A Game of Masks Chapter 8
Title: A Game of Masks
Pairings: Super Junior Members + OCs
Rating: PG-13 for violence
Notes: Character death, Medieval/Fantasy AU, occasional crack
Summary: Magic, intrigue and secrets abound in and around the king's court. While everyone has something to hide, some have more than others. Who has the biggest secret and will it end up tearing the kingdom apart?
Lord Siwon and King Kangin sat next to each other in quiet contemplation. “So what do you think of the Formosian ambassador?” Siwon asked.
The king looked thoughtful for a moment before answering, “I’m not quite sure. There’s nothing about him that makes me outright distrust him, but there’s something that is making me uneasy. What it is, I just can’t put my finger on. What are your impressions?”
“Similar to yours, I guess. You know I want to believe the best of everyone. The timing of this visit and the unusually large number of nobility that came gives me pause, though. Amelie has met the ambassador’s wife, Lady Brinny-chan, and was quite impressed with her. Apparently the lady was born on the Isle of Syla and was married to the ambassador for political reasons. Her story sounds very similar to the queen’s.”
Kangin frowned slightly at the mention of his wife, but nodded in agreement. “She’s found it difficult to make friends.” Not that she’s put in that huge of an effort. To be honest, though, there was a part of Kangin that admired Jagroop for not compromising and staying true to her beliefs, even in the face of rejection. That part yearned for Kangin’s own freedom; for him to cast aside all the expectations others, especially his mother and grandmother, had for him. Once again, his training and upbringing asserted itself, making him shove those desires into the far recesses of his heart. “I know Jagroop appreciates your wife’s friendliness and quiet support,” the king continued.
“Amelie tries her best. She and I both feel bad that she’s been unable to become close friends with Jagroop. As friendly as my wife is, she finds it hard to buck societal norms too much.”
“Please don’t worry yourselves,” Kangin said, giving Siwon one of his rare smiles. “You’ve been my best friend since childhood; having you by my side is the greatest gift you could ever give me. Unlike what’s written in the stories, the wives of best friends don’t have to be close friends. As long as they don’t hate each other or want to rip each other’s hair out each time they see one another, I’m content.” Siwon laughed but felt a twinge of guilt.
Kangin smiled again then said, “As much as I’d love to sit here and chat with you, it’s time for me to get ready for the blasted ball tonight. No doubt your lovely wife is elbow-deep in preparations and wondering where you are. I’m not sure what planets aligned themselves, but I convinced Jagroop to actually wear a dress tonight.”
Siwon’s eyebrows shot up and his expressive face clearly showed his surprise. “I think this is the first time since your wedding. Are you sure she isn’t possessed? Sounds like something out of “Invasion Of The Bodysnatchers”.”
“Invasion of the what?”
Siwon shrugged. “Some book I read years ago. I think Wizard Yesung lent it to me. Anyway, I wonder what made her agree. What do you think?”
“I’m not sure. She certainly has a reason for doing it. In all these years Jagroop has never worn a gown for a ball; what is so different now? Perhaps it’s the visitors from Formosa. There may be someone she is trying to impress.” Jealousy briefly flared inside Kangin. Wait, why am I getting jealous? I don’t have any feelings for her, she’s just my wife. He smothered the feeling quickly and shrugged. “Whatever her reason, it’ll be interesting to see her dressed as a lady. I’ve almost forgotten what she looks like wearing women’s clothing.”
Siwon nodded in agreement then headed off to his chambers to prepare for the ball. He had enjoyed the few minutes he spent talking with his childhood friend. The king’s many duties prevented him from having free moments to just sit and chat, especially about personal matters. Once again the lord lamented the changes being king had wrought upon Kangin. Is it really worth it, my friend? Is all of this worth destroying yourself over?
Several hours later, the ball was in full swing. Many couples danced across the floor in time to the lively music. Most attendees were wearing their finest clothes and jewelry, hoping to impress the foreign visitors. Han Geng and Brinny-chan stopped inside the room after being announced in order to take in the scene before them. “Our hosts certainly know how to put on a party,” Geng said to his wife in Formi.
“Yes and it looks as if everyone else has gotten into it as well. Such overt displays of wealth and status turn my stomach,” she replied. “If people would put their time and efforts into supporting each other instead of trying to one-up one another society would be a far different place.”
“That’s what I love about you; your generous heart and love for others,” Han Geng said and bent down to place a quick kiss on her cheek.
Brinny-chan blushed and lightly pushed him away. “Behave yourself, Dear, we are in public and you need to act with decorum.” Her husband laughed, then took her hand to lead her through the crowd. Several minutes later they encountered Lady Amelie and Lady Ophelia with their respective husbands. Introductions were made all around. Lady Ophelia eyed Lady Brinny-chan’s gown critically. Smiling falsely she said, “It’s a shame you weren’t able to bring a proper ballgown with you and the king did not give you enough notice so that a new one could be made. Still, that dress does suit you in your own way.”
Han Geng’s eyes narrowed at the insult to his wife. Brinny-chan lightly squeezed his hand, silently asking him to hold his tongue. She smiled and replied, “Actually, this is my best gown and I wear it to all the balls. I prefer to focus on inner beauty rather than outward adornment.”
At this Ophelia sniffed and turned away. Amelie smiled slightly and said, “I think you and the queen will get along well. My apologies for not arranging a meeting between the two of you yet. Our schedules have been incompatible lately. If you and Ambassador Han Geng are not presently busy, I would like to introduce you to her now." At Han Geng’s nod Brinny-chan accepted the offer and the foursome walked across the room.
In the center of the dance floor a crowd was gathering. Two men were dancing with movements so quick it was difficult for anyone’s eyes to follow. Their feet were a blur as they quickly moved about the floor with intricate steps. The two twirled, dipped and swept at an almost frantic pace; the musicians were hard pressed to keep time with them. The ambassador and his wife stopped in shock; not just at the amazing talent the dancers were displaying but because the two men were dancing with each other!
Seeing their expressions, Siwon laughed and said, “I see no one has told you about Lords Donghae and Eunhyuk. They are the two best dancers in the kingdom. No ladies are able to keep up with them, though many have tried. So out of necessity they’ve become dance partners. They do dance with ladies, scores of them, but at some point in each ball they come together to show off their skills and test their limits. They really are amazing to watch. For each of them, dancing is a passion. Neither one ever misses a chance to move their body to music. It’s no wonder then that they are the best of friends.”
“Are they a couple?” Han Geng asked.
“No, they are simply friends,” Siwon replied. “Eunhyuk is happily married to Lady Laura and Donghae is a bit of a playboy. So far he hasn’t settled down but I’m sure in time the right lady will come along and tame him. Right, my love?” he asked his wife. She merely laughed and began walking towards the queen again.
As Eunhyuk and Donghae’s dance came to an end, there was much applause for them and for the musicians who promptly asked for a fifteen minute break to rest. Lady Laura came up to them, bringing each a much needed drink of water. “Thank you very much, Dearest. You always know exactly what I need,” Laura’s husband said, showing his gummy smile.
She smiled happily and turned to Donghae, handing him his drink. Eunhyuk turned to his friend and asked, “When are you finally going to find someone and get married? You’re not going to stay young forever, you know.”
Donghae laughed good-naturedly and replied, “All in its proper time, my good man. Now that you’ve found domestic bliss you seem determined to see everyone in the same state, whether they want it or not.” Eunhyuk laughed while Laura blushed. “So far no woman has been able to catch my heart, although many have caught my eye,” the younger man said while grinning.
“Oh, Mari dear, I didn’t see you standing there,” Lady Laura said, greeting her close friend. A beautiful woman stood to the side, a slightly annoyed look on her face and something flashing in her eyes - jealousy, perhaps? Quickly she rearranged her features into a smile and hugged the other woman. Then Mari greeted each of the lords, her eyes lingering on Donghae’s for a few extra seconds with silent communication passing between them. Turning back to her friend she smiled and hugged her again.
“My husband was once again trying to convince Lord Donghae to find a wife,” Laura said.
“It’s not a matter of finding a wife; it’s about finding the right woman. Correct, Lord Donghae?” Mari asked while arching an eyebrow at the man.
“Of course, my lady. I suppose at some point I’ll have to marry, but until then why not enjoy all life has to offer? No one knows what or who the future will bring.”
Lady Mari’s face darkened as he spoke. At the end of his comments she stormed off in search of her husband. “What was all that about?” Eunhyuk asked, looking at the other two.
“I have no idea but I’ll talk to her later,” his wife said while Donghae merely shrugged. Turning to Donghae, Lady Laura asked him, “If you’re finished with Eunhyuk for the night, do you mind if I steal him away for a few sets?”
Lord Donghae quickly gave his consent and watched the happy couple walk away, hand in hand. The smile on his face faded away as he looked across the room at Lady Mari. She was sitting unhappily by her husband who was busily engaged in conversation with a business partner. Sighing, he turned away and scanned the room for someone to serve as a distraction from his futile thoughts.
Up on the dais, Lord Siwon, Lady Amelie, Ambassador Han Geng and Lady Brinny-chan knelt before the king and queen. After bidding them to rise, Kangin asked with a slight smile on his face, “To what do we credit the honor of your presence?” Seeing Jagroop in a gown had put him in a good mood, although he’d never admit it, even to himself.
“My wife would like to introduce Lady Brinny-chan to the Queen, Your Highness,” Siwon replied.
“In that case, why don’t the ladies retire to another room where they may speak freely and privately?” Kangin said.
Everyone agreed but before the women could walk away they all heard screams and laughter coming from the other side of the room. Han Geng turned towards the sounds and stared in shock as a person ran across the room in a near state of undress. The only fabric present was a miniature toga wrapped around the man’s body. The beautiful face, delicate body and long hair instantly made him think it was a woman before him. However, one look at the person’s chest confirmed it was indeed a man. As the almost naked man streaked across the room he shouted, “I say ‘Hee’, you say ‘Sica’. Hee!! Hee!!”
Surprising Geng even more, the majority of the attendees happily chanted “Sica” back. He turned to the king, an incredulous look on his face.
“That’s our court jester, Heechul. He never fails to find new and creative ways to keep us entertained,” Kangin said. He then laughed, startling those around him more than the sight of an almost naked Heechul had. Queen Jagroop and Lord Siwon couldn’t help the huge smiles that broke out on their faces. Seeing the king like this was almost a miracle and as such it brought such joy to the two people in the world that cared most about him. Remembering where he was, Kangin frowned and said, “You ladies may go now that Heechul has cleared a path for you.” Queen Jagroop, Lady Amelie and Lady Brinny-chan bid their menfolk good-bye and walked away.
Pairings: Super Junior Members + OCs
Rating: PG-13 for violence
Notes: Character death, Medieval/Fantasy AU, occasional crack
Summary: Magic, intrigue and secrets abound in and around the king's court. While everyone has something to hide, some have more than others. Who has the biggest secret and will it end up tearing the kingdom apart?
Lord Siwon and King Kangin sat next to each other in quiet contemplation. “So what do you think of the Formosian ambassador?” Siwon asked.
The king looked thoughtful for a moment before answering, “I’m not quite sure. There’s nothing about him that makes me outright distrust him, but there’s something that is making me uneasy. What it is, I just can’t put my finger on. What are your impressions?”
“Similar to yours, I guess. You know I want to believe the best of everyone. The timing of this visit and the unusually large number of nobility that came gives me pause, though. Amelie has met the ambassador’s wife, Lady Brinny-chan, and was quite impressed with her. Apparently the lady was born on the Isle of Syla and was married to the ambassador for political reasons. Her story sounds very similar to the queen’s.”
Kangin frowned slightly at the mention of his wife, but nodded in agreement. “She’s found it difficult to make friends.” Not that she’s put in that huge of an effort. To be honest, though, there was a part of Kangin that admired Jagroop for not compromising and staying true to her beliefs, even in the face of rejection. That part yearned for Kangin’s own freedom; for him to cast aside all the expectations others, especially his mother and grandmother, had for him. Once again, his training and upbringing asserted itself, making him shove those desires into the far recesses of his heart. “I know Jagroop appreciates your wife’s friendliness and quiet support,” the king continued.
“Amelie tries her best. She and I both feel bad that she’s been unable to become close friends with Jagroop. As friendly as my wife is, she finds it hard to buck societal norms too much.”
“Please don’t worry yourselves,” Kangin said, giving Siwon one of his rare smiles. “You’ve been my best friend since childhood; having you by my side is the greatest gift you could ever give me. Unlike what’s written in the stories, the wives of best friends don’t have to be close friends. As long as they don’t hate each other or want to rip each other’s hair out each time they see one another, I’m content.” Siwon laughed but felt a twinge of guilt.
Kangin smiled again then said, “As much as I’d love to sit here and chat with you, it’s time for me to get ready for the blasted ball tonight. No doubt your lovely wife is elbow-deep in preparations and wondering where you are. I’m not sure what planets aligned themselves, but I convinced Jagroop to actually wear a dress tonight.”
Siwon’s eyebrows shot up and his expressive face clearly showed his surprise. “I think this is the first time since your wedding. Are you sure she isn’t possessed? Sounds like something out of “Invasion Of The Bodysnatchers”.”
“Invasion of the what?”
Siwon shrugged. “Some book I read years ago. I think Wizard Yesung lent it to me. Anyway, I wonder what made her agree. What do you think?”
“I’m not sure. She certainly has a reason for doing it. In all these years Jagroop has never worn a gown for a ball; what is so different now? Perhaps it’s the visitors from Formosa. There may be someone she is trying to impress.” Jealousy briefly flared inside Kangin. Wait, why am I getting jealous? I don’t have any feelings for her, she’s just my wife. He smothered the feeling quickly and shrugged. “Whatever her reason, it’ll be interesting to see her dressed as a lady. I’ve almost forgotten what she looks like wearing women’s clothing.”
Siwon nodded in agreement then headed off to his chambers to prepare for the ball. He had enjoyed the few minutes he spent talking with his childhood friend. The king’s many duties prevented him from having free moments to just sit and chat, especially about personal matters. Once again the lord lamented the changes being king had wrought upon Kangin. Is it really worth it, my friend? Is all of this worth destroying yourself over?
Several hours later, the ball was in full swing. Many couples danced across the floor in time to the lively music. Most attendees were wearing their finest clothes and jewelry, hoping to impress the foreign visitors. Han Geng and Brinny-chan stopped inside the room after being announced in order to take in the scene before them. “Our hosts certainly know how to put on a party,” Geng said to his wife in Formi.
“Yes and it looks as if everyone else has gotten into it as well. Such overt displays of wealth and status turn my stomach,” she replied. “If people would put their time and efforts into supporting each other instead of trying to one-up one another society would be a far different place.”
“That’s what I love about you; your generous heart and love for others,” Han Geng said and bent down to place a quick kiss on her cheek.
Brinny-chan blushed and lightly pushed him away. “Behave yourself, Dear, we are in public and you need to act with decorum.” Her husband laughed, then took her hand to lead her through the crowd. Several minutes later they encountered Lady Amelie and Lady Ophelia with their respective husbands. Introductions were made all around. Lady Ophelia eyed Lady Brinny-chan’s gown critically. Smiling falsely she said, “It’s a shame you weren’t able to bring a proper ballgown with you and the king did not give you enough notice so that a new one could be made. Still, that dress does suit you in your own way.”
Han Geng’s eyes narrowed at the insult to his wife. Brinny-chan lightly squeezed his hand, silently asking him to hold his tongue. She smiled and replied, “Actually, this is my best gown and I wear it to all the balls. I prefer to focus on inner beauty rather than outward adornment.”
At this Ophelia sniffed and turned away. Amelie smiled slightly and said, “I think you and the queen will get along well. My apologies for not arranging a meeting between the two of you yet. Our schedules have been incompatible lately. If you and Ambassador Han Geng are not presently busy, I would like to introduce you to her now." At Han Geng’s nod Brinny-chan accepted the offer and the foursome walked across the room.
In the center of the dance floor a crowd was gathering. Two men were dancing with movements so quick it was difficult for anyone’s eyes to follow. Their feet were a blur as they quickly moved about the floor with intricate steps. The two twirled, dipped and swept at an almost frantic pace; the musicians were hard pressed to keep time with them. The ambassador and his wife stopped in shock; not just at the amazing talent the dancers were displaying but because the two men were dancing with each other!
Seeing their expressions, Siwon laughed and said, “I see no one has told you about Lords Donghae and Eunhyuk. They are the two best dancers in the kingdom. No ladies are able to keep up with them, though many have tried. So out of necessity they’ve become dance partners. They do dance with ladies, scores of them, but at some point in each ball they come together to show off their skills and test their limits. They really are amazing to watch. For each of them, dancing is a passion. Neither one ever misses a chance to move their body to music. It’s no wonder then that they are the best of friends.”
“Are they a couple?” Han Geng asked.
“No, they are simply friends,” Siwon replied. “Eunhyuk is happily married to Lady Laura and Donghae is a bit of a playboy. So far he hasn’t settled down but I’m sure in time the right lady will come along and tame him. Right, my love?” he asked his wife. She merely laughed and began walking towards the queen again.
As Eunhyuk and Donghae’s dance came to an end, there was much applause for them and for the musicians who promptly asked for a fifteen minute break to rest. Lady Laura came up to them, bringing each a much needed drink of water. “Thank you very much, Dearest. You always know exactly what I need,” Laura’s husband said, showing his gummy smile.
She smiled happily and turned to Donghae, handing him his drink. Eunhyuk turned to his friend and asked, “When are you finally going to find someone and get married? You’re not going to stay young forever, you know.”
Donghae laughed good-naturedly and replied, “All in its proper time, my good man. Now that you’ve found domestic bliss you seem determined to see everyone in the same state, whether they want it or not.” Eunhyuk laughed while Laura blushed. “So far no woman has been able to catch my heart, although many have caught my eye,” the younger man said while grinning.
“Oh, Mari dear, I didn’t see you standing there,” Lady Laura said, greeting her close friend. A beautiful woman stood to the side, a slightly annoyed look on her face and something flashing in her eyes - jealousy, perhaps? Quickly she rearranged her features into a smile and hugged the other woman. Then Mari greeted each of the lords, her eyes lingering on Donghae’s for a few extra seconds with silent communication passing between them. Turning back to her friend she smiled and hugged her again.
“My husband was once again trying to convince Lord Donghae to find a wife,” Laura said.
“It’s not a matter of finding a wife; it’s about finding the right woman. Correct, Lord Donghae?” Mari asked while arching an eyebrow at the man.
“Of course, my lady. I suppose at some point I’ll have to marry, but until then why not enjoy all life has to offer? No one knows what or who the future will bring.”
Lady Mari’s face darkened as he spoke. At the end of his comments she stormed off in search of her husband. “What was all that about?” Eunhyuk asked, looking at the other two.
“I have no idea but I’ll talk to her later,” his wife said while Donghae merely shrugged. Turning to Donghae, Lady Laura asked him, “If you’re finished with Eunhyuk for the night, do you mind if I steal him away for a few sets?”
Lord Donghae quickly gave his consent and watched the happy couple walk away, hand in hand. The smile on his face faded away as he looked across the room at Lady Mari. She was sitting unhappily by her husband who was busily engaged in conversation with a business partner. Sighing, he turned away and scanned the room for someone to serve as a distraction from his futile thoughts.
Up on the dais, Lord Siwon, Lady Amelie, Ambassador Han Geng and Lady Brinny-chan knelt before the king and queen. After bidding them to rise, Kangin asked with a slight smile on his face, “To what do we credit the honor of your presence?” Seeing Jagroop in a gown had put him in a good mood, although he’d never admit it, even to himself.
“My wife would like to introduce Lady Brinny-chan to the Queen, Your Highness,” Siwon replied.
“In that case, why don’t the ladies retire to another room where they may speak freely and privately?” Kangin said.
Everyone agreed but before the women could walk away they all heard screams and laughter coming from the other side of the room. Han Geng turned towards the sounds and stared in shock as a person ran across the room in a near state of undress. The only fabric present was a miniature toga wrapped around the man’s body. The beautiful face, delicate body and long hair instantly made him think it was a woman before him. However, one look at the person’s chest confirmed it was indeed a man. As the almost naked man streaked across the room he shouted, “I say ‘Hee’, you say ‘Sica’. Hee!! Hee!!”
Surprising Geng even more, the majority of the attendees happily chanted “Sica” back. He turned to the king, an incredulous look on his face.
“That’s our court jester, Heechul. He never fails to find new and creative ways to keep us entertained,” Kangin said. He then laughed, startling those around him more than the sight of an almost naked Heechul had. Queen Jagroop and Lord Siwon couldn’t help the huge smiles that broke out on their faces. Seeing the king like this was almost a miracle and as such it brought such joy to the two people in the world that cared most about him. Remembering where he was, Kangin frowned and said, “You ladies may go now that Heechul has cleared a path for you.” Queen Jagroop, Lady Amelie and Lady Brinny-chan bid their menfolk good-bye and walked away.