, the shimmering figure had already disappeared again, to rest at last.
Yunho's rage filled the hall once more.
Shortly after, Yunho seemed to have shut down. His face was stoic as he gathered the petals in a pouch and made his way back and Junsu, Yoochun and Changmin followed him.
By now a bridge had formed over the river, mocking their struggle earlier.
Determined, Yunho went to the forest. Yoochun had drawn Junsu to him with one arm, his free hand gripping Changmin's shoulder, in attempt to send some comfort.
“We can't leave him alone now,” Yoochun muttered to the other two.
When Yunho saw Eun-Young, he felt guilty of having her lose her brother once again when they just had reunited. Eun-Young noticed his presence and knew something was wrong when she saw Yunho's blood shot eyes.
“Yunho? What is wrong, where are the others?” By then, the others had arrived and it didn't take long for her to see who was missing.
Her eyes widened with horror when she looked back at Yunho, she stuttered. “JaeJoong...”
“JaeJoong is dead.” Yunho had mounted his horse and took off into the direction of the shack.
They followed Yunho with a gap between them and it was nighttime when they reached the shack.
Feeling indifferent, Yunho took care of Areli automatically. When he turned to leave the stables, his eyes fell on Felix. In his haze, he had totally forgotten over it. Now, Eun-Young had ridden the horse as she had shared a horse with Changmin this morning. Yunho closed his eyes and took a deep breath before opening them.
“Let's get something to drink, when you are done.”
When the rest entered the shack, Yunho had already set out some cups and a flagon with beverage he had found stored in the back of a cupboard.
They sat down and Yunho poured everyone a drink. Looking solemn into his cup, swinging the liquid around in it, he held it up in the air.
“To JaeJoong.”
“To JaeJoong,” everyone joined in union.
Yunho emptied his cup at once and grabbed for the flagon again.
Yoochun worriedly looked at his friend. When Yunho refilled his cup for the third time, just shortly after the other, Yoochun spoke.
“Yunho, do you think this is a good idea? We all mourn for JaeJoong, but we have to keep a cool head, as difficult as it sound, we have to think about what we have to do next!”
Yunho had drunk his fill and scowled at Yoochun.
“Do you see fire raining down outside? Feel the earth shaking? There was nothing, nothing happened, his sacrifice was for nothing and nothing will ever make up for it. The only thing left for me to do is to see the Demons vanish and crush them under my wrath. So what do we have to talk about?”
The silence following was interrupted by Junsu.
“I think I'm on drugs, what's in there?” Junsu asked faintly, rising his cup in question and shaking his head in vain. Their attention were immediately on the Elf.
“Are you a lightweight?” Changmin teased. That was really uncalled for but maybe it would lighten the mood.
Junsu groaned.
“What I meant is I see around everybody a purple-ish color.”
Bothered, Eun-Young felt Junsu's forehead. “Hmm... Your temperature doesn't look to be any higher.”
“So he's a lightweight after all,” Changmin's couldn't stop but glint at having found another weakness of his new found friend.
Junsu moaned once more. “Gosh Yunho, your purple is so dark it gives me the creeps. And Changmin, why are you so,... so pink!”
~Sometimes I’ve wondered if you’re even there
But when I feel far away you meet me there
And like a candle makes a brighter place
This mark you’ve made on me can’t be erased~
When they settled down for the night and everyone fell asleep after feeling exhausted, Yunho lay wide awake in the stables, looking up at the beams. His mind was going around and around, replaying the last moments before JaeJoong disappeared from his life.
The emptiness inside him was killing him. It ate away every second and Yunho knew it would be easy to give in to it. He only had two options: To let this destroy him, allowing himself to be defeated by the Gods or to fight as long as he could to give JaeJoong's death a purpose, at least for so long it took him to know his people were saved.
What would happen afterwards he completed his duty he would see when the moment arose.
However his goal for now was to survive the next day.
When Yunho woke early the next, he started to pack their things. “I can't believe I'm having a hang over,” Junsu groaned behind him.
“Good morning to you too, Junsu,” Yunho said, looking at the Elf.
“Morning. At least you don't look that creepy anymore, just dark rose.” Junsu mumbled.
Yunho frowned. His friend must be really not used to alcohol if he behaved like that. He himself had a slight headache but nothing else. But when Yunho looked close at Junsu, he saw small symbols and dots across his body.
Strange.
Maybe he also had drunk too much last night - or rather sleep deprived, he reasoned with gritted teeth.
Yunho shook his head and continued.
When they sat down for breakfast, which was a silent affair, until they noticed something was different.
Changmin's movements had been slow before but he grabbed what he needed in an average speed. Yoochun looked at him and was astonished at his discovery.
“What?” Changmin asked, annoyed.
“Your eyes - They aren't dim anymore!”
Everyone turned to look at Changmin, and just as Yoochun said, the glaze had left his eyes. They were all shocked, especially Changmin. His vision had provided him with a shadow like picture of his everyday life, always taking a moment to adjust to the situation, but now everything looked crystal clear. He lifted his hand in front of his face and saw it.
“I can see,” Changmin said, feeling overwhelmed.
Eun-Young at once flung her arms around. “Gosh, I can't believe it! You can see!”
They cheered with them.
“Do you think it has something to do with the Gods?” Changmin tried to figure out. He stared at wonder at his surroundings. Everyone went still at once.
“Who knows what the Gods gain from giving a blind man his sight,” Yunho gritted his teeth and left the room hastily.
“And I don't know why everything had just to turn from bright yellow to purple again?” Junsu grumbled.
Yoochun followed Yunho into the stables.
Reaching out for his shoulder, he started. “Yunho, we can't - No!”
“Yoochun, what-”
“You are planning to follow JaeJoong when everything is over,” Yoochun stated with sorrow.
Yunho didn't know how Yoochun could know him this well, but he wouldn't lie to him, so he planned on staying silent, avoiding eye contact. What did he have to live for? What good would come out of it? Changmin might have earned the ability to see, but to what price? He knew Changmin would agree with him that he'd rather be blind than lose JaeJoong.
“You can't do that, Yunho! Your people need you, we need you, and JaeJoong wanted you to live!”
Shaking his head, Yunho tried to explain. “Look, Yoochun, I-”
“We have to leave at once and get to Tekoa,” Junsu interrupted.
“Huh, why?” Yoochun was confused. They had planned to get to the next town available to get the recent news before going back to the Vampire Empire, but Tekoa was a city at the border between the Vampires and Werewolves.
“Because I saw it,” Changmin said, who now had entered the stables too.
“You saw us moving there?” Yunho inquired.
“No, I saw the Demons moving there,” Changmin explained.
Apparently, the Gods hadn't only restored Changmin's sight but also broadened the power of his inner eye. He now not only saw his own life unfolding in front of him, but others as well, although he still hadn't any control over how and when he could get a vision.
They figured that out during their ride as Yoochun made a confession.
“I think, I might have gotten a gift, too.”
Yunho had to turn around to see him better as they continued to ride.
“This morning, when I touched Junsu-” Changmin's 'too much information' in the background was ignored. “- I knew what he was about to do, the same with Yunho.”
“You can read our minds?” Junsu asked incredulously.
Pondering, Yoochun shook his head. “No, I don't think so, I think I can see what they intend to do, not what they think or feel.”
During their journey to Tekoa they didn't avoid villages and cities like they did before but took the shortest way available. After passing the first town, Junsu had noticed after sending a messenger to the Elven Realm, that his hang over had to be something different, as it had been hours since he drank. Also every time he looked at somebody, they had a color hovering around them, ranging from yellow, green to red.
When he took note of his observation, he saw that people who were happy generally seemed to glow in yellow while those who were hostile on the contrary had a rose-red one.
When Junsu voiced his concern, Changmin had an idea. “It looks like you can see the aura of people, what they feel at the very moment.”
Yoochun groaned at the thought, whereas Junsu beamed. He and Junsu wouldn't be able to keep any secrets from each other anymore. The thought had its advantages as well as disadvantages.
By now, they had discovered that somehow every one of them had developed a skill in the last 24 hours.
Yunho knew that the others thought about him, wondering what was sleeping in him. But Yunho didn't have a clue. The strange symbols covering people’s body, all in different shades of red, didn't make sense to him at all. Nonetheless he told the others about it, maybe someone had an idea like they had with Junsu's. Although, they all found it strange, even when Yunho pointed out different places at Changmin's body as an example. They only found out that often the symbols hovered over joints of limbs and organs.
Yunho tried to ignore them, and with every city the traveled through he learned to control it better and better, just as the others tried to control their abilities.
Back at Temple of Consiliua the Hall of the Gods was filled with a blue light, which dimmed quickly.
“Extraordinary. Quite Extraordinary. This never happened before,” the voices of the Gods filled the air.
Feeling exhausted, Yunho laid down on the bed in an inn that they were at staying for the night. They could have reached Tekoa if they continued but it was already late into the night and they were all exhausted, ready to fall off from their mounts.
By now, they had come to know that the Vampires and Werewolves had joined forces in Tekoa and they were planning their next steps. Changmin predicted that his vision wouldn't come true for another day or two, which left them enough time to prepare themselves.
Gibeon had been spared from being run over by the Demons; the messenger had arrived in time and troops had welcomed them in the next towns later. The battle had been hard and there were casualties on both sides, but in the end the Werewolves had outnumbered them, as their troop had only been a small one in comparison to the one that has already crossed Dathan and invaded the Vampire Empire.
Yunho would have to find out about the current situation first but his mind was already thinking about fighting strategies and the likes. He looked forward to seeing the King, his father. He doubted he would tell him everything but his father's presence alone would provide him some comfort, he was sure.
Finally he could feel sleep creeping in, he sighed and feel into a restless sleep.
The next day went as Yunho had predicted- the Vampires in the camp were excited to see him, whereas Yoochun got much recognition from the Werewolves. Yunho hadn't known that the ambassador was so well known among his people. They eyed Changmin with suspicion but the Demon dealt well with it, just as he had with it his whole life.
The King welcomed Yunho with a hug and Yunho enjoyed the firm embrace and the feeling of the strong chest of his father. His father seemed to know that he needed the comfort he provided and he was glad for that. Yunho basked a moment longer in the feeling until he got a hold of himself and notioned to Yoochun and gathered everyone, his father the King, and the King of the Werewolves and other high-ranking individuals.
Yunho and Yoochun filled in and reported every happening that happened while they were away.
Yoochun took over the part of telling what happened in the Gods' Hall since he knew that it would be too hard for Yunho. The King reached for Yunho's shoulder at Yoochun's recounting of Jaejoong's sacrifice and squeezed his shoulder. Yunho was grateful for this silent form of compassion and laid his hand upon the other one, squeezing back in appreciation.
They ended with the Gods' thoughts about companionship and the revelation of their powers. “They were right about the bonds. The joined fear and hatred had brought us together and I hope they see many more things we have in common,” the King of the Werewolves spoke, the others nodded with agreement.
“But let's get down to business. If they are really going to attack at first they most likely will come from...”
The day Yunho had been waiting for since Jaejoong had disappeared from his life, what seemed like years ago, had finally arrived. Today he would spill some Demon blood. Clad in a light armor, he sat on Areli, Changmin and Yoochun stood on both of his sides. Junsu was ordered to stay behind with the other healers who were on standby to tend the injured later. Behind Yunho, the ranks of Vampires, Werewolves and even Elves stood together, prepared for the battle to begin.
Troops from the Realm had met them just in time. Over the horizon, Yunho saw the broad, black lines of the Demons approaching closer and closer as every second went by.
The two Kings stood together but the Vampire King left and joined Yunho instead, signaling Yoochun and Changmin to give them a moment. They nodded in understanding and distanced themselves. This was as much privacy as the two would get.
For a while, they stood next to each other silently, both looking at the Demons striding towards them.
“I'm proud of you, Yunho. You defied everything for the good of our people and I know how painful it was for you when you lost Jaejoong. I would have loved to see him by your side; he would have been good for you and our people. You could have spiraled down but you decided to fight, for him and for us. Never forget his spirit and the people he died for. This way, he'll never die but live on in you, in us.”
They didn’t look at each other but Yunho's breath was audible as it was labored. He fought against the moisture in his eyes and blinked repeatedly.
“Thank you, father.”
His father only nodded and went back to join the others. Changmin and Yoochun joined him soon and Yunho was resolved to win this war with strong determination.
Yunho eyed the only man among the Demons sitting on a white horse- Mee So Lan. At a safe distance, he halted his Troops and went further only with two other riders. The two Kings and Yunho, too, made their way towards them.
It was Yunho's father who spoke first when they came face to face.
“Mee So Lan, this is your last chance for you to leave our countries unscathed.”
Mee So Lan smirked. “And why do you have your troops already prepared if not to harm us?”
“Because your recent actions made us believe we are in need to protect us and our people.”
Mee So Lan openly laughed.
“People who are unworthy to live in such rich countries.” His tone changed. “This country was supposed to be ours and we take back what rightfully belongs to us!”
“Then you will pay for it with your life!” Yunho bit out angrily.
This made Mee So Lan eye him.
“I look forward to crushing you skull, Prince.”
“It will be my pleasure,” Yunho answered and turned around to get back to the troops, followed by the two leaders.
He hadn't even reached his line, when he heard the loud shouts of the Demons. Wiping around, he saw that Mee So Lan had already given the sign to attack, although he still rode back. The Demons ran towards him, standing in front of him like a wall, although this was a moving, massive black wall, rolling onto them.
Yunho hissed an insult.
He cheered Areli on, getting back to the troops.
“Don't let them get this to you! They may shout loud but they know nothing about us. They may have powers that are stronger than our abilities, but they have weaknesses too. Remember to hit their hands and arms in case you can't deliver a fatal blow.”
The next words cost him a lot but they might be true nonetheless. “The Gods are with us, so do not fear.”
With this, he turned Areli around and went to welcome the first wave of attack from the Demons.
The battle had been going on for a while now and Yunho had lost count of how many Demons had met their end on his sword. with his sword. He had abandoned Areli a while ago, to decrease his attack surface, and now he didn't know where Areli was, but he couldn't waste his energy on worrying about his horse as he had to focus on eliminating the Demons and staying alive. He also hadn't seen Changmin and Yoochun lately and he prayed that his friends would be all right in the end.
By now, he had figured out his powers. Whenever he hit the center on the deepest reddish circle symbol, it gave the Demon an immediate fatal injury. Most often the symbol was their heart but if the Demon had an ability, the position varied.
Like now. His opponent was obviously commanding certain elements and therefore he just had beheaded him, and went to the next one. This one had an ax in his hand and Yunho made a quick work by making the Demon to never hold an ax again before going for the kill. He was just about to deliver the blow when a force slapped his sword out of his hand. He rolled to his side immediately, not knowing where the Demon stood who just disarmed him. So far, he had been able to avoid or dodge every Demon who had any kinds of powers. If you moved fast enough, there was a chance a Demon couldn't use his power on you. He grabbed a dagger like weapon that he found on the ground, most likely to have fallen out of a limb hand, and threw it at a certain direction where he thought his attacker would be.
Yunho scrambled to his feet and he found himself face to face with the one who attacked him. His throw had been totally off and now he stood weaponless in front of a Demon with not only a sword in hand but also powers. Yunho tried to kick the sword out of the hand, but the Demon grabbed his ankle and threw him off balance. Yunho hit the ground face first and groaned. He tried to get up but found his wrists tied to the ground by invisible ropes. The Demon had obviously fixed his powers there. He was suddenly turned over, his wrists crossed and aching against the restraints, now facing his enemy.
Apparently, the Demon wanted to look into his eyes, when he would charge at him. He tried to fight against the Demon, however he felt his exhaustion creeping upon him and his will getting weaker. Yunho laid his head down and looked up at the cloudy sky.
So this is it, he scoffed in his thoughts. I'm sorry to disappoint you, Jaejoong, but at least I'll be able to see you soon.
He closed his eyes and waited for the blow to come but instead he felt the warmth of blood.
Yunho immediately opened his eyes and blinked with disbelief at the figure above him, who was standing over the fallen body of the Demon who just had him in his hand and Yunho struggled to get on his feet.
“JaeJoong - wha - how is that even possible?”
“Doesn't matter, it would take too long to explain. Life is too short and I'm sure as hell I'm not going to waste it any longer,” and with these words, JaeJoong lunged forward and pressed his lips against Yunho's. Before Yunho could enjoy the feeling of JaeJoong against him, the latter had taken a step back and smiled mischievously, giving Yunho back his sword.
“Let's kick some ass.”
Feeling like he was able to breath again after being trapped in a body and life too small for him, he followed JaeJoong, swearing to himself not let him out of his eyesight ever again.
Together with Jaejoong, Yunho made his way through the Demons surrounding them. He was filled with a new found power; adrenalin was pumping through his veins as every cell in him chanted at seeing Jaejoong alive. They easily found a rhythm- one would fight in defense, the other with offense, and Yunho would signal Jaejoong where to hit best. It wasn't long before Yunho and Jaejoong had gotten to Mee So Lan, who was engaged in a fight with Yunho's father.
Yunho eyed the situation and became alarmed and tried to warn his father but it was too late- another Demon had crept from behind and pushed his sword through his father's chest. Yunho immediately went to Mee So Lan whereas Jaejoong took after the second Demon.
Mee So Lan tried to deflect him with words whereas Yunho used his distraction to communicate with Jaejoong.
“Ah, here we are, little Princling. Oh, was that your Daddy? I'm sorry for your loss, but as I said, your people is unworthy!” Mee So Lan taunted. “Ready to die?”
“I won't die,” Yunho gritted out as their swords crossed. “I have something you never had.”
“Oh, and what is that?” the Demon laughed as he pressed the sword away. “Something worth living for,” Yunho panted as he defended a blow to his right side, “and a Knight at my side!”
And with that, Jaejoong beheaded the Demon King.
Jaejoong grinned at him and Yunho stole a quick kiss before they got back at work.
In the end, they had defeated the Demon Army. The casualties on their side had been great but when everything was over, one would have never dreamt of seeing scenes where the Werewolves were supporting the injured Vampires and vice versa or Elves healing both Werewolves and Vampires. Everyone was united and Yunho could feel the strong bond of the success that brought the three races together but he was suddenly reminded of the loss of his father, who wasn't able to witness the accomplishment. He felt a silent tear running down his face.
But knowing that he got Jaejoong back at his side helped him tremendously and he was glad that their friends were alive and well.
When everything had settled down the five of them made their way to the royal tent to rest after the eventful day. Junsu took a break from tending the injured in the make shift infirmary tent, seeing that the other healers were capable of taking over during his absence.
Yunho laid his head down on Jaejoong's lap, as he tried to beat his headache. Junsu had already tried to mend it with some herbs but his headache didn’t cease. Yoochun had sat down on Jaejoong's other side; he had been Yunho's hardest competition. Yoochun just recounted his point of view of the battle, as if he had met Jaejoong for a drink when Junsu asked the question everybody had been wondering about.
“Jaejoong, don't get me wrong- it's awesome that you are back with us but what exactly happened?”
Jaejoong sighed, as his glanced from face to face, settling on Yunho's.
“After I went with the Gods-” Which I still haven't forgiven you for, Yunho mumbled, causing Jaejoong to chuckle and Jaejoong to fondly caress his cheek, “I went... somewhere else. I can't really describe it. One moment you know what it is and then the next, you forget. What the Gods didn’t know was that there was a mistake and I can’t die because I still have a life left in me.” Yunho winced at the thought.
Changmin furrowed his eyes in thought. “A life left in you?”
Jaejoong nodded. “Apparently, what Eun-Young said was true. We are only half siblings. We don't share the same mother. I'm not even a full Vampire because my mother was actually a Werecat.”
Silent reigned upon them.
“A Werecat? But- they don't live here anymore, right?”
Jaejoong nodded. “Yes, they don't, but that doesn't mean they don't exist. There aren't many left, as far as I know they live beyond the Dwarf Kingdom. Occasionally, they come here for travels or trade.
They avoided the Werewolves and the Vampires would presume them as Werewolves.”
“And you are still alive because of the nine lives that Werecats have,” Yunho assumed. He didn't know much about Werecats but that was what he remembered when he was fascinated by the thought of having nine lives. A Vampire’s life could go on until infinity after all- theoretically spoken.
Jaejoong nodded. “You never know which traits are passed on but the lives apparently were among them. This explains why I survived my injuries during the Dragon mission. I really died then but I came back.” Yunho winced at the thought.
“What happened after they noticed you had 'life left in you'?” Changmin asked.
“I was restored in the Hall and immediately looked for you at the shack, but I only found Eun-Young. Thank god you left Felix with her. Then I went straight here.”
“So what, you know have 7 lives left?” Junsu asked in wonder.
Jaejoong shook his head.
“No, they told me my sacrifice took all of it and I just had one left to get back.”
Yunho was frightened by the thought. Hadn't it been for the extraordinary heritage of his beloved, he would have been lost forever. Burying his head into Jaejoong's stomach at the thought, he closed his eyes and finally found some needed rest in hopes of escaping the horrors of the last couple of days. So much had happened and his body finally gave in and shut down.
The next couple of days went by in a blur.
With the King gone, Yunho would step up to the corwn, soon. He had to organize the transportation of the injured and deceased and the orderly retreat back to his home. Jaejoong, Yoochun and Junsu as well as his father's advisers did their best in supporting him in every possible way, but it left Yunho exhausted nonetheless and with restless sleep at nights. Changmin had left to fetch Eun-Young from the shack and as it turned out she had been restless and therefore they had met halfway.
When Yunho saw his home city at the outskirts, he never felt this relieved to be home again. Tomorrow he would be crowned and start his duty as a King. He would rather have waited for another 30 years or so but one can't defy fate. He gathered his mother in his arms at their arrival. The Queen had already received the news about the death of her husband and had prepared everything needed in the meantime, allowing the preparation to be a welcoming distraction for her while she waited for their arrival.
Jaejoong took it upon himself to guide Changmin and Eun-Young to their quarters, leaving Yunho and his mother some time to sit together and grief.
“I'm grateful you have Jaejoong back at your side in times like these. You were always so infuriated with him as a child,” the Queen remembered, some mirth in her eyes and a sad smile gracing her lips. “The day you came back from your first lesson with Areli, you didn't talk about being on a horse but about marrying the stable boy.”
Yunho remembered that time fondly. If Areli could talk he probably would have been miffed. He was glad his horse had survived the battle but only a flesh wound that was left to heal.
“Honestly, your father and I always thought you two are meant to be.”
Yunho looked up. When he had talked about Jaejoong his parents had always laughed at his antics, even later when he wouldn't stop saying anything for or against him. To hear these words now out of his mother's mouth...
“How come?”
She shrugged.
“I don't know, maybe the way he swore his life to you when he was only four years old, the way you cared about him after one glance or how you both were so crushed after he didn't make it as your bodyguard. Whereas, he would have made it, without your father's meddling.”
“What?” He heard of this for the first time.
The Queen nodded in reminiscence. “Your father felt that it would be too early for the both of you to spent too much time together when you hadn't proved yourself and made your way yet. So he cheated a bit.”
Yunho had to swallow. His father just knew him too well, still he couldn't feel like something precious had been taken away from him. He couldn't help but be straight forward now.
“So, you won't mind if I ask him to stay by my side, from tomorrow on and forever, right?”
The Queen only gazed at him fondly.
“I wouldn't have it any other way. Have you already prepared the necessities?”
When Yunho showed her, she nodded in approval with a slight smile.
“Good choice, son."
Back in his chambers, Jaejoong was already waiting for him by the balcony.
“Did you slip in behind the guards’ backs or did they let you in by themselves?” Yunho teased when he stood next to him. Jaejoong had the decency to blush slightly, although Yunho saw it more in his actions than in color, as it was fairly dark, even with the moonlight. Yunho braced himself on the railing made of stone and looked down at the city lights beneath him. It would be a long day tomorrow, with the burial of his father first, followed by his coronation. He closed his eyes and let his head hang slightly at the thought.
He reveled in the warmth that Jaejoong provided when the Knight had stepped behind him to embrace him. He remembered himself that there was still one thing left to do and straightened up. Turning around in Jaejoong's arms he looked the other in the eyes. “You are my strength, my guiding light,” he admitted and continued to talk as he saw how Jaejoong wanted to say something. “No, let me finish before the courage I have in me leaves me. You are my rock and my fortress, the love of my life and I would be honored to call you my husband tomorrow and for the rest of our lives. I know, we haven't been together for so long but we have known each other for our whole lives. It won't be easy, as I'm stubborn and an idiot at times, but I guarantee to cherish you in every way possible on this hopefully long journey. I love you. Will you marry me?”
And he pulled out the ring from the pocket of his pants, a ring that he had a professional jeweler make according to his wishes, just days ago. It was of white gold and on top if it sat an imitation of a Jeshimon, with a rose quartz in the middle of it.
Jaejoong stared at him with wonder. He felt as if in trace. When Yunho said tomorrow, he probably meant tomorrow.
“You are everything I ever wished for,” he said and let Yunho slip the ring of his finger in acceptance, happiness radiating from him. When it was at its rightful place, Jaejoong cradled Yunho's face in his hands and pulled him in for a kiss. Yunho encircled Jaejoong's waist and drew him closer, enjoying how their bodies molded perfectly together.
Their kiss grew quite passionately when Jaejoong drew away. With raised eyebrows, Yunho stared at Jaejoong in question.
“As much as I am enjoying this,” Jaejoong said, hands above Yunho's, pulling them from his waist, “the groom isn't supposed to see his groom on the night before the wedding, so good night to you, Yunho~” Yunho couldn't grasp Jaejoong's words as fast as the other had fled from him, leaving him to stand alone on the balcony.
Yunho smiled at the silly antics of his beloved, but groaned nonetheless when he turned restlessly around in his bed later, already missing the warmth of his Knight next to him in bed, when he had grown so used to it in the last couple of days.
The next morning started early and as predicted, sleep came hesitantly over him last night. When Yunho looked at his wardrobe, he groaned because he knew that he would have to change his attire for three times today according to the occasion and grumbled at the thought. For now, he donned his black robes and went to consort his mother to the burial site.
Jaejoong wouldn't be able to stay with him during the ceremony, as etiquette demanded, Yunho didn't even get a glimpse of him when he scanned the people gathered. Yunho had one more reason to detest the rules, like he had so many times during his lessons. He held his mother's hand as he watched the flames burn the man he had looked up to for so many years, leaving nothing of him but ashes.
He then was ushered to change his clothes once more; being crowned with sables on was bad luck and so he found himself back in his rooms. He was startled as two arms embraced him from behind.
“We definitely have to work on your guard, my Lord,” Jaejoong whispered into his ears.
“Jaejoong!,” Yunho gasped.
“I wanted to be with you, but Junsu and Eun-Young insisted that I had to stay away from you until the ceremony. This tradition is really out dated.”
Yunho laughed and enjoyed having Jaejoong in his arms and to smell his fragrance.
“I slept horribly the last night without you. Look at all the bags underneath my eyes!” Yunho exclaimed.
Jaejoong pursed his lips, trying not to laugh. He would store this knowledge to use for at another time. Remembering the time, Jaejoong sighed. “I have to leave now, before they notice my absence. I will see you later.”
And once more, Jaejoong danced out of his arms, but not without giving him a quick perk on his lips.
The coronation ran without any problems and Yunho anticipated the end of it. Eventually it was over and Jaejoong was led to him from the side. He was donned in dark blue tunic, exactly the same color a Jeshimon would be, which sparkled on his finger. The ceremony was a blur to him as his eyes were fixed on Jaejoong the whole time. He managed to say “I do” at the right time and before he knew it, he was able to kiss Jaejoong in front of his people, who all cheered so loudly.
The Queen was the first to congratulate them and embraced him in her fragile arms. “Welcome to the family, son,” she mumbled into his ears. When they drew apart, Jaejoong beamed at her.
The following feast was a joyful event, although the knowledge that they just had buried their King was on everyone's mind. Still, Yunho couldn't remember a time Jaejoong had laughed more than today.
He was talking to Yoochun, sipping his glass of champagne as he decided the day had been long enough. Apologizing to Yoochun, who dismissed him with a knowing glance, he went to get his husband. Jaejoong was currently dancing with Eun-Young, laughing at something she had whispered into his ears.
“My lady, if you would excuse me,” Yunho approached her and took over. “Of course, your majesty,” she teased and bowed slightly. Yunho still found it strange when people called him that, a title he always had associated with his father, but he figured he had to get used to it. As he drew Jaejoong to his chest, dancing with him slowly he whispered into the others ear.
“How about we leave the crowd behind?”
Jaejoong looked up at him and smiled knowingly, his pupil darkening slightly.
They ran through the hall laughing, adrenalin pulsing through their veins as they thought of how they had tried to leave the feast unnoticed. It had been quite the undertaking but with Changmin and Eun-Young's help they had managed to slip out.
Stumbling into their chamber, Jaejoong immediately attacked Yunho's lips, devouring each other hungrily while both tried to free each other from their clothes.
“You got way too many clothes on,” Yunho chided Jaejoong. “You are one to talk,” the other replied, and decided to simply tear Yunho's dress shirt.
They fell onto the bed, laughing, playfully struggling with who would be on top until Jaejoong had Yunho pinned underneath him.
“Got you,” Jaejoong cheered.
“I am at your mercy, King Jaejoong. What are you going to do now?” Yunho grinned challengingly.
“Have my wicked way with you.”
About five years later, the trade between the Elven Realm, the Vampires and Werewolves empires was flourishing and the three countries were about to negotiate an alliance agreement.
Eun-Young and Changmin moved into the Capital to be closer to their family and Yoochun had also decided to settle down there, although he still worked as a Representative for his people when he wasn't teaching new knights their way around wolves. The foreigners were still frowned on at times but seeing other races settling down peacefully, they grew used to them.
Today was a Sunday and the six friends had agreed to meet in the Royal gardens to catch up with each other.
Jaejoong and Yunho had announced they wanted to tell them something and everyone was curious of what that could be.
Junsu and Yoochun met Eun-Young and Changmin at the gazebo, next to a bed full of Jeshimons. Refreshments were already waiting for them and they sat down to talk, when Jaejoong and Yunho rounded the corner, Yunho walking slightly in front of Jaejoong as if to shield him. Furrowing his eyes, Junsu tried to see what was going on.
When they got to the gazebo steps they all gasped.
Nestled in Jaejoong's arms was a bundle of baby with arms twitching out of it, grasping into the air.
Yunho eyes glittered with pride. “Meet Jae Hwa, your future prince.”
Everybody stood up at once to welcome the new member of their family, Junsu laughed his dolphin laugh, as Changmin teased. The Demon still hadn't gotten rid of his fondness of teasing the Elf. They all gathered around the Royal Couple in delight.
As Yunho’s eyes swept over them, coming to a halt at his spouse and child, he felt love fill his heart. He felt his journey had finally come to an end, here with his family, which had been more completed by their recent addition, and Yunho knew that everything would be good.
~I don't know why, it's so hard to swallow our pride
And I don't know how many wrongs make a right.
I don't know the reason.
Sometimes it just feels so good to cry!
And I don't know which way the wind will blow.
But you're here with me.
And that's all I need to know~
Name Meaning:
Areli: Heroic
Maadan: Delight
Mysia: Place of beech trees
Felix: happy
Consiliua: from latin word 'Consilium' - wisdom
Dathan: A well, fountain
Sela: Rock
Gibeon: hill city
Jeshimon: Desert, wildness
Halah: Painful
Tekoa: Pitching of tents
Fun-Facts:
- I wanted to make JJ a half-phoenix at first, making him see visions of YH with a baby, thinking YH would get a wife, but later on it would have been a reborn him. Due to similarities with this amazing HPxDM story I decided to look for sth different
- The blood of other Vampires is an aphrosatikum
- I had already written the whole war scene when I noticed how I never got around to explain YH's gift. Total fail. Had to rewrite it -.-"
- I always told myself 'in another 3-4 pg I'll be finished'. Yeah. Totally -.-"
- Mee So Lan is Lee Soo Man :P
- I enjoyed writing things like 'Thanks to', 'funfacts' or creating headers for the story more than writing it lol
- This is how my writing 'destop' looked like:
Therefore we come to the 'thanks' section now:
I'm entirely grateful for my two betas! I'm blessed with having you two especially when you live in two total different time zones across the world. When one is a sleep the other is awake and I'm stuck between you two lol
au-astronomer who took some of her precious time for my break down and insecurities and made some of my slumps more bearable >_>
girldevil who not only dealt with all my grammar and spelling mistakes but also created the map! Sorry for my empty promises of 'just 8 more pg'. I'll never forget the moment I sent you 22pages at once. My head was literally hitting the desk.
Thanks to Mike- you made me believe this is a great story, even for people who have never heard of the fandom- or mpreg, but who still want to read it, although they aren't even gay =3
And thanks to the following users, who commented on the original post as well as the re-post:
4gtnangel
aisyah_legend
ara_niey
charmaine08
donud
drazen08
dulanis
evangeluv
happy_girl89
jaekyu263
jaerin17
jaeshire_cat
jiyool
kattan69
ladyelhisa
little_passions
marslokaret
mcarol85
mgx2
miszc
mitsui_tsuru
tanya_h24
tardiskeeper
snow_meow
ultamatempa
xzeffirx
yoojiyool
(yes, I totally ordered after the ABC in fear of forgetting somebody *_*)
The italic lyrics belong to Thousand Foot Krutch - going to see this amazing band live in London =3
Did I forget anything?
Ah~ right! The Alternate Ending :P
Here you go, folks!
~ Alternate Ending~
~masterlist~
Btw: anybody interested in a PDF file?
Btw 2: The first one to state their fav. song of the soundtrack gets to request something related to QfS (but for those not being the first- I might indulge you nonetheless :P )
Btw: 3: Does anybody of you watch Teen Wolf (and ship Sterek? =3)