Chapter Text
In the heart of the grand royal palace, an air of anticipation hung like gossamer veils as the kingdom braced itself for the most momentous event—the royal wedding. The palace corridors echoed with the hushed whispers of courtiers, servants, and artisans who moved with purpose, each step contributing to the orchestration of a celebration befitting the regal union.
Brand new carpets were laid out on every floor of the palace, sparkling gold replaced all the fine china in the kitchen cabinets and the huge castle pillars seemed to glimmer with polish. Elaborate centerpieces adorned the banquet tables, featuring crystal vases overflowing with rare blooms, imported from the kingdom's most distant corners. Newly imported golden chandeliers hung down the ceilings, bigger and more glamorous than ever before.
The throne room where the ceremony would be taking place, was scrubbed down and polished until it looked brand new. Old drapes were replaced with new fancy ones and the throne chairs were shifted around to make space for the historic event. Benches were tripled and arranged close together to create enough space to seat everyone.
Messenger doves and footmen were flown out to every kingdom in the continent, announcing to everyone with ears that their emperor was finally marrying. The kingdom exploded with festivities throughout the days leading up to the special occasion. The streets were bustling with life, houses decorated and joyous folk tunes filling the air in light of the good news.
Huge bannisters filled the roads from the palace gates to the castle, decorated with the insignia of the Samar, a golden lion roaring ferociously, decorated by a crimson background representing the blood it has spilled to reach such glory. Security was tripled to ensure that no mishaps or accidents took place. The castle itself seemed to sparkle in the midst of all the celebration.
The entire kingdom was celebrating. Everyone was excited. Okay well… almost everyone.
Hoseok huffed, blowing hair away from his face in frustration as he shovelled dung from under yet another stubborn horse. Peaches snorted at him mockingly, before dropping yet another load, right in front of Hoseok. The audacity! The alpha yelped in disgust, moving away to save himself from the mess before scowling at the mare, “You little demon!”
A small giggle had him jumping into the air in surprise yet again and Hoseok whipped around to find Jungkook and Taehyung watching him from the doorway in amusement.
“Even the horses don’t respect you anymore?” Taeyhung tutted in mock sympathy, “ And here I thought you were an animal whisperer.” he teased, only making the scowl on Hoseok’s face grow even bigger.
“This is not an animal, this has to be a demon, there’s no other explanation.” Hoseok grumbled, rolling his eyes when Jungkook approached the horse, cooing at it softly.
“Is the big bad alpha mistreating you honey?” Peaches neighed innocently, “Oh you poor little thing. Well it’s good you taught him a lesson hm?”
Hoseok scoffed, eyes wide in indignation, “I mistreated him? Who’s the one who’s been tending to the entire barn the past week?!?! Edmund’s on leave because his omega is pregnant, Akali can’t work cuz she split a disk trying to fix the overhead last week, and Lei is down with yellow fever. If there’s anyone who’s getting mistreated, it’s me! So much for being the head of the stables, when I’m the one doing all the work.” He grouched, flinging the rake down before crossing his arms sulkily and pouting.
“And with the wedding coming up, we need to make even more space for all the new guests and their carriages. Oh lord, just take me now.” He sighed dramatically.
Taehyung giggled, “Well, a lot of important people are coming Hobi and we can’t give anyone a chance to criticise our kingdom. Joonie said he’ll fire anyone who causes even the smallest mishap.”
Hoseok rolled his eyes.
“If it makes you feel any better, me and Jimin have had fittings the entire day. Joonie says it’s for any potential suitors who might come.”
“It really doesn’t make feel better but okay.” Hoseok muttered under his breath, glaring when Aria neighed loudly from a stall nearby.
“Hey wait a minute, isn’t that the queen’s horse?” Jungkook gestured towards the demon.
“Yes,” Hoseok rolled his eyes, “She seems to hold onto the queen’s contempt for Samarians. Gives me such a hard time, the devil. Did your brother really have to go and conquer every land there is?”
“Good heavens Hoseok, these horses really did a number on you didn’t they?I don’t think I’ve seen you this cranky.” Jungkook snorted.
Hoseok’s frown straightened a little, “Really? Am I being insufferable right now?”
Taehyung grabbed the alpha’s arm, “Maybe a little, but that’s fine! Because we’re here to whisk you away, at least for a while. Look, Jungkookie even brought along your favourite blueberry tart from the kitchen!”
Jungkook nodded with a grin, waving the basket in his hand in confirmation.
“Come on then, why don’t you take a break from all this and spend a little time with us? I missed my lovely alpha.” Taehyung cooed, pulling Hoseok away from the barn, towards the meadows nearby, Jungkook trailing behind with the basket in hand.
Distractions did help after all.
---- ------- ----
It was a day before the wedding and the kingdom was busier than ever. But if Jimin was being completely honest, he kind of liked all the activity actually. With his elder brother away at war most of the time, occasions like these were not at all common in Samar and Jimin wanted to savour it while he could.
He was sure that if it was not for Seokjin distracting his brother these past months, the king would have definitely gone back to another conquest or battle by now.
Little blessings, Jimin mused as he quietly made his way to Yoongi’s chambers. They had decided after almost getting caught a hundred times that it would be more discreet to meet in places like the terrace of the 3rd tower or the meadows by the stables but Jimin figured that with everyone so busy with preparations, no one was going to notice.
He knocked thrice before the door opened with a slow creak and a sleepy looking Yoongi blearily opened the door, the alpha’s eyes blowing comically wide at the sight of his lover before he yanked Jimin into the room and shut it behind him.
“You’re absolutely certain that no one saw you right?” Yoongi asked for the tenth time, running a hand through his unruly hair. It was getting longer, the longest strands now touching his shoulder. Jimin quite liked the look. It made the alpha look more rugged and handsome.
Jimin nodded in confirmation once again to ease his alpha’s anxiety, laying down on Yoongi’s bed with a happy sigh. Yoongi’s room was secretly his favourite place in the castle. The room was comfortable enough, Seokjin had made sure that Yoongi had gotten a room fit for a general. There was a big oak wardrobe for his clothes and a couple of accompanying shelves and cupboards for his belongings. The chandelier was simple and didn’t overly light up the room like the one in Jimin’s. The single mahogany bed that centred the room was a little small for two people but Jimin didn’t mind that since it only served as an excuse to snuggle up closer to Yoongi. With cotton sheets and warm blankets that smelled like his beloved, Jimin had no other place he’d rather be.
Yoongi laid down beside him, both of them shifting around until they settled down with Yoongi’s bicep pillowing Jimin’s head, his arm curled on the alpha’s chest and their legs tangled up beneath them. Silence fell upon them as they cuddled together.
Yoongi was a reserved alpha who didn’t usually chatter away but he was acting a lot quieter than usual. Jimin turned to the alpha, sensing that something was bothering him. “What is it, my love?”
Yoongi blinked as if he had been broken out of his thoughts before simply shaking his head and pulling the princess closer with a sigh, “Nothing darling. I just would’ve never imagined the queen marrying again.”
Jimin smiled, turning his head to place a kiss on the alpha’s neck.“I absolutely understand. I thought Joonie would end up a hermit forever as well.”
Yoongi hummed noncommittally and Jimin frowned. There was definitely something bothering the alpha and Jimin was suspicious.
“I don’t know what’s going on in that head of yours but I hope you know that I will always love you no matter what.”
Yoongi gulped, finally turning to the omega, “Will you, really?”
Jimin’s eyes widened at the sombre response, a concerned frown taking over his face, “Of course darling, where is this coming from?”
Yoongi shrugged, “I’m not sure. These days my mind is plagued with thoughts about situations that are out of my control and yet whose consequences still affect me. I don’t want to be held responsible for anyone’s actions. I don’t want any more pain, I just want to be happy. So much has happened and I’ve had enough. But I’m afraid that’s too much to ask.”
Jimin frowned, raising up to cup both of Yoongi’s cheeks in his small hands, “You listen to me, stupid alpha.” He said sternly, meeting Yoongi’s sullen eyes, “I don’t know what’s running in that mind of yours but my alpha’s happiness is not too much to ask.”
Yoongi opened his mouth to interject but Jimin shushed him with a finger to his lips, “No. You deserve nothing but happiness after the cards that fate has dealt you and I will be here to ensure that. No matter the situation, I won’t let anything pull us apart and I want you to know that. Now, I will not press you about this any further since you seem to be troubled enough and I want you to be comfortable around me. So shut those thoughts away and.” Jimin kissed the alpha’s lips sweetly, a mischievous glint in his eye as he moved to straddle Yoongi.
“Focus only on me.”
He whispered against the alpha’s lips before meeting them with his own, sighing happily into the kiss. Jimin threaded his fingers through the apha’s long locks as he deepened the kiss, determined to make Yoongi forget his worries.Yoongi’s arms went around to rest on Jimin’s hips, pulling the omega closer to him as their tongues danced passionately.
Yoongi smiled shyly when they pulled apart and Jimin sighed in relief at the sight, “I love you sweetheart.”
Jimin beamed back at his alpha, “I love you too my Yoongi. I’m sorry that I’ve hardly been able to meet you these days, what with all the wedding preparations and all. But soon I’ll have you all to myself again once everything gets over tomorrow.
“Yeah… Everything.” Yoongi mumbled quietly. The pair shared another kiss and then one more and then one more after that until they were passionately making out, hands exploring each other’s bodies.
Jimin pressed their bodies even closer, their crotches awake and touching firmly as the alpha chuckled, “I thought you would be too tired for this princess.”
The omega grinned mischievously, dipping down to reattach their lips, “Never too tired to love you.”
It didn’t matter what happened the next day, what mattered was this moment right here.
---- ------- ----
The morning sun bathed the royal chambers in a soft glow as Seokjin got ready for his wedding day, the rays casting his silhouette as a portrait of quiet resignation. His body seemed to be moving on its own since he had woken up. He had hardly eaten more than a slice of toast for breakfast, his appetite had seemed to have vanished all of a sudden.
Seokjin had reluctantly let the maids bathe him down with scented oils and rose petals until he was scrubbed, oiled and hairless as they prepared his body for the ‘special occasion’. He was compliant with their requests, stepping into the gorgeous gold wedding dress as was customary in Samarian marriages. He admired the silk and lace, his hands running over the stitches that would seal his fate. Each delicate touch felt like the closing of a cage, a cage he had been trying desperately to escape. He absent mindedly wondered what had happened to the red dress he had worn for his previous wedding as in Thera and felt a pang in his heart at the memory.
He let them work on his hair and face next, trying not to squirm at the feeling of unfamiliar hands touching his face. They lined his eyes with kohl and tinted his cheeks and lips with red. Gold bracelets were then slipped onto his wrists, earrings hung from his ears and matching necklaces were placed around his beautiful neck.
As the sheer veil finally descended over his face, Seokjin closed his eyes, attempting to shut out the reality that awaited beyond the chamber doors. He wondered if the shimmering fabric could hide the fire in his eyes.
His hand trembled as he reached for the bouquet of white lilies, the symbol of purity that contrasted starkly with the impurity of his intentions. It would be remembered as a joyous day in Samarian history even if Seokjin’s heart hung heavy with the bitter taste of resentment.
When Seokjin looked at himself in the mirror he didn’t see a dolled up bride staring back at him. Instead, he saw a monster.
Suddenly, the doors were opened and Jimin strode into the room with Taehyung following close behind, “The ceremony is about to start, is everything ready?” he asked the maids, eyes assessing the chamber in concern before they met Seokjin’s in the mirror.
Jimin’s frown immediately melted in a look of awe and Taehyung let out a gasp, “Oh Jinnie, you look simply magnificent!” Taehyung gushed, coming forward to grab Seokjin’s hands in his, “Namjoon is going to lose his mind when he sees you!”
Jin forced out a smile, suddenly feeling grateful for the little protection the veil gave him, “Thank you Taehyung.”
“Oh that’s enough with the formalities, call me Taetae, we're basically family now!” The princess continued excitedly, unaware of the turmoil brewing inside of Seokjin.
“Let’s not overwhelm his highness now Tae, you’re only going to make him more nervous.” Jimin slowly pulled his brother away with a chiding smile, before turning to Jin.
“Your highness, it is time.” he said with a careful smile, his voice carrying the weight of inevitability. “We will take our leave now to inform the room, the next time we meet it will be as family. I hope your married life with our brother is long and happy.”
Seokjin’s breath caught in his throat at the reminder and he could only nod wordlessly as he watched the omegas leave the room in a flurry of skirts. It was time.
The queen took a deep breath before standing up and making his way to the throne room, surprised to see Yoongi waiting outside the room for him nervously.
“They said I have to give you away.” The alpha said as if in explanation. He looked dashing in his red robes and armour, proudly showing off his Theran heritage.
Their eyes met briefly, a thousand conversations flashing past them in a moment. The past weeks had created a noticeable rift between them. Killing the king would be sure to have severe consequences if they were caught but Seokjin had thought that Yoongi would ultimately go along with his plans after some convincing. But Jin was wrong because it seemed like Yoongi wasn’t so loyal to him anymore. He truly had nothing to lose now.
The hushed whispers of courtiers and the distant sounds of the approaching ceremony served as a dissonant backdrop to the tension that grew heavy between them until it was thick enough to be cut with a knife. Yoongi gulped, feet shifting uneasily, “It’s not too late. We could-”
Seokjin immediately looked away and Yoongi let his words die, a look of resignation falling across his face. He slowly held out his arm for Seokjin, “If a death sentence is what you choose, then I have no option but to follow you to it.”
Together arm in arm like the day they fought the war together, the pair stepped into the room to walk the long aisle. A wave of formality swept across the room at the sight of the bride and the court musicians began to play.
The aisle was long with crowds of people watching him from both sides, both nobles and peasants alike. At the end of the path on a dais with their thrones stood Namjoon, smiling brighter than Seokjin had ever seen. The alpha looked ridiculously handsome in his blue and gold robes, sandy blonde hair slicked back, dragon eyes looking sharp as ever as he stood tall and proud, his crown sitting on his head like it was a part of him. And it really was.
Seokjin could hear hushed murmurs of the people around him, the weight of their gaze on him but his gaze remained fixed ahead and unwavering as he walked on with a facade of regal grace.
The walk up the aisle seemed like it took ages when in reality it couldn’t have been more than a few minutes. When they finally reached the end of the carpet, Yoongi took Seokjin’s hand and placed it in Namjoon’s outstretched one. His face was solemn and ashen as he murmured a low congratulations before moving to stand to the side with the princesses and other nobles.
Namjoon’s hand was as warm as the dimpled smile he gave him, “It looks like the Gods have given me an angel today.” he whispered. Seokjin clenched his teeth into a smile, “Thank you.” he replied, grateful for the veil as they turned to face the priest in front of them.
The priest cleared his throat, “Do you, Kim Namjoon, sovereign ruler of Samar and its provinces take this omega as your lawfully wedded spouse and pledge before the gods and subjects, to stand as your omega’s lord and partner, to lead the kingdom in times of prosperity and in the face of adversity, with wisdom, justice, and compassion. To cherish and protect this omega, to honour your union, and to govern the lands with the best interests of the people at heart. To love and cherish this omega in sickness and in health, in sunny days and thunderstorms, in war and in peace, until death do you apart?”
Namjoon's eyes seemed to gleam with barely concealed happiness as he replied without hesitation, “I do.”
The priest continued, “Do you, Kim Seokjin, take this alpha as your lawfully wedded spouse and swear by the grace of fate and the will of the heavens to stand beside this alpha in your union. To support your king as his queen and companion with grace, to advise with wisdom, and to embody the strength that our realm requires. To be his confidante, faithful and support him in times of joy. Do you promise to be a true and faithful queen and honour your king until the end of your days?”
Suddenly it felt like Seokjin’s mouth was full of sand, for he could not utter a single word. His veil felt too suffocating and he got a sudden urge to rip apart this wedding dress and flee. Sweat clung to skin underneath which anxiety was brimming up to the surface. He wanted to scream, to take out his dagger and stab Namjoon or perhaps himself so all this pain would finally stop.
Soon, he told himself. Soon he would be free from this.
He cleared his throat when he realised that he had been silent for too long. Namjoon’s smile started to fade and Jin’s eyes widened as he hastily blurted out, “I do.”
The crowd broke into applause as the ring bearer came forward with the wedding bands. Seokjin lifted Namjoon’s ring from the velvet cushion with trembling fingers. It was a thick gold band, simple yet fitting. Namjoon stretched his hand out, their skin brushing together to send jolts of electricity down his spine as Jin placed the ring on his finger.
Namjoon lifted the omega’s hand in his hand to place the ring, fingers gentle on his skin. Seokjin’s ring had a thinner band with diamonds encrusted in the middle. It fit him perfectly like a noose around a man about to be hung.
“Now that the rings have been exchanged, if you could remove the queen’s veil for his coronation, your highness.” The priest requested.
Even Namjoon looked nervous as he stepped closer to slowly lift the veil from Seokjin’s face. Their eyes met directly for the first time that day and Namjoon genuinely looked shocked. “I’m afraid you’ve stolen my breath darling.” he murmured in awe, making Seokjin blush a little under the attention.
A servant stepped forward with a cushion carrying the crown. The air sparkled with the reflection of diamonds and sapphires as Namjoon lifted it into the air. He stepped even closer to Jin and tucked away a strand of hair behind the omega’s ear before gently placing the crown upon him, the weight a reminder of the burden he would bear as both bride and sovereign.
Even the priest needed a moment to collect his thoughts to continue, “Please repeat after me, your highness. ‘I, Kim Seokjin, in the presence of the Gods and before the subjects, am entrusted to govern and solemnly pledge my unwavering devotion to this kingdom.
I vow to lead with wisdom, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of our subjects. My reign shall be a beacon of justice and fairness, a testament to the enduring spirit of our land. I shall strive to foster unity, to protect the weak, and to champion the aspirations of all who call this kingdom home.
With the authority vested in me, I promise to uphold the laws and traditions of this kingdom, to defend its borders with strength and resilience, and to honour the heritage passed down through generations as if it is my own. May my reign be marked not only by the majesty of the crown but by the integrity of my character and the sincerity of my service.
As I wear this crown, I embrace the responsibilities it represents, understanding that my duty is to the people and the land of Samar. In times of joy and in moments of trial, I shall stand as a steadfast guardian, guided by the principles of justice and tempered by the wisdom of experience.
So do I pledge, before the gods and this assembly, to serve with honour, to rule with compassion, and to devote my life to the prosperity and well-being of this cherished kingdom.’"
Seokjin’s mouth had gone dry by the end of the vow but he was glad that it was over.
The priest clapped his hands together, “It is now time for the offerings.”
Seokjin had almost forgotten about this part. It was tradition for a couple to offer each other a gift on their wedding day. Namjoon signalled to a servant who rushed forward with a huge package with a soft feeling to it. Jin turned it over in his hands before ripping away the paper to find a warm cloak made out of animal hide. It was huge and thick, the fur long on the outside and padded with soft material on the inside. “This was made from the biggest beast in our woods. It took me three days to find and hunt it down. I hope that this serves as a protection when I’m not with you.” Namjoon said with a proud smile.
Seokjin admired the cloak, turning it over in his hands to feel the soft material, “I will use it well.” he said before motioning to Yoongi for his gift.
It was tradition to exchange gifts but Namjoon looked surprised as if he hadn’t expected Seokjin to actually go through with it.
Namjoon’s gift wasn’t wrapped but it did have a sheath. The king’s eyes widened when he revealed the sleek shining dagger from its sheath. It was big for a dagger, long and sharp with a beautiful handle. Jin had been confused as to what to give Namjoon for their wedding. Afterall, there was nothing that a king would want that he didn’t already have. But he had noticed that although he’d seen Namjoon wield every weapon to ever be made, he had never seen the king with a dagger. And daggers and knives were Seokjin’s favourite so he had thought that perhaps, just maybe, Namjoon would find interest in it.
Seokjin watched Namjoon’s face carefully for any reaction but the alpha’s face was completely blank, only serving to make the omega more anxious. The alpha was silent as he slid his fingers over the cold metal.
Seokjin cleared his throat when the silence got too long, “I know it isn’t much but I noticed that you didn't use any daggers. They are my favourite weapon so I thought I would give you one so that you might find joy in them like I did. If you don’t li-”
“It’s beautiful.” Namjoon breathed out finally, his eyes glued to the intricate design engraved onto the blade, “I will have this with me at all times for the rest of my days.”
But Namjoon would not have any more days after this. Namjoon would not live after today because of Seokjin. Because he hated the king. Because he took away his crown.
The reminder struck him like a bolt of lightning and he shuddered, whatever rose coloured trance he had been in until now, breaking to reveal the cruel truth. That this wedding ceremony was a sham. And whatever butterflies he had gotten were only thorns that were getting tighter around his throat.
The omega had gotten so carried away with the wedding as if he truly was in love with Namjoon.
What had he been thinking? That he was a blushing young maiden who was getting married to the love of his life, his eternal soulmate, his other half?
Seokjin grit his teeth to keep his smile in place as the priest continued the ceremony, talking about their journey together as a couple and their eternal love. He wasn’t paying attention to anything he was saying, he had gone numb to everything around him, until he found Namjoon stepping closer to him. Closer and closer until their faces were centimetres apart and he could feel the alpha’s breath, the erratic beating of his heart, the warmth of his skin. Their eyes met for a moment, bold and never ending and Seokjin could no longer breathe.
He heard the priest say in the background, “With the power vested in me and as the Gods as our witness, I hereby pronounce you as mates. Your highness, you may kiss your omega.”
That was all it took for Namjoon to capture his lips with his own, arms winding around each other in a fierce hold as their mouths pressed together deeply. It was a brief chaste kiss, they were in public after all but Seokjin had to stop himself from chasing Namjoon’s lips when the alpha pulled away, the applause of the crowd nothing more than a dull ringing in his ear. He needed more, Namjoon’s lips were addictive.
The alpha gave him a brilliant smile as he wound an arm around Seokjin’s waist, pulling him close as they faced the crowd together, the applause of the people drowning out the beating of Jin’s heart.
This was it. Seokjin was now a married man. Again.
---- ------- ----
The royal feast followed the wedding ceremony and the crowd slowly shifted to the ballroom, festooned with glistening tapestries and lit by a thousand flickering candles.
A huge feast was laid out to the side of the hall, the air filled with the intoxicating aroma of exotic dishes as the grandiose tables groaned under the weight of gold platters laden with culinary delights from every corner of the kingdom. Servants clad in livery moved gracefully between the tables, ensuring goblets were constantly replenished and platters were replaced with new, enticing dishes. Roasted game, succulent fruits, and dishes seasoned with rare spices adorned the feast, a testament to the Samar's wealth and prosperity.
The musical ensemble, positioned in a secluded alcove, filled the air with melodies that ranged from joyful to melancholic. The dance floor, illuminated by the soft glow of candelabras, beckoned guests to partake in a series of intricate dances.
The chandeliers overhead cast a warm, golden glow, illuminating the courtiers in their resplendent attire. The clinking of crystal goblets and the murmur of polite conversation created a symphony that resonated through the vast hall. Yet, beneath the veneer of celebration, an unspoken tension simmered, as the courtiers observed the royal couple with curious glances and hushed whispers.
Said couple sat at the dais at the end of the hall, patiently greeting guests who came to give their congratulations. Namjoon exuded calm authority, charming every guest who greeted them with a dimpled smile while Seokjin carefully composed his expressions, wanting to show just enough politeness to not come across as arrogant. Their hands were clasped together and if Namjoon could feel the sweat from Jin’s hand, he didn’t mention it.
The pile of wedding gifts grew as the day was starting to mature. The dance floor soon started bustling with people, bodies swaying to the tunes of the orchestra. Seokjin watched them impassively before sighing in exhaustion.
Namjoon was quiet for a long time before he finally stood up and turned to Jin, almost hesitating, “Would you like to…” his eyes flickered to the dance floor before coming back to meet Jin’s, a silent request.
Seokjin wanted to scoff. He didn’t remember the last time he’d ever danced.
“I don’t think I would make a very good dance partner.”
It was true. His previous husband had avoided having to dance with him as much as he could even in official events because of how much the omega stepped on his feet.
“That’s fine darling, I’m not any good either. But perhaps two stumbling fools would make a better picture than one?”
Seokjin rolled his eyes fondly before taking Namjoon’s outstretched hand. Fine, if Namjoon wanted him to stomp all over his toes then he would do just that!
As they stepped onto the dance floor, a hush fell over the assembled guests, their eyes fixed on the royal couple. Jin’s heart raced with all the attention on them but the grip of Namjoon’s hand around him calmed him down a little.
The orchestra picked up the music with even more enthusiasm and vigour than before as the couple took their places on the dance floor.
Namjoon carefully wound his arm around Jin’s waist, taking his hand to hold it up with the omega’s. Jin took a deep breath before placing his other hand on Namjoon’s shoulder, their bodies almost pressing against each other.
They started to sway to the tune a little awkwardly as their feet shuffled across the floor. Seokjin tried not to smile when he saw Namjoon trying to mentally count the steps in his head.
“Your hand feels cold.” Seokjin muttered and Namjoon chuckled, eyes crinkling beautifully, “It must be from the pressure of dancing with someone such as yourself.”
Jin raised an eyebrow, “And what kind of person would that be?”
Namjoon held his gaze for a few seconds before gently tipping Jin, his grip on the omega tightening ever so slightly, “Someone so distractingly beautiful that completing even the most simple task requires herculean effort.”
A bright crimson blush bloomed across Jin’s cheeks as Namjoon pulled them back up, going back to a simple dance as the music swelled. The courtiers watched on but Seokjin no longer paid attention to them, everything around him blurring to leave Namjoon solely occupying his entire vision.
“Careful then my king, you have a kingdom to run.” Jin teased.
Namjoon raised his hand from the omega’s waist to tuck back a loose strand of hair with an endeared expression, “I no longer have to worry about that now that half the responsibility is yours.”
Jin narrowed his eyes, “So this was your true intentions then all along wasn’t it? To pass over all your burdens to me so you are free to frolic all day?”
Namjoon widened his eyes exaggeratedly, “Oh no, you’ve seen right through me! It’s too late now that we’re married though, you’re stuck with me till death.”
They laughed, arms tightening around each other as their bodies pressed closer. But as the final notes of the waltz echoed through the ballroom, Seokjin’s smile faded away, the weight of Namjoon’s words settling over him, reminding him of the implications behind them. Seokjin could feel the alpha’s breath fanning over his face.
He slowly lowered his trembling hand from the alpha’s shoulder to place it over his heart, hearing it thunder under the strong flesh. Would he really be the one to make it stop? Could he really do it?
When Jin looked back up he gasped softly, Namjoon’s face was a lot closer than before, the alpha meeting his gaze with a heated stare, lips parted and pupils blown wide.
And no, the official ceremony was over. There was no need to display any more forced physical affection. Namjoon would never expect or force anything from him. He was no longer obligated to do any of that but Seokjin still reached forward to press their lips together.
The kiss was hungry and passionate, a desperate attempt to distract his mind from the terrible things he would do later that night and the feeling of Namjoon’s lips against his made him melt, had him grabbing the alpha closer, and made him clutch him harder. It was the deepest kiss they had shared, one that was too intimate to be shown publicly even though the courtiers erupted into polite applause, masking the undercurrent of tension that pulsed through the air.
When they pulled away Namjoon looked into his eyes questioningly as if he was searching for something. Seokjin quickly looked down, fingers fidgeting nervously. Namjoon noticed it and frowned.
“I’m feeling a little hungry.” Jin explained, “Can we please eat?”
Namjoon’s frown faded and he nodded, “Of course love.”
It was only when they had left the dancefloor that Seokjin realised he hadn’t stepped on the alpha’s feet even once while dancing.
---- ------- ----
The queen had thought that having food would perhaps ease the rising anxiety in his chest but it was of no help.
Even the finest of dishes tasted like sawdust in his mouth and he stopped after having a few bites of meat. It was a pity, Seokjin usually had the appetite of a baby elephant and the stuffed roasted pork looked especially delicious.
As the night progressed, several toasts were raised in honour of the royal couple, and the courtiers engaged in elaborate displays of camaraderie but Jin could barely even muster up enough energy to thank everyone.
He had noticed a little while that Yoongi was missing, probably having a dance with his own omega in some secluded corner. Whatever.
Time seemed to pass a little easily after that as the night darkened outside. Seokjin let out a huge sigh of relief when the wedding finally came to an end and people started to leave. The once crowded room got emptier and emptier until Namjoon was the only one left. The grand double doors closed behind them, leaving the echoing laughter and merriment of the celebration outside.
Their walk to the bedchambers was silent but the thoughts in the queen’s mind were not. How will the night pan out? Was Namjoon expecting something to happen between them tonight? If Jin resisted, would he force him into it? No, even if he was an alpha, Namjoon would never do that.
But he would definitely feel disappointed if Seokjin refused to consummate their marriage right? Afterall, it was something that all married couples did on their wedding night.
And most of all, would he be able to accomplish what he intended to do? If not, would he get caught? If he was, would Namjoon forgive him?
He carefully turned to look at his alpha who was walking at a leisurely pace with calm measured steps, admiring the night queen flowers blooming along the palace railings.
Seokjin entered their bedroom hesitantly, feeling extremely out of place. He’s seen the room before knowing that the room was also his from now would take a little getting used to. He awkwardly took a seat on the edge of the large mahogany bed, watching Namjoon wave off the attendants who were supposed to help them undress.
“You’re all dismissed for the day.” He told the remaining staff, surprising Jin a little at the words. What was going on Namjoon’s mind? He seemed a lot quieter than before and Jin didn’t know what to make of it. He wished the alpha would say something, anything, to get rid of this growing void between them.
The alpha finally turned to look at him once they were alone in the room, the tension filled silence stretching uncomfortably, “We don’t have to do anything tonight, I hope you know that.”
Seokjin blinked in surprise again, “Right…” he stammered awkwardly, “Thank you, it’s just that the day was very taxing and I-”
“It’s okay Seokjin, you don’t have to explain yourself. I understand.” Namjoon moved to the closet.
“I took the liberty of having the maids move your clothes to my room, I hope you don’t mind. Please change into more comfortable clothes, I’ll be outside the closet.”
Jinnoded mutely, it felt like his mind was somewhere far away from his body. He peeled away layer after layer of clothing robotically before slipping into a warm comfortable nightgown. He looked around carefully before strapping his dagger to his thigh under the nightgown, grateful for Namjoon’s absence. It would have been a pain to hide the dagger in front of the alpha otherwise. Once he was finally covered ready, he let Namjoon come back in and change, both of them settling under the covers after.
Silence grew louder between them like a rubber band stretching more and more until Namjoon finally sighed tiredly, “Goodnight Seokjin.” He lingered like he wanted to say but ultimately decided not to, closing his eyes instead.
Seokjin’s throat felt parched as he croaked out a weak goodnight, turning around with his back facing Namjoon. Now all he could do was wait for the right.
It didn’t take a long time for Namjoon to fall asleep, what with everything that happened today and all the days that went into preparing for it. But Seokjin didn’t dare turn back and waited longer than enough just to be sure that the alpha was deep in slumber.
When he was absolutely certain that Namjoon wasn’t getting up anytime soon, his trembling hand slowly crept towards his dagger and took it out. The moonlight gleamed against the cold metal and Seokjin’s knuckles turned white from how tightly he was clutching it. The room was cloaked in silence, interrupted only by the distant sounds of the cicadas chirping below.
The room looked different under the moonlight, the elaborate tapestries and ornate furnishings taking on an otherworldly quality. The scent of roses, mingling with the subtle fragrance of resting sandalwood, hung in the air, creating a deceptive serenity that belied the storm raging within the queen's soul.
Shadows danced in the corners of the room as the queen hovered on the precipice of an uncertain dawn.
Seokjin slowly turned to his other side to face Namjoon, eyes roaming over the sleeping alpha’s face. Namjoon looked so… innocent. His face looked so peaceful and calm, devoid of the weight of the crown and all the burdens that came with it. All his sharp features softened in the vulnerability of slumber. He was resting on his back, hands curled into loose fists at his sides, head tilted slightly towards Jin.
Seokjin gulped before inching forward, slowly and quietly until he was hovering right above Namjoon’s sleeping figure. With each passing moment, the dagger seemed to grow heavier in his hand. The moon, now framed by the arched window, watched in silent witness as Jin took a deep breath and prepared himself.
This brute of an alpha killed Seokjin’s people, snatched away his crown for himself and mocked his royal power.
Now, Seokjin could finally get his revenge after so long. He could easily pretend to wake up in the morning with a scream and sob over the news of his loving husband’s murder. Noone could question him, no one would have the power to do so. Samar would rightfully be his, only his.
Duty, like an oppressive spectre, whispered in his ear, reminding him of all the horrible things that led up to this moment. Yet, beneath the veneer of selfish vengeance, a flicker of humanity struggled to emerge.
Seokjin was scared of what was inside his mind, what was inside his soul. For a second, he was starting to understand Yoongi’s words. He was running but getting nowhere and the only one getting tired was him. He could no longer recognise himself. All these conflicting emotions reached a crescendo and were starting to suffocate him, Jin couldn’t breathe. It was starting to drive him insane, like a fever rising inside his veins.
Seokjin’s eyes, however, remained fixed on the slumbering figure next to him. The conflict within his heart intensified as memories of shared laughter, stolen glances, and moments of quiet understanding flooded his mind. Of their adventures in the woods, quiet meals shared in comfortable silence, the feeling of Namjoon’s lips against his own, the warmth of being in the alpha’s arms.
Seokjin saw drops of water fall onto the blade of his dagger and it took him a moment to realise that it was actually his tears. Why was he crying? Was this not what he wanted?
Beads of sweat clung to his forehead even though the night was cold under the moonlight, with its shroud of secrecy. The realisation that he held not just a weapon but the power to alter the course of destinies weighed heavily upon him. But what more was one man’s death? And his enemy at that?
Seokjin had killed many people before, what more was one alpha to him?
But the alpha was Namjoon, the man who never seemed to leave his mind even in his sleep.
The omega hung his head, feeling the cold metal dig into his skin as he debated with his mind about the fate of his new husband. He gripped the dagger and raised it slowly to Namjoon’s chest, a blade an inch away from piercing the skin.
And just for one tiny moment, the queen's resolve wavered, the dagger held in trembling hands now a mere extension of his internal conflict. He hesitated, caught in the gravitational pull of his own heart, and for a fleeting moment, the weight of vengeance seemed to yield to the fragile threads of affection that bound them.
This is it, one deep stab and he would be free of his problems.
The entire world, bathed in moonlight, seemed to hold its breath, awaiting the revelation of Seokjin’s decision—one that would echo through the corridors of power, leaving in its wake either the silence of fulfilled duty or the tumult of weak defeat. Seokjin let out a breath he hadn’t realised he had been holding and lifted his head back up, face paling and blood freezing as he came face to face with a fully awake Namjoon, staring right back into his eyes.