Chapter Text
It was one of those stifling hot summers. The air felt thick and close, almost suffocating as Jimin sat on the window sill, praying for even a breath of wind to come his way, but there was nothing. Not even the hint of a breeze. He leaned his head back against the normally cool stone, it felt almost warm to the touch. Nothing seemed to relieve the oppressive heat. He needed to get out of the castle. The thought of the harbour’s cool water had him slipping off the window sill and heading out of his bedroom. The castle was quiet, it still unnerved him at times. It was so frequently full of people but now there wasn't a soul to be seen. The war had taken so many away to the front lines. All that was left in the castle were the bare bones needed to keep everything running. And of course Jimin and his mother. While his mother was happy to be locked away safe in the castle, Jimin had only contempt for the stone walls. He should be out there fighting alongside his people, but as the prince, no, as an omega, he wasn’t permitted to join the ranks of their kingdom’s military. He tried his best to push those thoughts from his mind, not wanting to get bogged down with his unhappiness at his father’s decision when he overheard something that made his stomach sink.
As he passed by the drawing room his father’s deep voice emanated from the crack in the door, he stilled, what was his father doing home? He should be at the western edge of the kingdom where the fighting was. What was he doing back? He moved closer to the door, holding his breath as he listened in.
“I just don’t know what else we’re supposed to do. Things aren’t going well, our troops are falling faster than we can replace them.” His father said.
“I trust your decisions, whatever you do is for the best of our kingdom, our people.” Jimin heard his mother reply. “You will find a way.”
“I truly hope so, we need to find away to push back their advances, what we need more boots on the ground.” His father said.
Jimin could hear the worry in his father’s tone, could smell it in his heavy scent that wafted through the crack in the door. Before he could be discovered eavesdropping Jimin hurried away and out of the castle. His mind plagued with worry. By what his father said the war was going much worse than Jimin could’ve imagined. He wouldn’t be saying things like this if they weren’t in trouble. His father was a pragmatic man, could always fix a problem. Of course Jimin knew their army wasn’t the strongest, they were a kingdom of the water, if their enemy had came from the sea it would’ve been a different story. Their navy was one of legends, no one could beat them on the open seas. But the enemy came from the west and the lands that stretched out beyond their borders. Their foot soldiers were small in numbers and weak, untested in battle. Jimin had spent his childhood training alongside them. While an omega wouldn’t normally be allowed to train with the sword, Jimin was a stubborn child and a had badgered his father relentlessly until he’d given in and allowed Jimin to join the young alphas in their training. Much to everyone's surprise, Jimin had excelled in the sword. He had bested every one of his fellow students. The sword master had nothing but praise for him. That hadn’t made any difference to his father though, not when it really mattered. When the alphas he’d spent years training along side had been called up to join the war effort, Jimin had been left behind. Even with the limited numbers available.
“The battlefield is no place for an omega Jimin.” His father had told him.
Jimin had argued and begged but it had all fallen on deaf ears. As he made his way down to the harbour he was beginning to wonder if now would be his chance. If they were so desperate for more soldiers, surely it would make sense to stop this stupid no omegas rule. Jimin’s abilities should be enough, and he wanted to fight for his kingdom. He wanted to be there with his people not hiding away in the castle like a coward.
The harbour was a cacophony of people as he made his way down the cobbled streets, such a difference from the too quiet castle. The omegas and betas of the kingdom keeping society going while the alphas were away at war. Fishermen selling their day’s catch bellowed loudly as he passed by and children ran around laughing despite the oppressive heat. Jimin didn’t know how they had the energy, all he wanted to do was sink into the cool waters. He made his way along the familiar paths until he reached the small cut that led down to the beach. It was a small cove near the harbour, a place where he’d spent most summers growing up. As his feet his the sand he spotted a familiar figure wading in the shallow water.
“Thought I’d find you here.” Jimin said, as he kicked off his boots.
Taehyung turned to grin at him, his wide boxy smile almost as bright as the sun shining above them.
“Surprised you didn’t escape sooner, did Sejin catch you sneaking out again?” Taehyung asked as Jimin rolled up his pants and waded out into the surf.
The cool water washing over his feet and ankles was an instant relief from the heat. It felt too nice and he almost threw himself into the water entirely, not even caring about his clothing.
“Pretty sure he saw me, but I think there’s more pressing matters at hand than me coming down here.” Jimin told him.
“Oh?”
“My father is home.” Jimin revealed.
“What? When did he get back?” Taehyung asked, brushing his sandy blond hair back off his face.
“Don’t know, I just overheard him and mother talking as I was heading out.” Jimin said, “it looks like things aren’t going well with the war.”
“Really? What did he say?”
“Something about not knowing what to do, that they’re losing men faster than they can replace them.” Jimin said, that sinking feeling returning to his stomach as he repeated his father’s words.
“Shit, that’s bad.”
“Yeah.”
Jimin gazed out to sea, he could see one of their huge ships anchored just beyond the harbour. If only they could take to the seas, things would be so much easier.
“What is going to do?” Taehyung asked.
“No idea, but I’m hoping this will finally make him see reason and let me join the ranks.” Jimin said, turning back to Taehyung.
He saw his friend’s face crumple at the mention of his joining the war effort, his normally gentle scent deepening. Taehyung had always had his reservations about Jimin becoming a soldier. The omega often echoing his parent’s sentiments that he should stay at home where it was safe. Jimin knew it was only due to him caring about Jimin and not wanting him to risk his life, but it didn’t irritate him any less. Taehyung should understand Jimin’s desire to go. He should understand that he didn’t want to be held back just because he was an omega.
“Do you really think he will change his mind?” Taehyung asked.
“Does he have a choice? If they have no alphas left to fight, what else can they do?” Jimin snapped. “Its about time he and all the other knot-heads understood that being an omega doesn’t mean we can’t fight.”
“Doesn’t mean you can’t. Most omegas have never even seen a weapon, let alone know how to use one.” Taehyung commented, “myself included.”
“I- okay sure, but they can learn! You could learn! I could train you!” Jimin said.
“What if I don’t want to learn?” Taehyung retorted. “I’m not like you Mimi, I don’t want to go to war, I don’t have a death wish.”
“I don’t have a death wish.” Jimin retorted. “I just want to do what’s right, I want to fight for my people.”
This wasn’t the first time they’d argued about it. Taehyung just wasn’t the fighting type. He was happier to just do his own thing, avoiding conflict where he could. They had grown up together, Taehyung was his closest friend. He was the son of one of the castle staff, and since he and Jimin were the same age it had seemed natural that they would play together. They were joint at the hip as children, but as they grew up they definitely developed their own, very different, personalities. Jimin still loved him though, even if they didn’t agree on some things. It was what he liked about him in fact, that he constantly challenged him. Unlike like a lot of others who felt that they just had to go with what he said or did as he told them since he was the prince. Jimin had never wanted that. He wasn’t any better for simply being born into a title.
“I know you don’t, but you’ve got to understand how dangerous it is. Especially being the prince.” Taehyung said, “you’d have a target on your back before you even stepped foot on the battlefield.”
Jimin had to admit he had a point with that, and maybe if that was his father’s reasoning for not sending him to join their troops he would’ve accepted it more. But the only reason his father wasn’t sending him due to him being an omega. He didn’t think his father would ever step away from the old traditions. As far as he was concerned omegas belonged in the home, raising pups and knowing their place.
“Wouldn’t that be the same if I were an alpha though?” Jimin questioned.
“I guess…”
“It would be, but I’d still be there. The only reason I’m not is because of my sub-gender, and its a joke.” Jimin told him.
Taehyung accepted defeat, not wanting to argue anymore. Jimin didn’t blame him really, he knew how he could get when he started on about omega treatment. He just hated how they were seen as lower than alphas. They were no less capable or brave. He had hoped one day it would change in their kingdom, especially with how lax his father had been with him and his inability to hold his tongue. Yet nothing had really changed and it probably never would. And it wasn’t even like he could make those changes, he would never become king. His younger brother was already showing signs that he would present as an alpha, and that would nullify any claim to the throne that Jimin had as the oldest son. It was all so wrong and he hated it.
***
Jimin only got an hour down at the marina before one of the guards was sent down to retrieve him. He supposed he should be grateful he even got that long. He wasn’t supposed to leave the castle grounds unescorted. Taehyung walked back up to the castle with him, before disappearing into the staff quarters as Jimin joined his parents for dinner.
“What have I told you about going out of the castle without an escort?” His father said as a way of greeting.
Jimin slipped into his chair, and began to fill his plate.
“I was with Taehyung.” He said.
“That’s not good enough, Taehyung cannot protect you.” His father said.
“I can protect myself.” Jimin retorted. “What are you doing back anyway? Isn’t there a war going on?”
“Jimin, mind your tongue.” His mother warned.
“It’s fine, there’s no point in beating about the bush. Things aren’t looking good right now, and its time for you to step up for your kingdom.” His father said.
Jimin’s heart raced in his chest. This was it. He was going to join the legions of alphas on the front line, to fight for his kingdom. He was ready to accept his father’s request.
“You will travel to the northern mountain kingdom to be wed.”
The room fell silent as Jimin’s world seemed to come crashing down around him. All he could do for a moment was stare at his father in disbelief. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing and how blasé his father had been about saying it.
“I… what?!?” Jimin stammered out. “What are you talking about?!”
“The Min family have agreed upon our families union. You will marry their son and our kingdoms will become close allies.” His father explained.
“No, this isn’t fair!” Jimin said, slamming his fork down. “I don’t want to marry some foreign alpha!”
“Jimin please…” His mother began, but his father cut her off.
“This isn’t a request Jimin. We leave tomorrow morning.”
“Father please, you can’t make me do this.” Jimin said, he could feel the thickness in his throat forming. Tears pricking at the corners of his eyes.
A marriage? He was supposed to marry some strange alpha from another kingdom? Jimin had always known the possibility of an arranged marriage hung over his head, but never had he thought his father would use him as a bargaining tool. To practically sell him to another kingdom to form an alliance. Jimin didn’t want to get married and mate… oh god he’d have to mate with this stranger. He felt sick.
“This isn’t fair. I don’t want to get married. I don’t want to go to some other kingdom and mate with… with… a stranger.” Jimin said, “I should be joining the fighting. If things are so bad I should be there with our warriors, not shipped off to be some alpha’s bitch.”
“Park Jimin!” His mother cried, but he didn’t care.
It hurt. It hurt that his parents would do this to him, that they would be happy to just send him off to be claimed by some strange alpha whom he’d never met. That they would spit it out like it was some easy thing and he should just accept it like he did his morning breakfast. His head swam as he tried to think about what to say, what to think. His stomach clenched and his throat thick. He wanted to cry and scream but he couldn’t get them out.
“You’ve constantly been on my back to let you do your part, and this is it.” His father said, “this is what needs to be done to secure our kingdom’s future. The mountain kingdom has a strong army, following your union with their prince, they will join our men and we will conquer our enemies once and for all.”
Jimin couldn’t think of a response, anger surged through him and he knew he’d only end up saying things he didn’t mean if he stayed. So he pushed back his plate, his food untouched, and stormed out of the dining room. Tears were streaming down his face by the time he reached Taehyung’s room. His chest tight as he flung the door open. Taehyung jumped at the intrusion, but the moment he saw Jimin he scrambled to his feet from where he sat on the floor and pulled Jimin into the room and into his arms.
***
Jimin lost track of time as he lay curled up on Taehyung’s bed. His head ached from the crying, eyes bloodshot and sore. Taehyung had cried with him when he told him what his father had said. What was to become of him. Both of them aware of what awaited Jimin in the mountain kingdom. Jimin didn’t know much about their royal family, or their alpha son, and the little Taehyung had heard wasn’t great. The alpha prince was apparently the general in their army, and a typical brutish alpha. The very kind of alpha that Jimin so feared. His own father was like that, gruff and traditional. Jimin knew he often pushed his luck with his father in his talking back and aversion to typical omega traits. This new alpha, his soon to be husband, would not welcome this. He would have to change everything he was, would have to bend to the will of another man, against everything he believed in. He didn't want to consider the alternative. To face the wrath of this unknown alpha.
“Maybe since he’s the general you won’t see him much. He’ll be joining the war after all.” Taehyung said, as he carded a hand through Jimin’s hair.
All Jimin could do was hum in response.
“You’ll probably just spend all of your time doing needle work and raising your ch-“
“Don’t say it. Tae, please. I don’t want to think about that.” Jimin interjected.
The thought of children, of baring pups made him feel a million times worse. That would be expected though, why else would they want their prince to marry an omega if it wasn’t to produce an heir? Only Jimin had never wanted pups. He loved kids, but he’d never wanted one of his own. Now it would be his role. That would be his life.
“Sorry, you’re right. Let’s not think about that.” Taehyung said.
He could smell the sourness in Taehyung’s scent. The hurt he was feeling for Jimin. Taehyung had always been very empathetic and Jimin hated that he was making him feel like this. But he couldn’t bring himself to leave. He needed his best friend’s comfort. That familiar scent of lavender and camomile, with just a hint of salty sea air. His scent reminded him of the beach on a summer night, Taehyung was truly a son of the sea. It was a familiar trait within the southern kingdom, to have a scent that had a hint of the sea within it. Jimin’s wasn’t like that though. Taehyung had always said it smelled sweet and earthy, like a garden in the summertime. He’d miss the smell of the sea, the thought of never getting to smell that salty air again making his stomach clench again. He tried not to think about it. He wanted to forget it all, to run away and not face the reality that was to come in the morning. But he didn’t know how he could do that. He knew there was a guard outside the door, Taehyung’s mom had told them when she’d brought sandwiches an hour ago having learned Jimin hadn’t eaten dinner. She had asked why the guard was there, and Jimin knew immediately it was to prevent him from leaving the castle. He hated his father in that moment. That he was taking away the little freedom he had left. Even on his supposed last night he was trapped. Unable to escape the future that awaited him.
“You should try and eat something.” Taehyung said.
“M’not hungry.” Jimin mumbled into his arm.
“Mom made your favourite, come on, you’ll only feel worse if you’re starving on top of everything else.”
Taehyung pretty much lifted him up into a sitting position and plied him with the sandwiches. Jimin had to admit they tasted good, even if he felt numb, Mrs Kim’s cooking always tasted good. Eventually he headed up to his own bedroom, it was late now. The stars shining brightly through his still open window. The guard followed him up to his room, offering him a sad smile as Jimin closed his door. He knew, he knew what Jimin was facing in the morning. Everyone in the castle probably knew by now. All the people he’d grown up with, the guards and the staff, they were like an extension of his family. How was he supposed to leave them? To leave his home and be married off to some stranger? He climbed back up onto the windowsill, the same one he’d sat on hours earlier, looking out over the citadel. His citadel, his home. Only it wouldn’t be for much longer. He’d never imagined upon seeing his father that afternoon, that he had come to bare this news. That Jimin’s whole life was about to be upended and torn apart. Again all he could think of was running away, but where would he go? An unmated omega, out in the wilderness alone would only bring trouble, even if he could handle a blade. He had no option but to do as his father demanded. After all, denying it would only bring shame to his family. What kind of prince would not do the one thing they needed to help their kingdom survive the war?
He watched as the clouds shifted and revealed the moon, a new moon, only a tiny sliver visible against the dark sky. A new moon, signifying a new life that was about to begin for him. Jimin felt an overwhelming sense of sadness. He couldn’t have imagined this would be the way his life would play out, maybe he had been kidding himself, but he just hadn’t believed it. He thought his father would eventually cave in and let him join the army or at worst, leave him here to look after his mother. But he was to be sent off, to be sent away and start a new life full of unknowns.
Jimin gazed up at the new moon and hoped that he would make it through to the next one.
***
The next morning came far too quickly. Jimin hadn’t slept a wink and he felt exhausted both physically and mentally. Part of him hoped it had all been a dream, that he would simply wake up from the nightmare that was ahead of him.
It had not been a dream.
It was early when his handmaid woke him, or rather made him get up from his bed where he had been lying staring up at the ceiling. While he bathed and dressed his belongings were packed and loaded into the coach. Both of his parents were absent from breakfast, only his younger brother sat at the table. Even Taehyung was nowhere to be found, which Jimin found the most hurtful. Where was he? Surely he would come to see him off?
“Have you seen Taehyung?” Jimin asked Jihyun while he pushed his eggs around his plate.
“No, maybe he’s working?” His brother said, before adding, “do you really have to leave?”
“Its what father wants, so yes.” Jimin said.
He felt a wave of guilt as he looked over at his brother, he hadn’t noticed, too wrapped up in his own unhappiness, but Jihyun looked upset his normally sweet scent tinged with the bitterness of sour lemons. His normally bright eyes rimmed with red and mouth turned down in a frown. It hadn’t even occurred to him that his brother would be upset at his leaving. Jimin had only thought of himself.
“I’m sure you’ll be able to come and visit once everything is settled again.” Jimin said, reaching over take his baby brother’s hand.
It was sometimes hard to believe that Jihyun was so much younger than Jimin, he was already taller than him and broader across the shoulders. It was only his boyish face that gave it away. He was still just a kid, but on his way to adulthood, something that would come a lot sooner the moment Jimin left. He realised that now, with both him and his father gone Jihyun would become the man of the house. A lot of reasonability for someone so young. He hadn’t even presented yet, though Jimin was almost certain it would be soon, and that he would be an alpha.
“I don’t want you to go.” Jihyun said, voice small.
“I don’t want to go either, but its what needs to be done for the good of the kingdom.” Jimin said, his voice a little thick. “We both need to step up now, it will be on you to look after mother. You’ll need to train extra hard and keep her safe while father is away.”
“I will.”
“Good, I’m going to miss you so much, but I promise to come and visit as soon as possible.” Jimin assured him.
Tears welled in his eyes now and Jihyun’s were the same. It was across their eyes that they were the most similar, no one could deny they were brothers, especially in their eyes. Jimin hated seeing his baby brother’s eyes filled with tears. He stood up, walking round the side of the table and pulling Jihyun up and into a hug. Jihyun buried his nose in Jimin’s neck, inhaling his scent for what was probably the last time. Jimin’s heart ached, but he needed to be strong for his brother. What he had said was true, it was time for them to step up, no matter how much they didn’t want to. Jimin would go to the mountains, and Jihyun would take his place as the heir to their kingdom.
Jimin headed out to the courtyard shortly after, unable to force himself to eat much more than a few pieces of toast. His parents were already outside, his mother giving orders to the staff as they loaded Jimin’s trunks onto the carriage.
“Have you seen Taehyung?” Jimin asked, “I can’t leave without saying goodbye.”
“Taehyung has already left.” His father said, barely looking at Jimin.
“What do you mean, where did he go?” Jimin asked, confused but his father ignored him as did his mother. Neither of them meeting his gaze as they went about the last preparations for their departure.
All Jimin could do was look around in search for his friend, hoping to catch that familiar scent on the air. That had to be some kind of mistake, where was he? What had his father meant by already left? Surely any errand that needed to be done could’ve waited until after Jimin’s departure. He couldn’t imagine his best friend letting him leave without saying goodbye. And yet nothing.
It wasn’t until Jihyun came running out moments before they were set to leave that he knew something was very wrong.
“Hyung! Wait!” He cried, running up to Jimin who was about to climb into the carriage after his mother.
“What is it?” He asked, turning back to his brother.
Jihyun pulled Jimin into a hug much to his surprise. They had already said their goodbye at breakfast, but he quickly realised that the hug was just a rouse, he felt something slip into his pocket.
“From Taehyung.” Jihyun whispered before pulling away and adding more audibly, “safe journey.”
All Jimin could do was nod, and give his brother one last squeeze of his hand before stepping away and climbing up into the carriage. His mother was watching him, but she offered no comment, turning to look out of the window the moment Jimin sat down and the door was closed behind him. Apparently she was not bothered that her sons were saying goodbye for what could be the last time. The carriage rattled to life, bumping over the cobbled stones of the courtyard and towards the main gates. Jimin heart ached as they headed out of the northern gates, but as he watched the citadel disappear into the distance he gripped the letter in his pocket. Hoping it had the answers his parents refused to give him.
***
The journey to the mountain kingdom was long and Jimin was grateful when they came to rest in a small inn for the night. He was even more grateful for the privacy of his own room. He hadn’t uttered a word to his mother the entire journey. Burying his nose in a book once they set out on old road that took them north, not that he’d read much. The letters on the pages blurring into each other as his mind tried to think of anything but what awaited him in the north and the letter stuffed into his pocket. It was better than trying to talk to his mother though. He knew whatever he said would only turn to anger and hurt, it was better to not speak at all. He’d never been particularly close with his mother, but the fact that she hadn't even argued on his behalf at his father’s wishes had hurt. He had thought she at least would’ve understood, after all, she had faced the same fate as he. An arranged marriage to an unknown alpha. But it appeared she didn’t care about his feelings anymore than his father did.
He suffered through a silent dinner with his parents. His father more interested in talking war strategies with his hand who joined them in the dining room. Jimin didn’t particularly like his father’s hand, he was an arrogant man, who was very much in the mind that omegas were beneath him. Probably why he didn’t have a mate, what omega would want to be touched by an alpha like that. Horrible brute.
As soon as he could, he excused himself to bed and locked himself away in the tiny room that had been assigned to him. The faded bedsheets rough and unwelcoming. He missed his room at the castle already and the stuffy room was overbearingly hot even after sundown. He pulled the letter from Taehyung from where he’d tucked it under his pillow when they’d arrived and broke the wax seal, unfolding the paper, his heart clenching at the sight of his friend’s untidy writing.
Dear Jimin,
I don’t have much time, I am to join the war. They came to me early this morning to say I would be leaving. It was only thanks to mother that I had time to write this, she is distracting the chaperone. I know what you’re thinking, but you’re an omega. And its true, I was shocked myself, but they need medics and I am to help them. How I wish I could tell you this in person and hug you one last time. I don’t know if I’ll ever see you again Mimi, and I’m scared. You were always so much braver than me, and yet I’m the one being sent off to war. I will try my best to write, but I don’t know the circumstances in which I’ll be placed. Please be safe, I miss you already and I love you.
Your Taehyung x
Jimin eyes filled with tears once again. No, how could this be happening? Taehyung was supposed to be safe. He was supposed to be safe away from all of that in the castle. How could they send him away? After everything that had happened, this on top of everything felt like a critical blow. Jimin’s heart felt like it was shattered into a million pieces. It should be him going to the front line, not his Taehyung. Not his best friend and soulmate.
***
After crying himself to sleep again that night, he was in no mood for pleasantries and chose to skip breakfast rather than look at his father. That man knew where Taehyung had been sent and instead of telling him, he’d chosen not to. He’d purposefully left Jimin confused and hurt at his friend’s absence when they’d departed the castle. Anger bubbled under the surface as he sat in the carriage waiting for his mother to finish breakfast.
“You should’ve ate. We have a long journey ahead and we won’t be stopping at an inn like that again any time soon.” She said when she finally joined him and they set off again.
“I lost my appetite when I found out father sent my best friend away without giving me the chance to say goodbye.” Jimin snapped.
His mother’s eyes went wide in surprise, “how… well it was for the best.”
“So you knew and didn’t think to tell me either?” Jimin retorted.
“It would’ve only upset you further.”
“Not getting to say goodbye is what upset me!” Jimin all but yelled. “He’s my best friend.”
“He’s a servant boy.”
“A- how could you say that? He was like family to me, do you really care so little?” Jimin asked.
The comment had been like a knife to the heart. He’d never thought of Taehyung like that, and he’d never thought his parents had either, but now, now he was wondering if he’d just been deluding himself this whole time. Had they really only thought of him a servant boy? Jimin had always viewed him as someone akin to a brother. They had grown up at one another’s side. Even Jihyun thought of him as a part of their family, him sneaking the letter to him proved that.
“Do not take my words wrongly Park Jimin, you know what I meant.” His mother said.
“Actually I don’t. But you know what, it doesn’t matter. Its clear neither you nor father care about my feelings, otherwise you wouldn’t be making me do this in the first place.” Jimin said, turning away from his mother.
He kept his eyes on the window and the passing world. The sky overhead was grey, the land that sprawled out below it dry and dead from the summer heat.
“There was no other way. You have no idea what we are facing with this war, how close to defeat we are. Do you really think we care so little about you that this was not the last resort?” His mother asked, when Jimin didn’t answer she continued. “We have done everything to give you the life that you wished, despite it going against everything our traditions hold true. Your father has been more than lenient with you. Do you really think any other omega would have as much free reign as you do? Do you think other omegas are allowed to speak to their alpha the way you do, or do the things that your father allowed you to?”
Jimin wanted to argue, but she was right. He had been given leniency and free reign despite his omega status.
“So why take it all away now? Why give me that freedom only to take it all away and force me to be something I’m not?” Jimin asked, finally turning to face her again.
“Because despite your beliefs, you are an omega Jimin. The same as I am and this is what we must shoulder. This is our role. We are not alphas, and you will never be the same as them. You will never be equal to them. No matter how much you train with a sword, you will always be beneath them. You will always be just an omega, only good for one thing.”
Her voice cracked and she turned away from him and Jimin realised in that moment what his mother had given up all those years ago. What he would have to give up now. Being an omega meant having no freedom, no real choices. They were only good for one thing, and that was baring children and raising them.
“Eomma…”
“Please Jimin, don’t fight this. It will only make things harder for you.” His mother said, her tone defeated and it made his heart hurt.
He knew what she meant. They both knew too well what she meant. An omega who did not submit, would be made to submit. It was something he never thought he would have to face. After all, he’s the prince. His parents had never made him feel like he had to, but that had been far from the truth. Reality felt like a lead weight in his stomach, pulling him deeper and deeper underwater. Suffocating him and swallowing him whole.
“I never wanted this for you. Never. In a perfect world you would marry someone from court, an alpha you knew. But life does not allow for a perfect world.” She said, turning away from Jimin, looking out of the window and the grey sky stretched out beyond them. “You must do what is necessary for your family, for your people, and you will do it with honour as the son of Park Minsun that you are.”
She returned her gaze back to Jimin and he could see the tears welled in her eyes and for the first time since he was a child Jimin felt the strong bond between them strengthen. They had never been close, but she had never stopped loving him. Perhaps fighting for him behind closed doors. He could smell it on her scent, that familiar jasmine that he remembered from his childhood, from his protective mother who would shield him from the cruelty of the world.
“I’m sorry for how I’ve acted.” Jimin said, his voice quiet.
“Do not be sorry for fighting for yourself, but know when it is time to concede.” She said, taking his hand in hers.
Her skin was slightly paler than his, wrinkled with age. Jewels sat heavy on her fingers, the mark of a queen. He ran his thumb over the only ring which was not laden with gemstones. The simple silver band, a wave etched into the metal, the symbol of their family. Pulling her hand from his, she slipped the ring from her finger and into his palm.
“You will soon join a new family, but you will always be a part of ours.”
Jimin closed his fingers around the ring, holding it tight so that the metal dug into his skin.
They fell into silence, his mother done talking and Jimin to drained to even try anything more. He had so many thoughts and feelings swirling around inside of him he didn’t know what to do. The thought of running away was still niggling at the back of his mind. The next time they stopped to rest, he could just take one of the horses and go. He was out of practice, but he used to be a good rider, he could probably make it quite far. But he didn’t even know where they were now. The terrain beyond their carriage had quickly become unfamiliar. The ever changing landscape foreign to him. He had no where to go, except towards the mountains far away in the distance. The mountains that would become his home.
***
They travelled through the whole day, only stopping once night fell and the horses began to slow. There was no inn this time. His father and the guards who had been riding ahead pitching tents for them to sleep in. Jimin still refrained from talking to his father, but he did at least join them for a meal around the small fire. It was colder now that they had travelled further north. The night air making him shiver even as he sat as close to the fire as possible. It was strange how quickly the air had changed as they drew further north, had Jimin wondering how different it would be once they reached the mountains. His mother took the carriage at his father’s insistence and Jimin was glad the king at least showed some concern for his wife, even if he seemed to have none for his son. It was a chilly and uncomfortable night and Jimin found himself actually happy when they set off again with the sunrise. While he’d hated the heat back home, it felt like a comforting blanket now that he was out in an unknown world, the chill seeping into his skin like a plague.
The week long journey would play out much like this, no more inns to rest in as they traversed the lands to reach the northern boarders. Jimin refused to speak to his father the entire journey. He couldn’t bring himself to do it, not when he showed no remorse towards his choice to marry Jimin off to some strong alpha, and even more so because of what he did to Taehyung. His mother at least showed her sadness at losing her oldest son, cracks in her usually contained emotions showing every now and then. They refrained for talking about it as they sat in the chilly carriage, but her hand would come to rest atop his on occasion, a touch of comfort in a time Jimin didn’t know what to think or speak, or even feel. As their journey went on, all he felt was fear and emptiness. Like a his heart had been carved out of his chest and filled with terror at what lay in the mountains ahead of him. A part of his heart seeping away with each mile they traveled, much like the heat of the blazing summer ebbing away the further north they went. When their driver announced that they were on their final leg of the journey, that they would reach the mountains by nightfall, despair seemed to overtake all other feelings and all Jimin could do was gaze out of the window and watch as the looming shadows in the distance grew larger.
***
As their final day on the road grew on, the mountains slowly crept into sight. The road narrowed and the landscape around them growing wilder with every mile. It was so different from his home in the south. Their kingdom was filled with lush fields and open farmland. Here though, it was wild and unkept. Like nature had been let loose from it’s restraints. It scared Jimin a little, he couldn’t see what was beyond the road, only the dense trees that lined the bumpy road. He had no idea what was hidden amongst those trees, what beasts lay waiting. Was all of the mountain kingdom like this? Were the people there savages like the beasts that roamed wild amongst the brush?
“What’s the mountain kingdom like?” Jimin asked his mother.
She lifted her head from the needlework she had been using to distract herself on the long journey.
“I’ve never been there myself. I grew up in the east as you know.” She told him, “but from what I’ve heard it is a smaller citadel than ours. The castle itself built into the mountain side, looking out over it. There is a river that runs through it, and while our main industry is fishing, there’s is mining. The mountains are said to filled with precious metals and gemstones.”
“How come no one has ever invaded if they have such a valuable industry?” Jimin asked.
“Their army, its the strongest to ever exist. Stories say their castle and citadel have never been penetrated. Not once. Its a stronghold and the reason why we must join with them.” She said.
Jimin thought about the castle, trying to picture it built into the face of the mountain. He couldn’t imagine it. Their castle sat atop the cliffside, looking out over the sea. Their strength was the sea after all. He ran his finger over the wave imprinted into the ring his mother had given him which now sat on his index finger. It was why they were losing the war. They were unstoppable on water, but on land they were weak. They had always been weak and it was something his father should’ve done something about a long time ago. Their kingdom spread out beyond the water, miles of villages and farmlands lay behind their citadel on the coast. All of it so vulnerable. It was the west that was attacking. Not coming from the sea but from land, and it was all they could do to hold them at bay. Jimin understood why it was important to unite with the mountain kingdom, if their army was as strong as people said it was, they could help turn the tide and even bring this devastating war to an end. They could bring it to an end and Taehyung could come home.
The thought of Taehyung made his stomach clench with unease. He had no idea where he was or what he was doing. Had he joined them on the front line yet? Was he safe? Even the thought of it had him feeling anxious. All Jimin wanted was for him to be safe. Maybe he could speak to his new husband about it, if he was a general in their army maybe he could have some sway, get Taehyung sent home. It gave him another reason to listen to his mother’s advice, to be on his best behaviour. That would be the best way to gain support from the alpha. He hated it, but he would do anything to help his friend.
***
As the afternoon light began to fade the beginnings of the mountain kingdom came into view. They passed through a small village nestled on the edge of the forest. He could see the timber yard that it centred around, huge piles of logged trees and the scent of freshly chopped wood heavy in the air, but it wasn’t unpleasant, Jimin actually quite liked the smell. They didn’t have any forests in the south, only sparse woodland, this was dense forestry, trees as far as the eye could see at times. As they travelled further into the kingdom the trees lessened and villages popped up, houses surrounded by farmland and wood mills, and the mountains that grew taller the closer they got. Their tops shrouded by the thick clouds that hung above them threatening rain, an intimidating presence looking down over the kingdom as the sun began its descent behind them. The sun had fully set when the citadel finally came into view. Nestled at the base of the mountain, Jimin could see the lights of the buildings as they flickered to life before their eyes. The citadel looked strange in the way it started at the base and spread up the side of the mountain, the castle at its highest point a few hundred feet above ground level.
It was a spectacular sight, Jimin hadn’t known what to expect but it was an incredible sight to see. He’d always thought their own castle was impressive, but this fortress built into the mountainside was an another level. It was a lot bigger, and just looked stronger. Jimin understood how it could be impenetrable. He couldn’t see any way of getting inside. The walls that surrounded the citadel were tall, and just as formidable. The huge gates that they stopped in front of intimidating. Anxiety flooded through him as they waited, he could hear his father’s booming voice talking to the guards and then the gates slowly creaked open and their carriage trundled on. Inside the walls was alive with live. Jimin leaned out of the window taking it all in as they made their way along the winding road that led to the castle. Lanterns lit the streets and he could hear music and chatter drifting out from the inns. There was even a night market, alive with the bustle of people and the smells of all sorts of foods Jimin couldn’t place. His stomach grumbled as it hit his nose. It reminded him of the festivals back home, the citadel alive with life and music. He had known nothing of the mountain kingdom, he’d created some cold and soulless idea of it in his mind, picturing only the grey snow-capped mountains. But this was nothing like that. It was thriving the way his home used to before the war. It made him miss it all the more.
***
“Welcome to the mountains.”
Upon arrival at the castle Jimin and his parents were greeted not by the king he was expecting, but the omega queen. She was beautiful, her long hair falling in waves over her pale shoulders. The silver circlet bright against the black strands.
“My apologies, but my wife and our sons have been called to an emergency at one of the mines.” The queen informed them.
Her wife… that mean the alpha was a woman. Female alphas were rare, and Jimin hadn’t been expecting it. He was surprised his father hadn’t mentioned it. Though really he shouldn’t have been, his father never was one to approve of rare things like a female alpha ruling a kingdom.
“I do hope nothing serious has happened.” His own mother commented.
“No casualties thankfully, but there needs to be some structural support added so it doesn’t collapse any further during the night.” The girl which stood beside the queen informed them.
“My daughter, Yoonji.” The queen introduced, and it was only then that Jimin caught her scent, another alpha. “Please join us for supper, you must be starved after such a long journey.”
As they followed the queen and her daughter inside Jimin was amazed at the warmth the castle exuded. He’d expected it to be as cold and dark as the night outside, but as they stepped through the heavy wooden doors he was greeted with the soft orange glow of the candles burning in the chandeliers overhead and the fires burning in the grates, thick tapestries line the walls making the grand entrance hall strangely cosy and inviting. “I didn’t realise all three of their children were alphas.” Jimin heard his father mutter. “Good breeding stock.”
Jimin’s stomach turned at his father’s crude comment. The implications of what he was there for making him want to turn around and run back out of the door. He hated the thought of it. That he would be used to ‘breed’ that he might not even be thought of as anything more than that. He knew that’s what it had been like for previous generations. That omegas were only seen as child-givers. Things had changed a lot, at least in their kingdom, although there were still a lot of old fashioned alphas like his father, but it had still progressed somewhat. What if things weren’t like that here? What if they were still practicing the very old traditions?
His mother turned back to look at him, concern etched on her face and he knew his scent must have spiked something terrible. He tried to push those thoughts out of his mind, to calm himself down. The last thing he needed was his sour scent ruining their first meeting with the Min family.
The queen led them through to the dining room, it was large and again the walls were lined with vast tapestries. They were beautiful, and all he could think of was how much Taehyung would’ve loved them. He loved art and pretty things. Please let him be okay.
“Please make yourselves comfortable.” The queen said offering them seats at the long table that split the dining room down the centre.
The end closest the doorway was set for supper, plates of breads and fruits already set out waiting for them. Jimin and his parents settled onto the plush seats on one side, the queen and princess Yoonji settling on the other. Barely a minute passed before the servants were bringing out hot food. The smell had Jimin’s stomach grumbling again and he realised just how hungry he was.
He tucked into a rich stew, the meat soft and delicious. He heard his mother complementing the food and Jimin could only nod in agreement.
“Thank you, our cook certainly puts in the hard work.” The queen said with a gentle laugh.
“Make sure to try the duck, its her speciality.” Yoonji said, indicating the roasted duck sat before Jimin.
He did as she suggested, and almost moaned at the taste. It was the most delightful thing he’d ever had.
“Wow, that’s amazing.” Jimin said and Yoonji grinned at him.
She was pretty, the princess. Her features sharp and delicate at the same time. Her dark hair was shorter than he’d ever saw any girls wear it, just grazing her shoulders. Maybe it was the fashion here? It certainly wasn’t back home. Jimin liked it though. Yoonji had the clear air of an alpha about her, that easy confidence that came with it. Jimin imagined she had all the boys lining up to court her.
“I’ll be sure to pass on your compliments.” She assured.
Her easy smile had Jimin relaxing a little. Part of him wished she was the one he was marrying. At least she didn’t seem a brute like a lot of alphas. He couldn’t imagine what her brother was like. From what Taehyung had said he was more a typical alpha, the fact that he was a general in the army only made it more likely. He knew what military types were like, he’d had to deal with a few of them over the years when his father had hosted the navy celebrations before the war. Even when he’d barely presented they would leer over him, making him uncomfortable with their suggestive stares and overpowering scents. He wondered what his husband to be’s scent was like. Would it be overpowering and nauseating like some he’d experienced? Would he grow accustomed to it? Jimin didn’t have an overly sensitive nose, but he still didn’t like being around unpleasant scents. Hopefully the alpha’s wouldn’t be too bad, Jimin didn’t find the queen or Yoonji’s scents too overpowering. Maybe that was a good sign. There was an earthiness about Yoonji’s scent, like a woodland after rain. While it was clearly a heavier alpha scent, it was still easy on the nose. Her mother’s was laced with vanilla, a scent that could sometimes be sickly sweet, but on the queen it was pleasant. Jimin hoped his own scent would be pleasant towards his new husband. He’d been complimented on his scent plenty of times, but he wasn’t sure that wasn’t just knot-head alphas trying their luck.
Jimin could hear his parents talking to the queen, discussing the preparations for the wedding, but his mind couldn’t focus so he ate his food in silence. He didn’t want to think about the wedding and more so, what would follow. Thankfully their meal was wrapped up quickly and Jimin was shown to his sleeping quarters. The room was just as beautifully decorated as the dining room and hallways. A huge four poster bed sat in the centre of the room, thick velvet curtains draped over the dark wood. The contents of the room where quite simple, the bed, a dresser, a plush arm chair and a door which led to a small bathroom. He was tempted to take a dip in the bath that occupied the corner of the bathroom but he didn’t want to disturb the staff at such a late hour just to run him a bath, so instead he cleaned himself up quickly and changed for bed. As he was pulling the velvet curtains closed around the bed he heard the muffled sound of horses hooves against stone. The sound drove him to the window to see the arrival of three horses and their riders. The queen and her sons had returned. Jimin pushed open the window slightly, trying to get a glimpse of the alpha that he would marry, but they hurried inside too quickly. Jimin only managed a glimpse of the shorter of the two brothers as he handed the reins of the horses over to the stable hands. Jimin watched as he patted a jet black horse with affection before heading inside. He hadn’t been able to see much of him, the lanterns of the courtyard below not casting enough light to properly make out his face, but he did catch a hint of his scent. The night’s breeze lifting it up and into his open window. A soft scent of wood, pine maybe and something else, something richer. The thing that surprised Jimin the most was how nice it was, it reminded him of something he couldn’t quite place. Pulling the window closed he climbed into bed.
The sheets were soft and his body heavy with sleep, exhaustion from a week of travelling and uncomfortable roadside sleeping finally catching up with him. He sank into the sheets after closing the velvet curtains around him. He ignored the squirming in his stomach. It wasn’t anything, the scent was just unexpected, that was all. That paired with his anxiety for the next morning was why he was suddenly feeling unsettled and his stomach stirring. He pressed his nose into the pillow, letting the faint smell of soap fill his senses. Closing his eyes he tried to will himself to sleep, to forget about what was to come in the morning. To forget about the caring caress the prince had given his horse in contrast to his brother who had stalked away without a second glance. To forget about the pleasantness of his scent in the air. He needed to forget it all and hope that sleep would take him away, and maybe he wouldn't wake up in this castle so far away from home. That maybe he would wake up in his own too warm bedroom, Taehyung pounding on his door to wake him up. It would all be a dream and his life would just go back to normal. Jimin curled himself up into a ball, pulling the soft sheets tight around himself, cocooning him from the outside world and his fears of the future.